The Man from the Train: The Solving of a Century-Old Serial Killer Mystery

by Bill James
The Man from the Train: The Solving of a Century-Old Serial Killer Mystery cover
Good Books rating 3.93
True Crime
Technical
  • ID: 2624
  • Added: 2025-10-15
  • Updated: 2025-10-15
  • ISBN: 9781476796253
  • Publisher: Simon and Schuster
  • Published: 2017-09-19
  • Reviews: 3

The Man from the Train delves into a series of brutal axe murders that occurred across America in the early 20th century. The book combines meticulous research and compelling narrative to explore these unsolved crimes, offering a fresh perspective on a dark chapter in American history. Through their investigation, Bill James and his daughter Rachel uncover startling connections and present a compelling theory about the identity of the killer. This book is not just a true crime story; it's a testament to the power of investigative research and the enduring fascination with unsolved mysteries. The authors' unique approach and deep dive into historical records make this a gripping and thought-provoking read for anyone interested in true crime and historical mysteries.

Reviews
The Crime Element · 2025-10-15
Mixed 3.00

The reviewer criticizes the book for sensationalizing crimes and including too much gory detail, which they find off-putting. They also mention that some parts are dry and dense.

The reviewer has mixed feelings about the book. While they appreciate the investigative work and the historical context, they find the sensationalism and graphic details to be off-putting. They also note that some sections are dry and dense, which makes it less engaging for them. Overall, they acknowledge the book's strengths but find some aspects problematic.

Quick quotes

    Sensationalizing the crime and the exploitation of victims turn me off.

    Too much gory detail is a no-no as well.

    Dry, dense writing is a major drawback.

Goodreads · 2017-09-19
Riveting 4.50

The reviewer finds the book riveting and immersive, with sharp writing and vivid psychological insights.

The reviewer thoroughly enjoyed this book, describing it as riveting and immersive. They highlight the sharp writing and vivid psychological insights, which bring the story to life. The book's ability to balance detailed research with engaging storytelling makes it a standout in the true crime genre. Overall, it's a compelling and thought-provoking read.

Quick quotes

    Riveting and immersive, with writing as sharp as the cold side of an axe, The Man from the Train paints a vivid, psychologically perceptive portrait of a killer.

    The book is a standout in the true crime genre due to its sharp writing and vivid insights.

    The balance of detailed research and engaging storytelling makes it a compelling read.

The Irregular Reader Blog · 2017-09-15
Engaging 4.30

The reviewer praises the book for its engaging narrative and compelling alternative theory about the killer's identity and motives.

The reviewer found the book to be a compelling and well-researched exploration of a century-old serial killer mystery. They particularly enjoyed the alternative theory presented by the authors, which challenges the commonly accepted narrative. The writing is engaging, and the book is both informative and thought-provoking, making it a great read for true crime enthusiasts.

Quick quotes

    Rather than the several crimes most ascribe to the killer, James posits that the man from the train began his cross-country murder spree as late as 1911.

    The book is a compelling alternative theory about the killer's identity and motives.

    The writing is engaging, and the book is both informative and thought-provoking.

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