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Blood Trail: There's Only One Way to Track a Twisted Killer
Slaughter on a Shoestring
On October 29, 1997, hooker Andrea "Slick" Hendrix's, beaten, naked body was discovered in a roadside ditch near Stewartsville, Indiana. With no leads for police to follow, the case eventually went cold, but it wouldn't stay that way. In 2003, sadistic sexual predator Joseph W. Brown claimed to have strangled Hendrix with his favorite murder weapon: a shoelace from a woman's size-8 shoe.
Hard Luck
Ginger Gasaway, 53, met Brown at a Gambler's Anonymous meeting. She didn't know that when she took up with him, she was gambling with her life. On August 30, 2000, Brown murdered Gasaway and scattered her body parts across three Indiana counties. For this grisly crime, he would be sentenced to life in prison without parole. But it wouldn't be his first time behind bars. . .
How Many More?
In 1977, Brown had been sentenced to life in prison for kidnapping and armed robbery. In 1995, he was released despite the fact that he'd beaten a fellow inmate nearly to death. Brown later confessed that during the next five years, he indulged in a seven-state rampage of torture and murder, his victims female hitchhikers and prostitutes. Now doing time in Wabash Valley Corrections Center, Brown maintains that he murdered no less than thirteen other women.
On October 29, 1997, hooker Andrea "Slick" Hendrix's, beaten, naked body was discovered in a roadside ditch near Stewartsville, Indiana. With no leads for police to follow, the case eventually went cold, but it wouldn't stay that way. In 2003, sadistic sexual predator Joseph W. Brown claimed to have strangled Hendrix with his favorite murder weapon: a shoelace from a woman's size-8 shoe.
Hard Luck
Ginger Gasaway, 53, met Brown at a Gambler's Anonymous meeting. She didn't know that when she took up with him, she was gambling with her life. On August 30, 2000, Brown murdered Gasaway and scattered her body parts across three Indiana counties. For this grisly crime, he would be sentenced to life in prison without parole. But it wouldn't be his first time behind bars. . .
How Many More?
In 1977, Brown had been sentenced to life in prison for kidnapping and armed robbery. In 1995, he was released despite the fact that he'd beaten a fellow inmate nearly to death. Brown later confessed that during the next five years, he indulged in a seven-state rampage of torture and murder, his victims female hitchhikers and prostitutes. Now doing time in Wabash Valley Corrections Center, Brown maintains that he murdered no less than thirteen other women.
- GenresTrue CrimeNonfiction
352 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2005
50 people are currently reading
113 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
March 11, 2021
Pretty interesting book on murderer Joe Brown. There was a bit of repetition, but nothing major. The book made me glad I wasn't Detective Rick Reed. OMG, what that man had to go through for this case! In fact, I take my hat off to all police/detectives/etc that spend YEARS of their lives putting guys like Joe behind bars.
3 Stars = Okay. Glad I read it.
3 Stars = Okay. Glad I read it.
August 5, 2018
I can't rate my own book, but I wanted to point this one out as my maiden journey into writing. I was the police detective that caught this fine fellow. I hope you will enjoy it, but remember, be gentle, it was my first time.
June 18, 2024
Gave up at 67%. I found the first 40% very interesting, however then it just starts really dragging. Once it gets to court, it gets very detailed and long. So much of that I feel could have been summarized without going in depth. Some may like that, I don't.
Overall it's a interesting story but just don't feel book was written very well. May try and finish it later but for now it's sits on the dnf shelf.
Overall it's a interesting story but just don't feel book was written very well. May try and finish it later but for now it's sits on the dnf shelf.
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April 13, 2025Book Review: Blood Trail by Steven Walker and Rick Reed
Blood Trail is a gripping thriller that expertly blends the taut suspense of a classic detective story with the raw intensity of a modern crime narrative. Co-authored by Steven Walker and Rick Reed, the novel takes readers on a harrowing journey through the darker sides of human nature, exploring themes of loss, vengeance, and the indelible bonds forged in the crucible of violence.
Intriguing Plotline
At the heart of Blood Trail is a relentless manhunt for a serial killer who has left a trail of bodies in his wake. The story follows the dedicated investigators who are determined to track down the perpetrator before he strikes again. Walker and Reed craft a narrative that is filled with tension and unexpected twists, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. The pacing is brisk, and the action is relentless, making it a page-turner from start to finish.
Character Development
One of the novel’s standout features is its well-drawn characters. The protagonists are deeply human, each grappling with their own demons while navigating the pressures of their work. The authors delve into the psyche of both the detectives and the killer, creating a complex portrait of morality and choices. As the investigation unfolds, readers gain insight into the motivations that drive each character, adding depth to the story and heightening emotional engagement.
Exploration of Themes
Blood Trail doesn’t shy away from exploring dark themes, such as the impact of trauma and the nuances of justice. Walker and Reed provide readers with a thought-provoking commentary on the consequences of violence—not only on the victims but also on the investigators seeking to uphold the law. The novel invites reflection on the nature of revenge and the moral complexities that arise when justice is pursued at any cost.
Vivid Descriptions and Atmosphere
The authors excel at creating a vivid atmosphere that complements the story’s intensity. Their descriptive writing brings each scene to life, whether it’s the unsettling quiet of a crime scene or the frantic chaos of a high-stakes chase. The setting plays a significant role in enhancing the mood, immersing readers in a world that feels both familiar and terrifying.
Conclusion: A Thrilling Read
Blood Trail is a masterful blend of suspense, character depth, and thematic richness. Steven Walker and Rick Reed have crafted a thriller that not only entertains but also challenges readers to think critically about the nature of justice and morality. Whether you are a fan of crime fiction or a newcomer to the genre, this novel is sure to leave a lasting impression. Highly recommended for those looking for a gripping story that keeps them guessing until the very last page.
Blood Trail is a gripping thriller that expertly blends the taut suspense of a classic detective story with the raw intensity of a modern crime narrative. Co-authored by Steven Walker and Rick Reed, the novel takes readers on a harrowing journey through the darker sides of human nature, exploring themes of loss, vengeance, and the indelible bonds forged in the crucible of violence.
Intriguing Plotline
At the heart of Blood Trail is a relentless manhunt for a serial killer who has left a trail of bodies in his wake. The story follows the dedicated investigators who are determined to track down the perpetrator before he strikes again. Walker and Reed craft a narrative that is filled with tension and unexpected twists, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. The pacing is brisk, and the action is relentless, making it a page-turner from start to finish.
Character Development
One of the novel’s standout features is its well-drawn characters. The protagonists are deeply human, each grappling with their own demons while navigating the pressures of their work. The authors delve into the psyche of both the detectives and the killer, creating a complex portrait of morality and choices. As the investigation unfolds, readers gain insight into the motivations that drive each character, adding depth to the story and heightening emotional engagement.
Exploration of Themes
Blood Trail doesn’t shy away from exploring dark themes, such as the impact of trauma and the nuances of justice. Walker and Reed provide readers with a thought-provoking commentary on the consequences of violence—not only on the victims but also on the investigators seeking to uphold the law. The novel invites reflection on the nature of revenge and the moral complexities that arise when justice is pursued at any cost.
Vivid Descriptions and Atmosphere
The authors excel at creating a vivid atmosphere that complements the story’s intensity. Their descriptive writing brings each scene to life, whether it’s the unsettling quiet of a crime scene or the frantic chaos of a high-stakes chase. The setting plays a significant role in enhancing the mood, immersing readers in a world that feels both familiar and terrifying.
Conclusion: A Thrilling Read
Blood Trail is a masterful blend of suspense, character depth, and thematic richness. Steven Walker and Rick Reed have crafted a thriller that not only entertains but also challenges readers to think critically about the nature of justice and morality. Whether you are a fan of crime fiction or a newcomer to the genre, this novel is sure to leave a lasting impression. Highly recommended for those looking for a gripping story that keeps them guessing until the very last page.
January 12, 2018
JOSEPH W BROWN IS A VERY SICK, DEMENTED, & DISTURBED MAN....
June 15, 2009
on Thursday, April 12, 2007 I wrote about this book:
Finished reading last night (April 11 2007)
I had ordered 3 true crime books.
Body Count by Burl Barer and this book.
Another one An Invisible Man arrived yesterday which I am reading now and I consider the best of the 3
This book Blood Trail is better in my eyes than Body Count although not that great.
You are still left with questions, did he really kill those 13 women? I guess he just wanted the attention.
I liked the way the book was written and give it an 8
Finished reading last night (April 11 2007)
I had ordered 3 true crime books.
Body Count by Burl Barer and this book.
Another one An Invisible Man arrived yesterday which I am reading now and I consider the best of the 3
This book Blood Trail is better in my eyes than Body Count although not that great.
You are still left with questions, did he really kill those 13 women? I guess he just wanted the attention.
I liked the way the book was written and give it an 8
April 29, 2010
this book is about my mom (ginger gasaway) joe brown is the one that killed my mom and i cant believe this mans story to some degree. like mr reed says u cant believe every thing this man says. i do forgive him. like it says to do in the good book the bible but i dont have to forget. he will be judged when the time comes and i wish there was a book out there about my mom and her life. if there is any one interested in writing the book i got all the imformation u need to do so. e-mail me at care_bear374@yahoo.com
April 22, 2014
This book brought the chain of events into view. My heart went out to all involved. It was a dark time in the lives of many people. The book was a little too descriptive for my liking, but I understand it was a documentation of mad events. Some people should never slip through the cracks into society unchecked, it is only madness and mayhem in the end and for all they touch.
January 20, 2010
Book talked about a guy with hard luck but killed women. Had too many uses of the Fbomb for my taste.
February 22, 2012
The book had special meaning because it happened in an area I live in. It is chilling how close to home all of this was.
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews