Hello Readers,
Thank you LibraryThing and Murray Bailey for
the chance to read this book for free in exchange for an honest review
I didn't realise in advance that this is part of a series
(ooops) but I didn’t think it made that much difference within the narrative of
this book. This is the second book that focuses on Ash Carter, it was easy to
read as a stand-alone story, I did find myself wondering whether I was missing
something vital about Ash though but that might just be me being nosey, so I am
currently waiting for the first book (Singapore 52) to arrive by post. Then
I’ll probably read them back to back and this little issue I have will possibly
disappear.
The book takes places in Singapore during 1952 (British
colonial times during the Malayan emergency). The story focuses on Ash Carter an
ex-military policeman who is now working for the government secretary
responsible for internal security. When a body is discovered on a causeway
between Singapore and Malaya, he is assigned to investigate the death: does it
represent another drug-war punishment or is something more sinister going on?
I love that it was
clear that Bailey has done a lot of research into the time period and
geographical social norms and locations have been used brilliantly. I found the
descriptions of this restless period in history created a vivid yet distinctive
picture of the struggles which were being faced by the distinctive social
groups involved. The geographical norms I am referring too are the conflicting
interests of the wealthy and powerful, the colonial forces, the military, as
well as those intent on pursuing a range of criminal activities, are well
represented and fit into the story wonderfully.
Without giving to much away it is clear that nothing during
this investigation, is going to be straightforward. There are links within
organised crime and the military and powerful people intent on shutting down
the investigation.
Books in the series
Singapore 52
Singapore Girl
Singapore Boxer
Murray Bailey was lovely enough to send me a surprise two more books that I look forward to reading
L x
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