What do you think?
Rate this book
Martin Scarsden #4
Legacy
Martin Scarsden flees an assassination attempt but lands in even more trouble with a deadly family feud leaving him at death's door in Chris Hammer's next blockbuster crime novel.
MARTIN SCARSDEN IS ON THE RUN. WILL THE DESERT SAVE HIM – OR BURY HIM?
The blast hits them, a shock wave ... glass smashing ... Somewhere a woman screams. A second explosion, and Martin looks towards the hall, what's left of it, flames roaring and smoke pouring skywards.
Someone is targeting Martin Scarsden. They bomb his book launch and shoot up his hometown.
Fleeing for his life, he learns that nowhere is safe, not even the outback. The killers are closing in, and it's all he can do to survive.
But who wants to kill him and why? Can he discover their deadly motives and turn the tables?
In a dramatic finale, Martin finds his fate linked to the disgraced ex-wife of a football icon, a fugitive wanted for a decades-old murder, and two nineteenth-century explorers from a legendary expedition.
Martin Scarsden's most perilous, challenging and intriguing assignment yet.
Praise for Chris
'Hammer has confirmed and underlined his reputation as numbering among the very best novelists in detective fiction.' Sydney Morning Herald
'Complex and nuanced, this intelligent thriller shows why former political journalist Chris Hammer has become one of Australia's best-loved authors.' Caroline Overington, The Australian on The Valley
'Chris Hammer at the height of his powers ... absolutely not to be missed!' Hayley Scrivenor, author of Dirt Town on The Tilt
'A darkly simmering mystery, gorgeously told ... Utterly brilliant.' Dervla McTiernan, author of The Ruin and What Happened to Nina?
'It would be unfair to say Chris Hammer is at the top of the crime writing game. Chris Hammer IS the game. Full Tilt may be a better title, given the speed with which readers will devour Chris Hammer's exceptional novel.' Benjamin Stevenson, author of Everyone On This Train is a Suspect
'Like everything Chris Hammer writes, The Tilt is a rich, complex thriller, packed with detail and intrigue. There's a reason why this guy is on my auto-read list!' Christian White, author of The Nowhere Child
'Chris Hammer is a great writer ... a leader in Australian noir.' Michael Connelly
'If you haven't read Hammer before, this is the perfect time to experience one of the best writers Australia has to offer. Rife with intrigue, murder, and small-town secrets, Treasure and Dirt is a spectacular thriller that delivers some unforgettable characters with twists and turns you won't see coming. Hammer has raised the bar for Australian crime, and this is a must-read.' Better Reading
'Chris Hammer has excelled himself with Trust ... a thriller strong on character development, social insights, ethical issues and dramatic action.
MARTIN SCARSDEN IS ON THE RUN. WILL THE DESERT SAVE HIM – OR BURY HIM?
The blast hits them, a shock wave ... glass smashing ... Somewhere a woman screams. A second explosion, and Martin looks towards the hall, what's left of it, flames roaring and smoke pouring skywards.
Someone is targeting Martin Scarsden. They bomb his book launch and shoot up his hometown.
Fleeing for his life, he learns that nowhere is safe, not even the outback. The killers are closing in, and it's all he can do to survive.
But who wants to kill him and why? Can he discover their deadly motives and turn the tables?
In a dramatic finale, Martin finds his fate linked to the disgraced ex-wife of a football icon, a fugitive wanted for a decades-old murder, and two nineteenth-century explorers from a legendary expedition.
Martin Scarsden's most perilous, challenging and intriguing assignment yet.
Praise for Chris
'Hammer has confirmed and underlined his reputation as numbering among the very best novelists in detective fiction.' Sydney Morning Herald
'Complex and nuanced, this intelligent thriller shows why former political journalist Chris Hammer has become one of Australia's best-loved authors.' Caroline Overington, The Australian on The Valley
'Chris Hammer at the height of his powers ... absolutely not to be missed!' Hayley Scrivenor, author of Dirt Town on The Tilt
'A darkly simmering mystery, gorgeously told ... Utterly brilliant.' Dervla McTiernan, author of The Ruin and What Happened to Nina?
'It would be unfair to say Chris Hammer is at the top of the crime writing game. Chris Hammer IS the game. Full Tilt may be a better title, given the speed with which readers will devour Chris Hammer's exceptional novel.' Benjamin Stevenson, author of Everyone On This Train is a Suspect
'Like everything Chris Hammer writes, The Tilt is a rich, complex thriller, packed with detail and intrigue. There's a reason why this guy is on my auto-read list!' Christian White, author of The Nowhere Child
'Chris Hammer is a great writer ... a leader in Australian noir.' Michael Connelly
'If you haven't read Hammer before, this is the perfect time to experience one of the best writers Australia has to offer. Rife with intrigue, murder, and small-town secrets, Treasure and Dirt is a spectacular thriller that delivers some unforgettable characters with twists and turns you won't see coming. Hammer has raised the bar for Australian crime, and this is a must-read.' Better Reading
'Chris Hammer has excelled himself with Trust ... a thriller strong on character development, social insights, ethical issues and dramatic action.
491 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 30, 2025
490 people are currently reading
1296 people want to read
About the author
Chris Hammer
11 books1,436 followersChris Hammer is a leading Australian crime fiction author. His first book, Scrublands, was an instant #1 bestseller upon publication in 2018. It won the prestigious UK Crime Writers' Association John Creasey New Blood Dagger and was shortlisted for awards in Australia and the United States.
Scrublands has been sold into translation in several foreign languages. Chris's follow-up books—Silver (2019), Trust (2020), Treasure & Dirt (2021), The Tilt (2022) and The Seven (2023)—are also bestsellers and all have been shortlisted for major literary prizes. The Valley is his seventh novel.
The Tilt (published as Dead Man's Creek in the UK) was named The Sunday Times Crime Book of the Year for 2023.
Scrublands has been adapted for television, screening globally, and production is underway for a second series based on Silver.
Before turning to fiction, Chris was a journalist for more than thirty years. He has written two non-fiction books The River (2010) and The Coast (2012).
He has a bachelor's degree in journalism from Charles Sturt University and a master's degree in international relations from the Australian National University.
Scrublands has been sold into translation in several foreign languages. Chris's follow-up books—Silver (2019), Trust (2020), Treasure & Dirt (2021), The Tilt (2022) and The Seven (2023)—are also bestsellers and all have been shortlisted for major literary prizes. The Valley is his seventh novel.
The Tilt (published as Dead Man's Creek in the UK) was named The Sunday Times Crime Book of the Year for 2023.
Scrublands has been adapted for television, screening globally, and production is underway for a second series based on Silver.
Before turning to fiction, Chris was a journalist for more than thirty years. He has written two non-fiction books The River (2010) and The Coast (2012).
He has a bachelor's degree in journalism from Charles Sturt University and a master's degree in international relations from the Australian National University.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 224 reviews
November 3, 2025
5★
Martin Scarsden is back in Port Silver for the launch of his latest book, the aforementioned exposé, so he has reason to be a little wary. Mandy and little Liam are with him, as are friends, family, and any of the coastal locals who'd like an excuse to party.
The party goes off with a bang, and Martin heads for the hills. Not so much the hills, but the bush at the edge of the desert. He's sent there by his friend Jack, of ASIO (Australian Security Intelligence Organisation), who has arranged a fake name and papers and warned him of some B-team of hit men who are after him from overseas.
A text reads: 'Careful. B-team in country.'
I think almost every layer of law enforcement is brought into the story at one time or another, from ASIO and the Australian Federal Police down to our old Hammer friends Ivan Lucic and Nell Buchanan, the Victorian detectives from previous adventures.
Alongside Martin's problem is that of Ecco, Ekaterina Boland, a successful ghostwriter whose new book about a celebrity is due to be published. She loathes the guy, but the payment for the job will cover the deposit for her new digs – a sparkling, spartan, high-rise apartment.
Martin's chapters are written in the third-person, while Ecco's are written in the first person, which I found made it really easy to know whose story was whose when they began to overlap.
Legacy means different things in different situations, all of which I think are covered here. Martin is trying to build a reputation beyond straight reporting to establish himself as an investigative journalist, breaking big stories and creating his own legacy.
Ecco has split from her philandering husband and wants to move on from the bad choices she's made. She is going to make it on her own and be somebody. But her excitement is short-lived. The publisher has cancelled publication of her new (ghost-written) book because the celebrity has been accused of decades-long predatorial child abuse. "His" book won't sell.
Her agent finds her a job working on a family history with grazier Clay Carmichael, a legacy he wants to leave for his children and theirs. He is the owner of Longchamps Downs, on the edge of outback NSW near Port Paroo, handed down from his parents and grandparents.
The classic legacy, inheritance, is the issue with both Longchamps Downs and Tavelly Station, another old property owned by the Stantons. Along with the land, the owners inherited the long-running feud between the families.
Martin is following the ASIO orders and heads to Port Paroo.
Ah, but there's a flood coming down the dry riverbed from the north, and in this part of the world, they know pretty much when, how widespread, and how long the roads will be cut off and then unnavigable until they dry out.
When Martin arrives, the phone towers are being repaired, so there's no coverage except by satellite. He relaxes a bit, checks in at the pub with his new name and is welcomed by the publican
Ecco arrives later at Longchamps Downs, where she will stay in the manager's cottage while she works on the old books and diaries and photographs left by previous generations.
She begins research, discovers intriguing history about old explorers and possible nearby treasure and gets particularly curious about the feud. It was nearly resolved twenty years earlier when Roman Stanton and Chloe Carmichael were engaged, bringing the families together, but he was shot dead and Chloe disappeared, presumed to be the murderer. Romeo and Juliet, with a nasty twist.
Clay is certain his daughter is still alive. His son now lives in Brisbane with his family, so Clay has a manager and plans to sell the property, But first, he wants to leave a history book for his heirs.
Meanwhile, the phone lines are fixed and Martin gets a call from Jack Goffing, the ASIO guy.
Another great Hammer book. Complex and just the sort of story I love to sink into. He's got a keen eye and ear for country Australia.
Thanks to NetGalley and Allen & Unwin for the copy for review.
"Write an exposé on organised crime and that’s what you can expect. That and the death threats."
Martin Scarsden is back in Port Silver for the launch of his latest book, the aforementioned exposé, so he has reason to be a little wary. Mandy and little Liam are with him, as are friends, family, and any of the coastal locals who'd like an excuse to party.
The party goes off with a bang, and Martin heads for the hills. Not so much the hills, but the bush at the edge of the desert. He's sent there by his friend Jack, of ASIO (Australian Security Intelligence Organisation), who has arranged a fake name and papers and warned him of some B-team of hit men who are after him from overseas.
A text reads: 'Careful. B-team in country.'
I think almost every layer of law enforcement is brought into the story at one time or another, from ASIO and the Australian Federal Police down to our old Hammer friends Ivan Lucic and Nell Buchanan, the Victorian detectives from previous adventures.
Alongside Martin's problem is that of Ecco, Ekaterina Boland, a successful ghostwriter whose new book about a celebrity is due to be published. She loathes the guy, but the payment for the job will cover the deposit for her new digs – a sparkling, spartan, high-rise apartment.
Martin's chapters are written in the third-person, while Ecco's are written in the first person, which I found made it really easy to know whose story was whose when they began to overlap.
"I no longer dreamt of dilapidated Queenslanders and joyous renovation. This had zero character, nothing worn, nothing tainted: no memories, no legacy; none of mine, none of anyone else’s. It shone with glass and engineered stone, hermetically sealed behind double-glazed windows. The stainless steel on the fridge, the stovetop, the oven, the range hood, the kettle and the toaster; all glowed in uniform splendour. The coffee machine represented a new and better world."
Legacy means different things in different situations, all of which I think are covered here. Martin is trying to build a reputation beyond straight reporting to establish himself as an investigative journalist, breaking big stories and creating his own legacy.
Ecco has split from her philandering husband and wants to move on from the bad choices she's made. She is going to make it on her own and be somebody. But her excitement is short-lived. The publisher has cancelled publication of her new (ghost-written) book because the celebrity has been accused of decades-long predatorial child abuse. "His" book won't sell.
Her agent finds her a job working on a family history with grazier Clay Carmichael, a legacy he wants to leave for his children and theirs. He is the owner of Longchamps Downs, on the edge of outback NSW near Port Paroo, handed down from his parents and grandparents.
The classic legacy, inheritance, is the issue with both Longchamps Downs and Tavelly Station, another old property owned by the Stantons. Along with the land, the owners inherited the long-running feud between the families.
Martin is following the ASIO orders and heads to Port Paroo.
"It rankles Martin, his inability to do anything, to be so reliant on others. He stops the car, considers the town. It sits at a crossroad, where the east–west road between Bourke and Tibooburra meets the Sundowner Track running north–south from nowhere to nowhere, tracking the ephemeral river. A crossroad and a here-again-gone-again river. Barely enough reason to justify a town."
Ah, but there's a flood coming down the dry riverbed from the north, and in this part of the world, they know pretty much when, how widespread, and how long the roads will be cut off and then unnavigable until they dry out.
When Martin arrives, the phone towers are being repaired, so there's no coverage except by satellite. He relaxes a bit, checks in at the pub with his new name and is welcomed by the publican
"a cheery-looking woman, hair a messy dark bob, skin tanned. She looks about forty, a few years younger than Martin. Martin can see evidence of Asian heritage, but the voice is all Australian: the same treble twang as roofing metal.
'What can I get you? Beer? After a feed?'
. . .
'I’m Maureen, darl. Everyone calls me Maz. Maz Gingelly.'"
Ecco arrives later at Longchamps Downs, where she will stay in the manager's cottage while she works on the old books and diaries and photographs left by previous generations.
She begins research, discovers intriguing history about old explorers and possible nearby treasure and gets particularly curious about the feud. It was nearly resolved twenty years earlier when Roman Stanton and Chloe Carmichael were engaged, bringing the families together, but he was shot dead and Chloe disappeared, presumed to be the murderer. Romeo and Juliet, with a nasty twist.
Clay is certain his daughter is still alive. His son now lives in Brisbane with his family, so Clay has a manager and plans to sell the property, But first, he wants to leave a history book for his heirs.
Meanwhile, the phone lines are fixed and Martin gets a call from Jack Goffing, the ASIO guy.
"'Get going. Disappear. Into the desert if you have to.' And Goffing ends the call.
But it’s too late. As Martin has been talking to Jack Goffing, he’s been watching a cloud of dust. A big twin-cab, coming from Port Paroo, across the bridge. But not going on to Bourke. It turns onto the Sundowner Track. He hopes the driver will think nothing of him, just drive on past. But instead it pulls up next to him. Before he can do anything, a man emerges, walks up to the Subaru, smiling broadly. He opens Martin’s door. He has a gun."
Another great Hammer book. Complex and just the sort of story I love to sink into. He's got a keen eye and ear for country Australia.
Thanks to NetGalley and Allen & Unwin for the copy for review.
November 15, 2025
I enjoy Chris Hammer’s stories featuring a group of characters who operate largely in the less trodden areas of New South Wales, Australia. This time it’s the turn of investigative journalist Martin Scarsden. He’s celebrating the launch of his latest book on an Aussie crime family when an attempt is made on his life. He’s advised to separate from his family and flee into the Outback. Eventually, he arrives in a small town, close to the border with Queensland, that seems like the ideal place to lay low for a while.
As always with stories set in this barren landscape, the extreme heat and limited facilities available play as much a part in the story as do the people who inhabit this wild place. I didn’t travel inland beyond ‘the bush’ during my sole visit to Australia, but I regret that now. This vast dry, desert-like area is like nowhere else on earth. Its sheer size beggars belief. The people who live in the small towns – at least, as they are described by the author – are hardened to the conditions, but aware of the risks should they or anyone else stray far from the populated areas. Care needs to be taken, danger lurks out there.
Hammer always provides a map – a useful reference tool. And as the cast sizes are usually quite small, the characters can soon become familiar. I won’t delve too much into the plot here, but suffice to say that all is not quite what it seems – no surprise! Scarsden is attempting to keep his identity a secret whilst, having stumbled upon an interesting local dispute, covertly undertaking an investigation that might provide him with the material for another book. Yes, there is mystery and skulduggery aplenty here.
It’s true to say that the tale is made up of what you might term a series of unlikely events. But it’s great fun, and Hammer keeps the energy high, with several threads forever competing for attention. I really enjoyed it.
My thanks to the publisher for supplying a copy of this book via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
As always with stories set in this barren landscape, the extreme heat and limited facilities available play as much a part in the story as do the people who inhabit this wild place. I didn’t travel inland beyond ‘the bush’ during my sole visit to Australia, but I regret that now. This vast dry, desert-like area is like nowhere else on earth. Its sheer size beggars belief. The people who live in the small towns – at least, as they are described by the author – are hardened to the conditions, but aware of the risks should they or anyone else stray far from the populated areas. Care needs to be taken, danger lurks out there.
Hammer always provides a map – a useful reference tool. And as the cast sizes are usually quite small, the characters can soon become familiar. I won’t delve too much into the plot here, but suffice to say that all is not quite what it seems – no surprise! Scarsden is attempting to keep his identity a secret whilst, having stumbled upon an interesting local dispute, covertly undertaking an investigation that might provide him with the material for another book. Yes, there is mystery and skulduggery aplenty here.
It’s true to say that the tale is made up of what you might term a series of unlikely events. But it’s great fun, and Hammer keeps the energy high, with several threads forever competing for attention. I really enjoyed it.
My thanks to the publisher for supplying a copy of this book via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
September 30, 2025
EXCERPT: 'There is an app. Encrypted. Anonymous. Used by the worst of the worst. Airtasker for the underworld. Armed robberies. Abductions. Murders.'
'You've hacked it?' Mandy had asked.
'Unhackable,' said Goffing. 'We have human intelligence. A source with access.'
'You're saying that attack last night was outsourced?' asked Martin.
Goffing had looked him in the eye, expression hard. 'Not sure about last night. I'm talking about the next one.'
'Next one?' Mandy was on the couch, face alive with trepidation. Liam was asleep, his head on her lap. Martin was glad the boy couldn't hear their conversation.
The ASIO man's face was so serious he looked sorrowful. 'A contract. Taken out on you, Martin. In the early hours.' Goffing's tone was professional, but his eyes were brimming with disquiet.
'A contract?' Mandy gasped, appalled; it was a word from a gangster movie, from chicago and New York, not rural New South Wales.
ABOUT 'LEGACY': Martin Scarsden flees an assassination attempt but lands in even more trouble with a deadly family feud leaving him at death's door.
MARTIN SCARSDEN IS ON THE RUN. WILL THE DESERT SAVE HIM – OR BURY HIM?
The blast hits them, a shock wave ... glass smashing ... Somewhere a woman screams. A second explosion, and Martin looks towards the hall, what's left of it, flames roaring and smoke pouring skywards.
Someone is targeting Martin Scarsden. They bomb his book launch and shoot up his hometown.
Fleeing for his life, he learns that nowhere is safe, not even the outback. The killers are closing in, and it's all he can do to survive.
But who wants to kill him and why? Can he discover their deadly motives and turn the tables?
In a dramatic finale, Martin finds his fate linked to the disgraced ex-wife of a football icon, a fugitive wanted for a decades-old murder, and two nineteenth-century explorers from a legendary expedition.
Martin Scarsden's most perilous, challenging and intriguing assignment yet.
MY THOUGHTS: Intrigue. Murder. Long buried secrets. Lies. All set in the Australian Outback.
Chris Hammer is the master of his genre. Legacy starts off with a bang - literally - that leaves Martin Scarsden running for his life and had me frantically turning the pages, reading Legacy in two days.
Hammer has taken a decades old family feud, a writer on the run for his life, a missing woman, some stolen paintings and the disgraced ex-wife of a prominent footballer, mixed them with an outback flood and produced a riveting and suspenseful masterpiece.
Only Scarsden could, while on the run, stumble across and become involved in a series of events that will not only uncover a killer but provide him with enough fodder for another book. But Scarsden is not the only writer visiting this small town - there's Ecco, a ghostwriter with an unsavory past charged with writing a family history before the property passes out of their hands. While doing her research she stumbles across some important information of historical significance which will inadvertently cause her to cross paths with Scarsden and set off an unforeseen chain of events.
Legacy is a thrilling and rich mutli-layered read filled with an escalating tension. It encompasses both the beauty and the dangers of the outback while highlighting the desperation of humans whose greed has them backed into a corner.
A not-to-be-missed addition to the Scarsden series.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
#Legacy #NetGalley
MEET THE AUTHOR: CHRIS HAMMER was a journalist for more than thirty years, dividing his career between covering Australian federal politics and international affairs. For many years he was a roving foreign correspondent for SBS TV's flagship current affairs program Dateline. He has reported from more than 30 countries on six continents. In Canberra, roles included chief political correspondent for The Bulletin, current affairs correspondent for SBS TV and a senior political journalist for The Age.
Chris has a bachelor's degree in journalism from Charles Sturt University and a master's degree in international relations from the Australian National University. He lives in Canberra with his wife, Dr Tomoko Akami. The couple have two children.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Allen & Unwin via NetGalley for providing a digital ARC of Legacy by Chris Hammer for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
'You've hacked it?' Mandy had asked.
'Unhackable,' said Goffing. 'We have human intelligence. A source with access.'
'You're saying that attack last night was outsourced?' asked Martin.
Goffing had looked him in the eye, expression hard. 'Not sure about last night. I'm talking about the next one.'
'Next one?' Mandy was on the couch, face alive with trepidation. Liam was asleep, his head on her lap. Martin was glad the boy couldn't hear their conversation.
The ASIO man's face was so serious he looked sorrowful. 'A contract. Taken out on you, Martin. In the early hours.' Goffing's tone was professional, but his eyes were brimming with disquiet.
'A contract?' Mandy gasped, appalled; it was a word from a gangster movie, from chicago and New York, not rural New South Wales.
ABOUT 'LEGACY': Martin Scarsden flees an assassination attempt but lands in even more trouble with a deadly family feud leaving him at death's door.
MARTIN SCARSDEN IS ON THE RUN. WILL THE DESERT SAVE HIM – OR BURY HIM?
The blast hits them, a shock wave ... glass smashing ... Somewhere a woman screams. A second explosion, and Martin looks towards the hall, what's left of it, flames roaring and smoke pouring skywards.
Someone is targeting Martin Scarsden. They bomb his book launch and shoot up his hometown.
Fleeing for his life, he learns that nowhere is safe, not even the outback. The killers are closing in, and it's all he can do to survive.
But who wants to kill him and why? Can he discover their deadly motives and turn the tables?
In a dramatic finale, Martin finds his fate linked to the disgraced ex-wife of a football icon, a fugitive wanted for a decades-old murder, and two nineteenth-century explorers from a legendary expedition.
Martin Scarsden's most perilous, challenging and intriguing assignment yet.
MY THOUGHTS: Intrigue. Murder. Long buried secrets. Lies. All set in the Australian Outback.
Chris Hammer is the master of his genre. Legacy starts off with a bang - literally - that leaves Martin Scarsden running for his life and had me frantically turning the pages, reading Legacy in two days.
Hammer has taken a decades old family feud, a writer on the run for his life, a missing woman, some stolen paintings and the disgraced ex-wife of a prominent footballer, mixed them with an outback flood and produced a riveting and suspenseful masterpiece.
Only Scarsden could, while on the run, stumble across and become involved in a series of events that will not only uncover a killer but provide him with enough fodder for another book. But Scarsden is not the only writer visiting this small town - there's Ecco, a ghostwriter with an unsavory past charged with writing a family history before the property passes out of their hands. While doing her research she stumbles across some important information of historical significance which will inadvertently cause her to cross paths with Scarsden and set off an unforeseen chain of events.
Legacy is a thrilling and rich mutli-layered read filled with an escalating tension. It encompasses both the beauty and the dangers of the outback while highlighting the desperation of humans whose greed has them backed into a corner.
A not-to-be-missed addition to the Scarsden series.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
#Legacy #NetGalley
MEET THE AUTHOR: CHRIS HAMMER was a journalist for more than thirty years, dividing his career between covering Australian federal politics and international affairs. For many years he was a roving foreign correspondent for SBS TV's flagship current affairs program Dateline. He has reported from more than 30 countries on six continents. In Canberra, roles included chief political correspondent for The Bulletin, current affairs correspondent for SBS TV and a senior political journalist for The Age.
Chris has a bachelor's degree in journalism from Charles Sturt University and a master's degree in international relations from the Australian National University. He lives in Canberra with his wife, Dr Tomoko Akami. The couple have two children.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Allen & Unwin via NetGalley for providing a digital ARC of Legacy by Chris Hammer for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
September 6, 2025
A new Martin Scarsden book!! The last few Chris Hammer books have seen Martin as a supporting character, it in Legacy we have a brand new story with our favourite investigative journalist. Never fear, there are cameos from all of our other favourites too.
Legacy starts with a literal bang and does not let up. Wherever Martin is danger is never far behind. As he is about to celebrate the launch of his new book about a notorious Melbourne crime family, Martin and his family are forced to go into hiding after a bomb threat. Mandy and Liam head off without Martin, who heads out to the NSW outback to hide. Of course, he has a recognisable face now and it isn’t easy to disappear. Soon his life starts to fall apart, and being the man that he is, he is determined to find out who is after him and why.
I have been a big fan of this author ever since Scrublands, which is still one of my favourite crime books. We always have such a great sense of the environment that these characters are faced with,really puts us the reader into the story so well. You can see the setting and feel the heat and rain as you are reading. Of course there is always more than one storyline happening but how they are connected is a mystery to begin with.
Legacy is a book to take your time with and take it all in. Chris Hammers writing is just superb and I was feeling the tension, feeling worried for Martin and his situation. The climate is unrelenting out there and it really makes you think about what it is like to live in these areas.
Another absolutely brilliant book from a favourite author. A massive thank you to Allen and Unwin for sending me an early copy and allowing me to spend more time with Martin Scarsden. Publishes is Australia on September 30th.
Legacy starts with a literal bang and does not let up. Wherever Martin is danger is never far behind. As he is about to celebrate the launch of his new book about a notorious Melbourne crime family, Martin and his family are forced to go into hiding after a bomb threat. Mandy and Liam head off without Martin, who heads out to the NSW outback to hide. Of course, he has a recognisable face now and it isn’t easy to disappear. Soon his life starts to fall apart, and being the man that he is, he is determined to find out who is after him and why.
I have been a big fan of this author ever since Scrublands, which is still one of my favourite crime books. We always have such a great sense of the environment that these characters are faced with,really puts us the reader into the story so well. You can see the setting and feel the heat and rain as you are reading. Of course there is always more than one storyline happening but how they are connected is a mystery to begin with.
Legacy is a book to take your time with and take it all in. Chris Hammers writing is just superb and I was feeling the tension, feeling worried for Martin and his situation. The climate is unrelenting out there and it really makes you think about what it is like to live in these areas.
Another absolutely brilliant book from a favourite author. A massive thank you to Allen and Unwin for sending me an early copy and allowing me to spend more time with Martin Scarsden. Publishes is Australia on September 30th.
November 3, 2025
This is a book about Martin Scarsden. He is a journalist who likes to speak the truth. This often gets him into trouble. He has just released a book, and it looks like someone has it in for him. They release a bomb at the book launch.
He flees leaving behind his wife and son. He retreats to the outback, but he finds trouble there too. They seem to know where he is.
Chris Hammer is a talented writer; there is no doubt about that. In this one there are so many characters, that you really need to keep your eyes on the ball. It has an historical aspect to it. An ongoing feud between 2 families over land, water and cattle.
It's a slow burn till just over halfway, then it really moves at a fast pace. In the end we get the answers we are looking for.
What I loved the most about this book was the setting. The Australian outback. Chris describes it perfectly.
He flees leaving behind his wife and son. He retreats to the outback, but he finds trouble there too. They seem to know where he is.
Chris Hammer is a talented writer; there is no doubt about that. In this one there are so many characters, that you really need to keep your eyes on the ball. It has an historical aspect to it. An ongoing feud between 2 families over land, water and cattle.
It's a slow burn till just over halfway, then it really moves at a fast pace. In the end we get the answers we are looking for.
What I loved the most about this book was the setting. The Australian outback. Chris describes it perfectly.
October 18, 2025
Another excellent book by Chris Hammer, the fourth Martin Scarsden, this time set in the outback. There’s drought, heat, danger, explosions, and Martin is escaping the city to avoid being killed. Great characters and a well plotted storyline, very hard to put down in the latter parts.
October 27, 2025
Chris Hammer never fails to deliver books that keep me hooked until the very last sentence. This one had it all, and more and I highly recommend my small town mystery loving GR friends get their hands on this one! 5 solid gold stars from me.
November 23, 2025
For his latest novel, Chris Hammer brings back his original protagonist, investigative journalist Martin Scarsden. At the launch of his latest book, exposing a mafia boss, there is an explosion at the venue and shots are fired. Fearing for his life, Martin escapes to the tiny outback town of Port Paroo, but still fears a hit squad, known as the B-Team are out to kill him.
At the same time, ghost writer, Ekaterina Boland, known as Ecco, has been hired to write the history of a cattle farm called Longchamp Downs, 200km north of Port Paroo, over the border in Queensland.
Both Martin and Ecco soon find themselves embroiled in a generations old feud between the Carmichaels who own Longchamp Downs and the Stantons of Tavelly Station, a farm just to the south of Port Paroo. There are obviously two storylines going on here, one of someone trying to destroy and discredit Martin, the other concerning the theft of paintings from the late 19th century of a rock formation known as The Camel's Head.
Once again, Chris Hammer has managed to weave a complex and thrilling tale set in a sparsely populated and mysterious location where battling against the unpredictable weather is the constant need for survival.
At the same time, ghost writer, Ekaterina Boland, known as Ecco, has been hired to write the history of a cattle farm called Longchamp Downs, 200km north of Port Paroo, over the border in Queensland.
Both Martin and Ecco soon find themselves embroiled in a generations old feud between the Carmichaels who own Longchamp Downs and the Stantons of Tavelly Station, a farm just to the south of Port Paroo. There are obviously two storylines going on here, one of someone trying to destroy and discredit Martin, the other concerning the theft of paintings from the late 19th century of a rock formation known as The Camel's Head.
Once again, Chris Hammer has managed to weave a complex and thrilling tale set in a sparsely populated and mysterious location where battling against the unpredictable weather is the constant need for survival.
November 12, 2025
Another excellent Martin Scarsden story, set in remote Australia.
November 27, 2025
Chris Hammer's done it again. He's also stuck with the same formula that he's used for all his books. It is a winning formula and sometimes it's nice to just know what you're going to get.
I really enjoy his work in audiobook form. The writing is smooth and I dabbled with a 5 star rating and maybe on reflection it will get there. I do just gobble these up.
I really enjoy his work in audiobook form. The writing is smooth and I dabbled with a 5 star rating and maybe on reflection it will get there. I do just gobble these up.
October 18, 2025
I feel like Chris Hammer got his groove back with this one. After an overcooked The Valley we’re back to Martin Scarsden, journalist and crime book author who has fired up the Subaru for a dash to the outback, trying to escape would-be assassins who seem to have it in for him. He turns up in a drought stricken one pub town with secrets and a long standing feud between two large pastoral families. As always the landscape is drawn in detail, this time it’s a flat expanse with a series of ridges and life giving floodwaters from Queensland slowly making their way down. A good entertaining read.
August 5, 2025
This is the fourth instalment of the Martin Scarsden series.
After an attempt on his life at his book launch Martin Scarsden goes into hiding in the Australian outback.
A thrilling story full of action and with some great characters.
I really enjoyed this book and I didn’t want to put it down. I will be eagerly waiting for the next book by this author.
Thank you to NetGalley and Headline for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
After an attempt on his life at his book launch Martin Scarsden goes into hiding in the Australian outback.
A thrilling story full of action and with some great characters.
I really enjoyed this book and I didn’t want to put it down. I will be eagerly waiting for the next book by this author.
Thank you to NetGalley and Headline for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
October 27, 2025
‘Stay safe. Great advice. Brilliant. But how do you stay safe from people keen to trash your reputation online, without a fact in sight?’
Martin Scarsden is in Port Silver for the launch of his latest book: an exposé on organised crime. But his book launch is bombed. Martin is forced to flee for safety, away from his partner Mandy and her young son Liam. Martin’s friend Jack (who works for ASIO) arranges false papers and suggest that Martin heads for the safety of the outback. Apparently, there’s a team of hitmen after him. So, Martin heads to Port Paroo, near the New South Wales and Queensland border.
Meanwhile, Ekaterina Boland (known as Ecco) needs a job. She works as a ghostwriter, but the book that was going to deliver her enough money for a deposit on an apartment, is cancelled when the subject is accused of child abuse. Ecco accepts a job to write the history of Longchamps Downs, a property near Port Paroo, owned by Clay Carmichael. Clay is preparing to sell the property but wants a history written for his family.
The story shifts between Martin and Ecco, with excerpts from Chloe Carmichael’s diary. Chloe is
Clay’s missing daughter. Chloe disappeared after the murder of her fiancé Roman Stanton and is widely thought to be responsible for his death. The Stanton family own Tavelly Station, and there has long been a feud between the Carmichaels and the Stantons. Perhaps the marriage of Chloe and Roman might have ended that feud but Roman’s murder put paid to that.
While Martin initially feels safe in Port Paroo, this quickly changes. Ecco, trying to escape aspects of her own past, is intrigued by the history of Longchamps Downs. And the more she researches the more mysteries she discovers. Stolen paintings, a long-standing feud and what happened to Chloe?
A meeting between Martin and Ecco leads to some nasty online attacks, and then Martin comes face to face with those who wish him dead. Who, and why?
The enervating heat of the outback and the importance of water are as much a part of this story as the people and events. Suspense is maintained throughout the novel and made it very hard to stop reading. While I worked out part of the mystery, other aspects escaped me entirely.
Another brilliant book by Mr Hammer. Highly recommended.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
Martin Scarsden is in Port Silver for the launch of his latest book: an exposé on organised crime. But his book launch is bombed. Martin is forced to flee for safety, away from his partner Mandy and her young son Liam. Martin’s friend Jack (who works for ASIO) arranges false papers and suggest that Martin heads for the safety of the outback. Apparently, there’s a team of hitmen after him. So, Martin heads to Port Paroo, near the New South Wales and Queensland border.
Meanwhile, Ekaterina Boland (known as Ecco) needs a job. She works as a ghostwriter, but the book that was going to deliver her enough money for a deposit on an apartment, is cancelled when the subject is accused of child abuse. Ecco accepts a job to write the history of Longchamps Downs, a property near Port Paroo, owned by Clay Carmichael. Clay is preparing to sell the property but wants a history written for his family.
The story shifts between Martin and Ecco, with excerpts from Chloe Carmichael’s diary. Chloe is
Clay’s missing daughter. Chloe disappeared after the murder of her fiancé Roman Stanton and is widely thought to be responsible for his death. The Stanton family own Tavelly Station, and there has long been a feud between the Carmichaels and the Stantons. Perhaps the marriage of Chloe and Roman might have ended that feud but Roman’s murder put paid to that.
While Martin initially feels safe in Port Paroo, this quickly changes. Ecco, trying to escape aspects of her own past, is intrigued by the history of Longchamps Downs. And the more she researches the more mysteries she discovers. Stolen paintings, a long-standing feud and what happened to Chloe?
A meeting between Martin and Ecco leads to some nasty online attacks, and then Martin comes face to face with those who wish him dead. Who, and why?
The enervating heat of the outback and the importance of water are as much a part of this story as the people and events. Suspense is maintained throughout the novel and made it very hard to stop reading. While I worked out part of the mystery, other aspects escaped me entirely.
Another brilliant book by Mr Hammer. Highly recommended.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
September 8, 2025
Chris Hammer has done it once more!
When you pick up a Chris Hammer book, you know you’re in for a thrilling ride—compelling plotlines, characters that feel like old friends, and a reminder of the fragilty of our environment.
In Legacy, we’re back in the world of Martin Scarsden as he is about to release his new book. What starts as a routine launch takes a tense turn when a bomb threat leads to an evacuation, and soon after, the Port Silver Surf Club explodes and shots are fired. With the chaos unfolding, Martin is quickly whisked away by his ASIO buddy, Jack Goffing, and sent off to the tiny, remote town of Port Paroo.
Martin’s journalistic instincts kick in right away, sparking a flurry of questions: why is he really here, and who can he trust? Separated from Mandy and Liam, he's left in the dark about their safety, relying solely on the locals and a shaky phone connection.
I thoroughly enjoyed the intertwining storylines in this book. Martin finds himself in a tight spot, while disgraced writer Ecco is tasked with chronicling the history of a long-standing pastoral family, only to stumble upon information that could have history changing implications and possibly solve one of Australia's greatest mysteries. Meanwhile, a decades-old murder mystery rooted in an ongoing family feud brings an added layer of intrigue.
Cameos from Ivan, Nell, a youthful Morris Montifore and a few other familiar faces, connect Legacy to previous Martin Scarsden and Ivan and Nell books.
True to form, Chris skilfully drops hints throughout the story that set the stage for how these various threads will interconnect. The pacing is spot-on, and there’s never a dull moment. Chris paints a vivid picture of the remoteness of this part of Australia and the beauty and danger that outback Australia presents.
I thoroughly enjoyed this read and can’t wait for next year’s instalment—I’ll be eagerly anticipating my next dose of Chris Hammer's masterful storytelling!
When you pick up a Chris Hammer book, you know you’re in for a thrilling ride—compelling plotlines, characters that feel like old friends, and a reminder of the fragilty of our environment.
In Legacy, we’re back in the world of Martin Scarsden as he is about to release his new book. What starts as a routine launch takes a tense turn when a bomb threat leads to an evacuation, and soon after, the Port Silver Surf Club explodes and shots are fired. With the chaos unfolding, Martin is quickly whisked away by his ASIO buddy, Jack Goffing, and sent off to the tiny, remote town of Port Paroo.
Martin’s journalistic instincts kick in right away, sparking a flurry of questions: why is he really here, and who can he trust? Separated from Mandy and Liam, he's left in the dark about their safety, relying solely on the locals and a shaky phone connection.
I thoroughly enjoyed the intertwining storylines in this book. Martin finds himself in a tight spot, while disgraced writer Ecco is tasked with chronicling the history of a long-standing pastoral family, only to stumble upon information that could have history changing implications and possibly solve one of Australia's greatest mysteries. Meanwhile, a decades-old murder mystery rooted in an ongoing family feud brings an added layer of intrigue.
Cameos from Ivan, Nell, a youthful Morris Montifore and a few other familiar faces, connect Legacy to previous Martin Scarsden and Ivan and Nell books.
True to form, Chris skilfully drops hints throughout the story that set the stage for how these various threads will interconnect. The pacing is spot-on, and there’s never a dull moment. Chris paints a vivid picture of the remoteness of this part of Australia and the beauty and danger that outback Australia presents.
I thoroughly enjoyed this read and can’t wait for next year’s instalment—I’ll be eagerly anticipating my next dose of Chris Hammer's masterful storytelling!
October 13, 2025
Big thanks to Allen & Unwin for sending us a copy to read and review.
Ready set action!
Martin Scarsden is back.
Bombs going off, shoot outs and a chase herald his return.
Who is after him now?
An intense, atmospheric and intriguing saga ensues in the border town of Port Paroo.
His book launch is shattered by a bombing, a place where his friends and family have gathered to celebrate.
He is left wondering what has happened to put his close ones at risk of violence.
Hearing about the carnage in his hometown makes him even more wary.
Being incognito in a small town the antidote.
An intricate web of badness shadows him and unleashes with fury as his life is in danger.
Fragments of clarity reveal links to a cold case murder and clues to the disappearance of explorers from colonial days.
Skeletons hide in every country town.
This latest offering by one of the leading Aussie crime writers is well written, plotted meticulously and it becomes visually descriptive.
A character with a big backstory enhances the drama and the criminal elements well.
A story that could translate to screen easily.
Ready set action!
Martin Scarsden is back.
Bombs going off, shoot outs and a chase herald his return.
Who is after him now?
An intense, atmospheric and intriguing saga ensues in the border town of Port Paroo.
His book launch is shattered by a bombing, a place where his friends and family have gathered to celebrate.
He is left wondering what has happened to put his close ones at risk of violence.
Hearing about the carnage in his hometown makes him even more wary.
Being incognito in a small town the antidote.
An intricate web of badness shadows him and unleashes with fury as his life is in danger.
Fragments of clarity reveal links to a cold case murder and clues to the disappearance of explorers from colonial days.
Skeletons hide in every country town.
This latest offering by one of the leading Aussie crime writers is well written, plotted meticulously and it becomes visually descriptive.
A character with a big backstory enhances the drama and the criminal elements well.
A story that could translate to screen easily.
October 6, 2025
4.5 ⭐
Chris Hammer has once again written an edge of your seat and thrilling read. A true master of Australian crime fiction who delivers every single time.
I loved the remote, arid and isolating setting. It gave an eerie feeling to the story as it unfolded. When paired with feuding families, a raft of secretive characters and the added complexity of the NSW/QLD border it had all the makings of a fabulous read.
I will read anything Chris Hammer writes...I don't need to read a blurb/synopsis...I'll dive straight in blind and know that when I come out the other side I will have read something that will have me saying 'wow...that was so freaking good'!!
Australian noir and fiction at its finest. Bravo Hammer!!!
Chris Hammer has once again written an edge of your seat and thrilling read. A true master of Australian crime fiction who delivers every single time.
I loved the remote, arid and isolating setting. It gave an eerie feeling to the story as it unfolded. When paired with feuding families, a raft of secretive characters and the added complexity of the NSW/QLD border it had all the makings of a fabulous read.
I will read anything Chris Hammer writes...I don't need to read a blurb/synopsis...I'll dive straight in blind and know that when I come out the other side I will have read something that will have me saying 'wow...that was so freaking good'!!
Australian noir and fiction at its finest. Bravo Hammer!!!
August 29, 2025
5* Legacy - Chris Hammer. A fantastic and twisty thriller set in tiny outback town where old family feuds flow down the generations.
Journalist Martin Scarsden is launching his new book in his local boat club until a bomb threat, an explosion and snipers force him to flee. Persuaded to go to ground in the outback, he finds himself in Port Paroo. Population 12. Ports 0.
Also washed up in the vicinity is Ecco, a ghost writer, procured to write the family history of a local cattle station before the owner sells up. Ecco comes with a sordid backstory that she hopes to keep under wraps.
As Ecco unearths family secrets and a link to history, Martin’s life remains under threat and their fates become intertwined in a riveting tale of droughts, feuds, greed and ruin.
Chris Hammer never disappoints. His books are clever, twisty and take you right to the heart of parched land and dehydration. This 4th outing with Martin Scarsden is brilliant. The intricate plot is carefully layered with huge doses of intrigue and twists. I always enjoy returning to characters I know and I particularly like that Chris Hammer weaves characters from two of his series together (for fans of Ivan and Nell, they are integral to parts of the plot in Legacy).
This would be a fantastic standalone but every book in the series is as good as this and adds a little more to Martin’s backstory. If you can, I would start at the beginning with Scrublands (which has also recently been made into a very strong TV adaptation).
Thanks to Headline (Wildfire) and Netgalley for an ARC. Looking forward to the next Chris Hammer!
Journalist Martin Scarsden is launching his new book in his local boat club until a bomb threat, an explosion and snipers force him to flee. Persuaded to go to ground in the outback, he finds himself in Port Paroo. Population 12. Ports 0.
Also washed up in the vicinity is Ecco, a ghost writer, procured to write the family history of a local cattle station before the owner sells up. Ecco comes with a sordid backstory that she hopes to keep under wraps.
As Ecco unearths family secrets and a link to history, Martin’s life remains under threat and their fates become intertwined in a riveting tale of droughts, feuds, greed and ruin.
Chris Hammer never disappoints. His books are clever, twisty and take you right to the heart of parched land and dehydration. This 4th outing with Martin Scarsden is brilliant. The intricate plot is carefully layered with huge doses of intrigue and twists. I always enjoy returning to characters I know and I particularly like that Chris Hammer weaves characters from two of his series together (for fans of Ivan and Nell, they are integral to parts of the plot in Legacy).
This would be a fantastic standalone but every book in the series is as good as this and adds a little more to Martin’s backstory. If you can, I would start at the beginning with Scrublands (which has also recently been made into a very strong TV adaptation).
Thanks to Headline (Wildfire) and Netgalley for an ARC. Looking forward to the next Chris Hammer!
November 6, 2025
Setting: Port Paroo, NSW, Australia; modern day.
In this fourth book featuring investigative journalist and author Martin Scarsden, Martin is in his hometown of Port Silver for the launch of his latest book, an expose of a Mafia family. But then the launch venue is destroyed in an explosion following a bomb threat and gunshots are heard...
Martin is advised by his friend in the security services to make himself scarce away from his family. At his suggestion, Martin ends up in the isolated rural community of Port Paroo, near the border between New South Wales and Queensland - where he finds himself embroiled in a long-running feud between two families over that most precious commodity in the Outback: water.
Also arriving in the area is Ekaterina Boland, known as Ecco, who has been hired as a ghostwriter by the head of one of those families to write a history of his family. Her research appears to suggest some anomalies in the history of Australian exploration but also some interesting information about the feud between the two local families....
This was another excellent instalment involving Martin Scarsden - great storylines and characters and also featuring a cameo appearance from the author's other main characters, detectives Ivan Lucic and Nell Buchanan. But the primary character in the book has to be the drought-ridden and ever dangerous Outback which really came to life for me throughout the story. Several unexpected twists kept me guessing right up to the bitter and violent end. Definitely the best in this superb series so far - 9.5/10.
In this fourth book featuring investigative journalist and author Martin Scarsden, Martin is in his hometown of Port Silver for the launch of his latest book, an expose of a Mafia family. But then the launch venue is destroyed in an explosion following a bomb threat and gunshots are heard...
Martin is advised by his friend in the security services to make himself scarce away from his family. At his suggestion, Martin ends up in the isolated rural community of Port Paroo, near the border between New South Wales and Queensland - where he finds himself embroiled in a long-running feud between two families over that most precious commodity in the Outback: water.
Also arriving in the area is Ekaterina Boland, known as Ecco, who has been hired as a ghostwriter by the head of one of those families to write a history of his family. Her research appears to suggest some anomalies in the history of Australian exploration but also some interesting information about the feud between the two local families....
This was another excellent instalment involving Martin Scarsden - great storylines and characters and also featuring a cameo appearance from the author's other main characters, detectives Ivan Lucic and Nell Buchanan. But the primary character in the book has to be the drought-ridden and ever dangerous Outback which really came to life for me throughout the story. Several unexpected twists kept me guessing right up to the bitter and violent end. Definitely the best in this superb series so far - 9.5/10.
November 27, 2025
Legacy is another gripping outback crime thriller from the pen of journalist-turned-bestselling crime author Chris Hammer.
July 27, 2025
I love this series featuring Martin Scarsden and was extremely excited to see the fourth book set in Australia on Netgalley and scooped it up. Once again Chris Hammer gives us another wonderful literary story full of action and entertainment that had me reading long into the night.
At almost 500 pages is a long book but it does not seem so once you pick it up. The story moves fast with a fantastic plot that has you thinking as you try to work out what is happening. Based on an Australian crime family it begins with a bang, literally and never lets up.
Another wonderful book by this author and I think my favourite so far. I look forward to the next instalment and see what Chris Hammer has for us next.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an advanced copy of the book, all opinions expressed are my own.
At almost 500 pages is a long book but it does not seem so once you pick it up. The story moves fast with a fantastic plot that has you thinking as you try to work out what is happening. Based on an Australian crime family it begins with a bang, literally and never lets up.
Another wonderful book by this author and I think my favourite so far. I look forward to the next instalment and see what Chris Hammer has for us next.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an advanced copy of the book, all opinions expressed are my own.
July 30, 2025
Despite having not read the previous books in this series, this was an enjoyable read. The earlier context didn’t seem to be necessary to follow the characters and plot.
While an enjoyable read, suspenseful in parts, it did feel like it dragged on more than it needed to. There were many plot turns but sometimes just too many details along the way.
There was a LOT to keep track of - multiple characters and events. There were also different time periods to keep track of- 100 years ago, 20 years ago and the present.
Still an enjoyable book, fast-paced at times, though requires some focus to keep up with!
While an enjoyable read, suspenseful in parts, it did feel like it dragged on more than it needed to. There were many plot turns but sometimes just too many details along the way.
There was a LOT to keep track of - multiple characters and events. There were also different time periods to keep track of- 100 years ago, 20 years ago and the present.
Still an enjoyable book, fast-paced at times, though requires some focus to keep up with!
October 20, 2025
I haven't yet met a Chris Hammer book I didn't like, and this was no exception! A rollicking good read from start to finish. Long may there be more. :-)
(I did spot a clanger, though, that the editors missed... in a chapter written from Ecco's viewpoint, *before* she knows Martin is involved, there's a sentence where she says "It was almost midnight when Martin left Port Paroo." Chapter 14, page 129 of the edition I read. It didn't spoil the story, once I got over the fact that I'd spotted such a glaring mistake.)
(I did spot a clanger, though, that the editors missed... in a chapter written from Ecco's viewpoint, *before* she knows Martin is involved, there's a sentence where she says "It was almost midnight when Martin left Port Paroo." Chapter 14, page 129 of the edition I read. It didn't spoil the story, once I got over the fact that I'd spotted such a glaring mistake.)
December 31, 2025
I love Chris Hammer's writing. Mostly his novels score 5 stars from me. With Legacy I have marked it down one stop.
There are three narrative voices in this novel: (1) Martin Scarsden in the third person; (2) Ecco in the first person and (3) a young woman's diary entries. Thankfully each narrator's chapters are clearly indicated. Gradually each person's role in the story unfolds, which kept me engrossed. It took many pages before the identity of the diarist is revealed to be Chloe Carmichael.
What links these three narrators is the enduring family feud between two farming dynasties, separated by the border between northwest NSW and southwest QLD. The Stantons of Tavelly Station vs. the Carmichaels of Longchamp Downs, both of which are located in the upper reaches of the Murray-Darling Basin, the Paroo river being an important stream in the Northern Basin. Access to reliable water is always an issue in these semi-arid regions and allegations of the illicit harvesting of water is one of the key sources of the animosity between the two clans. Another key source of enmity is the death of a Stanton and the disappearance of a Carmichael some 20 years earlier.
Martin's sudden arrival in the region is the result of his need to hide from whomever bombed his latest book launch in Port Silver. Ever the investigative journalist, he becomes enmeshed with the stories of the families and the townsfolk at "the back of Bourke" literally!! He paints a vivid picture of the locals, with their opinions and actions, often quirky. Chris Hammer's knowledge of the Murray-Darling Basin lands gives a strong sense of authenticity to the setting for this mysterious drama.
Roughly one fifth of the way through the book, my attention was riveted by information discovered by Ecco relating to the ill-fated 19th century Ludwig Leichhardt expedition. It seemed that two of Leichhardt's companions found their way to the area in search of treasure, but were never seen again. That certainly grabbed my attention!!
I read enthusiastically for many chapters, but by the last quarter of the book I was somewhat over it, hoping that things would become clear, secrets revealed, truth discovered. For me the diary entries of Chloe Carmichael began to bore me. I think they were too long, and did not add much of value to the story. I was confused by the map's inaccuracies which made the two stations seem much closer together than actuality. My paperback copy runs to 479 pages and I think the novel would have benefitted by a tighter edit.
I happily award this latest Martin Scarsdale adventure 4 stars, and look forward to reading more of his adventurous sleuthing in future.
There are three narrative voices in this novel: (1) Martin Scarsden in the third person; (2) Ecco in the first person and (3) a young woman's diary entries. Thankfully each narrator's chapters are clearly indicated. Gradually each person's role in the story unfolds, which kept me engrossed. It took many pages before the identity of the diarist is revealed to be Chloe Carmichael.
What links these three narrators is the enduring family feud between two farming dynasties, separated by the border between northwest NSW and southwest QLD. The Stantons of Tavelly Station vs. the Carmichaels of Longchamp Downs, both of which are located in the upper reaches of the Murray-Darling Basin, the Paroo river being an important stream in the Northern Basin. Access to reliable water is always an issue in these semi-arid regions and allegations of the illicit harvesting of water is one of the key sources of the animosity between the two clans. Another key source of enmity is the death of a Stanton and the disappearance of a Carmichael some 20 years earlier.
Martin's sudden arrival in the region is the result of his need to hide from whomever bombed his latest book launch in Port Silver. Ever the investigative journalist, he becomes enmeshed with the stories of the families and the townsfolk at "the back of Bourke" literally!! He paints a vivid picture of the locals, with their opinions and actions, often quirky. Chris Hammer's knowledge of the Murray-Darling Basin lands gives a strong sense of authenticity to the setting for this mysterious drama.
Roughly one fifth of the way through the book, my attention was riveted by information discovered by Ecco relating to the ill-fated 19th century Ludwig Leichhardt expedition. It seemed that two of Leichhardt's companions found their way to the area in search of treasure, but were never seen again. That certainly grabbed my attention!!
I read enthusiastically for many chapters, but by the last quarter of the book I was somewhat over it, hoping that things would become clear, secrets revealed, truth discovered. For me the diary entries of Chloe Carmichael began to bore me. I think they were too long, and did not add much of value to the story. I was confused by the map's inaccuracies which made the two stations seem much closer together than actuality. My paperback copy runs to 479 pages and I think the novel would have benefitted by a tighter edit.
I happily award this latest Martin Scarsdale adventure 4 stars, and look forward to reading more of his adventurous sleuthing in future.
July 16, 2025
I was so excited to see this book on NetGalley as I had thought Martin's story was finished. This book was incredible and I couldn't put it down. Chris Hammer delivers such a rich, layered story, capturing both the beauty and danger of the Australian outback. I especially enjoyed the nod to the dark, curly-haired bloke who plays Martin on TV.
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this advanced copy.
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this advanced copy.
December 23, 2025
Legacy is a powerful return to form and a reminder of why Chris Hammer remains one of my favorite crime writers. While The Tilt'; the previous book, didn’t quite hit the mark for me, Legacy feels like a confident and thrilling return to form for Chris Hammer, a reminder of just how good he is at this genre.
After seeing Martin Scarsden more in the background recently, it’s brilliant to have him front and centre again in a completely fresh story, while still enjoying subtle cameos from familiar faces. From the opening pages, the tension is relentless and never loosens its grip. This is a novel that pulls you in fast and keeps you turning pages right to the end.
As always, the storytelling is layered and intelligent. Multiple threads unfold with precision, creating intrigue and unease without ever feeling rushed or overwhelming. Hammer trusts the reader, and the payoff is deeply satisfying. This is very much a novel to savour rather than rush through.
I’ve been a fan since Scrublands, and Legacy only reinforces why. The writing is confident, immersive, and emotionally engaging, I genuinely felt the tension and found myself worrying about the characters long after I put the book down.
Five solid gold stars ...highly recommended. I finished the book in a week!
After seeing Martin Scarsden more in the background recently, it’s brilliant to have him front and centre again in a completely fresh story, while still enjoying subtle cameos from familiar faces. From the opening pages, the tension is relentless and never loosens its grip. This is a novel that pulls you in fast and keeps you turning pages right to the end.
As always, the storytelling is layered and intelligent. Multiple threads unfold with precision, creating intrigue and unease without ever feeling rushed or overwhelming. Hammer trusts the reader, and the payoff is deeply satisfying. This is very much a novel to savour rather than rush through.
I’ve been a fan since Scrublands, and Legacy only reinforces why. The writing is confident, immersive, and emotionally engaging, I genuinely felt the tension and found myself worrying about the characters long after I put the book down.
Five solid gold stars ...highly recommended. I finished the book in a week!
December 6, 2025
Another great book from Chris Hammer. It's the real outback. Set on the border of Qld and NSW in a fictional version of Hungerford, far beyond sealed roads, in the amazing Paroo River, which is more vague suggestion of theoretical water flow than actual water. There's at least three points of view including a diary from 20 years ago of a missing girl and suspect. But like previous books it starts with a bang. Who is after Scarsdale, who can he trust, and is his wife safe?
November 28, 2025
Great author, loved reading this novel, looking forward to his next book
July 20, 2025
Chris Hammer’s best yet.
Crime thriller meets historical fiction
Several modern day seemingly disparate plot lines conjoin seamlessly with each other and threads from the past. Well drawn characters here, beautifully painted landscape and metronomic pacing amplified by ratcheting tension and occasional staccato bursts of terror. Densely and intricately plotted yet easy to follow. This is a magnificent Australian crime thriller
Crime thriller meets historical fiction
Several modern day seemingly disparate plot lines conjoin seamlessly with each other and threads from the past. Well drawn characters here, beautifully painted landscape and metronomic pacing amplified by ratcheting tension and occasional staccato bursts of terror. Densely and intricately plotted yet easy to follow. This is a magnificent Australian crime thriller
September 19, 2025
Another amazing offering from Chris Hammer which keeps you on the edge of your seat.
Martin Scarsden is back and so are a few people and stories from his past as well as some new characters we may hear from again.
Somebody is after Martin and they won't stop at anything until he's dead.
Thank you to the publisher via NetGalley for the advanced copy. Out September 30th.
Martin Scarsden is back and so are a few people and stories from his past as well as some new characters we may hear from again.
Somebody is after Martin and they won't stop at anything until he's dead.
Thank you to the publisher via NetGalley for the advanced copy. Out September 30th.
October 26, 2025
It's a pretty typical Chris Hammer book. Fast-paced, action and a complex plot of crime and characters. Although enjoyable, I found there was less believability in this story. It felt like a stretch how everything happened and happened very coincidentally.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 224 reviews