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Sgt. Windflower Mysteries #7.5
Christmas in Newfoundland — Memories and Mysteries
From the author of the award-winning Sgt. Windflower Mysteries comes "Christmas in Newfoundland: Memories and Mysteries," a welcome addition to the Sgt. Windflower family of books.
Christmas in Newfoundland is a special time. In the depths of long winter nights memories are made and stories are told. Of Christmas by candlelight and horse and buggy rides to church. Of shopping on Water Street in St. John’s before malls and the Internet.
In later years, Sgt. Windflower came to work and then to stay in the quiet town of Grand Bank by the Atlantic Ocean where the salt air froze in the wind and the Mounties were welcomed to warm themselves by every fire.
Come and warm yourself by the fire and hear their stories. Some memories and some mysteries. Enjoy some holiday time with Sgt. Windflower and all the familiar characters that you’d come to know and love. Good food, good friends and always another chair at the table.
Christmas in Newfoundland is a special time. In the depths of long winter nights memories are made and stories are told. Of Christmas by candlelight and horse and buggy rides to church. Of shopping on Water Street in St. John’s before malls and the Internet.
In later years, Sgt. Windflower came to work and then to stay in the quiet town of Grand Bank by the Atlantic Ocean where the salt air froze in the wind and the Mounties were welcomed to warm themselves by every fire.
Come and warm yourself by the fire and hear their stories. Some memories and some mysteries. Enjoy some holiday time with Sgt. Windflower and all the familiar characters that you’d come to know and love. Good food, good friends and always another chair at the table.
113 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 19, 2019
37 people are currently reading
65 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
December 12, 2019
Christmas spirit in Newfoundland!
What can I say. Windflower's Christmas stories are as I expected redolent with that Newfoundland spirit of independence, the joy of simple pleasures and communal eccentricities.
Set in both Grand Bank and St. John's I could easily picture the houses and streets described in St. John's, the areas of the town, the snow, the excitement and traditions of Christmas, and the tragedies.
I loved the illustrations provided by the 'young artists from the Visual Arts Program at Canterbury High School in Ottawa.' They aptly depict my memories of the St. John's houses in rows and their colorful exteriors.
I loved the Grand Bank Christmas tales, "where gifts were few and love was plenty. Those were the days when the snow and a homemade sled were sufficient entertainment, the nights were filled with kerosene lamps and laughter, and the twelve days of Christmas were a time for family, friends and roving bands of mummers."
In turn we are treated to Martin's memories of St. John's in the 1960's and Windflower's recollections of events, places, characters around the Grand Bank community.
I was won over by the St. John's moments of shopping in the Arcade, the trip around town by bus to view the lights, the battle in Grand Bank to get Christmas presents delivered in time when the town was snowed in! I was completely turned with the advent of the Christmas present record player and the accompanying vinyls, featuring some of my childhood delights, the "Witch Doctor with a crazy chorus that went “ooo eee, ooh ah ah ting tang, walla walla, bing bang.” Running Bear by Johnny Preston and Tom Dooley by the Kingston Trio (I drove my parents crazy singing that off key around the house fully convinced I was to be the next great folk singer. Not!)
Told with love and generosity, I was fully immersed and loving every moment of these literary gems from Martin. And of course to my mind, Windflower should be a Canadian national treasure!
A BooksGoSocial ARC via NetGalley
What can I say. Windflower's Christmas stories are as I expected redolent with that Newfoundland spirit of independence, the joy of simple pleasures and communal eccentricities.
Set in both Grand Bank and St. John's I could easily picture the houses and streets described in St. John's, the areas of the town, the snow, the excitement and traditions of Christmas, and the tragedies.
I loved the illustrations provided by the 'young artists from the Visual Arts Program at Canterbury High School in Ottawa.' They aptly depict my memories of the St. John's houses in rows and their colorful exteriors.
I loved the Grand Bank Christmas tales, "where gifts were few and love was plenty. Those were the days when the snow and a homemade sled were sufficient entertainment, the nights were filled with kerosene lamps and laughter, and the twelve days of Christmas were a time for family, friends and roving bands of mummers."
In turn we are treated to Martin's memories of St. John's in the 1960's and Windflower's recollections of events, places, characters around the Grand Bank community.
I was won over by the St. John's moments of shopping in the Arcade, the trip around town by bus to view the lights, the battle in Grand Bank to get Christmas presents delivered in time when the town was snowed in! I was completely turned with the advent of the Christmas present record player and the accompanying vinyls, featuring some of my childhood delights, the "Witch Doctor with a crazy chorus that went “ooo eee, ooh ah ah ting tang, walla walla, bing bang.” Running Bear by Johnny Preston and Tom Dooley by the Kingston Trio (I drove my parents crazy singing that off key around the house fully convinced I was to be the next great folk singer. Not!)
Told with love and generosity, I was fully immersed and loving every moment of these literary gems from Martin. And of course to my mind, Windflower should be a Canadian national treasure!
A BooksGoSocial ARC via NetGalley
October 12, 2019
For someone whose family hails from Newfoundland and have lived on "The Rock" for generations upon generations, this novel was so beautifully nostalgic that I found myself smiling throughout the entire time I was reading it. The work is wonderful, warm, and charming as we walk with the author down memory lane to simpler times in one of the most beautiful provinces in Canada. I loved reading about the traditional Newfoundland celebrations and I was immediately transported to St. John's, walking alongside the gorgeous buildings that exude history. The work is just one big warm hug that will bring back fond memories to every reader, regardless of where they hail from. You will also fall in love with the cast of characters and will be inspired to take a trip to Newfoundland yourself to experience the warmth of the locals, the magic of Christmas, and the mouth-watering, to-die-for home cooking.
A must-read for anyone looking for a cozy novel or in the mood for times gone by, b'ye.
A must-read for anyone looking for a cozy novel or in the mood for times gone by, b'ye.
October 25, 2019
Sgt. Windflower remembers Christmases past in this volume. It seemed rather disjointed to me. The author overused "be" verbs, and no editor assisted him in cleaning up the sloppy and dull writing. This was my first and probably last venture into this series. The setting intrigued me, but its brevity is the only reason I did not abandon the read. I received an electronic copy through NetGalley with the expectation of an honest review.
December 22, 2022
Christmas in Newfoundland is a delightfully nostalgic collection of stories portraying past Christmases, set in Grand Bank and St John’s and including some of the author’s own memories from childhood.
If you’re familiar with the books featuring RCMP Sgt Winston Windflower you’ll recognise the characters featured, and if not there are enough snippets of information added so you don’t feel lost and I liked the fact some of the characters are fleshed out a little more as well.
Windflower, a native Cree brought up in Northern Alberta, remembers that Christmas Eve was his favourite time when he was a child, with its feeling of expectation, putting up the lights and going into woods afterwards with his grandfather to leave food for the animal and birds.
I enjoyed reading about the traditions, one of which was calling the night before Christmas Eve, Tibb’s Eve. It marked the beginning of the season and the first night the locals thought it appropriate to have a Christmas drink.
The magic of Christmas and the atmosphere weaves its way through the pages, Christmas kindnesses, Windflower’s Christmases with his wife and two children, the Christmas Herb Stoodley came to the rescue…a lovely way to get into the spirit of the season.
Huge thanks to Mike Martin for my review copy.
If you’re familiar with the books featuring RCMP Sgt Winston Windflower you’ll recognise the characters featured, and if not there are enough snippets of information added so you don’t feel lost and I liked the fact some of the characters are fleshed out a little more as well.
Windflower, a native Cree brought up in Northern Alberta, remembers that Christmas Eve was his favourite time when he was a child, with its feeling of expectation, putting up the lights and going into woods afterwards with his grandfather to leave food for the animal and birds.
I enjoyed reading about the traditions, one of which was calling the night before Christmas Eve, Tibb’s Eve. It marked the beginning of the season and the first night the locals thought it appropriate to have a Christmas drink.
The magic of Christmas and the atmosphere weaves its way through the pages, Christmas kindnesses, Windflower’s Christmases with his wife and two children, the Christmas Herb Stoodley came to the rescue…a lovely way to get into the spirit of the season.
Huge thanks to Mike Martin for my review copy.
November 29, 2025
Christmas in Newfoundland is a short anthology of short stories, some recollections of the author's life and some stories about his characters from the Sgt. Windflower series. All are set in Newfoundland at Christmas time, and share stories set in the past and present. I enjoyed Mike Martin's recollections from his youth. His family were not well off, so their celebrations and traditions were simple, yet fun. The stories from the Windflower characters usually involve a hardship of some kind, such as roads closed just before Christmas, and RCMP recovering from an injury, and working on the holidays. This was an enjoyable read, and of course very realistic. I'm sure those from Newfoundland would have been able to relate well to this book.
November 29, 2024
This is a charming collection of Newfoundland Christmas stories. Some are tales of the author's 1960's childhood in St. John's, and some feature the characters of the author's popular Sergeant Windflower mystery series. They tell of simpler times, and of some of the traditions unique to Newfoundland Christmases. I don't think this book would appeal to readers unfamiliar with the mystery series, but for me it was pure gold, and very therapeutic for me as I head into the Christmas season after a month of stress and bereavement.
August 29, 2019
Lovely, Lovely Read.
Oh my - this really is the icing on the cake (or snowy Christmases in Newfoundland) for the Sgt. Windflower Mysteries. If you've not read any, then start at the beginning, they're really good reads.
I adored reading this collection of stories depicting St Johns and Grand Bank over Christmas periods past and present.
Mike Martin paints pictures and creates atmosphere so clearly with his writing and elicits some rather emotional responses to the love and kindnesses shown at this particular time of year through his wonderful characters and memories. Goodness - when Winston saves Christmas - well, have tissues nearby.
You are given more background and family information on the past lives of his characters and feel you know them even better, through some sadness and a lot of joy and surprises. In fact I'm pretty sure that if I travelled to Grand Bank I'd bump into them all and take great delight in telling them just how much I know about their lives over a coffee in the Mug-Up! They are all such NICE people.
This book is nostalgic (for those of us over a certain age, and who don't happen to live in Newfoundland) of white Christmases, real Christmas trees and multi-coloured lights, traditions, and the joy of sharing with family and friends where the act of giving is an act of love - however rich or poor you may be.
It's a lovely read and sated my cravings for more of Winston Windflower until his new adventure is released in October.
Only criticism – which it had been longer.
Oh my - this really is the icing on the cake (or snowy Christmases in Newfoundland) for the Sgt. Windflower Mysteries. If you've not read any, then start at the beginning, they're really good reads.
I adored reading this collection of stories depicting St Johns and Grand Bank over Christmas periods past and present.
Mike Martin paints pictures and creates atmosphere so clearly with his writing and elicits some rather emotional responses to the love and kindnesses shown at this particular time of year through his wonderful characters and memories. Goodness - when Winston saves Christmas - well, have tissues nearby.
You are given more background and family information on the past lives of his characters and feel you know them even better, through some sadness and a lot of joy and surprises. In fact I'm pretty sure that if I travelled to Grand Bank I'd bump into them all and take great delight in telling them just how much I know about their lives over a coffee in the Mug-Up! They are all such NICE people.
This book is nostalgic (for those of us over a certain age, and who don't happen to live in Newfoundland) of white Christmases, real Christmas trees and multi-coloured lights, traditions, and the joy of sharing with family and friends where the act of giving is an act of love - however rich or poor you may be.
It's a lovely read and sated my cravings for more of Winston Windflower until his new adventure is released in October.
Only criticism – which it had been longer.
October 26, 2019
Seasons Greetings! If the most wonderful time of the year is getting to be too hectic and stressful for you, then let this charming book transport you 50 years back to Christmas in Grand Banks, Newfoundland.
At Christmas time, Grand Banks was either fogbound, snowbound, or both. In addition to plenty of weather, there was also an abundance of love and goodwill. This series of nostalgic short stories will transport you to a simpler time. You will read about the special “first times” of Christmas, the first time a young boy rides the bus with his family to see the Christmas lights around town, the first time he stays up to see the visit of the mummers. I also enjoyed the stories of the first Christmas in a new house, the first with a baby brother, and the first Christmas with a wife and adorable young daughter.
One of the most heart-warming stories was about the first time it seemed that Christmas might be postponed. Each story is simple and calm, a gem that sparkles with the Christmas blessings of love and hope. “He prayed for those who might be alone or troubled this Christmas morning…he reminded himself to be grateful for all he had received and the love that this place held in his heart.” Charming illustrations accompany each story, too.
What a delightful book to read in a quiet moment by yourself or to read aloud with your family. Many thanks to the author Mike Martin for a sweet selection of stories, and to NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for a digital review copy. This is my honest review.
At Christmas time, Grand Banks was either fogbound, snowbound, or both. In addition to plenty of weather, there was also an abundance of love and goodwill. This series of nostalgic short stories will transport you to a simpler time. You will read about the special “first times” of Christmas, the first time a young boy rides the bus with his family to see the Christmas lights around town, the first time he stays up to see the visit of the mummers. I also enjoyed the stories of the first Christmas in a new house, the first with a baby brother, and the first Christmas with a wife and adorable young daughter.
One of the most heart-warming stories was about the first time it seemed that Christmas might be postponed. Each story is simple and calm, a gem that sparkles with the Christmas blessings of love and hope. “He prayed for those who might be alone or troubled this Christmas morning…he reminded himself to be grateful for all he had received and the love that this place held in his heart.” Charming illustrations accompany each story, too.
What a delightful book to read in a quiet moment by yourself or to read aloud with your family. Many thanks to the author Mike Martin for a sweet selection of stories, and to NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for a digital review copy. This is my honest review.
November 7, 2019
See complete review at the following link:
https://www.thepacket.ca/lifestyles/r...
https://www.thepacket.ca/lifestyles/r...
January 3, 2023
PERHAPS YOUR NEW CHRISTMAS TRADITION
CHRISTMAS IN NEWFOUNDLAND — MEMORIES AND MYSTERIES by Mike Martin is a charming book filled with a succession of vignettes about the approach of the blessed holiday of Christmas. Culminating with a tale concerning the exchanging of gifts, we learn the difference between the cost of a present and what makes one priceless. The stories are related in an easy, relaxed, humble, and conversational way. The subjects range from blessings offered to ceremonial giving within families to problem solving as the past mingles with the present and creates our future. The book makes clear that our future is shaped by our thoughts, deeds, and actions, and that we alone are responsible for passing the torch of goodness and mercy to the next generation in keeping tradition alive.
The countdown to the magic day is used as a backdrop to all that unfolds as each chapter covers a different aspect of what transpires to individuals and communities during the month of December. It’s this approach that gives us to insight in understanding how traditions were formed, and how they’re influenced by each generation. Because of the scope, and because of the wisdom shared, I can readily see this book being used as an advent calendar. A parent or grandparent could gather the family around the Christmas tree and read passages from this book to children and other members of their family. It would be interesting to hear the thoughts as each individual shares what message they received from the story told. I can only think in getting to know the responses inside each heart that a closer bond would be formed because of the lessons inherent within this book’s pages.
What lessons? Lessons that extend from the importance of blessing all that surrounds and sustains us to the handling of tragedies in a meaning-of-Christmas type of way. One story in particular stands out as concerns problem-solving with an emphasis on compassion. The story centers on a little girl who is heartbroken over losing a stuffed puffin. The bird was a Christmas present that she adored. While it would have been tempting for the parents to dismiss the child’s grief as unimportant, the sorrow was honored by taking a larger view. The four-year-old had lost enough in her short lifetime, and even if she hadn’t, those were her feelings … feelings as seen through a child’s eyes. So instead of taking a “she’ll get over it” response, a plan was put in place for her to get her puffin back … one that’s filled with the Christmas spirit.
I’m giving the book five stars and would recommend it to those who steep themselves in the miracle of Christmas … to those that cloak themselves in the generosity the holiday affords … and to those that celebrate every second of joy that the birth in the manger brought to those who believe.
CHRISTMAS IN NEWFOUNDLAND — MEMORIES AND MYSTERIES by Mike Martin is a charming book filled with a succession of vignettes about the approach of the blessed holiday of Christmas. Culminating with a tale concerning the exchanging of gifts, we learn the difference between the cost of a present and what makes one priceless. The stories are related in an easy, relaxed, humble, and conversational way. The subjects range from blessings offered to ceremonial giving within families to problem solving as the past mingles with the present and creates our future. The book makes clear that our future is shaped by our thoughts, deeds, and actions, and that we alone are responsible for passing the torch of goodness and mercy to the next generation in keeping tradition alive.
The countdown to the magic day is used as a backdrop to all that unfolds as each chapter covers a different aspect of what transpires to individuals and communities during the month of December. It’s this approach that gives us to insight in understanding how traditions were formed, and how they’re influenced by each generation. Because of the scope, and because of the wisdom shared, I can readily see this book being used as an advent calendar. A parent or grandparent could gather the family around the Christmas tree and read passages from this book to children and other members of their family. It would be interesting to hear the thoughts as each individual shares what message they received from the story told. I can only think in getting to know the responses inside each heart that a closer bond would be formed because of the lessons inherent within this book’s pages.
What lessons? Lessons that extend from the importance of blessing all that surrounds and sustains us to the handling of tragedies in a meaning-of-Christmas type of way. One story in particular stands out as concerns problem-solving with an emphasis on compassion. The story centers on a little girl who is heartbroken over losing a stuffed puffin. The bird was a Christmas present that she adored. While it would have been tempting for the parents to dismiss the child’s grief as unimportant, the sorrow was honored by taking a larger view. The four-year-old had lost enough in her short lifetime, and even if she hadn’t, those were her feelings … feelings as seen through a child’s eyes. So instead of taking a “she’ll get over it” response, a plan was put in place for her to get her puffin back … one that’s filled with the Christmas spirit.
I’m giving the book five stars and would recommend it to those who steep themselves in the miracle of Christmas … to those that cloak themselves in the generosity the holiday affords … and to those that celebrate every second of joy that the birth in the manger brought to those who believe.
June 7, 2020
https://openbooksociety.com/article/c...
Title: Christmas in Newfoundland – Memories and Mysteries
Series: A Sgt. Windflower Mystery
By: Mike Martin
ISBN: 1988437253 (ISBN13: 9781988437255)
Author’s Website: https://sgtwindflowermysteries.com/
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Andra
Summary:
Christmas in Newfoundland is a special time. In the depths of long winter nights memories are made and stories are told. Of Christmas by candlelight and horse and buggy rides to church. Of shopping on Water Street in St. John’s before malls and the Internet. In simpler times an orange and a few Christmas chocolates along with one special toy made every child’s eyes widen in delight.
In later years Sgt. Windflower came to work and then to stay in the quiet town of Grand Bank by the Atlantic Ocean where the salt air froze in the wind and the Mounties were welcomed to warm themselves by every fire. As everyone else slept through the night they kept the community safe and unraveled the mysteries that could only come from a special Christmas in Newfoundland.
Come and warm yourself by the fire and hear their stories. Some memories and some mysteries. Enjoy some holiday time with Sgt. Windflower and all the familiar characters that you’ve come to know and love. Good food, good friends and always another chair at the table. (Goodreads)
Review:
Christmas in Newfoundland is the first book by Mike Martin that I have read. Now that I have finished this novella – I ask myself why? I try and support local authors and I have heard of Mike Martin previously but had never picked up a book of his. Well I am glad that I did.
Christmas in Newfoundland reads as a series of one chapter short stories. Stories of long ago Christmas time in Newfoundland. Both from the perspective of the adult penning the stories and his recollections of when he was a young boy.
I was won over by the chapter where the family travelled around town by bus to see the Christmas lights. I really enjoyed the graphics speckled throughout the book. Very quaint. They were provided by students in the visual arts program from Canterbury High School in Ottawa.
A bit more editing (or review by the publisher) might have added to the professional vibe of the storytelling as sloppy grammar and editing is a pet peeve of mine. While I usually find novella’s unsatisfying I must say that this is not the case this time. I fully enjoyed the story and it has given me an appetite to go and read more books in the Sgt. Wildflower Mystery series.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
Title: Christmas in Newfoundland – Memories and Mysteries
Series: A Sgt. Windflower Mystery
By: Mike Martin
ISBN: 1988437253 (ISBN13: 9781988437255)
Author’s Website: https://sgtwindflowermysteries.com/
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Andra
Summary:
Christmas in Newfoundland is a special time. In the depths of long winter nights memories are made and stories are told. Of Christmas by candlelight and horse and buggy rides to church. Of shopping on Water Street in St. John’s before malls and the Internet. In simpler times an orange and a few Christmas chocolates along with one special toy made every child’s eyes widen in delight.
In later years Sgt. Windflower came to work and then to stay in the quiet town of Grand Bank by the Atlantic Ocean where the salt air froze in the wind and the Mounties were welcomed to warm themselves by every fire. As everyone else slept through the night they kept the community safe and unraveled the mysteries that could only come from a special Christmas in Newfoundland.
Come and warm yourself by the fire and hear their stories. Some memories and some mysteries. Enjoy some holiday time with Sgt. Windflower and all the familiar characters that you’ve come to know and love. Good food, good friends and always another chair at the table. (Goodreads)
Review:
Christmas in Newfoundland is the first book by Mike Martin that I have read. Now that I have finished this novella – I ask myself why? I try and support local authors and I have heard of Mike Martin previously but had never picked up a book of his. Well I am glad that I did.
Christmas in Newfoundland reads as a series of one chapter short stories. Stories of long ago Christmas time in Newfoundland. Both from the perspective of the adult penning the stories and his recollections of when he was a young boy.
I was won over by the chapter where the family travelled around town by bus to see the Christmas lights. I really enjoyed the graphics speckled throughout the book. Very quaint. They were provided by students in the visual arts program from Canterbury High School in Ottawa.
A bit more editing (or review by the publisher) might have added to the professional vibe of the storytelling as sloppy grammar and editing is a pet peeve of mine. While I usually find novella’s unsatisfying I must say that this is not the case this time. I fully enjoyed the story and it has given me an appetite to go and read more books in the Sgt. Wildflower Mystery series.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
December 19, 2020
Christmas in Newfoundland by Mike Martin is a nice and quick holiday read. It consists of 10 short stories that have to do with Christmas, it could be a memory of family traditions from when the author was a child or a story centered around his Sgt. Windflower characters. And in between the stories you will find a picture which was drawn by a member of the Visual Arts Program at Canterbury High School in Ottawa. The pictures really give life to the stories.
There were 2 stories that stuck out to me and stayed with me. The first story that I really related to was Christmas Lights. I really related to that story because I truly love seeing all the different lights and displayed around my hometown. We always drive around town a few times and have one street in particular that every house on it is decorated in full. We also have a Christmas tree that has a lot of colorful selections so that we are constantly changing the colors and settings. I loved reading about the authors recollection of Christmas lights and the importance and impact they have on him. The second story that I thoroughly loved was the one immediately following Christmas Lights, Tizzard's Christmas Dream. I am a huge fan of the Sgt. Windflower Mysteries and love the characters in this series, especially Tizzard. He has developed a special place in my heart and to read about the impact the holiday season and the people close to him had on him after he experienced a tramatic accident, really spoke to me. Even though he is not a real person, Martin gave him life in that story.
Christmas in Newfoundland can be read quickly or slowly....however you chose to read it. I highly recommend reading it and getting lost in the Christmas spirit. Martin will have you reminising about some of your old family traditions and may even give you ideas of new things to try and make new in your life. Whatever reason you pick up this book to read, I hope that it makes you smile and appreciate the little things as well as the big things in your life.
There were 2 stories that stuck out to me and stayed with me. The first story that I really related to was Christmas Lights. I really related to that story because I truly love seeing all the different lights and displayed around my hometown. We always drive around town a few times and have one street in particular that every house on it is decorated in full. We also have a Christmas tree that has a lot of colorful selections so that we are constantly changing the colors and settings. I loved reading about the authors recollection of Christmas lights and the importance and impact they have on him. The second story that I thoroughly loved was the one immediately following Christmas Lights, Tizzard's Christmas Dream. I am a huge fan of the Sgt. Windflower Mysteries and love the characters in this series, especially Tizzard. He has developed a special place in my heart and to read about the impact the holiday season and the people close to him had on him after he experienced a tramatic accident, really spoke to me. Even though he is not a real person, Martin gave him life in that story.
Christmas in Newfoundland can be read quickly or slowly....however you chose to read it. I highly recommend reading it and getting lost in the Christmas spirit. Martin will have you reminising about some of your old family traditions and may even give you ideas of new things to try and make new in your life. Whatever reason you pick up this book to read, I hope that it makes you smile and appreciate the little things as well as the big things in your life.
September 30, 2022
151 pages
5 stars
What a delightful novella.
Winston and Sheila are celebrating their first Christmas together in Newfoundland. It is time to make their own traditions. Memories abound with Christmasses past.
Time passes, as do more delightful Christmas celebrations.
I really liked the story about the Christmas lights. That is my favorite aspect of the season. I love seeing the colored lights and the various displays people put up. I especially like the displays that change colors. I feel almost childlike again.
I enjoyed this book very much and will read it again. It is so uplifting. I was glad that Winston included his Cree rituals. I always enjoy that part of the book. L love to learn about other cultures.
I want to thank Mr. Martin for forwarding a copy of this book to me so that I may read, enjoy and review it. The opinions expressed in this review are solely my own.
5 stars
What a delightful novella.
Winston and Sheila are celebrating their first Christmas together in Newfoundland. It is time to make their own traditions. Memories abound with Christmasses past.
Time passes, as do more delightful Christmas celebrations.
I really liked the story about the Christmas lights. That is my favorite aspect of the season. I love seeing the colored lights and the various displays people put up. I especially like the displays that change colors. I feel almost childlike again.
I enjoyed this book very much and will read it again. It is so uplifting. I was glad that Winston included his Cree rituals. I always enjoy that part of the book. L love to learn about other cultures.
I want to thank Mr. Martin for forwarding a copy of this book to me so that I may read, enjoy and review it. The opinions expressed in this review are solely my own.
March 13, 2020
This is a sweet and touching collection of short stories about Christmas in Newfoundland, past and present. They all illustrate the meaning of Christmas in one way or another and centre around Sergeant Windflower of the Mounties. I can’t help thinking of him as the local Santa Claus.
The cold and wintry settings of the stories contrasts with their warm, rich atmosphere provided by the local community. This is a book to curl up with during the run-up to Christmas, or any time when you want to experience a little bit of Christmas magic.
The author has a very easy and approachable style that’s delightful and rewarding to read. The whole book is gentle and uplifting, and I really enjoyed it.
The cold and wintry settings of the stories contrasts with their warm, rich atmosphere provided by the local community. This is a book to curl up with during the run-up to Christmas, or any time when you want to experience a little bit of Christmas magic.
The author has a very easy and approachable style that’s delightful and rewarding to read. The whole book is gentle and uplifting, and I really enjoyed it.
September 27, 2022
This book, as well as all the others by Mike Martin, is like going home to a familiar and comfortable place with kind, caring people in a beautiful setting. Newfoundland feels like home each time I pick up a book by this talented author.
The characters in this lovely book about Christmas-time traditions, family life and happy times is full of feel-good celebrations with family and friends. It makes the reader become nostalgic about one’s own gatherings at Christmas, the love that is shared, the good food and good times that we cherish and hold close to our hearts.
This was an enjoyable, heartfelt read that took me back to my childhood and refreshed precious memories of days long past. It made me long for those days again.
The characters in this lovely book about Christmas-time traditions, family life and happy times is full of feel-good celebrations with family and friends. It makes the reader become nostalgic about one’s own gatherings at Christmas, the love that is shared, the good food and good times that we cherish and hold close to our hearts.
This was an enjoyable, heartfelt read that took me back to my childhood and refreshed precious memories of days long past. It made me long for those days again.
January 19, 2021
A nice way to get to know the people of Grand Banks, Newfoundland. A series of Christmas essays that make you feel like you are visiting the family and friends for the holiday.
February 23, 2022
Comforting read with likeable characters. Looking forward to reading another Sgt. Wildflower book.
January 6, 2024
Interesting read.
Very nice. Warm and funny. Would recommend this book. On to the next one in this series and others by Martin
Very nice. Warm and funny. Would recommend this book. On to the next one in this series and others by Martin
December 28, 2024
A cosy read. I felt like was was visiting dear friends during the holidays.
December 5, 2025
Good Read
Love it and can’t wait to start Book 2.
I recomend this book to everyone.
Enjoy this book and pass it on.
Love it and can’t wait to start Book 2.
I recomend this book to everyone.
Enjoy this book and pass it on.
December 5, 2025
enjoyable collection of Christmas stories
I thoroughly enjoyed this collection of Christmas stories. I appreciated the characters that recurred and the authors personal stories as well. I think I will look for more RCMP Wildflower stories
I thoroughly enjoyed this collection of Christmas stories. I appreciated the characters that recurred and the authors personal stories as well. I think I will look for more RCMP Wildflower stories
February 6, 2020
The visual loveliness of this book made me love it. I could smell the salt air and feel the bitter cold. The shopping,, the drives around town, the love and simplicity. This beautiful nostalgic book is one to be savored page by page. Loved it!
January 31, 2020
This is basically a series of short stories. Each chapter can be read as a stand alone tale. This is part of the Sgt. Windflower Mystery series set in Canada. Sgt. Windflower is a little older so his memories of St. Johns have buggy rides to church and village wide potluck dinners. As a member of the Mounties he also has some modern stories of saving Christmas with snow mobiles and multi town efforts. I enjoy this series and it was fun seeing some of the regular characters in the Christmas setting. I received a copy of this ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
August 11, 2020
https://openbooksociety.com/article/c...
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Andra
hristmas in Newfoundland is the first book by Mike Martin that I have read. Now that I have finished this novella – I ask myself why? I try and support local authors and I have heard of Mike Martin previously but had never picked up a book of his. Well I am glad that I did.
Christmas in Newfoundland reads as a series of one chapter short stories. Stories of long ago Christmas time in Newfoundland. Both from the perspective of the adult penning the stories and his recollections of when he was a young boy.
I was won over by the chapter where the family travelled around town by bus to see the Christmas lights. I really enjoyed the graphics speckled throughout the book. Very quaint. They were provided by students in the visual arts program from Canterbury High School in Ottawa.
A bit more editing (or review by the publisher) might have added to the professional vibe of the storytelling as sloppy grammar and editing is a pet peeve of mine. While I usually find novella’s unsatisfying I must say that this is not the case this time. I fully enjoyed the story and it has given me an appetite to go and read more books in the Sgt. Wildflower Mystery series.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Andra
hristmas in Newfoundland is the first book by Mike Martin that I have read. Now that I have finished this novella – I ask myself why? I try and support local authors and I have heard of Mike Martin previously but had never picked up a book of his. Well I am glad that I did.
Christmas in Newfoundland reads as a series of one chapter short stories. Stories of long ago Christmas time in Newfoundland. Both from the perspective of the adult penning the stories and his recollections of when he was a young boy.
I was won over by the chapter where the family travelled around town by bus to see the Christmas lights. I really enjoyed the graphics speckled throughout the book. Very quaint. They were provided by students in the visual arts program from Canterbury High School in Ottawa.
A bit more editing (or review by the publisher) might have added to the professional vibe of the storytelling as sloppy grammar and editing is a pet peeve of mine. While I usually find novella’s unsatisfying I must say that this is not the case this time. I fully enjoyed the story and it has given me an appetite to go and read more books in the Sgt. Wildflower Mystery series.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
November 27, 2019
This is a great book to read at this time of year. It’s one that will get you eager to celebrate the holidays. When thinking about the holidays, normally we think about our own family traditions and not necessarily how others may observe their heritage.
The author invites us to participate with the residents of Newfoundland. He made it very easy to feel the cold on my face and the snowflakes landing on my nose. I could also picture myself walking around the town and looking through the storefronts. It was not hard to picture the residents walking past me reminiscing about days gone by or talking about what they had left to do before the holidays arrive.
I’ve always been happy spending mine with friends and family. But this author has me wanting to pack my bags and immerse myself into his world. I would have to plan correctly so that instead of the twelve days of Christmas, it would be ten. So before I go out exploring, I would read one of his short stories. I would be curious as to who would fit into which story. Then disappointment would set in because my time would be over way too soon. The good news is that one of the characters that we get introduced to has his own series so I might have to find a way to extend my stay – what a hardship.
I was not compensated nor was I required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
The author invites us to participate with the residents of Newfoundland. He made it very easy to feel the cold on my face and the snowflakes landing on my nose. I could also picture myself walking around the town and looking through the storefronts. It was not hard to picture the residents walking past me reminiscing about days gone by or talking about what they had left to do before the holidays arrive.
I’ve always been happy spending mine with friends and family. But this author has me wanting to pack my bags and immerse myself into his world. I would have to plan correctly so that instead of the twelve days of Christmas, it would be ten. So before I go out exploring, I would read one of his short stories. I would be curious as to who would fit into which story. Then disappointment would set in because my time would be over way too soon. The good news is that one of the characters that we get introduced to has his own series so I might have to find a way to extend my stay – what a hardship.
I was not compensated nor was I required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
September 21, 2019
If you ever wanted to experience Christmas in a different place and/or time, this set of short stories set in Newfoundland around the area of Grand Banks and St. John's will provide both. Some of the short stories take place in the past while others are in the present. Its stories touch on the traditions of the places and are definitely evocative of something completely different. Each story shows what Christmas meant or means to a particular person at a particular time. These are not grand stories; rather, they are quite small in scope, a little slice of life of a particular Christmas for a particular person. I've heard or read somewhere that novellas and novels are about character while short stories are about an idea. The idea of these short stories is the meaning of Christmas in relatively small towns where life is mostly uncomplicated and people find strength in traditions and in each other. I found the collection to be gently heartwarming Each story is short, so could be read over a work break or a lunch period. Travel the Newfoundland for Christmas without leaving your couch.
I received a free copy of this book but that did not affect my review.
I received a free copy of this book but that did not affect my review.
September 27, 2019
This is a sweet, slow stroll through Christmases past in Grand Bank, Newfoundland, with a mix of stories involving Sgt. Winston Windflower and his friends and family, interspersed with what I presume are the author’s own memories of long-ago Christmases. It provides a good introduction to Sgt. Windflower, a Cree Indian member of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, his co-workers, his love, Sheila Hillier, and the regulars that make appearances in the Sgt. Windflower Mysteries. (An excellent series, by the way.) It also provides a lovely slice of life view of growing up in Newfoundland. Seeing the holidays through the eyes of a young boy made me long for that sort of life.
This book can be read in snippets here and there (although I got so caught up in the stories, I read it in one sitting, and I was sad when it was over). It made me feel warm and nostalgic, and reinforced my desire to travel to Newfoundland. It would make a great stocking stuffer for a Windflower fan, or a nice gift for someone who appreciates good writing and excellent story-telling skills. Truly a case of “Good food, good friends, and always another chair at the table.”
This book can be read in snippets here and there (although I got so caught up in the stories, I read it in one sitting, and I was sad when it was over). It made me feel warm and nostalgic, and reinforced my desire to travel to Newfoundland. It would make a great stocking stuffer for a Windflower fan, or a nice gift for someone who appreciates good writing and excellent story-telling skills. Truly a case of “Good food, good friends, and always another chair at the table.”
November 10, 2019
"A Coke was a dime, a bag of chips five cents..."
Can you imagine heading down to the nearest convenience store and paying those prices? Mike Martin takes us way back to a time when Christmas was quite different but just as surreal and exciting as it is today.
I enjoyed reading the short Christmas stories in his collection of Christmas in Newfoundland. I loved reading the simpleness and cheer and of actually going to bed and dreaming of Santa coming. Alot of kids today have lost that magic and expect so much whereas children back in those days were happy to get a dolly, a toy truck, or even just a piece of fruit and a couple pieces of candy in their "real stockings" that were "actually" hung by the fireplace to dry!
It was a time of joy and hushed secrets. A time of family gatherings and sledding in lieu of video games. A time to cozy up by the fireplace and watch Christmas shows or bedtime stories with your family.
It was just so nice having a piece of yesteryear to look back at.
*I was given a copy of this book for an honest review.
Can you imagine heading down to the nearest convenience store and paying those prices? Mike Martin takes us way back to a time when Christmas was quite different but just as surreal and exciting as it is today.
I enjoyed reading the short Christmas stories in his collection of Christmas in Newfoundland. I loved reading the simpleness and cheer and of actually going to bed and dreaming of Santa coming. Alot of kids today have lost that magic and expect so much whereas children back in those days were happy to get a dolly, a toy truck, or even just a piece of fruit and a couple pieces of candy in their "real stockings" that were "actually" hung by the fireplace to dry!
It was a time of joy and hushed secrets. A time of family gatherings and sledding in lieu of video games. A time to cozy up by the fireplace and watch Christmas shows or bedtime stories with your family.
It was just so nice having a piece of yesteryear to look back at.
*I was given a copy of this book for an honest review.
September 18, 2019
This cozy, heartwarming collection of 11 stories in the award-winning The Sgt. Windflower Mysteries series provides glimpses into fond memories and delightful mysteries of Sgt. Windflower and other familiar characters from the series.
“A Brother for Christmas” is a heartwarming tale of an older brother’s realization of love and acceptance while in “Tizzard’s Christmas,” a story set against an old family tragedy, Eddie Tizzard finds both hope and love while struggling with his temporary disability. In “The Christmas Surprise,” Martin takes readers to a Christmas shopping expedition in the 1960s small town of St. John. In “The Christmas Miracle,” miraculous news of a baby’s birth begins the Christmas morning for Windflower and Sheila.
With a crisp prose, Martin beautifully explores family bonds, love, friendship, and community spirt along with the glorious Christmas season of Newfoundland, making the book an essential holiday read.
A must read holiday collection!
“A Brother for Christmas” is a heartwarming tale of an older brother’s realization of love and acceptance while in “Tizzard’s Christmas,” a story set against an old family tragedy, Eddie Tizzard finds both hope and love while struggling with his temporary disability. In “The Christmas Surprise,” Martin takes readers to a Christmas shopping expedition in the 1960s small town of St. John. In “The Christmas Miracle,” miraculous news of a baby’s birth begins the Christmas morning for Windflower and Sheila.
With a crisp prose, Martin beautifully explores family bonds, love, friendship, and community spirt along with the glorious Christmas season of Newfoundland, making the book an essential holiday read.
A must read holiday collection!
December 11, 2019
Do you love small town reads with a little mystery thrown in? You just might enjoy this one. The bonus is its a story that brings you to Christmas of the past, complete with mystery that keeps you guessing. I haven't read any of the other Sgt. Windflower books but it's totally fine, you won't feel out of step, but if you have read others, I think you're going to enjoy getting a new look into what I think are the usual characters.
The book has an interesting writing style, it feels more like a story someone is telling you over an afternoon rather than a polished story. I struggled a little with that but I think it was more of a preference issue than a skill issue on the author's part. The best part of the book is the nostalgia of it, and I think anyone who reads this will be left remembering their firsts of their own. The entire book is made up of several short stories, each one a sweet memory that will leave you smiling.
Overall, this was a pretty cute book.
The book has an interesting writing style, it feels more like a story someone is telling you over an afternoon rather than a polished story. I struggled a little with that but I think it was more of a preference issue than a skill issue on the author's part. The best part of the book is the nostalgia of it, and I think anyone who reads this will be left remembering their firsts of their own. The entire book is made up of several short stories, each one a sweet memory that will leave you smiling.
Overall, this was a pretty cute book.
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