This was a strong start to the Last Wagon Trail series, it had everything that I was hoping for from a Western book. It had that element that I enjoyed from the Johnstone's writing. The characters worked with this time-period and worked with everything that I was hoping for. It left me wanting to read the next book in the series and from the Johnstone's.

The Last Wagon Train (Pinnacle 2024) is a new story by William Johnstown about a wagon train headed down the Oregon Trail to Salem Oregon. This one is a break from the usual theme in that it is a race between the first railroad to run a line along that route and this final Wagon Train to see who can get there first. In this case, the railroad hasn't yet laid the lines so they can only win if they cheat. What a surprise. They try everything from burning up the wagons to an Indian attack to an inside guy who is tasked with making sure the wagon train loses.

It's a good story with plenty of clever action that made it almost impossible to put down. So why 4/5?  Because the twists and their resolutions were almost unbelievable albeit exciting. Still, there's lots of authentic information about the railroad era in America and the final days of wagon trains to keep history buffs turning pages.

Almost like watching a movie…a quick read…covered wagons…traveling…a talented author…a page turner. Enjoy

I love wagon train stories and that era. I’d never thought much about how the railroad put those days to an end. Great story, great author.

I really liked this book. It is not the regular JOHNSTONE story, though it doesn’t stray far. You get to know Tom Callahan, and really get to see all the challenges facing wagon trains, the wagon master, and the perils of traveling across the country in a covered wagon. I am in awe of the willingness of our ancestors to risk everything for a chance at a better life. The character development is great and I strongly recommend this book. I want to thank NetGalley for the opportunity to read and give an honest review of this novel.