Jim Head launches faith-driven Western mystery set in 1887 Colorado

Jim Head has released Blood on the Sawdust Trail, the first Circuit Rider Mysteries novel, set in Redemption, Colorado, in the summer of 1887. The book centers on a preacher drawn into a murder case after a public repentance turns into a killing at the altar, mixing frontier suspense with Christian themes.

Why it matters: - Blood on the Sawdust Trail expands the Western mystery genre with a faith-centered story set on the American frontier. - The novel blends historical fiction, suspense and Christian themes, aiming at readers who want detective-style plotting with moral questions. - The book is now available through secure your copy here.

What happened: - Author Jim Head released Blood on the Sawdust Trail, the first book in the Circuit Rider Mysteries series. - The story is set in Redemption, Colorado, during the summer of 1887. - Reverend Elias Cane, a circuit-riding preacher, becomes involved in a murder investigation. - The plot opens during a week-long revival meeting. - Silas Moon, a land speculator known for fraudulent dealings that have harmed local families, publicly repents before the congregation. - Moments later, Silas Moon is found murdered at the altar. - The murder weapon is the revival’s ceremonial knife. - Nearly 200 witnesses see the aftermath, but the crowd still leaves little clarity about the killer. - Deputy Marshal Grace Holloway teams up with Reverend Elias Cane to solve the case.

The details: - The investigation leads into hidden identities, long-buried secrets and personal vendettas. - The novel uses frontier justice and Christian faith as central themes. - Jim Head frames the story around greed, redemption, forgiveness and truth. - The book also explores the tension between mercy and justice in a frontier community. - Reverend Elias Cane is portrayed as a preacher forced to confront injustice as well as deliver sermons. - The series is intended for readers of historical mysteries, Western fiction, inspirational suspense and character-driven detective stories. - Jim Head describes the Circuit Rider Mysteries as combining historical authenticity, Christian values and classic mystery storytelling.

Between the lines: - The setup gives the series a built-in conflict: a man of faith must pursue truth in a community where almost everyone has a motive. - The murder-at-revival premise signals a blend of genre appeal, using a classic Western backdrop to frame a closed-circle mystery. - The focus on redemption and conscience suggests the series is aiming to be as much about character and ethics as about solving the crime.

What's next: - Jim Head is positioning Blood on the Sawdust Trail as the start of a series that will continue the mix of frontier setting, faith and mystery. - The book is available now, and review copies and interview requests are being handled through the contact listed in the release. - Readers can access the announcement and purchase link through the company’s provided book page.