Jeff Popple reviews three new books to start your April reading with. More of Jeff’s reviews can be found on his blog: murdermayhemandlongdogs.com

Her Time to Shine by Fiona McCallum

HQ, $32.99

Fiona McCallum is one of Australia’s favourite authors, and Her Time to Shine is another inspiring tale about finding strength and overcoming obstacles.

Continuing the story from Trick of The Light, this novel finds almost 50-year-old, Erica adjusting to her new life as a widow in the small country town of Melrose, some 300 kilometres from Adelaide. Although she is enjoying immersing herself in the local community, and forming new relationships, she finds that she is being plagued by fresh bouts of anxiety. Putting aside her concerns, she has to step up and take on a new challenge. A heart-warming tale of self-discovery. 

Twelve Secrets by Robert Gold

Sphere, $32.99

Effects of the past also feature strongly in Robert Gold’s outstanding solo debut Twelve Secrets. Twenty years ago Ben Harper’s older brother and his friend were killed in horrific circumstances by two teenage girl classmates. The murders have long cast a shadow over Ben’s life, but gradually he has moved on and is now a successful journalist. A fresh murder, however, upturns all that he thought he knew about that day and sets him on a quest to uncover long-held secrets. This smoothly written crime novel will keep you eagerly turning the pages to find out what happens next. A thoroughly enjoyable read.

The Devil’s Bargain by Stella Rimington

Bloomsbury, $29.99

Stella Rimington has made a smooth transition from her real-life role as the head of MI5, to writing about fictional spies. Her novels have drawn good praise from around the world and are noteworthy for their convincing spy craft and topical plots. The Devil’s Bargain revolves around a deep cover Russian spy who has used his business successes to gain selection as an MP for Liverpool. However, he is recognised by the policeman who decades before allowed him to illegally enter Britain, and a deadly cat and mouse game erupts between the two. A tense and convincing spy thriller.

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