If you’re a fan of atmospheric crime thrillers set against the rugged backdrop of Australia, Chris Hammer is an author you don’t want to miss. Best known for his gripping storytelling, layered characters, and evocative settings, Hammer has quickly become a favorite among readers of crime fiction worldwide.
Whether you’re new to his work or looking to dive back into his novels in the correct sequence, this guide will help you explore Chris Hammer’s books in order, along with brief summaries and reading tips.
📚 Chris Hammer Books in Order of Publication
Chris Hammer’s novels primarily fall into two series: the Martin Scarsden series and the more recent Ivan Lucic & Nell Buchanan series, along with a standalone non-fiction title.
🔹 Martin Scarsden Series (Crime Reporter Series)
This is the series that introduced readers to Hammer’s distinctive brand of outback noir, with journalist Martin Scarsden at its center.
- Scrublands (2018)
Set in a drought-stricken Australian town, journalist Martin Scarsden investigates a shocking mass murder committed by a local priest. What he uncovers is far more twisted than he imagined.
⭐ Winner of the UK Crime Writers’ Association John Creasey New Blood Dagger. - Silver (2019)
Martin returns to his coastal hometown only to find his best friend murdered—and his partner as the prime suspect. A deep dive into old secrets and betrayals. - Trust (2020)
A mysterious murder in Sydney’s dark underbelly draws Martin into a dangerous conspiracy involving money, politics, and power.
🔹 Ivan Lucic & Nell Buchanan Series (Detective Series)
This series shifts focus to homicide detective Ivan Lucic and police investigator Nell Buchanan, exploring crimes that bridge the past and present.
- Treasure and Dirt (2021) (also published as Opal Country in some regions)
A body is found crucified in a remote mining town. Detectives Lucic and Buchanan must unravel a web of corruption and greed. - The Tilt (2022)
An intricate case involving three timelines—a cold case, a recent murder, and an old war crime—set in a borderland forest full of secrets. - The Seven (2023)
When a millionaire is found dead, Lucic and Buchanan uncover dark secrets hidden within an elite group of Australia’s most powerful families.
📝 Standalone Work
- The River: A Journey Through the Murray-Darling Basin (2010)
A powerful non-fiction exploration of Australia’s most vital river system. It showcases Hammer’s journalistic roots and environmental insight.
🧭 Recommended Reading Order
While each novel can be read on its own, for the best character development and context, it’s ideal to read the books in order of publication. Start with the Martin Scarsden trilogy, then move into the Ivan Lucic & Nell Buchanan series.
🔍 Why Read Chris Hammer?
- Atmospheric settings: From parched rural towns to urban underworlds, Hammer paints Australia in both its harshness and beauty.
- Complex characters: His protagonists are flawed but deeply compelling.
- Layered mysteries: Intricate plots woven with social issues, past traumas, and deep moral questions.
If you’re a fan of authors like Jane Harper, Michael Robotham, or Peter Temple, Chris Hammer will feel right at home on your bookshelf.
📦 Where to Start?
Begin with Scrublands—it’s the novel that launched his literary career and a brilliant introduction to Hammer’s signature style.
✅ Final Thoughts
Chris Hammer has firmly established himself as a master of Australian crime fiction. His novels are not just thrilling mysteries—they’re rich explorations of the people, politics, and landscapes of Australia.
Use this guide to read Chris Hammer books in order and enjoy a riveting journey into the dark heart of the Australian outback and beyond.
