A review by bookstorian
The Torrent by Dinuka McKenzie

5.0

When Sally suggested that I participate in the Chapters For Change Crime Fiction readalong for The Torrent I was instantly interested. I love Crime Fiction reads that are set in Australia and when I read that it was set in the Northern Rivers, a place not too far from home I was intrigued. 

Here's what I liked:
-The setting (as expected) and the inclusion of a flood. The images of what happened a few years ago in this region still roll through my head so it was so easy to imagine the landscape and the situation that Gabby and Joel found themselves in. 
- The perspective of a female detective late in her third trimester, the anxieties and experiences of this while still working a demanding job were unique. I felt like the well being of the baby became such a big motivator for me to finish the read. 
- The inclusion of two cases that were weaved throughout the story, there was a lot going on but also meant that the pace of everything was fast. The final climax scene towards the end of the story was so intense and shocking, I gasped so much while reading this scene. 
- The way everything wrapped together at the end. Nothing felt unfinished or unexplained. 

Excited to announce that the sequel is also sitting on my shelves ready and waiting (I had no idea this was a series) and I am keen to interview Dinuka on the podcast soon!