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Murder in the Pacific #2
Murder in the Pacific: Mt Yasur
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 …
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 …
281 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 3, 2024
3 people are currently reading
49 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
March 17, 2026
I loved Murder in the Pacific: Ifira Point, so was excited to read this!
Sergeant George Long is visiting the island of Tanna for the wedding of Constable Jayline Oli. The leader of an aid agency, Hu Lee, is soon found fatally stabbed following an evacuation drill. It’s a case that catches the attention of those higher up, and with Jayline’s wedding fast approaching, the clock is ticking. George is up against it!
“Being asked to resolve a murder investigation that had the interest of the police commissioner, the prime minister’s office and a foreign embassy was not a good start to a week’s holiday.”
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.
“From where he was standing, he could see a number of sailing boats anchored in a very sheltered inlet protected on both sides by tall cliffs topped with thick jungle.”
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.
“It was a list of suspects longer than most crimes George had investigated in the past.”
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!
You can read my interview with the author here.
‘Tangkiu tumas’ to the author for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Sergeant George Long is visiting the island of Tanna for the wedding of Constable Jayline Oli. The leader of an aid agency, Hu Lee, is soon found fatally stabbed following an evacuation drill. It’s a case that catches the attention of those higher up, and with Jayline’s wedding fast approaching, the clock is ticking. George is up against it!
“Being asked to resolve a murder investigation that had the interest of the police commissioner, the prime minister’s office and a foreign embassy was not a good start to a week’s holiday.”
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.
“From where he was standing, he could see a number of sailing boats anchored in a very sheltered inlet protected on both sides by tall cliffs topped with thick jungle.”
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.
“It was a list of suspects longer than most crimes George had investigated in the past.”
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!
You can read my interview with the author here.
‘Tangkiu tumas’ to the author for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 10, 2025
Murder in the Pacific: Mt Yasur by Matt Francis
Synopsis /
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 …
My Thoughts /
As with the first book in the series, Murder in the Pacific: Ilfira Point, author, Matt Francis has done a wonderful job of catapulting me once again right into the heart of Vanuatu.
From the vivid descriptive prose; to the reserved and thoughtful approach to policing by Sergeant George Long of the Vanuatu National Police and Constable Jayline Oli (George's unofficial police partner); to the laid-back approach to island life, where everything seems to run to this non-specific sluggish time schedule affectionately known as “island time”. It’s as if the locals know a clock exists, but their pace is never in sync with anyone else’s. Sounds dreamy, right? Island Time. Except that there’s nothing dreamy about murder.
In book #2, George is visiting Tanna for a wedding; or, more correctly, he was there for Constable Jayline Oli's wedding to partner, Alfred. George was finally settling into 'holiday' mode when he received a phone call from his boss, instructing him to investigate the murder of a local manager of an aid agency situated in the heart of Tanna. Hu Lee was found fatally stabbed following a tsunami evacuation drill which had been undertaken earlier that day.
They had a body and they had the weapon – the knife hadn’t been tested, nor likely would be, but the assumption was safe. It clearly was the murder weapon. What George didn’t have was a suspect. That was a big disadvantage in any police investigation to say the least.
As you can imagine, this little Island is short on police presence (hence Long's involvement). It's also short on state of the art policing tools – here on Tanna there's no fancy forensics lab or experts in pathology analysis to help Long and Oli with their investigation. So for Long, it's back to basics - boots on the ground and knocking on doors.
There is no denying Francis' knowledge about this area, his writing is authentically accurate – set on a remote Pacific island, covered in rain forest and dominated by an active volcano – his prose places the reader within his written words, right into the story. His ability to weave old ways (kastom) with the new adds to the charm of the narrative.
Island life does not move at a frenetic pace, yet the narrative is anything but slow and Long and Oli manage to cut through the forest of secrets and subterfuge to solve the mystery of Hu Lee's murder.
With endearing characters and a setting that is not normally associated with murder, Francis has created a very enjoyable series.
Synopsis /
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 …
My Thoughts /
As with the first book in the series, Murder in the Pacific: Ilfira Point, author, Matt Francis has done a wonderful job of catapulting me once again right into the heart of Vanuatu.
From the vivid descriptive prose; to the reserved and thoughtful approach to policing by Sergeant George Long of the Vanuatu National Police and Constable Jayline Oli (George's unofficial police partner); to the laid-back approach to island life, where everything seems to run to this non-specific sluggish time schedule affectionately known as “island time”. It’s as if the locals know a clock exists, but their pace is never in sync with anyone else’s. Sounds dreamy, right? Island Time. Except that there’s nothing dreamy about murder.
In book #2, George is visiting Tanna for a wedding; or, more correctly, he was there for Constable Jayline Oli's wedding to partner, Alfred. George was finally settling into 'holiday' mode when he received a phone call from his boss, instructing him to investigate the murder of a local manager of an aid agency situated in the heart of Tanna. Hu Lee was found fatally stabbed following a tsunami evacuation drill which had been undertaken earlier that day.
They had a body and they had the weapon – the knife hadn’t been tested, nor likely would be, but the assumption was safe. It clearly was the murder weapon. What George didn’t have was a suspect. That was a big disadvantage in any police investigation to say the least.
As you can imagine, this little Island is short on police presence (hence Long's involvement). It's also short on state of the art policing tools – here on Tanna there's no fancy forensics lab or experts in pathology analysis to help Long and Oli with their investigation. So for Long, it's back to basics - boots on the ground and knocking on doors.
There is no denying Francis' knowledge about this area, his writing is authentically accurate – set on a remote Pacific island, covered in rain forest and dominated by an active volcano – his prose places the reader within his written words, right into the story. His ability to weave old ways (kastom) with the new adds to the charm of the narrative.
Island life does not move at a frenetic pace, yet the narrative is anything but slow and Long and Oli manage to cut through the forest of secrets and subterfuge to solve the mystery of Hu Lee's murder.
With endearing characters and a setting that is not normally associated with murder, Francis has created a very enjoyable series.
May 23, 2024
The portrayal of island culture and politics is fascinating, especially as in this story the Chinese feature prominently. Very timely.
A bit more attention to proofreading needed.
A bit more attention to proofreading needed.
June 24, 2024
I absolutely loved Murder in the Pacific Bk 1: Ifira Point, so was delighted to read Bk 2: Mt Yasur. You can tell Matt Francis loves Vanuatu, it shines through in the writing. There's not as much humour in this book - which I truly loved in Bk 1 - but it still read so well. I loved exploring the concept of foreign aid in Vanuatu, and how different it was when provided by the Australians VS by the Chinese - so much cultural difference there, which was food for thought. The 'character' of the volcano Mt Yasur was also very strong; quite the drawcard for the (newish) annual race up the mountain on Tanna Island, and for sightseers. Especially at night with the dramatic rumbles beneath the feet and then the eruptions of lava shooting into the sky. Sounds spectacular. The same two main police are here from Bk 1: Sergeant George Long and Constable Jayline Oli. They make a good pair, even though they're supposed to be on holidays for Jayline's wedding. The race is on to solve a murder before Jayline's big day: a Chinese aid worker stabbed through the heart in his truck at the bottom of Mt Yasur in broad daylight! There's all sorts of politics flying around here: the locals look after their own on the island so they're not as helpful as they might be with George and Jayline, and international politics with the Chinese becomes quite an issue. I loved the way George quietly goes about his work, trying not to upset or interrupt Jayline from her wedding preparations, although I think it's sort of a relief for her to get away from wedding politics to assist George. The ending is unusual, maybe not as satisfying as Bk 1, and definitely not what I was expecting. But it works.
Thankyou Beauty & Lace and Big Sky Publishing for the chance to read and review this book! I hope Matt Francis keeps writing this series, I'm thoroughly enjoying it, although judging by the last couple of pages there is more to come…
Thankyou Beauty & Lace and Big Sky Publishing for the chance to read and review this book! I hope Matt Francis keeps writing this series, I'm thoroughly enjoying it, although judging by the last couple of pages there is more to come…
February 3, 2024
George was under the impression he was on holidays….along comes a murder and voila….no more holidays.
Last year I was fortunate enough to be gifted a copy of Matt’s first book, Murder in the Pacific: Ifira Point, and after reading it I was very excited to get my hands on the next instalment.
Sergeant George Long returns and ends up investigating the murder of Hu Lee, aid agency leader, even though he is meant to be on holidays and attending his partner, Constable Jayline Oli’s wedding.
Once again there are no fancy forensics, expert pathology analysis, state of the art tools, or even a sense of urgency, although there is an upgrade to the usual ‘on its last legs’ taxivan, this adventure has a brand new 4-door Toyota HiLux Pickup….a red one. Now that’s a very notable upgrade.
Things are definitely done differently in Vanuatu and Tanna Island is no exception. Everything from the accommodation and food, through to the roads and customs, but one thing is for sure, Matt’s knowledge of all things Vanuatu and his storytelling skills add an amazing authenticity to the adventure and make you feel like you there seeing it all for yourself, although I’m not sure how many Westerners would really handle the accommodation or the menuless food ordering process.
George and Jayline work well together again, but this one feels like it centres more around George himself, but we also get to see another side of Jayline as she prepares for her marriage. Alfred returns as the dutiful driver, when he is free, but otherwise it’s a cast of new characters and very individual personalities.
Murder in the Pacific: Mt Yasur is a relaxing and easy read that immerses you into another culture while taking you on an adventure, which includes an active volcano. I recommend that you read book one first, but if you already have, then don’t delay in grabbing a copy of this one. 🌋
#murderinthepacificmtyasur
#mattfrancis
#volcanoviews
#bigskypublishing
Last year I was fortunate enough to be gifted a copy of Matt’s first book, Murder in the Pacific: Ifira Point, and after reading it I was very excited to get my hands on the next instalment.
Sergeant George Long returns and ends up investigating the murder of Hu Lee, aid agency leader, even though he is meant to be on holidays and attending his partner, Constable Jayline Oli’s wedding.
Once again there are no fancy forensics, expert pathology analysis, state of the art tools, or even a sense of urgency, although there is an upgrade to the usual ‘on its last legs’ taxivan, this adventure has a brand new 4-door Toyota HiLux Pickup….a red one. Now that’s a very notable upgrade.
Things are definitely done differently in Vanuatu and Tanna Island is no exception. Everything from the accommodation and food, through to the roads and customs, but one thing is for sure, Matt’s knowledge of all things Vanuatu and his storytelling skills add an amazing authenticity to the adventure and make you feel like you there seeing it all for yourself, although I’m not sure how many Westerners would really handle the accommodation or the menuless food ordering process.
George and Jayline work well together again, but this one feels like it centres more around George himself, but we also get to see another side of Jayline as she prepares for her marriage. Alfred returns as the dutiful driver, when he is free, but otherwise it’s a cast of new characters and very individual personalities.
Murder in the Pacific: Mt Yasur is a relaxing and easy read that immerses you into another culture while taking you on an adventure, which includes an active volcano. I recommend that you read book one first, but if you already have, then don’t delay in grabbing a copy of this one. 🌋
#murderinthepacificmtyasur
#mattfrancis
#volcanoviews
#bigskypublishing
May 8, 2024
This was exactly what I wanted - an easy to read murder mystery with well developed characters. The author clearly has a strong understanding of Vanuatu which was nicely weaved into the story. The Pacific is a region I know little about (other than NZ) so really enjoyed the story being set somewhere interesting.
March 5, 2024
Our favourite Sergeant George Long is back! This story begins with George visiting Tanna for the wedding of Constable Jayline Oli.
However when the leader of an aid support agency is found dead after an tsunami evacuation drill, George’s holiday becomes a working holiday when his boss contacts him to advise he has been ‘personally’ requested to lead the investigation
Word travels quickly through out the town and George is running out of time to piece together the clues and solve this murder mystery before the wedding
I loved the first book Murder in the Pacific : Ifira Point, was so excited to hear there was another book coming!
Murder in the Pacific : Mt Yasur is a wonderful read, it is fast paced, full of mystery and suspense, and continues the character growth of George. The dynamic between George & Jayline is fantastic, and love her commitment and how she drops all her wedding planning to investigate the murder! Adding in the setting of the volcano and beautiful Vanuatu, I was absolutely absorbed in this one!
Thank you so much @mattfrancis_books for my copy of this in exchange for my honest review
However when the leader of an aid support agency is found dead after an tsunami evacuation drill, George’s holiday becomes a working holiday when his boss contacts him to advise he has been ‘personally’ requested to lead the investigation
Word travels quickly through out the town and George is running out of time to piece together the clues and solve this murder mystery before the wedding
I loved the first book Murder in the Pacific : Ifira Point, was so excited to hear there was another book coming!
Murder in the Pacific : Mt Yasur is a wonderful read, it is fast paced, full of mystery and suspense, and continues the character growth of George. The dynamic between George & Jayline is fantastic, and love her commitment and how she drops all her wedding planning to investigate the murder! Adding in the setting of the volcano and beautiful Vanuatu, I was absolutely absorbed in this one!
Thank you so much @mattfrancis_books for my copy of this in exchange for my honest review
March 3, 2024
Matt Francis did a great job with this book. It flowed very well and was easy to read because of that. I was surprised how fast I got through it, but the flow of the book really helped it.
I am not a massive crime reader, but I enjoy Matt’s writing, and how his books give you a insight into the culture, the people, the land, while still going through the journey of solving a crime.
There were some great points in this book when it comes to racism, gentrification, foreign aid. It really made me think about how it all compares in the real world.
The only thing I felt this book lacked compared to the first book was book 1 had some humour in the beginning, I felt it gave the book a good entry point and felt light hearted in places where it could be. So this one had a different tone, but still great to read
I would like to thank Beauty and Lace magazine for giving me the opportunity to read this book
I am not a massive crime reader, but I enjoy Matt’s writing, and how his books give you a insight into the culture, the people, the land, while still going through the journey of solving a crime.
There were some great points in this book when it comes to racism, gentrification, foreign aid. It really made me think about how it all compares in the real world.
The only thing I felt this book lacked compared to the first book was book 1 had some humour in the beginning, I felt it gave the book a good entry point and felt light hearted in places where it could be. So this one had a different tone, but still great to read
I would like to thank Beauty and Lace magazine for giving me the opportunity to read this book
March 6, 2024
Having read the first Murder In The Pacific book I knew exactly what to expect. Although this is the second book it easily can be read as a stand alone. I did like having the insight into the characters beforehand though.
Easy to read and follow.
George finds himself looking for a murderer while on holidays to attend his police partners wedding on Tanna Island. He discovers the victim, Hu Lee, the leader of an aid agency was not what he seemed. George had many possible suspects in his investigation.
I enjoyed this book and read it quickly to see how it would end.
Thanks to Beauty and Lace and Big Sky Publishing for my copy to read and review.
Easy to read and follow.
George finds himself looking for a murderer while on holidays to attend his police partners wedding on Tanna Island. He discovers the victim, Hu Lee, the leader of an aid agency was not what he seemed. George had many possible suspects in his investigation.
I enjoyed this book and read it quickly to see how it would end.
Thanks to Beauty and Lace and Big Sky Publishing for my copy to read and review.
June 11, 2025
I was engaged straight away; taken back to Vanuatu and island life. Vanuatu is an integral character in this second story in The Murder in the Pacific series. If you’ve ever been or wanted to know more, you will love this story.
It is a slow mystery, but that is Vanuatu! It doesn’t feel like a bad thing; maybe a cozy crime/mystery? It was well written and I am eager to read the rest of the series and complete the collection. I figured out the perpetrator pretty quickly (I think maybe we were supposed to), but it was the motives and the customs. Fascinating!
It is a slow mystery, but that is Vanuatu! It doesn’t feel like a bad thing; maybe a cozy crime/mystery? It was well written and I am eager to read the rest of the series and complete the collection. I figured out the perpetrator pretty quickly (I think maybe we were supposed to), but it was the motives and the customs. Fascinating!
May 24, 2024
“Murder in the Pacific: Mt Yasur” reintroduces us to Sergeant George Long and the challenges of policing in the Pacific Islands. Author Matt Francis shows a deep understanding of the area, and provides an unusual crime novel which reflects the realities of the area.
George has travelled to Tanna Island for the wedding of Constable Jayline Oli. Both were introduced in “Murder in the Pacific: Ifira Point”. Continuing readers will appreciate the relationship between the two, and the deepening understanding we have of George in particular.
George has been looking forward to both the wedding and a holiday, so he’s dismayed when his boss calls and assigns him to investigate the murder of Hu Lee, the leader of a Chinese aid agency. George’s two main qualifications are that he is already on the island, and that he’s an outsider (from Vila).
Jayline, as his offsider, is soon enlisted as well. Juggling wedding preparations with a murder investigation is not an everyday task, but if anyone can rise to the occasion, it’s Jayline. George, however, is floundering a little. His mixed heritage is not an advantage in this investigation; there’s a multitude of suspects, but unfortunately some are Jayline’s family; and the Chinese Embassy is taking an uncomfortable interest in proceedings.
As with the earlier novel, Francis highlights the challenges of policing in this region. In particular, there’s virtually nothing in the way of forensics to assist. George must rely on questioning, his intelligence, and such evidence as he can find without any technology.
George himself dwells less on the lacks in his investigation than in the first novel, and uses what he has to best effect. George’s personality seems oddly unsuited to investigation – he’s not a very curious person, and doesn’t engage easily with others – but he’s nevertheless very effective. Readers are likely to find themselves ruminating along with him.
The landscape, community ties and customs, and history of this region are all important to the novel. Francis weaves these into the story, conveying a lot of information through George’s musings. At the end I felt that I’d learned quite a bit, although I never felt lectured.
Francis seems a little more comfortable in this novel, injecting some explicit humor into the story. His writing style is undemanding and largely good humored, reflecting to some extent George’s personality.
Readers who enjoyed the first novel will similarly enjoy this one. It advances the relationships established in the first, while providing a new and interesting plot and setting. New readers should have no problems following the plot or appreciating the setting, and the relationships are easy enough to understand as well.
While not the twistiest mystery I’ve ever read, this is a solid crime novel with an unique setting and distinctive characters. Many crime readers will enjoy it a lot.
An edited version of this review first appeared on www.beautyandlace.net as part of their bookclub.
You may also be interested in my review of the first in this series:
https://otherdreamsotherlives.home.bl...
George has travelled to Tanna Island for the wedding of Constable Jayline Oli. Both were introduced in “Murder in the Pacific: Ifira Point”. Continuing readers will appreciate the relationship between the two, and the deepening understanding we have of George in particular.
George has been looking forward to both the wedding and a holiday, so he’s dismayed when his boss calls and assigns him to investigate the murder of Hu Lee, the leader of a Chinese aid agency. George’s two main qualifications are that he is already on the island, and that he’s an outsider (from Vila).
Jayline, as his offsider, is soon enlisted as well. Juggling wedding preparations with a murder investigation is not an everyday task, but if anyone can rise to the occasion, it’s Jayline. George, however, is floundering a little. His mixed heritage is not an advantage in this investigation; there’s a multitude of suspects, but unfortunately some are Jayline’s family; and the Chinese Embassy is taking an uncomfortable interest in proceedings.
As with the earlier novel, Francis highlights the challenges of policing in this region. In particular, there’s virtually nothing in the way of forensics to assist. George must rely on questioning, his intelligence, and such evidence as he can find without any technology.
George himself dwells less on the lacks in his investigation than in the first novel, and uses what he has to best effect. George’s personality seems oddly unsuited to investigation – he’s not a very curious person, and doesn’t engage easily with others – but he’s nevertheless very effective. Readers are likely to find themselves ruminating along with him.
The landscape, community ties and customs, and history of this region are all important to the novel. Francis weaves these into the story, conveying a lot of information through George’s musings. At the end I felt that I’d learned quite a bit, although I never felt lectured.
Francis seems a little more comfortable in this novel, injecting some explicit humor into the story. His writing style is undemanding and largely good humored, reflecting to some extent George’s personality.
Readers who enjoyed the first novel will similarly enjoy this one. It advances the relationships established in the first, while providing a new and interesting plot and setting. New readers should have no problems following the plot or appreciating the setting, and the relationships are easy enough to understand as well.
While not the twistiest mystery I’ve ever read, this is a solid crime novel with an unique setting and distinctive characters. Many crime readers will enjoy it a lot.
An edited version of this review first appeared on www.beautyandlace.net as part of their bookclub.
You may also be interested in my review of the first in this series:
https://otherdreamsotherlives.home.bl...
March 21, 2024
Sergent George Long was looking forward to some downtime and perhaps a visit to the volcano at Mt Yasur prior to attending his colleague and friend, Constable Jayline Oli's, wedding. In a culture where international politics and influences is in contrast to the locals wanting their country as their own, it comes at no surprise that when a Chinese national is murdered in broad daylight the powers that be, in their political and legal positions, decide George is there and the best man, highest ranked, to find closure to this crime.
A small community, many of the suspects are linked to each other, even the family into which Jayline is about to marry. Having her help in the case, George finds he need tread lightly so as not to lose a friend and create an upset before the wedding day. Angst in the community is palpable with conflict is identified between the Chinese "aid worker" and the role he has been taking with the people.
Can George find the answers, get to the bottom of the crime, not have to arrest Jayline's to be family and all the while working through his own romantic conflicts.
Steamy climate both in the story line and the setting. I thoroughly enjoyed the second of the "Murder in the Pacific" books and look forward to more that may come. Thank you Beauty & Lace, Big Sky Publishing and author Matt Francis for the chance to read this book.
A small community, many of the suspects are linked to each other, even the family into which Jayline is about to marry. Having her help in the case, George finds he need tread lightly so as not to lose a friend and create an upset before the wedding day. Angst in the community is palpable with conflict is identified between the Chinese "aid worker" and the role he has been taking with the people.
Can George find the answers, get to the bottom of the crime, not have to arrest Jayline's to be family and all the while working through his own romantic conflicts.
Steamy climate both in the story line and the setting. I thoroughly enjoyed the second of the "Murder in the Pacific" books and look forward to more that may come. Thank you Beauty & Lace, Big Sky Publishing and author Matt Francis for the chance to read this book.
November 21, 2024
The sequel to Matt Francis’s Pacific setting murder mysteries, Murder in the Pacific: Mt Yasur (2024), once again features police Sergeant George Long. Traveling to the Island of Tanna, with its active volcano (Mount Yasur), George is enjoying a holiday before Constable Jayline Oli’s wedding. A telephone call from his boss instructs George to investigate the murder of a local manager of an aid agency - during a tsunami evacuation drill. George, accompanied by Jayline, discovers the manager was operating a money lending business on the side and several locals had large debts owing. Once again, against an idyllic setting including a visit to the volcano, George must uncover the motive to identify the killer. Under pressure from the Police Superintendent and with the Government watching, George must act quickly to ensure there are no international repercussions or tourist trade impacts. A slow boil of a police procedural, with the laconic detective and island paradise setting make for a truly enjoyable four stars read rating. As always, the opinions herein are totally my own, freely given and without any inducement.
May 22, 2025
Murder in the Pacific #2. Sgt. Long is on another island, on holiday, to attend the wedding of his offsider, Jayline Oli. A Chinese aid agency manager is murdered, and the chief assigns George and Jayline to the case. The reader will learn more about the problems of policing in an island community, and a lot more about cultural practices related to family - which are very extended. Unfortunately, the story drags quite a bit as George sits around waiting for people, eating and drinking, and generally having the wool pulled over his eyes. I would have to say that this book has a strong thread of anti-Chinese sentiment, although Australia comes in for a tap on the wrist as well. The methods and motivations of foreign aid are exposed as being of little benefit to ordinary islanders.
I was glad to find the first book in the series, and immediately went loo0king for this. It's very different from most murder mysteries, but it is starting to pall just a little. The ending was very rushed, and I'm sure many will consider it unsatisfactory.
One thing I like is the double spaced type, which was a pleasant read. There's one more in the series, I think - shall I or not?
rating 3.2.
I was glad to find the first book in the series, and immediately went loo0king for this. It's very different from most murder mysteries, but it is starting to pall just a little. The ending was very rushed, and I'm sure many will consider it unsatisfactory.
One thing I like is the double spaced type, which was a pleasant read. There's one more in the series, I think - shall I or not?
rating 3.2.
April 21, 2024
Sergeant George Long is in Tanna for the wedding of Constable Jayline Oli when a tsunami evacuation drill occurs and a visitor from the Chinese Embassy is killed. He is on a time limit now to solve the murder before the wedding day.
After reading and enjoying the first book in this series "Murder in the Pacific; Ifira Point", I was looking forward to starting book two. I loved it and finished it in one sitting.
It was lovely to be reacquainted once more with Sergeant George Long and Constable Jayline Oli as I was taken on another atmospheric and societal adventure in which a murder mystery was being investigated in the beautiful Republic of Vanuatu. I couldn't put it down.
The vivid writing style and short chapters captured my attention and imagination as I was engrossed by the characters and the fast paced and thrilling story which kept me in suspense throughout the entire book along with the Author's vast knowledge and love for Vanuatu playing a vital element to the story.
Can't wait for the next book.
After reading and enjoying the first book in this series "Murder in the Pacific; Ifira Point", I was looking forward to starting book two. I loved it and finished it in one sitting.
It was lovely to be reacquainted once more with Sergeant George Long and Constable Jayline Oli as I was taken on another atmospheric and societal adventure in which a murder mystery was being investigated in the beautiful Republic of Vanuatu. I couldn't put it down.
The vivid writing style and short chapters captured my attention and imagination as I was engrossed by the characters and the fast paced and thrilling story which kept me in suspense throughout the entire book along with the Author's vast knowledge and love for Vanuatu playing a vital element to the story.
Can't wait for the next book.
March 30, 2024
Murder in the Pacific: Mt Yasur by Matt Francis
adventurous challenging lighthearted mysterious fast-paced
Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
4.0
Thank you to @bigskypub for sending me a copy of this book in return for my honest review. I loved the first book in this series so it won’t come as a shock that I loved this one too.
This is the definition of a cosy mystery, short, fast paced and mysterious. I loved that it felt so familiar but also there was something new on every page to keep me guessing.
Less humour in this book but I think since we knew the characters better it wasn’t needed, we had already warmed up to them. I really enjoy that even when the native language is spoken and there is no immediate translation, it is easy to tell what is being said.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and this series as a whole and can’t wait for me.
adventurous challenging lighthearted mysterious fast-paced
Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
4.0
Thank you to @bigskypub for sending me a copy of this book in return for my honest review. I loved the first book in this series so it won’t come as a shock that I loved this one too.
This is the definition of a cosy mystery, short, fast paced and mysterious. I loved that it felt so familiar but also there was something new on every page to keep me guessing.
Less humour in this book but I think since we knew the characters better it wasn’t needed, we had already warmed up to them. I really enjoy that even when the native language is spoken and there is no immediate translation, it is easy to tell what is being said.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and this series as a whole and can’t wait for me.
May 16, 2024
Basically read this in a day - I enjoyed reading about a different culture, while also being something I can relate to / somewhat understand (the complicated relationship with being Chinese, Chinese influence in the pacific etc).
December 19, 2024
I loved this book! Second in the Murder in the Pacific series, it made me want to travel to Vanuatu and soak up the atmosphere and hang out with George and Jayline. Another page turning adventure! I can't wait for book three!
August 21, 2025
Easy listening. Murder on a small island of Tana, Vanuatu. Many suspects.
October 25, 2025
Another enjoyable, Pacific crime mystery. However, in this sequel, some of the things I enjoyed in the first novel, no longer felt as new or fun…
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