Gabra Zackman artfully narrates this incredible true-crime story from Hungary in the 1920s. Zackman balances the historical details with the medical ones in recounting how a rural midwife started a killing spree that was carried out by women of all ages who poisoned people with arsenic. Zackman makes this interesting story even more intriguing by telling it in a conversational tone that fans of true-crime podcasts will recognize. She makes the most of the infamous "Aunty Suzy," the ringleader in this macabre tale. Listeners will be hanging on every word as they hear of the near domino effect the use of arsenic had on the women in Aunty Suzy's sphere. For fans of true crime, this is a treat of a listening experience.
Pub Date: March 14, 2023
Duration: 10 hrs, 45 mins
DD ISBN: 9780063275065
Publisher: Harper Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
TRUE CRIME | HISTORY | WORLD
A fascinating look into the beginnings of true-crime writing.
In this audio original, author Dawson (American Sherlock, 2020) turns her attention to a series of brutal crimes that led to breakthroughs in crime-solving using forensics. With a serviceable and intelligent narration, Dawson focuses on two horrific crimes known as the Ratcliffe Highway Murders. In 1811, two families living five blocks apart were slaughtered in their homes. These senseless, apparently motiveless murders not only inspired new methods of police investigation, they also piqued the imaginations of notable writers. Dawson connects the Ratcliffe Highway Murders to Poe’s “Murders in the Rue Morgue” and Conan Doyle’s A Study in Scarlet.
A fascinating look into the beginnings of true-crime writing.Pub Date: Oct. 20, 2026
Duration: 3 hrs
DD ISBN: 9798217355594
Publisher: Penguin Audio
Review Posted Online: Sept. 29, 2026
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Nov. 15, 2026
A meticulously researched true-crime story.
Narrator Reginald James delivers this story of corruption in the often overlooked small town of Ozark, Alabama, in an authoritative yet empathetic tone. In 1999, two white teenage girls were found murdered, and years later, a suspect was found guilty based on DNA evidence. Kessler offers a nuanced portrayal of a rural corner of the Bible Belt where white supremacy still reigns. And he adds a modern twist, with a group of internet investigators chasing leads. Through years of meticulous research, Kessler follows the heartbreaking and twisted case, which officials have stamped closed but still seems unsettled. James shines when scenes of the characters’ frustration evoke anxiety.
A meticulously researched true-crime story.Pub Date: Oct. 6, 2026
Duration: 10 hrs, 25 mins
DD ISBN: 9781668659632
Publisher: Hachette Audio
Review Posted Online: Oct. 20, 2026
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Dec. 1, 2026
© Copyright 2026 Kirkus Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.
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