This week, Jeff Popple reviews three new Australian novels. More of Jeff’s reviews can be found on his blog: murdermayhemandlongdogs.com

After The Flood by Dave Warner

Fremantle, $32.99

In the increasingly crowded field of outback noir, few do it as well as Dave Warner. After The Floodis the third in his series about Detective Inspector Dan Clement and it takes us back to the convincingly portrayed outback town of Broome. Clement mainly finds his days filled with minor thefts and the occasional social justice protest, but that all changes when a man is found crucified in the bush. Suddenly, Clement and his team are tracking a killer with a deadly agenda. Gritty with well realised characters and a taut plot, this is an outstanding crime novel.

The Pride by Tony Park

Macmillan, $34.99

Tony Park is Australia’s premier adventure writer, and his African-based novels are always a highlight of the reading year. His latest, The Pride, once again tackles the emotional issue of wildlife poaching and the intersection between organised crime, corruption, and endangered wildlife. A violent encounter at a Cape Town beach sets ex-mercenary Sonja Kurtz and her daughter on a perilous path that takes them to Zimbabwe and the treacherous beaches of northern Mozambique as they battle a dangerous conspiracy. The story unfolds smoothly and there are some good twists, interesting characters, and plenty of excitement. Highly recommended.

The Bellbird River Country Choir by Sophie Green

Hachette, $32.99

Those after more heart-warming reading will enjoy Sophie Green’s new novel, The Bellbird River Country Choir. Set in a small NSW country town over the course of 1998, it follows the members of the local choir as they form bonds and escape from past problems. Central to the story is teacher and single mum, Alex, who has fled Sydney for a change of pace and the chance to reconnect with her young daughter. The choir gives her, and the other members, the opportunity for a new start. Full of great characters and topical themes, this is a very engaging and inspiring novel.