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Madman
A Crime That Shattered Paradise... A Chase That Became Legend.
Crystal Beach, Florida—1949. A peaceful seaside haven where crime was unheard of. Until one early morning, a brutal act of violence changed everything.
John Calvin "Rastus" Russell, a drifter, thug, and small-time car thief, committed an unthinkable crime—the torture and murder of Norman Y. Browne and the near-fatal assault on his wife, Anne. The savage attack sent shockwaves through the tight-knit community, turning everyday citizens into armed vigilantes determined to bring a killer to justice.
But this was no ordinary murder case. Russell's dramatic capture the next day was just the beginning of a story far stranger than fiction. As investigators pursued justice, shocking secrets unraveled—about the victims, their pasts, and a tangled web of deceit that no one saw coming. With a desperate escape, a relentless manhunt, and a hurricane crashing into the chaos, the pursuit of Rastus Russell became a deadly game of cat and mouse, pushing the limits of 1940s rural law enforcement.
For nearly a month, terror gripped Crystal Beach and West Central Florida. The case became national news, a chilling tale whispered for generations. But nothing will prepare readers for the explosive and controversial ending—one that left residents and police stunned.
"Just like the movies," one headline declared. But this was real. And now, for the first time, the full story of Rastus Russell is told—a tale of crime, deception, and justice that will haunt you long after the finale.
Crystal Beach, Florida—1949. A peaceful seaside haven where crime was unheard of. Until one early morning, a brutal act of violence changed everything.
John Calvin "Rastus" Russell, a drifter, thug, and small-time car thief, committed an unthinkable crime—the torture and murder of Norman Y. Browne and the near-fatal assault on his wife, Anne. The savage attack sent shockwaves through the tight-knit community, turning everyday citizens into armed vigilantes determined to bring a killer to justice.
But this was no ordinary murder case. Russell's dramatic capture the next day was just the beginning of a story far stranger than fiction. As investigators pursued justice, shocking secrets unraveled—about the victims, their pasts, and a tangled web of deceit that no one saw coming. With a desperate escape, a relentless manhunt, and a hurricane crashing into the chaos, the pursuit of Rastus Russell became a deadly game of cat and mouse, pushing the limits of 1940s rural law enforcement.
For nearly a month, terror gripped Crystal Beach and West Central Florida. The case became national news, a chilling tale whispered for generations. But nothing will prepare readers for the explosive and controversial ending—one that left residents and police stunned.
"Just like the movies," one headline declared. But this was real. And now, for the first time, the full story of Rastus Russell is told—a tale of crime, deception, and justice that will haunt you long after the finale.
- GenresNonfictionTrue Crime
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Published January 7, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews
November 21, 2025
Apparently, "Florida Man" is not a recent development. Author M. F. Gross proves it with his absolutely wild Madman. This true crime story covers the crimes of John Calvin "Rastus" Russell in 1949. What did he do? Might be easier to ask what he didn't do.
Seriously, I don't want to give away too much here. Gross just tells the story because it needs no embellishment. I found myself multiple times saying, "Wait, what?" The twists and turns of the horrific crime truly start to make you wonder if this is a movie script.
Gross makes a lot of great choices as the author. For one thing, Gross lets the story tell itself, except when he knows he needs to clarify things. There are such strange questions which come up and it is here where Gross will break from the action to let you know that he has the same questions you do. Sometimes, he has to guess and make some conjectures. For those readers who demand no fiction in your non-fiction (that's me!), Gross makes sure to clarify what he knows and what he doesn't. It makes it feel like you are in this together.
I will warn readers, Gross pulls no punches. The crimes are detailed, but not in a gratuitous way. The brutality is important in trying to understand how Russell could seem to be a Jekyll and Hyde type depending on the circumstances. This is just straightforward, riveting true crime.
I mean, come on. When has Florida ever let us down?
(This book was provided as a review copy by the author.)
Seriously, I don't want to give away too much here. Gross just tells the story because it needs no embellishment. I found myself multiple times saying, "Wait, what?" The twists and turns of the horrific crime truly start to make you wonder if this is a movie script.
Gross makes a lot of great choices as the author. For one thing, Gross lets the story tell itself, except when he knows he needs to clarify things. There are such strange questions which come up and it is here where Gross will break from the action to let you know that he has the same questions you do. Sometimes, he has to guess and make some conjectures. For those readers who demand no fiction in your non-fiction (that's me!), Gross makes sure to clarify what he knows and what he doesn't. It makes it feel like you are in this together.
I will warn readers, Gross pulls no punches. The crimes are detailed, but not in a gratuitous way. The brutality is important in trying to understand how Russell could seem to be a Jekyll and Hyde type depending on the circumstances. This is just straightforward, riveting true crime.
I mean, come on. When has Florida ever let us down?
(This book was provided as a review copy by the author.)
August 27, 2025
M.F. Gross, the Author of “MADMAN” has written an edgy, suspenseful, terrifying and haunting novel. The Genres for this book are Historical Thriller,Biography of Serial Killers, Serial Killers True Accounts, and True Crime Thriller. The timeline for this story is 1949, and goes to the past when it pertains to the characters or events in the story. The locations are Crystal Beach Florida, and West Central Florida. The author vividly describes the dramatic, complex and complicated characters. In this well written account of a true story, the protagonist, “John Calvin”Rastus” Russell is a murderer and a “Houdini” of escaping prison. According to witnesses, the author provides various descriptions of the killer. In some cases, he is portrayed as helpful in teaching another person to swim, or caring for his mother, and showing some respect to his aunt. On the other hand, “Rastus” is described as a cold hearted violent killer and a skilled survivor capable of the most heinous of crimes. At times, he is portrayed as psychologically unbalanced and unhinged.
Questions are raised about “Rastus’ motives for choosing the house and people as victims. Did they owe him something? Is there more than meets the eye? In the small community, the protagonist is strong, and capable of living in the wilderness, stealing cars, and breaking into stores for cash and food. Is there someone who is helping him escape? There are past mistakes in the court systems, where “Rastus” never went where he was assigned. This would make a great movie and certainly is a memorable , terrifying and thought provoking book that I would highly recommend.
Questions are raised about “Rastus’ motives for choosing the house and people as victims. Did they owe him something? Is there more than meets the eye? In the small community, the protagonist is strong, and capable of living in the wilderness, stealing cars, and breaking into stores for cash and food. Is there someone who is helping him escape? There are past mistakes in the court systems, where “Rastus” never went where he was assigned. This would make a great movie and certainly is a memorable , terrifying and thought provoking book that I would highly recommend.
August 27, 2025
What a mind-blowing read! As a true crime junkie, this one gave me legit chills. The author dives deep—pulling from witness accounts, psychological insights, and Rastus Russell’s shady past—yet spares readers from the overly gory stuff. It’s wild to think something so dark went down in such a quiet neighborhood. The story honors the victims while also giving us a peek into the mind of a psychopath (without excusing his actions). Definitely one for a mature audience, but wow—what a powerful, unsettling, and unforgettable read. Unfortunately, it’s a true story. I also appreciated the spread of photos included in the book.
October 26, 2025
Madman
Review of Madman by M R GrosMadman
One of the cool things about historical crime stories is when an author can give you a feel for time and place. I don't find it often but Mr. Gross gives a great late-forties backwoods coastal Florida vibe. I can smell low tide and hear the damn mosquitoes.
Based on historical media and recent interviews where available, the story is presented well, followed by an interesting ‘what if’ based on inconsistencies in the recorded facts and statements.
I'd definitely go for any other stories of this type Mr Gross feels like tackling.
Review of Madman by M R GrosMadman
One of the cool things about historical crime stories is when an author can give you a feel for time and place. I don't find it often but Mr. Gross gives a great late-forties backwoods coastal Florida vibe. I can smell low tide and hear the damn mosquitoes.
Based on historical media and recent interviews where available, the story is presented well, followed by an interesting ‘what if’ based on inconsistencies in the recorded facts and statements.
I'd definitely go for any other stories of this type Mr Gross feels like tackling.
September 21, 2025
Excellent, engaging true crime.
Wonderful true crime book. As a Kindle reader, I find it's very hit-or-miss finding good reads in the true crime category. The book, Madman, is a HIT!
Extensive research presented in a chatty, friendly way. It completely drew me in to the rural Florida of 1949. The book really flows.
At the end, the author presents his wrap-up of why the murder happened. He's clear these are his assumptions. The are very credible to me.
I highly recommend this book to true crime readers!
Wonderful true crime book. As a Kindle reader, I find it's very hit-or-miss finding good reads in the true crime category. The book, Madman, is a HIT!
Extensive research presented in a chatty, friendly way. It completely drew me in to the rural Florida of 1949. The book really flows.
At the end, the author presents his wrap-up of why the murder happened. He's clear these are his assumptions. The are very credible to me.
I highly recommend this book to true crime readers!
September 21, 2025
Thank you @mfgrossbooks for my complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
𝙏𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙜𝙧𝙖𝙥𝙝𝙞𝙘 𝙩𝙧𝙪𝙚 𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙧𝙮 𝙞𝙨 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙛𝙚𝙞𝙣𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙩!
This book begins with a foreword from the author, highlighting his lifelong fascination with a crime that occurred near his childhood home. Then he transitions to the narrative where he skillfully sets the stage for a tale that unfolds beginning with a shocking murder at the Browne household.
The author uses a present tense narrative style, and unfolds the story in a detailed, step-by-step manner that allows for a thorough exploration of events. While this methodical approach may feel slower to some readers, it provides a rich context and depth to the unfolding drama. Additionally, the author includes footnotes that offer valuable clarifications that enhance understanding. Overall, this story presents a unique and immersive reading experience for those who appreciate a deep dive into its chilling subject matter.
𝙏𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙜𝙧𝙖𝙥𝙝𝙞𝙘 𝙩𝙧𝙪𝙚 𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙧𝙮 𝙞𝙨 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙛𝙚𝙞𝙣𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙩!
This book begins with a foreword from the author, highlighting his lifelong fascination with a crime that occurred near his childhood home. Then he transitions to the narrative where he skillfully sets the stage for a tale that unfolds beginning with a shocking murder at the Browne household.
The author uses a present tense narrative style, and unfolds the story in a detailed, step-by-step manner that allows for a thorough exploration of events. While this methodical approach may feel slower to some readers, it provides a rich context and depth to the unfolding drama. Additionally, the author includes footnotes that offer valuable clarifications that enhance understanding. Overall, this story presents a unique and immersive reading experience for those who appreciate a deep dive into its chilling subject matter.
Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews