This week, Michael Popple reviews three fantastic recent releases from well-established authors. You can find more of Michael’s book reviews on his blog: unseenlibrary.com

Call of Empire by Peter Watt

Macmillan, $34.99

For decades, the Steele family of Australia have fought for the Queen to maintain the British Empire. Now, in 1885, Colonel Ian Steele is enjoying the quiet life and expanding his business empire with his family. However, the Empire calls again and soon both his sons will find themselves drawn into Australia’s earliest wars, where tragedy awaits around every corner. Peter Watt continues to maintain his status as Australia’s premier author of historical adventure with this latest exciting novel. Following a calamity prone family through war, misfortune, and life, Call of Empire is a fast-paced and compelling read that highlights fascinating pieces of Australian history.

The Boys from Biloxi by John Grisham

Hodder & Stoughton, $34.99

Welcome to Biloxi, the pleasure capital of Mississippi. A hub for gambling, drinking, corruption and all other vices, Biloxi has long stood outside the law. However, the entire future of Biloxi will now be decided in the court as two rival families battle for its soul. But can former childhood friends Keith Rudy and Hugh Malco live up to their father’s legacies as they go to war? Legendary author John Grisham presents an epic and impressive multi-generational crime fiction narrative that proves quite addictive. Featuring highly entertaining court battles and the development of two distinctive families, this is an outstanding read.

The Orphans by Fiona McIntosh

Michael Joseph, $32.99

Fleur Appleby and Tom Catchlove are orphans, having both lost their parents while young. Both grow up in different worlds, with Fleur learning her adopted father’s trade as an undertaker, while Tom becomes a wool classer in the South Australian outback. When chance brings them together years after their first meeting, they find their chaotic lives thrust together amidst a dangerous murder investigation in 1930s Adelaide. This is another powerful and historically rich novel from Fiona McIntosh, which focuses on two tragedy afflicted protagonists with unique trades. Deeply moving, this is an amazing and memorable Australian historical drama.