The Walker on the Cape

I could almost taste the salt in the air and the smell of the bays. This tale is not burdened by wordiness, but sets the scenes perfectly. Bravo for a NFLD setting.

I am one of those readers who are drawn more into an author’s writing style than the actual story line, and on both scores this book delighted me. Mike Martin’s writing has a natural flow to it with a touch of light humor I found very attractive.Set in Newfoundland, it starts straight away with a nice touch, introducing us to Elias Martin who looks like he will feature as a main character in the book, only to be suddenly found dead while on one of his usual walks along the Cape.Sergeant Winston Windflower is called in to investigate the case, and I found him to be wonderful character. The author Martin provides glimpses into Windflower’s native past and customs (which I hope will be explored further in the series), but it is his calm and collective nature and succinct dialog I enjoyed so much. Like many detective novels, its great to also have a likeable investigative duo on the case, and in the young and energetic Constable Tizzard who partners with Windflower we have exactly that.The characters in the story are also well developed with great pieces of dialog, including Shiela, the owner of the local cafe whose dialog discussions with Windflower work so well, and where a warm relationship develops.I don’t consider it fair to give a revealing summary of the plot because that is not the core strength of this novel.It’s enough to say that Windflower and Tizzard have to work their way through a number of suspects, as they slowly begin to fit all the pieces together of what is really going on regarding this murder case. Harvey Brenton, Marge Brenton, Roger Buffet and Ginger Grandy’s parents are all potential suspects, and each is portrayed by Martin perfectly well through the discussions they share with Windflower.In summary, I enjoyed this read very much, having downloaded the audio version first and then the ebook. In fact, I strongly recommend the audio version, with excellent narration from Frank Kearney which gives it an added element.For those who like quality mysteries with great dialog and good characters, this is a must.I can well envision this booming a TV series and look forward to listening and reading others in the series.Touche, Mr. Martin - this one was a piece of magic.

I really enjoyed this book. The setting makes it different to all the European mystery thrillers. I did find the references to cooking recipes a little irritating, but that is just my reaction. I have now bought the rest of this series (except for no. 2 which I can't find except on kindle which is not for me.)

Well laid out plot and professional police work. Also interesting characters; and I especially enjoyed the atmosphere of the Canadian location and its colloquialism.

Really enjoyed seeing Newfoundland through the eyes of Sergeant Winston Windflower of the Grand Bank RCMP. Mr. Martin really captures the essence of a coastal small town. Looking forward to the rest of the series.