The investment around this alternative asset has caught the attention of older investors as the ATO’s SMSF numbers attest, reassured by the entry into the market of established asset managers such as Blackrock and Fidelity.
Labor failed to get its legislation to tax the earnings on SMSF portfolios exceeding $3 million pass the Senate in the previous Parliament. With the Greens likely to support this Bill, it is now set to become law, and advisers are scrambling to devise strategies for their clients.
Must-read crime novels beyond Sherlock Holmes and Agatha Christie
Few genres have the enduring appeal of crime and mystery fiction. From cosy village whodunits to gritty police procedurals, these stories challenge the mind, spark the imagination and deliver the satisfaction of seeing justice (usually) done.
It’s much more than just thrilling plots and clever twists. It invites us to exercise our powers of deduction, to explore human motivations and to immerse ourselves in different worlds. Whether it’s a genteel English village, a sunbaked Australian town or the bustling streets of a foreign city, every story offers a new journey.
For readers who have spent a lifetime gathering wisdom, experience and intuition, there’s something particularly satisfying about pitting your wits against a finely crafted mystery. Whether you prefer the classic clues of a Christie novel, the emotional depth of Louise Penny, or the fast-paced twists of modern thrillers, there’s never been a better time to dive into a new case.
So next time you’re looking for a good read, why not pick up one of these brilliant titles. A world of intrigue, insight and sheer entertainment awaits.
The No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency by Alexander McCall Smith: Set in Botswana, this charming series follows the wise and witty Precious Ramotswe who opens her country’s first female-run detective agency. With gentle humour and deep humanity, McCall Smith paints a picture of life’s small mysteries and triumphs. It’s perfect for readers who enjoy character-driven stories with a light touch, without the need for graphic violence or relentless tension.
The Dry by Jane Harper: Australian author Harper (pictured) burst on to the scene with The Dry, a compelling mystery set against the backdrop of a drought-stricken rural town. Federal agent Aaron Falk returns to his hometown for the funeral of a childhood friend but soon finds himself drawn into investigating old secrets that refuse to stay buried. Harper’s atmospheric writing captures the harsh beauty of the Australian landscape and the way small communities can be both protective and suffocating.
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson: For those who like their mysteries darker and more complex, Swedish author Stieg Larsson’s Millennium series is a standout. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo introduces journalist Mikael Blomkvist and hacker Lisbeth Salander as they delve into a decades-old disappearance in one of Sweden’s wealthiest families. The novel offers a mix of corporate intrigue, family secrets and social commentary, anchored by unforgettable characters.
Still Life by Louise Penny: The Chief Inspector Gamache series, starting with Still Life, has won readers around the world with its thoughtful plots and richly drawn settings. Set in the small village of Three Pines in Quebec, these novels offer the comfort of a traditional murder mystery while exploring deeper themes of morality, kindness and community. Penny’s writing style is warm and wise – perfect for readers looking for a more reflective take on crime fiction.
Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty: Another Australian success story, Moriarty weaves a compelling tale of suburban secrets and hidden tensions in Big Little Lies. Although it leans towards domestic drama, at its heart is a mystery – a suspicious death at a school trivia night. With sharp observations about modern life and a clever narrative structure, this novel proves that sometimes the biggest mysteries are hiding right in front of us.
The Reversal by Michael Connelly: For fans of courtroom drama and investigative grit, Michael Connelly’s The Reversal is a must. Featuring two of his most popular characters – defence attorney Mickey Haller and detective Harry Bosch – the novel centres around the retrial of a convicted child abductor. Connelly’s work stands out for its meticulous plotting and authentic depiction of the American legal system, offering readers a complex but deeply satisfying puzzle to unravel.
An Unsuitable Job for a Woman by P.D. James: One of the towering figures of British crime fiction, this novel introduces Cordelia Gray, a young private detective tasked with investigating the apparent suicide of a wealthy man’s son. James’ prose is elegant, and her exploration of class, gender and personal resilience gives this novel depth beyond its clever mystery plot.
The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman: A more recent sensation, The Thursday Murder Club is a delightful and humorous mystery set in a retirement village where a group of sharp-minded residents band together to solve a real murder. Richard Osman’s affection for his characters shines through, making this novel a joyous read. It’s a reminder that adventure – and a good puzzle – can be found at any stage of life.
