The Hindenburg Murders

Rating:
Summary: Fascinating fictional look at a dramatic historical incident
Review: Usually I am leery of writers who use real life historical characters as sleuths, they tend to just rely on the gimmick with the mystery angle being rather blah, however that's not the case with this book.

Collins choice of Leslie Charteris as his protagonist is ideal. Charteris was a colorful character in his own right and he *was* a passenger on the Hindenburgh (on it's maiden voyage though not on the final trip). Collin's also uses the real names of the passengers and crew for his fictitious characters, creates a credible mystery around the events in pre-war Nazi Germany and builds to a spectacular climax. All makes for very satisfying reading.

Not only will I be looking for more Max Allan Collins this book has made me want to find out more about the Hinderburgh and to re-read the Saint stories.