I bought this book because I had done a two-week job in Samoa many years ago (early 90s). I was only in Pago Pago for parts of two days; the rest of the time was in Western Samoa over on the next island. There are some significant cultural differences between the two countries.

Nevertheless, a mystery set in Samoa was a fascinating read for me. I enjoyed this book. The things I think I learned about Samoan culture were reaffirmed by what I read here. (It makes me wonder, however, if the author's take on the culture and mine are both just a Palangi's interpretation of what it really is.... I know that outsiders who try to explain my Utah Mormon culture NEVER ever get it right. The ascribe their own reasons to the things they see and just don't get it.)

Uh, excuse me. Back to the book at hand. I always have a bit of difficulty with main characters who are morally a bit loose. The policeman who is the viewpoint character here has a loose idea of what's right, but does work to make things right in the end.

It has been several months since I read this, and I don't remember all the details. The above is the major impression I recall from my reading of the book.

This one book took care of my need to explore Samoa a bit more. I don't think I'll be getting the next one in the series.

Share/Like this Review?