From Publishers Weekly
Cussler takes a breather from his several ongoing series with this historical thriller set in the western states, circa 1906. The U.S. government hires the renowned Van Dorn Detective Agency and its equally renowned lead agent, Isaac Bell, to capture the bank robber known as the Butcher Bandit. The Butcher has gunned down 38 men and women and two children, leaving behind neither witnesses nor clues. Bell heads the manhunt and finally figures out the Butcher's true identity, which is when the real chase begins. Unfortunately, Cussler's style is patterned on the clunky dialogue (I pray you catch the murdering scum) and improbable characters of the period's dime novels, and his in-depth research makes his descriptions sound like advertising. Once San Francisco gets hit by the 1906 earthquake and the principals climb aboard a pair of fire-breathing locomotives, the novel cranks up a head of steam and some high-speed thrills.
(Nov.) Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
From AudioFile
Cussler fans will discover a change of pace in this thriller, set in 1906. The Butcher Bandit is on the loose across the West, emptying bank vaults and ruthlessly killing scores of innocent people, including women and children. Isaac Bell, lead agent of the top-notch Van Dorn Detective Agency, crisscrosses the colorful territory to crack the case. Reader Scott Brick breathes life into the clichŽd characters and stilted dialogue. Through BrickÕs capable voice, Bell is a savvy and quick-shooting manÕs man, who is capable of showing sensitive interest in a woman. BrickÕs excellent phrasing and skilled pacing enhance CusslerÕs heavy-handed but loving descriptions of the eraÕs locomotives. The 1906 San Francisco Earthquake kicks off the fast-paced conclusion, including one of CusslerÕs trademark chase scenes. N.M.C. © AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine--
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