I don't remember any bit about his mum being disapproving in his work choices that would require lies around working in a brothel . Misleading title.

A few of these stories I've heard before in and around SEA, which is a bit suss.

2.5 stars and 0.5 for the mention of Baron's in Kings Cross. Ended many a night there, good times.

A

A very enjoyable read of what in essence is the escapades of a rigger. Working in the oil industry myself, but never having been unlucky enough to be on a rig, but having heard enough stories about them to ensure I don´t really want to, this is a good book to read. Funny and fast paced, yes the language is crude, but this is a very male dominated, somewhat macho environment, so thats to be expected, it´s a good holiday read. My only complaint would be that he moves from place to place at astonishing speed and I would have liked him to flesh out the places and people a little more.
Recommended to those in the industry and those that are a little interested.

Paul Carter’s “Don’t Tell Mum I Work on the Rigs. She Thinks I’m a Piano Player in a Whorehouse” is a collection of anecdotes from his life as an oil rig worker in some of the world’s most remote and dangerous locations. From near-death experiences to bizarre encounters with wildlife and eccentric colleagues, the potential for thrilling and entertaining storytelling is evident.

However, the execution falls short. Carter’s stories, while undoubtedly filled with drama and danger, are delivered in a disjointed and often crude manner, which detracts from their impact. The pacing is erratic, with some anecdotes dragging on unnecessarily, while others are rushed, leaving little time to build suspense or engage the reader fully. The writing style is conversational but lacks polish, often relying too heavily on shock value rather than crafting a compelling narrative.

What could have been a gripping and insightful glimpse into a world few of us will ever experience instead becomes a series of missed opportunities. The humour, intended to lighten the darker moments, often feels forced, and the stories, though inherently fascinating, lose their potency in the telling. Overall, a disappointing read that struggles to live up to its potential. Two stars.

I got this book for free and didn't know what to expect but admit I enjoyed it. The whole thing was like listening to a drunk guy telling a yarn at the pub. The stories were incongruent and slightly mad but hilarious in a very Aussie blokey way.

For a fun, quick read this book was completely satisfying. Not much as for as literary work goes, but if you just want to hear really entertaining stories that are so crazy they pretty much have to be true, I highly recommend it.