Do you have a soft spot for dogs? Then you might enjoy this story from Robert Crais. The story switches between the absolute hell of Afghanistan, and the slightly safer streets of downtown Los Angeles. A human death, authorities who try to minimise the personal tragedies which are the inevitable result of foreign intervention, and a compelling socio-political background which touches us all.

Shattered bodies, a faithful dog, fragmented memories, powers-that-be who keep a discreet distance from those who try and die in the country’s name – this is not a comfortable read. If you are of a sentimental nature, you should have a pack of tissues available. Our full review is here.