SCRUBLANDS - Chris Hammer

The story is set in a small, drought-stricken Australian town and follows the protagonist, journalist Martin Scarsden, who arrives to cover a seemingly straightforward story about a mass shooting that occurred in the town.

The plot unfolds as Scarsden investigates the shooting, which was committed by a local pastor, and discovers that the case is more complex and deeply rooted in the town's dark secrets. The novel explores themes of corruption, trauma, and the impact of past events on the present. As Scarsden digs deeper, he encounters a web of deception and violence, challenging his initial assumptions and leading to unexpected twists.

"Scrublands" combines elements of suspense and psychological insight, with a strong sense of place and atmosphere contributing to the overall tension of the narrative.