90 pages • 3 hours read
The Dry
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Book Brief
336
Novel • Fiction
Kiewarra, Australia • Contemporary
2016
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In The Dry by Jane Harper, federal agent Aaron Falk returns to his drought-stricken hometown of Kiewarra for his friend Luke Hadler's funeral, only to be drawn into an unofficial investigation with local police into the apparent murder-suicide of Luke's family. As they uncover secrets and tensions within the community, Falk faces memories of his own troubled past and a long-buried mystery. Themes of violence, suicide, and abuse are present.
Mysterious
Dark
Suspenseful
Gritty
Reviews & Readership
322,585 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Jane Harper's The Dry is widely praised for its gripping narrative, atmospheric setting, and well-developed characters. Reviewers commend Harper's skillful unveiling of secrets in a drought-stricken Australian town. Some critics, however, note a predictable conclusion and pacing issues in the middle sections. Still, it remains a compelling debut mystery.
Who Should Read The Dry?
A reader who enjoys The Dry by Jane Harper likely appreciates taut, atmospheric thrillers set in isolated communities. Fans of Gillian Flynn’s Gone Girl or Tana French's In the Woods may find similar satisfaction in Harper’s intricate plotting, vivid sense of place, and exploration of complex, small-town dynamics.
322,585 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Luke Hadler
Luke Hadler
A Kiewarra farmer married to Karen and father to Billy and Charlotte, Luke's death and the deaths of his family members bring Falk back to town, where Luke's mixed reputation complicates perceptions.
Scott Whitlam
Scott Whitlam
The principal of Kiewarra Primary School who moved from Melbourne, Whitlam hides a gambling issue and exhibits a calm exterior while harboring deeper personal struggles.
Grant Dow
Grant Dow
Nephew to Deacon and cousin to Ellie, Grant is imposing and confrontational, often clashing with Falk over past events.
Malcolm “Mal” Deacon
Malcolm “Mal” Deacon
Ellie's father and a local farmer, Deacon is remembered as a town bully who holds old grievances against Falk.
Gretchen Schoner
Gretchen Schoner
A lifelong resident of Kiewarra and farmer, Gretchen was part of a close-knit childhood friend group with Falk, who reconnects with her upon returning.
Sergeant Greg Raco
Sergeant Greg Raco
The new chief of police in Kiewarra, Raco leads the investigation into the Hadler deaths, working diligently to understand the town's dynamics.
Karen Hadler
Karen Hadler
The organized and diligent wife of Luke Hadler, Karen's life was centered around her family and their farm duties before her untimely death.
Ellie Deacon
Ellie Deacon
A quiet, introspective member of Falk's childhood friend group, Ellie's past and tragic death remain a pivotal part of Falk's return to Kiewarra.
Jamie Sullivan
Jamie Sullivan
A young farmer living with his grandmother, Jamie's interactions with Luke are scrutinized as the investigation unfolds.
336
Novel • Fiction
Kiewarra, Australia • Contemporary
2016
Adult
18+ years
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