This week, Jeff Popple reviews three enjoyable novels about sisters, serial killers and a haunted mountain. More of Jeff’s reviews can be found on his blog: murdermayhemandlongdogs.com

The Sisters of Serendib by Ayesha Inoon

HQ, $32.99

The Sisters of Serendib by Canberra author Ayesha Inoon is a moving story about family and the bonds of sisterhood. When a mother dies on an asylum boat fleeing war-torn Sri Lanka, her three daughters are separated and scattered across Australia. Years later, the eldest, Janu, still remembers the home she left behind and the sisters she lost. Gradually, she discovers clues to her sisters’ new identities and locations, and begins the quest to reunite them, but can something broken ever be fully repaired? A poignant and timely novel about the human cost of international turmoil and the strength of family.

The Death Row Club by V. A. Vazquez

Simon & Schuster, $34.99

Family also features in V. A. Vazquez’s fresh debut crime novel, The Death Row Club. Nicola Fischer is spiralling. Her father was just convicted of murdering five young women, including her best friend, and her local American community has turned against her. When she is invited to an exclusive, off-grid annual gathering for people like her, the adult children of serial killers, she eagerly accepts. It is the chance to mix with people in the same unwanted situation as her. However, when an unexpected guest turns up and a murder occurs, she finds herself trapped in the wilderness with no way out. Good escapist fun.

Devil Mountain by Inessa Jackson

Affirm Press, $34.99

When Detective Sergeant Anastasia Brown is sent to investigate a grisly murder in a small New South Wales town, she welcomes the chance to run from heartbreak and humiliation. However, this is no ordinary murder. The body of a popular doctor has been found on the mountain, chained and burned, with arcane ­symbols carved into the soles of his feet. With a town full of suspects, and rumours of ghosts and witches, Ana has her work cut out, especially when her recent past catches up with her. Easy flowing, with some nice twists and a good pace, Devil Mountain is an enjoyable winter read.