Things are bad: The Dry

by Jane Harper

Jane Harper has now written four novels. This is the one that set her on her successful path.

The Dry is an atmospheric story with characters that readers will get to know well. The story centers on deaths in both the present and past, moving between the two.

Protagonist Aaron Falk left his small town many years ago for reasons that readers will learn. He returns for the funeral of his best friend whose death occurred under troubling circumstances. In addition to Luke’s death, his wife and son have been murdered, only leaving behind a baby. Is this tragedy related to something that happened when Aaron and Luke were teens? What happened to one of their tight knit group in those days?

In addition to creating memorable characters, Ms. Harper creates a very real place. It is one where drought reigns and life is difficult. So, there are difficult times for people and the land.

I highly recommend Ms. Harper’s novels. Readers of mystery/suspense titles should give this one a look.

Note that this book has recently been made into a movie.

Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions are my own.