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Chasing the Dragon: Betancourt Mystery Series, Book 2
The much-awaited follow up to Waking the Tiger, shortlisted for the 2022 Crime Writers’ Association John Creasey (New Blood) Dagger, the 2021 Scottish Crime Debut of the Year and the 2022 Ngaio Marsh Best First Novel Prize.
Singapore, 1940
A local fisherman finds the body of a missing American archaeologist
Detective Inspector Betancourt, of the Singapore Marine Police, is first on the scene. Something doesn't quite add up. He finds out that the archaeologist, Richard Fulbright, was close to deciphering the previously-untranslatable script on a pre-colonial relic known as the Singapore Stone. This was no accidental drowning.
Is there more to this case than archaeological rivalries?
Betancourt also discovers that Fulbright had been having an affair. He is sure he is onto something bigger than just academic infighting.
A government opium factory draws criminal interest
In his investigations into the death, Betancourt finds his own life in danger, and now he has also put himself on the wrong side of British Military Intelligence, and he is unsure which set of opponents he fears the most....
Singapore, 1940
A local fisherman finds the body of a missing American archaeologist
Detective Inspector Betancourt, of the Singapore Marine Police, is first on the scene. Something doesn't quite add up. He finds out that the archaeologist, Richard Fulbright, was close to deciphering the previously-untranslatable script on a pre-colonial relic known as the Singapore Stone. This was no accidental drowning.
Is there more to this case than archaeological rivalries?
Betancourt also discovers that Fulbright had been having an affair. He is sure he is onto something bigger than just academic infighting.
A government opium factory draws criminal interest
In his investigations into the death, Betancourt finds his own life in danger, and now he has also put himself on the wrong side of British Military Intelligence, and he is unsure which set of opponents he fears the most....
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Published September 28, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
September 19, 2023
A gripping, full of action thriller on the streets of Singapore. The mystery surrounding the body has Betancourt finding links from archaeology to the opium trade to the political delicacies of the area - which add up to a melting pot of possibilities for him to investigate.
Betancourt is an instantly likeable main character - humorous, slightly flawed, a bit scruffy but fiercely intelligent he relies on his detective instincts when trying to solve this case and I really enjoyed his relationship with Evelyn.
Although this can be read as a standalone, I’m definitely going to read the first in the Betancourt series so as to get a better understanding of the man.
October 19, 2023
The story starts with a poor subsistence fisherman partaking of an activity we all do daily (though rarely mentioned in fiction) through a hole cut in the floor of his kelong (fishing platform) when he discovers a body wrapped up in a fishing net. He does the right thing, at the risk of creating trouble for himself, by calling the police and taking the body ashore. The timing of this coincides with the unloading of the prized but foul-smelling durian crop. When the body is uncovered, they realise it is a white man so something must be done. These simple tasks capture the time, the sights, sounds and smells of the Singapore dockside perfectly. We see the native poor, the coolies, rickshaw men, labourers and former sepoy, expendable labour, expendable lives. If it had been a Malay in the net the bare minimum would be done. At the other end of the scale the white colonial powers, for whom nothing is too much and some never enough. The structural and institutional racism of the time must have been shocking compared to modern enlightened thought.
Our police inspector, Max Betancourt, is conveniently or sometimes inconveniently somewhere between the two. Betancourt is Kristang in origin, a mixed-race Portuguese-Malay people, which places him with a foot in each camp, allowing him insider and outsider perspectives, though for some people he will never be enough of one or the other. Through his dealings with and treatment of the non-Europeans we see the kindness and humanity of the man. He is also able to rub shoulders with the elite of the colony as well the fly, dodgy characters on the racecourse.
There is one black cloud over Betancourt’s life, his missing wife. His wife disappeared without a trace after a car crash which killed her driver. Initially he thought a criminal gang was involved but having heard nothing he is no longer sure. He has searched for her and is conflicted, not wanting to the abandon the search prevents him from moving on with his life, something even his daughter believes her should. She can see the chemistry between him and police surgeon Evelyn, the potential love interest, and believes in carpe diem but Evelyn might have given up waiting. This relationship is one that bubbles through the storyline and promises to bring more joy in future instalments.
The timing is perfect in demonstrating the over confidence and sheer arrogance of the powers of the time. The Second World War is in the ‘phoney’ war period, with Germany and Japan making territorial gains but the British are convinced that Singapore will be safe. They underestimate the ‘inferior’ Japanese military and believe the garrison too strong, but when the attack came, they held out for merely a week. In just a few paragraphs this palpable contempt is laid bare, with hard lessons to be learned in the future.
From the title and cover of the novel it is obvious that opium is going to play its part and I suspect for many readers what is revealed will come as something of a shock. Some will be aware of the opium wars but regard those as the distant past, but to think that as recently as 1940, opium consumption was controlled and taxed by authorities, much as alcohol or tobacco is now, is truly mind blowing. A shameful period of our past laid bare, warts and all, well researched and convincingly covered.
The story gradually builds up, with regular injections of action and intrigue before a danger packed conclusion which will have readers enthralled. Throughout the story there are incidents revealing glimpses of ordinary life there, across the class and race spectrum, which add to the fascination of the place so perfectly captured in the prose. Betancourt may ride a motorcycle, but he is not a stereotypical action man, far from it, he does place himself in risky situations, but when there is a fight, he invariably comes off second best. He is lucky to have the lovely Evelyn to minister to his needs.
An enlightening, engaging and entertaining historical crime .
Our police inspector, Max Betancourt, is conveniently or sometimes inconveniently somewhere between the two. Betancourt is Kristang in origin, a mixed-race Portuguese-Malay people, which places him with a foot in each camp, allowing him insider and outsider perspectives, though for some people he will never be enough of one or the other. Through his dealings with and treatment of the non-Europeans we see the kindness and humanity of the man. He is also able to rub shoulders with the elite of the colony as well the fly, dodgy characters on the racecourse.
There is one black cloud over Betancourt’s life, his missing wife. His wife disappeared without a trace after a car crash which killed her driver. Initially he thought a criminal gang was involved but having heard nothing he is no longer sure. He has searched for her and is conflicted, not wanting to the abandon the search prevents him from moving on with his life, something even his daughter believes her should. She can see the chemistry between him and police surgeon Evelyn, the potential love interest, and believes in carpe diem but Evelyn might have given up waiting. This relationship is one that bubbles through the storyline and promises to bring more joy in future instalments.
The timing is perfect in demonstrating the over confidence and sheer arrogance of the powers of the time. The Second World War is in the ‘phoney’ war period, with Germany and Japan making territorial gains but the British are convinced that Singapore will be safe. They underestimate the ‘inferior’ Japanese military and believe the garrison too strong, but when the attack came, they held out for merely a week. In just a few paragraphs this palpable contempt is laid bare, with hard lessons to be learned in the future.
From the title and cover of the novel it is obvious that opium is going to play its part and I suspect for many readers what is revealed will come as something of a shock. Some will be aware of the opium wars but regard those as the distant past, but to think that as recently as 1940, opium consumption was controlled and taxed by authorities, much as alcohol or tobacco is now, is truly mind blowing. A shameful period of our past laid bare, warts and all, well researched and convincingly covered.
The story gradually builds up, with regular injections of action and intrigue before a danger packed conclusion which will have readers enthralled. Throughout the story there are incidents revealing glimpses of ordinary life there, across the class and race spectrum, which add to the fascination of the place so perfectly captured in the prose. Betancourt may ride a motorcycle, but he is not a stereotypical action man, far from it, he does place himself in risky situations, but when there is a fight, he invariably comes off second best. He is lucky to have the lovely Evelyn to minister to his needs.
An enlightening, engaging and entertaining historical crime .
September 18, 2023
Chasing the dragon has such a powerful first chapter. Less than five hundred words long, we learn so much about setting and character. Wightman’s descriptive prowess is immaculate. Local language and a view of distant hills perfectly pinpoints the location and the story’s main topic is alluded to by the title and confidently confirmed on page one.
This is an author who knows the difference between intrigue and the reader’s frustration with information which is deliberately withheld but which doesn’t lead the reader to ask questions. Wightman’s intrigue piques interest and engagement. I’ve shared chapter one to show you what I mean:
‘The kelong – the fishing platform that acted as both the man’s home and the means of making his living – swayed as the outgoing tide pushed against the wooden pillars holding the structure proud of the water. He gazed across at the shore where distant lights twinkled on Bukit Chandu, the hill named for the government opium factory at its foot – chandu being the Bengali word for opium. The man finished his business and stood. His knees cracked as he rose to his full height, and he wondered idly where the years had gone. Taking a ladleful of water from a tin reserved for the purpose, he completed his toilet before pulling up his shorts and drawing the string tight. He gazed absent-mindedly down through the hole in the floor. The green sea lapped at the wooden platform and tiny fish darted through flecks of foam, pecking at the algae growing from the mussels that clung to the pillars. Suddenly, a white bundle billowed out from behind one of the wooden pillars. He fished in his shirt pocket for a pair of spectacles and, without unfolding the legs, he placed the frame on the bridge of his nose and squinted. It was a fishing net. Not one of the small throw nets he cast from the platform of his kelong to catch sprats – it was too big for that. Besides, he was fastidious about the care of his own nets – they were his livelihood, after all – and he was sure that if he checked, he’d find his nets pinned to the wooden wall of the kelong, like gossamer espaliers, just as he’d left them the previous evening before he retired. Returning to the hole in the floor, he peered down again. The moon hid behind the cloud, taking its light with it, and it was then the man perceived that the net contained something bulky. As he kneeled to gain a better view, an incoming wave picked up the bundle and thrust it upwards. From the folds of the net two empty eye sockets peered at him, their contents already surrendered to the swarm of small fish that picked away at the remaining morsels.
The man shot to his feet, leant over the side of the kelong, and retched until his stomach was empty.’
It’s clear that the government opium farm and the body are connected in some way and this is a great example of Chekhov’s smoking gun. Additionally, we know instantly that there is something unusual about the fishing net. As a result, reader questions abound: was the body hidden with little effort at concealment? If so, then was this a murder by a killer who feels they have little to fear from the police? The detailing within this first chapter make it unclear whether the murder is a blatant signal or a gruesome accident? There’s great intrigue from the outset. We immediately suspect that the net contains a body but these details are tantalisingly held just out of reach until a wave forces the grim parcel upwards and almost into the fisherman’s face.
Betancourt receives the call from his Sargeant, Quek in the early hours and is summoned to the police station where the fisherman who made the gruesome discovery waits. Ready to dismiss the finding as a local fisherman who has fallen overboard and become trapped in his own net, Betancourt is annoyed to discover the body is that of a European and therefore the death can’t be swept under the carpet whilst he escapes back to bed for a few more hours.
There is so much of Singapore culture and knowledge packed into these early chapters, which enrich the story. As I mentioned above, the details are blended with the narrative, so nothing is forced or jarring. I have so much respect for both the storytelling and for the editing, both are excellently in tune with the other and create a story which is engaging, enthralling, intriguing and utterly compelling. Chasing the Dragon is unlike any crime story I’ve read before and the drugs barons have such history which gives this tale Singapore mafia overtones with the government and therefore the chiefs of police intrinsically involved.
The victim seems at the outset to be an incongruous choice but it is clear that someone is not being entirely honest with the police. Why also has the victim chosen to live in an area below his status and salary, and what has prompted this move from the comfortable quarters he initially rented? Intrigue abounds and the deftly drawn characters are both memorable and all have some reason to find or hide the truth. As we read on, the list of enemies made by Dr Fulbright increase and lead Betancourt in different directions.
Despite receiving a number of violent warnings and a court decision which seems determined to sweep the whole matter under the carpet, Betancourt is determined to uncover the truth and get to the bottom of what appears to be a cover-up of huge and far-reaching proportions.
This is one of those books that I’ve found myself waking in the night to read just one more chapter, which tells me that its story is ticking away in my subconscious. I urge you to read it.
This is an author who knows the difference between intrigue and the reader’s frustration with information which is deliberately withheld but which doesn’t lead the reader to ask questions. Wightman’s intrigue piques interest and engagement. I’ve shared chapter one to show you what I mean:
‘The kelong – the fishing platform that acted as both the man’s home and the means of making his living – swayed as the outgoing tide pushed against the wooden pillars holding the structure proud of the water. He gazed across at the shore where distant lights twinkled on Bukit Chandu, the hill named for the government opium factory at its foot – chandu being the Bengali word for opium. The man finished his business and stood. His knees cracked as he rose to his full height, and he wondered idly where the years had gone. Taking a ladleful of water from a tin reserved for the purpose, he completed his toilet before pulling up his shorts and drawing the string tight. He gazed absent-mindedly down through the hole in the floor. The green sea lapped at the wooden platform and tiny fish darted through flecks of foam, pecking at the algae growing from the mussels that clung to the pillars. Suddenly, a white bundle billowed out from behind one of the wooden pillars. He fished in his shirt pocket for a pair of spectacles and, without unfolding the legs, he placed the frame on the bridge of his nose and squinted. It was a fishing net. Not one of the small throw nets he cast from the platform of his kelong to catch sprats – it was too big for that. Besides, he was fastidious about the care of his own nets – they were his livelihood, after all – and he was sure that if he checked, he’d find his nets pinned to the wooden wall of the kelong, like gossamer espaliers, just as he’d left them the previous evening before he retired. Returning to the hole in the floor, he peered down again. The moon hid behind the cloud, taking its light with it, and it was then the man perceived that the net contained something bulky. As he kneeled to gain a better view, an incoming wave picked up the bundle and thrust it upwards. From the folds of the net two empty eye sockets peered at him, their contents already surrendered to the swarm of small fish that picked away at the remaining morsels.
The man shot to his feet, leant over the side of the kelong, and retched until his stomach was empty.’
It’s clear that the government opium farm and the body are connected in some way and this is a great example of Chekhov’s smoking gun. Additionally, we know instantly that there is something unusual about the fishing net. As a result, reader questions abound: was the body hidden with little effort at concealment? If so, then was this a murder by a killer who feels they have little to fear from the police? The detailing within this first chapter make it unclear whether the murder is a blatant signal or a gruesome accident? There’s great intrigue from the outset. We immediately suspect that the net contains a body but these details are tantalisingly held just out of reach until a wave forces the grim parcel upwards and almost into the fisherman’s face.
Betancourt receives the call from his Sargeant, Quek in the early hours and is summoned to the police station where the fisherman who made the gruesome discovery waits. Ready to dismiss the finding as a local fisherman who has fallen overboard and become trapped in his own net, Betancourt is annoyed to discover the body is that of a European and therefore the death can’t be swept under the carpet whilst he escapes back to bed for a few more hours.
There is so much of Singapore culture and knowledge packed into these early chapters, which enrich the story. As I mentioned above, the details are blended with the narrative, so nothing is forced or jarring. I have so much respect for both the storytelling and for the editing, both are excellently in tune with the other and create a story which is engaging, enthralling, intriguing and utterly compelling. Chasing the Dragon is unlike any crime story I’ve read before and the drugs barons have such history which gives this tale Singapore mafia overtones with the government and therefore the chiefs of police intrinsically involved.
The victim seems at the outset to be an incongruous choice but it is clear that someone is not being entirely honest with the police. Why also has the victim chosen to live in an area below his status and salary, and what has prompted this move from the comfortable quarters he initially rented? Intrigue abounds and the deftly drawn characters are both memorable and all have some reason to find or hide the truth. As we read on, the list of enemies made by Dr Fulbright increase and lead Betancourt in different directions.
Despite receiving a number of violent warnings and a court decision which seems determined to sweep the whole matter under the carpet, Betancourt is determined to uncover the truth and get to the bottom of what appears to be a cover-up of huge and far-reaching proportions.
This is one of those books that I’ve found myself waking in the night to read just one more chapter, which tells me that its story is ticking away in my subconscious. I urge you to read it.
February 10, 2025
1940s colonial Singapore starring Detective Inspector Betancourt of the Singapore Marine Police.
September 12, 2023
Back in 2021 I was lucky to get the opportunity to read an early copy of this author's debut novel, Waking The Tiger. The book went on to be shortlisted for the 2022 New Blood Dagger and the 2021 Scottish Crime Debut. I was delighted to get to read this book back in June as I absolutely loved the debut book and I have the same feelings about Chasing The Dragon.
Straight away as I started reading I felt that I had experienced time travel and was back in 1940's Singapore. Not only does the book welcome you to Singapore at that time but you also become immersed. into the culture, feel and emotion of Singapore.
The writing is amazing. I loved some of the words used, such as frowsy, and also thought that the glossary in the back was a great idea and gave more knowledge about the country and its people. This book was like a mystery, thriller, historical, and police procedural all rolled into one engrossing story. There was even a little romance, which is not one of my favourite genres, but it fitted in well here.
It has been a couple of years since I read the initial book in the series, so although it was imprinted in my memory, I feel that with the approach made it could easily be read as a standalone.
The only negative part of the book, in my opinion, was the ending. Maybe it was me, but I was expecting a little more and it appeared to end quite abruptly but I appreciate some readers like that approach. Still a wonderful read and I am so looking forward to reading book 3 in the series.
Many thanks to Hobeck Books and the author for providing me with an advanced review copy of the book in electronic format, in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
Straight away as I started reading I felt that I had experienced time travel and was back in 1940's Singapore. Not only does the book welcome you to Singapore at that time but you also become immersed. into the culture, feel and emotion of Singapore.
The writing is amazing. I loved some of the words used, such as frowsy, and also thought that the glossary in the back was a great idea and gave more knowledge about the country and its people. This book was like a mystery, thriller, historical, and police procedural all rolled into one engrossing story. There was even a little romance, which is not one of my favourite genres, but it fitted in well here.
It has been a couple of years since I read the initial book in the series, so although it was imprinted in my memory, I feel that with the approach made it could easily be read as a standalone.
The only negative part of the book, in my opinion, was the ending. Maybe it was me, but I was expecting a little more and it appeared to end quite abruptly but I appreciate some readers like that approach. Still a wonderful read and I am so looking forward to reading book 3 in the series.
Many thanks to Hobeck Books and the author for providing me with an advanced review copy of the book in electronic format, in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
September 4, 2023
I was excited to read this despite not having read the first book, even though its been on my tbr forever after having been shortlisted for so many awards, not least the debut dagger.
My enjoyment of this was not in the least affected by not having read it, and enjoy it I did.
I seem to have read quite a few books recently about opium addiction, but this is possibly my favourite.
Set in Singapore rather that India, it puts an entirely unique slant on the issue. It also gives a wonderful view of the area back in the 1940s. The description is so wonderful it felt like I was walking the streets.
I liked Batencourt. He worked hard and doesn't mind upsetting his superiors in as many ways as he can manage. He also doesn't give up when he knows he hasn't yet found the truth.
Some brilliant and some odious characters, all of them are well rounded and have their place in the story.
I really enjoyed reading this. I couldn't wait to get back to it when I had to put it down. It had the ability to immerse me in the story and forget everything else which not many do.
Off to read book one now, find out what I missed!
My enjoyment of this was not in the least affected by not having read it, and enjoy it I did.
I seem to have read quite a few books recently about opium addiction, but this is possibly my favourite.
Set in Singapore rather that India, it puts an entirely unique slant on the issue. It also gives a wonderful view of the area back in the 1940s. The description is so wonderful it felt like I was walking the streets.
I liked Batencourt. He worked hard and doesn't mind upsetting his superiors in as many ways as he can manage. He also doesn't give up when he knows he hasn't yet found the truth.
Some brilliant and some odious characters, all of them are well rounded and have their place in the story.
I really enjoyed reading this. I couldn't wait to get back to it when I had to put it down. It had the ability to immerse me in the story and forget everything else which not many do.
Off to read book one now, find out what I missed!
September 18, 2023
Singapore, 1940.
DI Betancourt is called to investigate the death of a man found underneath a fishing platform, tangled in a fishing net. Not a pretty sight. Despite the sea life already having a go at his face, Betancourt realises this is not a local man. A full investigation would be required, even though his superiors would rather brush the death under the carpet, wanting to write it off as an accident.
What follows is an immersive page turning historical crime thriller / police procedural. The author has described Singapore at this time extremely well. The people, the streets, the food.
Betancourt has to navigate superiors who are not keen on his investigation, horse racing, the opium trade and archaeologists all with a small side of love interest. He does most of the investigating without any assistance making him an easy target for those who want to stop him. His life is endangered more than once.
I raced through this book! Thoroughly enjoyed getting to know Betancourt and following his progress through the investigation. I look forward to his next case.
Thank you Hobeck books for my advance copy of the book and my spot on the blog tour.
DI Betancourt is called to investigate the death of a man found underneath a fishing platform, tangled in a fishing net. Not a pretty sight. Despite the sea life already having a go at his face, Betancourt realises this is not a local man. A full investigation would be required, even though his superiors would rather brush the death under the carpet, wanting to write it off as an accident.
What follows is an immersive page turning historical crime thriller / police procedural. The author has described Singapore at this time extremely well. The people, the streets, the food.
Betancourt has to navigate superiors who are not keen on his investigation, horse racing, the opium trade and archaeologists all with a small side of love interest. He does most of the investigating without any assistance making him an easy target for those who want to stop him. His life is endangered more than once.
I raced through this book! Thoroughly enjoyed getting to know Betancourt and following his progress through the investigation. I look forward to his next case.
Thank you Hobeck books for my advance copy of the book and my spot on the blog tour.
September 20, 2023
A fisherman makes a gruesome discovery when a rogue net becomes tangled on the leg of his kelong, his offshore fishing platform. The catch is the decomposing body of a white man.
Inspector Max Betancourt of the Marine Police is called in to sign off the case as a drowning, but Betancourt isn’t the kind of investigator to let things through on the nod, nor is Dr Evelyn Trevose, the police surgeon, who discovers a surprising cause of death.
We accompany Betancourt as he follows a trail of leads to identify the man and then to work out the how, why and whodunit of his murder.
At its heart, this novel is a police procedural, but it stands out from the crowd for many reasons, not least the rollcall of unique characters.
Betancourt has dealings with opium-addicted rickshaw drivers, opportunistic hoteliers, expert tailors, snooty archaeologists and licensed opium den proprietors; meets resistance from British Army top brass, the American consul and the Assistant Commissioner of Police; and relies on his own network of unlikely contacts, who include a racehorse trainer, a senior banker, a retired tin mine owner and a customs superintendent.
Betancourt himself is an engaging protagonist with a fascinating background. (I won’t say more as part of the treat for readers is discovering Betancourt for themselves.) His backstory – which occupied much of the first novel in the series – is given a lighter touch in the sequel, although there are brief recaps for previous readers and also enough to hook newcomers.
The focus this time around is on the investigation and this lends itself to a brisker pace. I very much enjoyed Waking the Tiger, Betancourt’s first outing, but with its attention on the central mystery, Chasing the Dragon is even better and set to be one of my top reads of the year.
What makes the novel a winner is its sense of time and place. Readers find themselves in the Singapore of 1940, a melting pot of Chinese, Malays, Indians and Europeans, where the British, and increasingly the Americans, assume their divine right to be the hand that stirs the cauldron.
The writer makes outstanding use of all five senses to describe his vibrant setting. We see the dense, pillar-like roots of an ancient banyan tree, hear the babble of activity at the docks, touch the thick dust that coats the urban streets, smell the cloying sweetness of an opium den, and taste delicious local food such as “sliced cabbage slathered in oyster sauce and sesame oil”. (My mouth is watering just reading that.)
Particularly skilful is the seasoning with italicised words in local languages. They add to the evocation of place and time, with meanings made clear in context and without the need for translation or lengthy explanation (although there is also a glossary at the end of the novel).
Sometimes humorous (jokes are often at the expense of Betancourt’s earnest but conscientious junior colleague, Quek); occasionally romantic (a nice will-they-won’t-they thread runs through Betancourt’s relationship with Evelyn); and often informative (despite providing the reader with a significant amount of history, it never feels like an information dump), the writing is mostly a sumptuous mix of the languorous and the explosive.
I highly recommend Chasing the Dragon.
With thanks to the author and publisher for the opportunity to read an early copy in exchange for an independent review.
Inspector Max Betancourt of the Marine Police is called in to sign off the case as a drowning, but Betancourt isn’t the kind of investigator to let things through on the nod, nor is Dr Evelyn Trevose, the police surgeon, who discovers a surprising cause of death.
We accompany Betancourt as he follows a trail of leads to identify the man and then to work out the how, why and whodunit of his murder.
At its heart, this novel is a police procedural, but it stands out from the crowd for many reasons, not least the rollcall of unique characters.
Betancourt has dealings with opium-addicted rickshaw drivers, opportunistic hoteliers, expert tailors, snooty archaeologists and licensed opium den proprietors; meets resistance from British Army top brass, the American consul and the Assistant Commissioner of Police; and relies on his own network of unlikely contacts, who include a racehorse trainer, a senior banker, a retired tin mine owner and a customs superintendent.
Betancourt himself is an engaging protagonist with a fascinating background. (I won’t say more as part of the treat for readers is discovering Betancourt for themselves.) His backstory – which occupied much of the first novel in the series – is given a lighter touch in the sequel, although there are brief recaps for previous readers and also enough to hook newcomers.
The focus this time around is on the investigation and this lends itself to a brisker pace. I very much enjoyed Waking the Tiger, Betancourt’s first outing, but with its attention on the central mystery, Chasing the Dragon is even better and set to be one of my top reads of the year.
What makes the novel a winner is its sense of time and place. Readers find themselves in the Singapore of 1940, a melting pot of Chinese, Malays, Indians and Europeans, where the British, and increasingly the Americans, assume their divine right to be the hand that stirs the cauldron.
The writer makes outstanding use of all five senses to describe his vibrant setting. We see the dense, pillar-like roots of an ancient banyan tree, hear the babble of activity at the docks, touch the thick dust that coats the urban streets, smell the cloying sweetness of an opium den, and taste delicious local food such as “sliced cabbage slathered in oyster sauce and sesame oil”. (My mouth is watering just reading that.)
Particularly skilful is the seasoning with italicised words in local languages. They add to the evocation of place and time, with meanings made clear in context and without the need for translation or lengthy explanation (although there is also a glossary at the end of the novel).
Sometimes humorous (jokes are often at the expense of Betancourt’s earnest but conscientious junior colleague, Quek); occasionally romantic (a nice will-they-won’t-they thread runs through Betancourt’s relationship with Evelyn); and often informative (despite providing the reader with a significant amount of history, it never feels like an information dump), the writing is mostly a sumptuous mix of the languorous and the explosive.
I highly recommend Chasing the Dragon.
With thanks to the author and publisher for the opportunity to read an early copy in exchange for an independent review.
September 20, 2023
My review for Chasing the Dragon
This is an interesting book to read as it’s set in Singapore and I have never read anything set there before. There are Singapore terms in the book with translations at the back which is very helpful, I found this at the end! I like the idea of a map in the book so you can see the island, shame it doesn’t expand on a kindle so I could read it. I liked the plot, which was very intriguing and had me glued to the book so I read the book in one sitting. I could imagine the riksaws running through the streets and the chaos that could be created, it was quite a scene in my head. I quite liked DI Betancourt, he sounded quite shabby with only one suit to wear but very determined to sleuth his case to the end and get his man no matter what. I love the cover of the book, very eye catching the red dragon and very appropriate as readers will find out.
In Singapore 1940, a body in a fishing net was found by a local fisherman and brought to Detective Inspector Betancourt of the Singapore Marine Police’s attention. The net was wrapped round the victim, it wasn’t suicide, it was murder. One for the crypt. And Betancourt learnt that Evelyn was back and he was so pleased but also hurt that she hadn’t told him. Later in the afternoon, he went to the crypt to learn what the postmortem results were and heard that the guy had 2 balls of opium in his stomach, poor quality ones.
He took a cutting from the man’s trousers with the tailor's name and of the cloth to see if he could get any details of the man's name that way. He went to Sam Fong the next day and was in luck, the guy’s name was Dr Fulbright, address was Mount Emily Road. He now had a name and knew he was to do with the museum so he went there. He got directed to Mem Ridpath, she worked with him so gave Betancourt more information including that he had moved but she didn’t know where to. He was up for the Farquhar Prize along with Mr Lenehan and the winner stood to win £5000.
He learns that Dr Fulbright had been having an affair with a married woman and her husband wasn’t impressed.
Why was Fulbright killed? Was it because of the affair? Or was it something else?
This is an interesting book to read as it’s set in Singapore and I have never read anything set there before. There are Singapore terms in the book with translations at the back which is very helpful, I found this at the end! I like the idea of a map in the book so you can see the island, shame it doesn’t expand on a kindle so I could read it. I liked the plot, which was very intriguing and had me glued to the book so I read the book in one sitting. I could imagine the riksaws running through the streets and the chaos that could be created, it was quite a scene in my head. I quite liked DI Betancourt, he sounded quite shabby with only one suit to wear but very determined to sleuth his case to the end and get his man no matter what. I love the cover of the book, very eye catching the red dragon and very appropriate as readers will find out.
In Singapore 1940, a body in a fishing net was found by a local fisherman and brought to Detective Inspector Betancourt of the Singapore Marine Police’s attention. The net was wrapped round the victim, it wasn’t suicide, it was murder. One for the crypt. And Betancourt learnt that Evelyn was back and he was so pleased but also hurt that she hadn’t told him. Later in the afternoon, he went to the crypt to learn what the postmortem results were and heard that the guy had 2 balls of opium in his stomach, poor quality ones.
He took a cutting from the man’s trousers with the tailor's name and of the cloth to see if he could get any details of the man's name that way. He went to Sam Fong the next day and was in luck, the guy’s name was Dr Fulbright, address was Mount Emily Road. He now had a name and knew he was to do with the museum so he went there. He got directed to Mem Ridpath, she worked with him so gave Betancourt more information including that he had moved but she didn’t know where to. He was up for the Farquhar Prize along with Mr Lenehan and the winner stood to win £5000.
He learns that Dr Fulbright had been having an affair with a married woman and her husband wasn’t impressed.
Why was Fulbright killed? Was it because of the affair? Or was it something else?
September 12, 2023
I was right in the mood for a really good historical thriller and this really hit the spot.
1940s Singapore and DI Betancourt of the Singapore Marine Police is tasked with uncovering the killer of an American archaeologist who has washed up in a local fishermen's nets.
Betancourt has to walk a tightrope as he negotiates the various politics at play while he works his way through the investigation coming up against everything from warring archaeologists to the British military police . He’s dogged but also really human and I particularly enjoyed the touches of lightness his wry humour brings to the story.
I’m a fan of books set in Asia but I don’t think I have read anything set in Singapore before so this immediately pulled me in and brought something fresh to the detective novel for me. The author skillfully creates a really vivid picture of time and place and while I know a lot of research must have gone into this novel, he makes it seem effortless and I was thoroughly immersed.
It's a great story too. Tighty plotted with plenty of drama and intrigue to keep the reader guessing till the end.
This is the second in the series and although I dived straight in without reading Waking the Tiger, I don’t think that caused any problems and certainly didn’t detract from my enjoyment of this one.
Really enjoyable read that I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend and I will certainly be going back to read the first instalment.
I can certainly see why this author is making awards shortlists
1940s Singapore and DI Betancourt of the Singapore Marine Police is tasked with uncovering the killer of an American archaeologist who has washed up in a local fishermen's nets.
Betancourt has to walk a tightrope as he negotiates the various politics at play while he works his way through the investigation coming up against everything from warring archaeologists to the British military police . He’s dogged but also really human and I particularly enjoyed the touches of lightness his wry humour brings to the story.
I’m a fan of books set in Asia but I don’t think I have read anything set in Singapore before so this immediately pulled me in and brought something fresh to the detective novel for me. The author skillfully creates a really vivid picture of time and place and while I know a lot of research must have gone into this novel, he makes it seem effortless and I was thoroughly immersed.
It's a great story too. Tighty plotted with plenty of drama and intrigue to keep the reader guessing till the end.
This is the second in the series and although I dived straight in without reading Waking the Tiger, I don’t think that caused any problems and certainly didn’t detract from my enjoyment of this one.
Really enjoyable read that I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend and I will certainly be going back to read the first instalment.
I can certainly see why this author is making awards shortlists
September 15, 2023
The second book in the Detective Inspector Betancourt of the Singapore Marine Police set in the 1940’s and it was as good as the first one. This series does remind me of one of my favourite series, The Malabar House by Vaseem Khan. This time Betancourt is woken with news that the body of a European has been found tangled in a fishing net. He is immediately suspicious that this isn’t an accidental death. Betancourt is a great character he is single minded about the truth regardless of who he has to go up against and isn’t shy of calling out authority. Alongside the crime it’s good to see Betancourt’s love interest back in the picture but is he going to blow it again!
Briefly, after identifying the body as American archaeologist Richard Fulbright and the method of death as opium poisoning it’s clear to Betancourt that this should be a murder investigation, but not everyone agrees with him and he comes up against a wall of silence, with his superiors happy with a death by misadventure verdict. But that’s not going to stop him…
The research is clearly in-depth and it shows. Having visited Singapore a number of times (obviously not in the 1940’s) I could very clearly envisage the place and the vivid descriptions filled in the gaps. A well written historical police procedural, great plotline and excellent characters. The red herrings worked and it took me a while to figure out who the murderer was and the reason for it. A very enjoyable read.
Briefly, after identifying the body as American archaeologist Richard Fulbright and the method of death as opium poisoning it’s clear to Betancourt that this should be a murder investigation, but not everyone agrees with him and he comes up against a wall of silence, with his superiors happy with a death by misadventure verdict. But that’s not going to stop him…
The research is clearly in-depth and it shows. Having visited Singapore a number of times (obviously not in the 1940’s) I could very clearly envisage the place and the vivid descriptions filled in the gaps. A well written historical police procedural, great plotline and excellent characters. The red herrings worked and it took me a while to figure out who the murderer was and the reason for it. A very enjoyable read.
September 18, 2023
Singapore, 1940.
A body of a man of European descent is found entangled in a fishing net.
When DI Betancourt begins investigating the crime, he soon discovers that it wasn’t an accident. The man’s body was wrapped in the net, and moreover, his stomach contents revealed two bags of adulterated opium.
The man was an archeologist, Dr Fulbright, who worked at the local museum. However, Betancourt discovered that the man left the lodgings provided by the museum and moved into a shabby hotel – why?
I won’t give much of the plot away, but please make sure to purchase this book. It is divine!
I loved the setting of the 1940s Singapore, it seemed exotic and dangerous. We encounter opium dens and find out more about Singapore’s archeology. The characters are great – I simply adore Betancourt!
There’s plenty of twists and turns, you think you know where everything is going, and then it turns out you were mistaken.
Overall, it’s a superbly written historical thriller.
I’m definitely recommend it.
A body of a man of European descent is found entangled in a fishing net.
When DI Betancourt begins investigating the crime, he soon discovers that it wasn’t an accident. The man’s body was wrapped in the net, and moreover, his stomach contents revealed two bags of adulterated opium.
The man was an archeologist, Dr Fulbright, who worked at the local museum. However, Betancourt discovered that the man left the lodgings provided by the museum and moved into a shabby hotel – why?
I won’t give much of the plot away, but please make sure to purchase this book. It is divine!
I loved the setting of the 1940s Singapore, it seemed exotic and dangerous. We encounter opium dens and find out more about Singapore’s archeology. The characters are great – I simply adore Betancourt!
There’s plenty of twists and turns, you think you know where everything is going, and then it turns out you were mistaken.
Overall, it’s a superbly written historical thriller.
I’m definitely recommend it.
March 2, 2024
"Chasing the Dragon" by Mark Wightman delivers a thrilling plunge into the vibrant streets of 1940s Singapore, where Detective Inspector Betancourt navigates a web of mystery and intrigue. As a fan of historical crime fiction, I was eager to immerse myself in this world, and I wasn't disappointed. Wightman's vivid prose effortlessly transports readers to colonial Singapore, teeming with life and danger at every turn. Betancourt, with his dogged determination and complex personal history, makes for a compelling protagonist, anchoring the narrative with his unwavering pursuit of the truth. While the plot unfolds with plenty of twists and turns, I couldn't shake the feeling of predictability that lingered throughout. Despite solid characterisation and an engaging storyline, "Chasing the Dragon" ultimately left me wanting more. It's a decent addition to the genre, but one that may fade into the background among the many other books of its kind.
September 14, 2023
Thank you to Hobeck Books and Mark Wightman for my advanced copy of Chasing The Dragon.
This is a follow up to the award winning Waking the Tiger. Chasing the Dragon takes place in 1940 Singapore with DI Betancourt of the Singapore Marine Police.
As part of his job, he is tasked to investigate a body that a local fisherman discovered tangled up in his nets. He soon discovers the identity of the body as a missing Archaeologist called Richard Fulbright. I like how Betancourt's character is portrayed with a sense of humour and the descriptions of the various locations made me believe I was in Singapore in this era. Betancourt is keen to learn if the Fulbright's death is due to rivalries or is it something else entirely? Could it be down to the Opium factories? To find out more, I recommend you buy a copy and find out for yourself.
This is a follow up to the award winning Waking the Tiger. Chasing the Dragon takes place in 1940 Singapore with DI Betancourt of the Singapore Marine Police.
As part of his job, he is tasked to investigate a body that a local fisherman discovered tangled up in his nets. He soon discovers the identity of the body as a missing Archaeologist called Richard Fulbright. I like how Betancourt's character is portrayed with a sense of humour and the descriptions of the various locations made me believe I was in Singapore in this era. Betancourt is keen to learn if the Fulbright's death is due to rivalries or is it something else entirely? Could it be down to the Opium factories? To find out more, I recommend you buy a copy and find out for yourself.
September 24, 2023
Chasing The Dragon is set in Singapore, 1940 and the book beautifully describes this multicultural country- the strict and strange societal structures, the smells, the foods, and the chaos. I loved this aspect of this book.
I received a copy of the book for a free and unbiased opinion.
Inspector Max Bettancourt is the main point of view character, and he drives the story as doggedly tries to find out of who has killed an American archaeologist. He continues to investigate this despite opposing bosses, bombs, people expecting racing tips and a complicated love life. Some of his interactions bring humour to the book.
There are also plenty of strong female characters with plenty of suspects and motives.
There is plenty of action and tension right till the end where poor Bettancourt hears some terrible news. and thankfully very little gore.
I received a copy of the book for a free and unbiased opinion.
Inspector Max Bettancourt is the main point of view character, and he drives the story as doggedly tries to find out of who has killed an American archaeologist. He continues to investigate this despite opposing bosses, bombs, people expecting racing tips and a complicated love life. Some of his interactions bring humour to the book.
There are also plenty of strong female characters with plenty of suspects and motives.
There is plenty of action and tension right till the end where poor Bettancourt hears some terrible news. and thankfully very little gore.
February 10, 2024
Set in 1940s Singapore, this is a great piece of detective fiction.
I particularly liked Inspector Betancourt of the Singapore Maritime Police - he is very real and fun to spend time with. He really needs to sort out his relationship with Evelyn though - someone needs to give him good kick up the arse and tell him to get on with it. She obviously likes him. A lot. And they work well together.
Following the discovery of a body wrapped in a fishing net, Betancourt has to investigate what soon turns out to be a murder rather than a simple case of drowning. Plenty of twists and some unexpected moments follow. Betancourt's own life is suddenly under threat.
Good fun.
I particularly liked Inspector Betancourt of the Singapore Maritime Police - he is very real and fun to spend time with. He really needs to sort out his relationship with Evelyn though - someone needs to give him good kick up the arse and tell him to get on with it. She obviously likes him. A lot. And they work well together.
Following the discovery of a body wrapped in a fishing net, Betancourt has to investigate what soon turns out to be a murder rather than a simple case of drowning. Plenty of twists and some unexpected moments follow. Betancourt's own life is suddenly under threat.
Good fun.
Read
July 3, 2024The second DI Maximo Betancourt novel, set in 1940's Singapore, CHASING THE DRAGON continues his story in close follow on from the earlier novel - WAKING THE TIGER. This novel could work as a standalone, but as with anything where the focus is on a main character, it's probably best to read them in order to get the full backstory and the reasons why Betancourt finds himself in his current professional and personal situation.
https://www.austcrimefiction.org/revi...
https://www.austcrimefiction.org/revi...
September 13, 2023
Detective Inspector Betancourt of the Singapore Marine Police is back. Once again Mark Wightman has excelled at taking us back in time to 1940's Singapore. Having read the first book, Waking The Tiger, I had been keen to reacquaint myself with Betancourt and I enjoyed this book so much. History, intrigue, crime, Opium.... what's not to like ? Keep writing Mark, I need more and more of this amazing series !
September 19, 2023
So real
And satisfying. Max Betancourt is back! He's trying to solve the murder of an American archeologist. Following the clues, Betancourt runs across people who represent both the highs and lows of Singapore society. Every detail is well placed.
I heartily recommend this book and hope there are more Max Betancourt adventures to come!
And satisfying. Max Betancourt is back! He's trying to solve the murder of an American archeologist. Following the clues, Betancourt runs across people who represent both the highs and lows of Singapore society. Every detail is well placed.
I heartily recommend this book and hope there are more Max Betancourt adventures to come!
February 4, 2024
This book is great and takes you to 1940s Singapore. Inspector Betancourt solves a case about opium. The book's details are well-researched. You can imagine the scenes, smells, and sounds. It uses 1940s language and shows the era's culture. The characters, like Betancourt, are realistic. The story is about solving a murder and facing danger. I really loved it.
May 21, 2024
Betancourt cannot resist investigating the death of a man found wrapped in a fishing net with opium in his system. The dead man is an archaeologist but Betancourt realizes that he was involved in something much more dangerous. There are several bad people involved, but the woman behind the opium plot is the most dangerous.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 14, 2023
Beautifully written
This is a beautifully written detective story that just sweeps you along to the finish. I really hope that volume 3 comes along soon. Do yourself a favour and read this book!
This is a beautifully written detective story that just sweeps you along to the finish. I really hope that volume 3 comes along soon. Do yourself a favour and read this book!
September 17, 2023
A fascinating insight into the opium trade in Singapore alongside the ongoing story of Bettancort. This is another great story by Mark, I cannot wait to see how the characters continue to evolve in book 3 4.5* from me
June 28, 2024
This is the second in the Inspector Betancourt series. Another solid read from Wightman and I am always a sucker for Asian settings circa 1930s/40s. Didn't enjoy it quite as much as Waking the Tiger - I think because I want Betancourt and Evelyn to sort out their relationship!
November 16, 2024
The Opium Dragon
The Opium Dragon
This is a book that tells of how evident the opium trade was not only involving the upper class but the professional era also. No one is immune to the illegal opium trade. Love, intrigue, and so much more. A really exciting read.
The Opium Dragon
This is a book that tells of how evident the opium trade was not only involving the upper class but the professional era also. No one is immune to the illegal opium trade. Love, intrigue, and so much more. A really exciting read.
May 25, 2025
A Well Written Mystery that Captures Singapore in 1940
What I most loved about this story was its sense of place. Singapore in the lead up to World War 2 is alive and vibrant under the rich vocabulary and descriptive writing of the author.
What I most loved about this story was its sense of place. Singapore in the lead up to World War 2 is alive and vibrant under the rich vocabulary and descriptive writing of the author.
November 20, 2023
My review for the Historical Novels Society:
https://historicalnovelsociety.org/re...
https://historicalnovelsociety.org/re...
February 15, 2024
A fitting sequel to Waking The Tiger. I look forward to the next Inspector Betancourt mystery and will recommend this series to everyone who enjoys Asian Crime Drama.
April 23, 2024
After the surprise of the excellent debut, a very solid sophomore book presenting the same backdrop and characters but with a new and gripping plot.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews