Dirt Town
Dirt Town by Hayley Scrivenor, published by Pan Macmillan on March 30, 2023, is a 368-page atmospheric crime novel set in rural Australia. The story begins with the disappearance of twelve-year-old Esther Bianchi on her way home from school in the small town of Durton. As the community grapples with grief and suspicion, Detective Sergeant Sarah Michaels embarks on an investigation that delves into the secrets of those connected to Esther.
Readers will encounter a complex narrative that intertwines the perspectives of Esther’s mother, Constance, and her best friend, Ronnie, as they navigate the unfolding mystery. The investigation reveals layers of tension and hidden truths within the community, highlighting themes of loss and the impact of silence. This edition of Dirt Town offers a deep dive into the psychological and suspenseful elements of crime fiction, making it a notable addition to the genre.
Official synopsis Publisher
*Winner of the Crime Writers’ Association New Blood Dagger Award 2023*
Twelve year-old Esther Bianchi disappears on her way home from school in the small town of Durton – and the truth will not come easily. Dirt Town by Hayley Scrivenor is an atmospheric crime novel set in rural Australia.
‘A heart-wrenching mystery’ – Jane Harper, author of The Dry
‘A stunning debut’ – Ann Cleeves
THE DETECTIVE
As the community is thrown into a state of grief and suspicion, Detective Sergeant Sarah Michaels begins her investigation into the disappearance of Esther Bianchi. She questions those who knew the girl, attempting to unpick the secrets which bind them together.
THE MOTHER
The girl’s mother, Constance, believes that her daughter going missing is the worst thing that can happen to her. But as the search for Esther develops, she learns that things can always get worse.
THE FRIENDS
Ronnie is Esther’s best friend and is determined to bring her home. So when her classmate Lewis tells her that he saw Esther with a strange man at the creek the afternoon she went missing, Ronnie feels she is one step closer to finding her. But why is Lewis refusing to speak to the police?
And who else is keeping quiet about what happened to Esther?
Dirt Town by Hayley Scrivenor is perfect for fans of Jane Harper’s The Dry and Chris Whitaker’s We Begin at the End.
‘I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough’ – Chris Whitaker, author of We Begin at the End
‘A powerful story, shot through with moments of horror and tenderness’ – The Times
‘Dirt Town deserves its praise’ – Guardian
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