Book talk: 2019’s freshest new novels

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Michael Popple reviews three of 2019’s freshest new novels to start the year with.

Flight Risk by Michael McGuire

Allen & Unwin, $29.99

Around the world, planes full of passengers are disappearing without a trace, leading to worldwide panic. Australian secret agent Ted Anderson is sent to investigate the disappearances and ends up in New York. Waiting for a plane home, he witnesses a pilot who Anderson is convinced will make his plane disappear next. With no other options, he does the unthinkable and gets on the pilot’s plane. This is an electrifying thriller from Australian author McGuire, featuring an interesting local perspective on the secret agent thriller. Extremely fast paced and a lot of fun, readers will love this exciting and absorbing read.

Shadow Captain by Alastair Reynolds

Gollancz, $32.99

Bosa Sennen was a legendary space pirate, whose terrifying career resulted in the destruction of hundreds of ships. Her unexpected downfall came at the hands of the Ness sisters, who defeated her and took her infamous ship for themselves. However, in addition to her ship, the sisters have also gained Bosa’s reputation, and now find themselves targeted by a fleet determined to wipe them out. This is the second entry in Reynold’s intriguing space-faringRevenger series. Featuring a clever story, great action and a unique universe, this fantastic book is well worth checking out.

Turning Point by Danielle Steel

Macmillan, $29.99

Four of the world’s best trauma surgeons from San Francisco are given an amazing opportunity, a four-week training program in Paris. Already forced to balance their complicated home lives with the challenging careers they love, this trip, and the terrible acts of violence they encounter, will alter their lives in ways they could never have imagined. From bestselling author Steel comes this emotional medical drama, which features an insightful examination of the medical profession and the stresses that doctors encounter. This is a powerful narrative about life, love and choices and is a compelling new read from this popular author.

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