Review of A Fiendish Crime
Posted: 21 Jun 2024, 03:10
[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "A Fiendish Crime" by Gene Stevens.]
A Fiendish Crime by Gene Stevens
This true crime book gives a detailed account of the world's first heinous train robbery aboard a moving train by the notorious Jesse gang. It happened on the 21st of July, 1873, in Adair, Iowa. The narration starts with the mention of the historic road called "White Pole Road" that runs parallel to the well-known I-80, around which the ill-famed Barrow gang was shot up and the infamous train robbery occurred. The first chapter gives us a brief introduction to various wars, like the Civil War and the Border Wars. The author further explains how the wars led to the spawning of the Jesse gang. He then provides a detailed explanation and depiction of the robbery by the desperadoes. Along with photographs and various articles, the narration was dramatic and a little shocking to read. As one can infer from the thrilling narrative, it can be rightly portrayed as a fiendish crime.
The author, a retired police officer and licensed private investigator, expertly incorporates his background into the book. He had analyzed and researched the crime very well. He supports his story with various newspaper clippings, photographs, and pictures from websites such as Wikipedia and the Gutenberg Project.
I found the book cover intriguing because it featured old photos of the outlaws and a cartoon image, giving it a vintage feel. Since I love true stories, I decided to pick up the book. The author's use of old photographs, pictures, and newspaper clippings helps to provide a realistic account of the crime. I also found it funny that there was an increase in passenger ticket sales after the incident.
The layout of the book could have been better, and the presentation of information could have been more engaging. It was a bit confusing to read, as the topics seemed to change abruptly. I wish to know how the Fords killed Jesse. The book was a quick read, and it left me wanting more. While the author's research was meticulous, the book felt too short, and it also lacked coherence.
I noted one error. Other than that, the editing is incredible. For the above reasons, I rate the book 4 out of 5 stars. I recommend this book to readers who love true crime stories.
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A Fiendish Crime
View: on Bookshelves
A Fiendish Crime by Gene Stevens
This true crime book gives a detailed account of the world's first heinous train robbery aboard a moving train by the notorious Jesse gang. It happened on the 21st of July, 1873, in Adair, Iowa. The narration starts with the mention of the historic road called "White Pole Road" that runs parallel to the well-known I-80, around which the ill-famed Barrow gang was shot up and the infamous train robbery occurred. The first chapter gives us a brief introduction to various wars, like the Civil War and the Border Wars. The author further explains how the wars led to the spawning of the Jesse gang. He then provides a detailed explanation and depiction of the robbery by the desperadoes. Along with photographs and various articles, the narration was dramatic and a little shocking to read. As one can infer from the thrilling narrative, it can be rightly portrayed as a fiendish crime.
The author, a retired police officer and licensed private investigator, expertly incorporates his background into the book. He had analyzed and researched the crime very well. He supports his story with various newspaper clippings, photographs, and pictures from websites such as Wikipedia and the Gutenberg Project.
I found the book cover intriguing because it featured old photos of the outlaws and a cartoon image, giving it a vintage feel. Since I love true stories, I decided to pick up the book. The author's use of old photographs, pictures, and newspaper clippings helps to provide a realistic account of the crime. I also found it funny that there was an increase in passenger ticket sales after the incident.
The layout of the book could have been better, and the presentation of information could have been more engaging. It was a bit confusing to read, as the topics seemed to change abruptly. I wish to know how the Fords killed Jesse. The book was a quick read, and it left me wanting more. While the author's research was meticulous, the book felt too short, and it also lacked coherence.
I noted one error. Other than that, the editing is incredible. For the above reasons, I rate the book 4 out of 5 stars. I recommend this book to readers who love true crime stories.
******
A Fiendish Crime
View: on Bookshelves
