The Dead Don't Dance

American Samoan culture is brought to life in this mystery novel by the author of Fire Knife Dancing. Det. Sgt. Apelu Soifua retreats to the island of Ofu to heal after the loss of a loved one. He brings his oldest son, Sanele, to live with him, but their reunion is marred by the news that a resort hotel is being built on the pristine Toaga beach. When one of the developers is decapitated and his head goes missing, Apelu suspects that something supernatural has been awakened and will stop at nothing until it gets what it wants.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 253 pages
Publication date: 28 February 2024
Publisher: Open Road Media

Nestled within the captivating embrace of the Pacific Ocean, the island of Ofu emerges as a hauntingly enigmatic realm, where the vibrant tapestry of American Samoan culture intertwines with the treacherous forces of destiny. In this captivating mystery penned by the acclaimed author of Fire Knife Dancing, a profound sense of loss lingers in the air, as Det. Sgt. Apelu Soifua finds solace in the isolated sanctuary of his father's land, seeking solace from the shattered remnants of his soul. The isolation of this tranquil paradise, coupled with the solace of alcohol, offers a temporary respite from the anguish that consumes him. However, the tranquility of his seclusion is soon disrupted by the arrival of two national park workers, along with a local outcast who has chosen to reside in the rugged bush for nearly twenty years. Their companionship serves as a beacon of companionship amidst the desolation, providing solace to Apelu in his solitude. Yet, the tranquility of this harmonious existence is ephemeral, as a looming threat emerges on the horizon. A company, driven by the insatiable desire for profit, intends to construct a luxurious resort hotel on the pristine shores of Toaga beach. The locals, well-versed in the island's haunted history, harbor a deep-seated fear that the spirits that once roamed these lands will once again exert their malevolent influence, driving away those who dare to trespass upon their sacred grounds. As the development project progresses, a series of unsettling events unfold, culminating in the gruesome decapitation of one of the developers, and the disappearance of his head. Apelu, haunted by a nagging sense of foreboding, begins to unravel the mysterious threads that connect this tragedy to the restless spirits that haunt the island. As he delves deeper into the enigmatic realm, he realizes that the forces at play are not limited to the realm of human imagination, but rather transcend the boundaries of the supernatural. The island, once asleep, has awakened, and it will not rest until it fulfills its insatiable thirst for retribution. In this gripping tale of suspense and intrigue, John Enright masterfully weaves together a tapestry of story, writing style, character, and culture, creating a series of mysteries that are both lyrically evocative and meticulously researched. Jungle Beat, the first installment in this captivating series, sets the stage for a thrilling adventure that promises to keep readers on the edge of their seats, as Apelu and his companions navigate the treacherous waters of the island, confronting the dark forces that threaten to engulf them. So, immerse yourself in the hauntingly beautiful landscapes of Ofu, as the island's secrets are revealed, and the line between reality and the supernatural blurs. Prepare to be captivated by the evocative prose, the intricate plot, and the unforgettable characters that inhabit this captivating mystery, as John Enright takes you on a journey that will leave you breathless and longing for more.

Dimension: 203 x 133 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781504078993