A review by leavesnpages
Dirt Town by Hayley Scrivenor

emotional hopeful mysterious sad tense slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

This novel was such a slow-burn mystery! The story is set in a rural Australian town, Durton, where life appears idyllic in a close-knit community. Until 12-year old, Esther, goes missing. Buried secrets are revealed and everyone comes under scrutiny.

Each chapter's point of view switches to a different character, and the timeline shifts, so you get the opportunity to see the story from several different perspectives - I really liked this aspect of the book. I liked the mix of POVs from both children and adults too.

Each character was well-written and complex, however Constance and her lack of self annoyed me a little bit, and Sarah's obsession with her ex that never went anywhere seemed redundant to me.

If you love a good, slow-burn mystery, then you will love this book.