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Dead Man's Run: A 1950 Israel Military Thriller
The war may have ended, but the cover-ups never did.
Israel 1950. SIB Captain Ash Carter is called into the British 'embassy' to report on the death-in-service of a consular officer. Despite assurances that there is nothing suspicious, Carter begins a challenging investigation - one that the authorities disprove of. And the deeper he digs, the more complex it appears.
Meeting an Israeli private detective, investigating a linked crime, Carter forms an uneasy alliance. Together, they uncover something too shocking to be believed without hard proof. With the highest of political stakes, distrust at every turn, deceit, kidnapping and murder, Carter must find a balance between the law, justice and revenge.
Dead Man's Run is the fifth historical crime novel in the Ash Carter Near East series but can be read as a stand-alone
Israel 1950. SIB Captain Ash Carter is called into the British 'embassy' to report on the death-in-service of a consular officer. Despite assurances that there is nothing suspicious, Carter begins a challenging investigation - one that the authorities disprove of. And the deeper he digs, the more complex it appears.
Meeting an Israeli private detective, investigating a linked crime, Carter forms an uneasy alliance. Together, they uncover something too shocking to be believed without hard proof. With the highest of political stakes, distrust at every turn, deceit, kidnapping and murder, Carter must find a balance between the law, justice and revenge.
Dead Man's Run is the fifth historical crime novel in the Ash Carter Near East series but can be read as a stand-alone
371 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 25, 2026
About the author
Murray Bailey
27 books521 followersMurray Bailey was always interested in writing and, at an early age, had articles published in newspapers, including the Times. Despite studying Physics and Mathematics and pursuing a very different career, he also edited a magazine for a year as well as a batch of technical books.
After 10 years of scribbling, in 2016 his first published novel was I Dare You. He went on to demonstrate his passion for ancient Egypt and puzzles in his novel Map of the Dead. However the Singapore series featuring the ex-military policeman Ash Carter was a labour of love and based on his first unpublished story that eventually became Singapore 52.
Born in Greater Manchester, England, he gradually moved south to reach the beautiful Dorset coast where he lives with his wife and family. Having young children and an all-consuming passion such as writing doesn’t leave much free time, but when he does take a break, he enjoys running, cycling, kayaking and building sandcastles with his children.
After 10 years of scribbling, in 2016 his first published novel was I Dare You. He went on to demonstrate his passion for ancient Egypt and puzzles in his novel Map of the Dead. However the Singapore series featuring the ex-military policeman Ash Carter was a labour of love and based on his first unpublished story that eventually became Singapore 52.
Born in Greater Manchester, England, he gradually moved south to reach the beautiful Dorset coast where he lives with his wife and family. Having young children and an all-consuming passion such as writing doesn’t leave much free time, but when he does take a break, he enjoys running, cycling, kayaking and building sandcastles with his children.
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
September 27, 2026
Another fast paced, action packed thriller from Murray Bailey.
I am such a huge fan of Murray’s writing and his characters feel like old friends.
Ash Carter is a military investigator, and in this outing he is called to dot the i’s and cross the t’s on a suicide.
However, in Ash’s dog with a bone style he uncovers not only the fact it was not a suicide, but a huge forgery business where loose ends seem to be getting tied off.
I was delighted that Ash’s friend and colleague Bill Wolfe turns up in this one.
The perfectly described setting in 1950’s Israel sucked me right in to the action.
My heart was pounding so many times as Ash gets himself into a fair few situations requiring his boxing training to be used.
There is no dip in the middle of the book and no unnecessary fillers just non stop action all the way which ramps up even further towards the end.
Oh and the pointy ears had me giggling!
Phew I feel I have done a few rounds with Mike Tyson but in a good way!
And I have a favourite line from the book. How’s this for a page turning quote:
‘Mayhem was coming and it was on a timer’
Yes! I’m here for the mayhem!
Could this be Murray’s best book yet?
Can’t wait for more!
Thanks to Murray for an advance copy of Dead Man’s Run and for having me n the blog tour.
I am such a huge fan of Murray’s writing and his characters feel like old friends.
Ash Carter is a military investigator, and in this outing he is called to dot the i’s and cross the t’s on a suicide.
However, in Ash’s dog with a bone style he uncovers not only the fact it was not a suicide, but a huge forgery business where loose ends seem to be getting tied off.
I was delighted that Ash’s friend and colleague Bill Wolfe turns up in this one.
The perfectly described setting in 1950’s Israel sucked me right in to the action.
My heart was pounding so many times as Ash gets himself into a fair few situations requiring his boxing training to be used.
There is no dip in the middle of the book and no unnecessary fillers just non stop action all the way which ramps up even further towards the end.
Oh and the pointy ears had me giggling!
Phew I feel I have done a few rounds with Mike Tyson but in a good way!
And I have a favourite line from the book. How’s this for a page turning quote:
‘Mayhem was coming and it was on a timer’
Yes! I’m here for the mayhem!
Could this be Murray’s best book yet?
Can’t wait for more!
Thanks to Murray for an advance copy of Dead Man’s Run and for having me n the blog tour.
Review of advance copy received from Author
It's 1950 and Captain Ash Carter is in Tel Aviv when James Morton, the Consular Officer responsible for visas and passports, is found dead. Carter believes there may be more to it than meets the eye. The official line is 'no suspicious circumstances' but as Carter begins to dig deeper he discovers evidence leaving him to believe the man was murdered.
I've read quite a few Ash Carter books and never once been disappointed. Dead Man's Run is another excellent read and a great addition to the Near East series.
During 1950, Israel was experiencing significant political and economic unrest. The author expertly incorporates this into the book with great skill and knowledge. You're made to feel part of everything that's occurring. The plot is fast-paced with plenty of action and the main characters are fully developed. Once again Carter risks his life and faces perilous danger as he attempts to establish who killed James Morton and why.
Although part of a series, Dead Man's Run works equally well as standalone read. I've experienced many adventures with Captain Carter and each one has been a thrilling ride. I think this book is my favourite so far. . . but I say that every time a new one is published lol. It's a series I enjoy immensely and I hope new readers will discover it too.
I've read quite a few Ash Carter books and never once been disappointed. Dead Man's Run is another excellent read and a great addition to the Near East series.
During 1950, Israel was experiencing significant political and economic unrest. The author expertly incorporates this into the book with great skill and knowledge. You're made to feel part of everything that's occurring. The plot is fast-paced with plenty of action and the main characters are fully developed. Once again Carter risks his life and faces perilous danger as he attempts to establish who killed James Morton and why.
Although part of a series, Dead Man's Run works equally well as standalone read. I've experienced many adventures with Captain Carter and each one has been a thrilling ride. I think this book is my favourite so far. . . but I say that every time a new one is published lol. It's a series I enjoy immensely and I hope new readers will discover it too.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Dead Man's Run is book number 5 in the Ash Carter Near East series and to my mind this is the best one yet.
Called in to investigate a simple death, Ash soon begins to believe that something doesn't smell right. His subsequent investigation in a semi-collaboration with a shady local private detective throws Ash and his new sidekick into another battle for justice that will threaten both their lives.
An excellent, tensely written, detective tale that fully embraces the local sights and sounds of post wwII israel.
I loved the story and also the character driven background that makes each of Bailey's characters feel fully rounded and generates a real feeling for them with the reader.
Nothing is ever how it seems and the author keeps his audience guessing throughout
Called in to investigate a simple death, Ash soon begins to believe that something doesn't smell right. His subsequent investigation in a semi-collaboration with a shady local private detective throws Ash and his new sidekick into another battle for justice that will threaten both their lives.
An excellent, tensely written, detective tale that fully embraces the local sights and sounds of post wwII israel.
I loved the story and also the character driven background that makes each of Bailey's characters feel fully rounded and generates a real feeling for them with the reader.
Nothing is ever how it seems and the author keeps his audience guessing throughout
September 22, 2026
Tel Aviv, 1950. With the British Government just about to recognise the state of Israel, and establish its first official embassy, the last thing they need is an inconvenient dead body. So when Consular Officer, James Morton is found slumped over his desk one morning at the adminstration offce, it falls to SIB Captain Ash Carter to discover if his death was the simple suicide it appears, or something much darker.
Before long, Carter is convinced that the suicide story is just a cover-up. His attempt to get to the truth brings him into contact with an Israeli private detective - a former Hungarian Jew whose motives for being in Tel Aviv are murky. Carter is not sure whether he can trust this man, but their partnership reveals a conspiracy that is truly shocking. The war may be over, but its legacy is very much alive and well in Israel...
Captain Ash Carter is back in his fifth Near East prequel adventure. When an embarrassing situation threatens to derail sensitive political arrangements, Carter is just the man to get to the truth - even if the powers that be are keen for the affair to be swept under the carpet. Carter being Carter, he is soon blurring the lines between his official remit and his own brand of righteousness, in the characteristically loose-cannon way I know and love.
Tugging on loose ends that do not fit the suicide narrative, Carter's investigation drives the seductively slow-burn plot, unravelling a many layered conspiracy around a clandestine network helping some very bad people escape from the consequences of their crimes. The Ian Fleming meets Frederick Forsyth vibes are strong in this instalment, and I thoroughly enjoyed the clash of politically motivated shenanigans, cold-hearted greed, and single-minded retribution that dogs Carter's crusade for justice. The tension rises, and twists and turns abound as he travels all over Israel, going places he should not (including the bed of a smarmy American opponent's wife); upsets stuffy officials and dangerous enemies alike; discovers uncomfortable secrets; and reconnects with familiar faces for a good old rescue mission. There are lovely echoing themes of guilt, shame, and revenge, and a well-judged level of emotional content too.
I always know I am in for an entertaining ride in one of Murray's books. and this was no exception. It can be read as a stand-alone, but I highly recommend taking in the other Ash Carter Near East thrillers to enhance the experience - and then moving on the the Singapore-based Ash Carter thrillers, and the brand new Philippines books as well... oh, and do not miss out on the BlackJack trilogy... if intelligent plots, charismatic protagonists, and plenty of mid-twentueth century action are your bag!
Before long, Carter is convinced that the suicide story is just a cover-up. His attempt to get to the truth brings him into contact with an Israeli private detective - a former Hungarian Jew whose motives for being in Tel Aviv are murky. Carter is not sure whether he can trust this man, but their partnership reveals a conspiracy that is truly shocking. The war may be over, but its legacy is very much alive and well in Israel...
Captain Ash Carter is back in his fifth Near East prequel adventure. When an embarrassing situation threatens to derail sensitive political arrangements, Carter is just the man to get to the truth - even if the powers that be are keen for the affair to be swept under the carpet. Carter being Carter, he is soon blurring the lines between his official remit and his own brand of righteousness, in the characteristically loose-cannon way I know and love.
Tugging on loose ends that do not fit the suicide narrative, Carter's investigation drives the seductively slow-burn plot, unravelling a many layered conspiracy around a clandestine network helping some very bad people escape from the consequences of their crimes. The Ian Fleming meets Frederick Forsyth vibes are strong in this instalment, and I thoroughly enjoyed the clash of politically motivated shenanigans, cold-hearted greed, and single-minded retribution that dogs Carter's crusade for justice. The tension rises, and twists and turns abound as he travels all over Israel, going places he should not (including the bed of a smarmy American opponent's wife); upsets stuffy officials and dangerous enemies alike; discovers uncomfortable secrets; and reconnects with familiar faces for a good old rescue mission. There are lovely echoing themes of guilt, shame, and revenge, and a well-judged level of emotional content too.
I always know I am in for an entertaining ride in one of Murray's books. and this was no exception. It can be read as a stand-alone, but I highly recommend taking in the other Ash Carter Near East thrillers to enhance the experience - and then moving on the the Singapore-based Ash Carter thrillers, and the brand new Philippines books as well... oh, and do not miss out on the BlackJack trilogy... if intelligent plots, charismatic protagonists, and plenty of mid-twentueth century action are your bag!
August 25, 2026
A fast-paced historical thriller packed with twists, intrigue and plenty of action!
Set in 1950 Israel, Captain Ash Carter is working around the newly established British mission, just months before the UK is due to formally recognise the State of Israel.
When Consular Officer James Morton is found dead at his desk, it initially appears to be a heart attack. But Ash isn’t convinced. When cyanide is discovered in Morton’s blood, it becomes clear that this is murder, but it wasn’t poison! Ash needs to find out why.
As he begins investigating, the case becomes increasingly complicated. Morton had been meeting someone identified only as “H”, Julie Green, who discovered his body, disappears, and then Ash’s friend DI Rosen is brutally murdered. There are also fake passports, suspected war criminals, foreign currency and people who seem to have something to hide.
The more Ash investigates, the less he knows who he can trust. Just when I thought I had worked out who might be involved, another twist came along and made me question everything again. The criminals always seemed to be one step ahead, keeping the tension high throughout.
I really enjoyed this book. It is fast-paced, suspenseful and adrenaline-fuelled, with plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing right until the end. The historical setting also adds another layer to the story, particularly with the political tensions surrounding the new State of Israel and the opening of the British Embassy.
If you enjoy historical thrillers, espionage, murder mysteries and plenty of intrigue, I highly recommend this one.
And if you haven’t met Ash Carter before, don’t worry, this can be read as a standalone. Although, after this one, you may well want to go back and discover his other adventures!
Set in 1950 Israel, Captain Ash Carter is working around the newly established British mission, just months before the UK is due to formally recognise the State of Israel.
When Consular Officer James Morton is found dead at his desk, it initially appears to be a heart attack. But Ash isn’t convinced. When cyanide is discovered in Morton’s blood, it becomes clear that this is murder, but it wasn’t poison! Ash needs to find out why.
As he begins investigating, the case becomes increasingly complicated. Morton had been meeting someone identified only as “H”, Julie Green, who discovered his body, disappears, and then Ash’s friend DI Rosen is brutally murdered. There are also fake passports, suspected war criminals, foreign currency and people who seem to have something to hide.
The more Ash investigates, the less he knows who he can trust. Just when I thought I had worked out who might be involved, another twist came along and made me question everything again. The criminals always seemed to be one step ahead, keeping the tension high throughout.
I really enjoyed this book. It is fast-paced, suspenseful and adrenaline-fuelled, with plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing right until the end. The historical setting also adds another layer to the story, particularly with the political tensions surrounding the new State of Israel and the opening of the British Embassy.
If you enjoy historical thrillers, espionage, murder mysteries and plenty of intrigue, I highly recommend this one.
And if you haven’t met Ash Carter before, don’t worry, this can be read as a standalone. Although, after this one, you may well want to go back and discover his other adventures!
Review of advance copy received from Author
The fifth historical crime novel in the Ash Carter Near East series but can be read as a stand-alone. It is 1950 and Ash Carter who works for the British Special Investigation Branch is based in Tel Aviv as the British prepare to open their Embassy, following the transfer of power to Israel.
Briefly, a senior official at the Consulate is found murdered behind a locked door and Ash is called to investigate. With no obvious suspect he uses his local contacts to try and establish a motive. Digging fast and deep, and working with an Israeli private detective, he discovers a network involved in both forging passports and moving Nazi party members out of Europe. The conspirators are determined to eliminate anyone who gets in their way and there is an increasing number of bodies left in their wake. With quite a few corrupt officials as well Carter simply doesn’t know who to trust.
An adrenaline fuelled adventure yarn with an explosive ending. Ash is a great character who does seem to get himself into a lot of trouble! Plenty of twists and turns that keep me guessing. A good fast paced political/military thriller.
Briefly, a senior official at the Consulate is found murdered behind a locked door and Ash is called to investigate. With no obvious suspect he uses his local contacts to try and establish a motive. Digging fast and deep, and working with an Israeli private detective, he discovers a network involved in both forging passports and moving Nazi party members out of Europe. The conspirators are determined to eliminate anyone who gets in their way and there is an increasing number of bodies left in their wake. With quite a few corrupt officials as well Carter simply doesn’t know who to trust.
An adrenaline fuelled adventure yarn with an explosive ending. Ash is a great character who does seem to get himself into a lot of trouble! Plenty of twists and turns that keep me guessing. A good fast paced political/military thriller.
September 25, 2026
My Thoughts: Ash Carter has become a comfort character for me I get so excited whenever Murray messages me with another instalment!
Historical books aren’t normally for me, but Murray has a way of making them historically accurate whilst making the writing feel modern day which helps me to not get overwhelmed by everything and just enjoy it for what it is!
In this one Ash is brought in to investigate the death of James Morton, a very important political figure, the story being sold is suicide, but when looking at the scene something starts niggling at him that James was murdered, small clues that the average person wouldn’t notice.. can he put all these clues together and get the full picture?
Very quickly he realises that it will take more than just him so he uses his contacts which brings some familiar faces into the series! – I think I actually squealed when a certain person showed his face.
This book was slow paced compared to other Ash Carter books, but it fit well for the story, the tension was high and I was gripped all the way through.
I’m starting to think that maybe Ash can do no wrong, I’m already eagerly awaiting the next adventure he takes us on
Historical books aren’t normally for me, but Murray has a way of making them historically accurate whilst making the writing feel modern day which helps me to not get overwhelmed by everything and just enjoy it for what it is!
In this one Ash is brought in to investigate the death of James Morton, a very important political figure, the story being sold is suicide, but when looking at the scene something starts niggling at him that James was murdered, small clues that the average person wouldn’t notice.. can he put all these clues together and get the full picture?
Very quickly he realises that it will take more than just him so he uses his contacts which brings some familiar faces into the series! – I think I actually squealed when a certain person showed his face.
This book was slow paced compared to other Ash Carter books, but it fit well for the story, the tension was high and I was gripped all the way through.
I’m starting to think that maybe Ash can do no wrong, I’m already eagerly awaiting the next adventure he takes us on
September 28, 2026
This is the fifth book in the Ash Carter Near East series & can be read as a standalone, but don’t do that. Read the previous four, to see how Carter has got to where he is & why he is alone.
Israel 1950. SIB Captain Ash Carter is called into the British ‘embassy’ as a high ranking consular official has been found dead in his office. It is clear that the higher-ups just want it rubber stamped & quickly signed off. Carter has experience in these matters & swiftly realises it needs investigating much to the annoyance of the authorities. They do not want to cause waves at this historically sensitive time but Carter is determined.
During the course of his enquiries, it is more than apparent that a web of criminal activity is at play with false documentation, counterfeit currency & political posturing all involved. Even Ash is sucked in, not knowing who to trust - new acquaintances & old.
A great read as always, & it was lovely to meet Bill Wolfe again. Full of historical fact & intrigue, mixed with a cracking pace & a main character that you feel invested in. Recommended.
Israel 1950. SIB Captain Ash Carter is called into the British ‘embassy’ as a high ranking consular official has been found dead in his office. It is clear that the higher-ups just want it rubber stamped & quickly signed off. Carter has experience in these matters & swiftly realises it needs investigating much to the annoyance of the authorities. They do not want to cause waves at this historically sensitive time but Carter is determined.
During the course of his enquiries, it is more than apparent that a web of criminal activity is at play with false documentation, counterfeit currency & political posturing all involved. Even Ash is sucked in, not knowing who to trust - new acquaintances & old.
A great read as always, & it was lovely to meet Bill Wolfe again. Full of historical fact & intrigue, mixed with a cracking pace & a main character that you feel invested in. Recommended.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Dead Man’s Run is the fifth book in the Ash Carter historical crime series; however, it can easily be read as a stand-alone story.
The setting is 1950s Israel. Ash Carter works for the British Special Investigation Branch and works with a group who are building the new British Embassy. Ash is called in when a consular officer is found dead. He’s told to keep his investigations discreet, but when evidence points to murder rather than the initial assumptions about suicide, Ash uncovers a trail of danger, fraud and kidnapping.
Set in the shadows of post Second World War and in an unstable part of the world, this is an exciting background for this tale. There is power and money to be made by those who dare. Ash must also weave his way through complex political influences.
Ash Carter was a likable character, and I enjoyed the era that this story was set in.
The setting is 1950s Israel. Ash Carter works for the British Special Investigation Branch and works with a group who are building the new British Embassy. Ash is called in when a consular officer is found dead. He’s told to keep his investigations discreet, but when evidence points to murder rather than the initial assumptions about suicide, Ash uncovers a trail of danger, fraud and kidnapping.
Set in the shadows of post Second World War and in an unstable part of the world, this is an exciting background for this tale. There is power and money to be made by those who dare. Ash must also weave his way through complex political influences.
Ash Carter was a likable character, and I enjoyed the era that this story was set in.
Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews