Dirt Creek by Hayley Scrivenor

Book: Dirt Creek by Hayley Scrivenor

Rating: 4 stars

Review writer: Quinn T.

Dirt Creek by Hayley Scrivenor is set in a small, rural town in Australia. The small community of Durton, or ‘dirt town’ as referred to by the residents, is shaken when a 12 year old girl, Esther Bianchi, goes missing. In each chapter, the perspective switches to a new character, such as Esther's friend Lewis, her mother, and the lead detective on the case. With each new point of view, new and shocking details about Esther’s life and disappearance are revealed. Constance, Esther’s mother, begins uncovering astonishing stories about Esther’s father and the history of Durton. This novel gives a haunting portrayal of this decaying town and a deep view into the complexities of each character. Despite the horrifying nature of this story, it is incredibly realistic. I recommend Dirt Creek to fans of mystery and horror fiction; the author does an amazing job of keeping the reader on their toes while also creating realistic and yet twisted characters. Though I think it could be hard to keep track of the switching points of views and various characters, this novel is highly enthralling and will leave you awestruck.