Scrublands by Chris Hammer
Riversend is a town on the edge of collapse, besieged by both drought and tragedy. As Scarsden begins talking to people for his story, what he finds surprises him. The priest, who was accused of being a pedophile before the deadly events, is remembered fondly by some. The accusations not universally believed. Martin digs into the story and even as what he finds confuses him, another tragedy hits the town. Martin is on the scene and scoops everyone, but he may have his facts wrong. Now he is not only covering the story, but he is also part of it. The media descends and the nation’s eyes are focused on Riversend once again, and the truth may be more sensational than anyone could have imagined.
Chris Hammer puts together a crackling story filled with fascinating and tragic characters. His evocative description of the drought and the scorching heat paint such a vivid picture it actually makes you thirsty. The characters and the town itself are so beautifully rendered that you can imagine it as well as your own hometown. Martin Scarsden has troubles from his past that he is working through even as he tries to unravel the truth of what happened in Riversend. He is at odds with himself as he tries to retain journalistic distance while being sucked into events and the lives of the people in the town. He serves as a proxy for the reader who is skillfully drawn into the story, each new bit of information changing what you thought you knew. The dry, dusty, tinderbox of a landscape is a perfect metaphor for the town’s tragedy. One spark away from igniting their pain all over again.
Hammer’s background as a journalist has honed his writing skills to a fine degree, making this fiction debut a must-read. It is a satisfying mystery, filled with drama and tragedy, forging an emotional connection you won’t soon forget. I am once more impressed by the wave of Australian authors who are writing some of the most interesting thrillers around. Do yourself a favor and pick up Scrublands. It may end up being one of the best things you’ll read all year.
I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher.
Chris Hammer puts together a crackling story filled with fascinating and tragic characters. His evocative description of the drought and the scorching heat paint such a vivid picture it actually makes you thirsty. The characters and the town itself are so beautifully rendered that you can imagine it as well as your own hometown. Martin Scarsden has troubles from his past that he is working through even as he tries to unravel the truth of what happened in Riversend. He is at odds with himself as he tries to retain journalistic distance while being sucked into events and the lives of the people in the town. He serves as a proxy for the reader who is skillfully drawn into the story, each new bit of information changing what you thought you knew. The dry, dusty, tinderbox of a landscape is a perfect metaphor for the town’s tragedy. One spark away from igniting their pain all over again.
Hammer’s background as a journalist has honed his writing skills to a fine degree, making this fiction debut a must-read. It is a satisfying mystery, filled with drama and tragedy, forging an emotional connection you won’t soon forget. I am once more impressed by the wave of Australian authors who are writing some of the most interesting thrillers around. Do yourself a favor and pick up Scrublands. It may end up being one of the best things you’ll read all year.
I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher.
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