Deep Water (Corris novel)

Deep Water is the fourth novel in the Cliff Hardy series written by Australian crime fiction author Peter Corris. Published in 1985, it continues the adventures of Cliff Hardy, a Sydney-based private investigator known for his hard-boiled style and penchant for getting into trouble.

The novel's plot revolves around Hardy being hired by a wealthy businessman to investigate the disappearance of his estranged daughter. The investigation takes Hardy into the murky world of Sydney's underworld, involving drug trafficking, gambling debts, and potentially, murder. He navigates through various levels of society, encountering corrupt police officers, ruthless criminals, and desperate individuals all while trying to uncover the truth behind the young woman's disappearance.

Like other Cliff Hardy novels, Deep Water is characterized by its gritty realism, fast-paced narrative, and sharp, cynical dialogue. The book offers a glimpse into the social and political landscape of 1980s Sydney, exploring themes of corruption, family dysfunction, and the dark side of wealth and power. Deep Water is a typical representation of Corris's style, showcasing his skill at crafting engaging crime stories with a strong sense of place and character.