This week, Jeff Popple reviews three books about war, memories and travelling with your mother. More of Jeff’s reviews can be found on his blog: murdermayhemandlongdogs.com

Looking at Women Looking at War by Victoria Amelina

William Collins, $34.99

When Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022, Victoria Amelina was busy writing a novel and raising her son. The war, however, changed everything. Overnight she became a chronicler of the horrors inflicted upon her country and joined many other women in the resistance. She became a popular figure as she photographed the damage and recorded the testimonies of atrocity survivors. She died on 1 July 2023, aged thirty-seven, following a missile strike on a restaurant. Victoria left behind this well-written and moving personal account of the war, which has become more poignant and compelling in light of recent shameful actions by America. Highly recommended.

Signs of Damage by Diana Reid

Ultimo Press, $34.99

Sixteen years ago, Cass went missing while a guest at the Kelly’s family holiday in the South of France. She was found several hours later with no apparent injuries. Now at the funeral for the head of the Kelly family, Cass collapses, and days later a further tragedy occurs. As the past and present collide, and old secrets come to light, questions are raised about what really happened on that holiday. Seamlessly sliding between the two time periods, Diana Reid’s Signs of Damage is an engaging and intelligent novel that explores interesting themes around memory, trauma and literary tropes.

Best, First and Last by Amy Matthews

Simon & Schuster, $32.99

Providing a lighter tone, and some well-placed dollops of humour, is Amy Matthews’ Best, First and Last. Twenty-five-year-old Heather Russo is miserable and stuck in a rut. When her grandmother offers to take Heather and her mother, Sandy, on a trip to walk the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, she agrees, after all, what could go wrong? As the three generations hike their way to the top, family secrets are revealed, emotions unleashed, and the possibility of romance beckons. Amy is a charming and amusing author and Best, First and Last is a fun read that will appeal to all generations.