Murder in the Pacific: Mt Yasur

  'Book 1 in the series was Shortlisted for 2024 Ned Kelly Awards, Best Debut Crime Fiction'
In the heart of Vanuatu's Tanna island, Hu Lee, the leader of an aid agency, meets a tragic end, fatally stabbed amidst a tsunami evacuation drill. With no witnesses, Sergeant George Long, visiting for the wedding of Constable Jayline Oli, is thrust into the role of lead investigator. Ordered by his superiors in Vila, he delves into a perplexing case that draws the attention of the Vanuatu Government, police force, and Chinese Embassy.

As George and partner Jayline Oli dig deeper, a web of debts owed to Lee surfaces, revealing a growing list of potential motives and suspects. Their path to the truth is fraught with obstacles. Hindered by uncooperative local law enforcement, an unexpected visit from a Chinese Embassy official, and the unsettling possibility of family involvement, George and Jayline must traverse Vanuatu's rugged terrain – from the historic town of Lenakel to the summit of Mt Yasur, an active volcano.
 
As the investigation unfolds, George's mixed heritage adds another layer of complexity, further entangling him in a case that becomes increasingly personal. While George's own life unravels and with stunning landscapes as a backdrop, the duo races against time to untangle a web of secrets and deception …

Matt Francis is an Australian-based academic with a love of Vanuatu and the Pacific. He has spent the last two decades researching and writing about this part of the world. Matt began his career working for an international aid agency and has undertaken development work across Asia and the Pacific. Matt’s academic research has largely focused on the Pacific, where he has written on sustainability of aid projects, national identity, religion and development action, children with disability, and humanitarian responses. He continues to work as a university professor and still undertakes field-work across the Pacific.Matt lives in Melbourne with his wife and three children.

This item is eligible for free returns within 30 days of delivery. See our returns policy for further details.