Bryan Brown's distinctive storytelling voice continues in this unflinching, gripping novel.

'A work of rattling and serpentine suspense … gripping and sinuous and so, so good.' Trent Dalton

'The Drowning has all the hallmarks of great Aussie crime writing … Brown's punchy prose makes this novel absolutely devourable, and all will be revealed in due time. The Drowning is highly recommended holiday reading.' Better Reading

The body of a local teenage boy is found on the beach of a sleepy northern New South Wales town. David went for an evening swim and got into trouble . . . at least, that's what it looks like.

Three weeks before, Leila, a young backpacker, didn't turn up for her shift at the local cafe. Benny, the owner, isn't worried. It happens - backpackers are always on the move. There'll be another one.

One of the locals, Adrian, has been a help to Benny. He's found him a nice little sideline. Not exactly legal. Is that all Adrian is arranging on the coast? He once was a cop but has he gone bad?

And in the backblocks outside town, a bikie gang is gearing up for a large consignment from South America.

Murder, drugs, liaisons and lies are stirring up this small coastal town.

With Bryan Brown's characteristic laconic storytelling - humorous, tough and suspenseful - the secrets of this seemingly idyllic town slowly come to the surface.

Praise for The Drowning:

'Actor Bryan Brown's impressive debut novel weaves an intriguing tapestry of sub-plots to create a roller-coaster and chilling Aussie thriller.' Australian Women's Weekly

'Dark and dirty but compulsive all at once.' The Daily Telegraph

'Unique, disruptive and yet recognisably Australian, The Drowning is a page-turning, multi-layered Australian crime thriller that will intrigue and satisfy fans of Chris Hammer, Dave Warner and Jock Serong.' Books + Publishing

'A thriller with cinematic sensibilities … come for the name; stay for the writing.' Good Reading

'Absolutely mesmerising … a cracking story.' The Weekend Australian

'Gripping, realistic, and made for compulsive reading.' Theresa Smith Writes