Blood on the Siberian Snow: A charming murder mystery set in a village full of secrets

In the small Siberian village of Roslazny, Olga Pushkin, an aspiring writer and Railway Engineer (Second Class), is being forced overseas by her jealous superior. When her train crashes outside Roslazny, killing two on board, Vassily Marushkin discovers that the locomotive was derailed on purpose. Olga and her long-lost friend, Nevena Komarov, become closely involved in a murder investigation, but murder and extreme weather aren't the only things Olga has to deal with. She also has to deal with recalcitrant publishers, haunted police stations, and embarrassing online exposés. Death on the Trans-Siberian Express is a novel to treasure, full of larger-than-life characters and a warmth that would thaw Siberia.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 12 October 2023
Publisher: Little, Brown Book Group

In the enchanting village of Roslazny, nestled in the heart of Siberia, a murder mystery unfolds that captivates the hearts of readers. The Times Crime Club's "Quirky and Colourful Times Crime Club" is an absolute delight, penned by the talented L C Tyler. This intriguing but charming murder mystery is packed with psychological depth and wonderfully-drawn characters.

The story revolves around Olga Pushkin, an aspiring writer and Railway Engineer (Second Class), who is forced to leave her beloved rail-side hut and embark on a two-year exile overseas due to the jealous actions of her superior. However, fate intervenes when her train crashes outside Roslazny, shutting the line and killing two on board—local celebrity Danyl Petrovich and his wife, Anoushka.

As the weather closes in, trapping the villagers—and the suspects—inside, Vassily Marushkin, the sergeant-in-charge at the tiny Roslazny police station, begins a murder investigation. Olga and her long-lost friend, Nevena Komarov, soon become closely involved in the case, as they navigate through a web of secrets and lies.

But murder and extreme weather aren't the only challenges Olga faces. Recalcitrant publishers, haunted police stations, and embarrassing online exposés combine to make this early winter a particularly challenging one. The threat of a forced departure still looms as soon as the weather lifts, adding an extra layer of suspense to the story.

Olga must navigate through a maze of clues and interrogate suspects to uncover the truth behind the murders. With the help of her wits and the support of her newfound friends, she embarks on a mission to secure the release of her book, exorcise the ghost that haunts her, and save her job.

The whole atmosphere of the village and the two main characters—Olga and Vassily—are evoked with charm and panache. The novel is a treasure to be cherished, and A. N. Wilson's praise for "Death on the Trans-Siberian Express" is well-deserved.

In conclusion, "Quirky and Colourful Times Crime Club" is a captivating murder mystery that will keep readers hooked until the very end. With its rich characters, intricate plot, and atmospheric setting, this novel is a must-read for anyone who loves a good mystery. Prepare to be transported to the enchanting village of Roslazny and join Olga Pushkin on her thrilling journey to solve the murder mystery and save her beloved village.

Weight: 268g
Dimension: 127 x 198 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781472133182