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The Concrete Vineyard
Why would anyone want to murder the most respected senior citizen, Niagara-on-the-Lake has ever had?
Retired history professor Edward Mitchell was surely not long for the grave, so why would someone risk life in prison to kill him? Picking up the clues is the reluctant Homicide Chief Detective, Bryan Dee. Thinking he might be out of his depth he is happy to enlist the aid of his friend, Kris Gage. But when Dee reads the deceased's last entry in his diary, 'time to take care of K. Gage', he becomes torn between investigation and friendship.
As an urban planner, Gage understands real estate and the bureaucracy of planning. Following the money, he soon finds himself in the middle of corrupt developers who seek to take all the charm out of the area. Over two hundred years after the War of 1812, is Niagara-on-the-Lake, once again, on-the-Take?
The Concrete Vineyard is an intriguing and unique whodunit. Packing an intellectual punch, this smart murder/mystery will have you guessing and gripped! If you like great characters, clever plots and intelligent storytelling, then you'll love this creative and thought-provoking novel.
Retired history professor Edward Mitchell was surely not long for the grave, so why would someone risk life in prison to kill him? Picking up the clues is the reluctant Homicide Chief Detective, Bryan Dee. Thinking he might be out of his depth he is happy to enlist the aid of his friend, Kris Gage. But when Dee reads the deceased's last entry in his diary, 'time to take care of K. Gage', he becomes torn between investigation and friendship.
As an urban planner, Gage understands real estate and the bureaucracy of planning. Following the money, he soon finds himself in the middle of corrupt developers who seek to take all the charm out of the area. Over two hundred years after the War of 1812, is Niagara-on-the-Lake, once again, on-the-Take?
The Concrete Vineyard is an intriguing and unique whodunit. Packing an intellectual punch, this smart murder/mystery will have you guessing and gripped! If you like great characters, clever plots and intelligent storytelling, then you'll love this creative and thought-provoking novel.
468 pages, Paperback
Published December 2, 2020
30 people are currently reading
1915 people want to read
About the author
Cam Lang
1 book47 followersCam is a professional planner, urban designer, and development manager. He has practiced in both urban and rural settings across Canada on projects ranging from master-planned communities and big city high-rises to rural strategic and official plans.
He grew up working in the fruit orchards and vineyards of Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario – a setting which confirmed how utterly useless a farmer he was but which also piqued his interest in urban planning, architecture, culturally significant landscapes, built heritage, tourism planning, sustainability, and design.
He takes his readers into the closed-door meetings of the planning and political bureaucracy and writes about corruption in land development and municipal politics.
He grew up working in the fruit orchards and vineyards of Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario – a setting which confirmed how utterly useless a farmer he was but which also piqued his interest in urban planning, architecture, culturally significant landscapes, built heritage, tourism planning, sustainability, and design.
He takes his readers into the closed-door meetings of the planning and political bureaucracy and writes about corruption in land development and municipal politics.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
February 24, 2021
In Lang’s skillfully layered debut mystery, a decade-old crime, grief, and regret provide the backdrop for an account of vengeance and redemption in the cozy town of Niagara-on-the-Lake.
When the reluctant Homicide Chief Detective Bryan Dee is assigned to investigate the killing of 91-year-old retired history professor Edward Mitchell, one of the most respected senior citizens the city has ever had, he is happy to enlist the help of Kris Gage, his best friend and an urban planner. But when Bryan happens upon the victim’s last diary entry with Kris’s name in it, he finds himself torn between his friendship and professional commitment. Meanwhile, following a financial trail, Kris uncovers a dark web of corruption.
Lang’s assured, rich prose effortlessly draws the reader into the story, and his tension-filled narrative is rife on unexpected turns, keeping the pages turning. All the main characters, including the victim and the perpetrators carry heavy emotional baggage, and Lang skillfully explores their grief, loss, fear, insecurities, rage, and regrets.
In creating the setting of Niagara-on-the-Lake, Lang beautifully evokes its spirit, making it alive in readers’ hearts. Along the way, he examines the themes of revenge, redemption, corruption, and social justice. The minute details of urban planning are infused into the narrative with subtlety. This is a mystery readers will relish for its sensitive characterization, expert plotting, local color, and relentless suspense.
Writing both from heart and gut, Lang is an author to watch.
When the reluctant Homicide Chief Detective Bryan Dee is assigned to investigate the killing of 91-year-old retired history professor Edward Mitchell, one of the most respected senior citizens the city has ever had, he is happy to enlist the help of Kris Gage, his best friend and an urban planner. But when Bryan happens upon the victim’s last diary entry with Kris’s name in it, he finds himself torn between his friendship and professional commitment. Meanwhile, following a financial trail, Kris uncovers a dark web of corruption.
Lang’s assured, rich prose effortlessly draws the reader into the story, and his tension-filled narrative is rife on unexpected turns, keeping the pages turning. All the main characters, including the victim and the perpetrators carry heavy emotional baggage, and Lang skillfully explores their grief, loss, fear, insecurities, rage, and regrets.
In creating the setting of Niagara-on-the-Lake, Lang beautifully evokes its spirit, making it alive in readers’ hearts. Along the way, he examines the themes of revenge, redemption, corruption, and social justice. The minute details of urban planning are infused into the narrative with subtlety. This is a mystery readers will relish for its sensitive characterization, expert plotting, local color, and relentless suspense.
Writing both from heart and gut, Lang is an author to watch.
April 23, 2021
I really liked this book. Set in the wine country of Canada, the descriptions of the local area near Niagara Falls were vivid and enticing. I always love a murder mystery, and this author kept me guessing right up til the last few pages, then ended the book in a completely inventive way. Do yourself a favor and settle in with a nice glass of wine while you read this one!
March 6, 2021
When I noticed this book was about my hometown I had to read it. I also work in a winery so it had extra appeal. I could be bias but the descriptions of the settings were spot on. I knew everywhere the author was talking about as he journeyed through the story.
Bryan Dee, the detective investigating the murder is a likeable dimwit, naive when it comes to police work but quite formidable when it comes to a knowledge of history, particularly the War of 1812. He coerces his best friend, Kris Gage, an urban planner (who is all too willing) to help him investigate the murder of a revered old man, who also happens to own the most valuable property in Old Town. The two of them take different paths in trying to figure out the suspects and they're not always working from the same page. In fact, Gage (as a first-person narrator) could even be a suspect himself. This really added intrigue to the story and helped build the suspense, especially in the second half of the novel.
There has been a lot of change in the last few decades to this historic town and many are upset about it. Poor development, tree cutting, increased traffic, etc. The author weaves it all into the story. The notes and acknowledgements are particularly revealing. I loved this book!
Bryan Dee, the detective investigating the murder is a likeable dimwit, naive when it comes to police work but quite formidable when it comes to a knowledge of history, particularly the War of 1812. He coerces his best friend, Kris Gage, an urban planner (who is all too willing) to help him investigate the murder of a revered old man, who also happens to own the most valuable property in Old Town. The two of them take different paths in trying to figure out the suspects and they're not always working from the same page. In fact, Gage (as a first-person narrator) could even be a suspect himself. This really added intrigue to the story and helped build the suspense, especially in the second half of the novel.
There has been a lot of change in the last few decades to this historic town and many are upset about it. Poor development, tree cutting, increased traffic, etc. The author weaves it all into the story. The notes and acknowledgements are particularly revealing. I loved this book!
April 16, 2021
**4.5 stars**
This was such an original and captivating book. Cam Lang uses his experience as a professional planner to bring you a murder mystery woven within the corrupt and egregious decisions that can take place within urban planning and politics.
With an immense attention to detail and epigrammatic writing style, this story is not only a murder mystery but a beautiful lesson in history. Cam paints the scene of Niagra-on-the-Lake beautifully - I am now keen to visit this picturesque town and its wineries after reading this book, once restrictions allow - iced wine anyone?!
A slow burner with incredible characterisation, there are suspenseful twists, laced with sardonic humour, and a fabulous twist and resolution at the end.
Cam is a natural at telling a story that keeps the reader intrigued. The shift from first to third person took a little getting used to but this is a minor critique. If you want a witty and intelligently written murder mystery, while also learning more of the historical backdrop of Canada, then The Concrete Vineyard is a must. Thoroughly recommended to all.
Thank you to LoveBooksTours and Cam Lang for a gifted e-book.
This was such an original and captivating book. Cam Lang uses his experience as a professional planner to bring you a murder mystery woven within the corrupt and egregious decisions that can take place within urban planning and politics.
With an immense attention to detail and epigrammatic writing style, this story is not only a murder mystery but a beautiful lesson in history. Cam paints the scene of Niagra-on-the-Lake beautifully - I am now keen to visit this picturesque town and its wineries after reading this book, once restrictions allow - iced wine anyone?!
A slow burner with incredible characterisation, there are suspenseful twists, laced with sardonic humour, and a fabulous twist and resolution at the end.
Cam is a natural at telling a story that keeps the reader intrigued. The shift from first to third person took a little getting used to but this is a minor critique. If you want a witty and intelligently written murder mystery, while also learning more of the historical backdrop of Canada, then The Concrete Vineyard is a must. Thoroughly recommended to all.
Thank you to LoveBooksTours and Cam Lang for a gifted e-book.
March 6, 2021
What a captivating plot! This has to be one of the most creative mysteries I have read in some time. It's so much more than a mystery though. It's incredibly informative. The murder is just the beginning and really just a backdrop to the more important points this author is trying to make about good planning, civic responsibility, active transportation and the value of heritage preservation in the face of greed and progress.
Almost every character that comes into play in the political and land development game is involved in trying to get their hands on the historical and valuable Mitchell Estate. From realtors, to developers, politicians, other historians and even "ladies of the night", they all seem to be suspects at various points in the story.
I'm impressed this was a debut novel. It's an incredible read that I will be suggesting to my book club and others.
Almost every character that comes into play in the political and land development game is involved in trying to get their hands on the historical and valuable Mitchell Estate. From realtors, to developers, politicians, other historians and even "ladies of the night", they all seem to be suspects at various points in the story.
I'm impressed this was a debut novel. It's an incredible read that I will be suggesting to my book club and others.
April 8, 2021
I received a free copy of this book via Voracious Readers Only in exchange for an honest review.
This book took me a while to read; I know more about land use and planning now although I felt all of the detail took over the story slightly! Cam Lang obviously knows his subject really well, but the murder mystery almost seemed incidental to the destruction of the area.
This book took me a while to read; I know more about land use and planning now although I felt all of the detail took over the story slightly! Cam Lang obviously knows his subject really well, but the murder mystery almost seemed incidental to the destruction of the area.
July 24, 2021
This story is quite a wild ride. I was a little unsure what to expect when I looked at this on Amazon. The blurb sounds fascinating. The cover gave me a bit of a middle-grade vibe. For some reason, Amazon categorized this as an urban planning novel. Now urban planning does play a large and informative role in the plot, but there is no way this is just an urban planning book. Read on, my friend, while I explain this as best I can.
First off, The Concrete Vineyard is a thrilling mystery. It has every aspect needed to be solidly put in that genre. However, it also has so many elements. Organized crime, murder, shady planners, crooked business people, family, and more make up this intriguing tale. And the history lessons on The War of 1812 and the Niagra-on-the-Lake area are enlightening and add so much depth to the story without coming off as a dry-filler. Every chapter of this book screams, "Aren't you glad you didn't pass me by?"
The characters and their backstory are well-developed without feeling like I was reading an information dump. The pacing was perfect throughout the book. It kept me turning the pages, always seeking the next clue to the mystery.
Secondly, I am amazed at the detail put into the book. The author melds his theories on urban planning and the history of the area into the general fiction of the story. This is a book that will leave you ready to learn more about the facts in the tale. I admit the characters became very real to me. I had a difficult time remembering they belonged to the fictional part of the novel.
Overall, I found The Concrete Vineyard to be an excellent read and well worth the investment of time and money to be this highly entertained. History buffs to fans of "whodunits" will adore this tale.
First off, The Concrete Vineyard is a thrilling mystery. It has every aspect needed to be solidly put in that genre. However, it also has so many elements. Organized crime, murder, shady planners, crooked business people, family, and more make up this intriguing tale. And the history lessons on The War of 1812 and the Niagra-on-the-Lake area are enlightening and add so much depth to the story without coming off as a dry-filler. Every chapter of this book screams, "Aren't you glad you didn't pass me by?"
The characters and their backstory are well-developed without feeling like I was reading an information dump. The pacing was perfect throughout the book. It kept me turning the pages, always seeking the next clue to the mystery.
Secondly, I am amazed at the detail put into the book. The author melds his theories on urban planning and the history of the area into the general fiction of the story. This is a book that will leave you ready to learn more about the facts in the tale. I admit the characters became very real to me. I had a difficult time remembering they belonged to the fictional part of the novel.
Overall, I found The Concrete Vineyard to be an excellent read and well worth the investment of time and money to be this highly entertained. History buffs to fans of "whodunits" will adore this tale.
May 14, 2021
There is a lot going on in this book, surprising me by how long it took to read.
Early in the book, it seemed to me that the author couldn't decide whether to write a murder mystery or a treatise on urban planning. I could see myself giving it four stars for that reason as it seemed unnecessary confusion. But I was wrong. In fact the book is so much more than a mere mystery and for me, fully earns its five stars.
Not only does it also have a lot of material about urban planning, and that is worth reading for its own sake, but also there is a look at corruption and influence in local politics, to say nothing of a good deal of Canadian history. The Canadian history did interest me, coming as I do from the other side of the world. So many diverse threads, but they are all drawn together in a satisfying conclusion. The setting of the town of Niagara On The Lake is vividly described too. I chose to read this book because I had visited the town and it is always good to read about even slightly familiar landscapes. I now feel I should visit again because I clearly missed a lot of things of interest.
Through all this the mystery. Why was one of the town's most distinguished citizens murdered during the Canada Day celebrations? There are many characters and most are drawn well. I say that because I did feel that some female characters were stereotypes. The chief characters, Kris from whose point of view much of the story is told, and Bryan the local homicide detective are well drawn and believable.
I will not touch too much on the mystery except to say that one thing that makes it really good is I cannot see how anyone reading the book could possibly guess the guilty party. Matter of fact, I am not entirely sure I see how Kris and Bryan independently came up with the solution. But then, it is a story, after all.
This is a first book for Cam Lang. It is to be hoped that there are others to follow.
My copy of the book was supplied through Voracious Readers and I thank them and the author for the opportunity to read and review.
Early in the book, it seemed to me that the author couldn't decide whether to write a murder mystery or a treatise on urban planning. I could see myself giving it four stars for that reason as it seemed unnecessary confusion. But I was wrong. In fact the book is so much more than a mere mystery and for me, fully earns its five stars.
Not only does it also have a lot of material about urban planning, and that is worth reading for its own sake, but also there is a look at corruption and influence in local politics, to say nothing of a good deal of Canadian history. The Canadian history did interest me, coming as I do from the other side of the world. So many diverse threads, but they are all drawn together in a satisfying conclusion. The setting of the town of Niagara On The Lake is vividly described too. I chose to read this book because I had visited the town and it is always good to read about even slightly familiar landscapes. I now feel I should visit again because I clearly missed a lot of things of interest.
Through all this the mystery. Why was one of the town's most distinguished citizens murdered during the Canada Day celebrations? There are many characters and most are drawn well. I say that because I did feel that some female characters were stereotypes. The chief characters, Kris from whose point of view much of the story is told, and Bryan the local homicide detective are well drawn and believable.
I will not touch too much on the mystery except to say that one thing that makes it really good is I cannot see how anyone reading the book could possibly guess the guilty party. Matter of fact, I am not entirely sure I see how Kris and Bryan independently came up with the solution. But then, it is a story, after all.
This is a first book for Cam Lang. It is to be hoped that there are others to follow.
My copy of the book was supplied through Voracious Readers and I thank them and the author for the opportunity to read and review.
March 6, 2021
This intricately plotted mystery, set in Ontario, first drew my attention because of a decades-long genealogical interest in Canadian history. The novel’s protagonist, Urban Planner Kris Gage arranges a month’s vacation to relax in his hometown of Niagara-on-the-Lake, only to quickly have his plans go off the rails. He is asked to help gain project approval for a friend's winery in the small town, and to assist in solving the murder of a highly prestigious 90-year old neighbor.
The police detective assigned to the homicide investigation, a boyhood friend of Gage not emotionally well-suited to the job, asks for his support in solving the case. And Gage isn't one to say "no" to such a request. Besides, it is still considered being on vacation if the work involves someone else’s job, right?
Soon historical subplots and shady real estate dealings become entangled in the homicide investigation, leading to disturbing revelations and more than a few comical interactions among a cast of eccentric characters who all earn their time in the spotlight.
Detailed history of Canada's military involvement in the War of 1812 helps to drive the plot and plays into the mystery's satisfying resolution. Gage's suggested possibilities for successful urban renewal offer hope for a safer environment in this small town scarred by past tragedies.
Excellent command of first and third person point of view keep the story flowing without disruption. The author's career experience in urban planning and his attention to detail lend authenticity to the story line and make The Concrete Vineyard an enjoyable and educational reading experience.
The police detective assigned to the homicide investigation, a boyhood friend of Gage not emotionally well-suited to the job, asks for his support in solving the case. And Gage isn't one to say "no" to such a request. Besides, it is still considered being on vacation if the work involves someone else’s job, right?
Soon historical subplots and shady real estate dealings become entangled in the homicide investigation, leading to disturbing revelations and more than a few comical interactions among a cast of eccentric characters who all earn their time in the spotlight.
Detailed history of Canada's military involvement in the War of 1812 helps to drive the plot and plays into the mystery's satisfying resolution. Gage's suggested possibilities for successful urban renewal offer hope for a safer environment in this small town scarred by past tragedies.
Excellent command of first and third person point of view keep the story flowing without disruption. The author's career experience in urban planning and his attention to detail lend authenticity to the story line and make The Concrete Vineyard an enjoyable and educational reading experience.
May 5, 2022
An intriguing mystery
I love a mystery, and The Concrete Vineyard certainly didn't disappoint with its twists and turns. Its conclusion is a complete surprise and dramatically discovered by our protagonist.
There was a lot of great information in this novel, but I wanted the action to move along more quickly. The ending was drawn out with numerous snippets of final details about the people featured in the story.
Personally, I found the switch from the first-person narrative when hearing from our hero to the third-person narrative for everyone else distracting. Although the swearing didn't bother me, there was other offensive language and some stereotyping of the women.
I've been to NOTL and loved it. Such fun to read a book set in a place you know, even if only a little.
I love a mystery, and The Concrete Vineyard certainly didn't disappoint with its twists and turns. Its conclusion is a complete surprise and dramatically discovered by our protagonist.
There was a lot of great information in this novel, but I wanted the action to move along more quickly. The ending was drawn out with numerous snippets of final details about the people featured in the story.
Personally, I found the switch from the first-person narrative when hearing from our hero to the third-person narrative for everyone else distracting. Although the swearing didn't bother me, there was other offensive language and some stereotyping of the women.
I've been to NOTL and loved it. Such fun to read a book set in a place you know, even if only a little.
December 23, 2021
A very slow burn murder mystery that repays the patient reader
Kris Gage is home in NOTL (Niagra-on-the-Lake) on an extended vacation from his work in Vancouver and looking forward to some rest and relaxation - and maybe getting to know the woman he met on the plane. But he returns to find one of the pillars of the community and the owner of a large historic mansion and estate in the town, Edward Mitchel has been murdered.
Gage's childhood friend Bryan Dee is the police officer in charge of the investigation and once it becomes clear that corrupt developers and council officials are likely at the heart of the matter, Gage gets involved too, as an expert - his day job being an urban planner. But then things turn nasty and he finds that whoever killed Edward Mitchell would not mind killing Kris Gage too...
The book is a smooth read in general, with some truly wonderful descriptions cropping up here and there such as:
'The church doors abruptly opened, and an ooze of black outfits poured out like a heavy oil spill.
and:
'Hundreds, if not thousands, of cars darted around the roadways and fields, squeezing their shapes and edges into every available chasm like a game of Tetris.'
It has some brilliantly sculpted characters and new takes on the classic ones that are needed to populate a murder mystery. The plot itself is wonderfully convoluted and the denouement genuinely shocking and unexpected.
Indeed this book should be a five star read but for me, it is three and a half at most (I've rounded up as half stars are not allowed).
It is spoilt, in my opinion, by the inclusion of other points of view aside from the main character - and worse the main character is written in first person and the side characters in a very loose third person which slips from character to character in the same section at times.
If those third person sections were removed the book would be utterly brilliant. Firstly because it would be a fair bit shorter and the plot would drag less as a result making it all much more punchy and secondly because the reader would not be left starting each chapter by not knowing for a couple of paragraphs quite often, whose head they are supposed to be in. It would simply be a much better book.
As it is, this is a book that will reward the patient reader who is willing to wait for the halfway mark before things take off. If you do, you will undoubtedly be hooked and thoroughly enjoy the rest of the ride.
Kris Gage is home in NOTL (Niagra-on-the-Lake) on an extended vacation from his work in Vancouver and looking forward to some rest and relaxation - and maybe getting to know the woman he met on the plane. But he returns to find one of the pillars of the community and the owner of a large historic mansion and estate in the town, Edward Mitchel has been murdered.
Gage's childhood friend Bryan Dee is the police officer in charge of the investigation and once it becomes clear that corrupt developers and council officials are likely at the heart of the matter, Gage gets involved too, as an expert - his day job being an urban planner. But then things turn nasty and he finds that whoever killed Edward Mitchell would not mind killing Kris Gage too...
The book is a smooth read in general, with some truly wonderful descriptions cropping up here and there such as:
'The church doors abruptly opened, and an ooze of black outfits poured out like a heavy oil spill.
and:
'Hundreds, if not thousands, of cars darted around the roadways and fields, squeezing their shapes and edges into every available chasm like a game of Tetris.'
It has some brilliantly sculpted characters and new takes on the classic ones that are needed to populate a murder mystery. The plot itself is wonderfully convoluted and the denouement genuinely shocking and unexpected.
Indeed this book should be a five star read but for me, it is three and a half at most (I've rounded up as half stars are not allowed).
It is spoilt, in my opinion, by the inclusion of other points of view aside from the main character - and worse the main character is written in first person and the side characters in a very loose third person which slips from character to character in the same section at times.
If those third person sections were removed the book would be utterly brilliant. Firstly because it would be a fair bit shorter and the plot would drag less as a result making it all much more punchy and secondly because the reader would not be left starting each chapter by not knowing for a couple of paragraphs quite often, whose head they are supposed to be in. It would simply be a much better book.
As it is, this is a book that will reward the patient reader who is willing to wait for the halfway mark before things take off. If you do, you will undoubtedly be hooked and thoroughly enjoy the rest of the ride.
December 30, 2021
The Concrete Vineyard is a plethora of things: murder mystery, history lesson, and an education on urban planning.
The heart of this story is pumped full of intrigue. Who killed Edward Mitchell? There will be no spoilers in this review.
But the pace of solving the crime is littered with background information on the town of Niagara on the Lake. Full of wineries and planning disputes, the main character Kris Gage, has his hands full.
Gage is just an urban planner, returning home to NOTL for some rest and relaxation at his parents’ house, but he gets thrown into the murder of Edward Mitchell, more so than anyone had thought, in fact. He goes into sleuth mode, helping his friend, an actual police officer, investigate what really happened to Edward Mitchell. Typically, I am not a fan of sleuthy-type reads, I’d rather read a solid police procedural, I suppose.
As the story goes on, one might get lost in some of the extra material written in: community disputes about touristy things and the wide range of extra characters that all get their moment in the light.
I’ve never been good at deciding who did it in a murder mystery, but this one has a satisfying twist that I feel most people would be surprised with, so it doesn't really matter if you figure it out ahead of time or not.
I’ll give it a solid 4 stars, because I got lost along the way a few times-I’m not one for very wordy work and there were many passages that I got stuck on, overthinking and rereading. I would have liked the pace of the murder investigation to be faster, with more focus on the investigation and less focus on the background things, but it all ends up coming together nicely.
The overall length of the book was what really did me in. With the extra explanations, character perspectives, and advanced history lessons it was quite a long read.
Well done Cam Lang. You’ve written a complex novel that has a lot to give.
The heart of this story is pumped full of intrigue. Who killed Edward Mitchell? There will be no spoilers in this review.
But the pace of solving the crime is littered with background information on the town of Niagara on the Lake. Full of wineries and planning disputes, the main character Kris Gage, has his hands full.
Gage is just an urban planner, returning home to NOTL for some rest and relaxation at his parents’ house, but he gets thrown into the murder of Edward Mitchell, more so than anyone had thought, in fact. He goes into sleuth mode, helping his friend, an actual police officer, investigate what really happened to Edward Mitchell. Typically, I am not a fan of sleuthy-type reads, I’d rather read a solid police procedural, I suppose.
As the story goes on, one might get lost in some of the extra material written in: community disputes about touristy things and the wide range of extra characters that all get their moment in the light.
I’ve never been good at deciding who did it in a murder mystery, but this one has a satisfying twist that I feel most people would be surprised with, so it doesn't really matter if you figure it out ahead of time or not.
I’ll give it a solid 4 stars, because I got lost along the way a few times-I’m not one for very wordy work and there were many passages that I got stuck on, overthinking and rereading. I would have liked the pace of the murder investigation to be faster, with more focus on the investigation and less focus on the background things, but it all ends up coming together nicely.
The overall length of the book was what really did me in. With the extra explanations, character perspectives, and advanced history lessons it was quite a long read.
Well done Cam Lang. You’ve written a complex novel that has a lot to give.
August 5, 2021
I received this book from VRO (great service - exposes me to books and authors I would not know about - you should try it for yourselves).
This book surprised me. It was complex and well written, historical and educational and very interesting.
I loved the characters - and almost cried in my work lunch room while I read the last 35 pages ... I did not see that coming. I knew the death of his brother played some part but not like this.
Cam - please write more of these novels! I love Kris and Bryan. I love the characters, your writing style, and honestly - it was one of the most enjoyable reads I've read for a long time.
This book surprised me. It was complex and well written, historical and educational and very interesting.
I loved the characters - and almost cried in my work lunch room while I read the last 35 pages ... I did not see that coming. I knew the death of his brother played some part but not like this.
Cam - please write more of these novels! I love Kris and Bryan. I love the characters, your writing style, and honestly - it was one of the most enjoyable reads I've read for a long time.
April 14, 2021
An intriguing murder mystery set in the beautiful surroundings of Niagara on the lake.
Urban planner Kris Gage is enlisted by his detective friend Bryan Dee to help him investigate the death of Edward Mitchell, the wealthy elderly owner of the most sort after home and land in the area. Kris’s knowledge on property and development turns out to be very useful indeed.
With a vast array of suspects each with their own personal agenda and motives for his murder, Kris and Bryan have their work cut out!
This is a very clever and interesting read, a little longer than I thought necessary but never the less an attention holding, twisty and turny story that had me guessing right until the reveal….and even then I was wrong!
Urban planner Kris Gage is enlisted by his detective friend Bryan Dee to help him investigate the death of Edward Mitchell, the wealthy elderly owner of the most sort after home and land in the area. Kris’s knowledge on property and development turns out to be very useful indeed.
With a vast array of suspects each with their own personal agenda and motives for his murder, Kris and Bryan have their work cut out!
This is a very clever and interesting read, a little longer than I thought necessary but never the less an attention holding, twisty and turny story that had me guessing right until the reveal….and even then I was wrong!
February 14, 2021
During the 150th celebration of Canada Day in Niagara Falls, a retired history Professor named Edward Mitchell is murdered near his home. The next day, this tragic news spreads very quickly in the small town because Mitchell owned an historical estate that had been passed down through his family and he had no heirs to inherit the vast property.
Kris Gage, an urban planner, is on his way back to his childhood home in Niagara Falls to help his parents move. Once there, he hears of Edward Mitchell's death from his friend Detective Bryan Dee who has recently been promoted to homicide detective of the Niagara region. Mitchell had been Bryan's history Professor and mentor when he was in college. This puts more pressure on him to find the murderer. Bryan asks Kris to help him with the investigation because it may involve the motive of acquiring Edward's land which is very valuable and is located by lake Niagara and surrounded by beautiful vineyards.
The last person to be seen with Mitchell on Canada Day was his realtor Seamus O' Reilly who had recently put the historic property up for sale. Bryan and Kris go to question him the next day. Seamus has an alibi as he was with family celebrating the Canada Day fireworks during the estimated time of the murder and Mitchell was worth more to him alive than dead because Seamus was supposed to receive 6% commission when the property was sold.
Detective Bryan Dee and Kris get more leads and some strange clues are found on the Mitchell property which point to Edward having lived a secret life. High society members of the town, politics, a property development company and local rumors surround the mysterious murder of Edward Mitchell.
Kris Gage, an urban planner, is on his way back to his childhood home in Niagara Falls to help his parents move. Once there, he hears of Edward Mitchell's death from his friend Detective Bryan Dee who has recently been promoted to homicide detective of the Niagara region. Mitchell had been Bryan's history Professor and mentor when he was in college. This puts more pressure on him to find the murderer. Bryan asks Kris to help him with the investigation because it may involve the motive of acquiring Edward's land which is very valuable and is located by lake Niagara and surrounded by beautiful vineyards.
The last person to be seen with Mitchell on Canada Day was his realtor Seamus O' Reilly who had recently put the historic property up for sale. Bryan and Kris go to question him the next day. Seamus has an alibi as he was with family celebrating the Canada Day fireworks during the estimated time of the murder and Mitchell was worth more to him alive than dead because Seamus was supposed to receive 6% commission when the property was sold.
Detective Bryan Dee and Kris get more leads and some strange clues are found on the Mitchell property which point to Edward having lived a secret life. High society members of the town, politics, a property development company and local rumors surround the mysterious murder of Edward Mitchell.
September 7, 2022
This is Cam Lang's debut novel, and I must say it's a beauty. A murder mystery set in rural Canada that also tackles one of his passions: urban planning. This also won a gold metal from Reader's Favorite Book Contest, in FICTION - MYSTERY - SLEUTH. I gave this book an easy 5 out of 5 stars. This kept me guessing until the end and it should be on your 'to read' list.
January 23, 2022
Entertaining murder mystery story with urban development insights.
That was a fast-paced, exciting mystery murder. Kris, an urban planner by profession, visits his parents in Niagara on the Lake and helps them pack as they have sold their house. Their neighbor, a retired history professor Edward Mitchell, was killed around Kris’s arrival, and the investigation started. The main detective in charge of the inquiry is Bryan Dee, who happens to be Kris’s longtime friend. As Mitchell was a rich man and had no heir, the reasons behind this murder were not so easy to see at first.
At first, I was surprised to see that Kris, a civilian, was as much part of the investigation as the police force. But in time, things made sense, and I accepted this unusual (for me) situation. I love the most about mysteries when the answer is not apparent, and this book stayed an enigma almost till the end. That is something I appreciated. To say more, I’d have to spoil the story.
I also learned many things about the town of Niagara on the Lake, its vineyards, and its history. Along with Kris’s role in the investigation, I also learned a lot about urban designing and planning. The author didn’t just throw them in there to fill up the pages, but they were crucial to the story. The quantity of information on the subject may be off-putting for some readers, but it wasn’t the case for me. It’s always a plus when I learn new things with every book I read, being a mystery, science fiction, romance, or you name it.
All in all, this qualifies for an entertaining, well-written novel, with a sound build plot and beautiful description of characters and places. One fun note: If you are a wine lover, pour yourself a glass before reading The Concrete Vineyard. and enjoy!
That was a fast-paced, exciting mystery murder. Kris, an urban planner by profession, visits his parents in Niagara on the Lake and helps them pack as they have sold their house. Their neighbor, a retired history professor Edward Mitchell, was killed around Kris’s arrival, and the investigation started. The main detective in charge of the inquiry is Bryan Dee, who happens to be Kris’s longtime friend. As Mitchell was a rich man and had no heir, the reasons behind this murder were not so easy to see at first.
At first, I was surprised to see that Kris, a civilian, was as much part of the investigation as the police force. But in time, things made sense, and I accepted this unusual (for me) situation. I love the most about mysteries when the answer is not apparent, and this book stayed an enigma almost till the end. That is something I appreciated. To say more, I’d have to spoil the story.
I also learned many things about the town of Niagara on the Lake, its vineyards, and its history. Along with Kris’s role in the investigation, I also learned a lot about urban designing and planning. The author didn’t just throw them in there to fill up the pages, but they were crucial to the story. The quantity of information on the subject may be off-putting for some readers, but it wasn’t the case for me. It’s always a plus when I learn new things with every book I read, being a mystery, science fiction, romance, or you name it.
All in all, this qualifies for an entertaining, well-written novel, with a sound build plot and beautiful description of characters and places. One fun note: If you are a wine lover, pour yourself a glass before reading The Concrete Vineyard. and enjoy!
August 30, 2021
Cam Lang’s murder mystery The Concrete Vineyard takes place in Canada’s first national capital, a stone’s throw from Niagara Falls. This gives his book a rich historical backdrop, which the author mines carefully to provide depth for his story. Lang, a retired urban planner and designer, has also woven into the novel his insights concerning more appropriate and humane land use for his city of focus, which is presently undergoing reckless commercial development. Both of these factual overlays enrich the book, so that an interested reader learns history and urban planning while being entertained.
The heart of a good mystery is of course the mystery itself, which is found exactly where it should be here, beating strongly in the foreground as a complex and involving murder investigation unfolds. The characters are well drawn and interesting and the unfolding is quite deftly managed. As we all do, I tried to deduce the killer while I read, and I thought I was closing in on the right character when my expectations were completely upended by a conclusion I didn’t even begin to see coming. On analysis, though, it made total sense. And isn’t that how a good mystery is supposed to work? This one works for me—very much so. This is the author’s first novel, I believe, and he has made the most of it. I wish him (and us) many more such books.
The heart of a good mystery is of course the mystery itself, which is found exactly where it should be here, beating strongly in the foreground as a complex and involving murder investigation unfolds. The characters are well drawn and interesting and the unfolding is quite deftly managed. As we all do, I tried to deduce the killer while I read, and I thought I was closing in on the right character when my expectations were completely upended by a conclusion I didn’t even begin to see coming. On analysis, though, it made total sense. And isn’t that how a good mystery is supposed to work? This one works for me—very much so. This is the author’s first novel, I believe, and he has made the most of it. I wish him (and us) many more such books.
October 6, 2021
The Concrete Vineyard is an enthralling whodunit. It’s very hard to find anything to criticize. A captivating plot that consumes the reader to the final pages. Speculation is a rife as to who committed the murders and the ultimate untangling of the mystery is something no one could guess. Author Cam Lang draws heavily upon his former profession as a town planner, the intricate details of this experience adds authenticity to an already professionally penned murder mystery.
The fact that this is a debut novel adds credence to the fact that Cam is an accomplished novelist with huge potential. I don’t read a lot of murder mysteries but this one might just change that opinion. Thoroughly deserves five stars.
The fact that this is a debut novel adds credence to the fact that Cam is an accomplished novelist with huge potential. I don’t read a lot of murder mysteries but this one might just change that opinion. Thoroughly deserves five stars.
June 27, 2021
Generally, I think this is a great read. It is well written and packed with twists and turns, even though a little too detailed in the urban planning part for my taste.
From the half towards the end, I could not put it away. And the main thing is I could not figure out who did it, it was a great surprise at the end to learn how old crimes can fuel revenge in the least suspected persons.
Rather wonderful educational, with a touch of history mystery book well worth your time.
From the half towards the end, I could not put it away. And the main thing is I could not figure out who did it, it was a great surprise at the end to learn how old crimes can fuel revenge in the least suspected persons.
Rather wonderful educational, with a touch of history mystery book well worth your time.
April 9, 2021
The Concrete Vineyard is a phenomenal story not only of people, murder and mayhem but also of small towns and their history. Parts of the story enraged me but I know what is said is 100% correct which makes it all the sadder. I cannot thank Cam Lang enough for the Complimentary copy of The Concrete Vineyard via Voracious Readers Only. I am eagerly waiting for Cam`s next book.
April 19, 2021
“On matters of principle, stand like a rock.”
The book is quite long but isn't slow-paced.
There weren't any unnecessary scenes, all of them eventually setting the stage to the finale.
It is also very informative, well-researched and obviously written by an expert of the various themes in the novel. It gave us a good lecture on the dynamics of politics, urban design, communities' workings and more.
I did not feel for a lot of the characters in this book. They were quite detached, if that makes sense. There were a lot of people involve, perhaps too many which may have affected my getting to know the personas on a closer level.
The plot was well thought-out. Very rich, complex and insanely imaginative. The author filled the book with mystery and clues which I did not pick up on...very brilliant.
The ending was sudden and exhilarating. Unfortunately it was rather unclear for me. Rather hazy, everything happened in a sort of blur. The way the plot built up to reach this certain point was so-so. It's as if the ending was written in a rush. Fortunately the small ‘epilogue’ after the climax offered a bit of respite and expounded the events surrounding the endgame.
The Concrete Vineyard is a great masterpiece reminding us that thirst for riches is lethal. To both the thirsty and those around him.
The book is quite long but isn't slow-paced.
There weren't any unnecessary scenes, all of them eventually setting the stage to the finale.
It is also very informative, well-researched and obviously written by an expert of the various themes in the novel. It gave us a good lecture on the dynamics of politics, urban design, communities' workings and more.
I did not feel for a lot of the characters in this book. They were quite detached, if that makes sense. There were a lot of people involve, perhaps too many which may have affected my getting to know the personas on a closer level.
The plot was well thought-out. Very rich, complex and insanely imaginative. The author filled the book with mystery and clues which I did not pick up on...very brilliant.
The ending was sudden and exhilarating. Unfortunately it was rather unclear for me. Rather hazy, everything happened in a sort of blur. The way the plot built up to reach this certain point was so-so. It's as if the ending was written in a rush. Fortunately the small ‘epilogue’ after the climax offered a bit of respite and expounded the events surrounding the endgame.
The Concrete Vineyard is a great masterpiece reminding us that thirst for riches is lethal. To both the thirsty and those around him.
June 21, 2022
This is a great murder mystery book that makes you wondering and guessing until the last pages. I found it difficult to put it down, especially as the mystery was gradually becoming more and more obscure. Moreover, the main characters are interesting and likeable. Additionally, the book gives the reader such a vivid description of the area where the action takes place, that I now have the impression I have been there, although have never been to Canada in general. Fully recommended for those who appreciate a good mystery book.
February 23, 2021
2017, Province of Upper Canada (Ontario). 7/1, Canada Day. Edward James Mitchel (91, retired history Dr./Professor) & Seamus O’Reilly went to gander at the NIAGARA’S CROWN JEWEL 25 ACRES OF GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY developmental property.
Seamus was reminiscing his family had owned this land for centuries & Edward was telling him he had to move on & let it go.
7/2, Chief Pat Melville (65) told Detective Bryan Dee (husband, MCU, Brock U; history) a body had been ID as Edward Mitchell.
Bryan knew that name right away.
Detective Regent & Detective Dumfries will help in the investigation.
Benedict Picton III (retired Dr.) & Dave Johnson (retired cosmetic surgeon Dr.) were discussing Edward’s murder & their meeting with the Committee of the Whole.
Niagara-on-the-Lake (NOTL). 1812 Realty Inc. Queen St. Detective Dee & Detective Gage (MCU partner) came to interview Seamus O’Reilly (realtor).
Detective Steve Regent (MCU) was going over the Mitchell Estate crime scene.
Sean Bhullar (2 Ph.Ds., Brockview Estates Winery owner), Dallas Front, Zendaya (17, entrepreneur),
Brittany Front (zoning planner), Gertrude Delater (officer), Peter Platoff (chief building official), Melvin McNab (50+, civil engineer, NOTL’s infrastructure functions) all introduced each other in the Greenbelt Plan board meeting.
Dr. Picton III had disappeared.
He had texted Doug York.
Detective Bryan Dee (Niagara Regional PD MCU) introduced Detective Kris Gage (35+, Niagara
Regional PD MCU partner, urban planner) to Wilson Paffard & Dave Johnson, friends of Benedict on the Canada 150 Committee with him.
Lord Mayor Matteo Rizzol (NOTL) Dave Johnson (hotel mogul, retired cosmetic surgeon Dr.) sat at the front of the room.
There was a long fold-out table set up complete with nameplates & mikes to accommodate the 11 Council members.
Wilson Paffard, Dave Johnson Canada 150 Committee co-chairs, Councilor Natalie Davy, & Carson Cleghorn (SmartFutures Consulting professional planner) were in attendance minus Dr. Benedict Picton III.
A letter from Dr. Edward James Mitchell was read.
Tonight’s agenda items Ravine’s Edge & CherryView.
Will Dr. Benedict Picton III be found alive/well?
Will Edward James Mitchel’s murderer be found brought to justice?
I do not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing free books from publishers & authors. Therefore, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one.
An awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very professionally written crime thriller book. It was quite easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters & facts to keep track of. This could also make another great crime thriller movie, or better yet a mini-TV series. There is no doubt in my mind this is an amazingly easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free Author; Tellwell Talent; PDF; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
Seamus was reminiscing his family had owned this land for centuries & Edward was telling him he had to move on & let it go.
7/2, Chief Pat Melville (65) told Detective Bryan Dee (husband, MCU, Brock U; history) a body had been ID as Edward Mitchell.
Bryan knew that name right away.
Detective Regent & Detective Dumfries will help in the investigation.
Benedict Picton III (retired Dr.) & Dave Johnson (retired cosmetic surgeon Dr.) were discussing Edward’s murder & their meeting with the Committee of the Whole.
Niagara-on-the-Lake (NOTL). 1812 Realty Inc. Queen St. Detective Dee & Detective Gage (MCU partner) came to interview Seamus O’Reilly (realtor).
Detective Steve Regent (MCU) was going over the Mitchell Estate crime scene.
Sean Bhullar (2 Ph.Ds., Brockview Estates Winery owner), Dallas Front, Zendaya (17, entrepreneur),
Brittany Front (zoning planner), Gertrude Delater (officer), Peter Platoff (chief building official), Melvin McNab (50+, civil engineer, NOTL’s infrastructure functions) all introduced each other in the Greenbelt Plan board meeting.
Dr. Picton III had disappeared.
He had texted Doug York.
Detective Bryan Dee (Niagara Regional PD MCU) introduced Detective Kris Gage (35+, Niagara
Regional PD MCU partner, urban planner) to Wilson Paffard & Dave Johnson, friends of Benedict on the Canada 150 Committee with him.
Lord Mayor Matteo Rizzol (NOTL) Dave Johnson (hotel mogul, retired cosmetic surgeon Dr.) sat at the front of the room.
There was a long fold-out table set up complete with nameplates & mikes to accommodate the 11 Council members.
Wilson Paffard, Dave Johnson Canada 150 Committee co-chairs, Councilor Natalie Davy, & Carson Cleghorn (SmartFutures Consulting professional planner) were in attendance minus Dr. Benedict Picton III.
A letter from Dr. Edward James Mitchell was read.
Tonight’s agenda items Ravine’s Edge & CherryView.
Will Dr. Benedict Picton III be found alive/well?
Will Edward James Mitchel’s murderer be found brought to justice?
I do not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing free books from publishers & authors. Therefore, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one.
An awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very professionally written crime thriller book. It was quite easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters & facts to keep track of. This could also make another great crime thriller movie, or better yet a mini-TV series. There is no doubt in my mind this is an amazingly easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free Author; Tellwell Talent; PDF; book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
April 6, 2021
I learnt a lot from this book and it had many twists and turns. To be honest I didnt know what to make of it at first as both the cover and the start confused me. I learnt a lot about Canadian customs and traditions and history as well as sustainability.
I am going to recommend this to a Canadian friend.
I was given an advance copy by the author and voracious readers but the review is entirely my own.
I am going to recommend this to a Canadian friend.
I was given an advance copy by the author and voracious readers but the review is entirely my own.
March 20, 2021
Cam Lang’s debut novel The Concrete Vineyard, is a fantastic, captivating and very well put together murder mystery, that will keep you guessing and surprise you the entire way through!!
Set during Canada’s 150th year celebration, Kris Gage, a Vancouverite, flies back to his hometown of Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario to help his parents pack after they’ve sold their family home. Once there, Kris gets sidetracks in many directions, meeting up with friends from his past and basking in the wine culture of the area. His best friend Bryan; a supporting character in the book is a new and unconfident detective. He is investigating the murder of a the most respected man of the city; 91-year-old retiree Edward Mitchell; the owner of the oldest and largest properties of the area. Bryan needs Kris’ help and together, they use Kris’ brain from his background as an urban planner and Bryan’s brawn, to hunt and expose the murderer.
The descriptions of Niagara-on-the-lake draw you into a story, and the themes and undertones go beyond the page. You become enthralled with the conversations of Old Town, Niagara-on-the-Lake; the political red-tape that come with city politics, development and urban planning. The heart wrenching undertones of financially driven development, and consequences of poorly made decisions made for the sake of ‘urbanizing’ an area. The love a town and the desire to keep heritage and history sacred in an ever-changing world. And in the foreground, you’re caught in the pages wondering; who killed Edward Mitchell?
For me, this was a fantastic read cover to cover. Enticing, addictive and written from the heart. The writing is descriptive and detailed and has great character development that’s so good, it’s like you’re in the story with the characters. Last but not least, the ending was one I did not see coming. 100% recommended to friends and fam!
Set during Canada’s 150th year celebration, Kris Gage, a Vancouverite, flies back to his hometown of Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario to help his parents pack after they’ve sold their family home. Once there, Kris gets sidetracks in many directions, meeting up with friends from his past and basking in the wine culture of the area. His best friend Bryan; a supporting character in the book is a new and unconfident detective. He is investigating the murder of a the most respected man of the city; 91-year-old retiree Edward Mitchell; the owner of the oldest and largest properties of the area. Bryan needs Kris’ help and together, they use Kris’ brain from his background as an urban planner and Bryan’s brawn, to hunt and expose the murderer.
The descriptions of Niagara-on-the-lake draw you into a story, and the themes and undertones go beyond the page. You become enthralled with the conversations of Old Town, Niagara-on-the-Lake; the political red-tape that come with city politics, development and urban planning. The heart wrenching undertones of financially driven development, and consequences of poorly made decisions made for the sake of ‘urbanizing’ an area. The love a town and the desire to keep heritage and history sacred in an ever-changing world. And in the foreground, you’re caught in the pages wondering; who killed Edward Mitchell?
For me, this was a fantastic read cover to cover. Enticing, addictive and written from the heart. The writing is descriptive and detailed and has great character development that’s so good, it’s like you’re in the story with the characters. Last but not least, the ending was one I did not see coming. 100% recommended to friends and fam!
March 27, 2021
The Concrete Vineyard grabbed my attention by being set in Niagara-on-the-Lake. I have been there and was looking forward to reading a book set in a place I very much enjoyed. I found this book interesting and it kept me guessing all the way through. I really enjoyed it.
Thank you to NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for my copy.
Thank you to NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for my copy.
April 24, 2021
Murder mysteries are fairly new to my preferred reading genres, but I’ve been having a blast with them. It’s a lot of fun to play amateur detective alongside a good character, and even more fun to get hit with that perfect unseen twist. When Cam Lang offered me The Concrete Vineyard for review, I was excited to give it a shot! I actually visited the area this is set in pre-Covid, and that made me even more eager to dive right in.
Starting with the characters, which we all know are my favorite part, Lang knocks it out of the park. I had a lot of love for Kris. His witty personality, his love of bicycle rides, and his deep love for his family all wrapped up into a great character. I appreciated that he tackled everything that came his way with grit and grace. Even better though, was the fact that all of the other characters around him weren’t flat. We all know how easy it is for characters to fade into the background. Instead, they were all an excellent match for Kris’ wit, and had unique personalities all their own.
In terms of plot, I enjoyed the journey for the most part. I’ll admit, that there were places during this story that I felt dragged a bit. Some of the paragraphs felt more wordy than they needed to be, which made it so that I had to re-read pages sometimes to get to the meat of the story. I won’t deny that I also skimmed a few chapters that were very dialogue heavy after the first few. They didn’t always feel like they advanced the plot. The good part is that there is definitely not a plot hole in sight. If you are the type of reader who worries about that sort of things, fear not.
It was the plot-twist that really got me, and I am happy to report that the ending threw me for a loop as well. This was one of the few books I’ve read where I wasn’t sure who the killer was at all, and that was a wonderful feeling!
Starting with the characters, which we all know are my favorite part, Lang knocks it out of the park. I had a lot of love for Kris. His witty personality, his love of bicycle rides, and his deep love for his family all wrapped up into a great character. I appreciated that he tackled everything that came his way with grit and grace. Even better though, was the fact that all of the other characters around him weren’t flat. We all know how easy it is for characters to fade into the background. Instead, they were all an excellent match for Kris’ wit, and had unique personalities all their own.
In terms of plot, I enjoyed the journey for the most part. I’ll admit, that there were places during this story that I felt dragged a bit. Some of the paragraphs felt more wordy than they needed to be, which made it so that I had to re-read pages sometimes to get to the meat of the story. I won’t deny that I also skimmed a few chapters that were very dialogue heavy after the first few. They didn’t always feel like they advanced the plot. The good part is that there is definitely not a plot hole in sight. If you are the type of reader who worries about that sort of things, fear not.
It was the plot-twist that really got me, and I am happy to report that the ending threw me for a loop as well. This was one of the few books I’ve read where I wasn’t sure who the killer was at all, and that was a wonderful feeling!
August 28, 2022
I was intrigued by the title of this novel and wanted to find out more. I also liked the setting of Niagara on the Lake as I’ve driven through the town when visiting Canada and thought it very attractive in contrast to Niagara which I thought pretty tacky. And it’s always a nice change to read a murder mystery not set in the US or UK.
It’s a murder mystery that also weaves the negative impact of poor urban planning into its story.
The prologue made me want to read more although I wasn’t clear to begin with whether Edward had been murdered or had committed suicide.
I didn’t suspect who the murderer was, and it was a complete surprise to me. I’m not sure the author gave the reader enough clues beforehand but maybe I just didn’t pick up on them. Many of the characters in the novel are memorable and larger than life.
I liked Bryan the detective who didn’t like his job and wasn’t particularly good at it. I wasn’t that keen on Kristopher Gage his friend to begin with. He came across as rather arrogant and holier than thou to me although I warmed to him as the novel progressed. The author gives some information about him near the end of the novel which I wish I’d known before as it would have made me more sympathetic to the character.
The story is told through multi viewpoints although mainly from Kris’ and Bryan’s perspective. I found it jarring to begin with that Kris’ viewpoint was first person while everyone else’s was third person, but I got used to it before too long.
The author knows the area well, its history and urban planning issues. I thought he occasionally gave us a little too much information, but then I’m not as fascinated by the subject as he clearly is.
In summary, it was an entertaining and informative read. There’s lots of descriptions of wine and if you're a wine drinker like me, I predict you’ll fancy a glass when you finish.
It’s a murder mystery that also weaves the negative impact of poor urban planning into its story.
The prologue made me want to read more although I wasn’t clear to begin with whether Edward had been murdered or had committed suicide.
I didn’t suspect who the murderer was, and it was a complete surprise to me. I’m not sure the author gave the reader enough clues beforehand but maybe I just didn’t pick up on them. Many of the characters in the novel are memorable and larger than life.
I liked Bryan the detective who didn’t like his job and wasn’t particularly good at it. I wasn’t that keen on Kristopher Gage his friend to begin with. He came across as rather arrogant and holier than thou to me although I warmed to him as the novel progressed. The author gives some information about him near the end of the novel which I wish I’d known before as it would have made me more sympathetic to the character.
The story is told through multi viewpoints although mainly from Kris’ and Bryan’s perspective. I found it jarring to begin with that Kris’ viewpoint was first person while everyone else’s was third person, but I got used to it before too long.
The author knows the area well, its history and urban planning issues. I thought he occasionally gave us a little too much information, but then I’m not as fascinated by the subject as he clearly is.
In summary, it was an entertaining and informative read. There’s lots of descriptions of wine and if you're a wine drinker like me, I predict you’ll fancy a glass when you finish.
August 30, 2022
I really enjoyed this book. It was far more than your typical murder mystery, with elements of historical fiction, local politics, urban planning and viniculture. In addition to being engaging and entertaining, I learned a lot! There was a lot going on in this book, with many characters and side plots, but everything tied together well in the end (which I did not see coming).
I found some of the characters a bit goofy at times, but that actually made me like the book more! The writing felt authentic and the author is clearly very passionate about the topics he writes about. I would strongly recommend this book to anyone who likes a good mystery that makes you think and learn along the way.
I found some of the characters a bit goofy at times, but that actually made me like the book more! The writing felt authentic and the author is clearly very passionate about the topics he writes about. I would strongly recommend this book to anyone who likes a good mystery that makes you think and learn along the way.
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