Stillwater by Tanya Scott

This gripping Australian crime thriller explores how one resolves what a person was with what the person wants to be. Luke Harris is a young man trying desperately wants to build a normal and respectable life after his escaping his violent criminal past. In order to do that, his former identity as Jack Quinn has to stay buried. When his mentor from his past resurfaces, Luke has to confront the choices and secrets of his past.

Luke is not a conventional hero. His complicated history makes him vulnerable and dangerous. His mother died of an overdose and was raised under the influence of Gus Alberici, a ruthless crime boss. Gus saw Luke's potential and turned him into an enforcer. Years later, Luke is still running from his past; he changed his name, enrolled in university, found gainful employment and is developing a relationship with Emma. But his past threatens his future.

Luke's life is presented in a series of flashbacks that reveal Luke’s childhood and his relationship with Gus. The present-day storyline follows his attempt to create a more conventional life. We are exposed to childhood trauma, poverty, dysfunctional families, violence that preceded the redemption he craves.

Much of the story takes place in Melbourne, both the chamber of commerce vision we all have for Melbourne and its dark criminal underworld. The novel is especially effective at connecting the yin/yang of Luke's past and desired life. Danger come only from criminals that threaten Luke's desired to get past those troubled years. The story and characters are developed as a slow burn about crime, suspense, and family issues that interfere with Luke's attempt at a 2nd chance. Readers who enjoy gritt, Overall, Stillwater is an impressive debut. Tanya Scott combines crime, suspense, family drama, and psychological depth to create a story about second chances and the difficulty of escaping who you once were.

Australia? Crime? past vs present? What's not to love? 

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