What do you think?
Rate this book
The Big Bend Country Mysteries #1
The Window Trail
What could go wrong on a spring break trek down the storied Window Trail at Big Bend National Park in Texas? For Assistant Professor Claire Harp, a terrifying incident at the canyon drop-off at the end of the hike merely hints of troubles to come. Drawn into a murder investigation that rocks the small town of Alpine, Claire finds herself involved with both a famous writer and an appealing young captain from a sheriff's office baffled by a homicide that points in too many directions. What she discovers on her own is a crime of a whole different sort. Full of sly humor, local color, and characters fresh off the range, "The Window Trail" will keep you guessing and guessing again.
285 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 3, 2018
21 people are currently reading
804 people want to read
About the author
J.J. Rusz
4 books30 followersJ J RUSZ is the author of The Window Trail (2018), The South Rim Trail (2019), The Lost Mine Trail (2020), and The Mule Ears (2023), the first four books in the Big Bend Country Mystery series, focusing on crime, romance, and a little humor in Far West Texas. The region includes Big Bend National Park and its surrounding communities, including Alpine, Marathon, Fort Davis, Terlingua, Lajitas, and Marfa. Website for the series is at jjrbigbend.com .
J J Rusz is the pen name for John J Ruszkiewicz, who was born in Cleveland, Ohio, earned a BA from St. Vincent College in 1972 and a PhD in English from The Ohio State University in 1977. He is the author of a wide range of college textbooks, including Everything's an Argument and How to Write Anything.
Rusz is retired from the University of Texas at Austin, where he taught literature, rhetoric, and composition for 40 years. He currently spends most of his time in Alpine, Texas.
J J Rusz is the pen name for John J Ruszkiewicz, who was born in Cleveland, Ohio, earned a BA from St. Vincent College in 1972 and a PhD in English from The Ohio State University in 1977. He is the author of a wide range of college textbooks, including Everything's an Argument and How to Write Anything.
Rusz is retired from the University of Texas at Austin, where he taught literature, rhetoric, and composition for 40 years. He currently spends most of his time in Alpine, Texas.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
November 27, 2020
Great plot
You have a modern western playing out like an old time western.
You have a Deputy who is shy around women and with the Sheriff out for medical problems he is investigating a big murder mystery.
You have a young man who committed suicide, or did he? And his friend that loved him that started writing to the creative writing professor that he thinks that he was murdered.
You have your rich land barron who everyone thinks either he or his son murdered the mistress they shared.
And last to join this cast of characters is the professor who made a bundle of money with a book deal. He also thinks he is God's gift to women.
All together and you have a great read.
You have a modern western playing out like an old time western.
You have a Deputy who is shy around women and with the Sheriff out for medical problems he is investigating a big murder mystery.
You have a young man who committed suicide, or did he? And his friend that loved him that started writing to the creative writing professor that he thinks that he was murdered.
You have your rich land barron who everyone thinks either he or his son murdered the mistress they shared.
And last to join this cast of characters is the professor who made a bundle of money with a book deal. He also thinks he is God's gift to women.
All together and you have a great read.
January 17, 2019
I won this book in a goodreads drawing.
A college professor goes on a hike. On the way back, she and her compatriots see a coyote with a hand in it's mouth. She reports it, and meets with the handsome deputy. The rest follows as night follows day.
The mystery itself is pretty predictable, too.
The problem is that the author can't quite end the book. There's at least three false endings, and the book finally staggers to halt, like car that runs out of gas.
A college professor goes on a hike. On the way back, she and her compatriots see a coyote with a hand in it's mouth. She reports it, and meets with the handsome deputy. The rest follows as night follows day.
The mystery itself is pretty predictable, too.
The problem is that the author can't quite end the book. There's at least three false endings, and the book finally staggers to halt, like car that runs out of gas.
November 7, 2019
This is a well plotted enjoyable Texan story where the folks say "ma'am" and just can't help themselves. We are introduced to a young and handsome deputy sheriff who is instrumental in investigating the murder of a local woman who led a complicated life. He meets a young and attractive English professor in the line of duty, so bringing these two characters together is a happy event. I want to call it a Texas romance, but it's more than that.
A complex web of deceit is the root of several bad acts and the solving of the mystery requires both the brains and the brawn of our two major characters.
The world of publishing and the natural beauty of the area both play major roles.
Kindle Unlimited
A complex web of deceit is the root of several bad acts and the solving of the mystery requires both the brains and the brawn of our two major characters.
The world of publishing and the natural beauty of the area both play major roles.
Kindle Unlimited
February 5, 2019
Since I live in the Southwest, I could really relate to this story set in southern Texas and the wilds of Big Bend National Park. Although I figured out the "who-dunnit" about a third of the way in, it was still an exciting and meaningful mystery full of twists ans turns. There are several plots going on at once that weave themselves together at the end. And there is a nice romance blooming between the main characters. Clayton, the deputy and Claire, the English professor. They are compelling and well-developed characters who come from very different backgrounds. Murder brings them together and keeps their paths crossing throughout the book. Another important character, Mote, is already dead when the book starts, but has an important role in the story. He loved the beauty and wildness of the Big Bend area and was able to capture the essence of it in writing. When you read this book you will feel like you are in Texas; you can almost smell and feel it around you. The book was well written and perceptive. I received a copy as a Goodreads Giveaway and I thank them for introducing me to a fine new author!
November 2, 2019
J.J. Rusz created The Window Trail as A Big Bend Country Mystery. It is a well-written story that also illustrates the beauty of Texas desert. This story opens with a trek along the trails of Big B that can change in a moment when college students are retracing a book, they’d read of an apparent suicide by one of the local college students.
Professor Claire Harp is a likeable character as she is settling into to life at the remote university. She ends up finding more than anyone expected, including the local law, Deputy Clayton Shoot. Desert scenery and trails are described in vivid detail reminding one of how unforgiving it can be to those who forget to respect its wildness.
Claire’s return drive after a hike to the site of the suicide, results in she and one of the students she had shepherded to the area seeing something unbelievable. The disturbing appendage was being carried off by a desert resident revealed by the headlight of her car. The investigation that follows throws Claire and Clayton together to find the truth. For anyone who has been to this part of Texas the descriptions Rusz provides, allows the reader to feel like they are beside Claire.
"They had just rounded a hill, the land rocky and thick with mesquite and prickly pear-real ranch country. On the left, still at some distance and far above a steep pasture accessible by a dirt road, Claire saw what Clayton had called out, huge birds wheeling in effortless arcs across the sky-maybe a done or more at different altitudes paths crossing in purposeful dance centered upon something on the ground far below.
“A murder of crows,” she muttered.
“They’re vultures, ma’am. Turkey vultures."
Rusz is a master at drawing readers into the blackmail, romance, mystery, murder, and small-town gossip presented in this story. It is worth the time to let it take you away on a page turning thriller. You won’t want to quit reading even when you learn its secrets.
Professor Claire Harp is a likeable character as she is settling into to life at the remote university. She ends up finding more than anyone expected, including the local law, Deputy Clayton Shoot. Desert scenery and trails are described in vivid detail reminding one of how unforgiving it can be to those who forget to respect its wildness.
Claire’s return drive after a hike to the site of the suicide, results in she and one of the students she had shepherded to the area seeing something unbelievable. The disturbing appendage was being carried off by a desert resident revealed by the headlight of her car. The investigation that follows throws Claire and Clayton together to find the truth. For anyone who has been to this part of Texas the descriptions Rusz provides, allows the reader to feel like they are beside Claire.
"They had just rounded a hill, the land rocky and thick with mesquite and prickly pear-real ranch country. On the left, still at some distance and far above a steep pasture accessible by a dirt road, Claire saw what Clayton had called out, huge birds wheeling in effortless arcs across the sky-maybe a done or more at different altitudes paths crossing in purposeful dance centered upon something on the ground far below.
“A murder of crows,” she muttered.
“They’re vultures, ma’am. Turkey vultures."
Rusz is a master at drawing readers into the blackmail, romance, mystery, murder, and small-town gossip presented in this story. It is worth the time to let it take you away on a page turning thriller. You won’t want to quit reading even when you learn its secrets.
October 28, 2023
Intriguing Murder Mystery
Oh, this is a great story and I'm excited that it is the first in a series. I left this book in my TBR pile for way too long! This story is set in the beautiful arid Big Bend area of Texas. The story begins with a bang and becomes more convoluted as the book goes on. There is a romance brewing in the background, while the foreground has so many angles, information leaks, and gossip that create a mountain of misinformation. I loved the story on all levels. It flowed beautifully. It also ended a little differently than I had planned. I am going to jump in and read the next book.
Oh, this is a great story and I'm excited that it is the first in a series. I left this book in my TBR pile for way too long! This story is set in the beautiful arid Big Bend area of Texas. The story begins with a bang and becomes more convoluted as the book goes on. There is a romance brewing in the background, while the foreground has so many angles, information leaks, and gossip that create a mountain of misinformation. I loved the story on all levels. It flowed beautifully. It also ended a little differently than I had planned. I am going to jump in and read the next book.
February 29, 2020
I loved the writing (Coyote. Two syllables.). The thoughts and expressions flow effortlessly from the author. Equal to the writing, the plot is well-designed and revealed at the perfect pace. As with all good mysteries, just enough clues are left to challenge the reader to solve the crime.
The characters are a joy; beautiful and yet also self-deprecating and flawed.
At first there seems to be too many characters and too many plot lines, but the author ties up all the loose ends. I would definitely read this author again.
The characters are a joy; beautiful and yet also self-deprecating and flawed.
At first there seems to be too many characters and too many plot lines, but the author ties up all the loose ends. I would definitely read this author again.
August 6, 2023
Without a doubt, one of the best pieces of regional fiction. The details ore there: Holland Ave. and Hotel, Judy’s Bread and Breakfast, Sul Ross State University and highway 118 to Big Bend National Park. The plot and characters are honest in development and to the region. Spring Break at Big Bend National Park where a crime occurs and brings in an Asst professor from Sul Ross and an appealing Sheriff's Deputy. One of the best mysteries I’ve read with unexpected plot twists not mention that it's in Alpine, Texas!
July 18, 2018
A great summer read
This held my attention on several levels. It’s a good mystery that had some interesting twists to the end. I’m now thinking about a road trip to Big Bend country because of the descriptions. Most of all, however, I liked the wry sense of humor that permeated the entire book.
This held my attention on several levels. It’s a good mystery that had some interesting twists to the end. I’m now thinking about a road trip to Big Bend country because of the descriptions. Most of all, however, I liked the wry sense of humor that permeated the entire book.
January 13, 2019
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway.
I give it a middling rating because I had guessed the murder and motive long before the big reveal. Normally, that would annoy me but I really liked the characters and the setting. I found myself reading not so much to see how the story ended, but what happened to the characters.
I'm looking forward to reading more of this series.
I give it a middling rating because I had guessed the murder and motive long before the big reveal. Normally, that would annoy me but I really liked the characters and the setting. I found myself reading not so much to see how the story ended, but what happened to the characters.
I'm looking forward to reading more of this series.
September 19, 2018
This was a great read! The scenery is described so well out in West Texas: the skies, everlasting roads, down to the critters and plants. I don’t usually read westerns, but the continuous twists kept me reading, along with interesting characters (especially Sam!). As I got to know them, I kept wanting more. The story becomes denser, more complex as you’re pointing your finger alongside them. I loved getting caught off guard!
January 9, 2019
I'm about 1/3 of the way in, and have no real desire to get back to this book. It seems the author tries to find ways to insert adjectives everywhere to the point the words become stumbling blocks. I have no interest in the characters and whether they get romantically attached or not. Boring.
June 29, 2019
4 1\2 stars
This is the first book I've read by this author but I hope it won't be the last. Good mystery, likeable characters and the descriptions of the Bend Bend area were poetic. I would definitely read book 2 of the series.
This is the first book I've read by this author but I hope it won't be the last. Good mystery, likeable characters and the descriptions of the Bend Bend area were poetic. I would definitely read book 2 of the series.
May 23, 2020
5 stars mainly because this book made me feel as if I was out in West Texas eating a cinnamon roll and drinking coffee at Judy’s. Predictable? Yes but enjoyable nevertheless. I ordered the second book today.
December 16, 2021
Awesome book!
This book is great for lovers of the Big Bend area. It's got everything from a murder, a romance, humor, and a satisfying ending. Can't wait to read the next in the series.
This book is great for lovers of the Big Bend area. It's got everything from a murder, a romance, humor, and a satisfying ending. Can't wait to read the next in the series.
May 29, 2022
Great story. I picked it up in the book store mentioned by the bait Joe as part of the story. I decided to read it because I like the area that is the backdrop for the book. I would have given it 5 stars but the editors missed more than a dozen typos.
March 8, 2024
Solid detective / crime novel set in one of my favorite places, Big Bend country! Had a nostalgic, western feel to it and was fun to see places I know amongst the story. Figured out the killer / motive about halfway through but it was still pretty satisfying.
December 23, 2018
Enjoyable read
I won an e-copy of this book. I found it to be an above average mystery with likable characters and dual plot lines.
I won an e-copy of this book. I found it to be an above average mystery with likable characters and dual plot lines.
January 13, 2019
Another new mystery series. Interesting characters and intriguing location in Western Texas.
May 21, 2019
Great relays between the characters. Nice escalation to the climax.
December 31, 2019
Like a visit to Big Bend with interesting people
A multi layered story with surprises pleasing scenes. So pleased that I came across this book. Now I have to go to Big Bend!
A multi layered story with surprises pleasing scenes. So pleased that I came across this book. Now I have to go to Big Bend!
February 6, 2023
Enjoyable book from AU. Started it while at Big Bend national Park. Will read the second book in the series. Next time I go.
July 14, 2023
Highest praise for an incredibly remarkable book! The cast of characters and plot are so richly created you can’t help to long for just one more page…and one more…and one more. Absolutely addictive and poetically beautiful. The Window Trail creates a love and utmost fondness for the wild of West Texas, Big Bend NP, and the strong people of this gritty region. Even if you’ve never been to Big Bend, you’ll get the desire to hit the trails reverently titled.
April 16, 2024
Better than expected. Author is familiar with Alpine, Marfa, Fort Davis, Terlingua topography and culture as well as favorite local hangouts. Enjoyable characters and plot.
July 30, 2024
Good Ole fashioned Texas mystery!
January 5, 2026
Absolutely loved this book and that I knew where everything was taken place. Can't wait to read the next book
August 10, 2023
Big Bend Country Mystery series, Book #1. I was in a bookstore when I overheard someone ask for a recommendation of a novel that took place in that town. She said she buys a novel set in each place she visits. I thought that was such a fun idea! So when I was visiting Alpine, TX, I asked at Front Street Books what local novel they recommended, and they suggested this one. I am a big fan of murder mysteries, so this was a perfect fit for me. I loved reading about the landscapes and drives that I had just taken and local stores, restaurants, and ball fields. I have not hiked the Window Trail but I have been to the Window View overlook and could easily imagine the setting. The characters are likable and the story was engaging. Although the ending was a bit predictable and I found a few grammatical errors, it was overall a very enjoyable read and a fun way to remember Alpine. I can't wait to pick up the next book in the series the next time I'm at Front Street.
This book is part of my project to read one book I own each month and then decide if I want to keep it or not. This is my January 2023 book. I am keeping this one, after I pass it around first.
This book is part of my project to read one book I own each month and then decide if I want to keep it or not. This is my January 2023 book. I am keeping this one, after I pass it around first.
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews