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Fiji Islands Mysteries #1
Death on Paradise Island
Death on Paradise Island is the first book in the Fiji Islands Mystery Series,
introducing Inspector Josefa Horseman and Sergeant Susila Singh of the Fiji Police Force
.
A girl’s body is found snagged on the coral reef at Fiji’s high-end Paradise Island resort, after festivities for a new marine reserve. Detective Joe Horseman, his rugby career wrecked by a shattered knee, no sooner lands at Suva airport after a year in the U.S. than he’s packed off to investigate. While Horseman is in two minds about his future, Sergeant Susila Singh is ambitious and on her way up. To solve what seems an inexplicable death, they must together drag to the surface secrets that have no place in paradise.
introducing Inspector Josefa Horseman and Sergeant Susila Singh of the Fiji Police Force
.
A girl’s body is found snagged on the coral reef at Fiji’s high-end Paradise Island resort, after festivities for a new marine reserve. Detective Joe Horseman, his rugby career wrecked by a shattered knee, no sooner lands at Suva airport after a year in the U.S. than he’s packed off to investigate. While Horseman is in two minds about his future, Sergeant Susila Singh is ambitious and on her way up. To solve what seems an inexplicable death, they must together drag to the surface secrets that have no place in paradise.
360 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 14, 2016
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 113 reviews
August 31, 2019
An enjoyable crime novel, set in the beautiful islands of Fiji. It centres around newly promoted Detective Inspector Horseman, a Fijian Rugby idol, who leads the investigation into the death of a maid on an exclusive island resort. It is the first a the series by Aussie author BM Allsopp, and shows promise for the future books in the series.
February 20, 2021
Singh had never set foot on an island resort before. It was a world apart from the chaos of Fiji’s overcrowded towns and the stifling labour of rural life, even on picture-perfect small islands. As far as she could see, life on Paradise was a far better one, even for the staff. No, especially for the staff…
Josefa Horseman returns to Suva Police from Portland, Oregon, still recovering from a knee reconstruction, and is widely-feted as a Rugby international. Now promoted to DI he is teamed with Sikh DS Susila Singh, to investigate the death of a young house maid, Nisi, working at a boutique island resort managed by a New Zealand couple. Before an autopsy can take place the girl’s parents arrive from the neighbouring island home to clean and prepare the body for burial, and her death opens up a raft of hidden secrets.
As well as the resorts guests and staff, the island is host to a camp of marine biologists, led by an American professor: the lagoon’s declaration as a marine reserve unpopular with those engaged in traditional fishing methods. Joe has to adjust to Fiji-life, where staff, equipment and communications are limited: typewriters still in use as they don’t go down in power outages, his mother rarely turns on her mobile phone, and those without a landline use the only public phone in the village to ring the neighbour of a relative to pass on a message. Then there’s the traffic.
In front of the police car, an overloaded taxi, its rear just clearing the roadway, coughed up a dense cloud when the driver accelerated. Horseman’s respiratory system rejected the acrid poison and he coughed too. His driver closed the windows, trapping the fumes inside. ‘They’ve got clean air over in the States, have they, Detective Inspector?’
Horseman just managed to croak. ‘Man, half the vehicles in Suva would be off the road in the U.S.’ More coughs racked him.
‘You’ll toughen up now you’re home, sir.’
This was a totally refreshing murder mystery, with well-drawn characters, shady dealings and offers wonderful insights into Fiji’s history, its customs and traditions (especially feasts), a political structure headed by Ratu (local chieftains), the role of sport in the community, and its delicate ecosystems. Horseman’s own ancestry is explained.
‘There are a lot of us now, and we’re officially classified in Fiji as kailoma, part-European. The leaves on my branch are mostly Fijians, so I look Fijian. I’ve cousins in Australia who look completely European. We’re all Horsemans, though.’
The author has spent several years in the South Pacific and supplies a map of the main islands and helpful hints to the pronunciation. Neither a ‘cosy’ mystery, nor thriller, the story reaches a heart-stopping climax. Well recommended.
Josefa Horseman returns to Suva Police from Portland, Oregon, still recovering from a knee reconstruction, and is widely-feted as a Rugby international. Now promoted to DI he is teamed with Sikh DS Susila Singh, to investigate the death of a young house maid, Nisi, working at a boutique island resort managed by a New Zealand couple. Before an autopsy can take place the girl’s parents arrive from the neighbouring island home to clean and prepare the body for burial, and her death opens up a raft of hidden secrets.
As well as the resorts guests and staff, the island is host to a camp of marine biologists, led by an American professor: the lagoon’s declaration as a marine reserve unpopular with those engaged in traditional fishing methods. Joe has to adjust to Fiji-life, where staff, equipment and communications are limited: typewriters still in use as they don’t go down in power outages, his mother rarely turns on her mobile phone, and those without a landline use the only public phone in the village to ring the neighbour of a relative to pass on a message. Then there’s the traffic.
In front of the police car, an overloaded taxi, its rear just clearing the roadway, coughed up a dense cloud when the driver accelerated. Horseman’s respiratory system rejected the acrid poison and he coughed too. His driver closed the windows, trapping the fumes inside. ‘They’ve got clean air over in the States, have they, Detective Inspector?’
Horseman just managed to croak. ‘Man, half the vehicles in Suva would be off the road in the U.S.’ More coughs racked him.
‘You’ll toughen up now you’re home, sir.’
This was a totally refreshing murder mystery, with well-drawn characters, shady dealings and offers wonderful insights into Fiji’s history, its customs and traditions (especially feasts), a political structure headed by Ratu (local chieftains), the role of sport in the community, and its delicate ecosystems. Horseman’s own ancestry is explained.
‘There are a lot of us now, and we’re officially classified in Fiji as kailoma, part-European. The leaves on my branch are mostly Fijians, so I look Fijian. I’ve cousins in Australia who look completely European. We’re all Horsemans, though.’
The author has spent several years in the South Pacific and supplies a map of the main islands and helpful hints to the pronunciation. Neither a ‘cosy’ mystery, nor thriller, the story reaches a heart-stopping climax. Well recommended.
February 22, 2021
Locating this book in Fiji saved the story from being a hackneyed crime novel. The book covers some Fijian culture, problems in its society, the love of rugby, and people's relationship with their village, family and church.
The book features a detective who is also a famous rugby player and his Fiji-Indian offsider; the two of them basically represent 95% of Fiji's population. The crime is the death of a young local woman at a resort. There's a few red herrings to make the story move along although the dialogue was sometimes quite lengthy and humdrum.
The book features a detective who is also a famous rugby player and his Fiji-Indian offsider; the two of them basically represent 95% of Fiji's population. The crime is the death of a young local woman at a resort. There's a few red herrings to make the story move along although the dialogue was sometimes quite lengthy and humdrum.
January 24, 2019
I did not finish. The book seems to be well-written but the characters just didn't capture my interest or compassion.
October 13, 2022
This was a tad slow at times but I think it gave a very accurate picture of life in Fiji.
August 6, 2019
First in a series of novels based in Fiji, DEATH ON PARADISE ISLAND introduces Inspector Josefa Horseman and Sergeant Susila Singh of the Fiji Police Force, alongside a cast of supporting police characters, set elegantly within the local society and culture.
Readers are introduced to Horseman as a local hero - not because of his policing credentials, he's more admired for his rugby playing, despite his career having been curtailed by a shattered knee. He's from a big family, who live with the traditions and rituals of their culture, ruled by his strong, independent, and forthright mother, part of a wider society for which rugby is all consuming. But the traditional celebrations planned by the family on his return from the US are interrupted by the discovery of a young local girl's body, a worker at the resort located beside the coral reef where her body is found snagged. Horseman finds himself leading the investigation into her death, and meeting his new offsider, Sergeant Susila Singh, before he's even had a chance to unpack, so his family will have to wait until he's able to solve what quickly becomes a complicated, knotty case.
On the gentler side of crime fiction, this debut novel, has excellent balance between plot, character and setting. The plot is nicely twisty, with doubt over everything about this young girl's death. Not exactly closed room, despite her death on a small island, there are more than enough feasible suspects with no particularly obvious reasons to be involved in her suspicious death. The main characters are strongly executed with just enough of the personal and professional to give you an opportunity to get to know Horseman, and hopefully more to come on Singh in upcoming books. There's a tremendous sense of place and culture about the book as well, with a tropical climate, a laid-back approach to life, and enough local problems to make it believable.
The author of this series, B.M. Allsopp lived for sometime firstly in PNG and then in Fiji and she obviously has great affection for this place, without over-egging the perfection. It's cleverly done, most observation is through the eyes of the local hero, recently returned, with no rose-coloured glasses in sight. Horseman is a central character with considerable series potential, nothing like some (okay so this reader) might have expected of a rugby playing, police inspector.
Definitely a series to keep an eye on, the second book DEATH BY TRADITION is available now as well.
https://www.austcrimefiction.org/revi...
Readers are introduced to Horseman as a local hero - not because of his policing credentials, he's more admired for his rugby playing, despite his career having been curtailed by a shattered knee. He's from a big family, who live with the traditions and rituals of their culture, ruled by his strong, independent, and forthright mother, part of a wider society for which rugby is all consuming. But the traditional celebrations planned by the family on his return from the US are interrupted by the discovery of a young local girl's body, a worker at the resort located beside the coral reef where her body is found snagged. Horseman finds himself leading the investigation into her death, and meeting his new offsider, Sergeant Susila Singh, before he's even had a chance to unpack, so his family will have to wait until he's able to solve what quickly becomes a complicated, knotty case.
On the gentler side of crime fiction, this debut novel, has excellent balance between plot, character and setting. The plot is nicely twisty, with doubt over everything about this young girl's death. Not exactly closed room, despite her death on a small island, there are more than enough feasible suspects with no particularly obvious reasons to be involved in her suspicious death. The main characters are strongly executed with just enough of the personal and professional to give you an opportunity to get to know Horseman, and hopefully more to come on Singh in upcoming books. There's a tremendous sense of place and culture about the book as well, with a tropical climate, a laid-back approach to life, and enough local problems to make it believable.
The author of this series, B.M. Allsopp lived for sometime firstly in PNG and then in Fiji and she obviously has great affection for this place, without over-egging the perfection. It's cleverly done, most observation is through the eyes of the local hero, recently returned, with no rose-coloured glasses in sight. Horseman is a central character with considerable series potential, nothing like some (okay so this reader) might have expected of a rugby playing, police inspector.
Definitely a series to keep an eye on, the second book DEATH BY TRADITION is available now as well.
https://www.austcrimefiction.org/revi...
January 2, 2019
This book I picked up because a book challenge said we had to read a book with 'Fiji' in it and wow, do I not regret this at all. This book was a well-thought out detective book with an interesting main character and a well-paced plot.
In this book, Joe Horseman is on leave from his rugby career after a severe injury and is back in Fiji as a policeman. As soon as he comes back, he is called to investigate the apparent drowning of a young woman on an island resort, so called 'Paradise Island'. Through the points of views mainly of Joe Horseman and Susie Singh, the detective working with him, we follow the investigation and learn more about each of the characters involved, including the dead woman, Nisi.
In detective novels like these, I find for the setting to work the book has to shown the place it's in. If the plot could work elsewhere, then the setting hasn't been fully incorporated. And this book definitely succeeded. I have never been to Fiji but in this book, the description of, not only the beautiful natural scenery, but the cities and how people live made me feel like I had already been. Joe Horseman is being reintroduced to Fiji throughout the book as a police detective/returning rugby hero and is a contrast to Susie Singh, an Indian woman who has been working her way up the Fiji police force and is regarded as a second-class citizen by many Fijians. The setting went really nicely with how the use of language was woven into the story, with Horseman using language as a way of crossing barriers through his time interviewing suspects and witnesses.
The actual plot was interesting without too many twists and turns that would just leave you confused. I liked how all the signs were pointing towards who had done it but I didn't guess until right near the end, especially with the small twist near the end of the book. Horseman and Singh made a really good team and I look forward to seeing more of them in the next book, plus Horseman's obvious respect for Singh in a profession where there aren't a lot of women made me warm up to him fast.
I was so appreciative that this series was on Kindle Unlimited because I think if I had to spend money on it, I would have missed out on this series completely. 4.5 stars!
In this book, Joe Horseman is on leave from his rugby career after a severe injury and is back in Fiji as a policeman. As soon as he comes back, he is called to investigate the apparent drowning of a young woman on an island resort, so called 'Paradise Island'. Through the points of views mainly of Joe Horseman and Susie Singh, the detective working with him, we follow the investigation and learn more about each of the characters involved, including the dead woman, Nisi.
In detective novels like these, I find for the setting to work the book has to shown the place it's in. If the plot could work elsewhere, then the setting hasn't been fully incorporated. And this book definitely succeeded. I have never been to Fiji but in this book, the description of, not only the beautiful natural scenery, but the cities and how people live made me feel like I had already been. Joe Horseman is being reintroduced to Fiji throughout the book as a police detective/returning rugby hero and is a contrast to Susie Singh, an Indian woman who has been working her way up the Fiji police force and is regarded as a second-class citizen by many Fijians. The setting went really nicely with how the use of language was woven into the story, with Horseman using language as a way of crossing barriers through his time interviewing suspects and witnesses.
The actual plot was interesting without too many twists and turns that would just leave you confused. I liked how all the signs were pointing towards who had done it but I didn't guess until right near the end, especially with the small twist near the end of the book. Horseman and Singh made a really good team and I look forward to seeing more of them in the next book, plus Horseman's obvious respect for Singh in a profession where there aren't a lot of women made me warm up to him fast.
I was so appreciative that this series was on Kindle Unlimited because I think if I had to spend money on it, I would have missed out on this series completely. 4.5 stars!
August 27, 2022
Loved this series and can't wait for more. The mysteries are interesting and the solutions are ingenious but what really makes these books a pleasure and fun to read are the wonderful characterizations of both villains and heroes, the implied and overt lessons in Fijian culture, politics, and language. The local color is beautifully depicted and the actions include many different Fijian islands and communities on those islands. The author had lived long enough in Fiji to write whereof she speaks and once I started book one, I did not stop until I had read all four. Then I read a prequel. Then I read a document discussing deleted chapters in book three. Now I have finally had to come to a stop but will continue to beg Ms. Allsopp for more please because there are some obvious character line developments to be expanded. I also incidentally learned much more about international shipping and fishing laws than I thought I needed but were fascinating to read. I heartily recommend this series to anyone who likes cozy mysteries (although these are somewhat more educational than most cozies) or even to anyone who does not ordinarily read mysteries. Good reads, indeed.
December 15, 2022
This is a cozy mystery. I tend to avoid those and didn't realize this was one. I was lured by the fact the story is based in Fiji. The author did a nice job of painting a detailed picture of Fiji, food, customs, etc.
The writing is fine. Nothing magical, but that doesn't happen often. The main characters are interesting and believable.
It is an enjoyable mystery and first in a series.
The writing is fine. Nothing magical, but that doesn't happen often. The main characters are interesting and believable.
It is an enjoyable mystery and first in a series.
December 20, 2017
I picked up this book because it was free and took place in Fiji. I'm doing an around-the-world challenge and needed a book set here. I'm glad I did as it is an interesting and engaging novel. Detective Inspector Josefa Horseman is a fine, well-developed character recovering from knee surgery and back on the job with a baffling mystery to solve. As Horseman and partner, Susie Singh investigate, Fiji comes alive and this reader now has a new entry on my bucket list.
I enjoyed the mystery and didn't have a clue whodunit until the last 50 pages or so when things came to light with the investigation and spotlighted what was really going on.
Well-done B.M. Allsopp. Bring on the next Horseman book.
I enjoyed the mystery and didn't have a clue whodunit until the last 50 pages or so when things came to light with the investigation and spotlighted what was really going on.
Well-done B.M. Allsopp. Bring on the next Horseman book.
December 3, 2024
This review is for myself so I can remember what I thought of this book. If there is a chance you might read the book, then do so, do not let my review sway you one way or the other. See for yourself if you will like it.
On to my thoughts.
I really enjoyed this book. It felt like a departure from many of the books that I usually read; this one felt like they were doing actual investigating not just stumbling on to the answer. We were introduced to many supporting characters. For most of them what we learned about them was enough to get us interested and to care about what might happen to them.
On to my thoughts.
I really enjoyed this book. It felt like a departure from many of the books that I usually read; this one felt like they were doing actual investigating not just stumbling on to the answer. We were introduced to many supporting characters. For most of them what we learned about them was enough to get us interested and to care about what might happen to them.
July 13, 2025
Great mystery. So well written, the murderer was a huge surprise.
Joe and Susie are great characters, with endearing 'flaws'. Well written with great characters, especially the 'shiners'. I really enjoyed trying to figure out this mystery and was pleasantly surprised when I couldn't. If you enjoy hard to figure out mysteries, I highly recommend this one.
Joe and Susie are great characters, with endearing 'flaws'. Well written with great characters, especially the 'shiners'. I really enjoyed trying to figure out this mystery and was pleasantly surprised when I couldn't. If you enjoy hard to figure out mysteries, I highly recommend this one.
July 30, 2021
Idyllische Strände, eine wunderschöne Kulisse und mitten im Paradies ein Mord – was braucht man mehr, um einen richtig spannenden Krimi abzuliefern? Ich war jedenfalls schnell überzeugt, dass “Tropische Gefahr” eine prima Sommerlektüre sein wird. Allein das Cover vermittelt schon eine richtig düstere, drückende Atmosphäre, gepaart mit dem weißen Sandtsrand und den Palmen.
Detective Horseman kehrt nach seinem Einsatz in der Rugbymannschaft von Fiji in seine Heimat zurück – nachdem er jedoch wortwörtlich seine Wunden lecken musste, da er sich beim heldenhaften Einsatz für sein Land beim Rugby verletzt hat. Kaum zurück in der Heimat, hat er es mit einem rätselhaften Todesfall einer Bediensteten in einem Resort zu tun. War es ein unglücklicher Unfall oder doch heimtückischer Mord? Horsemann und seine Partnerin Singh sollen des Todesfall schnellstmöglich auflösen..
Die australische Autorin hat offenbar viel Zeit in die Recherche gesteckt, denn die Umgebung hat sie wirklich sehr greifbar beschrieben. Der Roman spielt zwar auf Fiji, das Resort ist jedoch ihrer Fantasie entsprungen. Die Autorin hat es wunderbar geschafft die Mentalität und Geflogenheiten der Insel einzufangen. Die Geschichte war gespickt von landestypischen Ausdrücken, was ich immer sehr gerne mag. Nur an die Namen musste ich mich etwas gewöhnen, vor allem da Männernamen dort gerne mal mit einem -a enden, was in unserem Sprachgebrauch eher auf eine Frau schließen lässt.
Gut fand ich, dass die Autorin es ganz subtil geschafft hat, die zeitgenössischen Probleme der Insel aufzugreifen. Tourismus gehört zu den größten Wirtschaftfaktoren des Inselstaates und wie wir uns alle vorstellen können, bringt dies auch negative Aspekte mit sich.
Ehrlicherweise hatte ich etwas Probleme in das Buch hineinzukommen. Ich war nicht sehr gefeselt von der Story und auch Detective Horseman hat es mir nicht gerade einfach gemacht. Horseman war gefühlt selbst nicht ganz bei der Sache, seine Partnerin Singh dafür umso mehr. Die Story verläuft sehr ruhig, wir begleiten die reine Ermittlungsarbeit und lediglich zum Ende kommt ein wenig Spannung auf.
Insgesamt hab ich mir wohl einfach etwas anderes vorgestellt. Ich mochte die Atmosphäre der Insel wirklich sehr, doch der Fall an sich und auch der fehlende Spannungsaufbau haben mir einfach nicht gut genug gefallen.
Detective Horseman kehrt nach seinem Einsatz in der Rugbymannschaft von Fiji in seine Heimat zurück – nachdem er jedoch wortwörtlich seine Wunden lecken musste, da er sich beim heldenhaften Einsatz für sein Land beim Rugby verletzt hat. Kaum zurück in der Heimat, hat er es mit einem rätselhaften Todesfall einer Bediensteten in einem Resort zu tun. War es ein unglücklicher Unfall oder doch heimtückischer Mord? Horsemann und seine Partnerin Singh sollen des Todesfall schnellstmöglich auflösen..
Die australische Autorin hat offenbar viel Zeit in die Recherche gesteckt, denn die Umgebung hat sie wirklich sehr greifbar beschrieben. Der Roman spielt zwar auf Fiji, das Resort ist jedoch ihrer Fantasie entsprungen. Die Autorin hat es wunderbar geschafft die Mentalität und Geflogenheiten der Insel einzufangen. Die Geschichte war gespickt von landestypischen Ausdrücken, was ich immer sehr gerne mag. Nur an die Namen musste ich mich etwas gewöhnen, vor allem da Männernamen dort gerne mal mit einem -a enden, was in unserem Sprachgebrauch eher auf eine Frau schließen lässt.
Gut fand ich, dass die Autorin es ganz subtil geschafft hat, die zeitgenössischen Probleme der Insel aufzugreifen. Tourismus gehört zu den größten Wirtschaftfaktoren des Inselstaates und wie wir uns alle vorstellen können, bringt dies auch negative Aspekte mit sich.
Ehrlicherweise hatte ich etwas Probleme in das Buch hineinzukommen. Ich war nicht sehr gefeselt von der Story und auch Detective Horseman hat es mir nicht gerade einfach gemacht. Horseman war gefühlt selbst nicht ganz bei der Sache, seine Partnerin Singh dafür umso mehr. Die Story verläuft sehr ruhig, wir begleiten die reine Ermittlungsarbeit und lediglich zum Ende kommt ein wenig Spannung auf.
Insgesamt hab ich mir wohl einfach etwas anderes vorgestellt. Ich mochte die Atmosphäre der Insel wirklich sehr, doch der Fall an sich und auch der fehlende Spannungsaufbau haben mir einfach nicht gut genug gefallen.
June 17, 2021
I was intrigued as I browsed available titles on Kindle Unlimited as the cover seemed inviting to a beautiful beach and yet ominous at the same time just as it's rare to think of death, paradise, and the Fiji Islands together as I read the title and series name.
This is the 1st novel in the series and introduces Inspector Josefa Horseman and Detective Sergeant Susila Singh of the Fiji Police Force. This is a new team as Josefa returns to the islands after a significant amount of time away playing rugby representing the police and his country admirably but then needing recovery from a serious injury. Susila knows of Horseman as a celebrated athlete but is unsure of what it will be like to have him as her boss. As the two pursue the lines of inquiry necessary for the investigation it is interesting to watch how they negotiate their way to a bond of shared principles and trust and gain mutual admiration for each other's investigative styles.
I found the novel to be well-written as I was drawn into not only a compelling investigation but became engaged in learning of the marine life and other cultural attributes unique to the Fiji Islands. I also liked that the relationship between the detectives stayed professional and didn't immediately become an island romance rather than a credible detective story. There are twists and turns as one would suspect of a crime investigation and made for gripping reading to become on the edge of a suspenseful thriller.
The author lived in Fiji for several years which brings authenticity to every aspect of her novel from setting to characters to cultural to environmental aspects of island life. With my recommendation to enjoy reading a novel with a dedicated detective team in a fascinating location I would also encourage everyone to visit the author's website and enjoy the beautiful photographs shared from Fiji. https://www.bmallsopp.com/fiji-gallery
I'm interested to follow future investigations in this mystery series.
This is the 1st novel in the series and introduces Inspector Josefa Horseman and Detective Sergeant Susila Singh of the Fiji Police Force. This is a new team as Josefa returns to the islands after a significant amount of time away playing rugby representing the police and his country admirably but then needing recovery from a serious injury. Susila knows of Horseman as a celebrated athlete but is unsure of what it will be like to have him as her boss. As the two pursue the lines of inquiry necessary for the investigation it is interesting to watch how they negotiate their way to a bond of shared principles and trust and gain mutual admiration for each other's investigative styles.
I found the novel to be well-written as I was drawn into not only a compelling investigation but became engaged in learning of the marine life and other cultural attributes unique to the Fiji Islands. I also liked that the relationship between the detectives stayed professional and didn't immediately become an island romance rather than a credible detective story. There are twists and turns as one would suspect of a crime investigation and made for gripping reading to become on the edge of a suspenseful thriller.
The author lived in Fiji for several years which brings authenticity to every aspect of her novel from setting to characters to cultural to environmental aspects of island life. With my recommendation to enjoy reading a novel with a dedicated detective team in a fascinating location I would also encourage everyone to visit the author's website and enjoy the beautiful photographs shared from Fiji. https://www.bmallsopp.com/fiji-gallery
I'm interested to follow future investigations in this mystery series.
November 28, 2017
4 and 1 / 2 stars
A young woman’s body is found in the surf off of Paradise Island in Fiji. Her name was Akanisi Leletaku and she arranged floral displays and was a maid at a local resort. She was eighteen-years old.
DS Josefa “Joe” Horseman returns to his native Fiji. His mother meets him at the airport and is prepared to put on a big celebration to mark his homecoming. However, he receives a message to report to the police department right away.
He reports to the DC’s office where he is surprised to have been promoted to Detective Inspector. He is immediately assigned the case of the young woman found dead on Vulu –or Paradise- Island. He is partnered with DS Susila ”Susie” Singh for the investigation. She believes it was a tragic accident. Joe is withholding judgement.
When they examine the body, Joe discovers a gash in her head. They check through her belongings. Joe and Susie interview the staff, scientists and guests at the resort with mixed results. They learn quite a bit about the young woman.
Was it the doctor who cannot be found and was a letch? One of the scientists? One of her co-workers? With a plethora of suspects, Joe and Susie have their work cut out for them.
This is a very well written and plotted novel. This is an excellent police procedural set among the picturesque Fijian Islands. Ms. Allsopp’s descriptions of the islands are wonderful. The reader can see, feel and smell the islands. The suspense begins immediately and continues throughout the story. Although Joe is struggling to come to terms with his rugby injury and returning to police work, he is determined to make the best of it.
I want to thank B.M. Allsopp for forwarding to me a copy of this great book to read and enjoy.
A young woman’s body is found in the surf off of Paradise Island in Fiji. Her name was Akanisi Leletaku and she arranged floral displays and was a maid at a local resort. She was eighteen-years old.
DS Josefa “Joe” Horseman returns to his native Fiji. His mother meets him at the airport and is prepared to put on a big celebration to mark his homecoming. However, he receives a message to report to the police department right away.
He reports to the DC’s office where he is surprised to have been promoted to Detective Inspector. He is immediately assigned the case of the young woman found dead on Vulu –or Paradise- Island. He is partnered with DS Susila ”Susie” Singh for the investigation. She believes it was a tragic accident. Joe is withholding judgement.
When they examine the body, Joe discovers a gash in her head. They check through her belongings. Joe and Susie interview the staff, scientists and guests at the resort with mixed results. They learn quite a bit about the young woman.
Was it the doctor who cannot be found and was a letch? One of the scientists? One of her co-workers? With a plethora of suspects, Joe and Susie have their work cut out for them.
This is a very well written and plotted novel. This is an excellent police procedural set among the picturesque Fijian Islands. Ms. Allsopp’s descriptions of the islands are wonderful. The reader can see, feel and smell the islands. The suspense begins immediately and continues throughout the story. Although Joe is struggling to come to terms with his rugby injury and returning to police work, he is determined to make the best of it.
I want to thank B.M. Allsopp for forwarding to me a copy of this great book to read and enjoy.
August 23, 2022
Joe Josefa Horseman is thrown in at the deep end returning from America and recuperating from his rugby injury, promoted to DI and set on to find who murdered Nisi. It turns into a full blown investigation uncovering a wildlife smuggling operation and a bent doctor who is also murdered, no big loss though he was a sleaze bag. Educated people who should have known better are at the centre of the crime and Joe and his crew, especially Susie though eventually grind their way through the suspects and get the answers they need to wrap it up. The use of Fijian language followed by the English equivalent I found a bit confusing but got the hang of it and the story is worth reading.
September 16, 2021
Refreshing & Exciting!
I enjoyed this book, enjoyed the characters - I'm a rugby fan so fell in love with Horseman! It was the first Allsopp book I have read but it definitely won't be the last! It was a refreshing storyline and loved the setting! Shall be reading more of her books.
I enjoyed this book, enjoyed the characters - I'm a rugby fan so fell in love with Horseman! It was the first Allsopp book I have read but it definitely won't be the last! It was a refreshing storyline and loved the setting! Shall be reading more of her books.
January 29, 2020
Great start to a new series!
I was able to read the prequel novella before reading this first book of the ‘Fiji Islands Mysteries’ series. To me, knowing Joe Horseman’s backstory was a plus as I began reading the first book of this series. It is similar to the feeling I get when following a former classmate’s career years later.
I am impressed with the character of Joe Horseman. He is real. He is the kind of person I would welcome to have as a friend or boss. He has his faults, just like everyone else. What defines his character is how he recognizes, then corrects (when possible) and learns from his mistakes. This is shown by the way he interacts with others; particularly as he leads his team.
I enjoyed the setting in the Fiji Islands. The descriptions of the people, their kindness, their customs, the environment, just the culture as a whole make me want to grab a seat on the first plane out tomorrow to experience Fiji firsthand!
‘Death on Paradise Island’ is an engaging mystery that kept me guessing until the end. Oh, I figured out bits and pieces here and there; but I wasn’t positive of whodunit until the end.
I do not provide ‘spoilers’ in reviews; so, you will not find any here. I highly recommend grabbing a copy of ‘Death on Paradise Island’ and diving into a great mystery. You can rest assured that besides being entertaining it is well written, edited, and proofed (all necessary ingredients for a five-star read) prior to release. I am looking forward to reading more from B.M. Allsopp.
Inasmuch as I discovered and was gifted this book through another author’s promotion; this review is my voluntary and honest opinion.
I was able to read the prequel novella before reading this first book of the ‘Fiji Islands Mysteries’ series. To me, knowing Joe Horseman’s backstory was a plus as I began reading the first book of this series. It is similar to the feeling I get when following a former classmate’s career years later.
I am impressed with the character of Joe Horseman. He is real. He is the kind of person I would welcome to have as a friend or boss. He has his faults, just like everyone else. What defines his character is how he recognizes, then corrects (when possible) and learns from his mistakes. This is shown by the way he interacts with others; particularly as he leads his team.
I enjoyed the setting in the Fiji Islands. The descriptions of the people, their kindness, their customs, the environment, just the culture as a whole make me want to grab a seat on the first plane out tomorrow to experience Fiji firsthand!
‘Death on Paradise Island’ is an engaging mystery that kept me guessing until the end. Oh, I figured out bits and pieces here and there; but I wasn’t positive of whodunit until the end.
I do not provide ‘spoilers’ in reviews; so, you will not find any here. I highly recommend grabbing a copy of ‘Death on Paradise Island’ and diving into a great mystery. You can rest assured that besides being entertaining it is well written, edited, and proofed (all necessary ingredients for a five-star read) prior to release. I am looking forward to reading more from B.M. Allsopp.
Inasmuch as I discovered and was gifted this book through another author’s promotion; this review is my voluntary and honest opinion.
May 27, 2019
Another must-read book by B.M. Allsopp.
This book is an engaging whodunnit, with a plausible mix of false leads and blind alleys; a huge selection of suspects; multiple crimes—some cascading like dominoes—all serious and some deadly; and wrapped up in a reasonable and very realistic conclusion—though a bit too tidily to escape notice.
Alsopp has rounded up a challenging assortment of suspects, informants, evildoers, and several victims—not all of whom are human. Additionally, she has gathered a variety of characters, some of whom play an important part in the Investigations or supporting the investigators, and many who just give dimension to scenarios. The cast of characters is amusingly complex and very large.
There is an additional book that Allsopp has woven into the yarn, and it adds wonderful color (or a bit of colour) as well as interest and character. The manners, methods, and mores of Fijians are captured very well, and inextricably woven into the yarn in a way that makes this story impossible in any other setting, and I think it could only be successful with the elaborate merging of the unique Fijian culture and language descriptions.
This book is an engaging whodunnit, with a plausible mix of false leads and blind alleys; a huge selection of suspects; multiple crimes—some cascading like dominoes—all serious and some deadly; and wrapped up in a reasonable and very realistic conclusion—though a bit too tidily to escape notice.
Alsopp has rounded up a challenging assortment of suspects, informants, evildoers, and several victims—not all of whom are human. Additionally, she has gathered a variety of characters, some of whom play an important part in the Investigations or supporting the investigators, and many who just give dimension to scenarios. The cast of characters is amusingly complex and very large.
There is an additional book that Allsopp has woven into the yarn, and it adds wonderful color (or a bit of colour) as well as interest and character. The manners, methods, and mores of Fijians are captured very well, and inextricably woven into the yarn in a way that makes this story impossible in any other setting, and I think it could only be successful with the elaborate merging of the unique Fijian culture and language descriptions.
October 17, 2019
A trip to Fiji as one of our "trip around the world" mysteries this year. Inspector Josefa Horseman is returning to Fiji after suffering a rugby injury while playing in the national play offs. He's met by his mother at the airport but before she can even get a chance to get him home to the rest of the family for a welcome home party, he finds out that the body of a young woman who worked at the hotel on Paradise Island has been found and he must report to duty immediately. As he works to get up to speed he is introduced to Sergeant Susila Singh of the Fiji Police Force, who will become his partner...at least for this case. As they work to determine whether the death was an accident or murder a number of other events come up to distract and/or slow them down. When the second death is discovered, the investigation kicks into high gear. I was pretty much in the dark until the final reveal...but that's not too unusual. I was very interested in the cultural aspects and references to rugby (which I know next to nothing about).
December 3, 2023
The reader is wafted off to tropical Fiji with its scattered islands, strange mix of population, languages, food, smells and sounds all in a setting of lush palms, blue seas and strange wildlife. In this amazing setting, Detective Sergeant Josefa Horseman returns from a year spent in the US, recuperating from a serious injury sustained in a rugby match and is promoted to Detective Inspector as well as ordered to investigate a murder at Paradise Island, a luxury Island Resort with immediate effect. Accompanied by Detective Sergeant Suzy Singh, he sets off to the island and is caught up in an intriguing mystery, not yet a confirmed murder. All leads seem to peter out, but Horseman is not one to give up easily, and slowly but painstakingly follows each thread to its conclusion, facing strong opposition, open hostility and even violence. A mix of foreigners and Fijians, cultures, customs, and glimpses of Fiji's history.
I found the book fascinating and look forward to reading the next in the series.
I found the book fascinating and look forward to reading the next in the series.
December 6, 2017
"A Very Engaging Detective Investigation"
This is the first novel written by this author. It's very well written, but I was distracted during the first half due to the Fiji language usage and the excessive descriptions of surroundings. I felt the characters could use a little more description to really hook on to them. However, at half way, things became less challenging as the investigative efforts moved on more quickly to read. The story evolves around an ex-rugby player who had serious leg injury and now Josefa (Joe) Horseman is a Fiji police force detective inspector and his new partner Susila Singh work together to investigate the death of a girl on Paradise Island. Secrets slowly surface, secrets which are foreign to Paradise Island. The story rapidly moves along the well-developed story line with a surprising ending. I was pleased to keep reading to the very end. Good job, author Allsopp.
This is the first novel written by this author. It's very well written, but I was distracted during the first half due to the Fiji language usage and the excessive descriptions of surroundings. I felt the characters could use a little more description to really hook on to them. However, at half way, things became less challenging as the investigative efforts moved on more quickly to read. The story evolves around an ex-rugby player who had serious leg injury and now Josefa (Joe) Horseman is a Fiji police force detective inspector and his new partner Susila Singh work together to investigate the death of a girl on Paradise Island. Secrets slowly surface, secrets which are foreign to Paradise Island. The story rapidly moves along the well-developed story line with a surprising ending. I was pleased to keep reading to the very end. Good job, author Allsopp.
January 4, 2018
A thriller that takes place in Fiji opens the door for many new and exciting adventures in reading. The death of a young maid at a resort on Paradise Island kicks off a police investigation that introduces the culture of Fiji, the natural world of the islands, a number of interesting characters and an ending that was impossible to see coming. The main character is an injured rugby player returning to police work after a lengthy rehab program in America. The Fijian craze for rugby opens many doors for him as he leads the investigation. I enjoyed the great descriptions of the cities, resort, and beaches. The style is very straightforward and the level of language makes for a quick and easy read. Some Fijian language is used, but always in an easy to understand context. I will definitely read more books in this series.
November 30, 2023
This is the first in the series. The main characters are Detective Inspector Josefa Horseman and Detective Sergeant Singh. Joe Horseman plays the the police rugby team and got hurt badly. He has spent a year in the states seeing doctors and getting treatments. Finally home he is barely off the plane when he is told to report to Paradise Island on a case. He hopes to be back on the team playing within a year but we will see. He is told Singh will go with him as second in command. They find out it is a murder investigation and they are a day late already. Before they can figure it all out, they end up with another murder and Singh is attacked and there are eggs being stolen and taken to another country. They wonder if they will every figure this all out and will it be too late when they do ?
February 20, 2026
Paradise Island really is paradise - if you are a guest, but all is not as it seems. Returning from extensive rehab Joe Horseman really hoped to spend some good family time but it was not to be. The author reveals that Nisi was loved by all, how could she have died, much less in a suspicious manner?
“Through fieldwork and deskwork his own small team had invaded the lives of several people only coincidentally involved with Akanisi’s death. Scores of statements had been checked, business and phone records trawled through, fingerprints taken, airline lists and police records searched.” But that's what it takes to solve a murder. Joe will not stop and he now has a Sergeant who is just as determined to get justice.
This mystery will twist the reader through the facts of the case while surrounded with the culture and environment that is Fiji.
“Through fieldwork and deskwork his own small team had invaded the lives of several people only coincidentally involved with Akanisi’s death. Scores of statements had been checked, business and phone records trawled through, fingerprints taken, airline lists and police records searched.” But that's what it takes to solve a murder. Joe will not stop and he now has a Sergeant who is just as determined to get justice.
This mystery will twist the reader through the facts of the case while surrounded with the culture and environment that is Fiji.
September 18, 2017
Death on Paradise Island - a review by Rosemary Kenny.
Recovering from injury, ex-rugby legend Detective Inspector Joe (Josefa) Horseman is no sooner back on his home island of Fiji than he's plunged in at the deep end of a suspicious death at the plush Paradise Island Resort. The victim's (Aka)nisi, a popular 18 year old maid at the hotel, whose generous, innocent nature has led her astray in more ways than one - and to her ultimate violent downfall!
Can Joe and Sergeant Susie Singh untangle the many interwoven plots and betrayals before the villains get away with even more murders?
You'll have to read this fascinating book (downloaded free), with bated breath and trust in BM Allsopp's genius to keep you enthralled to the very last sentence to find out!
Recovering from injury, ex-rugby legend Detective Inspector Joe (Josefa) Horseman is no sooner back on his home island of Fiji than he's plunged in at the deep end of a suspicious death at the plush Paradise Island Resort. The victim's (Aka)nisi, a popular 18 year old maid at the hotel, whose generous, innocent nature has led her astray in more ways than one - and to her ultimate violent downfall!
Can Joe and Sergeant Susie Singh untangle the many interwoven plots and betrayals before the villains get away with even more murders?
You'll have to read this fascinating book (downloaded free), with bated breath and trust in BM Allsopp's genius to keep you enthralled to the very last sentence to find out!
December 12, 2017
Fiji, I now know a little bit more about it. One day I hope to visit! I found this an interesting story which had me guessing for quite a while. The contrast of a marine reserve with a little bit of smuggling pointed me in the right direction soon enough. The doctor's involvement made me rethink for a while.
I didn't like the constant Fijian language references and found them to be a distraction. There were plenty of other references to remind us of where the story takes place. I also think the story is too drawn out. Much of the evidence gets revisited several times over from different perspectives which was boring at times. I loved the characters of Horseman and Susie. Nicely drawn and I suspect they may become an item in follow up stories.
I didn't like the constant Fijian language references and found them to be a distraction. There were plenty of other references to remind us of where the story takes place. I also think the story is too drawn out. Much of the evidence gets revisited several times over from different perspectives which was boring at times. I loved the characters of Horseman and Susie. Nicely drawn and I suspect they may become an item in follow up stories.
June 30, 2023
This is the first instalment in a series of novels set in Fiji, introducing Inspector Josefa Horseman and Sergeant Susila Singh of the Fiji Police Force. Horseman, a local hero known for his rugby skills, returns to his big family immersed in cultural traditions, only to have their celebrations interrupted by the death of a young girl near a resort on the coral reef.
Horseman leads the investigation, aided by his new partner, Sergeant Singh, in a case that quickly becomes complex. The story balances the plot, character, and setting with a suspenseful narrative, richly executed main characters, and a vivid portrayal of Fiji's tropical climate and laid-back lifestyle, creating an immersive and believable reading experience.
Horseman leads the investigation, aided by his new partner, Sergeant Singh, in a case that quickly becomes complex. The story balances the plot, character, and setting with a suspenseful narrative, richly executed main characters, and a vivid portrayal of Fiji's tropical climate and laid-back lifestyle, creating an immersive and believable reading experience.
August 18, 2017
Long but satisfying
Reading the prologue I thought, "what kind of book is this?" As I read on into the first chapter I became fully immersed in the story . This book was longer than I usually like to read but I became so engrossed with the characters, the setting, and the mystery that I actually enjoyed the length. The authors descriptions of the scenes and characters transported me into the story and I felt the sticky heat and understood the island culture. This book was very well written and it was a pleasure to read. I thank the author for sharing this book for free and I gladly share this review in hopes you enjoy it as much as I did.
Reading the prologue I thought, "what kind of book is this?" As I read on into the first chapter I became fully immersed in the story . This book was longer than I usually like to read but I became so engrossed with the characters, the setting, and the mystery that I actually enjoyed the length. The authors descriptions of the scenes and characters transported me into the story and I felt the sticky heat and understood the island culture. This book was very well written and it was a pleasure to read. I thank the author for sharing this book for free and I gladly share this review in hopes you enjoy it as much as I did.
December 28, 2017
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review
This is a police procedural/murder investigation type of story set in the tropical island of Fiji. The story follows the discovery of a dead body and the case is broken down by the days of the week as the investigation continues. It shows exactly what the investigators discover, how they discover it, the consequences of their discoveries, and the final results leading to the revealing of the culprits. The story isn't "dry"or so full of facts about police work, but it is a very engaging and entertaining story showing the human side of the investigators themselves.
This is a police procedural/murder investigation type of story set in the tropical island of Fiji. The story follows the discovery of a dead body and the case is broken down by the days of the week as the investigation continues. It shows exactly what the investigators discover, how they discover it, the consequences of their discoveries, and the final results leading to the revealing of the culprits. The story isn't "dry"or so full of facts about police work, but it is a very engaging and entertaining story showing the human side of the investigators themselves.
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