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Mole Creek
A hellish war. A deadly secret. Fifty years on, in a small Tasmanian town, the truth unfolds and the killing begins again …
Betrayal cannot be buried forever.
In the tiny Tasmanian town of Mole Creek, retired Australian cop and Vietnam veteran Pete McAuslan has retreated to his fishing cabin to write his memoirs. In Sydney, his grandson, journalist and trashy true crime author Xander, learns that Pete has taken his own life, begging forgiveness in a suicide note.
Arriving in Mole Creek in the aftermath of Pete’s death, Xander discovers that his grandfather’s laptop is missing. He begins to suspect that something is wrong, refusing to accept the facts as presented. With the local police not interested in investigating an apparently open-and-shut suicide, Xander sets about uncovering the truth of what happened to his grandfather.
In the process, he discovers long-buried secrets from Pete’s time serving in the Vietnam war: secrets that Pete has withheld from him and everyone else for fifty years; secrets that powerful people would prefer to stay buried. Ensnared in a web of betrayals that began a generation before, Xander finds himself on the hitlist of a clinically violent assassin. Now he must race to identify the connection between the seemingly unremarkable death of an old Australian soldier and the imminent reactivation of the most powerful and potentially destructive ‘sleeper’ in the history of espionage – before the truth catches up with him.
Betrayal cannot be buried forever.
In the tiny Tasmanian town of Mole Creek, retired Australian cop and Vietnam veteran Pete McAuslan has retreated to his fishing cabin to write his memoirs. In Sydney, his grandson, journalist and trashy true crime author Xander, learns that Pete has taken his own life, begging forgiveness in a suicide note.
Arriving in Mole Creek in the aftermath of Pete’s death, Xander discovers that his grandfather’s laptop is missing. He begins to suspect that something is wrong, refusing to accept the facts as presented. With the local police not interested in investigating an apparently open-and-shut suicide, Xander sets about uncovering the truth of what happened to his grandfather.
In the process, he discovers long-buried secrets from Pete’s time serving in the Vietnam war: secrets that Pete has withheld from him and everyone else for fifty years; secrets that powerful people would prefer to stay buried. Ensnared in a web of betrayals that began a generation before, Xander finds himself on the hitlist of a clinically violent assassin. Now he must race to identify the connection between the seemingly unremarkable death of an old Australian soldier and the imminent reactivation of the most powerful and potentially destructive ‘sleeper’ in the history of espionage – before the truth catches up with him.
352 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 1, 2023
40 people are currently reading
256 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
September 9, 2023
I first visited the Tasmanian town of Mole Creek as a kid. Spent the time wondering if I would get lost in the caves, never to be seen again. Only fitting that Mole Creek would read like a similar rabbit warren of twists and turns, that kept me guessing until the very end.
“This is Tassie tiger country, all right, even down to the labels on the local Cascade lager.”
Journalist, Xander McAuslan, receives bad news. His Vietnam veteran (and retired policeman) grandfather, Pete, has taken his own life while writing memoirs in his Mole Creek cabin. Xander leaves Sydney for Tasmania, and begins to suspect there's more to it - perhaps his grandfather was murdered. Long-held secrets and shadowy figures reveal themselves. Betrayal, murder, and espionage fill the pages.
“He’s aware that paranoia is starting to win its battle with logic and common sense, arriving in his thoughts disguised as both.”
Mole Creek is told in dual narratives. One set in present-day Tasmania, as Xander seeks answers in an increasingly dangerous environment. The other set in Vietnam during his grandfather’s time there - inevitably linking up with the present. This latter timeline was slower-paced, and I found it hard to connect with. I was gripped by the present-day story, only to find it briefly disappear as it shifted to Vietnam. It broke what was otherwise great pacing.
James Dunbar delivers strong dialogue. I enjoyed the back and forth between characters, and the injection of humour, which contrast darker elements. It was fascinating to see deadly espionage set in Tasmania. James made good use of the atmospheric landscape. I couldn't put the book down from Derwent Bridge onwards. My favourite character was Lorenzo, a Vietnam vet survivalist who lived off-grid with his dogs, Crosby and Stills. It was also fun to see action in my hometown of Launceston– who thought those streets could be filled with such intrigue?
“As soon as Xander crosses the road he becomes aware of someone walking in the same direction at the same pace on the other side of the street.”
At one point, a character asks Xander to give him bullet points on everything. "Way too complicated for that," he responds. It made me laugh, as I couldn’t agree more. Like many espionage novels, it was highly complex, and serious brain exercise. James did a great job to juggle these moving parts, however, and provide a satisfactory conclusion. The finale alluded to a sequel, which has me intrigued as to what happens next.
Mole Creek is a wild ride that blends espionage and action well, and utilises its Tasmanian setting for maximum effect. Sign me up for the next instalment!
Shout-out to my uncle for this unexpected buddy read! I see what you mean about the foxes.
Many thanks to Echo Publishing for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
“This is Tassie tiger country, all right, even down to the labels on the local Cascade lager.”
Journalist, Xander McAuslan, receives bad news. His Vietnam veteran (and retired policeman) grandfather, Pete, has taken his own life while writing memoirs in his Mole Creek cabin. Xander leaves Sydney for Tasmania, and begins to suspect there's more to it - perhaps his grandfather was murdered. Long-held secrets and shadowy figures reveal themselves. Betrayal, murder, and espionage fill the pages.
“He’s aware that paranoia is starting to win its battle with logic and common sense, arriving in his thoughts disguised as both.”
Mole Creek is told in dual narratives. One set in present-day Tasmania, as Xander seeks answers in an increasingly dangerous environment. The other set in Vietnam during his grandfather’s time there - inevitably linking up with the present. This latter timeline was slower-paced, and I found it hard to connect with. I was gripped by the present-day story, only to find it briefly disappear as it shifted to Vietnam. It broke what was otherwise great pacing.
James Dunbar delivers strong dialogue. I enjoyed the back and forth between characters, and the injection of humour, which contrast darker elements. It was fascinating to see deadly espionage set in Tasmania. James made good use of the atmospheric landscape. I couldn't put the book down from Derwent Bridge onwards. My favourite character was Lorenzo, a Vietnam vet survivalist who lived off-grid with his dogs, Crosby and Stills. It was also fun to see action in my hometown of Launceston– who thought those streets could be filled with such intrigue?
“As soon as Xander crosses the road he becomes aware of someone walking in the same direction at the same pace on the other side of the street.”
At one point, a character asks Xander to give him bullet points on everything. "Way too complicated for that," he responds. It made me laugh, as I couldn’t agree more. Like many espionage novels, it was highly complex, and serious brain exercise. James did a great job to juggle these moving parts, however, and provide a satisfactory conclusion. The finale alluded to a sequel, which has me intrigued as to what happens next.
Mole Creek is a wild ride that blends espionage and action well, and utilises its Tasmanian setting for maximum effect. Sign me up for the next instalment!
Shout-out to my uncle for this unexpected buddy read! I see what you mean about the foxes.
Many thanks to Echo Publishing for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 31, 2023
Mole Creek is a tension-filled debut crime thriller by James Dunbar (note: he has also written a couple of crime caper novels under the name Jimmy Thomson) and it charges off with a murder mystery that introduces elements of international espionage and political intrigue while never really going all out and fully immersing you in either of those sub-genres. Instead, the main focus starts on the death of old Pete MacAuslan in Mole Creek.
Xander MacAuslan is a journalist who also writes true crime stories and manages to get up the nose of dangerous underworld figures. Death threats are not uncommon thanks to his willingness to call out organised crime. He’s based in Sydney when he gets news that his grandfather, a retired police officer and Vietnam veteran living in Mole Creek, Tasmania has committed suicide.
By the time he reaches his grandfather’s home he has had numerous indications that Pete’s death is anything but suicide but convincing the local police is proving impossible. A dodgy suicide note, and getting attacked a couple of times by men with eastern European accents are merely the start of the anomalies that shout out at him. Additionally, his grandfather’s computer is missing as are all his backups. Before long, so are Xander’s.
The story is told in dual timeframes: the present with Xander investigating his grandfather’s death; the past, during the Vietnam War 50 years earlier and the events that took place there that may have something to do with Pete’s death all these years later. Clearly, there are events that take place in Vietnam that are important and have ramifications, it’s a matter of paying attention and figuring out where the clues make themselves known to us.
With the help of police family liaison officer Althea Burgess, Xander starts to run his own investigation into his grandfather’s death. The problem is, he’s hampered by roadblocks at every turn. His motel room is ransacked, people who provide promising information suddenly die and he abruptly loses his job.
Mile Creek is an action thriller that builds in intensity as it unfolds. Early moments of violent confrontation promise a Sword of Damocles-style danger hanging over Xander’s head. It’s the classic suspense scenario that’s exacerbated by some unforgivable acts of betrayal which, when they were thrown in, they ensured I was completely thrown off-balance.
The story moves along briskly, which was fine for the most part. I had trouble keeping up at times, particularly when it felt as though a few leaps in reasoning were made that were slightly tenuous. I found myself forced to do some back-tracking to try to figure out how things held together. In the end, Dunbar managed to hold the plot together, narrowly avoiding it from ripping to shreds.
Xander MacAuslan is a journalist who also writes true crime stories and manages to get up the nose of dangerous underworld figures. Death threats are not uncommon thanks to his willingness to call out organised crime. He’s based in Sydney when he gets news that his grandfather, a retired police officer and Vietnam veteran living in Mole Creek, Tasmania has committed suicide.
By the time he reaches his grandfather’s home he has had numerous indications that Pete’s death is anything but suicide but convincing the local police is proving impossible. A dodgy suicide note, and getting attacked a couple of times by men with eastern European accents are merely the start of the anomalies that shout out at him. Additionally, his grandfather’s computer is missing as are all his backups. Before long, so are Xander’s.
The story is told in dual timeframes: the present with Xander investigating his grandfather’s death; the past, during the Vietnam War 50 years earlier and the events that took place there that may have something to do with Pete’s death all these years later. Clearly, there are events that take place in Vietnam that are important and have ramifications, it’s a matter of paying attention and figuring out where the clues make themselves known to us.
With the help of police family liaison officer Althea Burgess, Xander starts to run his own investigation into his grandfather’s death. The problem is, he’s hampered by roadblocks at every turn. His motel room is ransacked, people who provide promising information suddenly die and he abruptly loses his job.
Mile Creek is an action thriller that builds in intensity as it unfolds. Early moments of violent confrontation promise a Sword of Damocles-style danger hanging over Xander’s head. It’s the classic suspense scenario that’s exacerbated by some unforgivable acts of betrayal which, when they were thrown in, they ensured I was completely thrown off-balance.
The story moves along briskly, which was fine for the most part. I had trouble keeping up at times, particularly when it felt as though a few leaps in reasoning were made that were slightly tenuous. I found myself forced to do some back-tracking to try to figure out how things held together. In the end, Dunbar managed to hold the plot together, narrowly avoiding it from ripping to shreds.
August 31, 2023
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Mole Creek is an edgy murder mystery. The story alternates between present day Tasmania and Vietnam 50 years ago, during the Vietnam war.
Journalist and crime writer Xander McAuslan hears that his grandfather, a retired cop and Vietnam Veteran, has taken his own life in the small town of Mole Creek in Tasmania. A place he and his grandfather had spent many holidays together.
Feeling as though he failed his grandfather, Xander travels to Tasmania to ease his own mind and to find out what happened.
Mole Creek is a fast paced read. Xander has a few enemies of his own and they seem to have followed him across the Strait. It's only his cunning and skill that get him out of a few deadly situations and his dry humour and wisecracks that get him into those situations.
I couldn't connect with the scenes in Vietnam, feeling they were unnecessarily taking me away from the present-day action.
Mole Creek is a complex mystery with a few red herrings thrown in. I was shocked at the unexpected ending and I certainly didn't see it coming.
The richly described Tasmanian landscape is a treat within itself; evocative, dangerous and remote.
James Dunbar has written a compelling crime novel with Mole Creek, which has me looking forward to his next offering.
Mole Creek is an edgy murder mystery. The story alternates between present day Tasmania and Vietnam 50 years ago, during the Vietnam war.
Journalist and crime writer Xander McAuslan hears that his grandfather, a retired cop and Vietnam Veteran, has taken his own life in the small town of Mole Creek in Tasmania. A place he and his grandfather had spent many holidays together.
Feeling as though he failed his grandfather, Xander travels to Tasmania to ease his own mind and to find out what happened.
Mole Creek is a fast paced read. Xander has a few enemies of his own and they seem to have followed him across the Strait. It's only his cunning and skill that get him out of a few deadly situations and his dry humour and wisecracks that get him into those situations.
I couldn't connect with the scenes in Vietnam, feeling they were unnecessarily taking me away from the present-day action.
Mole Creek is a complex mystery with a few red herrings thrown in. I was shocked at the unexpected ending and I certainly didn't see it coming.
The richly described Tasmanian landscape is a treat within itself; evocative, dangerous and remote.
James Dunbar has written a compelling crime novel with Mole Creek, which has me looking forward to his next offering.
October 13, 2023
I was drawn to this book by the title and the fact I know Mole Creek and Tasmania. So I can right off the bat say I love the setting and locations of this book and think it fits really well in this story. This is really a story in two parts and about two people, their connection and the secrets from the past. That is what makes it an interesting and very readable book.
The story centres around Pete McAuslan and his Vietnam war story (from the past) and Xander McAuslan (Pete's Grandson) in the present. When Pete suddenly dies (or is he murdered) Xander becomes embroiled in a game of cat and mouse and digs up stories from the past, from the war and secrets as yet untold. This story built somewhat slowly (but not too slow) and quickly became a thrilling and intriguing read. There was action and suspense, secrets and lies and it was so well written it kept me reading from start to finish.
I found it to be a great book of suspense and thrills book and one that kept me on the edge of my seat. And the ending... Well it sounds like a 'To be continued' type of ending to me. Can't wait to see what comes next. This is certainly 4 1/2 stars from me.
Mole Creek
James Dunbar
Echo Publishing
The story centres around Pete McAuslan and his Vietnam war story (from the past) and Xander McAuslan (Pete's Grandson) in the present. When Pete suddenly dies (or is he murdered) Xander becomes embroiled in a game of cat and mouse and digs up stories from the past, from the war and secrets as yet untold. This story built somewhat slowly (but not too slow) and quickly became a thrilling and intriguing read. There was action and suspense, secrets and lies and it was so well written it kept me reading from start to finish.
I found it to be a great book of suspense and thrills book and one that kept me on the edge of my seat. And the ending... Well it sounds like a 'To be continued' type of ending to me. Can't wait to see what comes next. This is certainly 4 1/2 stars from me.
Mole Creek
James Dunbar
Echo Publishing
December 31, 2023
Mole Creek is a split time period thriller, in which Sydney-based journalist Xander McAuslan travels to Tasmania to inquire into the circumstances of his grandfather Pete's sudden death at his isolated cottage in Mole Creek. It becomes evident that Pete's apparent suicide may in fact be more complicated than local police are willing to admit, with links to Pete's shadowy service as a Provost (Military Police Officer) during the Vietnam War.
The narrative switches back and forth between Xander's quest in the present and Pete's experiences in 1970 while responsible for policing Australian military personnel in the town of Vung Tau, used by the Australian Defence Force as a R&C (Rest and Convalescence) station. Pete develops a relationship with bar proprietor Trang Minh, known as Lucy, and forms close alliances with his American opposite number, Donnie Carrick, and an Australian sapper (combat engineer) nicknamed Lorenzo.
Xander is assigned a family liaison officer, Althea Burgess, who accompanies and assists him in the aftermath of Pete's death, despite being under significant pressure from the police hierarchy to tie the matter up as a suicide as quickly as possible. Xander is attacked by a ruthless Russian, realises he's being tailed by a mysterious Vietnamese woman, and struggles to work out who he can trust as he closes in on the 50-year-old wartime secret that his grandfather wanted to pass to him prior to his death. The threads of information left behind by Pete lead him into the central Tasmanian wilderness, southwest of the the village of Derwent Bridge, and later to Canberra in search of archived war records.
I found Mole Creek to be an engaging read, more espionage thriller than murder mystery, featuring well-developed settings predominantly within central-northern Tasmania. At times I felt that there was just a bit too much going on and the large cast of supporting characters were occasionally hard to keep track of, especially in the dual-timeline format. I found the historical sections of the book, in which the author explores complex intrigues going on behind the frontline of the Vietnam war, particularly fascinating.
The narrative switches back and forth between Xander's quest in the present and Pete's experiences in 1970 while responsible for policing Australian military personnel in the town of Vung Tau, used by the Australian Defence Force as a R&C (Rest and Convalescence) station. Pete develops a relationship with bar proprietor Trang Minh, known as Lucy, and forms close alliances with his American opposite number, Donnie Carrick, and an Australian sapper (combat engineer) nicknamed Lorenzo.
Xander is assigned a family liaison officer, Althea Burgess, who accompanies and assists him in the aftermath of Pete's death, despite being under significant pressure from the police hierarchy to tie the matter up as a suicide as quickly as possible. Xander is attacked by a ruthless Russian, realises he's being tailed by a mysterious Vietnamese woman, and struggles to work out who he can trust as he closes in on the 50-year-old wartime secret that his grandfather wanted to pass to him prior to his death. The threads of information left behind by Pete lead him into the central Tasmanian wilderness, southwest of the the village of Derwent Bridge, and later to Canberra in search of archived war records.
I found Mole Creek to be an engaging read, more espionage thriller than murder mystery, featuring well-developed settings predominantly within central-northern Tasmania. At times I felt that there was just a bit too much going on and the large cast of supporting characters were occasionally hard to keep track of, especially in the dual-timeline format. I found the historical sections of the book, in which the author explores complex intrigues going on behind the frontline of the Vietnam war, particularly fascinating.
December 10, 2023
3.5 stars
The first book published under the name James Dunbar, the same author has published under the name of Jimmy Thomson.
I get the sense Dunbar wanted to write something similar to a Robert Goddard story, where an everyday person, in this case a journalist called Xander, find himself in the midst of a decades old mystery and conspiracy that is far-reaching and dangerous. But where this book differs is Dunbar hasn't shaken off the inclination to inject some elements that feel more "caper" than serious. It's most notable in some of the characters Xander meets along the way. It's not new, and I don't necessarily think it a bad thing, but I'm not convinced it was the intention with this book. It felt as if the book were fighting with itself in some way, wanting to be serious but also struggling to hold off that need to be outlandish. If you compare this to the Killers of a Certain Age, it doesn't match that level of outlandish. So, I guess this book feels stuck in the middle of two styles, and I wonder which in the more intended.
But I did enjoy the story overall. I thought Xander to be a convincing enough protagonist. I thought the mystery was well-structured and had the twists and surprises needed to keep me wanting more. I very much enjoyed the setting of the Tasmanian wilderness. The pace is spot on for a book like this, more in the present day narrative. The past narrative I found distracting more than anything else. It didn't flow well for me, and made me wonder if there could be a way to remove it altogether. But I guess it gives the reader more details on Xander's grandfather, Pete, and some of the other historical players.
I get the impression there will be a sequel. If there is, it is something I would read.
The first book published under the name James Dunbar, the same author has published under the name of Jimmy Thomson.
I get the sense Dunbar wanted to write something similar to a Robert Goddard story, where an everyday person, in this case a journalist called Xander, find himself in the midst of a decades old mystery and conspiracy that is far-reaching and dangerous. But where this book differs is Dunbar hasn't shaken off the inclination to inject some elements that feel more "caper" than serious. It's most notable in some of the characters Xander meets along the way. It's not new, and I don't necessarily think it a bad thing, but I'm not convinced it was the intention with this book. It felt as if the book were fighting with itself in some way, wanting to be serious but also struggling to hold off that need to be outlandish. If you compare this to the Killers of a Certain Age, it doesn't match that level of outlandish. So, I guess this book feels stuck in the middle of two styles, and I wonder which in the more intended.
But I did enjoy the story overall. I thought Xander to be a convincing enough protagonist. I thought the mystery was well-structured and had the twists and surprises needed to keep me wanting more. I very much enjoyed the setting of the Tasmanian wilderness. The pace is spot on for a book like this, more in the present day narrative. The past narrative I found distracting more than anything else. It didn't flow well for me, and made me wonder if there could be a way to remove it altogether. But I guess it gives the reader more details on Xander's grandfather, Pete, and some of the other historical players.
I get the impression there will be a sequel. If there is, it is something I would read.
June 14, 2025
Although a compelling read and an intricately convoluted plot, my enjoyment of the book was spoilt by small but annoying details. I have never been a fan of ‘present tense ‘ narrative and though probably used to differentiate the ‘then ‘ and ‘now’ of the story, it always srikes me as clumsy.
However, what really grated were the conflicting geographical references with reference to Mole Creek, it’s caves and the surrounding wilderness. Having been a resident of Mole Creek for 30 years, the local references are both tantalising and frustrating. An early reference to shooting foxes which do not inhabit Tasmania, calling petrol stations by their American appellation and placing Lorenzo’s hide out in the Walls of Jerusalem when, by its location it is actually Cradle Mt Lake Sinclair National Park are just a few of the niggles. The climatic impalement of the villain in King Solomon’s Cave is both improbable and impossible on a number of levels.
I know this is pedantic stuff but if you’re going to choose a real location, it would be nice to be accurate in its depiction. End of rant
However, what really grated were the conflicting geographical references with reference to Mole Creek, it’s caves and the surrounding wilderness. Having been a resident of Mole Creek for 30 years, the local references are both tantalising and frustrating. An early reference to shooting foxes which do not inhabit Tasmania, calling petrol stations by their American appellation and placing Lorenzo’s hide out in the Walls of Jerusalem when, by its location it is actually Cradle Mt Lake Sinclair National Park are just a few of the niggles. The climatic impalement of the villain in King Solomon’s Cave is both improbable and impossible on a number of levels.
I know this is pedantic stuff but if you’re going to choose a real location, it would be nice to be accurate in its depiction. End of rant
November 21, 2023
THERE ARE NO FOXES IN TASMANIA…if you’re going to write a book name checking an obscure Tasmanian town do your homework…also…Cascade is NOT the local brew in the north of our fine state it is Boags. This could have been a much better book with a bit of fine tuning…
October 5, 2023
Implausible scenarios
April 21, 2025
In the tiny Tasmanian town of Mole Creek, retired Australian cop and Vietnam veteran Pete McAuslan has retreated to his fishing cabin to write his memoirs. In Sydney, his grandson, journalist and trashy true crime author Xander, learns that Pete has taken his own life, with a suicide note. Xander suspects that something is wrong.
I had expected a serious crime fiction from the synopsis of this book, but this turned out to be a funny, action-packed crime fiction with twists and turns that I couldn’t guess, and I wasn’t disappointed at all.
There were so many hilarious moments that just made me chuckle. I listened to the audiobook, and the narrator did a great job delivering the vibe of the book. The ‘poor’ narrator also had to do so many accents, as the characters were so diverse 😄 and unique.
I loved that the plot built up to an ending that felt like an epic action movie. I’d recommend anyone to jump in blind to this for maximum fun (as I did). I can’t wait to read the sequel!
See my bookstagram review.
I had expected a serious crime fiction from the synopsis of this book, but this turned out to be a funny, action-packed crime fiction with twists and turns that I couldn’t guess, and I wasn’t disappointed at all.
There were so many hilarious moments that just made me chuckle. I listened to the audiobook, and the narrator did a great job delivering the vibe of the book. The ‘poor’ narrator also had to do so many accents, as the characters were so diverse 😄 and unique.
I loved that the plot built up to an ending that felt like an epic action movie. I’d recommend anyone to jump in blind to this for maximum fun (as I did). I can’t wait to read the sequel!
See my bookstagram review.
February 24, 2025
4/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Vibes: Gritty, Time Split, Aussie Noir
- - -
The clever cookies at Echo Publishing seem to have a knack for always picking a winner when it comes to the books they kindly send me and Mole Creek was no exception!
In a nutshell this was true blue Aussie crime drama at its finest. It gave me James O’Loghlin / Gavin Strawhan / Iain Ryan and Garry Disher vibes - gritty storytelling, rural settings, corruption everywhere and a whole lot of dead bodies, like a LOT!
The story jumps between timelines of modern day crime investigation and flashbacks to the main character’s grandfather during the Vietnam War. I liked the mix which added depth to the mystery although some of the war era wording left me a bit lost.
While some lingo went over my head, I did appreciate the sharp dry sense of humour that James weaved in so well.
If you enjoy your debut novels with a side of investigative journalism, gritty crime and dead bodies galore, Mole Creek needs to be on your radar!
Vibes: Gritty, Time Split, Aussie Noir
- - -
The clever cookies at Echo Publishing seem to have a knack for always picking a winner when it comes to the books they kindly send me and Mole Creek was no exception!
In a nutshell this was true blue Aussie crime drama at its finest. It gave me James O’Loghlin / Gavin Strawhan / Iain Ryan and Garry Disher vibes - gritty storytelling, rural settings, corruption everywhere and a whole lot of dead bodies, like a LOT!
The story jumps between timelines of modern day crime investigation and flashbacks to the main character’s grandfather during the Vietnam War. I liked the mix which added depth to the mystery although some of the war era wording left me a bit lost.
While some lingo went over my head, I did appreciate the sharp dry sense of humour that James weaved in so well.
If you enjoy your debut novels with a side of investigative journalism, gritty crime and dead bodies galore, Mole Creek needs to be on your radar!
April 21, 2024
Read it in a day, so that’s always a good sign. This follows an investigative journalist from Sydney looking into his retired police officer grandfather’s death dismissed as suicide. The story takes you back to the grandfather’s time as an MP in Vietnam.
I often find flashing back and forth from present and past can get hard to follow but in this case the author revealed enough each time to keep things moving forward.
To quibble, perhaps one might argue the female characters were a bit underdeveloped.
But I would certainly read crime fiction from Dunbar again.
I often find flashing back and forth from present and past can get hard to follow but in this case the author revealed enough each time to keep things moving forward.
To quibble, perhaps one might argue the female characters were a bit underdeveloped.
But I would certainly read crime fiction from Dunbar again.
March 17, 2025
Told from dual timelines and points of view Mole Creek is a great action and espionage read. It twists and turns making it hard to know who to trust. Xander, however, is a character you can’t quite decide if you like or loathe. He is cocky and quite arrogant, but also has a softer side you see glimpses of. After that ending though, it would be good to see him feature again in a sequel to try and figure that out!
Thank you Echo publishing for a gifted copy to honestly review.
Thank you Echo publishing for a gifted copy to honestly review.
September 13, 2024
Was great reading a book, set where we live. Great to see the pubs, cafes, caves, Walls, and even the bus get a mention. And yes, we do have our share of veterans - but we don't shoot foxes. A bit OTT with the number of people 'mysteriously dying', even for Tassie standards. And leaving it open for the sequel - Xander must have 9 lives!
December 23, 2024
I wanted to like it, but it was exhausting.
January 27, 2025
Mole Creek is not far from where I live, and as I enjoy Tasmanian crime fiction I thought I'd give this a try.
What to Expect
Expect a fast-paced thriller, taking place in modern day Australia and during the Vietnam War. Most of the novel is from the point of view of the protagonist, Xander McAuslan, a crime journalist, while some chapters are told from his grandfather's days in 1970. When Xander refuses to accept that his grandfather has taken his own life, affairs grow increasingly odd and violent. Xander keeps digging, without a an apparent bottom to how deep the secrets go.
What I liked
It's an enjoyable thriller, mixing personal drama and international affairs. The pace it swift, the characters engaging, and the mystery intriguing.
What to be aware of
The protagonist at times doesn't seem like the sharpest tool in the shed, and one has to question his actions and choices. There are also a couple of movie tropes around tech and guns (like gun silencers that make guns emit only a soft noise), which I personally dislike. One also has to wonder about some of the gap years, which don't quite add up (Xander's grandfather being in his early seventies, ie he was unmarried in his early twenties in 1970, and yet having a 34 year old grandson).
Felix's and Jack's Reviews
Jack, like me, despises the "corrupt/inefficient police" trope. I think he's a bit over-sensitive, what with being a policeman himself. That said, after getting over the tropes and hiccoughs in the small details, he thought the story was well told, with accessible prose and a fair clip to events. Certainly more a thriller than a police procedural, about an average guy getting caught in big events.
Summary
Despite it's occasional stumble, it's a very enjoyable read. If you like crime thrillers and espionage intrigue, this book is for you.
Enjoying the reviews, but wondering who the heck are those Felix and Jack fellows? Glad you asked! Felix is the protagonist of the Togas, Daggers, and Magic series, an historical-fantasy blend of a paranormal detective on the background of ancient Rome, and Jack is the police detective running the Unusual Crimes Squad, dealing in occult crimes in modern-day Australia.
Assaph Mehr, author of Murder In Absentia: A story of Togas, Daggers, and Magic - for lovers of Ancient Rome, Murder Mysteries, and Urban Fantasy.
What to Expect
Expect a fast-paced thriller, taking place in modern day Australia and during the Vietnam War. Most of the novel is from the point of view of the protagonist, Xander McAuslan, a crime journalist, while some chapters are told from his grandfather's days in 1970. When Xander refuses to accept that his grandfather has taken his own life, affairs grow increasingly odd and violent. Xander keeps digging, without a an apparent bottom to how deep the secrets go.
What I liked
It's an enjoyable thriller, mixing personal drama and international affairs. The pace it swift, the characters engaging, and the mystery intriguing.
What to be aware of
The protagonist at times doesn't seem like the sharpest tool in the shed, and one has to question his actions and choices. There are also a couple of movie tropes around tech and guns (like gun silencers that make guns emit only a soft noise), which I personally dislike. One also has to wonder about some of the gap years, which don't quite add up (Xander's grandfather being in his early seventies, ie he was unmarried in his early twenties in 1970, and yet having a 34 year old grandson).
Felix's and Jack's Reviews
Jack, like me, despises the "corrupt/inefficient police" trope. I think he's a bit over-sensitive, what with being a policeman himself. That said, after getting over the tropes and hiccoughs in the small details, he thought the story was well told, with accessible prose and a fair clip to events. Certainly more a thriller than a police procedural, about an average guy getting caught in big events.
Summary
Despite it's occasional stumble, it's a very enjoyable read. If you like crime thrillers and espionage intrigue, this book is for you.
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Enjoying the reviews, but wondering who the heck are those Felix and Jack fellows? Glad you asked! Felix is the protagonist of the Togas, Daggers, and Magic series, an historical-fantasy blend of a paranormal detective on the background of ancient Rome, and Jack is the police detective running the Unusual Crimes Squad, dealing in occult crimes in modern-day Australia.
Assaph Mehr, author of Murder In Absentia: A story of Togas, Daggers, and Magic - for lovers of Ancient Rome, Murder Mysteries, and Urban Fantasy.
May 2, 2025
“Mole Creek” is a twisty Australian thriller, novelist James Dunbar’s first venture into the genre. He’s produced a novel that will please many readers.
The novel crosses two timelines, modern Australia and Vietnam in the 1960s during what we call the Vietnam War. Both are evoked differently and strongly, and readers will have no difficulty seeing them as different times and places.
I found the novel a little slow to get started. That’s in part because Dunbar has chosen a narrative style which I found a little distancing; I had some initial difficulty in feeling involved. That’s a personal reaction to the style, so not everyone will feel the same. And once the novel got up some momentum, it was well paced and kept me reading.
Xander was the only character I strongly engaged with, but to some extent I think that was Dunbar’s intent. In keeping other characters a little too shallow for the reader to empathise with, he makes it all the harder for us to determine who’s on which side.
Recent events in the US may cause some readers to feel that a central pillar of the unwound plot no longer has credibility – it certainly made me snort cynically! This is an unfortunate coincidence of timing. It still makes sense in the context of the novel.
The ending of the novel may divide readers. As is common in the genre, multiple twists are piled on, in both the final action scenes and the quieter final unwinding and closing. There are a lot, and some might feel that there’s one too many, pushing the plot a little too far from credibility.
I’m on the fence; not every twist was credible to me, and the sheer number of twists saved till close to the end made it harder to follow the explanations. On the other hand, you don’t want things to be too simple. A book that makes you think isn’t a bad thing.
So, read it and see whether you’re on board with the ending or whether it should have one twist less! Overall I enjoyed this and would recommend it to readers who like crime or spy thrillers.
If you enjoyed this review, please visit www.otherdreamsotherlives.home.blog to read more.
An edited version of this review first appeared on www.beautyandlace.net as part of their bookclub.
The novel crosses two timelines, modern Australia and Vietnam in the 1960s during what we call the Vietnam War. Both are evoked differently and strongly, and readers will have no difficulty seeing them as different times and places.
I found the novel a little slow to get started. That’s in part because Dunbar has chosen a narrative style which I found a little distancing; I had some initial difficulty in feeling involved. That’s a personal reaction to the style, so not everyone will feel the same. And once the novel got up some momentum, it was well paced and kept me reading.
Xander was the only character I strongly engaged with, but to some extent I think that was Dunbar’s intent. In keeping other characters a little too shallow for the reader to empathise with, he makes it all the harder for us to determine who’s on which side.
Recent events in the US may cause some readers to feel that a central pillar of the unwound plot no longer has credibility – it certainly made me snort cynically! This is an unfortunate coincidence of timing. It still makes sense in the context of the novel.
The ending of the novel may divide readers. As is common in the genre, multiple twists are piled on, in both the final action scenes and the quieter final unwinding and closing. There are a lot, and some might feel that there’s one too many, pushing the plot a little too far from credibility.
I’m on the fence; not every twist was credible to me, and the sheer number of twists saved till close to the end made it harder to follow the explanations. On the other hand, you don’t want things to be too simple. A book that makes you think isn’t a bad thing.
So, read it and see whether you’re on board with the ending or whether it should have one twist less! Overall I enjoyed this and would recommend it to readers who like crime or spy thrillers.
If you enjoyed this review, please visit www.otherdreamsotherlives.home.blog to read more.
An edited version of this review first appeared on www.beautyandlace.net as part of their bookclub.
August 4, 2023
‘Coincidence is the last resort of the logic-impaired.’
Pete McAuslan, retired police officer and Vietnam veteran, had retreated to his cabin near the small Tasmanian town of Mole Creek to write his memoir. His grandson, journalist Xander McAuslan who is based in Sydney, receives news that Pete has taken his own life. He has left a suicide note, seeking forgiveness.
Xander travels to Launceston, where the local police collect him from the airport, express their condolences and take him to Mole Creek. When Xander cannot find his grandfather’s laptop in the cabin, he starts questioning the version of events he has been given. Althea Burgess is the police officer assigned to liaise with Xander and it becomes clear that the police are not interested in investigating what they believe to be a clearcut case of suicide, but Xander persists. Xander is challenged at every step: his motel room is searched; a stranger claims a connection while another threatens him.
The story shifts between Xander in the present and events involving Pete in Vietnam fifty years earlier. Xander starts digging and while uncovering some secrets from the past also places himself and others in danger. Someone is keen to keep a secret hidden and not afraid to murder anyone who gets in their way.
Espionage and political intrigue, accompanied by mysterious strangers, secrets and violence: there’s plenty of action. While the novel held my attentions from the beginning, a couple of twists towards the end seemed a little too incredible. Still, it’s good to have some really evil villains to detest.
‘Occasional truths are hooks on which to hang your fabrications.’
Note: My thanks to NetGalley and Echo Publishing for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book for review purposes.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
Pete McAuslan, retired police officer and Vietnam veteran, had retreated to his cabin near the small Tasmanian town of Mole Creek to write his memoir. His grandson, journalist Xander McAuslan who is based in Sydney, receives news that Pete has taken his own life. He has left a suicide note, seeking forgiveness.
Xander travels to Launceston, where the local police collect him from the airport, express their condolences and take him to Mole Creek. When Xander cannot find his grandfather’s laptop in the cabin, he starts questioning the version of events he has been given. Althea Burgess is the police officer assigned to liaise with Xander and it becomes clear that the police are not interested in investigating what they believe to be a clearcut case of suicide, but Xander persists. Xander is challenged at every step: his motel room is searched; a stranger claims a connection while another threatens him.
The story shifts between Xander in the present and events involving Pete in Vietnam fifty years earlier. Xander starts digging and while uncovering some secrets from the past also places himself and others in danger. Someone is keen to keep a secret hidden and not afraid to murder anyone who gets in their way.
Espionage and political intrigue, accompanied by mysterious strangers, secrets and violence: there’s plenty of action. While the novel held my attentions from the beginning, a couple of twists towards the end seemed a little too incredible. Still, it’s good to have some really evil villains to detest.
‘Occasional truths are hooks on which to hang your fabrications.’
Note: My thanks to NetGalley and Echo Publishing for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book for review purposes.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
September 1, 2023
✍️ In the Tasmanian town of Mole Creek, retired Police Officer Pete is slowing down and writing his memoir. In Sydney, his Nephew Xander, author and crime journalist has just found out that Pete has taken his life following a suicide note. Xander decides to investigate what really happened and suspects that something is very wrong and will get to the bottom of it. In the process he finds out things that he didn't know about Pete from secrets during his time in the Vietnam War that could cause a lot of controversy and damage.
From the start of this book I was kept in a Curious State of Intrigue and Secrecy which held me CAPTIVATED till the end. What a Striking Story. I couldn't put it down. Recommend picking up a copy! FIVE STAR reading!
The Storyline was Satisfyingly well written and plotted as I was transported to the past and present narratives from the Vietnam War of 1960 to current day Tasmania. A fantastic meshing between timelines that blended into the story to create a narrative that was both compelling and engaging to the reader.
The more I read the more Invested and Engrossed I was in the multiple POV's, sharp dialogue, and the suspenseful nature of the characters. A very exceptional story.
I appreciated the Author's knowledge of the subject of war and the history behind it.
There were so many moments throughout the story where I noticed discrepancies between certain characters and their roles and I couldn't help but wonder and speculate on what was going to come next. Masterful storytelling which had a brilliant way of keeping me in utter shock and suspense right till the end.
From the start of this book I was kept in a Curious State of Intrigue and Secrecy which held me CAPTIVATED till the end. What a Striking Story. I couldn't put it down. Recommend picking up a copy! FIVE STAR reading!
The Storyline was Satisfyingly well written and plotted as I was transported to the past and present narratives from the Vietnam War of 1960 to current day Tasmania. A fantastic meshing between timelines that blended into the story to create a narrative that was both compelling and engaging to the reader.
The more I read the more Invested and Engrossed I was in the multiple POV's, sharp dialogue, and the suspenseful nature of the characters. A very exceptional story.
I appreciated the Author's knowledge of the subject of war and the history behind it.
There were so many moments throughout the story where I noticed discrepancies between certain characters and their roles and I couldn't help but wonder and speculate on what was going to come next. Masterful storytelling which had a brilliant way of keeping me in utter shock and suspense right till the end.
September 12, 2023
Okay, I’ll go to 3.5/5. A clever novel in many ways, written by an author who obviously has a lot of life experience.
Pete McAuslan, a Vietnam vet is found dead in a cottage in Tasmania. Xander, his grandson and closest relative, investigates and finds Pete was likely murdered. Xander is an author, journalist and handy fighter, even though only 5 feet 6 inches in the old money. The story alternates between the current day and 1969/1970 in Vietnam. Before he is offed, Pete is writing his memoirs and this disturbs some nasty people - namely Russians who have a major secret to keep hidden. The resourceful Xander manages to finally put the conspiracy together, amid much bloodshed in poor old Tasmania.
Whew, a lot happens in this 343 page novel, most of it to our Xander. I like crime novels and also espionage books, but am less enamoured with fantasy. Alas, much of this book is just that. And in my second paragraph above, I have not told you even half of the shenanigans that take place. I did, however, like the little asides and smart comments from Pete and Xander. Well done. Easy reading all round, but you certainly needed to suspend your disbelief much of the time.
Pete McAuslan, a Vietnam vet is found dead in a cottage in Tasmania. Xander, his grandson and closest relative, investigates and finds Pete was likely murdered. Xander is an author, journalist and handy fighter, even though only 5 feet 6 inches in the old money. The story alternates between the current day and 1969/1970 in Vietnam. Before he is offed, Pete is writing his memoirs and this disturbs some nasty people - namely Russians who have a major secret to keep hidden. The resourceful Xander manages to finally put the conspiracy together, amid much bloodshed in poor old Tasmania.
Whew, a lot happens in this 343 page novel, most of it to our Xander. I like crime novels and also espionage books, but am less enamoured with fantasy. Alas, much of this book is just that. And in my second paragraph above, I have not told you even half of the shenanigans that take place. I did, however, like the little asides and smart comments from Pete and Xander. Well done. Easy reading all round, but you certainly needed to suspend your disbelief much of the time.
October 12, 2023
A promising debut in Aussie crime fiction, Mole Creek by James Dunbar (2023) has an intriguing spy thriller element. The death of a former Vietnam veteran and police detective, Peter McAuslan leads to his journalist grandson Xander's trip to Tasmania. Police have determined the death as non-suspicious but Xander doesn’t agree. He is determined to work out what was so important to Peter that he would only be told when they met in person. In order to discover the truth, Xander must uncover parts of his grandfather’s life, which he has never spoken about, as a series of life-threatening incidents occur. The narrative seamlessly alternates between events in Tasmania and Peter’s tour of Vietnam in 1969 as a military police liaison officer. With plenty of surprise twists, nicely rising tension and danger, Xander has increasing doubts about whom he can trust or even believe. A must-read Aussie noir spy thriller that has a four and a half stars rating and a curiously promising ending. As always, the opinions herein are totally my own, freely given and without inducement.
May 6, 2024
A first class action/spy thriller
This book is quite a rollercoaster ride. It takes us across three generations from the Vietnam war to an UNESCO World Heritage site in Tasmania..
A young crime journalist is caught up in his grandfather's fight to find the killer of his Vietnamese lover fifty years prior. Xander's life is turned upside down as he attempts in turn to find his grandfather's killer.
The opening is a bit slow but it is necessary to concentrate so you understand the future events. Everything eventually ties in.
The novel is well researched. The characters are well developed and convincing. The dialogue is excellent, often funny, and full of Australian idiom and quotable quotes.
I found the ending quite risible. Some of the situations and weaponry were really quite comical. It was a bit slapstick, but it worked. I don't fancy our hero's chances of living a quiet life.
On the whole this book will satisfy the most serious spy thriller aficiando. It will also hit the mark with Vietnam Vets. A great read.
This book is quite a rollercoaster ride. It takes us across three generations from the Vietnam war to an UNESCO World Heritage site in Tasmania..
A young crime journalist is caught up in his grandfather's fight to find the killer of his Vietnamese lover fifty years prior. Xander's life is turned upside down as he attempts in turn to find his grandfather's killer.
The opening is a bit slow but it is necessary to concentrate so you understand the future events. Everything eventually ties in.
The novel is well researched. The characters are well developed and convincing. The dialogue is excellent, often funny, and full of Australian idiom and quotable quotes.
I found the ending quite risible. Some of the situations and weaponry were really quite comical. It was a bit slapstick, but it worked. I don't fancy our hero's chances of living a quiet life.
On the whole this book will satisfy the most serious spy thriller aficiando. It will also hit the mark with Vietnam Vets. A great read.
February 2, 2024
When Xander McAuslan refuses to believe that his grandfather Pete, a retired policeman and ex-Vietnam veteran has committed suicide, he unleashes a can of worms.
Pete has never told Xander very much about what he did in the Vietnam war. Xander know he was in the military police, and was sent home wounded, but little apart from that. Xander knows that his grandfather was supposedly writing his memoirs but hadn't kept in touch very well. However things about his grandfather's death don't sit well, and there are a number of puzzles: like, where is his laptop? Once Xander begins to investigate, things begin to happen.
This story was written mainly in two times frames, 50 years apart, producing a many stranded plot, which was for the main part fairly easy to follow. In the long run though, at the end, I think the author had a problem in pulling it all together, and it felt a bit rushed.
Pete has never told Xander very much about what he did in the Vietnam war. Xander know he was in the military police, and was sent home wounded, but little apart from that. Xander knows that his grandfather was supposedly writing his memoirs but hadn't kept in touch very well. However things about his grandfather's death don't sit well, and there are a number of puzzles: like, where is his laptop? Once Xander begins to investigate, things begin to happen.
This story was written mainly in two times frames, 50 years apart, producing a many stranded plot, which was for the main part fairly easy to follow. In the long run though, at the end, I think the author had a problem in pulling it all together, and it felt a bit rushed.
March 23, 2025
I bought this book on a whim at the airport on my way back from a long weekend trip down to Tassie. In many ways, this impulsive purchase aligned with the impulsivity of the main character. Xander is a rash, blunt character who could benefit from some lessons in regular social interactions however, as the reader, you somewhat forgive him as he is reeling from a loss.
Overall I enjoyed the plot and its developments (hence 3 stars) however I found Xander’s character to be quite annoying, particularly with Xander’s internal dialogue often functioning as jarring social commentary that is irrelevant to the plot. I felt as if James Dunbar was looking for opportunities to assure the reader that he is politically correct despite to the absence of development of female characters.
What carries the novel is the stunning scenery and perhaps that is not actually described in the book but rather lives in my head from visiting the location.
Overall I enjoyed the plot and its developments (hence 3 stars) however I found Xander’s character to be quite annoying, particularly with Xander’s internal dialogue often functioning as jarring social commentary that is irrelevant to the plot. I felt as if James Dunbar was looking for opportunities to assure the reader that he is politically correct despite to the absence of development of female characters.
What carries the novel is the stunning scenery and perhaps that is not actually described in the book but rather lives in my head from visiting the location.
August 2, 2023
This book tells the story of a crime that raises all the questions, set in a small Tasmanian town Mole Creek.
The storyline follows death, related questions and mysterious events. I felt that the story could have taken the reader more into any of these scenarios but instead leaves you wondering. I lost my way at times and felt that I’d missed something.
The main character Xander isn’t convinced that a murder hasn’t happened, he ruffles feathers as he tries to find the answers! The connections are hard to piece together, there’s a lot going on as Xavier’s investigation brings suspense, together with dire consequences.
Thanks to the publisher, NetGalley and the author for the opportunity to read and review this book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The storyline follows death, related questions and mysterious events. I felt that the story could have taken the reader more into any of these scenarios but instead leaves you wondering. I lost my way at times and felt that I’d missed something.
The main character Xander isn’t convinced that a murder hasn’t happened, he ruffles feathers as he tries to find the answers! The connections are hard to piece together, there’s a lot going on as Xavier’s investigation brings suspense, together with dire consequences.
Thanks to the publisher, NetGalley and the author for the opportunity to read and review this book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 6, 2024
The story is told in dual timeframes: the present with Xander investigating his grandfather’s death; the past, during the Vietnam War 50 years earlier and the events that took place there that may have something to do with Pete’s death all these years later. Clearly, there are events that take place in Vietnam that are important and have ramifications, it’s a matter of paying attention and figuring out where the clues make themselves known to us.
At times I felt that there was just a bit too much going on and the large cast of supporting characters were occasionally hard to keep track of, especially in the dual-timeline format. I found the historical sections of the book, in which the author explores complex intrigues going on behind the frontline of the Vietnam war, particularly fascinating.
At times I felt that there was just a bit too much going on and the large cast of supporting characters were occasionally hard to keep track of, especially in the dual-timeline format. I found the historical sections of the book, in which the author explores complex intrigues going on behind the frontline of the Vietnam war, particularly fascinating.
August 29, 2023
An excellent thriller by an author who brings scenes and people to life. The protagonist Xander is a journalist and the grandson of a Vietnam veteran who came back from the war with experiences he remembers both fondly and also with considerable anger.
A planned meetup between Xander and his grandfather Peter turns to tragedy when Peter is found dead, apparently by his own hand. But all is not what it seems and Xander's investigation turns up more suspects, dead ends and sudden deaths than an episode of Midsomer Murders.
With Russians, bent cops and a hermit living in a cave in remote Tasmania, this is a rollicking read which kept me interested. Makes me want to visit Mole Creek too !!
A planned meetup between Xander and his grandfather Peter turns to tragedy when Peter is found dead, apparently by his own hand. But all is not what it seems and Xander's investigation turns up more suspects, dead ends and sudden deaths than an episode of Midsomer Murders.
With Russians, bent cops and a hermit living in a cave in remote Tasmania, this is a rollicking read which kept me interested. Makes me want to visit Mole Creek too !!
March 28, 2025
Mole Creek by James Dunbar is the story of Xander McAuslan and how he gets to the bottom of his grandfathers, Peter, supposed suicide.
Deaths occur and many lies are told and Xander, the journalist, doesn’t believe that Peter committed suicide.
Xander uncovers many secrets from 50 years ago during the Vietnam War while trying to survive against the people who are trying to kill him to cover up the past.
James Dunbar did an exceptional job in writing this crime thriller that I thoroughly enjoyed. It was very easy to read and follow who was who and what was happening in the present as well as in the past.
I look forward to more from this author.
Thanks to Beauty and Lace and Echo Publishing for my copy to read and review.
Deaths occur and many lies are told and Xander, the journalist, doesn’t believe that Peter committed suicide.
Xander uncovers many secrets from 50 years ago during the Vietnam War while trying to survive against the people who are trying to kill him to cover up the past.
James Dunbar did an exceptional job in writing this crime thriller that I thoroughly enjoyed. It was very easy to read and follow who was who and what was happening in the present as well as in the past.
I look forward to more from this author.
Thanks to Beauty and Lace and Echo Publishing for my copy to read and review.
November 24, 2023
3.5 Stars
Set primarily in Tasmania, journalist and author Xander McAuslan comes to the small town of Mole Creek to deal with the death of his grandfather. The police deem the death a suicide, but Xander does not believe Pete would kill himself. Xander begins his own investigation and this leads him to events taking place in the Vietnam war.
A clever plot and the pace picks up considerably in the back quarter of this one.
My only minor criticism is that for a long time, Xander's investigation seems to go nowhere and this made the pace of the early portions of this story feel a little slow.
Set primarily in Tasmania, journalist and author Xander McAuslan comes to the small town of Mole Creek to deal with the death of his grandfather. The police deem the death a suicide, but Xander does not believe Pete would kill himself. Xander begins his own investigation and this leads him to events taking place in the Vietnam war.
A clever plot and the pace picks up considerably in the back quarter of this one.
My only minor criticism is that for a long time, Xander's investigation seems to go nowhere and this made the pace of the early portions of this story feel a little slow.
August 10, 2025
The plot is great and most of it kept me guessing for about 3/4 of the book.
However, the factual errors were frustrating. They are only small things but getting them right wouldn’t have been difficult. The Rolling Stones song, “Brown Sugar” was released in 1971. So it can’t have been playing in a Vietnam bar in 1969. The Australian War Memorial is not 1km down a straight road from Old Parliament House. It’s almost 3km in a straight line and there’s a lake in the middle. The Research Centre at the War Memorial isn’t staffed by grumpy Infantry private soldiers at small grey desks. Those kind of errors are annoying.
Still, I’d read another book by this author.
However, the factual errors were frustrating. They are only small things but getting them right wouldn’t have been difficult. The Rolling Stones song, “Brown Sugar” was released in 1971. So it can’t have been playing in a Vietnam bar in 1969. The Australian War Memorial is not 1km down a straight road from Old Parliament House. It’s almost 3km in a straight line and there’s a lake in the middle. The Research Centre at the War Memorial isn’t staffed by grumpy Infantry private soldiers at small grey desks. Those kind of errors are annoying.
Still, I’d read another book by this author.
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