And the Train Kept Moving

By: Michael Kiggins

Narrated by: Mark J Royse

And the Train Kept Moving is about Bryan Meigs, a gay alcoholic with OCD who struggles with the aftermath of getting date-raped and potentially infected with HIV. As Bryan works up the courage to confront his rapist, he must confront his present fears of infection, ghosts from his past, and brutal truths about himself.

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Deep Dive into Identity, Trauma, and Resilience

The author skillfully introduces Brian, whose journey is marked by the complex interplay of his identity as a gay man, his struggles with OCD, and a subtle battle with alcoholism. The story delves into the possible origins and profound impact of his OCD, providing a nuanced exploration of his internal world. Kiggins also keenly observes Brian's navigation through the intricacies of finding genuine connection within the broader gay culture, highlighting both the challenges and moments of solace.

What truly sets "And the Train Kept Moving" apart is its unflinching yet sensitive exploration of complex and darker themes that have profoundly shaped Brian's life. The story bravely confronts the shadows of childhood trauma, the pervasive grip of alcoholism, and the devastating impacts of rape and murder, illustrating how these profound experiences contribute to the story’s raw authenticity. Yet, amidst these harrowing realities, Kiggins consistently finds moments of profound humanity. The book powerfully illustrates how, even in the darkest times, connection, hope, and the will to survive can flourish, as Brian grapples with the arduous process of reconciling his past and doing what needs to be done to move forward in life.

Such descriptive imagery

Wow… So I’m not mutch of a book reader, I picked up ‘And the train kept moving’ when it first came out, and would read some here and there, but just sat down and finished it from beginning to end, and again… Wow.
The detailed imagery pulls you into the story like you’re a fly on the wall, or someone sitting in the next booth, taking in the show happening around you. The story has you laughing, smirking, thinking ‘I got that obscure reference’ or ‘I need to find his karaoke D.J.’, making you angry and saying F.T.W., or just people in general.
On top of it being so well written, it also gave a lot of good history and insight into what was happening in the U.S. from the prospective of the community that was mostly ignored or dismissed in the ‘80s & ‘90s.
Can’t wait for the author’s next book.

Gritty, Heartfelt Page-Turner of a Debut Novel!

Mike Kiggins' debut novel promises big things for this writer's future. At once gritty and heartfelt, "And the Train Kept Moving" is an impressive book, with strong, well-developed characters, an interesting structure, and some witty, often poetic prose. It tells the story of Brian, an incredibly complex gay man, whose insecurities and character flaws are the result of overwhelming twin traumas--a recent date rape and childhood sexual abuse suffered at the hand of an older half-brother (compounded by their mother’s refusal to accept it happened). Brian's pretty fucked up, but that's precisely why he's such a compelling and likable character. The novel's a wild ride, full of friendship, harsh betrayals, sex, drink & drugs, and even a little rock and roll as Brian battles his way to the next chapter of his life. Will he go down in flames fueled by his combustible past, or will he rise, Phoenix-like, and finally master his destiny? Read the book and find out. You won't be sorry.