Opal Country by Chris Hammer is a gripping crime novel set in the desolate outback town of Finnigans Gap in Australia. The story follows Homicide detective Ivan Lucic and local DC Nell Buchanan as they investigate the murder of a miner found nailed to a timber frame in his own claim. As they delve into the case, they uncover a web of corruption, financial shenanigans, and possible scams within the mining community. The narrative is as oppressive as the barren landscape, with a mesmerizing sense of place that immerses the reader in the blistering heat and dryness of the Australian outback.
The book features intricate plotting, compelling characterizations, and a riveting mystery at its core. The author, Chris Hammer, weaves together multiple threads expertly, creating a complex yet satisfying tale that keeps the reader engaged until the final paragraph. The characters of Ivan Lucic and Nell Buchanan are well-developed, forming a dynamic partnership as they navigate dead ends, corruption, and internal investigations while trying to solve the murder case. Hammer's writing style is described as pacy but measured, with a keen eye for detail and a talent for creating a vivid and atmospheric setting.
From The Publisher:
**THE TIMES CRIME BOOK OF THE MONTH**
In the outback, nothing stays buried forever...
'Classic Hammer. A crime novel that will stay with me for a long time.' Ann Cleeves
'This novel is Hammer's best work yet.' The Times
'A complex, twisty thriller, with nuanced characters and a winding plot all set in the oppressive Australian heat.' Lisa Hall
'This slice of Australian noir sparkles like an opal in the blistering sun.' Lisa Gray
'Opal Country is a top-notch Aussie Noir with real heat coming off the pages.' Christopher Fowler
Opals...
In the desolate outback town of Finnigans Gap, police struggle to maintain law and order. Thieves pillage opal mines, religious fanatics recruit vulnerable youngsters and billionaires do as they please.
Bodies...
Then an opal miner is found crucified and left to rot down his mine. Nothing about the miner's death is straight-forward, not even who found the body. Homicide detective Ivan Lucic is sent to investigate, assisted by inexperienced young investigator Nell Buchanan.
But Finnigans Gap has already ended one police career and damaged others, and soon both officers face damning allegations and internal investigations. Have Ivan and Nell been set up, and if so, by whom?
Secrets...
As time runs out, their only chance at redemption is to find the killer. But the more they uncover, the more harrowing the mystery becomes, and a past long forgotten is thrown into scorching sunlight.
Because in Finnigans Gap, nothing stays buried for ever.
Praise for Chris Hammer:
'Hammer is a great writer - a leader in Australian noir' Michael Connelly
'Shimmers . . . A tortured tale of blood and loss' Val McDermid
'Stunning - a page-turner which stays long in the memory' Sunday Times
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