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mariasmusings 's review for:
Opal Country
by Chris Hammer
The publication of a new book by Chris Hammer is always a case for celebration and 'Opal Country' is no different.
Hammer's previous three novels have centered around the adventures of the journalist Martin Scarsden and this time around, while Scarsden is mentioned, our protagonist is one DS Ivan Lucic, a former secondary character. Lucic is well deserved of a greater role and Hammer's novels and I was delighted to see him front and center in 'Opal Country'. For fans of Chris Hammer's work, DI Morris Montifore also makes a frequent appearance but this is very much a standalone novel and there is no requirement to have any background knowledge.
And on to the story set in Finnegan's Gap a small town, set on the New South Wales/Queensland border (as far as I understand). A local miner has been found crucified and his death has been phoned into the police and Lucic has been dutifully dispatched to work with the local officers to resolve the case. Add in past resentments, secrets, business interests and you have a complicated mix which Hammer deftly weaves into a fascinating case that leaves the reader curious for more.
As always with a Chris Hammer novel, one of the best parts is in the actual descriptions - his writing is both bare and also striking - I can imagine the bare, harsh landscape of the mining town, and feel the burning sun on my skin as I read through the pages. Not many authors can conjure up this level of vivid imagery that jumps off the page.
I for one hope that Lucic returns for another investigation - and shortly!
Hammer's previous three novels have centered around the adventures of the journalist Martin Scarsden and this time around, while Scarsden is mentioned, our protagonist is one DS Ivan Lucic, a former secondary character. Lucic is well deserved of a greater role and Hammer's novels and I was delighted to see him front and center in 'Opal Country'. For fans of Chris Hammer's work, DI Morris Montifore also makes a frequent appearance but this is very much a standalone novel and there is no requirement to have any background knowledge.
And on to the story set in Finnegan's Gap a small town, set on the New South Wales/Queensland border (as far as I understand). A local miner has been found crucified and his death has been phoned into the police and Lucic has been dutifully dispatched to work with the local officers to resolve the case. Add in past resentments, secrets, business interests and you have a complicated mix which Hammer deftly weaves into a fascinating case that leaves the reader curious for more.
As always with a Chris Hammer novel, one of the best parts is in the actual descriptions - his writing is both bare and also striking - I can imagine the bare, harsh landscape of the mining town, and feel the burning sun on my skin as I read through the pages. Not many authors can conjure up this level of vivid imagery that jumps off the page.
I for one hope that Lucic returns for another investigation - and shortly!