Chris Hammer writes Outback Noir and is considered by many to be the best Australian crime writer. If you like Jane Harper, you will love Chris' books.
Chris Hammer's latest standalone thriller Full Circle is published on the 29th of September 2026.
Describe your latest book in one sentence.
A former undercover cop seeking redemption enters a world of corporate greed and dynastic ambition as two uber-rich families go head-to-head. And then people start dying.
What soundtrack do you suggest readers should listen to while they read your latest book?
Something opulent and orchestral.
What's next?
Give me a break – this one isn’t even published yet! (Although I do have a cracking idea for another standalone…a mysterious child in an isolated town…)
What was the first book you remember reading?
All by myself? Possibly Blinky Bill, an Australian kids book about a mischievous koala – first published in the 1930s.
Please list your top five all-time favourite books (any genre)
- Goulds Book of Fish – Richard Flanagan
- Catch 22 – Joseph Heller
- Vernon God Little – DBC Pierre
- Truth – Peter Temple
- The Adventures of Tintin - Hergé
What is the most underrated crime novel, and why does it deserve more attention?
My next one. I need the money. Seriously? I loved Vine Street by Dominic Nolan – so atmospheric.
The Gumshoe Dude sneaks into your latest story while you’re not looking. What is he doing there?
Looking for a way out again, if he knows what’s good for him.
And now for the quick questions:
Top book on your TBR (to-be-read)
Useless Tse by Siang Lu
Poirot or Rebus?
Rebus.
Keyboard or pen?
Keyboard.
Audio or E-book?
Audio. There are some very long drives in Australia.
If you turn on the radio now, what station is playing?
One of the ABC networks. Either ABC Radio National (educated talk) or Triple J (alternative music)
And finally, your writing beverage of choice?
Espresso coffee. An essential.
Questions ©Bonnie Burke-Patel and Anneli Meeder; Responses ©Chris Hammer, author photo ©Chris Hammer
