‘A work of rattling and serpentine suspense … gripping and sinuous and so, so good.’ Trent Dalton
‘The Drowning has all the hallmarks of great Aussie crime writing … Brown’s punchy prose makes this novel absolutely devourable, and all will be revealed in due time. The Drowning is highly recommended holiday reading.’ Better Reading
The body of a local teenage boy is found on the beach of a sleepy northern New South Wales town. David went for an evening swim and got into trouble . . . at least, that’s what it looks like.
Three weeks before, Leila, a young backpacker, didn’t turn up for her shift at the local cafe. Benny, the owner, isn’t worried. It happens – backpackers are always on the move. There’ll be another one.
One of the locals, Adrian, has been a help to Benny. He’s found him a nice little sideline. Not exactly legal. Is that all Adrian is arranging on the coast? He once was a cop but has he gone bad?
And in the backblocks outside town, a bikie gang is gearing up for a large consignment from South America.
Murder, drugs, liaisons and lies are stirring up this small coastal town.
With Bryan Brown’s characteristic laconic storytelling – humorous, tough and suspenseful – the secrets of this seemingly idyllic town slowly come to the surface.
Praise for The Drowning:
‘Actor Bryan Brown’s impressive debut novel weaves an intriguing tapestry of sub-plots to create a roller-coaster and chilling Aussie thriller.’ Australian Women’s Weekly
‘Dark and dirty but compulsive all at once.’ The Daily Telegraph
‘Unique, disruptive and yet recognisably Australian, The Drowning is a page-turning, multi-layered Australian crime thriller that will intrigue and satisfy fans of Chris Hammer, Dave Warner and Jock Serong.’ Books + Publishing
‘A thriller with cinematic sensibilities … come for the name; stay for the writing.’ Good Reading
‘Absolutely mesmerising … a cracking story.’ The Weekend Australian
‘Gripping, realistic, and made for compulsive reading.’ Theresa Smith Writes
Format: Paperback
Pages: 304
Imprint: Allen & Unwin
Publication date: 01/10/2025
