Trans-Mongolian Express

"Trans Mongolian Express provides a glimpse into a world shaken by dramatic events, with captivating characters and intricate situations. . . intrigue, action, and an exploration of the human condition in the face of adversity, this book stands out as a captivating and thought-provoking read." -The Historical Fiction Company


In the harrowing aftermath of Chernobyl's meltdown in 1986, the fate of Eastern Europe hangs by a thread.

From Beijing, American radiation scientist Lara, once a thorn in the Russian mob's side, is drawn back into the shadows of the Soviet Union on the Trans-Mongolian Express. She isn't alone. Anton, a Soviet scientist exiled for predicting Chernobyl's catastrophe, is on a quest to expose the truth. Amidst them, Timur, a Chechen giant fueled by vengeance, plots to destroy the already crumbling Soviet Union.

Suddenly, a murder on the remote tracks of the Gobi thrusts them into a deadly game of cat and mouse. As Chief Sheriff Bat races to solve the murder, their lives are thrown into jeopardy. Lara finds an unexpected ally in Gang, a reluctant assassin sent to end her life, and an illicit romance blooms amidst the chaos. But Gang isn't the only killer onboard. A hidden menace lurks, threatening to unravel all their plans.

In this electrifying ride across a historical backdrop, suspense and passion collide in an unyielding dance of survival and redemption. Who will survive the Trans-Mongolian Express?




"Diplomats and internationals find themselves all traveling across China to the USSR, each to respond to the Chernobyl nuclear accident. A murder among them while traveling needs to be solved. An exciting read." -Netgalley Reviewer


"In a word: Wow! I would probably give this 6 stars if I could! This is probably one of the top-ten fiction books I've ever read! . . . This book has everything! . . . The 7 main characters, each with hidden motivations and secrets, are fleshed-out and believable. . ." -Netgalley Reviewer


"The Trans-Mongolian Express by David L. Robbins drops the reader into the developing Chernobyl melt-down in Russian held Ukraine. While the world holds its breath in the Soviet information black-out, the Trans-Mongolian Express carries an uncomfortable combination of compelling characters toward Moscow. Each character brings their own danger and threat. . . The scenery sounded spectacular. The food was frightening. The story is gripping." -Netgalley Reviewer


"Buckle your seatbelt and hang on to your hat when you open this spy thriller. . . A murder along the way sets the action and intrigue into high gear. Agatha Christie surrender. David L. Robbins has penned the ultimate murder-on-a-train novel. Exciting to the end." -Netgalley Reviewer


"Wow. I loved this. I thought it was smart, historically interesting. . . This was well-written, giving each of the 7 main characters a clear, individual voice. That's not easy to do. The historical significance of Chernobyl made this quite an accomplishment." -Netgalley Reviewer