A book of the west. Volume 1, Devon : being an introduction to Devon and Cornwall

This volume invites listeners on a lyrical tour of Devon, the rugged heart of England’s western peninsula. Through vivid sketches and selective anecdotes, it paints the bustling markets of Exeter, the lace‑making heritage of Honiton, and the windswept cliffs of Clovelly, while hinting at the deeper myths that linger in stone and sea. The author’s aim is not to replace a guidebook but to spark a curious mind, offering tidbits that often escape the usual tourist routes.

Interwoven with brief biographies, folk songs, and illustrated vignettes, the work balances history with the everyday life of farmers, fishermen, and pilgrims. Readers will hear stories of Dartmoor’s ancient tors, the saints who shaped Cornwall’s identity, and the simple pleasures of hay‑making in summer fields. With its warm, observant tone, the book prepares any visitor to explore Devon with both appreciation and an eye for the unexpected.