A very enjoyable and charming mystery that is elevated to another level because of its historical setting in colonial Fiji.
Many New Zealanders will have been to Fiji and they, and others, will find this book extremely interesting. It is highly recommended for: enjoyment of an engaging mystery, furthering one’s knowledge, and great discussion.
I always love a
good mystery but this one has something extra.
The
author describes herself as Fijian Indian Australian. She knew nothing about her Indian heritage
until she went to India in her late 20s and saw the poverty of the Outcaste
people. She was overwhelmed and wanted
to know more. With her research she learnt about the
‘indentured servitude programme’ and this book evolved.
Sergeant Akal Singh
is our protagonist. He was a young
detective in the Royal Hong Kong Police Force in 1914 but was banished to Fiji
for a professional mistake. The head of
police in Fiji reluctantly accepts him but treats him with disdain. While the reader wonders what on earth Akal
did wrong, we come to trust him.
An indentured woman
goes missing in Fiji and the head of police assigns Akal to the case as he sees
it as an ‘Indian issue’. Akal reluctantly
investigates the disappearance, but he initially thinks the woman has probably
run off with another man. Through these
investigations we come to learn of the effects of colonialism and the racism of
white plantation owners.
The author tempers
the harshness of the servitude programme with appealing characters. This mystery is an easy read and is a winner
in its genre.
This is not a literary read, but it is a well-written mystery and will suit those who appreciate a lighter read. I found Sergeant Akal Singh very appealing and will read any further tales from this author.
