"The Broken Shore" is a crime novel by Peter Temple that follows the story of Detective Sergeant Joe Cashin. After a traumatic incident, Cashin returns to his hometown, a coastal area in Victoria, Australia, to recover. However, he soon becomes embroiled in a complex murder investigation that reveals deep-seated tensions within the community. The novel explores themes of violence, justice, and the impact of the past on the present. As Cashin delves into the case, he uncovers secrets that challenge his understanding of morality and loyalty, ultimately leading to a gripping and thought-provoking conclusion.