Unleash your super power

better finance

[ TIPS SO YOU CAN DO BETTER WITH YOUR MONEY ]

TRIM YOUR BILLS

Save at the checkout

Noticed prices going up? Try using these savvy shopper tools

COMPARE PRICES Download the Frugl Grocery app (facebook. com/FruglGroceries) to compare prices across supermarkets. The app has 45,000+ products and prices, plus discounts of up to 50%. Also look at CamelCamelCamel (camelcamelcamel.com), an Amazon price tracker that monitors millions of products and alerts you when prices drop.

GET CASH BACK Here ’ s a win-win situation. Download cashback apps and, each time you make a purchase with any retailers linked to the relevant sites, the platform gets a commission, part of which is returned to you as a cashback payment via PayPal or a bank account. Visit kickback.com.au, cashrewards.com.au or shopback.com.au.

MAKE AN E-LIST Never be tempted by impulse buys again. Stick to your shopping list by downloading WiseList (wiselist.app), which aims to help you find the cheapest products. Features include storage and tracking of upcoming bills, nutritional information, recipe searches and uploads with ingredients added to the shopping list.

WORDS OF WISDOM HE WHO BUYS WHAT HE DOES NOT NEED STEALSFROMHIMSELF

– Swedish proverb

This financial information is general in nature and does not take into consideration your personal circumstances. If you need advice, please seek out a licensed financial advise CLAIM YOUR REWARD At insurance renewal time, look at what money-saving rewards are on offer. Stella (stellainsurance.com.au), for one, has no-claim rewards for consecutive years (limit of 3 years) that policyholders drive safely with no at-fault claims* .

COMPARE PHONE PLANS Loyalty doesn ’t always pay. If you haven ’t compared phone plans in a while, you ’ re likely missing out on savings, so monitor plans on comparison sites such as finder.com.au.

LOOK TO THE STARS Shopping for a new appliance? Check the energy efficiency rating. The more stars, the more energy efficient it is and the more you save! An energyefficient heater, for one, can save big on your power bill.

2022 AWARDS

UNLEASH YOUR SUPER POWERS

A little thought on where your super goes can pay big dividends for animal welfare

Superannuation is taking a turn in the spotlight, as we all look at ways and means to shore up our financial future. But one thing you might not know is that your super can be used to safeguard not only your future, but those of animals as well. It’ s a message World Animal Protection is out to spread.

LACK OF AWARENESS In polling it did last year, World Animal Protection explored the links between super investment and animal welfare – the perception and the reality. Of those polled, almost 67% said they would ‘ most want’ their super fund to avoid investing in animal cruelty. And more than 90% said ‘ no ’ to knowingly investing in animal cruelty. But 66% didn ’t know, or were unsure on, the industries their fund primarily invested in. It’ s a lack of awareness ripe for change.

KNOWLEDGE IS power

Animal welfare, which sits under the umbrella of responsible investment, is a growing focus in super investment. We asked World Animal Protection country director Ben Pearson for more information.

QWith responsible

investment, what does it mean in terms

of animal welfare? A It means not investi in industries which ng contribute to animal cruelty. People should ensure they are using a super fund with clear public policies against investing in industries such as live animal export, intensive animal farming and inappropriate antibiotic use in animal agriculture. Q How much of a

priority for people is protection of animal welfare when it comes

to their super? A Our polling showed animal cruelty tops the list of things people want their super to avoid investing in, followed closely by human rights abuses.

QWould this result surprise people? A I don ’t think so. Animal welfare is a fast-growing area of concern. We see it in polls, surveys, and behaviours such as the uptake of higher-welfare products like cagefree eggs. QWould it shock people

to learn how many funds invest in practices such as cosmetic animal

testi A ng? It wou reflect ld, and that s the fact many people don ’t give their super much thought. But we know as people become more aware of where their super may be going, they will insist on better, more ethical options.

QWhat goals do you hope to achieve? A To raise awareness of how animals are impacted by the average person ’ s super choices. We hope to have Aussies asking funds to implement an animal welfare policy. As a minimum, we hope funds will eventually offer at least one product that screens out cruel industries like intensive animal farming.

[ WHERE DOES YOUR FUND STAND? ] World Animal Protection says 90% of major Aussie super funds don ’t have a public position on animal welfare, meaning your money could be funding practices like animal cosmetic testing. Not sure about yours? As a starter, its website lists more than 15 funds ’ stance on such standards as no intensive animal farming. There ’ s also a sample letter you can send your fund asking their position.

E M OT I O N S AT A G L A N C E Poll participants were asked how they would feel if they discovered that their superannuation fund was investing in animal cruelty. The results included Angry –44.2% Surprised–25% Deceived-20.8% Unconcerned–4.9%

FIGURE IT OUT

When it comes to the financial products where consumers most want to see responsible investments, RIAA research finds super atop the list at 70%. And when it comes to priorities around the top environmental and social issues they want to avoid, animal welfare was in the top three for every age demographic.

2 % . 44 25% 67% of Australians want their investments to avoid animal cruelty, above all else.

4 .9% 20. 8%

They were also asked if they would swap to an animal-friendly super 90% of funds don ’t have a public animal welfare position funds if theirs was investing in animal cruelty. Theresponse wasanemphati 62.1%yes c THE BIG ISSUES SUPER

funds listen to members. If members make it clear they want better animal welfare policies, funds will start to introduce them.

BEN PEARSON, WORLD ANIMAL PROTECTION

Here ’ s how animal welfare issues ranked in the polling in terms of which one would most convince people to switch funds.

Investmentinanimal testing–42.3% Investmentinintensive factoryfarming–30.2% Investmentinliveanimal exports–24.6%

4 2 .3% 30 .2 %

24. 6 %

REAPTHE REWARDS

Research by the Responsible Investment Association Australasia (RIAA) has shown super funds and investment funds which take an ethical and responsible approach have performed be er than their peers over one, three, five and 10-year time frames.

For more details visit worldanimal protection.org. au/super

better pets

[ COMBAT DOGGIE ODOUR AND FIND A PUPPY TRAINER ]

HELPYOUR PETLOOK AND SMELL GREAT WITH A GOOD GROOM – HAIR STYLING OPTIONAL!

Scent-sational pooch

Not overly fond of your furry friend’ s eww-de cologne? Bring these helpful hygiene tips into play for pawsome results

FOOD FOR HEALTH Feed your dog highquality food to improve his digestion, reduce gas and help maintain healthy teeth and gums. Consult a pet nutritionist for more tailored advice.

A GOOD WASH Bathe your dog every 4-6 weeks, depending on age, fur type, daily activities and any skin allergies that may require veterinary treatment. Try an aromatherapy shampoo – lavender, tea tree or citrus – to fight odours. Serotoninkc breed-specific shampoos (serotoninkc.com) and

Dog Wash by Dr Lisa (dogbydrlisa.com) are also good options. Keep in mind too many baths can dry out your dog ’ s skin. Speak to a groomer for further advice.

GROOM DAILY Brushing distributes natural oils through the coat, removes dead fur, prevents matting, increases circulation and limits shedding.

NEUTRALISE ODOURS Rub bicarbonate of soda into your dog ’ s fur to help neutralise odours. Check with your vet to ensure your pet is not allergic to it.

LAUNDER + SPRITZ Wash your dog ’ s bedding, coats, clothing, collar and lead frequently. And freshen up your pooch and belongings with a spritz of doggy cologne and a pet-friendly essential oil spray –lavender, lemongrass and tea tree essential oils will fight odour. Or, you can try Smiley Dog

(smileydog.com.au)

pet cologne natural and sweet-smelling scents, such as Chamomile & Lavender and Witch Hazel & Strawberry, to neutralise unpleasant odours, meaning you can then go back to happily cuddling your pooch! CHOOSE THE PAWFECT PUPPY PRESCHOOL

Unlike traditional dog-training classes, puppy preschools are designed for ages 8-16 weeks –a key developmental period. A good preschool will meet your pup ’ s vital need for exposure and socialisation in a clean, safe and supervised environment.

And it will help you become a responsible owner and build a strong foundation for your relationship with your pet. Here ’ s what your class will ideally offer. • A program run by a qualified positive trainer with education and experience in early canine behaviour, such as via the Delta Institute (deltainstitute.edu.au). • Classes in a restricted, clean and stress-free area with numbers limited to a maximum of six for adequate supervision. • The chance for your pup to socialise with a range of stimuli he will have to deal with in life –not forced interaction or specific behaviour but learning himself. • Training methods based on positive reinforcement –encouraging and rewarding the right behaviours, not punishing or

‘ correcting ’ undesirable ones. • Coverage of puppy issues, such as socialisation, house training, playing, biting and chewing, more than formal obedience. • Opportunities for the whole family to attend classes because training your puppy should be a shared and fun experience!

BETTER SHOPPING

PLANNING A TRIP TO THE SHOPS? HERE’S A ROUND-UP OF PRODUCTS YOU MAY LIKE TO CHECK OUT...

RUSTIC PLANTER

Northcote Pottery

’ s Timber Barrel, from $33.98, at Bunnings is a multi-purpose planter with lots of natural, rustic character. Perfect for small outdoor spaces, and hamper and even a cooler. northcotepottery.com

STYLE FOR LIFE

LivingStyles is an online furniture and homewares store for customers with a taste for the latest and best designs at great prices. Visit the online showroom for thousands of products from premium brands. livingstyles.com.au

BACKYARD HELPER

A must for any shed, the Cyclone Garden Spade, $39, is a general-purpose tool suitable for most gardening needs but ideal for digging in soil and clay. Available at Bunnings, Mitre10, Home Hardware and all other leading retailers. cyclone.com.au

GARDEN CRUISE

Set sail on the luxurious Queen Elizabeth for Cunard’ s special seven-night cruise in February 2023, featuring leading gardening experts Jamie Durie, Graham Ross and Angus Stewart. From $1699 per person/twin share. cunard.com/gardening NEW KNIT BOOK

With six sizes from baby to adult and a great variety of favourite beanie! Add Book of Beanies (114) to your pattern collection and you ’ll use it again and again. Call +61 3 ausyarnco.com.au

FURNITURE SALE

Check out the Le Forge warehouse clearance sale. It’ s cheaper than online with and includes factory seconds. Grab a bargain like the Arroll Side Table (base only) for $810, $1350. leforge.com.au

FOREVER LASTING

Give your landscape unique style with Australian-made bronze lighting, fountains and garden statuary. We have an extensive range of handmade pieces in a number with an unlimited guarantee of quality. architecturalheritage.net

START PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE!

With Real Life Insurance you can help protect your matter what life throws your way. Call 1300 817 395 today for more information. realinsurance.com.au

TOP PICKS

CHECK OUT OUR PICKS OF THE MONTH TO SEE WHAT'S NEW WHAT'S HOT AND WHAT'S IN STORE NOW!

LUSH PLANTS

The Tropic Gardener is a boutique garden centre in Kenmore Brisbane. We are known for our quality indoor plants, gorgeous pots and range of orchids. We also sell plants online and express post weekly Australia wide, except for quarantine states. thetropicgardener.com.au

HATE CLEANING YOUR OVEN?

For over 15 years Ovenu franchisees have been bringing home ovens back to showroom condition. See for yourself why they have almost ovenu.com.au

Before:

SPRING IS ALMOST HERE!

Now is a great time to be outdoors and at Ross Creek Tropicals we have loads of fruit trees ready for your garden, courtyard or balcony! You can order online to have apples, avocado, banana, berries, stone fruit, mango, and loads of rare and tropical fruiting trees delivered right to your door! rosscreektropicals.com.au SLEEP IN COMFORT

Discover Clementine Sleepwear and you can relax and unwind in pyjamas, nighties, dressing gowns and more fabrics. We consider your comfort to ensure a good night’ s sleep. clementinesleepwear.com.au

WINTER WARMERS SALE

Don ’t miss out! Le Forge Furniture & Decoration has reduced its round marble tabletops by 20% during July and August. Sizes from 50cm up to 110cm diameter. Current stock only. Available while stock lasts.

leforge.com.au

better stockists

[ PLANNING A TRIP TO THE SHOPS? HERE’S OUR ROUND-UP OF PRODUCTS ]

YOUR SHOPPING DIRECTORY

Adairs adairs.com.au

Aesthetics Rx

aestheticsrx.com.au Amart amart.com.au

ANL Australian Native Landscapes

anlscape.com.au Big W bigw.com.au Bunnings bunnings.com.au Clarins clarins.com.au Country Road countryroad.com.au

CurrentBody Skin

currentbody.com.au David Jones davidjones.com Dr.LeWinn ’ s drlewinns.com.au

Elizabeth Arden

elizabetharden.com.au Ella Baché ellabache.com.au ESK Skin Care eskcare.com

Flower Power

flowerpower.com.au Freedom freedom.com.au Harry Hartog harryhartog.com.au Hume Doors humedoors.com.au IKEA ikea.com.au IT Cosmetics adorebeauty.com.au Kiehl’ s kiehls.com.au Kmart kmart.com.au Koch & Co kochandco.com.au Leif Products leifproducts.com Medik8 medik8.com.au

Mesoestetic

advancedcosmeceuticals.com.au Peek A Blue peekablue.com.au Peter Thomas Roth sephora.com.au

Provincial Home Living

provincialhomeliving.com.au

Rodan + Fields

rodanandfields.com.au SkinCeuticals skinceuticals.com.au SkinMTX skinmtx.com.au Spotlight spotlightstores.com.au StriVectin priceline.com.au Suzanne Kaufman mecca.com.au

The Lost & Found Department

thelostandfounddepartment.com.au West Elm westelm.com.au

Wheel & Barrow

wheelandbarrow.com.au

SLEEP IN PEACE, P24

Shopping details Adairs

Mark Tuckey slat 3-shelf bedside tables, $399.99 each. Vintage washed linen check king quilt cover, $349.99. Vintage washed linen check European pillowcases, $79.99 each. Vintage washed linen standard pillowcase pair in Moss or Linen, $109.99. Belgian white check washed linen cushion, $89.99. Greenwich round boucle cushion in Ivory, $69.99. Madaya white linen cushion, $74.99. Malmo white linen throw, $119.99. Amart Killarney table lamp, $199. Premiere queen bed in Gloss Black, $269. Middlesbrough grey storage bench, $199. Natural Valdis 4-drawer tall chest, $649. Natural Madra 160 x 230cm jute rug with fringes, $249. Flower Power Aegean bowl 30cm, $69.99. Hanging plant Cissus Ellen Danica, $49.99. Freedom Hosley decorative bowl in Lightest Green, small, $29.95; large, $39.95. Harry Hartog For the Love of White by Chrissie Rucker and The Company, $55. Kerstin Thompson Architects by Leon Van Schaik, $59.99. Live Beautiful by Athena Calderone, $65. Style: The Art of Creating a Beautiful Home by Natalie Walton, $60. Australian Designers At Home by Jenny RoseInnes, $59.95. Spotlight Logan and Mason luxe high loft quilt, $70. Hotel Savoy collection king 500-thread-count sheet set in White, $200. Wheel and Barrow Vase urn in White, 30cm, $69.95; 41cm, $89.95. OUT OF THE BOX, P46

Shopping details Bunnings

Home Bazar black Soho Stools, $179. Country Road Tapas large salad bowl, $49.95. Tapas large round platter, $59.95. Theo timber long board, $119. Hotman salad bowl in Natural, $59.95. Dane ceramic vase in White, small, $29.95; large, $49.95. Preston large vase in Eucalyptus or Clear, $89.95. Preston small vase in Forest Green, $59.95. Royce medium vase in Black, $129. Theo juicer, $24.95. Theo mortar and pestle, $79.95. Theo timber spoons, $24.95 each. Cesa cube baskets, $39.95 each. David Jones Meeka tea towel set of 2, $29.95. Modern Pressure Cooking by Catherine Phipps, $50. Freedom Rogue Ruscus sprays 94cm in Brown, $19.95 each. West Elm Pure white large ceramic pot, $149.

Project supplies Bunnings

Kaboodle Kitchen cabinets, doors, drawers and panels in Licorice Twist. Kaboodle Kitchen benchtops in American Oak and hard wax oil. Kleenmaid 90cm 105L built-in oven, $1599. Kleenmaid 60cm induction cooktop, $974. Kleenmaid 60cm concealed rangehood, $599. Kleenmaid 60cm dishwasher, $879. Mondella Resonance double bowl sink, $495. Dorf Vixen retractable sink mixer, $368. 90 x 18 x 1.2m Tasmanian oak, $13.15. Lane ‘D’ Handle, $20.86. Carinya 185mm black quad bracket, $10.90. 50mm wood screws, $4.10/ pk15. 20mm wood screws, $6.98/pk100. 110mm x 20m bituminous flashing, $16.

R1.5 Earthwool insulation batts, $84/pack. 2400 x 1200 x 10mm plasterboard, $16. 75mm wood screws, $7.74/pk50. Asst window packers, $5.60/pk20. Stud adhesive, $16.40/kg. 30mm plasterboard screws, $4.30/ pk35. 400 x 18mm round timber panel, $5. 28.6mm x 1.2m Tasmanian oak dowel, $20. Adoored 300mm lazy susan bearing plate, $15. 40mm wood screws, $9.45/ pk100. Cabothane clear varnish, $34/500ml. Hume Doors Custom built bi-fold doors, $129.

LOVE YOUR LAUNDRY, P54

Shopping details Adairs

European Turkish cotton hand towel in Willow Earth or Kadikoy Earth, $24.99. Flinders bath sheet in Peach, $64.99. Savannah textured bath towel in Ginger, $23.99. Masai natural baskets, medium, $19.99; large, $29.99. Masai natural wash basket, $69.99. Eastside marble small tray, $54.99. Big W House & Home 4L glass cookie jars, $14 each. Country Road Dane medium ceramic vase, $49.95. IKEA Lohals flatwoven natural runner 80 x 250cm, $89. Leif Products Buddha wood hand wash, $35. Boronia hand balm, $59. Provincial Home Living Floreal Print 1 60 x 70cm, $199.95.

The Lost and Found

Department Scrubbing brush, $39.95. Dishwashing brush, $6.95.

Project supplies Bunnings

2400 x 595 x 16mm white melamine, $43.75. Selleys wet area silicone, $15.60/300g. Taskmaster 5mm shelf supports, $2.95/ pk20. 30mm wood screws, $4.10/pk30. 50mm wood screws, $4.10/pk15. 15mm wood screws, $4.28/pk45. 20mm angle brackets, $2.15/pk4. Rust-oleum chalked paint in Charcoal, $49.78/887ml. Feast Watson black hardwax, $19/125g. Digger methylated spirits, $4.95/1L. Timbermate wood filler, $10.29/250g.

SIDE GIG, P112

Project supplies Bunnings

40mm galvanised nails, $8.95/pk380. 90mm stainless steel easy-fit hinges, $16.91/pk2. 200mm galvanised tee hinges, $18.18/ pk2. 90 x 19mm x 5.7m merbau decking, $37.62.

SPLASH OUT!, P118

Project supplies Bunnings

Tuscan Path planters, varied sizes and colours, from $121. Scotts Osmocote Premium Potting Mix 50L bag, $13.86. HomeLeisure plastic bucket 3L, $3.80. Aquapro fountain kit, various sizes, from $14.89; water feature pump, various sizes, from $32.49. RapidMesh wire mesh panel 600 x 900mm, 50 x 50mm, $24.99; Selleys Knead It aqua epoxy putty 50g, $11.99; Tuscan Path 30-50mm pebbles 15kg bag, various colours, from $14.98. UNPLUG YOUR LAWNS, P122

Project supplies Bunnings

Grunt non-woven geo textile membrane drain mat fabric 1 x 10m, $39. Bastion 10mm blue metal 20kg bag, $9.60; river sand 20kg bag, $9.40. Garden Basics organic compost 25L bag, $3.98. Turf Growers Direct premium shade plus premium soft leaf buffalo 1sqm roll, $14.40.

ROCKS ARE FUNKY!, P126

Project supplies ANL

Sandstone, limestone granite or basalt boulders, from $105/tonne.

GET A WRIGGLE ROOM, P132

Project supplies Bunnings

Tumbleweed Can-O-Worms worm farm, $75. Worm Affair live organic worm starter pack, approx. 1000 worms, $49.90.

MIRROR, MIRROR ON THE WALL, P156

Shopping details Cabana

Jo ’ s Scalloped vase, $89.95. Quartz candle holder, small, $29.95; large, $39.95. Freedom Tesma table lamp, $159. Peek A Blue Large pink and purple barnacle cluster, $129.80. Premium nautilus shell 13 x 14.5cm, $99.

Project supplies Bunnings

Whites 50g natural raffia, $3.99. Everhang 10kg brass plated picture framing triangles, $5.10/pk8. Cooper & Co. 30cm round mirror tiles, $44.95/set of 2.

SOLVING THE PUZZLE, P160

Project supplies Bunnings

18 x 18mm x 2.4m Tasmanian oak, $15.80. 897 x 600 x 12mm ply, $33. 20 x 4mm x 2.4m Tassie oak coverstrip, $11.55. 1200 x 596 x 9mm ply, $30.75. 75 x 1.6mm notched spreader, $4.20. 12mm bullet head nails, $4.60/100g. Lane 172mm leather strap handle, $9.21. 50mm easy-fit hinges, $3.72/pk2. 915mm brass continuous hinge, $16.51. 5m Raven weatherstrip, $11.14. 30mm wood screws, $4.10/pk30. 40mm wood screws, $9.45/ pk100. 20mm wood screws, $6.98/pk100. Timbermate wood filler, $10.29/250g. Cabothane clear varnish, $34/500ml. Spotlight 3mm felt $19.80/m.

PRIVACY NOTICE

This issue of Better Homes and Gardens is published by Are Media Pty Limited (Are).

Are may use and disclose your information in accordance with our Privacy Policy, including to provide you with your requested products or services and to keep you informed of other Are publications, products, services and events. Our Privacy Policy is at aremedia.com.au/privacy/. It also sets out how you can access or correct your personal information and lodge a complaint.

We disclose your personal information offshore to our joint venture partners, service providers and agents. It is not practicable to specify all countries to which we may disclose your personal information. The countries your personal information will be disclosed to include New Zealand, the USA and the Philippines.

In addition, this issue may contain Reader Offers, being offers, competitions or surveys. Reader Offers may require you to provide personal information to enter or to take part. Personal information collected for Reader Offers may be disclosed by us to service providers assisting Are in the conduct of the Reader Offer, and to other organisations providing special prizes or offers that are part of the Reader Offer. An opt-out choice is provided with a Reader Offer. Unless you exercise that opt-out choice, personal information collected for Reader Offers may also be disclosed by us to other organisations for use by them to inform you about other products, services or events or to give to other organisations that may use this information for this purpose.

If you require further information, please contact Are ’ s Privacy Officer either by email at privacyofficer@aremedia.com.au or mail at Privacy Officer, Are Media Pty Limited, 54-58 Park Street, Sydney NSW 2000.

better books

[ THE NEWEST AND BEST NOVELS TO DIVE INTO ]

DARK GRITTY TENSE ATMOSPHERIC

I LOVED BLACK RIVER

CANDICE FOX, AUTHOR

Black River

Matthew Spencer (Allen & Unwin, $32.99)

A long, hot summer in Sydney. A young woman found murdered in the deserted grounds of an elite boarding school. A serial killer preying on victims along the banks of the Parramatta River. A city on edge. Adam Bowman, a battling journalist, might be the only person who can uncover the links between the school murder and the ‘Blue Moon Killer ’ . But he will have to go into the darkest places of his childhood to piece together the clues. Detective Sergeant Rose Riley is part of the taskforce trying to find the killer. Adam ’ s past might turn out to be her biggest trump card – or it may just bring the whole investigation crashing down and put her own life in danger.

THE COLONY

Audrey Magee (Allen & Unwin, $29.99)

Mr Lloyd has chosen to travel to the island by boat without engine – the authentic experience. Unknown to him, Mr Masson will also soon arrive. Both will strive to encapsulate the truth of this place – one in paintings, the other with his faithful rendition of its speech, a language he hopes to preserve. But the people who live on this rock have their own views on what is to be recorded, and given in return. Each of the women and men joins forces to question what they value and desire. At the end of the summer, as the visitors leave, there will be a reckoning. THE ANGRY WOMEN’S CHOIR

Meg Bignell (Penguin Random House, $32.99)

Freycinet Barnes has the ideal existence. With beautiful kids, a successful husband and a well-ordered schedule, it’ s a life so full she simply doesn ’t fit. When she is thrown into the West Moonah Women ’ s Choir, she finds music, laughter, friendship and a humming wellspring of rage. Frey learns voices can move mountains, fury can be kind and life can do with a bit of ruining.

NIGHTWORK

Nora Roberts (Hachette, $32.99)

When he was nine, and his mother had her first deadly dance with cancer, Harry became a thief to find food and pay the mortgage. When she finally succumbs to the disease, Harry leaves Chicago, but can ’t quite leave all his past behind. Harry lives a quiet life – he can ’t afford to a ract a ention or get a ached – until he meets Miranda. But just when he sees a chance to be happy, his old life comes back to haunt him when dangerous Carter LaPorte appears and Harry is forced to run.

STAY AWAKE

Megan Goldin (Penguin Random House, $32.99)

Liv Reese wakes up in the back of a taxi, confused and disoriented. She realises she ’ s lost her keys, but when she knocks, it’ s not her roommate who answers, but a stranger. Where is Amy? Why won ’t her boyfriend answer his phone? And, more importantly, why is she in possession of a wad of cash and a large knife streaked with blood? The only things offering any sense of direction are the scrawled messages on her hands and arms – place names, numbers she doesn ’t recognise and the words ‘STAY AWAKE’ .