The Insane Train by Sheldon Russell Review & Giveaway - Omnimystery Tour

MY THOUGHTS

When I first saw the title of this book, I had to read it.  Who wants to ride on a train with bunch of crazies?

Yard dog Hook Runyon returns in his second book of Sheldon Russell's 1940's mystery series.  Hook only has one arm, one dog, and is currently up at the disciplinary hearing from something that happened back in book one.  But regardless of the impending hearing, someone is needed for a new job, and it seems Hank's number has come up.

The Baldwin Insane Asylum in Barstow, California burned down.  Tragically, thirty people were killed, and the survivors are currrently living in tents.  There's a new facility for them to be transported to, but unfortunately, not much crew to help get them there.  Most of the current workers don't want to move.  It's up to Hank to find a team to help him secure the train.  However, it is against the law for them to be armed. 

Along with Hank and a bevy of WWII Vets, the head of the Aslyum, Dr. Baldwin, as well as Dr. Helms and a nurse named Andrea lead the train on it's new destination.  Andrea's hands are still healing from the bad burns she received from the fire, but she does what she can to help.  But when bodies end up dead, Hank has more than he bargained for.  Can he figure out who is the killer before the train arrives at it's destination with nothing but dead bodies?

The Insane Train may be the second in the series, but it can be read as a stand alone book.  I didn't feel like I was missing anything imperative with the main character or story line.  Russell does an excellent job of painting the backdrop in the 1940's.  No cellphones there!!  His writing is superb and smooth and his character development was outstanding.  I could just envision these characters in true form.  With a unique and engaging storyline and an intriguing and stellar mystery, The Insane Train is a must read!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

A retired college professor, Russell lives in Guthrie, Oklahoma, with his wife, Nancy, an artist. He has previously won the Oklahoma Book Award and the Langum Prize for Historical Literature.


The Yard Dog, the first Hook Runyon novel, was nominated for the Oklahoma Book Award and earned high praise as Russell’s debut mystery.

 
 
 

THE GIVEAWAY

“Russell Sheldon is giving away a signed copy of his book, Insane Train, to one lucky tour visitor.

Go to his book tour page, http://sheldon-russell.omnimystery.com/

Enter your name, e-mail address, and this PIN, 5202, for your chance to win.

Entries from Minding Spot will be accepted until 12:00 Noon (PT) tomorrow.

No purchase is required to enter or to win. The winner (first name only) will be announced on his book tour page next week.”

Next Tour Stop:  Tomorrow @ Book Bird Dog