Book Review: Spokane back then: The Cold Millions

Jess Walter is a bestselling author from Spokane, and his latest book, The Cold Millions, will further demonstrate his prowess as a weaver of beautiful plot and captivating characters. The books title refers to all those folks who live just beyond the edges of polite and high society; the drifters, the riders of the rail and folks looking to move on from a previous life. The title also plays on the dramatic difference in wealth among those who happen to come into control of resources and the chilling effect those riches take on their true happiness.

The central character, Ryan Dolan, turns 17...