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Sgt. Windflower Mysteries #4
A Twist of Fortune
The small town of Grand Bank in southeast Newfoundland, at the very eastern tip of Canada is in crisis. Their largest employer and a link to the glorious past, the fish plant is closing. Sgt. Winston Windflower’s personal life is also in crisis since his longtime girlfriend, Sheila Hillier is leading a community protest to try and stop the closure. It may be too late for the fish plant, but is it too late for Windflower and Sheila?
If that wasn’t enough, they are being buried in snow and an epidemic of prescription drug abuse that is creating major problems for people and the police who patrol the area. An accidental death on a snow-covered highway leads only to more questions and more problems for Sgt. Windflower and the RCMP to resolve.
A Twist of Fortune is the fourth book in the Sgt. Windflower Mystery Series and it continues the adventures of Sgt. Windflower as he tries to solve crime and experience the joy and the sadness of life in a small Newfoundland community. Follow along as he feels the sometimes bitter taste of an east coast winter and the unique culinary delights of this part of the world. This story is like the weather in Newfoundland. It can twist and turn at any time.
If that wasn’t enough, they are being buried in snow and an epidemic of prescription drug abuse that is creating major problems for people and the police who patrol the area. An accidental death on a snow-covered highway leads only to more questions and more problems for Sgt. Windflower and the RCMP to resolve.
A Twist of Fortune is the fourth book in the Sgt. Windflower Mystery Series and it continues the adventures of Sgt. Windflower as he tries to solve crime and experience the joy and the sadness of life in a small Newfoundland community. Follow along as he feels the sometimes bitter taste of an east coast winter and the unique culinary delights of this part of the world. This story is like the weather in Newfoundland. It can twist and turn at any time.
278 pages, Paperback
First published April 1, 2015
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635 people want to read
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April 20, 2015
A Twist Of Fate is the fourth book in the Sgt. Windflower Mysteries Series)
The friendly, quiet coastal town, Grand Banks, down at the southeast coast of Newfoundland, Canada, is seething with the closure of the fish factory. All the machinery, equipment and freezers are shipped off to bigger factories. The town has to say goodbye to an industry that kept the town floating for hundreds of years.
Sheila Hilliard, the girlfriend of RCMP Sergeant Winston Windflower, who has recovered from her serious injuries from six months ago, is the leader in the protests against the closure of the fishing industry in town. She gets arrested for illegal marches down at the docks, which puts Sgt. Windflower in a difficult position. Her involvement can cost him his job. Tension between the two people arises when Sgt. Windflower let the law takes it cause for Sheila, with him refusing to help her. His sense of justice and fairness won't allow him to step out of line in the name of love and relationships.
It is mid December in Canada. Heavy snow storms are raging through the region, causing anxiety and accidents on the highways. A drainage ditch of ten feet deep is causing serious injuries to drivers who slip off the road and land in it. It isn't long before a person is found dead behind the wheel in the ditch, during one of the coldest nights in the town's history. The deceased is very soon identified as the 35-year-old chemist who moved into the neighboring town several months ago. What looked like an accident turned out to be a murder, after the coroner, Dr. Sanjay, discovers the evidence to prove it. More evidence quickly turns it into a drug-investigation.
The case becomes a challenge for Sgt. Windflower and his team due to the heavy snow falls hampering their investigations; the protest marches; Sheila's decision to run for major; and one of his staff members acting irresponsibly on the job. Uncle Frank disappears again and aunt Mary phones to forecast events according to a mutual dream she shared with Sgt. Windflower. His deceased mother comes running to him screaming in his dreams. A white rabbit appears in his yard in the middle of the snow storm, which is a sign of an immediate a challenge in Sgt. Windflowers personal life, according to uncle Frank and aunt Mary, both dream weavers.
The busy schedule prevents everyone from doing very little more than eating, working, eating, sleeping, eating, investigating, eating, sharing time with friends and eating if the weather permits them to do so. And for some inspiration they make sure there is gallons of coffee consumed to ward of the cold.
The story reads more like a day-to-day, step-by-step, report of life in a close-knit community, where criminal activities are handled as part of the make-up of the people in town. I would compare it with a Maeve Binchy novel with a crime plot thrown in, without the high drama and suspense of the murder mystery genre.
A light read. The story lacked excitement and suspense. There are way too many repetition going on, which dampens the plot. It is a quiet, non-violent, community read and in that sense it is okay. The story is a reminder that good people can do good things, be good friends, and believe in the good life of small communities. Festivities and principles are still important and the Canadian cuisine can still be celebrated.
Hopefully the next book in the series will allow drama and suspense to highlight the plot. However, it was good to be back in town and connect with the hardworking Sgt. Windflower and his positive approach to people and life.
The friendly, quiet coastal town, Grand Banks, down at the southeast coast of Newfoundland, Canada, is seething with the closure of the fish factory. All the machinery, equipment and freezers are shipped off to bigger factories. The town has to say goodbye to an industry that kept the town floating for hundreds of years.
Sheila Hilliard, the girlfriend of RCMP Sergeant Winston Windflower, who has recovered from her serious injuries from six months ago, is the leader in the protests against the closure of the fishing industry in town. She gets arrested for illegal marches down at the docks, which puts Sgt. Windflower in a difficult position. Her involvement can cost him his job. Tension between the two people arises when Sgt. Windflower let the law takes it cause for Sheila, with him refusing to help her. His sense of justice and fairness won't allow him to step out of line in the name of love and relationships.
It is mid December in Canada. Heavy snow storms are raging through the region, causing anxiety and accidents on the highways. A drainage ditch of ten feet deep is causing serious injuries to drivers who slip off the road and land in it. It isn't long before a person is found dead behind the wheel in the ditch, during one of the coldest nights in the town's history. The deceased is very soon identified as the 35-year-old chemist who moved into the neighboring town several months ago. What looked like an accident turned out to be a murder, after the coroner, Dr. Sanjay, discovers the evidence to prove it. More evidence quickly turns it into a drug-investigation.
The case becomes a challenge for Sgt. Windflower and his team due to the heavy snow falls hampering their investigations; the protest marches; Sheila's decision to run for major; and one of his staff members acting irresponsibly on the job. Uncle Frank disappears again and aunt Mary phones to forecast events according to a mutual dream she shared with Sgt. Windflower. His deceased mother comes running to him screaming in his dreams. A white rabbit appears in his yard in the middle of the snow storm, which is a sign of an immediate a challenge in Sgt. Windflowers personal life, according to uncle Frank and aunt Mary, both dream weavers.
The busy schedule prevents everyone from doing very little more than eating, working, eating, sleeping, eating, investigating, eating, sharing time with friends and eating if the weather permits them to do so. And for some inspiration they make sure there is gallons of coffee consumed to ward of the cold.
The story reads more like a day-to-day, step-by-step, report of life in a close-knit community, where criminal activities are handled as part of the make-up of the people in town. I would compare it with a Maeve Binchy novel with a crime plot thrown in, without the high drama and suspense of the murder mystery genre.
A light read. The story lacked excitement and suspense. There are way too many repetition going on, which dampens the plot. It is a quiet, non-violent, community read and in that sense it is okay. The story is a reminder that good people can do good things, be good friends, and believe in the good life of small communities. Festivities and principles are still important and the Canadian cuisine can still be celebrated.
Hopefully the next book in the series will allow drama and suspense to highlight the plot. However, it was good to be back in town and connect with the hardworking Sgt. Windflower and his positive approach to people and life.
September 7, 2024
I always enjoy a visit with Sergeant Winston Windflower and the good folks in Grand Bank, Newfoundland. It's like visiting old friends. There is a lot going on for Windflower and the other police officers in this installment. They have not one, but two dead bodies, one found in the trunk of a car. There appears to be a prescription drug ring at work in the area, the closure of the local fish processing plant has resulted in unrest and protests, a popular local official passes away suddenly, and something strange is going on with the Inspector in nearby Marystown. Along with all of this, a series of winter storms keeps the officers on their toes dealing with accidents, highway closures and power outages. I really appreciated this look at the challenges of winter on the Newfoundland coast, as the weather is almost a character in itself. As always, everything falls into place by the end, and we learn about some Newfoundland culture and cuisine along the way.
So, why only three stars? The story was entertaining as usual, but the editing was the worst I have seen yet in this series. The first two books were a bit amateurish, to be expected with self published books. The third was actually quite well done. This one is dreadful in terms of typos and confusing dialog. The dialog is not separated into different paragraphs for different speakers, and there aren't even always quotation marks. It's very difficult to tell who is speaking. The copy I read is from the library, and about halfway through the book a previous reader started editing it in pencil. I actually really appreciated the marks this anonymous person left, as it made it easier for me to read the dialog. I really hope more effort has been made with the next book.
Oh, and then there were the inconsistencies between this book and the previous book. Why did Constable Evanchuk's first name change from Miriam to Carrie? Did the author think we wouldn't notice? I most definitely did!
So, why only three stars? The story was entertaining as usual, but the editing was the worst I have seen yet in this series. The first two books were a bit amateurish, to be expected with self published books. The third was actually quite well done. This one is dreadful in terms of typos and confusing dialog. The dialog is not separated into different paragraphs for different speakers, and there aren't even always quotation marks. It's very difficult to tell who is speaking. The copy I read is from the library, and about halfway through the book a previous reader started editing it in pencil. I actually really appreciated the marks this anonymous person left, as it made it easier for me to read the dialog. I really hope more effort has been made with the next book.
Oh, and then there were the inconsistencies between this book and the previous book. Why did Constable Evanchuk's first name change from Miriam to Carrie? Did the author think we wouldn't notice? I most definitely did!
October 13, 2020
Part police procedural, part daily problems in law enforcement, part small town life, and more. The accident victim turned out to be a local pharmacist addicted to prescription drugs, but cause of death was poison. And then there was the murdered drug dealer in the trunk. Add in winter weather problems, a respected superior falling off the wagon, the local mayor dying of a coronary and leaving a real void in the community, and protesters at the closed fish plant. Then there are Windflower's own concerns about beloved relatives on the other side of the country, acquiring the original victim's dog, and decisions being made by his longtime girlfriend. The best part of the stories is the feeling of finding new friends in the characters.
June 2, 2015
A Twist of Fortune is a worthwhile read that details the life and work of Sargent Winston Windflower as he tries to unravel the mysterious deaths of two men, combat the ruthless Newfoundland winter, and keep the heart of the woman he loves.
Sgt. Windflower is preparing for a miserable winter storm that threatens his community. While his troopers are closing the highway to keep travelers safe, they discovery of a vehicle accident. The deceased driver, a local pharmacist, appears to be the only fatality until they open the trunk. Now, it's looking a lot less like an accident and a lot more like a homicide, but every lead Sgt. Windflower and his troopers follow only leaves them with more questions.
Meanwhile, Sgt. Windflower has been having odd dreams that he can't quite decipher, his eccentric uncle ends up on his doorstep again, and his relationship with Sheila is strained.
Can Sgt. Windflower get his personal life in order and survive the brutal Newfoundland winter all while managing to solve a crime that is turning out to be bigger than he ever imagined?
Like the other books in the series, A Twist of Fortune's steady pace makes it easy to become lost in the story. I found the book to be intriguing and well-written. Sgt. Windflower is an easily likable character who has exceptional values and expects nothing less from those in his life. A Twist of Fortune is more than a mystery. It's a story of building quality relationships, living with principles, and striving to achieve good. The author intertwines his knowledge of Newfoundland throughout the book giving insight and adding believability. The story flows easily and the author's attention to detail makes A Twist a Fortune an excellent read.
I highly recommend picking up a copy.
Sgt. Windflower is preparing for a miserable winter storm that threatens his community. While his troopers are closing the highway to keep travelers safe, they discovery of a vehicle accident. The deceased driver, a local pharmacist, appears to be the only fatality until they open the trunk. Now, it's looking a lot less like an accident and a lot more like a homicide, but every lead Sgt. Windflower and his troopers follow only leaves them with more questions.
Meanwhile, Sgt. Windflower has been having odd dreams that he can't quite decipher, his eccentric uncle ends up on his doorstep again, and his relationship with Sheila is strained.
Can Sgt. Windflower get his personal life in order and survive the brutal Newfoundland winter all while managing to solve a crime that is turning out to be bigger than he ever imagined?
Like the other books in the series, A Twist of Fortune's steady pace makes it easy to become lost in the story. I found the book to be intriguing and well-written. Sgt. Windflower is an easily likable character who has exceptional values and expects nothing less from those in his life. A Twist of Fortune is more than a mystery. It's a story of building quality relationships, living with principles, and striving to achieve good. The author intertwines his knowledge of Newfoundland throughout the book giving insight and adding believability. The story flows easily and the author's attention to detail makes A Twist a Fortune an excellent read.
I highly recommend picking up a copy.
October 29, 2019
A Twist Of Fortune is a piece of crime fiction set in and around Grand Bank Newfoundland, Canada. Sergeant Winston Windflower is a member of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. This is the fourth book about the sergeant. The book opens with Windflower’s girlfriend, Sheila, being taken away in handcuffs at a community protest about the closure of the local fish plant.
Winter is making itself know in this part of the world and Windflower and his small team must patrol and close the highways as necessary when the snowstorms blow through. During one storm there is car accident, Michael Ridgeway a local pharmacist is killed. After the storm has cleared and the car is recovered a second body is found, that of local outlaw biker Frankie Fallon. Post mortems produce evidence of opiate and narcotics abuse .
Windflower and his team find themselves working with other officers to solve a much wider drug ring. Meanwhile the Mayor has a fatal heart attack and the local community is shaken up once more.
This book is a leisurely stroll through some of Canada’s wild places, where no one can hide from the effects of crime. We get an insight into the communities and people who choose to live away from the bright lights of the cities.
Winter is making itself know in this part of the world and Windflower and his small team must patrol and close the highways as necessary when the snowstorms blow through. During one storm there is car accident, Michael Ridgeway a local pharmacist is killed. After the storm has cleared and the car is recovered a second body is found, that of local outlaw biker Frankie Fallon. Post mortems produce evidence of opiate and narcotics abuse .
Windflower and his team find themselves working with other officers to solve a much wider drug ring. Meanwhile the Mayor has a fatal heart attack and the local community is shaken up once more.
This book is a leisurely stroll through some of Canada’s wild places, where no one can hide from the effects of crime. We get an insight into the communities and people who choose to live away from the bright lights of the cities.
May 19, 2015
Plenty of twists and turns here!
I have delved into this series at book four and was initially concerned that I would not fully appreciate the characters and the backdrop to the plot. I need not have worried. The writing is so well crafted that without repeating large blocks of backstory to bring new readers up to speed I quickly understood and could relate to the professional and personal relationships playing out within this crime fiction novel. The character of Sgt Winston Windflower is likeable, but well respected. His professional relationship with his peers and his personal one with Sheila highlights his strengths and weaknesses wonderfully. The plot is seemingly simple to start with, but quickly develops in complexity as we move from a pharmacist involved in a car crash in snow enveloped Grand Bank to a story involving a body in the trunk of the car and drug dealers. The setting is obviously well known and experienced by the author as the attention to detail means you can sense the impending implications of snow drifts, road closures and extremes of weather impacting on emergency services. This is a captivating read and I would highly recommend it to readers who enjoy the crime fiction genre.
I have delved into this series at book four and was initially concerned that I would not fully appreciate the characters and the backdrop to the plot. I need not have worried. The writing is so well crafted that without repeating large blocks of backstory to bring new readers up to speed I quickly understood and could relate to the professional and personal relationships playing out within this crime fiction novel. The character of Sgt Winston Windflower is likeable, but well respected. His professional relationship with his peers and his personal one with Sheila highlights his strengths and weaknesses wonderfully. The plot is seemingly simple to start with, but quickly develops in complexity as we move from a pharmacist involved in a car crash in snow enveloped Grand Bank to a story involving a body in the trunk of the car and drug dealers. The setting is obviously well known and experienced by the author as the attention to detail means you can sense the impending implications of snow drifts, road closures and extremes of weather impacting on emergency services. This is a captivating read and I would highly recommend it to readers who enjoy the crime fiction genre.
May 14, 2015
Picking up a Sgt Windflower book is like making a date with an old friend. Each of the characters have their own distinctive personalities and each book lets you delve a little more into their lives. I've been playing catch up with the series and am now up to date. I really can't fault it and hope it does make its way to television in the near future as I think it would be very popular.
October 29, 2019
I could hang out with Sgt. Winston Windflower all day and night !! I just LOVE the Sgt. Windflower Mystery series by Mike Martin and look forward to getting lost in these books.
A Twist of Fortune is the fourth book in this captivating series and as soon as you read the FIRST paragraph you will be HOOKED .... especially if you have been reading the books in order. By the time you get to this fourth book, you are a fan of Windflower, his little town and his friends and family but when you begin reading A Twist of Fortune that may all change !! Windflower's girlfriend, Sheila, is arrested !!! In the first paragraph !!! What the heck is Mike Martin thinking !?!?! Okay calm down...you have to breath and keep reading.....
After all, that is just the tip of the iceburg in this strong installment in the series. Yes Sheila is arrested but she does it all for her beloved community.... but on a different note and completely having nothing to do with Sheila an accident during a snowstorm results in a dead driver which is just the beginning of a long list of problems for Windflower and his team.
While they deal with snowstorm after snowstorm, they have a case of 2 dead bodies, drugs, blackmail, lies, cover-ups and more...... and then the town of Grand Bank deals with a horrible loss that will leave the town saddened beyond belief but maybe Sheila will be able to lift up her beloved town and make it stronger !!
Windflower and Sheila make a dynamic duo and I look forward to seeing where Martin takes them and their town. With the two of them working together anything is possible !!!
I love getting lost in these books....by now I feel like a member of the community and I have my own seat at the Mug-Up and even though I don't play chess or drink scotch, I want to when I read these books. Martin GRABS the reader with the first paragraph in this latest installment and you will not want to loosen that grib until you read the very last word !!
A Twist of Fortune is the fourth book in this captivating series and as soon as you read the FIRST paragraph you will be HOOKED .... especially if you have been reading the books in order. By the time you get to this fourth book, you are a fan of Windflower, his little town and his friends and family but when you begin reading A Twist of Fortune that may all change !! Windflower's girlfriend, Sheila, is arrested !!! In the first paragraph !!! What the heck is Mike Martin thinking !?!?! Okay calm down...you have to breath and keep reading.....
After all, that is just the tip of the iceburg in this strong installment in the series. Yes Sheila is arrested but she does it all for her beloved community.... but on a different note and completely having nothing to do with Sheila an accident during a snowstorm results in a dead driver which is just the beginning of a long list of problems for Windflower and his team.
While they deal with snowstorm after snowstorm, they have a case of 2 dead bodies, drugs, blackmail, lies, cover-ups and more...... and then the town of Grand Bank deals with a horrible loss that will leave the town saddened beyond belief but maybe Sheila will be able to lift up her beloved town and make it stronger !!
Windflower and Sheila make a dynamic duo and I look forward to seeing where Martin takes them and their town. With the two of them working together anything is possible !!!
I love getting lost in these books....by now I feel like a member of the community and I have my own seat at the Mug-Up and even though I don't play chess or drink scotch, I want to when I read these books. Martin GRABS the reader with the first paragraph in this latest installment and you will not want to loosen that grib until you read the very last word !!
August 20, 2021
As is so often the case in a small coastal community, the local fish factory is the primary employer in Grand Banks, Newfoundland, and its closing is a major upset for the village. Such an economic downturn has repercussions and the small contingent of Mounties, led by Sgt. Winston Windflower, have much to keep them busy.
Not least in the reactions to the closing are the public protests with Windflower’s longtime girlfriend up front and center. When Sheila is arrested, Windflower finds himself in an awkward position and the choice he makes to stand on the side of law and order doesn’t exactly further their relationship.
Meanwhile, the usual life of a Mountie goes on and a body soon crops up, a body that shows evidence of murder, leading to the ever-present drug world, and that keeps Windflower’s attention but so do the myriad activities of life in a small town. At times, I thought the latter took too much precedence and, while I’m interested in the personal side of the community, I would have liked a little more consideration of the criminal and police aspects. Still, this remains one of my favorite traditional mystery series, largely because of its gentle nature.
As always, Francis G. Kearney does a fine job with the narration, particularly with the accents and inflections I expect to hear in a small Canadian town. All in all, I’m very happy whenever a new audio edition of Mr. Martin’s Sgt. Windflower books becomes available and I’m hoping the next one won’t be too far behind.
Not least in the reactions to the closing are the public protests with Windflower’s longtime girlfriend up front and center. When Sheila is arrested, Windflower finds himself in an awkward position and the choice he makes to stand on the side of law and order doesn’t exactly further their relationship.
Meanwhile, the usual life of a Mountie goes on and a body soon crops up, a body that shows evidence of murder, leading to the ever-present drug world, and that keeps Windflower’s attention but so do the myriad activities of life in a small town. At times, I thought the latter took too much precedence and, while I’m interested in the personal side of the community, I would have liked a little more consideration of the criminal and police aspects. Still, this remains one of my favorite traditional mystery series, largely because of its gentle nature.
As always, Francis G. Kearney does a fine job with the narration, particularly with the accents and inflections I expect to hear in a small Canadian town. All in all, I’m very happy whenever a new audio edition of Mr. Martin’s Sgt. Windflower books becomes available and I’m hoping the next one won’t be too far behind.
September 16, 2021
When the fish plant in Grand Bank is bought by a Nova Scotian company and they decide to close it and ship parts of it to Lunenburg the town rebels and Sergeant Windflower and the RCMP are forced to arrest some local citizens thereby incurring the wrath of the locals. Concurrently a nearby pharmacy appears to be illegally selling drugs on the black market through locally known felons with the possible implication of a junior RCMP member. Windflower’s uncle returns to complicate the Sergeant’s life and his romantic interest may become a politician. I enjoyed this book d3ewpite its unconventional editing and repetitive social situations and recommend it with those caveats.
October 20, 2025
Sgt. Windflower Mysteries #4
A Twist of Fortune: Sgt Windflower
Mike Martin
Francis Kearney, Reader
As his girlfriend Sheila essays political life Winston wends his way through office politics in the RCMP. Plenty of coffees and biscuits along with great meals, blueberry buckle and peanut butter cheesecake. Eddie Tizard offers loyal support as the detachment attempts to keep a lid on crime. Winston’s jeep should arrive next outing but first the detachment has to survive winter blizzards.
A Twist of Fortune: Sgt Windflower
Mike Martin
Francis Kearney, Reader
As his girlfriend Sheila essays political life Winston wends his way through office politics in the RCMP. Plenty of coffees and biscuits along with great meals, blueberry buckle and peanut butter cheesecake. Eddie Tizard offers loyal support as the detachment attempts to keep a lid on crime. Winston’s jeep should arrive next outing but first the detachment has to survive winter blizzards.
July 8, 2022
Another really good Winston Windflower book with just the right mix of police work, Newfoundland life and romance. Mike Martin always imbues his characters with the right amount of humanity. Looking forward to the next one.
December 30, 2023
Editing needed
Sgt Windflower books are great stories, but this digital version had multiple editing problems.
Looking forward to the next book in the series.
Sgt Windflower books are great stories, but this digital version had multiple editing problems.
Looking forward to the next book in the series.
June 6, 2015
The Silent Hero – A review of the novel ‘A Twist of Fortune’
“The trick to being smart is knowing when to play dumb.” - V. Alexander
Author Mike Martin’s novel ‘A Twist of Fortune’ tells the tale of Sergeant Winston Windflower of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. A small fishing community called Grand Bank in Newfoundland, Canada reels under the effects of globalization as their local fishing industry is systematically taken apart. But this tight-knit community is rocked even further by the discovery of a couple of dead bodies in a car during a snow storm. And Sgt. Windflower and his efficient team of police force must not only solve the case but deal with a nasty snow storm threatening to double their workload.
Even though this is the fourth book in the series, the narrative never lets you feel like you’ve jumped midway into the timeline of someone’s life story. It patiently goes about setting the background for the town and its characters and you quickly get accustomed to its pace and setting. Another thing that I personally liked was that all the characters in this novel have proper sounding names and along with their personalities, seem like folks you would meet in the real world. The nitty-gritty of police work, the unglamorous side that often goes unnoticed in fiction is really explored here. Does this make the narrative a little slow? Sure, but it also makes the story that more believable.
There are a lot of minor action points that moves the story forward. The description of the cold & gloomy snowy weather incites the reader that something sinister is going to happen soon and you keep flipping the pages forward in anticipation. There are also definite overtones of social activism within the book and subtle commentary on environmental neglect and destruction of local industries as capitalism spreads unchecked.
Sgt. Windflower is unlike any cop or detective that appears in fictional novels. He isn’t a wild card who goes after criminals like a rampaging bull, he isn’t even a reluctant hero who finally steps up and does something heroic. He is the face, body and soul of countless policemen from all around the world that quietly goes about doing their job, solving crimes and putting bad people behind bars. There’s nothing flashy about him, he’s the quiet hero who loves taking plenty of naps, enjoying a good cup of coffee and the best of exotic cuisine. But he’s also extremely disciplined and gets the job done by working extremely hard at it. Even the secondary characters like Tizzard, Sheila, Evanchuck and MacDonald make an impression with their non-stereotypical portrayal and unique personalities.
The snow clad setting, the leisurely pace of the narrative and a no-nonsense but humane lead makes A Twist of Fortune a mystery thriller with a difference. It’s a book that requires and rewards your patience.
“The trick to being smart is knowing when to play dumb.” - V. Alexander
Author Mike Martin’s novel ‘A Twist of Fortune’ tells the tale of Sergeant Winston Windflower of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. A small fishing community called Grand Bank in Newfoundland, Canada reels under the effects of globalization as their local fishing industry is systematically taken apart. But this tight-knit community is rocked even further by the discovery of a couple of dead bodies in a car during a snow storm. And Sgt. Windflower and his efficient team of police force must not only solve the case but deal with a nasty snow storm threatening to double their workload.
Even though this is the fourth book in the series, the narrative never lets you feel like you’ve jumped midway into the timeline of someone’s life story. It patiently goes about setting the background for the town and its characters and you quickly get accustomed to its pace and setting. Another thing that I personally liked was that all the characters in this novel have proper sounding names and along with their personalities, seem like folks you would meet in the real world. The nitty-gritty of police work, the unglamorous side that often goes unnoticed in fiction is really explored here. Does this make the narrative a little slow? Sure, but it also makes the story that more believable.
There are a lot of minor action points that moves the story forward. The description of the cold & gloomy snowy weather incites the reader that something sinister is going to happen soon and you keep flipping the pages forward in anticipation. There are also definite overtones of social activism within the book and subtle commentary on environmental neglect and destruction of local industries as capitalism spreads unchecked.
Sgt. Windflower is unlike any cop or detective that appears in fictional novels. He isn’t a wild card who goes after criminals like a rampaging bull, he isn’t even a reluctant hero who finally steps up and does something heroic. He is the face, body and soul of countless policemen from all around the world that quietly goes about doing their job, solving crimes and putting bad people behind bars. There’s nothing flashy about him, he’s the quiet hero who loves taking plenty of naps, enjoying a good cup of coffee and the best of exotic cuisine. But he’s also extremely disciplined and gets the job done by working extremely hard at it. Even the secondary characters like Tizzard, Sheila, Evanchuck and MacDonald make an impression with their non-stereotypical portrayal and unique personalities.
The snow clad setting, the leisurely pace of the narrative and a no-nonsense but humane lead makes A Twist of Fortune a mystery thriller with a difference. It’s a book that requires and rewards your patience.
November 27, 2015
At the beginning of A Twist of Fortune, Sergeant Winston Windflower watches in dismay as his girlfriend, Sheila, gets arrested during an illegal protest at the local fish plant. Then a snowstorm hits Grand Bank, Newfoundland, and a pharmacist dies in a car accident on the highway. What seems to be a straightforward investigation turns out to be a lot more when a body is discovered in the trunk of the car.
A Twist of Fortune is the fourth book in the Sgt. Windflower series. The story is interesting and fun to read. Its main character is a likable mountie who doesn’t shy away from his duties and is honest and fair. His girlfriend, Sheila, has a bigger role in this book which is great as she was a little too in the background in the previous novels. Mike Martin’s love of Newfoundland is evident when he writes about its history, its weather, and its fishing industry. The author also gives a glimpse into the aboriginal culture, as Windflower has a Cree heritage. For example, the main character performs smudge rituals in the mornings and is attentive to the significance of dreams. Short chapters give the story a certain rhythm, but I must say that I found it slow going at times. In addition, in the previous installment of the Sgt. Windflower series, Sheila was supposed to go back to school to study nursing, but there’s no mention of this in the new book.
On the whole though, I enjoyed A Twist of Fortune and found that the author had made a lot of progress in his writing since Beneath the Surface. Readers who like a good mystery and descriptions of small town living will certainly appreciate this book.
A Twist of Fortune was sent to me for free in exchange for an honest review.
To read the full review, please go to my blog (Cecile Sune - Book Obsessed).
A Twist of Fortune is the fourth book in the Sgt. Windflower series. The story is interesting and fun to read. Its main character is a likable mountie who doesn’t shy away from his duties and is honest and fair. His girlfriend, Sheila, has a bigger role in this book which is great as she was a little too in the background in the previous novels. Mike Martin’s love of Newfoundland is evident when he writes about its history, its weather, and its fishing industry. The author also gives a glimpse into the aboriginal culture, as Windflower has a Cree heritage. For example, the main character performs smudge rituals in the mornings and is attentive to the significance of dreams. Short chapters give the story a certain rhythm, but I must say that I found it slow going at times. In addition, in the previous installment of the Sgt. Windflower series, Sheila was supposed to go back to school to study nursing, but there’s no mention of this in the new book.
On the whole though, I enjoyed A Twist of Fortune and found that the author had made a lot of progress in his writing since Beneath the Surface. Readers who like a good mystery and descriptions of small town living will certainly appreciate this book.
A Twist of Fortune was sent to me for free in exchange for an honest review.
To read the full review, please go to my blog (Cecile Sune - Book Obsessed).
July 1, 2015
This is the fourth instalment in the series following the exploits of Sgt. Winston Windflower, a member of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police working on the remote island of Newfoundland. The topography and climate of the location of the novel provide a key device within the narrative, allowing for a sense of isolation, a small community feel to policing and enough drifting snow to cover footprints at even the busiest of crime scenes.
A Twist of Fortune tells the story of drug smuggling gangs and multiple homicides, but the book isn't fixated on murder mystery and instead weaves the criminal investigation narrative around those of the decline of the local fishing industry and Windflower's personal life, relationships and his love of the local food and not so local scotch whisky. The story of the decline of a once thriving local industry is universal, one could draw parallels between Newfoundland fishing and UK mining towns, so a lack of local knowledge won't effect your enjoyment of this book...
Read the full review on www.MJMeads.com
A Twist of Fortune tells the story of drug smuggling gangs and multiple homicides, but the book isn't fixated on murder mystery and instead weaves the criminal investigation narrative around those of the decline of the local fishing industry and Windflower's personal life, relationships and his love of the local food and not so local scotch whisky. The story of the decline of a once thriving local industry is universal, one could draw parallels between Newfoundland fishing and UK mining towns, so a lack of local knowledge won't effect your enjoyment of this book...
Read the full review on www.MJMeads.com
June 25, 2015
This is the first book I've read in the Sgt Windflower series. Usually, jumping into a series without reading the previous three books is not recommended, but no problem here. The book stands solidly on its own. A Twist of Fortune is a crime novel that is full of unexpected twists and turns. The characters are well developed and the storyline is believable. I could relate to the characters as there are many similarities between the small town in Newfoundland where Sgt Windflower resides and the small town on the prairies where I grew up. But anyone will enjoy the charm of a small town and the interactions among the residents, which are captured perfectly by the author. Add in an ever deepening mystery, the challenges of a relationship at a crossroads and the difficulties faced by the residents as the snow piles up and you have an enjoyable read. No bullets flying...just a nice 5-star mystery.
April 22, 2016
I had trouble putting down Twist of Fortune by Mike Martin. I enjoy reading about Sgt. Winston Windflower, Sheila, Eddie Tizzard, Dr. Sanjay, the other constables, and contributing characters. I love reading about Newfoundland, the traditional foods (although I am not sure I could eat them with the gusto the characters do!), and the changing life in what was once a major fishing port.
This book is marketed under cozy mysteries, and in many ways it is a cozy, albeit a police procedural more than a mystery. Sgt. Windflower is in command of a small detachment of the RCMP in Grand Banks in southeast Newfoundland. I liked the story, I liked the setting, I liked the plot. This is the fourth book in the series and at this point I am considering reading books two and three, but with the knowledge I will be reading a police procedural about the RCMP more than a mystery.
I won this book in return for my honest review.
This book is marketed under cozy mysteries, and in many ways it is a cozy, albeit a police procedural more than a mystery. Sgt. Windflower is in command of a small detachment of the RCMP in Grand Banks in southeast Newfoundland. I liked the story, I liked the setting, I liked the plot. This is the fourth book in the series and at this point I am considering reading books two and three, but with the knowledge I will be reading a police procedural about the RCMP more than a mystery.
I won this book in return for my honest review.
May 7, 2015
Sgt. Winston Windflower becomes more interesting with each book. He is not the typical renegade or fast action cop; he does his job, follows the rules whenever possible, and keeps his balance with his beliefs and personal relationships. He has high expectations of the people he supervises and doesn't let problems slide and yet has great empathy. The other characters hold their own too, especially Tizzard, Sheila, Herb and the coroner.
The plot is well done; the Mounties must work together to track the complicated drug network. I especially love the setting. In this book the Newfoundland winter is a major factor. Some might think the snowstorms are overdone but those of us in the northern climes are well aware that once one of these systems starts pounding an area, it can be relentless. Well done!
The plot is well done; the Mounties must work together to track the complicated drug network. I especially love the setting. In this book the Newfoundland winter is a major factor. Some might think the snowstorms are overdone but those of us in the northern climes are well aware that once one of these systems starts pounding an area, it can be relentless. Well done!
April 6, 2016
I have read all of the Windflower series and found them to be comfortable and cozy reads. Winston Windflower is a stalwart and resilient character who is dedicated to his Creator and his work at the RCMP force. He smudges and prays daily for his own and others' wellbeing.
Windflower is a likable person who I have grown to love in this series. He has a special lady in his life, Sheila, who also is an ardent supporter of Windflower and their community. Together they are a force to be reckoned with.
The author shares his knowledge of the terrain and harsh weather conditions of Grand Bank, Newfoundland and surrounding territories and some culinary delights. I look forward to reading what Mike Martin will write next.
Windflower is a likable person who I have grown to love in this series. He has a special lady in his life, Sheila, who also is an ardent supporter of Windflower and their community. Together they are a force to be reckoned with.
The author shares his knowledge of the terrain and harsh weather conditions of Grand Bank, Newfoundland and surrounding territories and some culinary delights. I look forward to reading what Mike Martin will write next.
April 26, 2015
As in all the other novels in the series, Windflower's work on the case is on an even par with his beloved mealtimes and his personal life, which leads to a slower paced, less intense read that many other crime fiction novels. It takes a while to get used to but I have come to love Sgt Windflower's easy going, low pressure approach to life. Reading the book has also given me a couple of great ideas for dinner - I really need to find a recipe for ice cream cheesecake !
full review on my blog : http://madhousefamilyreviews.blogspot...
full review on my blog : http://madhousefamilyreviews.blogspot...
July 17, 2016
I just finished "A twist of fortune" and I'm disappointed in this book. The beginning of the book had me hooked, and I thought this was going to be a hell of a mystery / thriller with many twists. But actually, it was nothing like that. The action was slow, boring, and the descriptions of food and dog walks were more numerous than the actual murder investigation.
It's a shame, but I didn't enjoy this book, apart from the first 30 pages.
I received this book via goodreads in exchange for an honest review. I'm sorry for taking so long to read it and review it.
It's a shame, but I didn't enjoy this book, apart from the first 30 pages.
I received this book via goodreads in exchange for an honest review. I'm sorry for taking so long to read it and review it.
February 7, 2016
I received this book from the author as a prize in a trivia contest.
I have been wanting to read one of Mike Martin's books and I finally got the chance. I really enjoyed it! I didn't feel like I missed out by not reading the other books in the series. And I did feel like I got to know Sgt. Windflower and his girlfriend, Sheila, as I was reading. I also enjoyed the descriptions of the snowy weather. Some day I would like to visit Newfoundland. Thanks, Mr. Martin, for the good read!
I have been wanting to read one of Mike Martin's books and I finally got the chance. I really enjoyed it! I didn't feel like I missed out by not reading the other books in the series. And I did feel like I got to know Sgt. Windflower and his girlfriend, Sheila, as I was reading. I also enjoyed the descriptions of the snowy weather. Some day I would like to visit Newfoundland. Thanks, Mr. Martin, for the good read!
May 10, 2015
What I really love about this series is that it feels 'real' The characters come to life and the pace reflects how things happen in the real world as opposed to the unrealistic hyped up action that makes it to the big screen. Reading A Twist Of Fortune is like being able to peer into the 'real life' of Sgt. Windflower and this is what makes it so good!
May 18, 2015
As a big fan of the Bergerac series here in the UK I knew I was going to like this series and I was right. I can easily imagine the settings and the characters and even though A Twist Of Fortune is part of a series it can still be enjoyed as a stand alone read. Very good!
April 23, 2015
A light read.
Read
November 13, 2017Book #4. Windflower ( a RCMP) is a very interesting person with an ever changing life. Each book has brought him more into focus. The stories, are not deep nut are interesting and show us a part of Newfoundland, the cold, the wind and rain and also their problem with drugs. Dn't love the books, but like them.
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