Who Did It?

Super sleuths will be thrilled with these crime novels

WORDS ANNE LOH

CRIME-FIGHTING FICTION

We interview Lenny Bartulin about stepping into the world of the reluctant detective in his debut novel A Deadly Business.

Why did you choose the crime genre for your debut novel?
For many years, I tried to write a brilliant “literary” novel. Then one day, someone handed me a copy of The Big Sleep by Raymond Chandler. Kapow! I’ve had a smile on my face ever since.

What inspired the plot?
I was inspired by noir and pulp fiction from the 30s and 40s, and by film noir: tight twists, not too many characters, guns, bodies and a healthy splash of sex.

What are you reading at the moment?
I thought this year’s Pulitzer winner, The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao by Junot Diaz, was brilliant. In crime, I loved Savage Night by Jim Thompson.

Is there a bit of yourself in your character Jack Susko?
Jack likes nice clothes, good wine and would prefer not to have to go to work. But he hasn’t got any money. There’s not really much of me in him. I’ve got a wife and kid. And I’ve never driven a shady bigwig around town in a black Mercedes.

Did you think Jack Susko would go on to feature in a second book?
No. When I sat down to write another book, I realised there was still more to explore with the character. And my agent said: “Sequel, goddamn it!”

Care to give us a teaser?
The new Jack Susko mystery is rolling as we speak. Jack is trying to give up the cigarettes and his nerves are a little shot. He’s not particularly happy and shouldn’t be making any hasty decisions… but he does.

Any plans to retire as the owner of a second-hand bookstore?
Only if I have a million bucks in the bank.

A Deadly Business is published by Scribe Publications, AU$27.95, ISBN 9781921372025.

Book of the month

BRIGHT AIR

Master crime writer Barry Maitland returns with a cliffhanger of a mystery novel, his first stand-alone story after nine Brock and Colla crime novels. Set on Lord Howe Island, the last two living members of a climbing group realise the deaths of the other three members are not just a coincidence. Allen & Unwin, AU$32.99, ISBN 9781741148176.

Under the Magnifying Glass

SPLINTER

Australian crime author Michael MacConnell’s second book is full of the thrills, suspense and fast pace that made his debut book, Maelstrom, such a success. FBI Agent Sarah Reilly takes on a new case involving a kidnapping gone wrong. Hodder, AU$32.99, ISBN 9780733621987.

VOODOO DOLL

Leah Giarratano’s latest book centres on Sergeant Jill Jackson’s new assignment to the task force handling gang-related crime in south-western Sydney. Giarratano’s background in practical psychology shows in her edgy crime writing. Bantam Australia, AU$32.95, ISBN
9781863256148.

SHATTERED

Sydney private eye Gemma Lincoln not only has to solve a double homicide but also handle some hard-hitting questions about her personal life, not least whether she can be a single parent. Gabrielle Lord’s fourth Gemma Lincoln novel again reveals her ability to weave a compelling, well-rounded story. Hachette Australia, AU$19.99, ISBN 9780733623073.

HARD RAIN

Sydney-based ex-journo and ex-advertising whiz David Rollins continues with the international adventures of Special Agent Vin Cooper. This time, the trail spans the hotspots of Turkey, Iraq and Egypt while chasing a serial killer. Pan Macmillan Australia, AU$32.99, ISBN 9781405038287.

CURSE OF THE SPELLMANS

Author Lisa Lutz has created a rare laugh-out-loud caper featuring what must be the world’s most dysfunctional detecting family. Middle child Isabel “Izzy” Spellman has landed in gaol for the fourth time in three months – all because she’s too paranoid. For August release in paperback. Simon & Schuster Australia, AU$29.95, ISBN 9781921470028.