What do you think?
Rate this book
Ash Carter #5
Singapore Killer
A helicopter crash and burned bodies.
A faceless corpse.
A mysterious town.
Carter is drawn into a dark case from which there seems no escape.
A faceless corpse.
A mysterious town.
Carter is drawn into a dark case from which there seems no escape.
- GenresFiction
384 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 1, 2020
20 people are currently reading
418 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
April 27, 2020
I’m quite ashamed that I hadn’t heard of the author Murray Bailey despite “Singapore Killer” being the fifth in the Ash Carter thriller series.
“A helicopter crash and burned bodies. A faceless corpse. A mysterious town. Carter is drawn into a dark case from which there seems no escape.”
I was very pleasantly surprised by how much I loved this book, taking to the story from the very first gripping action packed page to the rocketing conclusion at the end. I totally fell in love with Carter, fearless, strong and an excellent example of what a thriller hero should be with the added class of being a true gentleman too.
Being set in Singapore, this brought a fabulous atmospheric setting to the story and every detail was laid out for you to know exactly where everything was taking place, including a map at the front of the book of ‘Shangri-La’ to assist with your bearings.
Every character was very well portrayed and I loved every part they all played. The author has created some great people that the reader either likes or dislikes for all the right reasons including any of the ‘bad guys’ and I was certainly left aghast as the identity of the main killer. Carter’s ‘receptionist’ Madame Chau was just fabulous and her and Carter’s working relationship was wonderful to read. I would have liked a bit more on the mysterious jungle camp’s leader but this was just a personal opinion and didn’t detract in any way from my enjoyment of the book.
I do like a gruesome serial killer and there’s no doubting that BlackJack fit that bill perfectly, some of his killing methods were quite imaginative and brutal but this again suited the story perfectly and I liked the intermittent chapters from his viewpoint.
I would definitely love to read the previous four in the series, to follow Ash Carter’s career from former Military Police to Private Investigator and I will certainly be reading any more that are written in the series.
5 stars!
“A helicopter crash and burned bodies. A faceless corpse. A mysterious town. Carter is drawn into a dark case from which there seems no escape.”
I was very pleasantly surprised by how much I loved this book, taking to the story from the very first gripping action packed page to the rocketing conclusion at the end. I totally fell in love with Carter, fearless, strong and an excellent example of what a thriller hero should be with the added class of being a true gentleman too.
Being set in Singapore, this brought a fabulous atmospheric setting to the story and every detail was laid out for you to know exactly where everything was taking place, including a map at the front of the book of ‘Shangri-La’ to assist with your bearings.
Every character was very well portrayed and I loved every part they all played. The author has created some great people that the reader either likes or dislikes for all the right reasons including any of the ‘bad guys’ and I was certainly left aghast as the identity of the main killer. Carter’s ‘receptionist’ Madame Chau was just fabulous and her and Carter’s working relationship was wonderful to read. I would have liked a bit more on the mysterious jungle camp’s leader but this was just a personal opinion and didn’t detract in any way from my enjoyment of the book.
I do like a gruesome serial killer and there’s no doubting that BlackJack fit that bill perfectly, some of his killing methods were quite imaginative and brutal but this again suited the story perfectly and I liked the intermittent chapters from his viewpoint.
I would definitely love to read the previous four in the series, to follow Ash Carter’s career from former Military Police to Private Investigator and I will certainly be reading any more that are written in the series.
5 stars!
May 21, 2020
A cracker of an action thriller, which kept me on my toes from beginning to end. Author Murray Bailey was fantastic in the scenes which required the main character to act fast and intelligently.
A helicopter crash, burned body, pilot shot. Another town, faceless corpse. Ash Carter, a military investigator, who now provided his services to the army in Singapore, had his work cut out for him. But nothing was too small for this brilliant character who could see links where others could not. BlackJack, the villain had left his calling card at all the crime scenes.
My first book by this author, I was completely mermerized by the seamless plots that were weaved in. The story was doused in adrenaline, some of the scenes left me singed and breathless, pun unintended.
Ash Carter was a complete hero; a girl could get lost in his charming ways. Ah, don't worry. He knew how to fight dirty too. His secretary, Madame Chau was the best side of him. She kept him walking in a straight line as well as added sarcastic humor to the story.
Set in Singapore in the 1950s, the writing brought out the atmosphere of the land with the uniqueness of its culture in those times. There was something authentic in the vibes the book gave that got me turning the pages fast.
The fourth in the series, I had zilch problems while trying to follow the story. I didn't fall in love with Ash, but came damn close to it. Overall, the book was a high pitched action ball which kept going in a steep arc without stopping until the end. Whew!! An action roller-coaster was this.
A helicopter crash, burned body, pilot shot. Another town, faceless corpse. Ash Carter, a military investigator, who now provided his services to the army in Singapore, had his work cut out for him. But nothing was too small for this brilliant character who could see links where others could not. BlackJack, the villain had left his calling card at all the crime scenes.
My first book by this author, I was completely mermerized by the seamless plots that were weaved in. The story was doused in adrenaline, some of the scenes left me singed and breathless, pun unintended.
Ash Carter was a complete hero; a girl could get lost in his charming ways. Ah, don't worry. He knew how to fight dirty too. His secretary, Madame Chau was the best side of him. She kept him walking in a straight line as well as added sarcastic humor to the story.
Set in Singapore in the 1950s, the writing brought out the atmosphere of the land with the uniqueness of its culture in those times. There was something authentic in the vibes the book gave that got me turning the pages fast.
The fourth in the series, I had zilch problems while trying to follow the story. I didn't fall in love with Ash, but came damn close to it. Overall, the book was a high pitched action ball which kept going in a steep arc without stopping until the end. Whew!! An action roller-coaster was this.
July 29, 2020
Plan to stay up all night!
This one will scare you. It will also intrigue you as you try to solve the mystery. The Many twists and turns of the clues keep you guessing. I found myself drawn so far in trying to guess the ending. The action is spot on.
This one will scare you. It will also intrigue you as you try to solve the mystery. The Many twists and turns of the clues keep you guessing. I found myself drawn so far in trying to guess the ending. The action is spot on.
May 10, 2020
**Thank you to the publisher and Net Galley for providing me a copy for an honest review!**
This is a new-to-me author and series, but I find this story really engaging. Ash Carter is a complex character, who was in the British army, but is now working as a private investigator in post-war Singapore. He is called in to investigate a helicopter crash . The investigation intersected with numerous murders, apparently done by a serial killer named Blackjack. This then leads to Ash going undercover at a suspicious commune/cult composed of ex-soldiers calling itself Shangri-La. Amongst all this, Ash is also trying to make a living and is forced to take small jobs, like looking for a dog for a bored, horny housewife. Since I haven't read the earlier books of this series, several of the characters are unfamiiiar to me. There are references to events that happened in previous books. However, reading this as a stand-alone is still quite enjoyable.
This is a new-to-me author and series, but I find this story really engaging. Ash Carter is a complex character, who was in the British army, but is now working as a private investigator in post-war Singapore. He is called in to investigate a helicopter crash . The investigation intersected with numerous murders, apparently done by a serial killer named Blackjack. This then leads to Ash going undercover at a suspicious commune/cult composed of ex-soldiers calling itself Shangri-La. Amongst all this, Ash is also trying to make a living and is forced to take small jobs, like looking for a dog for a bored, horny housewife. Since I haven't read the earlier books of this series, several of the characters are unfamiiiar to me. There are references to events that happened in previous books. However, reading this as a stand-alone is still quite enjoyable.
May 26, 2020
A confession, of sorts. Before the author had contacted me I had never read any of the other books in this series, not only that I had never heard of the author (Sorry Murray) but the premise of the book hooked me, coupled with the promise that it could be read standalone, I decided to give it a shot.
I think the first item we need to clarify about the book is that even though this is book 5 of the Ash Carter series the book can, for the most part, be read without having read the others (as I said, I haven’t read any of the others up to now). Some parts of the story took a bit of guess work because I didn’t know the history of the character, but, at most, it intrigued me about the other books, and did not take away anything from this story.
Our protagonist Ash Carter is an all action hero, and it is easy to see that the author has been influenced in some small way by Lee Child’s Jack Reacher novels. Ash Carter is the outsider, but he’s here to help. He has set up his own private detective agency and while it doesn’t seem like he has much on the books (aside from finding a lost dog apparently) when work comes, he seems reluctant to take much payment – much to the annoyance of his assistant.
When Ash gets involved in a mysterious helicopter crash, Ash is pulled back into his previous life, and must use his skills to solve the mystery of just who BlackJack is.
We also get to read some chapters from the viewpoint of our killer, BlackJack. These counter chapters kept me guessing throughout. While they gave little in the way of clues as to who BlackJack is, they reveal enough to let us know just how skilled Ash’s enemy is.
The plotline kept me guessing throughout and kept me very entertained. I honestly didn’t figure out the mystery (even though I thought I had) and that is always something that leaves a smile on my face at the end.
This is a very good read, and I will most likely go back and look at the others once I clear my backlog a bit. If you are a fan of action adventure books, or books similar to Jack Reacher, I think this is one for you. Recommended.
I think the first item we need to clarify about the book is that even though this is book 5 of the Ash Carter series the book can, for the most part, be read without having read the others (as I said, I haven’t read any of the others up to now). Some parts of the story took a bit of guess work because I didn’t know the history of the character, but, at most, it intrigued me about the other books, and did not take away anything from this story.
Our protagonist Ash Carter is an all action hero, and it is easy to see that the author has been influenced in some small way by Lee Child’s Jack Reacher novels. Ash Carter is the outsider, but he’s here to help. He has set up his own private detective agency and while it doesn’t seem like he has much on the books (aside from finding a lost dog apparently) when work comes, he seems reluctant to take much payment – much to the annoyance of his assistant.
When Ash gets involved in a mysterious helicopter crash, Ash is pulled back into his previous life, and must use his skills to solve the mystery of just who BlackJack is.
We also get to read some chapters from the viewpoint of our killer, BlackJack. These counter chapters kept me guessing throughout. While they gave little in the way of clues as to who BlackJack is, they reveal enough to let us know just how skilled Ash’s enemy is.
The plotline kept me guessing throughout and kept me very entertained. I honestly didn’t figure out the mystery (even though I thought I had) and that is always something that leaves a smile on my face at the end.
This is a very good read, and I will most likely go back and look at the others once I clear my backlog a bit. If you are a fan of action adventure books, or books similar to Jack Reacher, I think this is one for you. Recommended.
March 8, 2020
This is the fourth book I have read from this Author featuring three very different main characters, each book has been well written and researched entertaining and enjoyable throughout. Gripping from first to last page clever descriptive imaginative but there the similarities end. Black Creek White Lies features a wrongly accused man seeking redemption and the truth behind a missing girl. I Dare You where a women's boyfriend is snatched off the the street prompting her to investigate, and is one of the best books I have ever read. Then Singapore 52 and this book features Ash Carter the English 'Jack Reacher' a former MP turned PI but there the similarities end our hero has a base does not find himself a mystery in a new city each book, but is a clever and resourceful officer and gentleman. This is book five in this series and whilst there are references to previous cases this story works as a standalone book. A helicopter crash sees our hero searching for BlackJack a serial killer which leads to a mysterious jungle compound, with plenty of action and suspense before our story is complete or is it, I cannot say any more at the risk of spoiling it for my fellow readers.
Totally recommended.
Totally recommended.
April 24, 2020
Stylish, vintage, gripping
I haven't found this book. It has found me. One February afternoon, the author, Murray Bailey, has kindly offered me a quick peek inside his most recent novel and got me hooked.
I have to admit, I haven't read previous books from the Ash Carter Series before, but I soon am going to rectify that.
The action of the story takes place in Singapore in the 1950s, which straight away makes the premise extremely exciting. The bygone era and an exotic location create an atmosphere of a vintage adventure, jam-packed with action and full of entertaining twists.
And then there's a serial killer...
Without giving too much away, you will keep asking yourself the same question over and over again... Who is Black Jack? The antagonist is really well fleshed-out and quite elusive. His modus operandi is quite simple, but not simplistic. And he knows how to make us shiver.
What about the protagonist?
I am always quite apprehensive about reviewing books which form a part of a series I haven't read yet. Mainly because I might not be able to grasp the full picture that makes the protagonist who he or she is, and I don't want to pass my judgement on a backstory that a big chunk of I must have missed.
Ash Carter, a former Royal Military Police officer, is a brilliantly written character. In many respects, he comes across as a traditional, British all-round hero. He's outspoken, yet classy. Eloquent, yet straight-talking. And he's somewhat gritty. With both, the approach towards his investigation as well as his foes. Carter seamlessly slips from the perfect gentleman into a ruthless military man. I will read the whole series if only to learn about Carter's past.
The setting
This is where things get a little complicated. "Singapore Killer" takes place in the 1950s, yet the characters come across somewhat modern. Perhaps too modern. The language and the phraseology they use sometimes feels a little bit out of place. Certain expressions don't work in the context of the 50s and the "vintage-y feel" the novel tried to emulate feels a little bit flat. The location itself is faultless. Post World War II Singapore makes an excellent background for a historical fiction serial killer thriller. It's quite clear that the author took a lot of time to research the political climate of Peninsular Malaysia in the 50s, which gives the novel a hint of authenticity often omitted by historical fiction writers.
The book has introduced me to a fascinating character in the equally exciting setting. It's one of these novels that is quite difficult to review without spoiling it, so let me summarise; it's an entertaining read deeply rooted in a tradition of Alastair Maclean or Jack Higgins. It's a fast-paced read that will deliver a pleasant few hours of unadulterated entertainment.
I haven't found this book. It has found me. One February afternoon, the author, Murray Bailey, has kindly offered me a quick peek inside his most recent novel and got me hooked.
I have to admit, I haven't read previous books from the Ash Carter Series before, but I soon am going to rectify that.
The action of the story takes place in Singapore in the 1950s, which straight away makes the premise extremely exciting. The bygone era and an exotic location create an atmosphere of a vintage adventure, jam-packed with action and full of entertaining twists.
And then there's a serial killer...
Without giving too much away, you will keep asking yourself the same question over and over again... Who is Black Jack? The antagonist is really well fleshed-out and quite elusive. His modus operandi is quite simple, but not simplistic. And he knows how to make us shiver.
What about the protagonist?
I am always quite apprehensive about reviewing books which form a part of a series I haven't read yet. Mainly because I might not be able to grasp the full picture that makes the protagonist who he or she is, and I don't want to pass my judgement on a backstory that a big chunk of I must have missed.
Ash Carter, a former Royal Military Police officer, is a brilliantly written character. In many respects, he comes across as a traditional, British all-round hero. He's outspoken, yet classy. Eloquent, yet straight-talking. And he's somewhat gritty. With both, the approach towards his investigation as well as his foes. Carter seamlessly slips from the perfect gentleman into a ruthless military man. I will read the whole series if only to learn about Carter's past.
The setting
This is where things get a little complicated. "Singapore Killer" takes place in the 1950s, yet the characters come across somewhat modern. Perhaps too modern. The language and the phraseology they use sometimes feels a little bit out of place. Certain expressions don't work in the context of the 50s and the "vintage-y feel" the novel tried to emulate feels a little bit flat. The location itself is faultless. Post World War II Singapore makes an excellent background for a historical fiction serial killer thriller. It's quite clear that the author took a lot of time to research the political climate of Peninsular Malaysia in the 50s, which gives the novel a hint of authenticity often omitted by historical fiction writers.
The book has introduced me to a fascinating character in the equally exciting setting. It's one of these novels that is quite difficult to review without spoiling it, so let me summarise; it's an entertaining read deeply rooted in a tradition of Alastair Maclean or Jack Higgins. It's a fast-paced read that will deliver a pleasant few hours of unadulterated entertainment.
May 23, 2020
*Thanks to the author and Voracious Reader for a complimentary copy of this book for an honest review.*
So, this is definitely not the typical genre of fiction that I would not normally choose to read, but I picked it up because of the setting in Singapore (near my home country) and that peaked my curiosity.
So the good stuff: It was a well written, action packed storyline that moved at a good pace and was engaging, albeit contained a fair amount of bloody violence. I can see something like this turned into a movie for people who enjoy testosterone-filled, protagonist, with enough twists and turns for a sequel. It was definitely a page turner. Ash Carter is the penultimate casual, chilled out, McGyver-Jack Reach type, versatile, disarming, charming, renegade-ish, confident, white guy in a colonized land.
So what was hard for me to shake off: Well, it was that Ash Carter is the penultimate casual, chilled out, McGyver-Jack Reach type, versatile, disarming, charming, renegade-ish, confident, white guy in a colonized land.
The setting of Singapore and Malaysia as a backdrop for this action thriller was redundant. The use of especially colonized cuntry settings simply as an "interesting" backdrop but without the engagement and huanity of the local people being drawn on is what's hard to grasp (as a non-white reader from a former British colony. What made the country setting necessary, if the people of the country itself did not play substantial roles. The use of country was merely to serve as backdrop to amplify the prowess of the colonizer-character who plays hero/protagonist, strategist, thinker and agent of his own destiny. Local Singaporean people were cast one dimensional roles of mostly extras as victimized and helpless, loyal (his office manager) or gratefully roles and even exoticized, like the random Iban (indigenous people, but only depicted as exotic headhunters). So this type of premise authored in this day and age -- well - isn't something that this South East Asisn sista would actively seek out.
So, this is definitely not the typical genre of fiction that I would not normally choose to read, but I picked it up because of the setting in Singapore (near my home country) and that peaked my curiosity.
So the good stuff: It was a well written, action packed storyline that moved at a good pace and was engaging, albeit contained a fair amount of bloody violence. I can see something like this turned into a movie for people who enjoy testosterone-filled, protagonist, with enough twists and turns for a sequel. It was definitely a page turner. Ash Carter is the penultimate casual, chilled out, McGyver-Jack Reach type, versatile, disarming, charming, renegade-ish, confident, white guy in a colonized land.
So what was hard for me to shake off: Well, it was that Ash Carter is the penultimate casual, chilled out, McGyver-Jack Reach type, versatile, disarming, charming, renegade-ish, confident, white guy in a colonized land.
The setting of Singapore and Malaysia as a backdrop for this action thriller was redundant. The use of especially colonized cuntry settings simply as an "interesting" backdrop but without the engagement and huanity of the local people being drawn on is what's hard to grasp (as a non-white reader from a former British colony. What made the country setting necessary, if the people of the country itself did not play substantial roles. The use of country was merely to serve as backdrop to amplify the prowess of the colonizer-character who plays hero/protagonist, strategist, thinker and agent of his own destiny. Local Singaporean people were cast one dimensional roles of mostly extras as victimized and helpless, loyal (his office manager) or gratefully roles and even exoticized, like the random Iban (indigenous people, but only depicted as exotic headhunters). So this type of premise authored in this day and age -- well - isn't something that this South East Asisn sista would actively seek out.
October 26, 2020
Murray, where have you been all my reading life?!
Having never read a book by Murray I’m jumping into the middle of a series that I know nothing about.
Was I worried? A little.
Did I think that I would have missed too much to get into the story? A tad.
By the end of this book I had one feeling
Ash Carter is…… well, he’s mental!!
He’s like a dog with a bone and just doesn’t let go, even when his life is at risk, and I’d say his life was at risk for the majority of this book!
It starts of with a bang, and even though he is brought in for just his opinion on the case, he quickly becomes a vital role of the operation. Bodies are dropping like flies and no one seems to be able to get ahead of the killer ‘Blackjack’.
I have to confess that I liked the chapters that came from our killer, getting an inside peek to his thoughts was interesting. How he stalked his victim, kind of like an animal, and then pounced.
Madame Chau was a great additional character for me, her dry humor and emotions made me chuckle a few times. She’s definitely going to be keeping Ash on his toes and insisting on those payments coming in .
Throughout the book I had my suspicions on who I thought Blackjack was, and as I came up to 60% of the book I was adamant. Everything pointed to this person, and I mean everything. So by 98% I had given this book 4 golden apples……. then came the last chapter or so and BOOM!
Murray Baliey blew my mind and grabbed that final star!
How did I not see?
How did I not guess?
How, how, how??
I sat, kindle in hand shaking my head saying nooooo! I never guessed, never even thought of that situation playing out….. well played Mr Murray, well played!
So here are your 5 stars for what has been an explosive start for me and your Ash Carter series.
Having never read a book by Murray I’m jumping into the middle of a series that I know nothing about.
Was I worried? A little.
Did I think that I would have missed too much to get into the story? A tad.
By the end of this book I had one feeling
Ash Carter is…… well, he’s mental!!
He’s like a dog with a bone and just doesn’t let go, even when his life is at risk, and I’d say his life was at risk for the majority of this book!
It starts of with a bang, and even though he is brought in for just his opinion on the case, he quickly becomes a vital role of the operation. Bodies are dropping like flies and no one seems to be able to get ahead of the killer ‘Blackjack’.
I have to confess that I liked the chapters that came from our killer, getting an inside peek to his thoughts was interesting. How he stalked his victim, kind of like an animal, and then pounced.
Madame Chau was a great additional character for me, her dry humor and emotions made me chuckle a few times. She’s definitely going to be keeping Ash on his toes and insisting on those payments coming in .
Throughout the book I had my suspicions on who I thought Blackjack was, and as I came up to 60% of the book I was adamant. Everything pointed to this person, and I mean everything. So by 98% I had given this book 4 golden apples……. then came the last chapter or so and BOOM!
Murray Baliey blew my mind and grabbed that final star!
How did I not see?
How did I not guess?
How, how, how??
I sat, kindle in hand shaking my head saying nooooo! I never guessed, never even thought of that situation playing out….. well played Mr Murray, well played!
So here are your 5 stars for what has been an explosive start for me and your Ash Carter series.
May 19, 2020
Murray, where have you been all my reading life?!
Having never read a book by Murray I’m jumping into the middle of a series that I know nothing about.
Was I worried? A little.
Did I think that I would have missed too much to get into the story? A tad.
By the end of this book I had one feeling 🤯
Ash Carter is…… well, he’s mental!!
He’s like a dog with a bone and just doesn’t let go, even when his life is at risk, and I’d say his life was at risk for the majority of this book!
It starts of with a bang, and even though he is brought in for just his opinion on the case, he quickly becomes a vital role of the operation. Bodies are dropping like flies and no one seems to be able to get ahead of the killer ‘Blackjack’.
I have to confess that I liked the chapters that came from our killer, getting an inside peek to his thoughts was interesting. How he stalked his victim, kind of like an animal, and then pounced.
Madame Chau was a great additional character for me, her dry humor and emotions made me chuckle a few times. She’s definitely going to be keeping Ash on his toes and insisting on those payments coming in 😂
Throughout the book I had my suspicions on who I thought Blackjack was, and as I came up to 60% of the book I was adamant. Everything pointed to this person, and I mean everything. So by 98% I had given this book 4 golden apples……. then came the last chapter or so and BOOM!
Murray Baliey blew my mind and grabbed that final golden apple!
How did I not see?
How did I not guess?
How, how, how??
I sat, kindle in hand shaking my head saying nooooo! I never guessed, never even thought of that situation playing out….. well played Mr Murray, well played!
So here are your 5 golden apples for what has been an explosive start for me and your Ash Carter series.
Having never read a book by Murray I’m jumping into the middle of a series that I know nothing about.
Was I worried? A little.
Did I think that I would have missed too much to get into the story? A tad.
By the end of this book I had one feeling 🤯
Ash Carter is…… well, he’s mental!!
He’s like a dog with a bone and just doesn’t let go, even when his life is at risk, and I’d say his life was at risk for the majority of this book!
It starts of with a bang, and even though he is brought in for just his opinion on the case, he quickly becomes a vital role of the operation. Bodies are dropping like flies and no one seems to be able to get ahead of the killer ‘Blackjack’.
I have to confess that I liked the chapters that came from our killer, getting an inside peek to his thoughts was interesting. How he stalked his victim, kind of like an animal, and then pounced.
Madame Chau was a great additional character for me, her dry humor and emotions made me chuckle a few times. She’s definitely going to be keeping Ash on his toes and insisting on those payments coming in 😂
Throughout the book I had my suspicions on who I thought Blackjack was, and as I came up to 60% of the book I was adamant. Everything pointed to this person, and I mean everything. So by 98% I had given this book 4 golden apples……. then came the last chapter or so and BOOM!
Murray Baliey blew my mind and grabbed that final golden apple!
How did I not see?
How did I not guess?
How, how, how??
I sat, kindle in hand shaking my head saying nooooo! I never guessed, never even thought of that situation playing out….. well played Mr Murray, well played!
So here are your 5 golden apples for what has been an explosive start for me and your Ash Carter series.
September 21, 2020
Singapore Killer is a classic international crime thriller, hurtling from murder to murder almost from beginning to end.
Taking place in 1950s Singapore and surrounding area, this fifth novel in the Ash Carter series has remarkable pace and extreme brutality (trigger warning).
A disturbed and vicious killer known only as BlackJack begins his spree with a horrific mutilation and helicopter crash, and ends with gory deaths in a strange compound miles away. You will indeed never guess who he really is until he is revealed in the final chapter.
He is not the only monster. Possibly the best part of the book surrounds Carter’s deep dive into the commune’s workings. What are they up to? Why are there so many hidden access points? Has the leader truly gone mad? So many questions . . . and answers that are truly enraging.
The female characters, I found, were perhaps the most well-drawn, along with Carter’s friend Slugger. Carter, a former military man turned private investigator, can only (barely) afford one staff member: the redoubtable Madam Chau, who supports and worries about her boss even as she sends him disapproving glances. I also appreciated Safiya’s journey, which I will not elaborate on due to potential spoilers.
The plot is complex and there are many characters, contributing to the difficulty in solving the crime. I would perhaps have preferred a different ending from a different point of view, but will wait for book six to see what happens next.
Singapore Killer is quite the ride. Hold on tight.
I purchased this novel on Amazon Canada.
Taking place in 1950s Singapore and surrounding area, this fifth novel in the Ash Carter series has remarkable pace and extreme brutality (trigger warning).
A disturbed and vicious killer known only as BlackJack begins his spree with a horrific mutilation and helicopter crash, and ends with gory deaths in a strange compound miles away. You will indeed never guess who he really is until he is revealed in the final chapter.
He is not the only monster. Possibly the best part of the book surrounds Carter’s deep dive into the commune’s workings. What are they up to? Why are there so many hidden access points? Has the leader truly gone mad? So many questions . . . and answers that are truly enraging.
The female characters, I found, were perhaps the most well-drawn, along with Carter’s friend Slugger. Carter, a former military man turned private investigator, can only (barely) afford one staff member: the redoubtable Madam Chau, who supports and worries about her boss even as she sends him disapproving glances. I also appreciated Safiya’s journey, which I will not elaborate on due to potential spoilers.
The plot is complex and there are many characters, contributing to the difficulty in solving the crime. I would perhaps have preferred a different ending from a different point of view, but will wait for book six to see what happens next.
Singapore Killer is quite the ride. Hold on tight.
I purchased this novel on Amazon Canada.
May 9, 2020
Received a complimentary copy of this novel by the author via voracious readers only, in exchange for an honest review.
Although this is the fifth adventure in the Ash Carter series I have not read any of the preceding novels and this did not distract from any of the action in this book.
This action packed rollercoaster of an adventure starts with a terrifying helicopter crash and 2 dead bodies. Ash Carter then becomes involved as investigators try to find out who the bodies belong to. From his hum drum investigations into lost dogs and extortion rings Ash now finds himself deep in the lush jungle as his quest for the truth slowly unfolds, as added into the mix are a group of ex service men who live in a small commune. Many secrets and lies are exposed, as it twists and turns and the body count rises as the hunt for BlackJack reaches its bloody climax.
Well written thriller of a tale with strong characters and lush scenery, will be downloading more of this hero’s adventures.
Although this is the fifth adventure in the Ash Carter series I have not read any of the preceding novels and this did not distract from any of the action in this book.
This action packed rollercoaster of an adventure starts with a terrifying helicopter crash and 2 dead bodies. Ash Carter then becomes involved as investigators try to find out who the bodies belong to. From his hum drum investigations into lost dogs and extortion rings Ash now finds himself deep in the lush jungle as his quest for the truth slowly unfolds, as added into the mix are a group of ex service men who live in a small commune. Many secrets and lies are exposed, as it twists and turns and the body count rises as the hunt for BlackJack reaches its bloody climax.
Well written thriller of a tale with strong characters and lush scenery, will be downloading more of this hero’s adventures.
June 10, 2020
#5 in the Ash Carter series, but can also be read as a stand-alone.
Wow….the action starts from the off and really doesn’t stop in this heart pounding thriller.
Set in 1950’s Singapore, a devastating helicopter crash turns out to be a deliberate act…..and so the story begins.
Ash Carter is on the hunt for the killer, Black Jack.
This is so well written with a real sense of time and place. Full of atmosphere, it has a brutal serial killer, plenty of great characters and a twisty, violent and action packed plot to keep every thriller fan on the edge of their seats. A fantastic read.
Thank you to Murray Bailey for the opportunity to take part in this blog tour and for an eARC of the book. This is my honest and unbiased review.
Wow….the action starts from the off and really doesn’t stop in this heart pounding thriller.
Set in 1950’s Singapore, a devastating helicopter crash turns out to be a deliberate act…..and so the story begins.
Ash Carter is on the hunt for the killer, Black Jack.
This is so well written with a real sense of time and place. Full of atmosphere, it has a brutal serial killer, plenty of great characters and a twisty, violent and action packed plot to keep every thriller fan on the edge of their seats. A fantastic read.
Thank you to Murray Bailey for the opportunity to take part in this blog tour and for an eARC of the book. This is my honest and unbiased review.
May 16, 2020
Well, that was a suspenseful read. Action packed and full of so many twists and turns, I had trouble keeping up with everything going on.
The story starts off with a helicopter crash and just keeps getting more and more mysterious as the story unfolds.
Truly a murder, mystery, thriller with gripping moments.
Though part of a series, I had no problem reading this as a stand alone. I will definitely go back and read the other books in the series. I enjoyed the writing style of Murray Bailey.
Many thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read and review this book for my honest opinion.
The story starts off with a helicopter crash and just keeps getting more and more mysterious as the story unfolds.
Truly a murder, mystery, thriller with gripping moments.
Though part of a series, I had no problem reading this as a stand alone. I will definitely go back and read the other books in the series. I enjoyed the writing style of Murray Bailey.
Many thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read and review this book for my honest opinion.
February 18, 2020
I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher for review purposes.
First, let me say I have not read the prior 4 books in the Ash Carter series, however that being said, I didn't feel as if I was starting off in the middle of something missing half the background as you do with some series. Whilst there are some call backs to prior events, they're done in a way that makes them not feel out of place as if this could very well have been a stand alone novel with just minor backgrounding for characters as they are introducing in the story.
That being said, I found it to be an enjoyable romp through South East Asia (specifically Malaysia & Singapore). A helicopter crashes and upon investigation it seems there is more going on the a simple crash, the bodies have been burned and as Ash Carter begins enquiries further bodies are discovered.
It's not long until a strange cult like compound is discovered where women are kept prisoner and some strange dealings with Chinese terrorists are taking place.
Overall, it was a pretty enthralling book with plenty of atmosphere and the mystery of who was responsible was well written, a lot better than many best selling mystery novelists in fact. Would recommend even if you haven't read the earlier books.
First, let me say I have not read the prior 4 books in the Ash Carter series, however that being said, I didn't feel as if I was starting off in the middle of something missing half the background as you do with some series. Whilst there are some call backs to prior events, they're done in a way that makes them not feel out of place as if this could very well have been a stand alone novel with just minor backgrounding for characters as they are introducing in the story.
That being said, I found it to be an enjoyable romp through South East Asia (specifically Malaysia & Singapore). A helicopter crashes and upon investigation it seems there is more going on the a simple crash, the bodies have been burned and as Ash Carter begins enquiries further bodies are discovered.
It's not long until a strange cult like compound is discovered where women are kept prisoner and some strange dealings with Chinese terrorists are taking place.
Overall, it was a pretty enthralling book with plenty of atmosphere and the mystery of who was responsible was well written, a lot better than many best selling mystery novelists in fact. Would recommend even if you haven't read the earlier books.
June 9, 2020
Ash Carter is asked to look at a helicopter accident and the bodies found with the crash. Was it an accident? Ash no longer works for the government but doesn't mind doing work for them. Then he is asked to look at some bodies with unusual ways of being killed. Ash is a careful person but also a curious person as well. Two undercover agents are missing, one might have been in the crash. Bodies are burned so hard to tell. Ash keeps at the investigation and it turns into some interesting happenings. This could have been a story by Tom Clancy as well as a few others I read. It has action and mystery to keep you wondering what will happen next.
June 18, 2020
Brilliant book!
If you like action packed thrillers and a good mystery, this is a must read. There are few dark moments in the book but those are limited to a few scenes and, in my personal opinion, just right for an action thriller.
I guess the high level of suspense and fast paced action can be expected from a good thriller. What I didn’t expect, though, was the very clever plot. The best I’ve read in a long time.
This was the first book I read by this author but surely not the last.
If you like action packed thrillers and a good mystery, this is a must read. There are few dark moments in the book but those are limited to a few scenes and, in my personal opinion, just right for an action thriller.
I guess the high level of suspense and fast paced action can be expected from a good thriller. What I didn’t expect, though, was the very clever plot. The best I’ve read in a long time.
This was the first book I read by this author but surely not the last.
February 23, 2020
Quite the thrillingest thriller I’ve read in a good while! Steeped in immersion in the country and people of Singapore and the Malay Peninsula, riddled with the Western mercenaries out for a Shangri-La dream or just plain gold, lightly peppered with good guys, this twisty mystery and its surprise ending kept me reading to the last page. I suspect some of the local women-and-children horrors come out of real life, and the grit and drive of the Western military police do, too. So well written, this book and one other I’ve read in the series just make me want to read them all!!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher with no strings attached and am writing an honest review.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher with no strings attached and am writing an honest review.
March 14, 2020
I was fortunate indeed to read this book in preparation for narrating the audiobook. Notwithstanding any conflict of interest I have to say it was an absolutely gripping yarn, the perfect thriller, fast-paced and expertly crafted.
October 29, 2020
Took me a while to get round to reading this one and then I couldn't put it down. Action packed thriller that kept the pages turning and has now got me wanting more of Ash Carter. Thankfully four have gone before so they will keep me busy. Many thanks for the great read via Netgalley.
December 4, 2020
A gripping page turning thriller. The main character is an ex military policeman now working as a private investigator. Set in Singapore in the 50’s it was a refreshing setting to my usual reads. Fast paced, intriguing would definitely recommend
April 30, 2020
This is a real page turner, I was even delaying getting out of bed (unusual for me) so I could read another chapter. Very atmospheric of the times, and well worth the read.
May 5, 2020
I received a complementary copy from the author via Voracious Readers Only..
I didn't know this was part of a series before starting it but found it does fine as a stand-alone. This one is fast paced and thrilling with an ending I didn't see coming. If you're into military thrillers that keep you on the edge of your seat then I highly recommend you pick this one up.
I didn't know this was part of a series before starting it but found it does fine as a stand-alone. This one is fast paced and thrilling with an ending I didn't see coming. If you're into military thrillers that keep you on the edge of your seat then I highly recommend you pick this one up.
May 13, 2020
This book is extremely action packed. It’s full of twists and turns. Just when you think you may have it figured out another twist is thrown at you. I couldn’t put it down.
June 8, 2020
My thanks to NetGalley and publisher Heritage Books for the ARC.
Oh my Goodness - talk about action-packed! This is book #5 in the Ash Carter series and the first one that I have read - must catch-up with the previous four.
This is a real page-turner, very well written with great characters and dialogue.
Ash Carter, an ex-military investigator but now working privately, is called on by the Army in Singapore to help investigate a helicopter crash. They only have two SIB officers on staff and both are on secretive missions. The pilot and a passenger are both dead and unrecognisable due to a fire which broke out at the crash site. However, an otherwise blank military dog-tag recovered from the scene had one word written on it "Blackjack". When one of the SIB officers fails to report-in and the remains of an identification card are found on the passenger's body, Ash starts to track all the investigations the two SIB officers had been involved in, and starts to uncover a trail of deaths of military personnel.
What's the connection between these men and the clues Blackjack is leaving for Ash?
We are taken into the world of 1950s Singapore and Malaya; the military presence there; black-market trading and gold.
Absolutely gripping! - And I didn't see THAT twist coming!
Oh my Goodness - talk about action-packed! This is book #5 in the Ash Carter series and the first one that I have read - must catch-up with the previous four.
This is a real page-turner, very well written with great characters and dialogue.
Ash Carter, an ex-military investigator but now working privately, is called on by the Army in Singapore to help investigate a helicopter crash. They only have two SIB officers on staff and both are on secretive missions. The pilot and a passenger are both dead and unrecognisable due to a fire which broke out at the crash site. However, an otherwise blank military dog-tag recovered from the scene had one word written on it "Blackjack". When one of the SIB officers fails to report-in and the remains of an identification card are found on the passenger's body, Ash starts to track all the investigations the two SIB officers had been involved in, and starts to uncover a trail of deaths of military personnel.
What's the connection between these men and the clues Blackjack is leaving for Ash?
We are taken into the world of 1950s Singapore and Malaya; the military presence there; black-market trading and gold.
Absolutely gripping! - And I didn't see THAT twist coming!
June 3, 2020
What a read!
Non stop action from beginning to end. Just how I like my books.
So many twists and turns and every chapter ends on a cliffhanger so you just need to read the next one! I devoured it within a couple of days and will definitely be reading more from this super talented author.
Ash Carter is asked to assist with investigating a helicopter crash in which two men have died. He quickly realises it was not an accident and his search for the killer, the missing third nan from the helicopter, begins.
Who is BlackJack, the killer who is judge, jury and executioner?
Is it Jeremiah, the twisted head of a strange commune hidden deep in the woods? Or one of his small army of ex military men?
Ash must find a way to be accepted into the commune to find his answers.
I challenge you to guess the killer!
Thanks to NetGalley, Murray Bailey and Heritage Books for an advance copy to review.
Non stop action from beginning to end. Just how I like my books.
So many twists and turns and every chapter ends on a cliffhanger so you just need to read the next one! I devoured it within a couple of days and will definitely be reading more from this super talented author.
Ash Carter is asked to assist with investigating a helicopter crash in which two men have died. He quickly realises it was not an accident and his search for the killer, the missing third nan from the helicopter, begins.
Who is BlackJack, the killer who is judge, jury and executioner?
Is it Jeremiah, the twisted head of a strange commune hidden deep in the woods? Or one of his small army of ex military men?
Ash must find a way to be accepted into the commune to find his answers.
I challenge you to guess the killer!
Thanks to NetGalley, Murray Bailey and Heritage Books for an advance copy to review.
May 27, 2020
Thanks as ever go to Murray Bailey for providing me with early access to the 5th and penultimate book in his Singapore series, The Ash Carter Thrillers, ‘Singapore Killer’.
I’m lucky enough to have beta read for Murray, and am happy to say this series is going from strength to strength as Murray Bailey ramps up the action as the series hurtles head on to its undoubtedly explosive finale.
Ash Carter returns in this 5th adventure set in 50s Singapore.
A helicopter crash leads Ash to become embroiled In a search for a mysterious faceless killer, and takes him into ‘Shanghai-La’ a compound in deepest Singapore, ran by corrupt American Mercenaries.
This one really twist and turns as Ash goes about his investigation in his usual indomitable fashion.
As usual with all of Murray’s Baileys books, the writing is strong, inviting and very good and the settings and scenery feel authentic and real as he immerses you into his vividly told action thrillers.
Easily picked up as a standalone, I would suggest you start from the beginning of this excellent series, which in my opinion is far far better than some of the big name authors and series currently out there. Murray Bailey deserves to be discovered by a bigger audience.
Gripping, enthralling, action packed writing but also an extremely intelligent murder mystery thriller with a wicked twist...
I was left open mouthed and am waiting on tenter hooks to finish this crackerjack series..
Highly Recommended
All the Flames
5🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
#WhoIsBlackJack?
I’m lucky enough to have beta read for Murray, and am happy to say this series is going from strength to strength as Murray Bailey ramps up the action as the series hurtles head on to its undoubtedly explosive finale.
Ash Carter returns in this 5th adventure set in 50s Singapore.
A helicopter crash leads Ash to become embroiled In a search for a mysterious faceless killer, and takes him into ‘Shanghai-La’ a compound in deepest Singapore, ran by corrupt American Mercenaries.
This one really twist and turns as Ash goes about his investigation in his usual indomitable fashion.
As usual with all of Murray’s Baileys books, the writing is strong, inviting and very good and the settings and scenery feel authentic and real as he immerses you into his vividly told action thrillers.
Easily picked up as a standalone, I would suggest you start from the beginning of this excellent series, which in my opinion is far far better than some of the big name authors and series currently out there. Murray Bailey deserves to be discovered by a bigger audience.
Gripping, enthralling, action packed writing but also an extremely intelligent murder mystery thriller with a wicked twist...
I was left open mouthed and am waiting on tenter hooks to finish this crackerjack series..
Highly Recommended
All the Flames
5🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
#WhoIsBlackJack?
May 20, 2020
The story begins with a helicopter crash in Singapore. The pilot has been shot through the head and his body, along with that of a passenger, set on fire. Ex-Military Police detective Ash Carter is asked by Captain Robshaw of the British army to investigate. Carter soon finds himself embroiled in the hunt for a killer known only as BlackJack.
I really enjoyed Singapore Killer; especially its setting in the 1950s. It made a refreshing change from my usual contemporary books. The pacing was spot on — not too fast that it felt hurried but leisurely enough for every aspect of the plot to carefully unfold. Main characters were given depth and personality making them feel solid and real.
I felt I was reading an exceptionally well-researched and skillfully written novel. It was exciting and gripping. The revelation of BlackJack's identity in the final chapter was brilliantly clever and the perfect ending.
Although this is the 5th book in the series, the author succinctly includes background information to make it work equally well as a standalone read. I thought it was immensely enjoyable.
The 6th and final book, Singapore Fire, will be released in 2021.
Book Source: Review copy from the author
Read my review on my blog https://bit.ly/2LFzGcV
I really enjoyed Singapore Killer; especially its setting in the 1950s. It made a refreshing change from my usual contemporary books. The pacing was spot on — not too fast that it felt hurried but leisurely enough for every aspect of the plot to carefully unfold. Main characters were given depth and personality making them feel solid and real.
I felt I was reading an exceptionally well-researched and skillfully written novel. It was exciting and gripping. The revelation of BlackJack's identity in the final chapter was brilliantly clever and the perfect ending.
Although this is the 5th book in the series, the author succinctly includes background information to make it work equally well as a standalone read. I thought it was immensely enjoyable.
The 6th and final book, Singapore Fire, will be released in 2021.
Book Source: Review copy from the author
Read my review on my blog https://bit.ly/2LFzGcV
June 12, 2020
I received this book through Voracious Readers Only in exchange for my honest review.
Firstly, this isn't a book I would've normally picked up as I don't tend to enjoy super action heavy crime novels however I really enjoyed reading this. It had just the right amount of twists and turns but also was not overly confusing with them. I didn't feel as though it was a chore to read this at any point and I am sure I would've read this in one sitting if it weren't for real life getting in the way.
I honestly don't have much else to say. The characters were all dynamic and well written, I didn't feel as they were unrealistic in order to make the storyline easier on the author which is a really great thing to see. He wrote the female characters really well and didn't make certain commonly used traumas as a cheap way to further the story which I highly appreciate.
All in all I give this 5/5 stars and would definitely look in to the other books that Murray Bailey has written to see if any of them catch my way
Firstly, this isn't a book I would've normally picked up as I don't tend to enjoy super action heavy crime novels however I really enjoyed reading this. It had just the right amount of twists and turns but also was not overly confusing with them. I didn't feel as though it was a chore to read this at any point and I am sure I would've read this in one sitting if it weren't for real life getting in the way.
I honestly don't have much else to say. The characters were all dynamic and well written, I didn't feel as they were unrealistic in order to make the storyline easier on the author which is a really great thing to see. He wrote the female characters really well and didn't make certain commonly used traumas as a cheap way to further the story which I highly appreciate.
All in all I give this 5/5 stars and would definitely look in to the other books that Murray Bailey has written to see if any of them catch my way
May 16, 2020
A helicopter crash and burned bodies.
A faceless corpse.
A mysterious town.
It's September 1953 and Carter is drawn into a dark case from which there seems no escape.
#WhoIsBlackJack
My thoughts about this brilliant explosive action thriller was outstanding brilliant characters fast moving story set in 1950s a race against time to find out who Black Jack was shocking talented author Murray Bailey's Ash Carter is a outstanding character that packs a punch to fight the villains enjoyed every bit of this well written action thriller this was my first Ash Carter thriller that took me on a ride of my life one of the brilliant thrillers I've read this year Author Murray Bailey is a outstanding storyteller can not wait to read the rest of the series I would like to say thank you to the author for giving me a chance to read and review this hardhiting action thriller highly recommended ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐💥💥💥💥💥
A faceless corpse.
A mysterious town.
It's September 1953 and Carter is drawn into a dark case from which there seems no escape.
#WhoIsBlackJack
My thoughts about this brilliant explosive action thriller was outstanding brilliant characters fast moving story set in 1950s a race against time to find out who Black Jack was shocking talented author Murray Bailey's Ash Carter is a outstanding character that packs a punch to fight the villains enjoyed every bit of this well written action thriller this was my first Ash Carter thriller that took me on a ride of my life one of the brilliant thrillers I've read this year Author Murray Bailey is a outstanding storyteller can not wait to read the rest of the series I would like to say thank you to the author for giving me a chance to read and review this hardhiting action thriller highly recommended ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐💥💥💥💥💥
Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews