Our top book picks this week: Putin and three decades of tumult in Russia

The Invention of Russia by Arkady Ostrovsky

In 1985, Mikhail Gorbachev launched perestroika, reforms that would lead to the break-up of the Soviet Union and, it was hoped, democracy. Thirty years later, Vladimir Putin has the country in an iron grip and freedoms are curtailed. Ostrovsky looks at three decades of tumult. (Atlantic, September 17)

Young Orson by Patrick McGilligan

Orson Welles’s early years are the subject of many myths. But here, McGilligan separates fact from fiction and looks at his early exploits, from starring on a Dublin stage as a teenager to bullfighting in Spain. The book also looks at the making of his classic, Citizen Kane. (Harper, September 27)

The Rift: A New Africa Breaks Free by Alex Perry

Coverage of Africa has long been dominated by war, fleeing refugees and despots. But, as Perry outlines, a new narrative has begun. He argues it is a continent on the move and will thrive if it can confront three issues: dictators, religious extremists and aid workers. (Weidenfeld, September 10)

Bombay Rains, Bombay Girls by Anirban Bose

Adityaman Bhatt moves to Mumbai to study medicine. What follows is a story of friendship, love and loss – all set against the struggles of study in a strange city. But just as he is beginning to cope, a tragedy forces Adi to reconsider what his purpose is. (HarperCollins, September 10)

The Diver’s Clothes Lie Empty by Vendela Vida

A woman who travels to Casablanca, Morocco, on a business trip is robbed of her passport and wallet. But she feels strangely empowered by the theft and realises she has the freedom to be anyone she chooses. Psychological thriller from Vida, who is married to Dave Eggers. (Atlantic, September 17)

The Death of Rex Nhongo by C B George

A taxi driver in Harare, Zimbabwe, living in poverty, finds a gun in his cab. The discovery will connect five couples who are trying to build a new life in the capital. This promises to be a look at life in the corrupt and bankrupt state and an unflinching look at the hypocrisy of the white expatriate set. (Quercus, September 3)