Alton’s premiere novel is an interesting novel set in the 1800’s in Seattle and follows a Scottish gentleman from Glasgow, as he investigates a series of murders which further involves his life the deeper he gets involved.
 This is a richly poetic written novel which involves the reader with colourful characters and a fantastic plotting device that shows Alton to be an author to be reckon with should he decide to go down this artistic path. Â
 It is a murder mystery thriller with grisly murders happening catching the reader unawares.  When I started to read this excellent book, I wasn’t expecting it to go down the dark path it went.  It kept the tension reeled to a factor 7 and really doesn’t let up until its explosive ending.
 The characters are richly written with interesting dialogue.  They propel the story forward without bogging down the plot with unnecessary exposition.  The characters add levity to proceedings and seem to be alive, springing from the page in a very three dimensional fashion.
 The plotting is told in the first person and the time frame does jump back and forth between a couple of time frames.  This device is used to frame the murder and the main protagonist and used very effectively. The main character is very likable and although he appears to be a rogue for the time period, he is very endearing and a winning personality that keeps you interest.
 Overall, this is a well written work of fiction using a poetic narrative and interesting murders to keep the reader plunging forward.  With its strong plot and characterisations, this should be a sure fire winner and highly recommended. Â
