The Caves of Perigord

By: Martin Walker

Narrated by: John Lee

Walker's richly interwoven novel opens with the arrival of a mysterious package for a young American woman working in a London auction house. Brought by a British officer, it contains a 17,000-year-old fragment of a cave painting left to him by his father, a former World War II hero.

The fragment, significant and stunning in itself, is also the key to the existence of an unknown cave that may be more important in the history of art and human creation than the world-famous one at Lascaux. It triggers a storm of publicity and commands the attention of the French authorities all the way up to the President of the Republic, who seems to know more about the painting's origins than anyone else...

As the young American woman, the British officer, and a French government art historian explore the ancient province of Perigord to determine the painting's origins, their search serves as backdrop for three compelling stories.

©2002 Martin Walker (P)2019 Tantor

Interesting story within a story - a palimsest

I enjoyed this and it may be something of a sleeper… so I really should wait and review after I’ve had time to ponder it more. It took me awhile to warm up to switching of stories. Each was good, but I kept waiting for Bruno for about half of the book, lol. In the end, it may stick with me, which will make up for the fact that there were too many transitions for it to be an actual exciting page-turner for me. I do like the layering of history, and Walker is a competent story-teller, who relieved me with a (relatively) happy ending. In other words, joy from sorrow. 4.5 stars from this Bruno fan!

Good introduction to author and Perigord

Bruno, Chief of Police, series is not as audacious in structure but for most readers will be more entertaining. Authentic sounding exposition of French history, politics, and geography, which only gets better through the Bruno series, and which I have listened to and enjoyed immensely.

Wonderful story. Lots of history

Im a big fan of Martin Walker’s Bruno series. This is another fascinating story of a region of France full of many layers of history.

The story kept my interest.

I enjoyed the story and the performance. Characters held their own and were convincing. I’m enjoying Martin Walker’s work.

Weak plot and too long

Martin Walker is usually excellent , this novel was an overreach , weak plot limited character development and way too long