Peter Corris' 'Cliff Hardy' series is also great. These novels feature the hard - boiled detective Cliff Hardy as he navigates the seedy underbelly of Sydney. The books are known for their realistic portrayal of Australian urban life and the detective's tenacious investigations.
Another excellent Australian detective novel is 'Mystery Road' by Aaron Pedersen. It combines elements of Aboriginal culture with a thrilling detective plot. The story unfolds in the Australian outback, adding a unique and atmospheric backdrop to the mystery.
I really like 'Truth' by Peter Temple as well. His works often deal with complex moral and social issues within the framework of detective stories. The way he portrays the Australian setting adds a unique flavor to the detective fiction genre. His characters are multi - dimensional, and the mysteries are engaging, making his books some of the best in Australian detective fiction.
One popular Australian detective novel is 'The Dry' by Jane Harper. It's set in a drought - stricken town and follows the investigation of a murder. Another is 'Truth' by Peter Temple. His novels often feature complex characters and gritty settings. And then there's 'Scrublands' by Chris Hammer, which is known for its atmospheric portrayal of rural Australia.
Well, 'Voss' by Patrick White is considered among the best. It's a complex exploration of the Australian landscape and the human psyche. The story of Johann Ulrich Voss, an explorer, is intertwined with themes of love, ambition, and the vastness of the Australian continent. Then there's 'My Brilliant Career' by Miles Franklin. This semi - autobiographical novel gives insights into the life of a young woman in rural Australia, her dreams and struggles. Also, 'The Harp in the South' by Ruth Park is a great Australian novel that shows the working - class life in Sydney's slums.
For beginners, 'The Dry' by Jane Harper is a great choice. It has a straightforward yet engaging plot. Set in a small Australian town during a drought, it follows a detective as he investigates a series of murders. The writing is accessible and the setting is vividly described.
Well, 'Picnic at Hanging Rock' by Joan Lindsay is a must - mention. It has an air of mystery around it, set against the backdrop of the Australian outback. The story is both strange and captivating. Also, 'Cloudstreet' by Tim Winton. It beautifully portrays the lives of two families in the outback. Their joys, sorrows, and how they interact with the unique environment around them.
Another one could be 'Quicksand' by Steve Toltz. This novel is known for its complex characters and darkly humorous take on family, fate, and the Australian landscape.
Well, 'Picnic at Hanging Rock' by Joan Lindsay is considered among the best. It has an air of mystery and the Australian landscape plays a huge role in creating an eerie atmosphere. Then there's 'True History of the Kelly Gang' by Peter Carey. It gives a unique perspective on the infamous Ned Kelly, delving deep into his character and the Australian bushland setting.
Peter Temple is a top - notch author in Australian detective fiction. His books are full of suspense and complex characters.
Among the 10 best Australian novels, 'True History of the Kelly Gang' by Peter Carey stands out. It offers a different perspective on the famous Australian outlaw Ned Kelly. 'The Slap' by Christos Tsiolkas is also notable as it delves into contemporary Australian society and family values. Also, 'The Book Thief' (while Markus Zusak is of Austrian - German origin, the story is set in Australia during the war) is a powerful novel that shows the impact of war on people and their love for books.
Typically, they often have strong female protagonists. For example, Phryne Fisher in Kerry Greenwood's novels is a very self - assured and capable detective. They also make great use of the Australian landscape, whether it's the outback or small coastal towns, as an important part of the story's backdrop and often influence the mystery.