The Great Train Robbery — Reader discussion

I really appreciated how Michael Crichton combined suspense with historical detail in The Great Train Robbery. The way he painted the setting of 1855 London and the lengths the characters went to plan the heist made it feel both authentic and exciting. The novel manages to balance action with clever insights into the social and technological context of the era, which kept me hooked throughout. Did anyone else find the character of Edward Pierce particularly well-developed and complex?

What stood out to me was Crichton’s ability to make a historical event feel like a fast-paced thriller without sacrificing accuracy. The step-by-step planning and execution of the train robbery is so immersive that it almost feels like you’re part of the crew. I also liked how the book subtly explored themes of class and ingenuity. It’s definitely a great pick for readers who enjoy historical fiction with a smart plot. How did you feel about the pacing—did it keep your interest consistently?