This week, Michael Popple recommends three outstanding crime fiction reads from some great authors. You can find more of Michael’s book reviews on his blog: unseenlibrary.com 

Glenrock by Lee Christine

Allen & Unwin, $32.99

When a judge is murdered in the Glenrock State Conservation Area in Newcastle, Detective Callan O’Connor attempts to determine who would want him dead and why. O’Connor’s investigation leads him into a tangled web, requiring him to determine how the judge was connected to a convicted forger in contact with O’Connor’s journalist girlfriend, and to two young lawyers who vanished the day of the murder.

This is a gripping Australian crime novel from the very talented Lee Christine. Featuring a clever mystery, with some great moving parts to it, Glenrock is a powerful and captivating read that is well worth checking out.

The Tainted Cup by Robert Jackson Bennett

Hodderscape, $34.99

On the borders of the besieged Empire, an Imperial officer has been violently killed by a tree that spontaneously erupted from his body. Called in to investigate is Ana Dolabra, an utterly eccentric but brilliant detective, and her magically enhanced assistant, Dinios Kol. Together, they uncover a deadly conspiracy that threatens to breach the Empire’s walls and let in the gigantic Leviathan.

This is an impressive novel that skilfully combines mystery with epic fantasy elements. Set around two amazing and entertaining protagonists, and featuring a complex case of magical mayhem, The Tainted Cup is an exceptional and highly distinctive read.

The Murder Inn by James Patterson and Candice Fox

Century, $34.99

Former cop Bill Robinson runs The Inn By The Sea, a small hotel with several unusual long-term guests. When an old friend dies, Robinson finds himself caught between a dangerous criminal and a vigilante widow, while another of the Inn’s residents is being targeted for the sins of their past. Can the Inn survive the barrage of killers about to rain down upon them?

The superstar team of James Patterson and Australian author Candice Fox return with this brilliant sequel to The Inn. An addictive, exciting, and deeply compelling thriller that you will not be able to put down.