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A Harry Chin Murder Mystery #1
Tasmanian Devil
Inspector Harry Chin was a third generation Chinese born in Australia. His grandfather, Dong Shi Chin, had come over to Australia just after the Second World War and the resumption of the great civil war in China between Mao Tse Tung and Chiang Kai Shek. Australia has never been very homogenous, the Aussies prided themselves on the fact that Australia was a former British Penal Colony, and the descendants had inherited the murderous, pirate spirit of their forebears. I guess you could say that the Aussies were rather racist in their views about who should be allowed to immigrate into their—stolen land. Well, the United States had that same attitude since they stole their land too.
Harry Chin had worked his way up the ladder with the Australian Federal Police. No easy task with the all-white force. But the High Commissioner felt with the threat of organized crime—namely the Chinese Triads--that having a Chinese Detective who could actually speak that God awful heathen language might perhaps come in handy down the road. As it turned out, Harry Chin had one of the highest solve rates on the force. The main headquarters for the Australian Federal Police was in the Capital of Canberra, between Sidney and Melbourne.
Harry had a partner that he had acquired five years earlier. He also was a rarity on the Federal Police. He was an aboriginal, or better known as a Palawa by the name of Ash Friday. They probably assigned Ash to Harry Chin as a crude racist joke. But the joke was on them, because Ash Friday was not only a damn fine partner and officer—but he had spiritual powers passed down by his ancestors during the past 65,000 years that they had inhabited the Australian Continent.
This first in the Harry Chin Murder Mysteries, takes place on the island of Tasmania. Three, young, junior high school girls have mysteriously disappeared and Harry Chin and Ash Friday are sent from Canberra by their boss to solve the case, save the day and to do it quickly--or else!.
Harry Chin had worked his way up the ladder with the Australian Federal Police. No easy task with the all-white force. But the High Commissioner felt with the threat of organized crime—namely the Chinese Triads--that having a Chinese Detective who could actually speak that God awful heathen language might perhaps come in handy down the road. As it turned out, Harry Chin had one of the highest solve rates on the force. The main headquarters for the Australian Federal Police was in the Capital of Canberra, between Sidney and Melbourne.
Harry had a partner that he had acquired five years earlier. He also was a rarity on the Federal Police. He was an aboriginal, or better known as a Palawa by the name of Ash Friday. They probably assigned Ash to Harry Chin as a crude racist joke. But the joke was on them, because Ash Friday was not only a damn fine partner and officer—but he had spiritual powers passed down by his ancestors during the past 65,000 years that they had inhabited the Australian Continent.
This first in the Harry Chin Murder Mysteries, takes place on the island of Tasmania. Three, young, junior high school girls have mysteriously disappeared and Harry Chin and Ash Friday are sent from Canberra by their boss to solve the case, save the day and to do it quickly--or else!.
Kindle Edition
Published November 1, 2024
21 people are currently reading
35 people want to read
About the author
Ralph Griffith
74 books95 followersA Life Lived in Ink
Ralph Griffith is an intriguing American author with a life story that reads like a gripping novel itself. Known for his crime and mystery novels, his literary career began during his incarceration, where he spent over 30 years, including a final 14-year stretch that inspired his memoirs "Monkey House" and "The Real Bernie Madoff".
Griffith's notable works include:
"The Harry Chin Murder Mysteries"
"The Johnny Walker Detective Novels"
"The Clyde Thomas Novels"
"The Too-Sweet Sagas"
"The Big Huna Novels"
“The Griffith Chronicles”
Today, he continues to write from his home in the Pacific Northwest.
His series have been translated into Spanish.
You can visit Ralph at:
amazon.com/author/ralphgriffith
https://www.linkedin.com/in/xak-media/
https://www.facebook.com/XAKMediaGroup/
https://x.com/XakMedia
https://www.imdb.com/name/nm16300273/...
Una vida vivida en tinta
Ralph Griffith es un fascinante autor estadounidense cuya historia de vida se lee como una novela apasionante. Conocido por sus novelas policiales y de misterio, su carrera literaria comenzó durante su encarcelamiento, donde pasó más de 30 años, incluido un tramo final de 14 años que inspiró sus memorias "Monkey House" y "The Real Bernie Madoff".
Las obras notables de Griffith incluyen:
Los misterios del asesinato de Harry Chin
Las novelas de detectives de Johnny Walker
Las novelas de Clyde Thomas
Las sagas Too-Sweet
Las novelas de Big Huna
Las crónicas de Griffith
Hoy, continúa escribiendo desde su casa en el noroeste del Pacífico.
Ralph Griffith is an intriguing American author with a life story that reads like a gripping novel itself. Known for his crime and mystery novels, his literary career began during his incarceration, where he spent over 30 years, including a final 14-year stretch that inspired his memoirs "Monkey House" and "The Real Bernie Madoff".
Griffith's notable works include:
"The Harry Chin Murder Mysteries"
"The Johnny Walker Detective Novels"
"The Clyde Thomas Novels"
"The Too-Sweet Sagas"
"The Big Huna Novels"
“The Griffith Chronicles”
Today, he continues to write from his home in the Pacific Northwest.
His series have been translated into Spanish.
You can visit Ralph at:
amazon.com/author/ralphgriffith
https://www.linkedin.com/in/xak-media/
https://www.facebook.com/XAKMediaGroup/
https://x.com/XakMedia
https://www.imdb.com/name/nm16300273/...
Una vida vivida en tinta
Ralph Griffith es un fascinante autor estadounidense cuya historia de vida se lee como una novela apasionante. Conocido por sus novelas policiales y de misterio, su carrera literaria comenzó durante su encarcelamiento, donde pasó más de 30 años, incluido un tramo final de 14 años que inspiró sus memorias "Monkey House" y "The Real Bernie Madoff".
Las obras notables de Griffith incluyen:
Los misterios del asesinato de Harry Chin
Las novelas de detectives de Johnny Walker
Las novelas de Clyde Thomas
Las sagas Too-Sweet
Las novelas de Big Huna
Las crónicas de Griffith
Hoy, continúa escribiendo desde su casa en el noroeste del Pacífico.
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
April 7, 2025
Ralph Griffith’s Tasmanian Devil: A Harry Chin Murder Mystery #1 is a thrilling tale that effortlessly weaves together intrigue, cultural nuance, and gritty humor. Featuring a compelling duo of inspectors from the Australian Federal Police and a richly drawn mystery, the narrative takes readers multiple steps beyond the typical whodunit into a layered exploration of character, context, and stakes. Griffith delivers not just a mystery to solve, but an entire world to sink into, and in doing so, creates a story that is not only engaging but deeply memorable.
Introducing Harry Chin, at the core of the story stands Harry Chin, his Chinese heritage, detailed in rich notes, infuses his approach to investigation and decision-making with a unique depth. The author makes note of his Asian background being a hinderance, but I don’t see it at all. Harry is a deeply social individual who can work in any crowd and always enjoys the game of Go. He loves to eat and invites anyone to discuss the case over good food. Harry dresses in a suit and tie and uses his cane as a weapon of choice rather than a gun.
And Then There’s Ash Friday Ash Friday’s heritage as an Aboriginal man sets him apart from the rest of his federal inspector counterparts in profound ways. Unlike the polished, rule-bound demeanor typically associated with the profession (Harry Chin), Ash brings a unique sense of identity and perspective to every case he works. His connection to his roots informs his approach, often emphasizing intuition, his native community, and a deep-seated respect for the land and its stories. This cultural lens allows him to see nuances others might overlook, making him remarkably effective in what he does.
Adding to his distinct persona is his unconventional sense of style. Ash is known for ditching the formal attire of his peers in favor of brightly patterned Hawaiian shirts that seem to clash with his serious line of work. Yet, casual clothing reflects an approachable and laid-back attitude that contradicts any expectations of rigidity. His wardrobe choices send a statement—one that hints at his refusal to conform and his insistence on staying true to himself.
Beyond their individual appeal, Harry and Ash’s partnership is the heartbeat of the story. Their interplay blends wry banter, mutual respect, and unspoken tensions. Watching them gradually find their rhythm together is just as gripping as the murder mystery they unravel.
The Mystery of the Three Girls is it the center of Tasmanian Devil is its haunting mystery. The disappearance of three teenage girls sets the stage for the tension and danger that follows. From the opening pages, Griffith paints an evocative picture of their absence, leaving behind unnerving silence and unanswered questions. What starts as a relatively straightforward missing person’s case quickly spirals into far murkier waters.
Harry and Ash are tasked with unraveling the sequence of events that led to the disappearance of these girls. Griffith creates a mystery that feels as unpredictable as it does plausible. Each step the duo takes reveals another puzzle piece, another startling twist that reshapes their understanding of the case. What makes the investigative process, so engrossing is the inspectors’ refusal to deliver easy answers; instead, readers experience this tangled situation alongside Harry and Ash, discovering only as much as they do.
How the Case Unfolds? Griffith’s handling of pacing ensures that the mystery unfolds methodically but never drags. Every revelation pushes the plot forward, and there’s a sense—even in its quieter moments—that the clock is ticking. From cryptic leads to confrontations with criminals, Harry and
Ash use different strengths to peel back the layers of the truth. Harry’s experience allows him to follow subtle trails, while Ash’s resourcefulness often results in a brute-force approach to uncovering information.
While Tasmanian Devil is fundamentally a murder mystery, it is also a layered character study and a reflection on cultural and societal tensions. Griffith’s writing is steeped in nostalgia but not bound by it, offering nods to classic detective fiction while updating it for a modern audience. The exploration of Harry’s heritage, as well as the challenges Ash faces, infuses the story with themes of identity and resilience that resonate well beyond the murder-mystery framework.
The Tasmanian setting adds extra texture to the story, its rugged beauty juxtaposed against the underbelly of crime and secrets Harry and Ash uncover. It’s both cinematic and poetic, grounding the action in a sense of place that feels integral to the story’s identity.
Why Read Tasmanian Devil? Ralph Griffith crafts a novel that is not only thoroughly entertaining but also thought-provoking. His attention to character nuance, coupled with a tightly woven plot, makes this book standout in its genre. Harry and Ash’s dynamic alone is worth the read, delivering both wit and emotional depth. Additionally, the central mystery serves up just the right mix of suspense, twists, and moral dilemmas to keep readers engaged till the very end.
For fans of murder mysteries, character-driven storytelling, and plots that challenge conventional resolution, Tasmanian Devil is a must-read. Griffith proves himself to be a master of blending the familiar with the fresh, creating a book that invites readers to lose themselves in its pages while leaving plenty to ponder afterward.
Tasmanian Devil feels like the start of something much larger. With its richly drawn characters, gripping mystery, and nuanced exploration of justice, it sets an exceptionally high bar for subsequent books in the Harry Chin series. Perhaps what’s most intriguing is how it challenges its readers to reconsider complex questions of morality and identity in the guise of a murder mystery.
If you’re looking for a book that’s equal parts thrilling, reflective, and utterly unputdownable, Tasmanian Devil delivers in every possible way. And with Harry Chin and Ash Friday leading the charge, this series is one to watch closely.
I obtained this book from Kindle Unlimited upon the advice of the author, Ralph Griffith. I cannot wait for his next suggestion.
Introducing Harry Chin, at the core of the story stands Harry Chin, his Chinese heritage, detailed in rich notes, infuses his approach to investigation and decision-making with a unique depth. The author makes note of his Asian background being a hinderance, but I don’t see it at all. Harry is a deeply social individual who can work in any crowd and always enjoys the game of Go. He loves to eat and invites anyone to discuss the case over good food. Harry dresses in a suit and tie and uses his cane as a weapon of choice rather than a gun.
And Then There’s Ash Friday Ash Friday’s heritage as an Aboriginal man sets him apart from the rest of his federal inspector counterparts in profound ways. Unlike the polished, rule-bound demeanor typically associated with the profession (Harry Chin), Ash brings a unique sense of identity and perspective to every case he works. His connection to his roots informs his approach, often emphasizing intuition, his native community, and a deep-seated respect for the land and its stories. This cultural lens allows him to see nuances others might overlook, making him remarkably effective in what he does.
Adding to his distinct persona is his unconventional sense of style. Ash is known for ditching the formal attire of his peers in favor of brightly patterned Hawaiian shirts that seem to clash with his serious line of work. Yet, casual clothing reflects an approachable and laid-back attitude that contradicts any expectations of rigidity. His wardrobe choices send a statement—one that hints at his refusal to conform and his insistence on staying true to himself.
Beyond their individual appeal, Harry and Ash’s partnership is the heartbeat of the story. Their interplay blends wry banter, mutual respect, and unspoken tensions. Watching them gradually find their rhythm together is just as gripping as the murder mystery they unravel.
The Mystery of the Three Girls is it the center of Tasmanian Devil is its haunting mystery. The disappearance of three teenage girls sets the stage for the tension and danger that follows. From the opening pages, Griffith paints an evocative picture of their absence, leaving behind unnerving silence and unanswered questions. What starts as a relatively straightforward missing person’s case quickly spirals into far murkier waters.
Harry and Ash are tasked with unraveling the sequence of events that led to the disappearance of these girls. Griffith creates a mystery that feels as unpredictable as it does plausible. Each step the duo takes reveals another puzzle piece, another startling twist that reshapes their understanding of the case. What makes the investigative process, so engrossing is the inspectors’ refusal to deliver easy answers; instead, readers experience this tangled situation alongside Harry and Ash, discovering only as much as they do.
How the Case Unfolds? Griffith’s handling of pacing ensures that the mystery unfolds methodically but never drags. Every revelation pushes the plot forward, and there’s a sense—even in its quieter moments—that the clock is ticking. From cryptic leads to confrontations with criminals, Harry and
Ash use different strengths to peel back the layers of the truth. Harry’s experience allows him to follow subtle trails, while Ash’s resourcefulness often results in a brute-force approach to uncovering information.
While Tasmanian Devil is fundamentally a murder mystery, it is also a layered character study and a reflection on cultural and societal tensions. Griffith’s writing is steeped in nostalgia but not bound by it, offering nods to classic detective fiction while updating it for a modern audience. The exploration of Harry’s heritage, as well as the challenges Ash faces, infuses the story with themes of identity and resilience that resonate well beyond the murder-mystery framework.
The Tasmanian setting adds extra texture to the story, its rugged beauty juxtaposed against the underbelly of crime and secrets Harry and Ash uncover. It’s both cinematic and poetic, grounding the action in a sense of place that feels integral to the story’s identity.
Why Read Tasmanian Devil? Ralph Griffith crafts a novel that is not only thoroughly entertaining but also thought-provoking. His attention to character nuance, coupled with a tightly woven plot, makes this book standout in its genre. Harry and Ash’s dynamic alone is worth the read, delivering both wit and emotional depth. Additionally, the central mystery serves up just the right mix of suspense, twists, and moral dilemmas to keep readers engaged till the very end.
For fans of murder mysteries, character-driven storytelling, and plots that challenge conventional resolution, Tasmanian Devil is a must-read. Griffith proves himself to be a master of blending the familiar with the fresh, creating a book that invites readers to lose themselves in its pages while leaving plenty to ponder afterward.
Tasmanian Devil feels like the start of something much larger. With its richly drawn characters, gripping mystery, and nuanced exploration of justice, it sets an exceptionally high bar for subsequent books in the Harry Chin series. Perhaps what’s most intriguing is how it challenges its readers to reconsider complex questions of morality and identity in the guise of a murder mystery.
If you’re looking for a book that’s equal parts thrilling, reflective, and utterly unputdownable, Tasmanian Devil delivers in every possible way. And with Harry Chin and Ash Friday leading the charge, this series is one to watch closely.
I obtained this book from Kindle Unlimited upon the advice of the author, Ralph Griffith. I cannot wait for his next suggestion.
February 24, 2025
I found it very enjoyable to read, I liked the characters and how the story developed.
February 7, 2025
I read this book personally at request of the author. I am so glad I did. Mysteries are my top Genre to read. This one was so good. Ralph Griffith is a very talented writer. This book had everything you could want mystery, action, and emotions all rolled into one. It kept me on the edge of my seat to see what would happen next. Harry, Ash are the Federal Inspectors called in to a very disturbing case of three missing girls. The missing girls are from a small town called Hobart in Australia. Inspector Harry Chin has a feeling that it is a local that is doing the kidnapping. Someone that the local authorities would never suspect. They were hoping that the girls were alive, that is until Inspector Ash Friday stumbles across the grave of the first missing girl. Harry and Ash are hoping that the other girls still might have a chance. All they do know is time is of the essence. I think I just found a new author to read and put in the top of my favorite author's list. I highly recommend this book. It is a must read. You have to get this book. Now go get it!!
February 14, 2022
This book is an extremely poor example of Australian literature. It is demeaning of both Chinese and First Australians. The plot is full of holes and the resolution is not supported by the complication. Grammar, punctuation, spelling and sentence construction is well below standard for a published book. Finally the characters are not believable. If you struggle to find time to read during the day do not waste your precious time on this book.
February 3, 2022
hi
I was excited to read a book with a main character who just happened to be Aboriginal. I was bitterly disappointed by the cheesy mysticism and bizarre stereotyping. I can not imagine a policeman going missing and nobody doing anything about it. Also could have done with good editing.
I was excited to read a book with a main character who just happened to be Aboriginal. I was bitterly disappointed by the cheesy mysticism and bizarre stereotyping. I can not imagine a policeman going missing and nobody doing anything about it. Also could have done with good editing.
April 5, 2025
Three young girls go missing, one after another. Then two are found murdered. The clock is ticking to find the third girl, hopefully alive. Teachers and police officers are under the microscope as possibly being involved.
March 15, 2025
A really good mystery. Loved the action and twists
This is an intriguing story line involving a first generation Chinese Australian Federal Inspector and a younger Australian Native Pawalan investigating the kidnapping of 3 junior high school girls and the death of 2 of them. It has a good plotline and the characters are relatable and fully formed. If possible I will read more of this author's in the future.
This is an intriguing story line involving a first generation Chinese Australian Federal Inspector and a younger Australian Native Pawalan investigating the kidnapping of 3 junior high school girls and the death of 2 of them. It has a good plotline and the characters are relatable and fully formed. If possible I will read more of this author's in the future.
January 18, 2022
The most error ridden ebook I've ever read (I read over 200 books per year). Perhaps the author used a dictation app and then did no editing. Humongous problems with punctuation, incomplete sentences, and paragraph construction. Sydney spelt Sidney. Drug used on several occasions for dragged. The ridiculous and ubiquitous, in the US, phrase 'where you at'. The emergency no converted from the Australian 000 into the US 911. Completely incorrect portrayal of the roles of Federal Police versus State Police. So many more. But what about the characters you say. Flat as a pancake. How about the plot, the story, surely it was okay. Yep, good twists.
January 21, 2022
I really waned to rate this book higher as I enjoyed the characters and would like to get to know them better. The story moved along well, good mystery, good detecting. BUT, there were so many errors: almost one per page. Someone obviously counted on "spellcheck" to sort things out - what a terrible decision. When one of the characters declared she was a "window" (widow?), I almost decided to put it down. Also, many, many errors in using/not using the past tense of verbs. Please do better.
November 14, 2021
Great Read
I drawn into the story. It held my attention. When the author described a place I could see it in my mind's eye. The story held my attention from beginning to end. There were significant problems with punctuation, incomplete sentences, and paragraph construction. Remedies might include finding a good proof reader, taking a course in English Composition, reading fiction.
I drawn into the story. It held my attention. When the author described a place I could see it in my mind's eye. The story held my attention from beginning to end. There were significant problems with punctuation, incomplete sentences, and paragraph construction. Remedies might include finding a good proof reader, taking a course in English Composition, reading fiction.
May 12, 2025
I found the plot and characters very enlightening. Likewise, I felt as though I was actually in the wilds of Australia for the duration of the mystery. From Inspector Harry Chin to Ash Friday to the supporting cast of characters, I was in tune with the various characters and the story's tempo. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves to sit down and read a good mystery. My only issue was with the grammar and misspellings. However, I understood the overall theme. As such, this plot circumvented any issue with the writing. Blessings now and forever, Frank D. Tigue
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews