Pago Pago Tango

Apelu Soifua is a Samoan-American police officer who investigates a fatal shooting at a nightclub in Tafuna, a city located on a tropical paradise. He is dragged under by the investigation and seeks out what really went missing. The book is perfect for armchair traveling mystery lovers and has vivid and poetic descriptions of the Samoan landscape.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 267 pages
Publication date: 28 February 2024
Publisher: Open Road Media

The city of Tafuna, nestled amidst a tropical paradise, may seem like an idyllic haven, but it is not immune to the darker aspects of human existence. Like any other urban center, Tafuna witnesses its fair share of murder, drug trafficking, and robbery. However, it is in this unique setting that Apelu Soifua finds himself at the forefront of law enforcement, as he seamlessly straddles two worlds: San Francisco, where he began his career, and his native Samoa.

On a routine burglary call, Apelu finds himself venturing into a palangi, or Caucasian, neighborhood. The victim, a Vice President at SeaKing Tuna, the largest employer on the island, reports only a few items missing from their home. However, a tragic shooting at a nightclub a few days later sparks Apelu's curiosity and directs him toward the daughter of the SeaKing Tuna executive. With the assistance of local reporter Lupe, Apelu embarks on a perilous quest to unravel a wave of violence that stems from the initial burglary. As he delves deeper into the investigation, Apelu quickly realizes that he has ventured into treacherous waters, where his very existence is threatened.

"Perfect for any armchair traveling mystery lover," praises Booklist, "Enright's descriptions of the Samoan landscape are vivid and poetic." Kittling: Books adds, "Enright meticulously interweaves the experience and landscapes of Samoa's mountains, rainforests, and jungles that he knows so well." The Providence Journal highlights, "The island setting is a terrific backdrop for the story, one that has Soifua bridging the cultural chasm between the local population and the American community." Mysterious Reviews echoes this sentiment, stating, "The island setting is a terrific backdrop for the story, one that has Soifua bridging the cultural chasm between the local population and the American community."

Through his captivating storytelling, Enright invites readers to embark on a journey that traverses the vibrant tapestry of Samoa's culture and landscapes. The author's meticulous attention to detail and vivid descriptions transport readers to the heart of Tafuna, where the frigate birds soar effortlessly through the sky, blending seamlessly with the clouds. The city's unique blend of traditional and modern influences creates a rich tapestry that adds depth and authenticity to the narrative.

As Apelu Soifua navigates the treacherous waters of crime and corruption, he must confront not only the physical dangers posed by his adversaries but also the cultural barriers that separate him from the local population. His unwavering commitment to justice and his ability to bridge the cultural divide make him a formidable ally in the fight against crime.

"Enrights portrait of cultural collision is the heart of this engaging series debut," concludes Booklist. "The city of Tafuna may be located on a tropical paradise, but its no stranger to crime. Just like anywhere else in the world, it has its fair share of murder, drugs, and robbery. Which makes Apelu Soifua the perfect man for his job. Hes a cop of two worlds: San Francisco, where he started his career, and now his native Samoa."

Dimension: 203 x 133 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781504079037