Dice

WINNER OF THE NGAIO MARSH AWARD FOR BEST FIRST CRIME NOVEL

SHORTLISTED FOR THE NED KELLY AWARD FOR BEST INTERNATIONAL CRIME FICTION

‘Dice has a forensic depth that is compelling, that challenges and deeply moves the reader. But what sets this novel apart is the precision and power of the writing. This is fiction that doesn’t want to be journalism, it affirms the truth and nuance and possibility of imagination.’ Christos Tsiolkas, author of The Slap

Four teenage boys invent a sex game based on the toss of a dice, resulting in them being charged with multiple sexual offences against three girls. But what actually happened?

Dice is a stunning courtroom drama told from the perspective of a diverse group of ordinary people – the jury. How will twelve women and men of different ages, backgrounds and beliefs decide whether consent was given or crimes were committed?

In this dazzlingly accomplished and gripping debut novel, the story is told through the eyes of each juror as the trial unfolds and evidence is presented, withheld, fragmented and retold by different witnesses.

Where does the truth lie? How does the jury find?

‘Dice achieves what the best fiction achieves: it draws us into the story on a deeply personal level, coaxing us to consider what we would do in the same situation … the moving and powerful final moment delivers a sense of narrative completion while also reminding us of the flawed nature of the justice system.’ Catherine Chidgey, award-winning author of The Axeman’s Carnival and Pet

‘Completely engrossing and fiercely eloquent . . . I don’t think there’s ever been fiction which takes us so close to the jury experience.’
Damien Wilkins, author of Delirious and Max Gate

Format: Paperback
Pages: 384
Imprint: Allen & Unwin
Publication date: 19/11/2024