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The Dry

352 pages, 2018

fiction

fiction

1382 books
Takeaways
Description

 This atmospheric, page-turning debut mystery by award-winning author Jane Harper will keep you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end. In the grip of the worst drought in a century, the farming community of Kiewarra is facing life and death choices daily when three members of a local family are found brutally slain. Federal Police investigator Aaron Falk reluctantly returns to his hometown for the funeral of his childhood friend, loath to face the townsfolk who turned their backs on him twenty years earlier. But as questions mount, Falk is forced to probe deeper into the deaths of the Hadler family.

The Power of the Past

In The Dry, Jane Harper shows us how the past can have a powerful hold over the present. The protagonist, Aaron Falk, is forced to confront his own past when he returns to his hometown. This theme encourages us to reflect on our own past and how it shapes our present.

The Importance of Community

The Dry takes us to a small, tight-knit community in rural Australia. Harper paints a vivid picture of how such communities function, and the role each individual plays. It's a reminder of the importance of community in our lives, and how our actions can impact those around us.

The Impact of Environment

The harsh, drought-stricken landscape is almost a character in itself in The Dry. It's a stark reminder of how our environment can impact our lives, our communities, and our actions. It's worth taking a look at how our own environment shapes us.

The Complexity of Human Relationships

Harper explores the complexity of human relationships in The Dry. From old friendships to family ties, she shows us how these relationships can be both a source of strength and a cause of conflict. It's a chance to reflect on our own relationships and how they influence our lives.

The Thrill of a Mystery

The Dry is a gripping mystery that keeps you guessing till the end. Harper masterfully builds suspense and keeps the reader engaged. If you're a fan of mysteries, you'll definitely want to check out The Dry.

Quotes 5

You will feel the heat, taste the dust and blink into the glare. The Dry is a wonderful crime novel that shines a light into the darkest corners of a sunburnt country.

Stephen KingStephen King - Horror Fiction Author

One of the most stunning debuts I've ever read. Every word is near perfect. Read it!

David BaldacciDavid Baldacci - Thriller Novelist

A breathless page-turner, driven by the many revelations Ms. Harper dreams up. You'll love [this book]

Michael ConnellyMichael Connelly - Crime Writer

Nothing short of a sensation. Harper makes her parched locations seem downright malevolent, pitting her characters against their surroundings as much as each other.

Lee ChildLee Child - Thriller Author

A riveting, atmospheric picture of a rural community in crisis and a protagonist to rival Jack Reacher.

Val McDermidVal McDermid - Crime Writer
Stephen KingDavid BaldacciMichael ConnellyLee ChildVal McDermid

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