Decker's Dilemma (Subic Bay Mystery)

Any old Subic Bay hand will enjoy this book. Lots of memories.

This book had me intrigued from the beginning. From the character development to the descriptions of Olongapo and Subic Naval base, I felt like I was right there with Decker and Hack trying to solve the mystery. A very enjoyable read.

Start to finish is was an awesome read and accurate. I was stationed in Subic Bay on the USS Sterett CG-31 and the book brought back many memories from the Marcos era. Fine job by the author. I'm looking forward to his next book.

An excellent start for Jack Ambraw (Eric Ward) in the first installment of his Subic Bay Mystery series. The cast of characters includes Elliott Decker, an inquisitive Navy recruit who uses his wits and Book of Dates to solve a shipmate's murder tied to the illegal sale of ship parts to rouge nations; side-kick Hack; girlfriend Vega; and taxi-driver Rusty. The author's familiarity with Subic Bay (Philippines) and filipino culture provides a genuine scenario for the plot, complete with San Miguel beer, pancit noodles and lumpia, as well as favorite eateries, bars and sailor hang-outs of the 1980s. Looking forward to the second thriller in the series, Yamashita's Gold.

Interesting characters, great atmosphere. A fun page turner. Will keep an eye out for the next book to see what trouble Decker and his friends get to.