LEGACY by Chris Hammer

Read an exclusive snippet of the new novel from Australia's leading voice in outback thrillers

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'We've had a bomb threat. Nothing to worry about, I'm sure, but I'm going to have to ask everyone to exit quickly and make your way across the road while we check it out.”

There’s a collective groan from the throng. The lawyer Nick Poulos yells above the muttering,

People shuffle out, conversation stepping up a notch. Something new to talk about, jokes about Martin being a trouble magnet. He’s relieved to see Mandy has Liam and his friend in tow. "I'm going to get them some food," she says. "I'll see you back here."

"No problem." Martin gives Liam a kiss as the seven-year-old squirms.

People wander towards the pub. Martin spies Jack Goffing across the road from the hall, talking with Ivan and Nell.

"Bit of excitement," says Martin, joining them.

"Lucky you lot are here."

"Glad to be of service," says Nell, but there is something in her manner that unsettles him. She's tense, on guard.

"What is it?" Martin asks. "What do you know?"