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.
Another great work in Australian detective fiction is 'Scrublands' by Chris Hammer. It is set in a small Australian town and follows a journalist as he investigates a mass shooting. The story unfolds with many twists and turns, and it gives a vivid picture of the Australian outback while also presenting a compelling detective - style mystery.
Tim Winton's novels are also prominent. His 'Cloudstreet' is a beloved Australian classic. It weaves together the stories of two families living in the same house, exploring themes of family, love, and the Australian landscape, with vivid descriptions that really bring the Perth setting to life.
One of the well - known best Australian science fiction works is 'The Riders' by Tim Winton. It has elements that blend the ordinary with a touch of the otherworldly. Another is 'The Drowner' also by Tim Winton, which has a unique take on environmental and futuristic themes. And then there's 'Oryx and Crake' by Margaret Atwood, although she is Canadian - American but has strong connections to Australia in some of her works and it's a very thought - provoking piece of science fiction.
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 great work is 'Mystery Road' which has been both a book and a successful film adaptation. It delves into the Aboriginal detective Jay Swan's investigations, bringing in elements of Australian outback culture and the unique challenges faced there in crime - solving.
One characteristic is the use of the Australian landscape as a backdrop. The vast outback, coastal areas, or small towns often play a crucial role in the stories, influencing the mood and the nature of the crimes.
Peter Temple is a top - notch author in Australian detective fiction. His books are full of suspense and complex characters.
One of the best is 'The Devotion of Suspect X' by Keigo Higashino. It has a brilliant plot with unexpected twists.
Well, 'The Guest List' is among the top new detective fictions. It's set at a wedding on a remote island, and there are lots of secrets among the guests. The atmosphere is really tense as the detective - like figure among the guests starts to unravel the mystery. Also, 'Gone Girl' can be considered in this category. It's a psychological thriller with a detective - type investigation into the disappearance of a woman, full of twists and turns.
One of the best is 'The Call of Cthulhu' by H.P. Lovecraft. His detective - like characters often uncover dark and otherworldly mysteries. Another great one is 'John Constantine' comics. Constantine is a sort of occult detective who battles demons and deals with the supernatural underworld. And 'The Dresden Files' novels also fall into this category. Harry Dresden is a wizard detective in modern - day Chicago, solving cases that involve magic and the occult.
One of the best modern detective fiction is 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo' by Stieg Larsson. It has a complex mystery and a very interesting female lead, Lisbeth Salander. The story is set in Sweden and involves a lot of dark family secrets and financial intrigue.