Down Murder Mountain

by Frederick Poss

SUMMARY OF DOWN MURDER MOUNTAIN







Set in the lush marshes and rugged bluffs of northern Wisconsin, this gripping thriller intricately explores the boundaries of friendship, young love, the insidious power of the Sinaloa drug cartel, and the dark secrets of the von Himmel family. Just one year earlier, at the age of fifteen, Jack von Himmel risked the lives of his first love, Sara Koleski, as well as his own, to confront the brutal hatred of his Nazi family and their hired guns from the KKK.



Now sixteen, Jack innocently signs on to play nose tackle on the Hamot football team and accepts weekend work at the Farewell moss-gathering warehouse. However, he soon finds himself perilously facing the murderous revenge of hired sicarios and the controlling power of teenage lust. Greed, shocking violence, and ultimate betrayal transport readers into a landscape where innocent blood is spilled early and often. Despite the best efforts of Texas Ranger Amarillo Smith and FBI investigator Christine Mountain Wolf danger and death await Jack or anyone else who dares travel Down Murder Mountain.







IF YOU DON'T WANT TO MISS OUT LEARNING THE FULL STORY BEHIND JACK VON HIMMEL, READ MORE ABOUT HIM IN POSS'S FIRST MURDER ON BIG STONY LONESOME.

276 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 21, 2024

About the author

Frederick Poss grew up in Tomah, Wisconsin, a kid who loved to trout fish and tell fibs. He attended UW-Oshkosh earning a B.S. in English. He completed graduate school first at UW-Madison where he earned an M.A. in Education/English, and later earned an M.S.T. in Reading at UW-Eau Claire. He was named Wisconsin's Outstanding Teacher of Composition three times in his career and honored with the title Writing Fellow by the National Writing Project. After teaching high school, undergraduate, and graduate school, he still loves to fish and fib. Contact Poss at fredposs@gmail.com. Look for more stories about Jack von Himmel and, of course, wolves.

Reviews

[Debbie Petersen · Rating 4 out of 5]

A thriller set in the Tomah /Black River Falls, Wi area explores the boundaries of friendship, young love, power of drug cartel and deep family secrets. The author is from this area as well.

[Frederick Poss · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a wonderful read: believable characters, surprising plot twists, unusual up north setting, and engaging dialogue. Appropriate for teens and adults, the story draws us into the lives of high schoolers, professional police officers and Sinaloa cartel assassins as they take deadly risks to outwit each other. Jack von Himmel, a sixteen-year-old foster child, receives an old pickup truck for his birthday from his girlfriend Sara Koleski's family. But it needs gas and insurance, so Jack lands a part-time job loading peat moss at a local warehouse. Everything looks great until Jack discovers there is more than moss being loaded and shipped across the country. FBI agent Christine Mountain Wolf and Texas Ranger Amarillo Smith join with Jack to try to end the beheadings the cartel mob uses as its calling card. Follow the characters and their struggles in a small Wisconsin town, across the bog and cranberry country of the northland and in their final battle--down Murder Mountain.

[Mercy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Relentless Battle Between Innocence and Survival

What stood out to me most in this story is how it captures the fragile line between youth and survival. Jack is still navigating typical teenage experiences, yet he is constantly forced into life-threatening situations that demand maturity beyond his years. The emotional conflict between wanting a normal life and being pulled into violence is deeply compelling. It makes you reflect on how quickly innocence can be lost when circumstances spiral out of control. This emotional tension adds depth to the thriller and makes the story feel impactful and real.

[Mandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Dark and Gripping Coming-of-Age Thriller

This novel delivers a powerful blend of suspense and emotional growth, following Jack as he navigates the dangerous transition from adolescence into a world filled with violence and hidden truths. The contrast between teenage innocence and brutal reality is striking. I appreciated how the author didn’t shy away from showing the consequences of choices, making the story feel real and intense. It’s more than a thriller, it’s a story about survival, identity, and courage in the face of overwhelming darkness.

[Florence · Rating 5 out of 5]

An Intense World Filled with Unseen Dangers

The author creates a world where danger is always present, even in the most ordinary moments. Whether it’s at work, on the field, or in relationships, there’s an underlying sense that something could go wrong at any time. This constant tension keeps the reader fully engaged. The inclusion of powerful external forces, like organized crime, adds scale to the story, making Jack’s struggles feel even more overwhelming. It’s a reminder that sometimes the biggest threats are the ones you don’t see coming.

[Nancy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Story That Leaves a Lasting Impression

After finishing this book, I found myself still thinking about the characters and the choices they made. The story doesn’t just entertain, it lingers. The combination of emotional depth, suspense, and moral complexity makes it memorable. The author doesn’t offer easy answers, which makes the narrative feel more authentic. It’s the kind of book that stays with you and sparks reflection long after the final page. For readers who enjoy thrillers with substance, this is definitely one worth picking up.

[Ariah · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Story That Blends Emotion and Suspense Perfectly

This book does an impressive job of combining emotional storytelling with high-stakes suspense. Jack’s personal struggles are just as compelling as the external dangers he faces. You feel his fear, his confusion, and his determination, which makes every situation more intense. The emotional layer makes the action more meaningful, and the suspense keeps you fully engaged. It’s a strong combination that makes the book both thrilling and deeply human.

[Roberts · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Story That Shows the Cost of Survival

What makes this book stand out is how it portrays survival not as a victory, but as a heavy burden. Jack’s journey is filled with difficult choices that come with real consequences, and the story doesn’t shy away from showing that surviving dangerous situations can leave emotional scars. This adds a layer of realism that makes the narrative feel grounded. It’s not just about escaping danger, but about living with the aftermath, and that is what makes the story resonate long after reading.

[Vivian · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Story That Keeps You Constantly on Edge

From the opening chapters, the pacing is tight and relentless. The tension builds steadily as Jack becomes entangled in forces far beyond his control. The constant sense of danger made it difficult to put the book down. Every chapter introduces new stakes, making the story feel urgent and unpredictable. If you enjoy thrillers that keep your heart racing and your mind guessing, this book definitely delivers that experience.

[Henderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Complex Characters That Feel Real

One of the strongest elements of the book is its characters. Jack is not just a hero; he is flawed, confused, and deeply human. His relationships, especially with Sara and those around him, are layered and believable. The author gives each character depth, making their motivations understandable even when their actions are questionable. This emotional complexity adds weight to the story and makes it more than just a simple thriller.

[Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Bold Exploration of Dark Themes

This book tackles heavy themes such as hate, family loyalty, and moral conflict. The portrayal of Jack’s background and the legacy of violence surrounding him adds a chilling dimension to the story. It’s not just about external threats but also internal struggles. The author explores how the past shapes identity and how difficult it can be to break free from it. This depth makes the novel thought-provoking as well as entertaining.

[Mark · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Setting Feels Alive and Atmospheric

The northern Wisconsin setting plays a crucial role in the story. The marshes, bluffs, and remote landscapes create a haunting atmosphere that perfectly complements the dark narrative. The descriptions are vivid enough to immerse you without slowing down the pacing. It feels like the environment itself is part of the danger, adding another layer of tension to the story.

[Nathalia · Rating 5 out of 5]

An Intense Narrative with Emotional Weight

Beyond the suspense and action, there is a strong emotional core that drives the story forward. The relationships, the trust, and the fear all feel genuine, making the stakes even higher. You’re not just reading about events you’re experiencing the emotional impact of them alongside the characters. This balance between intensity and emotion is what makes the book engaging from start to finish.

[Jeremy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Thriller That Keeps You Thinking

This is the kind of book that continues to stay in your mind even after you’ve finished it. The themes, the character decisions, and the overall journey invite reflection. It’s not just about what happens, but why it happens and what it means. The author creates a narrative that encourages readers to think about human behavior, choices, and consequences, making it a more meaningful reading experience.

[Wisdox · Rating 5 out of 5]

Highly Recommended for Thriller Lovers
If you enjoy stories that combine suspense, emotional depth, and strong character development, this book is worth reading. It offers a gripping narrative with meaningful themes and memorable characters. I would definitely recommend it to readers who appreciate intense, thought-provoking thrillers with a human touch.

[Malon Patrick · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Unique Blend of Teen Drama and Crime Thriller

What makes this book stand out is how it blends teenage life with serious crime elements. Jack’s involvement in football and his attempts at a normal life contrast sharply with the violent world he’s drawn into. This mix of ordinary teenage experiences and extreme danger creates a compelling dynamic that keeps the story fresh and engaging.

[Merry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Twists That Keep You Guessing

The plot is filled with unexpected turns that make it hard to predict what will happen next. Just when you think you understand where the story is going, something shifts. These twists are not forced; they feel like natural outcomes of the characters’ choices. This keeps the reader fully engaged from beginning to end.

[Tiillrr Hene · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Story of Courage in the Face of Fear

At its core, the book is about bravery. Jack is constantly faced with situations that test his limits, forcing him to make difficult decisions. His journey shows that courage is not about being fearless but about acting despite fear. This message resonates strongly and adds emotional depth to the story.

[Samson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Engaging Dialogue That Drives the Story

The dialogue feels natural and helps move the story forward without unnecessary exposition. Conversations reveal character motivations and build tension effectively. It’s easy to imagine these characters speaking, which adds to the realism of the narrative. The balance between action and dialogue is well maintained.

[Rasmell · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Powerful Sequel Experience

For readers familiar with the previous story, this book expands the world and deepens the stakes. However, even new readers can follow along without confusion. The author provides enough context while still rewarding those who have read earlier works. It feels like a continuation but also stands strong on its own.

[David · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emotionally Intense and Thought-Provoking

Beyond the action, the book carries emotional depth. The relationships, the fear, and the constant threat create a sense of emotional tension that stays with you. It’s not just about what happens, but how it affects the characters. This makes the story memorable even after finishing it.

[Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Compelling Journey Through Risk and Consequence

What I appreciated most is how every action in the story carries weight. Jack’s decisions are never simple, and each choice leads to consequences that shape the narrative. This creates a sense of realism that pulls you into the story. It feels like a journey where every step matters, making the reader more invested in what happens next.

[Nola · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Fast-Paced Thriller That Doesn’t Lose Depth

The pacing of this book is one of its strongest features. It moves quickly, yet it never sacrifices character development or emotional depth. The author manages to keep the story moving while still giving readers time to connect with the characters. This balance makes it an engaging read from beginning to end.

[Nylah · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Story Full of Tension and Uncertainty

There is a constant feeling of uncertainty throughout the book. You never feel completely safe as a reader, and that tension adds to the excitement. The unpredictability keeps you turning the pages, wondering what will happen next. It’s the kind of story that keeps you mentally involved the whole time.

[Ellianna · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Powerful Look at Loyalty and Betrayal

The relationships in this book are layered with trust, loyalty, and betrayal. The author explores how quickly alliances can shift and how difficult it is to know who to trust. This adds emotional weight to the story and makes the conflicts feel more personal and impactful.

[Allyson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Unique Perspective on Teenage Life

This is not your typical coming-of-age story. It takes the familiar experiences of youth and places them in a much darker context. The result is a narrative that feels fresh and unique. It highlights how external circumstances can shape a person’s path in unexpected ways.

[Cillian · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Story That Builds Intensity with Every Chapter

Each chapter adds another layer of tension, making the story feel like it is constantly building toward something bigger. The steady increase in stakes keeps the reader engaged and invested. It’s a well-structured narrative that knows how to maintain momentum.

[Gracestephex · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Strong Balance of Action and Storytelling
The action scenes are well-written and exciting, but they don’t overshadow the story. There is a good balance between fast-paced moments and slower, reflective scenes. This keeps the narrative engaging without feeling overwhelming.

[Yusuf Edago · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Realistic Look at Good vs Evil
The story doesn’t present a simple good-versus-evil narrative. Instead, it shows how complex human behavior can be. Characters operate in shades of gray, making the story more believable and engaging. This complexity adds depth to the thriller elements.

[Jane · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Raw Portrayal of Consequences

This is not a story where actions come without consequences. The author shows how decisions—good or bad—have lasting effects. This realism adds weight to every moment. It makes the reader think carefully about each character’s choices and what they might lead to.