Murder in the Pacific series
In the heart of Vanuatu’s Tanna island, Hu Lee, the leader of an aid agency, meets a tragic end, fatally stabbed amidst a tsunami evacuation drill. With no witnesses, Sergeant George Long, visiting for the wedding of Constable Jayline Oli, is thrust into the role of lead investigator. Ordered by his superiors in Vila, he delves into a perplexing case that draws the attention of the Vanuatu Government, police force, and Chinese Embassy.
As George and partner Jayline Oli dig deeper, a web of debts owed to Lee surfaces, revealing a growing list of potential motives and suspects. Their path to the truth is fraught with obstacles. Hindered by uncooperative local law enforcement, an unexpected visit from a Chinese Embassy official, and the unsettling possibility of family involvement, George and Jayline must traverse Vanuatu’s rugged terrain – from the historic town of Lenakel to the summit of Mt Yasur, an active volcano.
As the investigation unfolds, George’s mixed heritage adds another layer of complexity, further entangling him in a case that becomes increasingly personal. While George’s own life unravels and with stunning landscapes as a backdrop, the duo races against time to untangle a web of secrets and deception …
Mary Murphy –
I loved both books.. I feel I am friends with George and Jayline and look forward very much to more of their adventures in beautiful Vanuatu ..
Rowan MacDonald –
I loved Murder in the Pacific: Ifira Point, so was excited to read this!
I was hooked from the beginning. People running from a “tsunami” will do that to you. The short chapters flew past, made it hard to put down. Just like the first, the setting of Vanuatu was one of the strongest characters. I learned plenty about this Pacific nation and the subtleties of life there. Matt’s knowledge and research shines through and adds so much authenticity. It made me want to watch the award-winning film, Tanna. I could vividly picture the surrounds and unique landscape.
It’s easy to imagine this adapted for TV. The likeable main characters ensured I always felt invested in the story. I enjoyed the humour too – whether it be Alfred’s determination to reach fourth gear, or Robson’s stress over his fruit intake. George Long is a well-rounded character that feels real and amusingly awkward at times. This case soon becomes personal for him, and as a result, we get to know him on a deeper level.
While Esther was a sympathetic victim in the first, it was difficult to find sympathy for murder victim, Hu Lee, this time around. As the investigation uncovered more about him, the list of suspects naturally grew.
With forty pages left, we still had a significant list of suspects remaining. Tension built, much like the volcano. Once again, Matt Francis effectively wrapped up the story and its different parts. It was a satisfactory ending with a development I didn’t see coming. It also makes you ponder the differences between “resolved” and “solved.”
If you enjoyed the first in this series, then you will love this. There’s an increased confidence across these pages. Particularly recommend this if you like Death in Paradise, or you’re after a murder mystery in a unique setting!