Breathtakingly Australian.
Feature image credit: Ultimo Press
Christine Gregory’s The Community is a riveting thriller set against the backdrop of Steels Creek, an idyllic retreat in the Sunshine Coast hinterland. It follows Lars Nilsson, a former investigative journalist who has sought peace and anonymity after a public scandal that derailed his career. But life in the seemingly tranquil community quickly unravels when a body is discovered in a nearby waterhole, and shortly after, his best friend’s daughter goes missing. As Lars is drawn back into the world of crime investigation, the story becomes an exploration of fatherhood, redemption, and the complexity of human relationships within close-knit communities.
From the outset, Gregory establishes a vivid sense of place. The writing is fast-paced and challenging to put down. Suspense blends skilfully with emotional depth as the plot moves quickly from one shocking revelation to another. Relentless, yet not overwhelming, the narrative captures the beauty and tranquillity of Steels Creek. In this place, people know each other well and live with the false security of unlocked doors. This picturesque setting becomes essential to the novel’s tension as the community’s superficial serenity is shattered by dark secrets that simmer beneath the surface. The contrast between the sunny, serene atmosphere and the grisly unfolding events provides an eerie, unsettling feeling throughout the book.
The protagonist Lars Nilsson is a complex and sympathetic character. Having once been a celebrated crime reporter, he is now burdened by guilt and personal failure, trying to rebuild a life in Steels Creek. His motivations are compelling: Not only is he haunted by his past mistakes, but the disappearance of his best friend’s daughter forces him to confront his investigative instincts again, putting him at odds with the local police. As he delves deeper into the mystery, Lars faces moral dilemmas and the possibility that uncovering the truth could destroy the community and the fragile new life he has worked so hard to create.
The Community has pauses in the action where Lars reflects on his past, allowing readers to catch their breath while building anticipation for what’s to come. The balance between introspective moments and high-stakes investigation gives both substance and excitement.
One of the novel’s strengths lies in its depiction of the small-town dynamics in Steels Creek. Gregory deftly illustrates how tightly woven communities can be both a source of support and a breeding ground for secrecy. The way neighbours interact, form alliances, and turn a blind eye to certain behaviours becomes central to understanding the dark undercurrents of the plot. The tension between loyalty to the community and the need for justice creates a compelling conflict for Lars, who must decide how far he will go to uncover the truth. The Community also explores more prominent themes, particularly fatherhood and redemption. Lars’ relationship with his daughter, who is primarily estranged, mirrors his internal struggles. As he investigates the disappearance of his best friend’s daughter, he is reminded of his failures as a father, adding emotional weight to his search for answers.
In conclusion, The Community is a gripping and addictive read that will keep readers hooked from beginning to end. Christine Gregory has crafted a multi-layered thriller with a solid emotional core, blending crime, personal redemption, and the hidden dangers of small-town life. With its richly drawn characters and atmospheric setting, this novel is a must-read for fans of suspense and psychological drama. Gregory’s ability to weave together a fast-paced plot with thought-provoking themes makes The Community a standout in contemporary Australian crime fiction.
Reviewed by Leanne Caune
The views expressed in this review belong to the author and not Glam Adelaide, its affiliates, or employees.
Distributed by: Ultimo Press
Released: July 2024
RRP: $34.99
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