Review of A Fiendish Crime

[Priya Murugesan]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "A Fiendish Crime" by Gene Stevens.]

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4 out of 5 stars

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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

[Mojisola Omowunmi Omotosho]

My interest is already piqued as I love crime thrillers. The book seems like an interesting read. Your review is also very insightful. I'll definitely check it out.

[Priya Murugesan]

My interest is already piqued as I love crime thrillers. The book seems like an interesting read. Your review is also very insightful. I'll definitely check it out.

Thanks for checking out my review!

[_Rhea Jacob]

It looks like a very interesting true crime book. I want to read the book to find out how the Jesse gang did a train robbery. Thank you for your detailed review!

[Priya Murugesan]

It looks like a very interesting true crime book. I want to read the book to find out how the Jesse gang did a train robbery. Thank you for your detailed review!

Thanks for reading my review!

[MAHAD BAIG MIRZA]

Your review of A Fiendish Crime by Gene Stevens was excellent, helping me understand the book in an interesting and engaging way. The clarity and simplicity of your writing made the content accessible and enjoyable. I was particularly intrigued by the detailed account of the world's first heinous train robbery and the use of old photographs and newspaper clippings. Thank you for making the book come alive for me!

[Priya Murugesan]

Your review of A Fiendish Crime by Gene Stevens was excellent, helping me understand the book in an interesting and engaging way. The clarity and simplicity of your writing made the content accessible and enjoyable. I was particularly intrigued by the detailed account of the world's first heinous train robbery and the use of old photographs and newspaper clippings. Thank you for making the book come alive for me!

Thanks for sharing your opinion!

[Martina Sette]

Your review of this true crime book is quite thorough and insightful. The author's background as a retired police officer and private investigator adds a layer of authenticity and expertise to the narrative, which has been well-supported by various photographs and newspaper clippings. Good job!

[Priya Murugesan]

Your review of this true crime book is quite thorough and insightful. The author's background as a retired police officer and private investigator adds a layer of authenticity and expertise to the narrative, which has been well-supported by various photographs and newspaper clippings. Good job!

Thanks for your valuable comments!

[Gerry Steen]

I would like to learn more about the Civil War, Border Wars, and how they led to the spawning of the Jesse gang.The detailed explanation and depiction of the robbery by the desperadoes is a subject that intrigues me. Thank you for this infomative review. I am adding this book to my bookshelves.

[Priya Murugesan]

I would like to learn more about the Civil War, Border Wars, and how they led to the spawning of the Jesse gang.The detailed explanation and depiction of the robbery by the desperadoes is a subject that intrigues me. Thank you for this infomative review. I am adding this book to my bookshelves.

Thanks a lot, Gerry!

[Yashi Shukla]

I love true crime based books and this one is right up my alley. Your review is very detailed and perfectly drafted. Thank you for your review.

[Priya Murugesan]

I love true crime based books and this one is right up my alley. Your review is very detailed and perfectly drafted. Thank you for your review.

Thank you for your comments!

[Harshitha G B]

The crime books especially from old times, where they rely more on their mind rather than quick equipment or methods to double confirm things is fun and curious to read. You have highlighted the good parts of the book.

[Alissa Nesson]

Great review, Priya! The book sounds really intriguing, but if it lacks coherence, I’m not sure it’s for me. I love the newspaper clippings and the cartoon. I also think it’s hilarious that more tickets were sold after the robbery! People are so funny.