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Pacific Dash: From Asia Vagabond to Casino King
PACIFIC DASH is the colorful new novel following the vagabond life journey of Dashiell Bonaventure, a young American who for decades roams Asia pursuing thrills and truth. This vivid work of gaudy fiction transports readers to exotic foreign worlds and will satisfy any fan of armchair global travel, adventure fiction or romance.
In 1968, a job transfer catapults young Dash's family across the globe, leaving the cornfields of Illinois for the scintillating new world of far-flung Hong Kong. In his innocence, the teen believes his expatriate high school days will just be a temporary experience, but he is mistaken. For thus begins a lifelong odyssey as Dash drifts between continents and crisscrosses Asia in constant pursuit of adventure and self-discovery.
For several decades he wanders through Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, Thailand, Myanmar and more. Eccentric and flamboyant personalities roll through his life as Dash roams the jungles, beaches, and cities of the Far East.
Along the way, he falls desperately in love while also making bitter enemies. He saves lives but also nearly loses his own. Among his adventures, he backpacks and motorcycles across Indonesia, works in an illegal casino afloat offshore from Singapore and eventually, becomes wildly wealthy a VIP junket pioneer in Macau, hosting 'whale gamblers' from around the region.
The story unwinds at a furious pace and is truly a mad dash: From a sudden disaster at international high school in cosmopolitan Hong Kong … to fantasy years jetting around the globe as the collegiate protégé to the world’s reigning literary rock star … From a dreamlike backpacking idyll through culture-lush Indonesia … to an unplanned decade riding a sleazy floating casino in the Straits of Malacca … and finally on to Dash’s stunning rise to power as the wealthiest Westerner in Asia and king of Greater China's casino business.
With PACIFIC DASH, readers experience life amongst Asia's elite, the young princesses and princelings at the international high school in 1960s Hong Kong. They hang out with Aussie surfer dudes in Bali and go tromping down the 1970s hippie trail to Afghanistan, Nepal and beyond. They thrill to illegal high-stakes baccarat tables on the high seas and gorge on spicy foods eaten by hand off banana leaves. And they fall in love with the gorgeous Fiona Lo Ting-Ting and make friends with intriguing characters like Snakehead Goh, PY (Little Fatty) Lee, Chickie Schmidt and Jackson Toh.
In 1968, a job transfer catapults young Dash's family across the globe, leaving the cornfields of Illinois for the scintillating new world of far-flung Hong Kong. In his innocence, the teen believes his expatriate high school days will just be a temporary experience, but he is mistaken. For thus begins a lifelong odyssey as Dash drifts between continents and crisscrosses Asia in constant pursuit of adventure and self-discovery.
For several decades he wanders through Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, Thailand, Myanmar and more. Eccentric and flamboyant personalities roll through his life as Dash roams the jungles, beaches, and cities of the Far East.
Along the way, he falls desperately in love while also making bitter enemies. He saves lives but also nearly loses his own. Among his adventures, he backpacks and motorcycles across Indonesia, works in an illegal casino afloat offshore from Singapore and eventually, becomes wildly wealthy a VIP junket pioneer in Macau, hosting 'whale gamblers' from around the region.
The story unwinds at a furious pace and is truly a mad dash: From a sudden disaster at international high school in cosmopolitan Hong Kong … to fantasy years jetting around the globe as the collegiate protégé to the world’s reigning literary rock star … From a dreamlike backpacking idyll through culture-lush Indonesia … to an unplanned decade riding a sleazy floating casino in the Straits of Malacca … and finally on to Dash’s stunning rise to power as the wealthiest Westerner in Asia and king of Greater China's casino business.
With PACIFIC DASH, readers experience life amongst Asia's elite, the young princesses and princelings at the international high school in 1960s Hong Kong. They hang out with Aussie surfer dudes in Bali and go tromping down the 1970s hippie trail to Afghanistan, Nepal and beyond. They thrill to illegal high-stakes baccarat tables on the high seas and gorge on spicy foods eaten by hand off banana leaves. And they fall in love with the gorgeous Fiona Lo Ting-Ting and make friends with intriguing characters like Snakehead Goh, PY (Little Fatty) Lee, Chickie Schmidt and Jackson Toh.
413 pages, ebook
Published June 30, 2021
51 people are currently reading
398 people want to read
About the author
Chet Nairene
2 books16 followersChet Nairene is an American writer who truly qualifies for the honorary title of "Old Asia Hand".
Chet resided in Southeast Asia nearly three decades, during which time he ran barges and tankers up the coasts of Malaysia and directed retail businesses in the Philippines, Malaysia, Hong Kong, and Thailand.
During his youth, fresh from college, he worked as a journalist at a midwestern USA daily newspaper.
"We've all read books that were so good that we didn't want them to end," says Chet. " Among my favorites are many by my hero, Paul Theroux, all set in far-away lands. In many ways, he inspired me in life and now, as a writer. My goal is to utterly delight my readers, taking full advantage of the many astounding things I've witnessed during my long stay in Asia. I attempt to parachute my readers directly into alien experiences in those exotic lands and always keep the fascination level high. Here's hoping my readers all enjoy my first offering, PACIFIC DASH, and the amazing travels across Asia by intrepid young Dash Bonaventure!"
Chet will soon be following up PACIFIC DASH with more travel adventure novels set in Southeast Asia.
Chet resided in Southeast Asia nearly three decades, during which time he ran barges and tankers up the coasts of Malaysia and directed retail businesses in the Philippines, Malaysia, Hong Kong, and Thailand.
During his youth, fresh from college, he worked as a journalist at a midwestern USA daily newspaper.
"We've all read books that were so good that we didn't want them to end," says Chet. " Among my favorites are many by my hero, Paul Theroux, all set in far-away lands. In many ways, he inspired me in life and now, as a writer. My goal is to utterly delight my readers, taking full advantage of the many astounding things I've witnessed during my long stay in Asia. I attempt to parachute my readers directly into alien experiences in those exotic lands and always keep the fascination level high. Here's hoping my readers all enjoy my first offering, PACIFIC DASH, and the amazing travels across Asia by intrepid young Dash Bonaventure!"
Chet will soon be following up PACIFIC DASH with more travel adventure novels set in Southeast Asia.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
November 21, 2023
Pacific Dash by Chet Nairene is a great coming to age story for insight on the life of one man. As a Chicagoan, I was partial to the story’s original setting taking place in the Windy City. Dash’ is raised in an Asian household in the States, but his family must travel back to Hong Kong, where he reluctantly attends school and is considered a foreigner. Then he begins his travels, where the book rolls out its full contents. Dash goes from young student to literary student to gambler throughout the pages. All of it has a sort of serendipitous humor to it, and a wit that makes the narrative especially compelling. There’s a constant outsider-looking-in perspective which is affable for the reader, and leaves us on an important journey that isn’t complete by the end of the book. Check out Pacific Dash for a hearty laugh, fun journey, and new perspective on life.
November 12, 2023
"Pacific Dash" masterfully weaves suspense, danger, intrigue, and romance into the compelling narrative of Dash Bonaventure's growth in 1969 Hong Kong. The novel's plot, well-crafted and entertaining, beckons for deeper exploration of secondary characters. While some questions linger after the conclusion, the vividly depicted settings and Dash's evolving character contribute to a highly enjoyable and multifaceted reading experience.
The novel is a recommended choice for readers in search of a gripping adventure, as it skillfully combines elements of personal development with a captivating storyline set against the backdrop of an immersive and detailed world. With its blend of suspenseful twists and continuous character evolution, "Pacific Dash" stands out as a noteworthy and engaging tale that keeps the reader enthralled from start to finish..
The novel is a recommended choice for readers in search of a gripping adventure, as it skillfully combines elements of personal development with a captivating storyline set against the backdrop of an immersive and detailed world. With its blend of suspenseful twists and continuous character evolution, "Pacific Dash" stands out as a noteworthy and engaging tale that keeps the reader enthralled from start to finish..
May 31, 2023
Beginning in 1968 and spanning just under four decades, Pacific Dash unfolds the adventures of Dashiell (“Dash”) Xavier Bonaventure II. When his father’s tractor company posts the family to Hong Kong from rural Illinois, fifteen-year-old Dash believes it will be a temporary move.
However, he couldn’t be more wrong and despite a sojourn back in New Hampshire, he spends the next forty years making friends, enemies, and an awful lot of money as he traverses the Far East…
Although fictional, Pacific Dash reads as a travel memoir and clearly contains shards of buried and not so buried autobiography. It’s a sprawling novel separated into six books but through all there are threads of connection; themes, characters, and business opportunities are often linked and return full circle.
Dash is a smart, engaging protagonist but not always likable. There is a touch of entitlement about him which he is, overall, aware of and, emotionally, he occasionally appears superfluous. Notwithstanding, he carries the novel well and his laidback affability is amusing and lends credibility to some of the slightly convenient developments in the narrative.
He has the enviable talent of fitting in wherever he finds himself, subtly adapting and improvising his behavior to benefit not only himself but those around him. Indeed, landing in late 1960s Hong Kong from the Midwest, leaving life as you know it behind would prove temperamentally disastrous for most teenagers but not so for Dash who remains amusingly ever-curious and appears breezily unaffected.
Nonetheless, this optimism is sorely tested when he becomes the unofficial amanuensis to the literary god, Demetrio Luminoso, at Olde Albion College in New Hampshire. This section of the book is different in tone from the rest. “Demy” is a slightly sinister figure who inspires almost cult-like devotion from his acolytes, including Dash.
This interlude is oddly intriguing and provides the catalyst for Dash to take off for the Far East, primarily landing in Bali and fully immersing himself in the backpacker lifestyle. Nairene brings Indonesian culture vividly and vibrantly to life, making this section of Pacific Dash supremely absorbing. Some of the characters are a touch stereotypical but they work well in context and all are overshadowed by the wonderfully realized PY “Little Fatty” Lee.
Little Fatty is an Indo-Chinaman who, from this moment on, features heavily in Dash’s life and is instrumental in his subsequent successes and a few of his failures. He’s colorful, authentic, and affectionately portrayed. It’s through Little Fatty that Dash begins his stratospheric ascent through the murky high-stakes gambling world as he embarks, literally, to manage an illicit floating casino in the Straits of Malacca.
His time aboard “The Floating Diamond” is highly readable and is, without question, rooted in fact as is the selection of undesirable individuals that enable this waterborne den of iniquity. Despite the mountains of cash that Dash amasses, he never appears particularly happy during this time and there is a growing sense of slight boredom and foreboding.
The story then moves to Macau with a similar narrative albeit involving a more elite clientele as he teams up with old HK schoolfriend, Jackson Toh. Although this book leads neatly into the end scenario, personally it lost a touch of momentum, or maybe my interest in the world of Asian gambling began to ebb.
Nevertheless, it does provide a motive for the last book and I was gratified to see a character from the first book reappear; it was clear he would and personally, I was wondering when. Consequently, Pacific Dash closes with a sense of karma, poignancy, and where to now for Mr. Bonaventure II…
Pacific Dash is a consistently entertaining and adventurous ride of a read written with verve and enthusiasm. Highly recommended.
However, he couldn’t be more wrong and despite a sojourn back in New Hampshire, he spends the next forty years making friends, enemies, and an awful lot of money as he traverses the Far East…
Although fictional, Pacific Dash reads as a travel memoir and clearly contains shards of buried and not so buried autobiography. It’s a sprawling novel separated into six books but through all there are threads of connection; themes, characters, and business opportunities are often linked and return full circle.
Dash is a smart, engaging protagonist but not always likable. There is a touch of entitlement about him which he is, overall, aware of and, emotionally, he occasionally appears superfluous. Notwithstanding, he carries the novel well and his laidback affability is amusing and lends credibility to some of the slightly convenient developments in the narrative.
He has the enviable talent of fitting in wherever he finds himself, subtly adapting and improvising his behavior to benefit not only himself but those around him. Indeed, landing in late 1960s Hong Kong from the Midwest, leaving life as you know it behind would prove temperamentally disastrous for most teenagers but not so for Dash who remains amusingly ever-curious and appears breezily unaffected.
Nonetheless, this optimism is sorely tested when he becomes the unofficial amanuensis to the literary god, Demetrio Luminoso, at Olde Albion College in New Hampshire. This section of the book is different in tone from the rest. “Demy” is a slightly sinister figure who inspires almost cult-like devotion from his acolytes, including Dash.
This interlude is oddly intriguing and provides the catalyst for Dash to take off for the Far East, primarily landing in Bali and fully immersing himself in the backpacker lifestyle. Nairene brings Indonesian culture vividly and vibrantly to life, making this section of Pacific Dash supremely absorbing. Some of the characters are a touch stereotypical but they work well in context and all are overshadowed by the wonderfully realized PY “Little Fatty” Lee.
Little Fatty is an Indo-Chinaman who, from this moment on, features heavily in Dash’s life and is instrumental in his subsequent successes and a few of his failures. He’s colorful, authentic, and affectionately portrayed. It’s through Little Fatty that Dash begins his stratospheric ascent through the murky high-stakes gambling world as he embarks, literally, to manage an illicit floating casino in the Straits of Malacca.
His time aboard “The Floating Diamond” is highly readable and is, without question, rooted in fact as is the selection of undesirable individuals that enable this waterborne den of iniquity. Despite the mountains of cash that Dash amasses, he never appears particularly happy during this time and there is a growing sense of slight boredom and foreboding.
The story then moves to Macau with a similar narrative albeit involving a more elite clientele as he teams up with old HK schoolfriend, Jackson Toh. Although this book leads neatly into the end scenario, personally it lost a touch of momentum, or maybe my interest in the world of Asian gambling began to ebb.
Nevertheless, it does provide a motive for the last book and I was gratified to see a character from the first book reappear; it was clear he would and personally, I was wondering when. Consequently, Pacific Dash closes with a sense of karma, poignancy, and where to now for Mr. Bonaventure II…
Pacific Dash is a consistently entertaining and adventurous ride of a read written with verve and enthusiasm. Highly recommended.
October 8, 2023
I received an ARC copy from the author for my honest opinion.
We get to know Dashiell Bonaventure, the third, on the flight from Illinois to Hong Kong in 1968. At that stage, he was only fifteen years old and unsure what life would be like. Up to that point, he had no understanding of culture differences, world views or that life can throw you curveballs so unexpectedly that it left you as an orphan. A thrilling, sometimes heart breaking and even happy life, was not on the cards yet.
"As I thumbed the cool smooth stone, memories began to flood back from my international past. And all my losses of the past decade morphed and softened into a feeling more like a release, of burdens being lifted.
I understood. It was as clear and powerful as a blinding sunrise.
I was totally untethered and adrift, but in a good way. The old priest was right. I was young, alive and totally free. A global citizen with nothing to lose. A planetary vagabond. My future didn't even need to involve the USA."
Freedom was until his late twenties, as unfamiliar as peeing in a hole, not sure how it all would work out. Something we all can relate to. But once the freedom bug hit, it was not easily contained; it took him on a ride that was noteworthy. Meeting the notorious and famous was part of his education and the road to freedom. Once he hit the vagabond stage, he was well on his way to becoming a legend.
"Such disdain was easy for him now, I mused: he already possessed a mountain of awards. Every high school student knew the Luminoso story. And upon winning a second Nobel Prize by his early thirties he was proclaimed the artistic miracle of the century. His work suggested the intricacy of Joyce, the power of Hemingway, the multi-layered beauty of Marquez. His language was pristine and moving. Compared to all other living authors, he was playing 3-D chess to their tic-tac-toe."
The Luminoso effect he basked in during his university years rubbed off on him well. Being among the greatest, I believe, would do that to you as a person. It paved the road and set him up for life. Maybe not in the way most of us would expect, but in Dash's life, it gave him the understanding he needed of life and the many complexities of human behaviour.
Taken from the cornfields of Illinois to the far east, I was mesmerized by the ever changing landscape of the rich cultures Dash visited. Each character he introduced added more colour to the unfolding story, making it that much interesting and flavourful. The chapters were an enticing kaleidoscope of happenings that flowed with ease, and I struggled to take a break after each.
"This smorgasbord of footloose international youth sat in small clusters on the hard concourse floor, chatting and entertaining themselves as they killed time waiting for a passport stamp and
entry into Bali."
The author's elegant and fluent writing style helped, and his first-hand knowledge of the East made it that more intriguing. Write what you know is definitely a big plus when writing such a full round story of international calibre. The main character's climb to notorious fame was well-thought out, bringing you right into the heart of every decision he has made. The lives that have shaped him and the love he has missed. Each choice was a stepping stone that played a role in his rise from the ranks as King of the Casino. Getting to know the industry and the many pitfalls it presented made this a grand adventure that few lived.
I believe this is the author's first published book and is received well among fellow readers, as seen by the reviews left. I am looking forward to read more from his pen. The easy writing and memoir-travel genre make this a highly recommended book for anyone that defines freedom with a little more dash and adventure than the average joe.
Thanks for the chance to read.
We get to know Dashiell Bonaventure, the third, on the flight from Illinois to Hong Kong in 1968. At that stage, he was only fifteen years old and unsure what life would be like. Up to that point, he had no understanding of culture differences, world views or that life can throw you curveballs so unexpectedly that it left you as an orphan. A thrilling, sometimes heart breaking and even happy life, was not on the cards yet.
"As I thumbed the cool smooth stone, memories began to flood back from my international past. And all my losses of the past decade morphed and softened into a feeling more like a release, of burdens being lifted.
I understood. It was as clear and powerful as a blinding sunrise.
I was totally untethered and adrift, but in a good way. The old priest was right. I was young, alive and totally free. A global citizen with nothing to lose. A planetary vagabond. My future didn't even need to involve the USA."
Freedom was until his late twenties, as unfamiliar as peeing in a hole, not sure how it all would work out. Something we all can relate to. But once the freedom bug hit, it was not easily contained; it took him on a ride that was noteworthy. Meeting the notorious and famous was part of his education and the road to freedom. Once he hit the vagabond stage, he was well on his way to becoming a legend.
"Such disdain was easy for him now, I mused: he already possessed a mountain of awards. Every high school student knew the Luminoso story. And upon winning a second Nobel Prize by his early thirties he was proclaimed the artistic miracle of the century. His work suggested the intricacy of Joyce, the power of Hemingway, the multi-layered beauty of Marquez. His language was pristine and moving. Compared to all other living authors, he was playing 3-D chess to their tic-tac-toe."
The Luminoso effect he basked in during his university years rubbed off on him well. Being among the greatest, I believe, would do that to you as a person. It paved the road and set him up for life. Maybe not in the way most of us would expect, but in Dash's life, it gave him the understanding he needed of life and the many complexities of human behaviour.
Taken from the cornfields of Illinois to the far east, I was mesmerized by the ever changing landscape of the rich cultures Dash visited. Each character he introduced added more colour to the unfolding story, making it that much interesting and flavourful. The chapters were an enticing kaleidoscope of happenings that flowed with ease, and I struggled to take a break after each.
"This smorgasbord of footloose international youth sat in small clusters on the hard concourse floor, chatting and entertaining themselves as they killed time waiting for a passport stamp and
entry into Bali."
The author's elegant and fluent writing style helped, and his first-hand knowledge of the East made it that more intriguing. Write what you know is definitely a big plus when writing such a full round story of international calibre. The main character's climb to notorious fame was well-thought out, bringing you right into the heart of every decision he has made. The lives that have shaped him and the love he has missed. Each choice was a stepping stone that played a role in his rise from the ranks as King of the Casino. Getting to know the industry and the many pitfalls it presented made this a grand adventure that few lived.
I believe this is the author's first published book and is received well among fellow readers, as seen by the reviews left. I am looking forward to read more from his pen. The easy writing and memoir-travel genre make this a highly recommended book for anyone that defines freedom with a little more dash and adventure than the average joe.
Thanks for the chance to read.
October 24, 2023
Great Story
I enjoyed this book. The language was realistic and believable. An intriguing story that moved along quickly and made me want to find out what happened next.
The first book introduces us to teenaged Dash Bonaventure and his family. They move from Chicago to Hong Kong .Dash finds his tribe of goofy, funny friends but things take a sinister turn. He’s torn between friendship and dangerous activity. Will peer pressure test his limits? Dash endures personal set-backs and has to grow up fast.
The second book follows Dash in university, working as an assistant to a brilliant professor. The third book takes Dash to Indonesia and the forth book Malaysia. The fifth book is set in Taiwan where Dash reunites with his old friend, Jackson, from high school in Hong Kong. His life takes several turns and is suspenseful. We follow him to South China and another adventure. Lots of twists and turns. Recommended
I enjoyed this book. The language was realistic and believable. An intriguing story that moved along quickly and made me want to find out what happened next.
The first book introduces us to teenaged Dash Bonaventure and his family. They move from Chicago to Hong Kong .Dash finds his tribe of goofy, funny friends but things take a sinister turn. He’s torn between friendship and dangerous activity. Will peer pressure test his limits? Dash endures personal set-backs and has to grow up fast.
The second book follows Dash in university, working as an assistant to a brilliant professor. The third book takes Dash to Indonesia and the forth book Malaysia. The fifth book is set in Taiwan where Dash reunites with his old friend, Jackson, from high school in Hong Kong. His life takes several turns and is suspenseful. We follow him to South China and another adventure. Lots of twists and turns. Recommended
July 27, 2021
It is said that all great stories are the same in different ways; those ways are evident in the saga of Pacific Dash. You know a truly great book when, “Character is the story.” If you are not attracted to the spirit of adventure that radiates from Dashiell Xavier Bonaventure II, then you need to buy yourself a soul. Dash seems to fit in anywhere he lands whether at the exclusive private school populated by the pampered and sometimes crazy elites of Southeast Asia or whether he is hanging with hippie surfers on jungle beaches. Call it karma or perhaps it is just happenstance that Dash experiences running through the streets of Hong Kong with a bomb laden brief case, saves a half conscious friend from a foolish attempt at surfing, or finds himself trussed up with a bag over his head in the back of a truck. Throughout his adventures, our hero, Dash, never loses his sauve faire that comes from quick wit and a brilliant mind.
Once a great story has a great character it needs to go somewhere. It is said that, “Every great story begins with a journey.” Author, Chet Nairene, doesn’t disappoint. He launches this tale on a jetliner hurtling toward the ground in the skies over Hong Kong; the first of many passages to adventure. With Dash you never know where you will turn up next. The reader is permitted entry to the academia’s inner sanctum of the world’s most lionized literati, swept up in the exotic ritual of a cremation funeral in Bali, and ferried to the luxury of a marginally legal casino for the ultra rich floating in international waters a short helicopter ride from Singapore. It is always and adventure and you will always turn the page to see where you and Dash are headed next.
We have been waiting for an author with the voice and experience of Chet Nairiene. His description of the sights, sounds, even the smells that surrounds the characters of Pacific Dash smack of an authenticity that can only come from an experienced traveler with keen sense for potent narrative. You will thoroughly enjoy Pacific Dash until the moment you finish and, then, begin to crave the next adventure from Nairiene.
Once a great story has a great character it needs to go somewhere. It is said that, “Every great story begins with a journey.” Author, Chet Nairene, doesn’t disappoint. He launches this tale on a jetliner hurtling toward the ground in the skies over Hong Kong; the first of many passages to adventure. With Dash you never know where you will turn up next. The reader is permitted entry to the academia’s inner sanctum of the world’s most lionized literati, swept up in the exotic ritual of a cremation funeral in Bali, and ferried to the luxury of a marginally legal casino for the ultra rich floating in international waters a short helicopter ride from Singapore. It is always and adventure and you will always turn the page to see where you and Dash are headed next.
We have been waiting for an author with the voice and experience of Chet Nairiene. His description of the sights, sounds, even the smells that surrounds the characters of Pacific Dash smack of an authenticity that can only come from an experienced traveler with keen sense for potent narrative. You will thoroughly enjoy Pacific Dash until the moment you finish and, then, begin to crave the next adventure from Nairiene.
October 20, 2021
It is said that all great stories are the same in different ways; those ways are evident in the saga of Pacific Dash. You know a truly great book when, “Character is the story.” If you are not attracted to the spirit of adventure that radiates from Dashiell Xavier Bonaventure II, then you need to buy yourself a soul. Dash seems to fit in anywhere he lands whether at the exclusive private school populated by the pampered and sometimes crazy elites of Southeast Asia or whether he is hanging with hippie surfers on jungle beaches. Call it karma or perhaps it is just happenstance that Dash experiences running through the streets of Hong Kong with a bomb laden brief case, saves a half conscious friend from a foolish attempt at surfing, or finds himself trussed up with a bag over his head in the back of a truck. Throughout his adventures, our hero, Dash, never loses his sauve faire that comes from quick wit and a brilliant mind.
Once a great story has a great character it needs to go somewhere. It is said that, “Every great story begins with a journey.” Author, Chet Nairene, doesn’t disappoint. He launches this tale on a jetliner hurtling toward the ground in the skies over Hong Kong; the first of many passages to adventure. With Dash you never know where you will turn up next. The reader is permitted entry to the academia’s inner sanctum of the world’s most lionized literati, swept up in the exotic ritual of a cremation funeral in Bali, and ferried to the luxury of a marginally legal casino for the ultra rich floating in international waters a short helicopter ride from Singapore. It is always and adventure and you will always turn the page to see where you and Dash are headed next.
We have been waiting for an author with the voice and experience of Chet Nairiene. His description of the sights, sounds, even the smells that surrounds the characters of Pacific Dash smack of an authenticity that can only come from an experienced traveler with keen sense for potent narrative. You will thoroughly enjoy Pacific Dash until the moment you finish and, then, begin to crave the next adventure from Nairiene.
Once a great story has a great character it needs to go somewhere. It is said that, “Every great story begins with a journey.” Author, Chet Nairene, doesn’t disappoint. He launches this tale on a jetliner hurtling toward the ground in the skies over Hong Kong; the first of many passages to adventure. With Dash you never know where you will turn up next. The reader is permitted entry to the academia’s inner sanctum of the world’s most lionized literati, swept up in the exotic ritual of a cremation funeral in Bali, and ferried to the luxury of a marginally legal casino for the ultra rich floating in international waters a short helicopter ride from Singapore. It is always and adventure and you will always turn the page to see where you and Dash are headed next.
We have been waiting for an author with the voice and experience of Chet Nairiene. His description of the sights, sounds, even the smells that surrounds the characters of Pacific Dash smack of an authenticity that can only come from an experienced traveler with keen sense for potent narrative. You will thoroughly enjoy Pacific Dash until the moment you finish and, then, begin to crave the next adventure from Nairiene.
October 20, 2021
It is said that all great stories are the same in different ways; those ways are evident in the saga of Pacific Dash. You know a truly great book when, “Character is the story.” If you are not attracted to the spirit of adventure that radiates from Dashiell Xavier Bonaventure II, then you need to buy yourself a soul. Dash seems to fit in anywhere he lands whether at the exclusive private school populated by the pampered and sometimes crazy elites of Southeast Asia or whether he is hanging with hippie surfers on jungle beaches. Call it karma or perhaps it is just happenstance that Dash experiences running through the streets of Hong Kong with a bomb laden brief case, saves a half conscious friend from a foolish attempt at surfing, or finds himself trussed up with a bag over his head in the back of a truck. Throughout his adventures, our hero, Dash, never loses his sauve faire that comes from quick wit and a brilliant mind.
Once a great story has a great character it needs to go somewhere. It is said that, “Every great story begins with a journey.” Author, Chet Nairene, doesn’t disappoint. He launches this tale on a jetliner hurtling toward the ground in the skies over Hong Kong; the first of many passages to adventure. With Dash you never know where you will turn up next. The reader is permitted entry to the academia’s inner sanctum of the world’s most lionized literati, swept up in the exotic ritual of a cremation funeral in Bali, and ferried to the luxury of a marginally legal casino for the ultra rich floating in international waters a short helicopter ride from Singapore. It is always and adventure and you will always turn the page to see where you and Dash are headed next.
We have been waiting for an author with the voice and experience of Chet Nairiene. His description of the sights, sounds, even the smells that surrounds the characters of Pacific Dash smack of an authenticity that can only come from an experienced traveler with keen sense for potent narrative. You will thoroughly enjoy Pacific Dash until the moment you finish and, then, begin to crave the next adventure from Nairiene.
Once a great story has a great character it needs to go somewhere. It is said that, “Every great story begins with a journey.” Author, Chet Nairene, doesn’t disappoint. He launches this tale on a jetliner hurtling toward the ground in the skies over Hong Kong; the first of many passages to adventure. With Dash you never know where you will turn up next. The reader is permitted entry to the academia’s inner sanctum of the world’s most lionized literati, swept up in the exotic ritual of a cremation funeral in Bali, and ferried to the luxury of a marginally legal casino for the ultra rich floating in international waters a short helicopter ride from Singapore. It is always and adventure and you will always turn the page to see where you and Dash are headed next.
We have been waiting for an author with the voice and experience of Chet Nairiene. His description of the sights, sounds, even the smells that surrounds the characters of Pacific Dash smack of an authenticity that can only come from an experienced traveler with keen sense for potent narrative. You will thoroughly enjoy Pacific Dash until the moment you finish and, then, begin to crave the next adventure from Nairiene.
May 6, 2023
This story is presented as Adventure Travel. It lives up to the billing, but there is an overtone of Fantasy that mirrors how a certain level of the population lives. A world of riches and influence, where everything comes easy, and the troubles of ordinary people don’t intrude.
On the positive side, this gives the main character continual optimism about how his life will turn out, and this lifts the tone of the writing. On the negative side, his blithe ignorance gets him into trouble more often than not, which creates the conflict in the book.
The story also contains hints of autobiography, with wonderful, detailed descriptions of exotic settings. This author has definitely been there and loves the area.
Problem with a first person, autobiographic style is the tendency to downplay the conflict. It’s the macho sort of , “Yeah, it was tough, but I coped with it.” This tends to reduce suspense and often gets in the way of emotional involvement by the reader.
If I saw one weakness in this story, it was the approach to life of the main character. Good heroes are people who act. They make decisions that count and then see the action through. This character rather wanders through life. Things happen to him, and he doesn’t make decisions or take charge. His life oscillates through stages where he is suddenly free to choose his path. Instead of taking control, he throws himself onto the mercy of fate, and away he goes again. He is a likeable, personable character, and he has all the right feelings, but he doesn’t always follow through with his actions, so he doesn’t garner much respect from the reader.
The secondary characters are vivid and, like the settings, exotic and a touch stereotyped. This sets up an appealing contrast with the young Midwestern main character and gives the reader an avenue into their bizarre world.
The conclusion of the story is open-ended, leaving the possibility of either a sequel for the characters or a daydream for the reader.
A light, entertaining introduction to a time and place most of us know little about.
On the positive side, this gives the main character continual optimism about how his life will turn out, and this lifts the tone of the writing. On the negative side, his blithe ignorance gets him into trouble more often than not, which creates the conflict in the book.
The story also contains hints of autobiography, with wonderful, detailed descriptions of exotic settings. This author has definitely been there and loves the area.
Problem with a first person, autobiographic style is the tendency to downplay the conflict. It’s the macho sort of , “Yeah, it was tough, but I coped with it.” This tends to reduce suspense and often gets in the way of emotional involvement by the reader.
If I saw one weakness in this story, it was the approach to life of the main character. Good heroes are people who act. They make decisions that count and then see the action through. This character rather wanders through life. Things happen to him, and he doesn’t make decisions or take charge. His life oscillates through stages where he is suddenly free to choose his path. Instead of taking control, he throws himself onto the mercy of fate, and away he goes again. He is a likeable, personable character, and he has all the right feelings, but he doesn’t always follow through with his actions, so he doesn’t garner much respect from the reader.
The secondary characters are vivid and, like the settings, exotic and a touch stereotyped. This sets up an appealing contrast with the young Midwestern main character and gives the reader an avenue into their bizarre world.
The conclusion of the story is open-ended, leaving the possibility of either a sequel for the characters or a daydream for the reader.
A light, entertaining introduction to a time and place most of us know little about.
June 11, 2023
‘Pacific Dash’ is a travel fiction tale about Dash Bonaventure, a young American who 1969 moved to Hong Kong. The move alone creates many challenges and makes him pursue an adventure and go through things naturally but differently. As Dash falls in love, finds friends, and gets involved with the illegal floating casino business, things take off slightly, even more than expected after this. The tale becomes more thrilling and action-oriented.
As you read along, you also understand Dash, his personality, thoughts and feelings. The author creates a very interesting and impactful story. Amongst other things, the locations and travel settings were thought-provoking.
I recommend this book to fiction readers.
As you read along, you also understand Dash, his personality, thoughts and feelings. The author creates a very interesting and impactful story. Amongst other things, the locations and travel settings were thought-provoking.
I recommend this book to fiction readers.
September 13, 2023
Pacific Dash is a saga of personal growth and adventure in foreign lands. It's a well-written and highly detailed novel that held my interest from beginning to end. This book has a little bit of everything: suspense, danger, intrigue, and romance, all in enjoyable setting.
The plot is entertaining, and the MCs development is rgeat. Dash undergoes continuous evolution throughout the book, something that bothers me in other books. I would have liked to see some more development with some of the secondary characters. While the ending left me with some questions, overall it was highly entertaining.
The plot is entertaining, and the MCs development is rgeat. Dash undergoes continuous evolution throughout the book, something that bothers me in other books. I would have liked to see some more development with some of the secondary characters. While the ending left me with some questions, overall it was highly entertaining.
January 5, 2022
Nice page turner. Pacific Dash is about Dashiell Bonaventure, whose father moved his family to Hong Kong when work transferred him. Dash experiences many things, which makes the story fun and interesting. I love the transition from awkward teen to casino king. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys international adventure.
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway.
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway.
April 28, 2023
What a fun book to read!! It starts out so generic- boy moves with family to HK, starts prevail school, and makes international friends. Then it morphs into a story about a young college student starry eyed for his professor’s life, then flips a switch to casinos in Singapore, finishing back in HK. It’s a wild ride that is very entertaining.
December 17, 2022
Very entertaining
A truly delightful read, but somewhat scary if the descriptions of doing business in that part of the world are true! I will look forward to the next chapter in Dash's adventures.
A truly delightful read, but somewhat scary if the descriptions of doing business in that part of the world are true! I will look forward to the next chapter in Dash's adventures.
July 18, 2023
I was intrigued when I saw this book claimed it would be a good fit for those who enjoy travel memoirs, which I do. I thoroughly enjoyed the authors ability to bring the destinations, cultures and food to life which made it a good reading experience for me.
August 10, 2023
So Good!
A terrific saga of one man's growth and journey in foreign lands. This was well written and very detailed. It held my interest from beginning to end. Complete with a bit of everything: suspense, danger, intrigue, torture, and foreign phrases and foods. Very enjoyable!
A terrific saga of one man's growth and journey in foreign lands. This was well written and very detailed. It held my interest from beginning to end. Complete with a bit of everything: suspense, danger, intrigue, torture, and foreign phrases and foods. Very enjoyable!
December 14, 2021
Enthralling
Get ready to dive into the life of Dash and all the twists and turns thru his constant new life waves.
Book was gifted as a Goodreads giveaway.
Get ready to dive into the life of Dash and all the twists and turns thru his constant new life waves.
Book was gifted as a Goodreads giveaway.
December 14, 2023
This captivating novel recounts at breakneck speed the adventures of the aptly named Dash Bonaventure, from a brief teenage educational interlude in Hong Kong, through studies and post-graduate work in the US to decades of drama in Asia.
The fast flowing, well written narrative and the engaging, if flawed, MC mostly carry the reader along but there are slower patches. Credibility is stretched by Dash’s extraordinarily improbable series of disasters, escapes and serendipitous opportunities, entertaining as they are, but these are the hallmarks of a picaresque novel — realism it is not! The generous cast of characters, many of various degrees of villainy, are mostly convincingly drawn, although some risk becoming caricatures of themselves and others could perhaps benefit from a little more depth.
The early period where Dash is at college and working for the delightfully crafted character of Demy, a gilded literary star, is based on a clever premise which launches the next phase of Dash’s adventures, followed by the next and beyond, like a series of falling dominoes; the Demy sub-plot has ripples which pleasingly and unexpectedly reappear much later in the narrative and trigger yet another phase.
At times I felt that too much information was conveyed through hefty chunks of dialogue — the explanations of Asian business cultures and mores and details of the mechanics of the gambling industry, while providing fascinating insights to an outsider, could perhaps have been delivered more subtly. And while the descriptions of settings — Bali in particular — are vivid and atmospheric, the lavish use of adjectives sometimes palled.
But these are subjective stylistic quibbles and are in any event minor flaws in an otherwise exhilarating and colourful read.
The fast flowing, well written narrative and the engaging, if flawed, MC mostly carry the reader along but there are slower patches. Credibility is stretched by Dash’s extraordinarily improbable series of disasters, escapes and serendipitous opportunities, entertaining as they are, but these are the hallmarks of a picaresque novel — realism it is not! The generous cast of characters, many of various degrees of villainy, are mostly convincingly drawn, although some risk becoming caricatures of themselves and others could perhaps benefit from a little more depth.
The early period where Dash is at college and working for the delightfully crafted character of Demy, a gilded literary star, is based on a clever premise which launches the next phase of Dash’s adventures, followed by the next and beyond, like a series of falling dominoes; the Demy sub-plot has ripples which pleasingly and unexpectedly reappear much later in the narrative and trigger yet another phase.
At times I felt that too much information was conveyed through hefty chunks of dialogue — the explanations of Asian business cultures and mores and details of the mechanics of the gambling industry, while providing fascinating insights to an outsider, could perhaps have been delivered more subtly. And while the descriptions of settings — Bali in particular — are vivid and atmospheric, the lavish use of adjectives sometimes palled.
But these are subjective stylistic quibbles and are in any event minor flaws in an otherwise exhilarating and colourful read.
February 9, 2024
A Whirlwind Adventure
This novel is not just a story; it's an experience, a wild ride that captures the essence of a continent in all its multifaceted glory.
The author masterfully transports you across Asia, making each destination come alive with vivid descriptions that feel so real, you can almost smell the spicy street food and hear the bustling city sounds. The narrative is a perfect blend of high-stakes drama and introspective moments.
What sets "Pacific Dash" apart is its authenticity. The author's deep knowledge of Southeast Asia's culture, history, and underbelly lends the book an air of credibility that's hard to find in travel fiction. The historical accuracy and cultural insights enrich the narrative, making it educational as well as entertaining.
If there's any critique, it's that the whirlwind pace and the sheer abundance of experiences can sometimes feel overwhelming, making you wish for a moment's pause to catch your breath. However, this relentless pace is also what makes "Pacific Dash" such a compelling read.
It's a book that takes you on a journey not just across continents, but through the highs and lows of life itself. Whether you're an armchair traveler or an experienced vagabond, this book will leave you with a serious case of wanderlust and a deep appreciation for the beauty and complexity of Asia.
This novel is not just a story; it's an experience, a wild ride that captures the essence of a continent in all its multifaceted glory.
The author masterfully transports you across Asia, making each destination come alive with vivid descriptions that feel so real, you can almost smell the spicy street food and hear the bustling city sounds. The narrative is a perfect blend of high-stakes drama and introspective moments.
What sets "Pacific Dash" apart is its authenticity. The author's deep knowledge of Southeast Asia's culture, history, and underbelly lends the book an air of credibility that's hard to find in travel fiction. The historical accuracy and cultural insights enrich the narrative, making it educational as well as entertaining.
If there's any critique, it's that the whirlwind pace and the sheer abundance of experiences can sometimes feel overwhelming, making you wish for a moment's pause to catch your breath. However, this relentless pace is also what makes "Pacific Dash" such a compelling read.
It's a book that takes you on a journey not just across continents, but through the highs and lows of life itself. Whether you're an armchair traveler or an experienced vagabond, this book will leave you with a serious case of wanderlust and a deep appreciation for the beauty and complexity of Asia.
April 30, 2025
Pacific Dash: From Asia Vagabond to Casino King is a joy to read, even in the detailing of the everyday occurrences in the main character’s life. Granted, there were only short bursts of these ordinary instances. This saga is intrepid traveler Dashiell “Dash” Xavier Bonaventure II’s adventures in Asia, with a segue in rural Illinois, his birthplace. It is divided into six books, each depicting a specific period in his life.
A positive aspect of this book is that it does not pretend to be anything more than it is—an entertaining read, with the thrills and fast pace of a graphic novel but without the visual artwork. (Instead, the book compels the reader to imagine the descriptions in his head, as all good ones do.) It does not proselytize, despite the fact that one can glean several life lessons from the characters’ experiences. Most of these boiled down to one: good karma begets good karma… likewise with the bad kind (although Dash insisted he doesn’t believe in it).
In any case, the recurrent theme in his life was that whenever he saved someone’s hide (often without meaning to, or did so but reluctantly), that person showed up later in the novel to save him back when Dash found himself in deep sh*t.
This book shows the protagonist as a normal, flawed human being yet intermittently thrust into hero status, albeit unintentional. In fact, most of his life, he seemed to be thrown against the waves and just rode them out, rather than acted on a specific, discovered life purpose with unflinching fervor. So, motivational tome it ain’t! It won’t turn wayward souls (or in Dash’s case, vagabonds in Asia) into altruistic Gandhis.
Through the shenanigans of Dash and his mates, the reader will learn about the internal machinations of the casino business, gangster strategies on how to surreptitiously steal fuel, and some clever but shady business practices. A word of caution to those who plan on aping said tips, which range from semi-legal to barely legal to mafia-grade: be prepared to face the consequences.
Since the author spent nearly 30 years in Asia (according to his bio), he has amassed insider knowledge of parts of the continent, as well as the inner workings of the gambling industry, specifically casino management. One could guess that this novel is autobiographical. Either that, or certain events in the book had really happened in the writer’s life, even though the disclaimer said otherwise.
The author, Chet Nairene, was a journalist early in life (and so was his protagonist), so it is no surprise that his expertise of describing, depicting, and weaving of events, scenarios, characters, and their environments was apparent. Since journalists are trained in straightforward, concise, and no-frills delivery of facts, not all of them are equipped with the capacity for dynamic storytelling. The author owns this skill.
His expertise, however, does not extend to proofreading, editing, and formatting. There were some technical errors in the manuscript—mostly structural; a few, grammatical. The tabs were too big, possibly half an inch. A quarter would have been better, since the paragraphs were already separated by lines. Inconsistencies in hyphenation, spacing, italicization, and punctuation abounded.
He had a particular issue with commas: he placed them where they weren’t necessary and did not do so where they were. The average reader wouldn’t notice these errors, and if he did, he wouldn’t care. But to nitpickers like this reviewer, these are irksome. And this is why this book, although high on the entertainment and reader-pleasing scale, didn’t get that extra star that would have catapulted it to perfect.
Overall, however, Pacific Dash is a mega-satisfying read. There isn’t a boring scene in it, even during times of transition. The characters are well thought out and engaging, with unique quirks that lend credence to the narrative.
A positive aspect of this book is that it does not pretend to be anything more than it is—an entertaining read, with the thrills and fast pace of a graphic novel but without the visual artwork. (Instead, the book compels the reader to imagine the descriptions in his head, as all good ones do.) It does not proselytize, despite the fact that one can glean several life lessons from the characters’ experiences. Most of these boiled down to one: good karma begets good karma… likewise with the bad kind (although Dash insisted he doesn’t believe in it).
In any case, the recurrent theme in his life was that whenever he saved someone’s hide (often without meaning to, or did so but reluctantly), that person showed up later in the novel to save him back when Dash found himself in deep sh*t.
This book shows the protagonist as a normal, flawed human being yet intermittently thrust into hero status, albeit unintentional. In fact, most of his life, he seemed to be thrown against the waves and just rode them out, rather than acted on a specific, discovered life purpose with unflinching fervor. So, motivational tome it ain’t! It won’t turn wayward souls (or in Dash’s case, vagabonds in Asia) into altruistic Gandhis.
Through the shenanigans of Dash and his mates, the reader will learn about the internal machinations of the casino business, gangster strategies on how to surreptitiously steal fuel, and some clever but shady business practices. A word of caution to those who plan on aping said tips, which range from semi-legal to barely legal to mafia-grade: be prepared to face the consequences.
Since the author spent nearly 30 years in Asia (according to his bio), he has amassed insider knowledge of parts of the continent, as well as the inner workings of the gambling industry, specifically casino management. One could guess that this novel is autobiographical. Either that, or certain events in the book had really happened in the writer’s life, even though the disclaimer said otherwise.
The author, Chet Nairene, was a journalist early in life (and so was his protagonist), so it is no surprise that his expertise of describing, depicting, and weaving of events, scenarios, characters, and their environments was apparent. Since journalists are trained in straightforward, concise, and no-frills delivery of facts, not all of them are equipped with the capacity for dynamic storytelling. The author owns this skill.
His expertise, however, does not extend to proofreading, editing, and formatting. There were some technical errors in the manuscript—mostly structural; a few, grammatical. The tabs were too big, possibly half an inch. A quarter would have been better, since the paragraphs were already separated by lines. Inconsistencies in hyphenation, spacing, italicization, and punctuation abounded.
He had a particular issue with commas: he placed them where they weren’t necessary and did not do so where they were. The average reader wouldn’t notice these errors, and if he did, he wouldn’t care. But to nitpickers like this reviewer, these are irksome. And this is why this book, although high on the entertainment and reader-pleasing scale, didn’t get that extra star that would have catapulted it to perfect.
Overall, however, Pacific Dash is a mega-satisfying read. There isn’t a boring scene in it, even during times of transition. The characters are well thought out and engaging, with unique quirks that lend credence to the narrative.
December 15, 2023
Pacific Dash divides the principal character's life into sections of events beginning as a teenager and ending in thirty-something adulthood. Although his moral compass isn't the strongest, he has several admirable qualities such as loyalty, being able to live in the moment, and not allowing money to govern his life (he loses mountains of it, then gains mountains back several times, and doesn't miss a step). In short, he's a likable fellow and your concern for him grows as the story propels itself to an unexpected page-turning finale.
What I enjoyed most, was the writer's astounding attention to detail when designing exotic scenes. He leaves no element behind as he creates the perfect 'feel' for that moment in time. This was not a rushed script, but a labor born from experience, rich observations, a desire for perfection, and of course, a compelling writing style.
If you've ever backpacked through a country or nestled down in a hidden Asian cubby hole for a few weeks, or lived abroad and adjusted to a different culture, you will find this book nostalgically enchanting.
And if you haven't, read it... and you feel as if you have.
What I enjoyed most, was the writer's astounding attention to detail when designing exotic scenes. He leaves no element behind as he creates the perfect 'feel' for that moment in time. This was not a rushed script, but a labor born from experience, rich observations, a desire for perfection, and of course, a compelling writing style.
If you've ever backpacked through a country or nestled down in a hidden Asian cubby hole for a few weeks, or lived abroad and adjusted to a different culture, you will find this book nostalgically enchanting.
And if you haven't, read it... and you feel as if you have.
February 5, 2024
"Pacific Dash" races through Asia, weaving a tapestry of adventure, romance, and peril.
The storytelling is vibrant. Dash's escapades, from Hong Kong to Macau's casinos, are enthralling but occasionally leave you gasping for breath. The attention to detail vividly immerses you in each location, from Indonesian jungles to high-sea baccarat tables.
While characters like Snakehead Goh add charm, some lack depth. The historical accuracy offers educational insights but occasionally interrupts the narrative flow. Dash's romantic encounters spice things up but could use more exploration for emotional depth.
The pinnacle is Dash's rise in Macau's VIP gambling trade, where tension escalates palpably. However, the resolution feels rushed, leaving you yearning for a more satisfying conclusion.
"Pacific Dash" is a captivating adventure for armchair travelers, offering glimpses into Asia's vibrant tapestry. If you crave a fast-paced escapade with a dash of romance and danger, this book is your ticket.
However, those desiring a more measured narrative with in-depth character exploration might find themselves longing for a deeper dive into Dash's fascinating life.
The storytelling is vibrant. Dash's escapades, from Hong Kong to Macau's casinos, are enthralling but occasionally leave you gasping for breath. The attention to detail vividly immerses you in each location, from Indonesian jungles to high-sea baccarat tables.
While characters like Snakehead Goh add charm, some lack depth. The historical accuracy offers educational insights but occasionally interrupts the narrative flow. Dash's romantic encounters spice things up but could use more exploration for emotional depth.
The pinnacle is Dash's rise in Macau's VIP gambling trade, where tension escalates palpably. However, the resolution feels rushed, leaving you yearning for a more satisfying conclusion.
"Pacific Dash" is a captivating adventure for armchair travelers, offering glimpses into Asia's vibrant tapestry. If you crave a fast-paced escapade with a dash of romance and danger, this book is your ticket.
However, those desiring a more measured narrative with in-depth character exploration might find themselves longing for a deeper dive into Dash's fascinating life.
February 16, 2024
I wasn’t sure what to make of this book at first, as it seemed like it might read as a memoir it was that realistic! What elevates it is the narrative - it flows just right with a wittiness and tension which keeps you turning the pages. I loved the vivid descriptions of the settings, from a young boys take on Hong Kong to the casinos. The stakes rise as the book progresses and I don’t think I’ve rooted for a character as much in a long time. I’m sure this book will appeal to a wide variety of readers - from those wanting a nostalgia trip to the time when airmail letters were blue to those looking to experience different cultures all over the world, as seen by Dash, a loveable, brave character.
Bravo! A really fun read.
Bravo! A really fun read.
January 15, 2024
In the tumultuous year of 1968, a job transfer thrusts the family of young Dashiell Bonaventure across the globe, from the sprawling cornfields of Illinois to the sparkling, exotic world of Hong Kong. The bustling cityscape overwhelms Dash with its vibrant sights and sounds, a stark contrast to the quiet countryside he grew up in. He can't help but feel like he's stepped into a whole new universe. But as he quickly learns, this is no temporary adventure; it is the beginning of a lifelong odyssey where he will crisscross continents and immerse himself in the diverse cultures of Asia in search of self-discovery. The streets are alive with bustling markets and fragrant street food, while colorful temples and skyscrapers tower above him. For Dash, every day feels like an endless possibility for exploration and growth.
Chet has crafted this novel beautifully, and is one I can only imagine is drawn from his own experiences in the world. Pacific Dash is a delightful novel, one full of endless possibilities and adventure. I’d recommend this novel to any travel bugs and enthusiasts.
Chet has crafted this novel beautifully, and is one I can only imagine is drawn from his own experiences in the world. Pacific Dash is a delightful novel, one full of endless possibilities and adventure. I’d recommend this novel to any travel bugs and enthusiasts.
November 7, 2024
Wow, from the first paragraphs you are caught and want to read more. Reminds me of my Manila landing. Seems you landing on house lol. Very exciting book from start to finish. It really draws you in from the first chapter. I shall be rereading again with more patience this time since I rushed through wanted to know the ending and may have missed stuff. Dash really goes through many twist and turns in this book. The authors vivid description of the places Dash goes to was well done and perfectly captures the essence of the locations. Some incidents were heart-breaking, while others made you laugh out loud. Solo travel really places you to meeting different people and makes you becomes one with the cultures. From student to gambler, to thinking he was going to crash in a plane, the author really has a imaginative mind combing all the adventures rolled into one cool novel. Well written and I will be reading again soon. Love the way it was written also, seems like a biography. Is it one?
December 3, 2023
Wow, excellent, an unnerving wild thrilling ride for an American who studies hard, travels far and has adventures that most of us will only ever dream of. The research into this novel makes it doubly engaging, I read it in two days, immersive. 5 stars
December 15, 2023
"Pacific Dash: From Asia Vagabond to Casino King" is an enthralling adventure that takes readers on a captivating journey through the colorful and exotic landscapes of Asia. Dash's character is a delight to follow, and his adventures are filled with unexpected twists and turns that keep you hooked from start to finish. The author's vivid descriptions transport you to the heart of each destination, making you feel like you're right there alongside Dash. This book is a delightful blend of travelogue, romance, and adventure, and it's a must-read for anyone who loves exploring new cultures and seeking out thrilling tales of self-discovery. Chet Nairene's storytelling prowess shines brightly in this exciting novel, leaving you eagerly awaiting the next chapter of Dash's epic journey. Highly recommended!
March 28, 2024
fantastic from start to finish
Fantastic from start to finish. Dash’s life took some unexpected twists and turns but he just continued to roll with the punches. The whole story was an adventure, and it was written so eloquently, that as a reader, we feel we are part of it. I loved how the story came full circle in the end, with Dash meeting someone from his past in the most unexpected way. This was a thoroughly enjoyable five star read.
Fantastic from start to finish. Dash’s life took some unexpected twists and turns but he just continued to roll with the punches. The whole story was an adventure, and it was written so eloquently, that as a reader, we feel we are part of it. I loved how the story came full circle in the end, with Dash meeting someone from his past in the most unexpected way. This was a thoroughly enjoyable five star read.
July 3, 2025
Pacific Dash: From Asia Vagabond to Casino King tells the life story of Dashiell "Dash" Bonaventure. The writing is immersive and polished, with the book reading more like a biography than a novel.
Dash’s journey begins in Asia when his father, a corporate executive, relocates the family there. Their expatriate life is one of comfort until tragedy strikes with the death of his father. Dash returns to the U.S. His mother remarries, and Dash studies literature in college, only to be hit by another loss when his mother dies and his stepfather inherits everything, leaving Dash with nothing from his mother’s estate.
Nearly broke, he returns to Asia, drawn by its lower cost of living and memories of his life as a child there. His life continues to be marked by hardship, but he eventually finds financial success in the casino industry.
While the story is compelling, the ending feels abrupt. Nevertheless, the overall read is enjoyable, especially for those interested in expat life in Asia and unconventional success stories.
Dash’s journey begins in Asia when his father, a corporate executive, relocates the family there. Their expatriate life is one of comfort until tragedy strikes with the death of his father. Dash returns to the U.S. His mother remarries, and Dash studies literature in college, only to be hit by another loss when his mother dies and his stepfather inherits everything, leaving Dash with nothing from his mother’s estate.
Nearly broke, he returns to Asia, drawn by its lower cost of living and memories of his life as a child there. His life continues to be marked by hardship, but he eventually finds financial success in the casino industry.
While the story is compelling, the ending feels abrupt. Nevertheless, the overall read is enjoyable, especially for those interested in expat life in Asia and unconventional success stories.
February 12, 2024
What a great book to dive into if you're seeking a story filled with important life lessons and self-discovery! It follows the inspiring journey of Dashell Bonaventure, referred to as Dash. The author skillfully guides readers across continents, immersing them in diverse cultures and breathtaking landscapes while introducing a vibrant cast of characters. What sets this narrative apart is its thrilling unpredictability, filled with unexpected twists and turns that keep readers eagerly engaged. Along Dash's journey, he encounters both friends and enemies, facing challenges and adversities that reveal insightful and valuable lessons. From heartwarming encounters to heart-wrenching setbacks, their journey is a rollercoaster of emotions, leaving a lasting impact on those who embark on it. This book strikes the perfect balance between entertainment and enlightenment, delivering many moving moments and leaving you wanting more. Without a doubt, it's a compelling read that I wholeheartedly recommend picking up! Trust me, you will not be disappointed.
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