I'll admit, I put off reading this book because I wasn't sure what to expect from a true crime read. In the past, I've found books on the subject to be dry, more textbook than immersive story. Michelle was a gifted writer. This is a must read if you are at all interested in real life 'how to catch a killer' type content.

This book flows in an effortless manner that has you discovering not only the facts about the case, but also the mind set for the people that research these type of cases. It was fascinating on so many levels. The lives the Golden State Killer touched, and the way Michelle was able to get people to open up to here, all enthralling. This case shaped California and DNA forensics.

I found it fascinating to watch her profile unfold, then be able to compare it to the real person behind the crimes. How much simpler of a life he lead. The fact that he had been entangled with the law but somehow escaped the DNA link up they needed to close the case.

I don't know if all of the versions of this book have been updated with the items after Patton's afterword, once the killer was caught, but if your version doesn't have them. I highly recommend seeking out a version that does. It gave a lot more emotional insight into the aftermath.

It's easy for the police to say, "this book didn't help solve the crime." They don't want to create more Michelle's. But it's clear in reading this book, that her dedication, and pieces on this case kept it alive. While it's reasonable to say that the DNA link was always going to be discovered, as those genealogy sites were bound to be the next step in catching criminals, I don't think it's as easy to admit that without her constant discussion on this case, it wouldn't have been the one selected to pursue in the sea of DNA matches genealogy is bringing to light.

How many other serial rapists are still uncaught because they don't have a fancy nickname or a slew of couch sleuths looking into their cases? More than any of us realize, I'm sure. Cold cases are abundant, dedicate minds like Michelle's, keep the hope of finding the killer alive.

TW: While the crimes such as rape, and murder are obviously discussed in the book. I also wanted to warn that victim statements, and emotional mindsets are also throughout the story. Michelle lays it out in a respectful manner, but if you are sensitive to these topics, know they are major aspects of the book. ( )

I really enjoyed most of this novel. I listened to the audiobook but I think I should have read it because there was so much information to take in. I felt like I should have been taking notes the whole way through just to make complete sense of everything. Even though this novel was a bit laboursome, I was completely blown away by the intelligence and determination of the author. Her writing when not simply listing facts was wonderful. It is unfortunate that she passed away before seeing the Golden State Killer behind bars. I intend to learn more on this subject and hope to read more of her writing in the future. I recommend this novel but you have to be in the right mood for it and be prepared to read and reread certain passages. Taking notes wouldn't hurt so you can get the full effect. ( )

NA ( )

4.5 stars rounded up.

Wrote a longer review for C-Spot Reviews but here's the gist: I enjoyed this book so much. There were times when I felt overwhelmed by all the information, names, and dates but by halfway through, I didn't want to stop listening. (I think this might have been easier to read with a physical copy or an ebook. Highlighting would have been helpful.)

This is more than just a true crime book (one without graphic violence and crime scene descriptions), it's a story about the author and her obsession.

I absolutely recommend.

https://cspotreview.wordpress.com/2018/05/04/cheri-reviews-ill-be-gone-in-the-da... ( )

choppy, disjointed, goes nowhere ( )