Deception Creek

A returned criminal, a cult-like family and cybercrime all clash against the backdrop of the Flinders Ranges in this thrilling new rural suspense novel from the best-selling Voice of the Outback.


'If you're looking for a gripping rural crime thriller, look no further.' - Better Reading


Emma Cameron, a recently divorced farmer and a local in Barker, runs Deception Creek, the farm that three generations of her family have owned before her. Every day Emma pushes herself hard on the land, hoping to make ten-year-old memories of a terrible car accident disappear. And now there are more recent nightmares of an ex-husband who refuses to understand how much the farm means to Emma.


When Joel Hammond is released from jail and heads home to Barker, Detective Dave Burrows and Senior Constable Jack Higgins are on high alert. Joel has a long and sorry history with many of the townsfolk and they are not keen to see him home to stay.


Not all of the Barker locals want to see Joel run out of town, though. Some even harbour doubts about Joel's conviction. The town finds itself split down the middle, families pitted against each other with devastating outcomes.


Readers say:


'Cybercrime, financial fraud, murder and more...This page-turning book will keep readers both enthralled and engaged.' - Blue Wolf Reviews


'Mysterious, hard hitting, conflicting and compelling, Deception Creek is another fantastic rural novel from Fleur McDonald, the undisputed Voice of the Outback.' - Mrs B's Book Reviews


'Suspense and romance in an authentic rural Australian setting with a truly unexpected ending.' - Book'd Out


'An outstanding, tense suspense novel...Well-crafted characters, and of course my favourites - Dave Burrows and Jack Higgins - lead the way in this phenomenal read which I highly recommend.' - Reading, Writing and Riesling


'I simply can't get enough of Detective Dave Burrows! This series is one I will definitely keep on my shelf to read again.' - The Burgeoning Bookshelf


'A binge-worthy rural crime story full of intrigue, secrets and mystery.' - Instagram reviewer


'Fleur McDonald is up there on my favourites list - I always look forward to her next book!' - Goodreads reviewer


'Loved the multiple storylines, the mystery elements and the wonderfully engaging characters in this read! Highly recommended!' - Goodreads reviewer


'This one had me turning the pages, I could barely put it down, Fleur McDonald has again put together a brilliant story with twists and turns that kept me enthralled.' - Goodreads reviewer


'Fleur McDonald knows how to add mystery into every element of the story, along with everyday farming techniques to give her books a true Australian flavour.' - Goodreads reviewer


'Fleur's lovable leading man Dave is in his element here with another police investigation to unravel all wrapped up in an outback adventure to engage in.' - Goodreads reviewer


'It was a great feeling to return to Dave, Jack and company. This is another illustrious outback thriller from hallowed Australian author, Fleur McDonald.' - Goodreads reviewer


'I was caught up in the drama and suspense as the detectives unravel shocking truths that have been hidden for decades.' - Goodreads review


'I love that you can just pick up a Fleur McDonald and disappear - it's a novel that tackles a great deal of serious themes, but you are just in such safe hands.' - Goodreads review


'Pick up a copy of Deception Creek and reacquaint yourself with old friends, or meet a band of new ones. You won't be disappointed.' - Goodreads review


'A phenomenal read, certainly not for the faint hearted! I honestly can't wait to see what Dave and co have to deal with next!!' - Goodreads review


'Purchased Deception Creek this morning, binge read until I finished it. This book has it all. Can't wait until my next visit to Barker!' - Goodreads reviewer


'This is one of those books that you can't wait to finish to find out what happens but then wish it didn't have to end.' - Goodreads reviewer