The Best Australian Crime Fiction
There’s something magical about reading a book set in our own backyard. Australia’s diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and unique communities make it the perfect backdrop for unforgettable stories.
But some of these books may make you think twice about this sunburnt country. From Tasmania’s misty highlands to Darwin’s tangled mangroves, these stories reveal the darker side of Australia through some gripping and sometimes skin crawling Australian crime fiction.
AUSTRALIAN CRIME FICTION - STATE BY STATE
Tasmania:
Dusk by Robbie Arnott
In Dusk, Robbie Arnott transports readers to Tasmania’s rugged highlands with a story about a puma named Dusk terrorising graziers. As twins Iris and Floyd hunt down this elusive creature, Arnott uses poetic prose to capture the haunting beauty of Tasmania. His descriptions of the Tasmanian landscape are as chilling as the pursuit itself, creating an atmosphere that’s both wild and enchanting.
South Australia:
Dora Black by Lainie Anderson
Set in 1917 Adelaide, Dora Black follows Miss Kate Cocks, a determined policewoman who defies orders to investigate a suspicious death. The bustling city of Adelaide and its historical quirks are woven throughout the story, adding to its depth and appeal. The crime and mystery genre suits Adelaide’s atmospheric streets, giving the story an authentic feel that reflects the region’s real history.
Victoria:
Murder in Williamstown by Kerry Greenwood
Phryne Fisher is back, and Melbourne’s 1920s glamour is in full swing. Murder in Williamstown blends the elegance of the era with the excitement of a classic whodunit. Greenwood brings Melbourne to life with her detailed portrayal of the city’s bustling cafes, hidden laneways, and stylish flair. This thrilling mystery shines a light on Melbourne’s cultural scene, capturing its vibrancy alongside its secrets.
Queensland:
Lola in the Mirror by Trent Dalton
In Lola in the Mirror, Dalton dives into the gritty reality of homelessness in Brisbane just before the Olympics. While not a traditional crime novel, the story’s exploration of life on the streets, survival, and the lawless spaces hidden within the city’s shadows adds a different kind of tension. Dalton’s insight into Brisbane’s landscape and its people makes for a powerful, timely read that explores the city’s unseen side.
Western Australia:
Red River Road by Anna Downes
Set against Western Australia’s Coral Coast, Red River Road follows Katy’s search for her missing sister. Downes captures the isolation and danger of the outback, highlighting issues around female safety and empowerment. The psychological tension is mirrored by the stark beauty of Western Australia, making this novel a gripping read that leaves readers with a sense of awe for the land and respect for its dangers.
New South Wales:
Shadow City by Natalie Conyer
Shadow City takes readers to Sydney’s Chinatown, where Detective Jackie Rose uncovers a world of human trafficking and corruption. Conyer’s portrayal of Sydney’s gritty underbelly gives this crime novel an added edge. By exploring real-world issues, Shadow City gives readers a suspenseful story while spotlighting a hidden side of one of Australia’s busiest cities.
Northern Territory:
Still by Matt Nable
Set in Darwin during the sweltering summer of 1963, Still brings a slower, intense crime story to life. The discovery of a body in the marshlands kicks off a tale filled with outback cowboys and gritty detectives. Nable’s Darwin is a place of half-dead pubs and tangled mangroves, painting a picture of a city untouched by the “Swinging Sixties.” His detailed portrayal of the Northern Territory captures the region’s unique character and builds an atmosphere perfect for a brooding mystery.
