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 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 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.
One of the best Australian fiction books in 2018 could be 'The Life to Come' by Michelle de Kretser. It delved into complex relationships and the immigrant experience in Australia in a really engaging way.
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.
The best Australian crime fiction often features complex relationships. This could be between the characters themselves, or between the characters and the Australian environment. The environment can be both a hindrance and a help in solving the crimes. For instance, in 'Mystery Road', the Aboriginal connection to the land is an important part of the story. Also, these stories are not afraid to show the darker side of Australian life, from small - town secrets to big - city crime. And they usually have a well - crafted mystery that keeps the readers guessing until the very end.
Many of the best Australian fiction books also explore the relationship between the settlers and the native Australians in different ways. Some may be more subtle, while others are more direct in depicting the cultural clashes and the attempts at understanding and co - existence.
Often, they have a strong sense of place. For example, the Australian landscape, be it the outback or the coastal areas, plays a big role in the stories. The characters are also usually complex and diverse, representing different aspects of Australian society.
Some new Australian crime fiction that stands out is that which focuses on the seedy underbelly of big cities like Sydney or Melbourne. Authors are exploring the criminal networks that operate in these urban landscapes.