Balinese Shadow

A holiday in paradise.A murder wrapped in ancient ritual.A forgery worth killing for.A standalone thriller that can be read separately from any oither book in the series Leroy Cunningworth—former barrister, art restorer, and reluctant detective—is on a long-overdue holiday in Bali. He seeks solace in the island's vibrant culture and tranquil beauty, hoping to quiet his analytical mind and restore his spirit.But tranquility shatters when the beloved manager of his luxurious hotel is found murdered. The weapon: a sacred Balinese kris, plunged into his heart. The scene: chillingly peaceful, with no sign of a struggle.Asked to consult by the insightful Inspector Agung, Leroy's unique skills are soon drawn into a labyrinthine investigation. Suspects abound: a volatile traditionalist chef fighting for cultural soul, a resentful former employee with a grudge, and an inscrutable, wealthy Chinese investor with a portfolio of secrets.As Leroy digs deeper, guided by his art restorer's eye for authenticity, he uncovers a world of exquisite forgeries—paintings and artefacts crafted to fuel a vast money-laundering scheme. Pak Wayan, a man of unimpeachable integrity, had discovered this false foundation and was ready to expose it.Teaming up with his loyal friends back on Phillip Island—the gruff ex-cop Jack, forensic-minded Sheila, and tech genius Homer—Leroy follows a trail of digital ghosts and artistic lies from serene temples to opulent villas. The hunt becomes a race against time to unmask a killer before they strike again and to expose the powerful, shadowy network willing to protect its beautiful, deadly illusions at any cost.