The Piper on the Mountain (1966)

A mystery set in Slovakia about four Oxford students on a European vacation in the 1960s. The descriptions of Slovakia were so beautifully written that it was tempting to go back and re-read sentences or even full paragraphs. The plot wasn't out of the ordinary but the writing made up for it and made it a very enjoyable read. ( )

From the author of the Brother Cadfael books comes a different era, the 1960's. I enjoyed it! ( )

I had not read a good espionage novel, and was delighted to reconnect with the genre in this book: Slovakia behind the Iron Curtain with a tale of government secrets, brilliant minds, innovating technologies and ideals has all the trappings of a gripping story mingled with murder, treason and false accusation. The story stays simple despite all these elements and brilliantly described in a calm and soothing countryside that clashes with the plot. There is not a dull moment and the characters' energy pulls the story throughout. A great read that has not aged. ( )

I like this one. Twisty, yes, with assumptions overturned in all directions, but the characters we get to know are all on the same side though they may not know it to start with. Poor Mirek. I knew why he blushed - knew it when he bummed a ride. And I really like Tossa - it's good to see her here in her uncertainty before she begins to blossom. And Dom speaking up for the police and being proven right, even if it is the hard way - and going his own way and putting himself in danger to get the answers he needs! Classic Dom. Nothing extraordinary in the story, but it's a beautiful example of a Peters book. I like. ( )

Short, sweet easy read, takes you to an obscure part of the world; Slovakia in the mid-sixties. ( )