I, Walter

The Eternity Series #1

by Mike Hartner

Walter Crofter was born into Elizabethan England. In a country and a time where favor and politics were both deadly, can an honest boy stay true to himself? Especially given his family background?

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fiction, Historical Romance, Historical, Romance, Adventure

Audiobook

First published April 4, 2013

About the author

Mike Hartner was born in Miami in 1965. He’s traveled much of the continental United States. He has several years post secondary education, and experience teaching and tutoring young adults. Hartner has owned and run a computer firm for more than twenty-five years. He now lives in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, with his wife and child. They share the neighborhood and their son with his maternal grandparents.

Reviews

[Charity Langley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVED THIS BOOK!

I've recommended this book to so many friends, and am often asked what other book is it like? This has been such a difficult question to answer, but the best answer I've come up with is a little Angela's Ashes and a lot of The Count of Monte Cristo , but even this description doesn't do this book much justice.

With so many cookie-cutter romances out there, this was truly a breath of fresh air. With 'saylors', pirates, Kings, Queens and swordfights, what's not to love?

Hartner is an excellent storyteller. With each page you truly feel as though you are right beside Walter Crofter through each of his trials and tribulations. This book truly is New York Best-seller material!

[Camie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Walter Crofter is nearing his death as he chronicles his exciting life in the 1700's . A well told historical fiction with pirates , battles, fortunes to be made , kings, and of course a beautiful woman , who makes surviving all of these things worth it. 4 stars

[Dianne · Rating 5 out of 5]

As an old man nears his death, his need to tell the story of his life, the things he did and most importantly to him, WHY he did these things, is great. I, Walter by Mike Hartner is a beautiful journey through one man’s life and the lives of those he touched. As he struggles to put his story to paper, Walter Crofter attempts to “come clean,” revealing long-held secrets, and purge the guilt he feels in his heart. An Englishman by birth, Walter has lived a full and honorable life spanning 67 years from the late 16th century to the mid 17th century, a time when great ships roamed the seas from port to port. From his humble beginnings to his brilliant business sense, Walter has an amazing story to tell! The young boy who went to sea became an honored seaman, found his greatest love, worked to prove himself worthy of her, met royality, fought pirates, lived through the loss of a child at the hands of one of his greatest foes and was forced to face the hatred of his own brother. Through it all, Walter will fascinate you with his “larger-than-life” adventures, the people he met on his journeys and the life lessons he learned. From his greatest moments to his bleakest hour, Walter leaves nothing unsaid, no emotion is spared!

Mike Hartner can tell a story! Walter was a living, breathing man! With a brilliant beginning and a cast of characters full of personality and charm, he built a world full of sights and scents and sounds that took me back in time to the decks of the great sailing ships of the era. If swords were clanging, I heard it, if a blade just missed someone’s head, I felt the air move and I tensed up! The rolling of the seas? Felt it! The salt spray? Felt it! And the ending? Absolutely amazing! Mr. Hartner’s writing was THAT GOOD! In a few words: You MUST read this!

I need to thank Mike Hartner for allowing me the opportunity to read this incredible historical work!

Publication Date: April 4, 2013
Publisher: Eternity4Popsicle
ISBN: 0973356154
Number of Pages: 225
Genre: Historical Fiction
My Rating: 5 Well-earned Stars
Available at: Amazon

For more reviews check out Tome Tender's Book Blog or find us on Facebook.

[Lis Carey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Audible, June 2013

We meet Walter Crofter as an old man, 67, ill and possibly dying of malaria, determined to write down the story of his life, both what he did, and most importantly, why. He has secrets never shared, and wants his wife and children to understand.

Walter Crofter is the son of a cloth merchant in Elizabethan England, and his father's lack of business skill does not make life easy. His old patron, Sir Walter Scott is out of favor, his elder son Gerald has embarked on a life of crime, and the cloth merchant has little to offer his younger son but hard work with few prospects. Walter loves his parents, but he wants his work to count for something.

So he sets out, and, almost by chance, signs on to a royal merchant ship. The second in command, Bart, takes Walter under his wing and teaches him the skills of a sailor, and Walter over the next few years rises through the ranks.

He's also learning the skills of a merchant trader, and proves both lucky and smart. The luck is important, because life at sea in late Elizabethan and early Jacobean times is very, very dangerous. They fight the French and assorted pirates, and have many adventures, while Walter grows from boy to man.

I will say right now that, for an historical novel, the history of Spain in the late 16th and early 17th century, as related in this book, is absolute nonsense. I strongly recommend ignoring that, and just sit back and enjoy the story. Walter is an utterly engaging character, fallible, but loyal and decent, and it's his fundamental decency as much as his brains and his hard work that see him through the danger and challenges he faces. Because he is decent, loyal, and honorable, he attracts people like himself.

What is real in this picture of the times is the violence, the danger, the risk of disease at a time when medicine was at best primitive. This wasn't a time when the weak survived--and Walter Crofter is a very well-drawn example of moral decency as an essential part of strength, rather than a source of weakness.

Recommended.

I received a free copy of the audiobook from the author.

[Melissa (thereaderandthechef) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I, Walter is a lovely book. I've always enjoyed historical fiction and I'm glad this book gave me what I was looking for--strong characters, adventure and a clean read. It's classified as a YA, but it felt more like a person's memoir even though it's fiction. Walter's life was amazing and inspiring, I'm happy I stuck with it to the very end.

A made a real friend with Walter as I joined him on his wild adventures at sea. It was fun, it was exciting, and at times heart-breaking. He sure goes through everything and I loved how he stayed true to himself, not changing because of the wealth he was gaining or the fame. He even grew into a better person and that's saying something because he was quite honorable right from the start.

I liked his loyalty, his bravery and smart thinking. I liked how he fell in love with only one person in his entire life and was forever faithful. He worked so hard to be worthy of Maria's and Don Castebello's affection that he didn't even realize he didn't have to prove his worthiness. Everyone knew that, but he was just so stubborn about it.

I, Walter was the first audiobook I had the pleasure of listening to and although we didn't hit off like we were supposed to (all the blame to me, I found out I'm not a good audiobook listener) it was really good. Mike Hartner's voice was very soothing and I swear at times I forgot I was listening to his voice, and instead thought I was listening to Walter. He transported me into his story like magic and that was simply amazing.

*Received the audiobook for free in exchange for an honest review. This was also posted at The Reader and the Chef.*

[Lisa (Bookworm Lisa) · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book I, Walter begins as Walter is reminiscing of his life. He is writing his memoir, trying to relate the truth of his life as he remembers it. He has moments that he is not proud of, and wants to have everything out in the open. He has malaria, and wants to clear his conscience.

This book is fascinating in the scope and adventures that are portrayed. It begins in England. Walter runs away from home as a young teen and is taken into the English Navy in the 1500's. His adventures and quick intellect make an interesting story. He falls in love on the high seas and ends up in Spain. His adventures have him come face to face with Kings and pirates. Throughout everything and the trials he endures, he remains a man of integrity and honor.

This book is a great addition to the historical fiction genre. There is some swearing, innuendo, and violence.

[Adrian · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed I, Walter, except for the spelling which was a distraction. I would have given this story a 5-start had it not been for the lack of editing and proofing prior to publishing as a Kindle title.
That being said, I really enjoyed the fact that this was a plain decent read where you encountered some adventure, people with values and beliefs, characters who were very human, and a well-spoken message that the good guy does prevail over evil.
I liked the suspense sprinkled throughout the love story between Walter and Maria. Again, an overall enjoyable read!

[Selah Tay-Song · Rating 5 out of 5]

I, Walter is a wonderful story. Hartner’s descriptions of England and Spain and life on the sea in the 16th century are rich enough to make me feel like I was there. The time period was thoroughly researched but more importantly, Hartner puts us there with great details. The swashbuckling action scenes were vivid and had me biting my nails with concern for Walter. I, Walter was a fun and easy read, with plenty of suspense to keep me turning the pages.

[Kate Tilton · Rating 4 out of 5]

I listened to I, Walter narrated by the author and I have to say I really love the high sea adventure part of I, Walter.

The full review can be found at http://katetilton.com/introducing-k8a...

[Jeff Garman · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very pleasant read

It's always such a pleasure to find a book where you just want to keep turning the pages. I'm looking forward to my next Mike Hartner novel.

[Lawrence Verigin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Walter had a full life. It had adventure, intrigue, success, failure, pain and in the end triumph. It was all for Maria, the love of his life.
I enjoyed the book, however it would have been even better if the author spent some time in the key moments slowing down and exploring about what happened in more detail and how Walter felt.
I look forward to reading more of the series.

[Samantha Strong · Rating 3 out of 5]

Note: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

I, Walter is an excellent example of a book that has been well-researched, thoroughly plotted, and has voice yet doesn’t strike my fancy. To use a refrain I’ve used before, it was not written for me.

The book chronicles the life of a young boy who comes from a poverty-striken background, but through hard work and a humble demeanor, rises through the ranks of 1500′s England to nobility. Walter is writing his story at the end of his life, while his wife supportively looks over his shoulder and tempers his sometimes-too-hard-on-himself ruminations with her own perspective.

One of the reasons that this book caught my eyes was its strong voice in the opening chapter. I liked Walter and wanted to hear about his life. The voice continues throughout, as Walter examines his life. Both the good and bad aspects are examined, the things he worked hard for, and the mistakes that he made.

My biggest frustration with this book is its format is what I call “the Forrest Gump phenomenon,” a term I just coined but something I’ve seen in other books. For those who aren’t familiar with Forrest Gump (Lord, help me, I’m not that old, am I?), it was a 90′s movie that followed the life of a mentally handicapped man in the 60′s and 70′s as he overcomes obstacles and makes an impression on important historical events. Perpetually optimistic (blech), Forrest Gump nestled himself into the hearts of many movie-goers and won all kinds of awards.

Walter, while not mentally handicapped, is perpetually optimistic and leads a charmed life. The deviation from Forrest Gump is that everything turns up roses for Walter. He meets and falls in love with his future wife in only a few days, and nothing stands in the way of their marriage. Money seems to flow from everywhere into his pockets. His rise through the ranks of sailors in the British navy is quick and painless. Everybody loves him; he’s humble and kind.

Like I said, this isn’t for me. I like flawed protagonists, people making lesser-of-two-evils choices. I’d also call Walter “lawful good,” although that’s not precisely right. But he reminds me too much of Superman and his attitude, which has always grated on me.

If you’re tired of dark books and want something light with a fairy tale ending, this is the book for you. I enjoy dark books more often than not, so I found myself skimming, wishing more would happen to Walter, that his struggles would be deeper, harsher, grittier. I caught a few typos and copy editing issues, but overall, it didn’t detract from the book. A lot of good reviews have been posted on Goodreads and Amazon, so I realize I’m just an old grump. Check it out if this is the kind of thing you like.

Also posted on my blog, Magic & Mayhem Book Reviews.

[Gayle Pace · Rating 5 out of 5]

REVIEW-

I, WALTER takes you on his fabulous journey on the high seas and ports of the Elizabethian era. A young boy figures out that he must change things if he wants to live his own life, not like the one he was born into. The book is narrated by Walter Crofter, 67 years of age, who has been stricken with malaria. This was during the sixteenth century in England.

And so the story begins. He tells how he and other boys who didn't have social standing went to work as soon as they could to earn money for their family and to find food. Walter tries to help his family, but he realizes that he will go down the same road as his father if he doesn't change things. He thought his father to be lazy. I felt for Walter because he felt that he had been born into the wrong family. Sometimes I think a lot of us feel that way. He has to make an important decision. This must have been hard for a young boy to have to decide to leave his family. So young and yet so aged. His family is living in London in squalor. He decides he must leave, just as his older brother had done. He joins the Royal Merchant Marines in Bristol. It was then that his life began a change. He learns about the stars and the Davis Quadrant. I loved the part about the crusty old salts teaching the boy skills to survive at sea. There were always pirates raiding ships . The encounters with the pirates is narrated so you would feel like gathering your sword and fighting right along. I could feel the winds whipping the salty sea water on board as the pirates tried to steal the booty.When Walter is on dry land he is being followed by a mysterious man. Maybe the danger didn't lie in the man but in the love he feels for the unreachable, but lovable Marie..The tales that Walter told of journeys to different lands and his experiences of trading merchandise, such as sugar, tobacco, special spices and wines. I could almost smell the odors of the markets. Walter is changing, but is he changing into the man he wishes to be?The author tells of the other side of the page. The trials and suffering as Walter matures. This book does not lack in imagination or action. Mr. Hartner wrote vividly. I almost could feel that I was a bystander during some of the rescues, lies, romance, and adventures. The book was most enjoyable and I'm looking forward to the next book in the series. It brought an occasional misty eye and then I would smile. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone. An interesting adventure into Walter Crofter's life.

I would give this book 5 STARS.

I received a complimentary copy of I, WALTER from the author Mike Hartner for this unbiased review.

[Pam · Rating 3 out of 5]

Walter is living in tough times with his family in Elizabethan England. His father thinks things will get better, his parents are constantly at odds with each other about money, and his older brother has left home and is nowhere to be found. Walter decides he’s had enough of this life, and sneaks off to live on his own. He manages to survive by himself, and eventually finds his way onto the ship of the royal navy as a member of the crew. On one of his first trips he finds a kidnapped girl, Maria, on a defeated pirate vessel. He brings her aboard the navy’s ship to safety, and so starts their relationship. Walter continues to rise in ranks in the navy while trying to earn Maria’s fathers approval for marriage by making money and being successful. Walter meets with fortune, loss, and a lot of adventure along the way to win Maria’s hand.

Walter, to me, is the epitome of the perfect person. He is almost too good and rich in luck. Maybe this is because of his poor upbringing, but sometimes in the book I was just like, really? He succeeded again? I guess he just had good instincts and business sense. Another thing that bothered me was how he just up and left his parents one day without a word. I think this bothered me so much because I am a parent, so I would be heartbroken if that happened to me. But times were definitely different back then, and Walter did go back to his parents and make amends. Maybe that was supposed to be the one flaw in his otherwise perfect character.

I also felt that maybe this book was categorized wrong. It’s supposed to be a historical romance, but I felt like it was definitely more of an action adventure book. That’s not a bad thing, just something that I noticed. Walter and Maria were definitely in love, but I felt like it was missing that special spark and feel of a romance novel. The adventure part of the book was much better than the romance, in my opinion.

Now that the negatives were addressed, it honestly was a good book. I bet you weren’t expecting that after all those remarks, but it really is a good story. When I started the book I was planning to go to bed early, but figured I’d start I, Walter and read a few chapters first. All of a sudden it was 1:30 in the morning! The story obviously held my attention, and I really enjoyed Bart, who is a secondary character, the second in command on the ship.

If you’re looking for an adventure on the high sea, pick up I, Walter for a quick, fun, read. I can easily see this book turn into a movie one day.



My Rating: 3 1/2 out of 5 stars



~Pam

*****I received this book free from the author in exchange for an honest review.*****

[Just a person]

I don't usually read historical fiction but a colleague highly recommended this book so I decided to give it a try.
I liked Walter's sense of humor and voice. The story starts when he is elderly and writing out his story, and then you quickly get to the thick of it. I connected with him because I understood the feelings of being mismatched from family, and that is a universal theme. Not only did I used to feel that, and want to fit in with other families, I thought that I had legitimately been switched at birth and my best friend was my sister. I know, I know. Teenage brains, right?
His family struggled, and he had to move around and watch his parents fight and that it also something that I dealt with when I was younger. Of course it was different circumstances, but some themes are universal.
A lot of the cultural subtleties were lost on me, so while I am sure it was well researched, I can't really comment on that aspect like some reviewers do and readers want to know about.
It was really interesting how he came to be a part of the navy, and how fate steered things in his life, and that is another universal theme I enjoyed that each little thing and decision effects so much then and on down the line.
The writing is lyrical at times, and I loved the vivid descriptions like of the sea and of the skies when he first got on the ship.
One of the aspects that I didn't enjoy is when I got pulled out of the story when the elderly Walter inserts commentary instead of just writing like he was a teen again. But I understand the aesthetic value that can bring and the crossover appeal as well.
The love story was great and even though I knew the ending because of the beginning the journey for Walter and Maria to get where they were was enthralling. I loved it when they didn't even know each other's languages but used hand gestures to communicate, and the time they spent together, the bond that drew them together.
Walter led me on quite the adventure, fighting pirates, being aboard the ship and proving his worth to Maria. There is also a darker side, him putting secrets out there and working out guilt over some of the actions. It was so easy to pull for Walter and be so into what he was up to and his life and those of the ones surrounding him.

[Natalie · Rating 5 out of 5]

We start the book by learning that Walter Crofter is writing this for us. He is a 67 year old man and has Malaria. Walter needs to get this all out on paper before it is his time.

Walter Crofter was born in Elizabethan England. Things aren't so easy at home for Walter and his family. They are very poverty stricken and Walter makes up his mind one day to leave. His older brother Gerald has left already. As the book progresses you will see what comes of Gerald.

Once Walter leaves home at the young age of 12, he finds himself joining the Royal Merchant Marines as a sailor. Here he meets Bart and they become very close. Bart teaches Walter all he needs to know and Walter grows from a young boy to a man with many accomplished rankings.

Along the way Walter falls in love with a Spanish Senorita named Maria. I loved this beautiful love story between the two of them. It is genuinely BEAUTIFUL. I love a story where we get the complete feel of this blossoming love they have for one another without the obvious detail. It is amazing how much the subtle words really reach the very core of your soul.

First thing that comes to mind? WOW! Second thing is I was so pleasantly surprised by this book. You are most likely wondering why? I will tell you. I am the kind of woman that sticks with her conventional kind of reading. You know according to the norm for me and many others would be Romance. With this being a Historical Fiction and not up my alley, I was worried.

I have to say... there was no need for worry. I was so engaged and could hardly put it down. Walter is one of the best men I have ever had the pleasure of reading about. His heart is as BIG as the deep ocean he has sailed upon. His generosity and bravery had me at hello. I have to say, I now have a new book boyfriend named, Walter.

Yes, it is okay to say he is from a Historical Fiction Novel.;)

I am very much so looking forward to book two. I know that whatever Mr. Hartner has in store for us will be just as equally intriguing and exciting!!

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Walter lived life with passion and adventure.
As I sit here ready to tell you all my thoughts reading “I, Walter”, I think “Wow” what a big undertaking this is. However, the most important thing to remember is that because of Mike Hartner, “I, Walter” has been a great privilege to read. Rarely do you find an author who can display such compassion that as you read you become the characters; you live the moment, you feel what they feel; but then you realize you are floating above the characters…watching their story come to life before your eyes!

Here is the story of a boy coming from nothing; not knowing where he was going or where he would end up, but willing to see what life brings and take on the challenges; weighing out the right and wrong choices for each task so he can make his decision for the right. This is done throughout a life, his life, nobly and without hesitation. Yet, each of his challenges seems to become greater as he matures despite his best effort to eliminate them. Toward the end we learn all things have a reason for happening…I can’t give any more than that or I would tell you the end.

Sooooo he decides to pen the story of his life…And, Oh what a story!

There is excitement with sword fights, piracy, sailing on the high seas, unrequited love. All of the things a good book will give you.
This book is the first of the series and is a MUST READ!!!

[Tammy Hall · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story begins being narrated By Walter Crofter a 67 year old who had Malaria in 16th century England. The narration is beautifully done it will have you laughing and maybe even a tear or will be shed.
I felt as though I was walking the streets and living in this story. Every possible sense that my body has was in high definition while reading I, Walter. From the cobblestone streets to the salty sea air every detail was one magical journey through the portal of another time and place making you feel as though you never want to leave. This story literally comes to life on the pages and with each turn of the page you are drawn in deeper making your experience more life like.
Mike Hartner does an amazingly wonderful job in creating a beautifully creative written story that will most definitely wanting more. As I clutch the book to my chest felling as though I have been transported through a magnificent journey I desperately hope there is more to come from this series that will move me as much as I, Walter has!

[Nichole · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was enthralled with this story of bravery from beginning to end!

I, Walter is a magnificent historical adventure novel, set in the 17th century. We are introduced to the main character, Walter, who is close to death and wanting to tell his life story. We learn of his impoverished childhood where he started working as a young boy to help provide for his family. However, his family soon falls apart. His older brother leaves and his father grows complacent. Walter decides he must change his fate. Walter's life turns out to be steeped in adventure and action. He meets pirates, royalty, and a beautiful young girl.

Adventure, romance, history; this book has it all. Hartner does a superb job of weaving all of it into a fantastic adventure that leaves you on the edge of your seat. I am quite pleased that this is just the first book in the series.

I was graciously given a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

[Katie Duhamel · Rating 4 out of 5]

What did you think about the secondary characters in the story? There was more than one secondary character at different stages in Walter's life. These secondary characters do not push the main character aside or make the story more difficult to follow.

Is the story plot or character driven? Definitely plot driven. The characters are in place to ensure a smooth transition from scene to scene. Mike Hartner makes it a point to deliver a plot that is thrilling, touching and imaginative. You must read this book, you won't be disappointed.

How did the main character feel during the book? I want to say sad but I also think Walter was relieved. As he narrates his story, he is very ill. He is becoming older. Sharing his story is one way of relieving himself of the extra baggage.

Disclosure - As a Quality Reads Book Club member, I received a free copy of this book from the author via Orangeberry Book Tours in exchange for my honest review.

[Chrissy (The Every Free Chance Reader) · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

Did I enjoy this book: I liked I, Walter, but I honestly didn’t fall in love. Walter is a good solid character, and I enjoyed the love story with Maria. It was sweet and made me go “awww” a few times, but truly the story fell a little flat for me. There were moments I wanted to be on the high seas with Walter and his crew–the problem was the flashbacks got in the way. They would pull me out of the story of young Walter just so Maria could help old Walter reflect. By the time I got back to the young Walter story I had to take another few pages to get back into the book. This process made it harder for me to finish the book even though I loved the characters.

Would I recommend it: I think there’s a 50/50 chance I’d recommend this one.

As reviewed by Gina at Every Free Chance Books.

Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

http://everyfreechance.com/2015/02/gi...

[L.A. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I, Walter by Mike Hartner is a highly entertaining story. I finished it in three sittings, each time anxious to get back to it. The story takes place in the early to mid 1600's and spans the globe. If you love a poor to riches story, and a few pirates, this is the book for you. The story opens as the main character, Walter Crofter, 67-years-old, is on his death bed and penning his life story. I loved this premise.

He begins his story with his childhood, humble beginnings. The character is endearing and likeable. You can't help but cheer and root for him during all his heartaches and triumphs. I loved all of his adventures and learning how he met the love of his life. By the end of the book you are fully invested in his family and friends. I really loved this book and would highly recommend it.

[My Book Addiction and More MBA · Rating 4 out of 5]

I, Walter is an exciting story set in the early 1600′s. Walter is telling his life story, from his birth and upbringing-by a father who never could sell much and waited for Sir Walter Raleigh to be back in favor, and a mother who nagged and cajoled him. Walter’s older brother ran away from home and now is a wanted criminal. Walter left home at 12 years of age and ended up on a large ship with many masts, were he became a member of The Royal Marine Merchant Navy.

I became swept away with Walter on his life travels, rising in rank, fighting pirates, falling in love, commanding his on ship, and having a family! It was a smooth and well paced story line that pulled you in. I felt all the action, pain and sadness that Walter experienced. Well written! Well done!

Rating 4

Heat rating: mild

Reviewed by: GlendaL

Courtesy of My Book Addiction and More

[Mareena · Rating 5 out of 5]

Walter Crofter was born into a family of London shopkeepers in 1588. He never truly felt like he belonged within his own family - so by age eleven, Walter had run away and somehow found his way on to a British ship. For the next eight years, Walter sailed around the world and rose quickly through the ranks of the Merchant Navy.

Now at the age of 67, Walter looks back over a life lived during a period of turmoil - where politics and royal favor could turn deadly, shifting at a whim. With a family background such as his, can an honest boy stay true to himself and his principles?

I have to say that I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book! It was such an engaging plot, and the characters fairly jumped off the page at me. I give this book an A+! and am eagerly awaiting the next book in the series, which will focus on the life of James Crofter, Walter's son.

[Lucas · Rating 5 out of 5]

The more I read the words of Walter, the more I felt like I was standing next to him. Even though I knew Walter was telling the story, I found myself entranced with every trip he took on a boat, every battle he had with pirates, and every other moment that he wrote about. Even though the story centers around Walter, the other characters: Maria, Bart, Marek, Don Castabel, and even Gerald, became as real as any other character that I have ever read about. Mike Hartner created magic with his words as I was transported from today back to the late 1500's-early 1600's. I can only hope that another book can pick up where this one ended so I can continue to read about Walter's heirs.

[Barbara · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. Told by the man sick with Malaria and 67 years old. This was exciting with his life on the sea, swashbuckling adventures, intrigue and a beautiful young Spanish girl that stole his heart and became the love of his life. Though his story starts out as a young man, about the age of 15, he has a survival's ability but also a true and honest nature, a character much admired and respected in this age of pirates and questionable trustworthiness. What a lovely story, a real "Cinderella" type story - so refreshing in today's world.

[Kristine Hall · Rating 4 out of 5]

A dying Walter Crofter feels compelled to tell his story, which is a sweeping tale of rags to riches that takes listeners across oceans and continents in the late 16th/early 17th century. Listeners, be prepared that the audiobook lacks the polish of professionally narrated books, so it's much like having a family member reading to you -- stumbles, mumbles, and all. Full review on my blog at http://kristinehallways.blogspot.com/...

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sailing the open sea! Learning everything there is to learn about a ship. Earning promotions. Falling in love. This is a new to me author. And I really enjoyed this story. Can't wait to start the next story in the series!

[Patricia · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Walter, as a old man sits down to write his memories , he takes us on an adventure of a young man who wants to break away from his working class parents . He sneaks off and joins the Merchant Marines . Where his adventure begins and his destiny . He has pirates to fight off on a daily basis . Trade routes to get established and lots of lives to change . But when he meets Maria his life changes again. He brings her home after she was kidnapped by pirates . He is smitten and works to deem himself worthy of her love . Which he works hard for years to finally claim his love . He goes through so many adventures and trials through out his life . Some of the great and some of them that will break your heart .
The characters are very well written and complex. Walter is a complex guy and when he sits down and writes his memories . We see a young boy trying to make his way in the world . We watch him grow from a child to a man with great morals and he has a great sense of right and wrong . His best friend Bart started out as his commander but became his friend and confidante. He is actually a real hoot to read . You want him to be gruff and growly but he makes you laugh through out the book . Maria is sweet and kind and actually tough as nails . We get to see her grow up and fall in love with Walter . She is his rock when he needs it . You will fall in love with these guys . Trust me you will want to hug each and everyone of them
This is my first book by this author and man I must say I truly enjoyed reading . The author takes us on an adventure that will have you turning pages all night long . You can almost hear the wind in the sails and the clanging of the swords . I really enjoyed the story and honestly felt like I was transported back to the 1700's . I Walter is that book for those who love historical books that has swash buckling characters . romance and some intrigue . With lovable characters and a great back drop . This is the story for you . So if you want a book that will keep you up all night reading this is the book for you .

[Darlene · Rating 4 out of 5]

An intriguing chronicle of the life told by Walter Crofton as he spends his last days with his quill and paper to write this epic tale. His beloved Maria encourages him along the way to present the good, the bad and the ugly even it brings up memories that Walter would love to keep hidden. From Walter's humble beginnings to his life on the high seas to his skill as a tradesman, his recounting is captivating as the reader is transported to the 16th century. A quick, absorbing read that I would recommend particularly to boys of all ages.