Tales from the Cannibal Isles
...plus, discounted paperback & hardcover bundles!
Dear Adventurers,
This month, I had the incredible opportunity to explore the stunning islands of Fiji. Though Fiji is well-known today for its beautiful beaches and dive-friendly reefs, I discovered that thereās much more to its cultural traditions than I had realised.
š“ Unveiling the History of the Cannibal Islands
Fiji's past is as fascinating as it is dark. Known historically as the "Cannibal Islands," Fiji was once infamous for its cannibalistic practices. While these traditions have long since vanished, the stories and historical remnants provide a unique glimpse into the island's past.
The practice was steeped in ritual, and deeply rooted in spiritual beliefs. Consuming the flesh of oneās enemies was thought to be a path to inheriting their knowledge, and a means of power, control, and revenge. It is said that victims were often tortured and dismembered while they were still alive, and special ceremonial forks were used to eat the flesh during ritualistic feasts.
Cannibalism ended in 1867 with the death of the Methodist missionary Thomas Baker, who was killed and eaten for touching a local chiefās head - a threat and offence in Fijian customs. Today, the soles of Bakerās boots, which were also cooked by the tribe, can be found at the Fiji Museum in Suva.
During my stay, visiting sites like the Naihehe Caves offered a profound connection to the island's history. Known as the "Cannibal Cave," it was a significant location for cannibalistic rituals, and served as a fortress and hiding place for Fijian tribes during times of conflict.
Crawling into the dark depths of the caves while listening to ghost stories, and imagining those who had been eaten at that very place was quite a creepy experience. Luckily for us, the village priest had performed a kava ceremony to ask the spirits for safe passage. Iām pretty sure the kava helped to calm the nerves too š
šµ Experiencing Traditional Kava Ceremonies
Kava, a drink made from the ground root of the kava plant, plays a significant role in Fijian culture. The ceremony is a communal experience that fosters a sense of unity and respect. But what does it taste like, you ask? Hmā¦ somewhat like dirt, or cold Chinese medicine, followed quickly by the very distinct numbing of the tongue, and a sense of relaxation and sleepiness. Many people in the West now take kava tablets to alleviate stress and aid sleep.
Have you ever tried kava? Tell me about your experience!
šš¢ Publishing News: Discounted Print Bundles!
After some technical difficulties and much anticipation, Iām pleased to announce that paperback bundle and hardcover bundle for the Georgia Lee Adventure Series are finally available on my website! š š If youāve always wanted to own all 3 books in print, nowās your chance to purchase the bundle exclusively from www.ahwangauthor.com.
To thank you for your support and patience, Iām running a discount on the bundles for my subscribers. Use the codes below to get your bundles for 25% off!
šGeorgia Lee Adventure Series Paperback Bundle (Books 1-3)
US$57.48US$43.11- use this 25% off coupon code at checkout: 37R6V2JSFJšGeorgia Lee Adventure Series Hardcover Bundle (Books 1-3)
US$85.97US$64.48- use this 25% off coupon code at checkout: 6XHBWACI9V
Of course, you can also get single print copies of each of the books:
šThe Imperial Alchemist Paperback
US$17.50US$13.12 - use this 25% off coupon code at checkout: 8MOQBP0OQBšThe Imperial Alchemist Hardcover
US$25.99US$19.49 - use this 25% off coupon code at checkout: F3S69E7Q41šThe Golden Khan Paperback US$19.99
šThe Golden Khan Hardcover US$29.99
šThe Indus Star Paperback US$19.99
šThe Indus Star Hardcover US$29.99
What Iām Reading:
I read the first book of the Pendergast series, Relic, many years ago, but itās only now that Iāve picked up its sequel, The Reliquary. This thrilling second book plunges us back into the dark, mysterious depths of New York City's underworld. The story follows FBI Agent Pendergast and his allies as they unravel a series of gruesome murders connected to a hidden subterranean society. With its masterful blend of suspense, historical intrigue, and scientific mystery, The Reliquary keeps you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. If you enjoy a good mystery with a touch of the macabre, both Relic and The Reliquary are definitely for you.
What Iām Watching:
If you, like me, are hooked on all-things-about-Taiwan, try Netflix's latest series, The Brothers Sun. Starring the magnificent Michelle Yeo, this is a funny, action-packed drama following the story of a Taiwanese triad who relocates to Los Angeles to protect his mother and brother from a rival crime boss. The series weaves high-stakes martial arts action with poignant Asian family dynamics, offering a fresh take on the crime genre. It is a must-watch for anyone who enjoyed some the themes explored in The Imperial Alchemist.
Over the next few months, Iāll be writing to you about some of the places and themes explored in The Indus Star. If youāve already read the third instalment of the Georgia Lee Adventure Series, Iād love to hear what you think! Please drop me a line and also consider leaving a review on Amazon, Goodreads, or Bookbub. And don't forget to share your thoughts and photos on social media using the hashtag #TheIndusStar. As always, your support means the world to me.
Until next month,
A. H. Wang
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Fiji Islands sound wonderful! We had similar experiences when we went to dive in Papua New Guinea. If you get a chance, dive the freshwater lake full of non-stinging jellyfish. It's truly amazing!