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Anthrax to Zodiac: A Snarky PI Delves into the Most Notorious Unsolved Mysteries of the Past 150 Years
The new true crime anthology from private investigator and award-winning author Denise Diana Huddle...
BIOLOGICAL ATTACKS, KIDNAPPINGS, HIJACKINGS, HORRIFIC MURDERS THAT ROCKED THE NATION
—AND WERE NEVER SOLVED.
Reeling from the devastation of 9/11, America anxiously waited for the other shoe to drop. Then the anthrax letters came, branded by the FBI as the worst biological attacks in US history. Despite a lengthy and expensive investigation, no suspect was ever charged.
In 1969, as the first astronaut stepped on the moon and 350,000 Americans flocked to Woodstock, the Zodiac killer terrorized California residents, claiming his murder victims would be his slaves in the afterlife. Despite one of the longest-running investigations in the state’s history, the killer has never been identified.
Journey back through time from 2001 to 1892 as veteran PI Denise Huddle brings her field-honed investigative skills and trademark snark to her in-depth examination of seven of America’s most notorious unsolved mysteries. Who mailed the anthrax letters? Who killed JonBenét Ramsey? Who was D.B. Cooper? Who was the Zodiac Killer? Who killed the Black Dahlia? Who really kidnapped the Lindbergh baby? Who killed Lizzie Borden’s parents?
From A to Z, Huddle lays out the events and evidence, identifies patterns, and tests theories. As disturbing details of the mysteries that have haunted America over the last century are revealed, the cases you thought you knew may not be so clear-cut after all.
You be the judge. Who did it?
BIOLOGICAL ATTACKS, KIDNAPPINGS, HIJACKINGS, HORRIFIC MURDERS THAT ROCKED THE NATION
—AND WERE NEVER SOLVED.
Reeling from the devastation of 9/11, America anxiously waited for the other shoe to drop. Then the anthrax letters came, branded by the FBI as the worst biological attacks in US history. Despite a lengthy and expensive investigation, no suspect was ever charged.
In 1969, as the first astronaut stepped on the moon and 350,000 Americans flocked to Woodstock, the Zodiac killer terrorized California residents, claiming his murder victims would be his slaves in the afterlife. Despite one of the longest-running investigations in the state’s history, the killer has never been identified.
Journey back through time from 2001 to 1892 as veteran PI Denise Huddle brings her field-honed investigative skills and trademark snark to her in-depth examination of seven of America’s most notorious unsolved mysteries. Who mailed the anthrax letters? Who killed JonBenét Ramsey? Who was D.B. Cooper? Who was the Zodiac Killer? Who killed the Black Dahlia? Who really kidnapped the Lindbergh baby? Who killed Lizzie Borden’s parents?
From A to Z, Huddle lays out the events and evidence, identifies patterns, and tests theories. As disturbing details of the mysteries that have haunted America over the last century are revealed, the cases you thought you knew may not be so clear-cut after all.
You be the judge. Who did it?
379 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 30, 2024
105 people are currently reading
94 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
November 27, 2024
This was interesting. My only issue was that I expected, from the title, that the Zodiac Killer piece would be last and it was not. Just odd. I’d recommend it, though.
April 17, 2024
This was my first time reading a true crime book and I was really impressed with how the author portrayed the stories.
There are seven stories in total, each story has it’s on segment. The author does include her own thoughts but mainly focuses on the facts.
The two stories that really stood out to me are the Anthrax story and JonBenet Ramsey. Some of facts the author has reported about absolutely amazed/stunned me.
For me, as a U.K. reader, although hearing about most of these crimes I have never really read anything in-depth, so this was a real eye opener.
You can see how much thought and effort has gone into this book, not only by how the crimes are portrayed but also, all the extra information that the author has taken the time to add at the end of each section.
All in all, a very informative and interesting read.
There are seven stories in total, each story has it’s on segment. The author does include her own thoughts but mainly focuses on the facts.
The two stories that really stood out to me are the Anthrax story and JonBenet Ramsey. Some of facts the author has reported about absolutely amazed/stunned me.
For me, as a U.K. reader, although hearing about most of these crimes I have never really read anything in-depth, so this was a real eye opener.
You can see how much thought and effort has gone into this book, not only by how the crimes are portrayed but also, all the extra information that the author has taken the time to add at the end of each section.
All in all, a very informative and interesting read.
April 11, 2024
This was an informative and educational yet at times witty approach to discussing multiple unsolved notorious crimes in a fairly quick and easy adult digestible way. I appreciated that each section was broken down into sort of mini book sections. All that said, I felt like the male narrator was weird and felt out of place and unnecessary. This wasn’t my favorite true crime audio book but it was good.
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February 1, 2026I received a piece of this book through audio version, and maybe that’s why I couldn’t really get into it…maybe reading it would have been better. As far as true crime goes, it’s good. But obviously very little mystery aspect.
July 13, 2024
*** NO SPOILERS ***
The author has taken a number of the best known unresolved mysteries and given the reader a detailed look at what is known, what that information does and does not mean, where the holes are, what contradictory information exists, different interpretations, and weaves them together for the reader. Unlike the many different "I know who Jack the Ripper was and can prove it" which all take a set of the available information that "proves" their theory while ignoring the rest, this book doesn't claim to definitively solve any of the cases. What it does set out to do and I think succeeds at doing is frame the story, fill in the details, explain many things, informs the readers of things they didn't know and things they thought they "knew" but which are incorrect. It also has an extensive amount of documentation identified and linked for the reader who wants to dig even further.
A few additional comments and opinions related to the book and its author.
First, I think it is unfortunate that some reviewers don't actually do so, or leave bad ratings for what I consider are inappropriate reasons. Two and three star ratings (which hurt) with no explanation as to why. A one star rating because the reader expected something different from the book even though the description of the book was clear as to what was being provided. Punishing the author for not providing what you expected? Really? REALLY?????
Second, I think the author did an excellent job (hence five starts) and I'd really like to see a second book with a similar examination of other unsolved mysteries. I can think of a few right off the top of my head, and I'm guessing other readers do as well.
Third and finally, I recommend this book strongly as I indicated in the heading. It was interesting. It was well written. I enjoyed it. I strongly suspect you will as well.
I received a review copy in exchange for an honest and objective review.
*** NO SPOILERS ***
The author has taken a number of the best known unresolved mysteries and given the reader a detailed look at what is known, what that information does and does not mean, where the holes are, what contradictory information exists, different interpretations, and weaves them together for the reader. Unlike the many different "I know who Jack the Ripper was and can prove it" which all take a set of the available information that "proves" their theory while ignoring the rest, this book doesn't claim to definitively solve any of the cases. What it does set out to do and I think succeeds at doing is frame the story, fill in the details, explain many things, informs the readers of things they didn't know and things they thought they "knew" but which are incorrect. It also has an extensive amount of documentation identified and linked for the reader who wants to dig even further.
A few additional comments and opinions related to the book and its author.
First, I think it is unfortunate that some reviewers don't actually do so, or leave bad ratings for what I consider are inappropriate reasons. Two and three star ratings (which hurt) with no explanation as to why. A one star rating because the reader expected something different from the book even though the description of the book was clear as to what was being provided. Punishing the author for not providing what you expected? Really? REALLY?????
Second, I think the author did an excellent job (hence five starts) and I'd really like to see a second book with a similar examination of other unsolved mysteries. I can think of a few right off the top of my head, and I'm guessing other readers do as well.
Third and finally, I recommend this book strongly as I indicated in the heading. It was interesting. It was well written. I enjoyed it. I strongly suspect you will as well.
I received a review copy in exchange for an honest and objective review.
*** NO SPOILERS ***
April 30, 2024
I was provided with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Despite being familiar with every single case in this book I am amazed with how engaging and enlightening the book was.
Hats off to Denise for doing such thorough research into each of the cases beyond what one may find on page one of Google. Obviously, to be expected from an investigator.
I absolutely adored the structure in which the book was written, how each case had sections ranging from basic background information to more detailed sections, down to relevant dates and times. I must also give props to Denise for being able to be an unbiased narrator as I know it can be hard, especially when dealing with certain cases, so for that, thank you.
I was also pleasantly surprised to find a bibliography at the end of each case! This really has provided me with more further reading than anticipated. I also enjoyed the links throughout the chapters linking the reader to relevant information.
Lastly, the 'Investigator's comments' chapters must have been some of my favourites. I absolutely respected that Denise has essentially waited until these specific chapters to voice her own opinions rather than having them scattered throughout the cases. This allowed for a reader to be able to come to their own conclusions and almost feel like they are having a dialogue with the author.
I certainly recommedn this book to everyone interested in true crime.
Despite being familiar with every single case in this book I am amazed with how engaging and enlightening the book was.
Hats off to Denise for doing such thorough research into each of the cases beyond what one may find on page one of Google. Obviously, to be expected from an investigator.
I absolutely adored the structure in which the book was written, how each case had sections ranging from basic background information to more detailed sections, down to relevant dates and times. I must also give props to Denise for being able to be an unbiased narrator as I know it can be hard, especially when dealing with certain cases, so for that, thank you.
I was also pleasantly surprised to find a bibliography at the end of each case! This really has provided me with more further reading than anticipated. I also enjoyed the links throughout the chapters linking the reader to relevant information.
Lastly, the 'Investigator's comments' chapters must have been some of my favourites. I absolutely respected that Denise has essentially waited until these specific chapters to voice her own opinions rather than having them scattered throughout the cases. This allowed for a reader to be able to come to their own conclusions and almost feel like they are having a dialogue with the author.
I certainly recommedn this book to everyone interested in true crime.
April 8, 2024
Anthrax to Zodiac is a true crime novel that summarizes the events surrounding 7 of the most notorious unsolved crimes in American history. What I really loved about this book is that it gives a detailed breakdown of the crime and the subsequent investigation but not in an overwhelming way like some true crime novels do. The author lays out the facts, offers some of her opinions, but mostly just sticks to the facts as well as delves into some of the biggest theories and suspects out there. Each crime is in a separate section, which allows you to easily just read one story at a time. I love the snarky attitude of the author as well. I listened to the audio version of this book as well, and I really found her dry humor and sarcasm to be right on point. She definitely livened up the telling of these stories with her witt. This book does have many pictures of key evidence and the author also gives us a detailed list of places we can find more information on each individual crime if we feel the need to dive deeper into a particular crime or theory. I found each story well rounded, and although I am a huge true crime buff, the author still managed to bring to my attention new details that I hadn't previous known in each segment. This was a refreshing and fun true crime book and is definitely a great read whether you are new to true crime or a seasoned veteran.
April 24, 2024
Such a great, educational, and humorous listen!
Plot: 5📍
Spice: 0.5🌶️*
Overall: 4.5⭐
And I’m so impressed that Denise Diana Huddle both wrote the book and narrated the book herself.
She added interesting insight to cases so well know they’ve become ingrained in our pop culture. Some of these I remember happening in real time and being horrified, regardless of how young I was.
Her humor, her sarcasm, her wit, and her analytics all come through well, hit at the right point in time in her narrative, and keep the a great pace of what could potentially be a dry retelling of common knowledge.
Instead, I found myself leaning into the stories - for that’s what it almost felt like. Sitting with a brilliant friend, gossiping about the latest salacious stories to hit the news!
I thoroughly enjoyed these tales, some old, some newer, and genuinely hope she continues this vein of writing.
Perhaps a snarky series of contumacious crimes?
Favorite Quote:
"Don’t confuse feminist independence with fool-hardy risk taking ... Just because you are a self-determined professional woman fully equipped with your own set of big girl panties, does not mean you should ever go into any situation where you don’t feel safe."
*hints of sex for favors, multiple affairs, and more
Plot: 5📍
Spice: 0.5🌶️*
Overall: 4.5⭐
And I’m so impressed that Denise Diana Huddle both wrote the book and narrated the book herself.
She added interesting insight to cases so well know they’ve become ingrained in our pop culture. Some of these I remember happening in real time and being horrified, regardless of how young I was.
Her humor, her sarcasm, her wit, and her analytics all come through well, hit at the right point in time in her narrative, and keep the a great pace of what could potentially be a dry retelling of common knowledge.
Instead, I found myself leaning into the stories - for that’s what it almost felt like. Sitting with a brilliant friend, gossiping about the latest salacious stories to hit the news!
I thoroughly enjoyed these tales, some old, some newer, and genuinely hope she continues this vein of writing.
Perhaps a snarky series of contumacious crimes?
Favorite Quote:
"Don’t confuse feminist independence with fool-hardy risk taking ... Just because you are a self-determined professional woman fully equipped with your own set of big girl panties, does not mean you should ever go into any situation where you don’t feel safe."
*hints of sex for favors, multiple affairs, and more
April 7, 2024
For lovers of true crime, this book reviews several well-known unsolved crimes, including the murder of JonBenet Ramsey and the Bordens. As someone who has read lots of true crime, I sometimes struggle with finding the right balance. An entire book on one crime can often become tedious and too granular with the detail. A book that covers a multitude of crimes can be lacking, only providing a page or two for each one. This book is the middle ground between the two extremes. The author provides a synopsis of each case and presents the main facts before giving her own opinion on the investigation based on her own investigative background. She also provided multiple links on each case at the end of each section, which is nice if you are particularly interested in a specific crime and would like to know more.
One thing I would have liked to see was more information about the author’s professional career as a private investigator—maybe a chapter at the beginning of the book to set the stage for all the cases and her opinion on each to follow. Even without this, though, I still really enjoyed delving into these cases and hearing the author’s thoughts.
Thank you to the author for a copy of this book.
One thing I would have liked to see was more information about the author’s professional career as a private investigator—maybe a chapter at the beginning of the book to set the stage for all the cases and her opinion on each to follow. Even without this, though, I still really enjoyed delving into these cases and hearing the author’s thoughts.
Thank you to the author for a copy of this book.
December 20, 2024
I should have paid more attention to her subtitle about being snarky. The PI and author really really is snarky...almost too much so. Anyway, the book was interesting, especially the section on Lindbergh and his possible involvement in the death of his baby boy. I knew basics about a lot of these cases, but Huddle goes into deep dive on the people and the possibilities which made for interesting reading. I knew LIndbergh was a creep, since I did a lot of papers and talks about eugenics in America (I'm Deaf so personal interest in this possibly raising its ugly head again). I didn't know how bad a creep he was...actually went to look up his wife, and she was in with him as concerns their Nazism. The possibility that he was involved in the kidnapping and death of his son because his son was disabled, makes me just disgusted with him...no matter what else he did in his life.
Huddle does her research and gives the reader more than enough other sources of information about each of these cases to keep people busy for a while. I don't read a lot of true crime but just got this on a whim...and though her snarkiness bothered me some times (I think the referrals to current cultural happenings will age the book badly)...it was a pretty good read.
Huddle does her research and gives the reader more than enough other sources of information about each of these cases to keep people busy for a while. I don't read a lot of true crime but just got this on a whim...and though her snarkiness bothered me some times (I think the referrals to current cultural happenings will age the book badly)...it was a pretty good read.
April 28, 2024
I absolutely love true crime and unsolved mysteries.
As I continued immersing myself in the detailed descriptions and insightful analysis provided in both the audio and ebook formats, I found a newfound appreciation for the intricacies of the case. The blend of auditory engagement and visual aids truly enhanced my understanding and allowed me to grasp the nuances of the narrative in a more holistic manner.
Exploring the various multimedia elements within the ebook, from captivating images to interactive websites, not only enriched my reading experience but also provided me with a deeper connection to the story being unraveled. It was a testament to the power of technology in bringing stories to life and engaging readers on multiple levels.
Denise's passionate narration added a layer of emotion and authenticity to the tale, making it all the more compelling and unforgettable. Her dedication to the craft shone through, making the listening experience not just informative but also a journey of discovery and intrigue.
Additionally, there were a few stories that were new to me, so it was enlightening to learn more about them!
As I continued immersing myself in the detailed descriptions and insightful analysis provided in both the audio and ebook formats, I found a newfound appreciation for the intricacies of the case. The blend of auditory engagement and visual aids truly enhanced my understanding and allowed me to grasp the nuances of the narrative in a more holistic manner.
Exploring the various multimedia elements within the ebook, from captivating images to interactive websites, not only enriched my reading experience but also provided me with a deeper connection to the story being unraveled. It was a testament to the power of technology in bringing stories to life and engaging readers on multiple levels.
Denise's passionate narration added a layer of emotion and authenticity to the tale, making it all the more compelling and unforgettable. Her dedication to the craft shone through, making the listening experience not just informative but also a journey of discovery and intrigue.
Additionally, there were a few stories that were new to me, so it was enlightening to learn more about them!
May 26, 2024
This book is a fascinating, in-depth review of true crimes that are familiar. I already knew something about each of the cases listed here, but Ms. Huddle's stunning research takes us so much deeper into the details of each one.
I remember learning about the Lindbergh kidnapping in high school. What I didn't know was that Charles Lindbergh was a class-A douche bulb in a few different ways. And I didn't know why that information might have bearing on what happened to his first-born child.
Ms. Huddle never draws conclusions about what really happened without laying out every bit of evidence for why she feels things might have gone down the way they did. She doesn't conclusively state, "It definitely must have happened this way," which I really appreciate. These cases remain unsolved for many reasons. But she makes strong cases for why things might have happened the way she surmises based on the evidence. You can then draw your own conclusions.
This book is a compelling read and invites you to read along, process the evidence, and form your own opinions. The depth of the research is truly impressive. If you're a fan of true crime, I highly recommend this book!
I remember learning about the Lindbergh kidnapping in high school. What I didn't know was that Charles Lindbergh was a class-A douche bulb in a few different ways. And I didn't know why that information might have bearing on what happened to his first-born child.
Ms. Huddle never draws conclusions about what really happened without laying out every bit of evidence for why she feels things might have gone down the way they did. She doesn't conclusively state, "It definitely must have happened this way," which I really appreciate. These cases remain unsolved for many reasons. But she makes strong cases for why things might have happened the way she surmises based on the evidence. You can then draw your own conclusions.
This book is a compelling read and invites you to read along, process the evidence, and form your own opinions. The depth of the research is truly impressive. If you're a fan of true crime, I highly recommend this book!
September 27, 2024
Allow at least three days for what is, quite frankly, exhausting reading that is not recommended as a soporific. Most of the cases have: What Happened? Background, Investigation, Suspects, Investigator's Comments, Tips, Quiz, and References.
Who Mailed The Anthrax Letters? This includes information from the UCLA Timeline of Events, FBI activities, Dr. Bruce Ivins, the link to a quiz on anthrax, and references.
Who Killed JonBenet Ramsey? This documents a failure of procedure and suspects, lists child protection tips, and has a concluding quiz.
Who Was D. B. Cooper? This has some Boeing background, links to supporting data, probable suspects, air safety tips, and a quiz.
Who Was the Zodiac Killer? This has a timeline, links, and a quiz but Zodiac most likely is no longer on the scene.
Who Killed the Black Dahlia? This has all the aspects including dating tips.
Who Really Kidnapped the Lindbergh Baby? This one ends in conjecture and links to tips for home safety.
Who Murdered Lizzy Borden's Parents? This also ends in conjecture with tips for home safety.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Who Mailed The Anthrax Letters? This includes information from the UCLA Timeline of Events, FBI activities, Dr. Bruce Ivins, the link to a quiz on anthrax, and references.
Who Killed JonBenet Ramsey? This documents a failure of procedure and suspects, lists child protection tips, and has a concluding quiz.
Who Was D. B. Cooper? This has some Boeing background, links to supporting data, probable suspects, air safety tips, and a quiz.
Who Was the Zodiac Killer? This has a timeline, links, and a quiz but Zodiac most likely is no longer on the scene.
Who Killed the Black Dahlia? This has all the aspects including dating tips.
Who Really Kidnapped the Lindbergh Baby? This one ends in conjecture and links to tips for home safety.
Who Murdered Lizzy Borden's Parents? This also ends in conjecture with tips for home safety.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 21, 2024
So I have this in both audiobooks and the book and I have to say. I really like this, I'm all about serial killer or unsolved mysteries. The way this book is done is great! The author have pictures of stuff from each case, the letters that were sent, and you can tell she did her research so much!
The audiobook is her with someone who i missed the name reading some of the letters/title for each section. It's actually really cool because she has her own opinions in there which kind of I agree with because some of them it's like logically it doesn't make sense but how did this person go free? So I like that because it's also all facts but then she also states her opinion on how you know this doesn't make sense like how is this even possible.
Honestly I loved it because I knew about some of these cases, but I didn't know in deep details about it and she makes sure that everything is there for you. Honestly if you like serial killers or unsolved mysteries give this book a read. Also too if you like to just listen to it her audiobook is actually really good!
The audiobook is her with someone who i missed the name reading some of the letters/title for each section. It's actually really cool because she has her own opinions in there which kind of I agree with because some of them it's like logically it doesn't make sense but how did this person go free? So I like that because it's also all facts but then she also states her opinion on how you know this doesn't make sense like how is this even possible.
Honestly I loved it because I knew about some of these cases, but I didn't know in deep details about it and she makes sure that everything is there for you. Honestly if you like serial killers or unsolved mysteries give this book a read. Also too if you like to just listen to it her audiobook is actually really good!
March 24, 2024
Anthrax to Zodiac by Denise Diana Huddle
Thanks to the author for a copy of her book!
This was a really cool and interesting read, condensed versions of disastrous and murderous events that have happened in the past. I've heard bits of these stories in the news but never really knew the whole stories.
Anthrax story was very interesting and how many hours and millions of dollars were spent trying to find the guilty person. I won't recap all stories, but 7 in total
Impressive the author can condense all the investigative information and present it for the reader and then add her own conclusions. It's also great all the additional references included should someone want to read up more on each case. The recommendations after each section about how to stay safe offers great advice! And I especially liked the Snarky Humor
I enjoyed this book as a different sort of read, it was educational and interesting to see how far things have come in being able to use DNA etc to convict criminals.
Thanks to the author for a copy of her book!
This was a really cool and interesting read, condensed versions of disastrous and murderous events that have happened in the past. I've heard bits of these stories in the news but never really knew the whole stories.
Anthrax story was very interesting and how many hours and millions of dollars were spent trying to find the guilty person. I won't recap all stories, but 7 in total
Impressive the author can condense all the investigative information and present it for the reader and then add her own conclusions. It's also great all the additional references included should someone want to read up more on each case. The recommendations after each section about how to stay safe offers great advice! And I especially liked the Snarky Humor
I enjoyed this book as a different sort of read, it was educational and interesting to see how far things have come in being able to use DNA etc to convict criminals.
April 17, 2024
Delving into the popular true crime genre, private investigator Denise Diana Huddle runs down seven of the most notorious unsolved crimes in US history. Her retelling of events is often riveting, yet sometimes feels like she's not contributing anything new that I couldn't have found through an Internet search. The Ramsey & Lindbergh murders stand out, while DB Cooper's tale is bogged down by three suspects who are seemingly ruled out by a piece of evidence she mentions later. Several times she says something along the lines of "I haven't read it, but..." In regards to a document; as a PI and author of this book, shouldn't the author have read it already? In the audiobook there are two passages (the 911 call of Patsy Ramsey and interrogation of Lizzie Borden) where the same narrator fills both parts of the dialogue. When making use of a co narrator, it would have worked better to alternate speaking parts!
April 25, 2024
A Spellbinding Review of Some of America's Famous Unsolved Mysteries!
This book captivated me initially and held me in suspense until the final page. Huddle masterfully investigates and reviews some of America's most famous unsolved mysteries. I was aware of all the cases yet mesmerized by the new details she revealed. In some circumstances, one was led to question if what we had been taught was the actual outcome. New investigative techniques, DNA, better deductive reasoning, etc., of today, rethink the investigative outcomes of yesteryears. She brings these stories to us with colorful writing that uses a splash of sarcastic symbology. Just the right touch! This true crime anthology was a most enjoyable read and was hard to put down until the end. Great job, Denise Diane Huddle!
I received this book as an ARC and voluntarily submitted this review.
This book captivated me initially and held me in suspense until the final page. Huddle masterfully investigates and reviews some of America's most famous unsolved mysteries. I was aware of all the cases yet mesmerized by the new details she revealed. In some circumstances, one was led to question if what we had been taught was the actual outcome. New investigative techniques, DNA, better deductive reasoning, etc., of today, rethink the investigative outcomes of yesteryears. She brings these stories to us with colorful writing that uses a splash of sarcastic symbology. Just the right touch! This true crime anthology was a most enjoyable read and was hard to put down until the end. Great job, Denise Diane Huddle!
I received this book as an ARC and voluntarily submitted this review.
July 29, 2024
This is a collection of unsolved True Crime cases. Huddle writes clearly and concisely, with a little bit of Snarcasm. Each case is presented in a logical manner, with evidence and careful analysis. Huddle explains each case, and then explains her view of the possible solutions. Occasionally, a little bit of snarcasm comes through, but it isn’t biased or rude. I enjoyed reading these summaries of the cases. There was not a lot of new information, but each case was explained in an easy to understand manner without condescension, and I felt like Huddle had a knack for cutting through the confusion to the heart of each story. The only thing I didn’t particularly care for was the Snarky Humor section after each case, as the memes and jokes weren’t relevant to the cases. But Huddle’s respectful presentation is both refreshing and entertaining.
November 10, 2024
Have you ever wondered who mailed the Anthrax letters in 2001? How about who DB Cooper really was? Even who truly murdered Lizzie Bordens parent. Dennise Huddle dives into these cases and more in this book.
It was well written and researched and also witty at times as she adds her own opinions on these cases. Each case is broken down in easy to read and follow sections with timelines of each case. This book is different than the “I know who killed them or who they actually were”. This book takes all the information available on these cases and frames the story, fills in details and provides information you may not have known about the cases in this book.
As a true crime lover myself I really enjoyed how she breaks each case down and doesn’t drag out the stories. It can definitely help bring out more discussions regarding these cold cases
It was well written and researched and also witty at times as she adds her own opinions on these cases. Each case is broken down in easy to read and follow sections with timelines of each case. This book is different than the “I know who killed them or who they actually were”. This book takes all the information available on these cases and frames the story, fills in details and provides information you may not have known about the cases in this book.
As a true crime lover myself I really enjoyed how she breaks each case down and doesn’t drag out the stories. It can definitely help bring out more discussions regarding these cold cases
March 14, 2024
When I first saw this book I knew I had to read it. I love watching, listening, and reading about serial killers and different cases. I had very minimal knowledge of these particular cases so I definitly learned quite a few things about them. It was very interesting learning about them through a different set of eyes, and I was hooked to this book from the start. I can't wait to tell my brother about it, and hopefully he will read it and we will have something to talk about. He is also into true crime. So to the author thank you so much. This was a gem of a book. I will definitly re-read this in the future, and probably see things for the second time that i didn't notice or appreciate the first time through.
I received a copy of this book for my voluntary and honest review.
I received a copy of this book for my voluntary and honest review.
April 1, 2024
Different crimes that were never solved or atheist completely 100% done for.
Most interesting for me were the zodiac and providing details with a timeline, which actually made it more understandable to me. The letters and decoders were a bonus. The anthrax story was also a very complicated crime I enjoyed reading the details of.
Overall, the writer made through investigations on the topics discussed and provided evidence present in the crime scenes. Providing an ascending timeline of how it went as well.
The anthrax story was a bit confusing because of a lot of names being involved. Thus, I only needed a more ascending time wise storyline instead of going back and forth sometimes.
Overall, I definitely recommend reading it.
Most interesting for me were the zodiac and providing details with a timeline, which actually made it more understandable to me. The letters and decoders were a bonus. The anthrax story was also a very complicated crime I enjoyed reading the details of.
Overall, the writer made through investigations on the topics discussed and provided evidence present in the crime scenes. Providing an ascending timeline of how it went as well.
The anthrax story was a bit confusing because of a lot of names being involved. Thus, I only needed a more ascending time wise storyline instead of going back and forth sometimes.
Overall, I definitely recommend reading it.
April 4, 2024
I absolutely love true crime and unsolved mysteries so I knew I wanted to check this book out as soon as I saw the author post about it.
I originally started with audio and then started following along with the ebook since I got both. Hearing another perspective on some of the better known cases is always interesting. In the ebook she provides pictures, websites, and more. So I definitely recommend it if you can do both.
The author’s commentary is great. Snarky just when needed. It’s the same way I felt the first time I heard some stories and how the ball was dropped and how some stuff just didn’t make sense. Also had a few stories I really didn’t know much about so it was nice to get info on those!
Loved this just like I love my morbid podcasts!
I originally started with audio and then started following along with the ebook since I got both. Hearing another perspective on some of the better known cases is always interesting. In the ebook she provides pictures, websites, and more. So I definitely recommend it if you can do both.
The author’s commentary is great. Snarky just when needed. It’s the same way I felt the first time I heard some stories and how the ball was dropped and how some stuff just didn’t make sense. Also had a few stories I really didn’t know much about so it was nice to get info on those!
Loved this just like I love my morbid podcasts!
May 14, 2024
This was a good nonfiction true crime read. Definitely for fans of true crime, who like unsolved mysteries, or at least there’s more to the story that meets the eye.
This book didn’t have a lot of “new information” in it. Mostly stuff you can find in other books or articles about the subjects, however I did enjoy the author’s explanations and her tips at the end of each section so you don’t end up like the victims.
Her snark added a touch of humor to really disturbing murders. JonBenet Ramsey is my Roman Empire. Lizzie Borden’s trail is intriguing because it feels like like the Victorian OJ Simpson trial (a comparison the author mentions) and it was interesting to read about the Zodiac Killer case.
Overall this was a good book just don’t think you’re getting new scoops or anything.
This book didn’t have a lot of “new information” in it. Mostly stuff you can find in other books or articles about the subjects, however I did enjoy the author’s explanations and her tips at the end of each section so you don’t end up like the victims.
Her snark added a touch of humor to really disturbing murders. JonBenet Ramsey is my Roman Empire. Lizzie Borden’s trail is intriguing because it feels like like the Victorian OJ Simpson trial (a comparison the author mentions) and it was interesting to read about the Zodiac Killer case.
Overall this was a good book just don’t think you’re getting new scoops or anything.
July 8, 2024
A really interesting audiobook. I got totally absorbed in how Denise Diana Huddle goes through each unsolved case. While I've heard of most of the cases she discusses, I really enjoyed the way she walks you through the facts and where each case hit a dead end. I particularly enjoyed her snarky comments and her take on the mystery. The level of detail she uses is just the right balance to keep you engaged and interested. I definitely don't think I could have done an entire audiobook on each one, so it was the perfect way to delve into the cases and keep me interested. Also, I have a lot of respect for the level of detail required to investigate these types of crimes. The investigation into the wood in the Lindbergh kidnapping is literally mind-boggling.
August 16, 2024
A great in depth look of some of the USA most famous cases. This book is very detail oriented and each case follows preset sections. These sections include the who, what, and end with investigator’s notes. While I knew many of the case details, this book goes more into the unsolved cases and gives ideas of who might have been involved and the reasoning behind why they make good suspects.
Ms. Huddle also includes her snarky mannerisms to the book giving the reader/listener a bit of a giggle at times.
I listened to the audiobook which is narrated by the author herself. I love when author’s do this as they have more love for the book than a normal narrator. The only problem I found was the pronunciation of Towson.
Ms. Huddle also includes her snarky mannerisms to the book giving the reader/listener a bit of a giggle at times.
I listened to the audiobook which is narrated by the author herself. I love when author’s do this as they have more love for the book than a normal narrator. The only problem I found was the pronunciation of Towson.
April 15, 2024
This book was interesting. Several of these mysterious crimes I had heard about and some I was new to. This book led me down some serious rabbit holes which I found entertaining as I love learning more about things like this. The author's personality came through with several remarks which brought some joy and humor to the situations. I could tell she really did her research into these crimes and that she enjoyed doing so. I was appreciative of all the resources that were included and the fun links to sites and quizzes to learn more about the crimes. From someone who does not typically read true crime, this was a great read!
April 22, 2024
"Anthrax to Zodiac" takes you on a rollercoaster ride through some of history's most perplexing mysteries, guided by the witty and sharp-tongued PI at its helm. With a blend of humor and insightful investigation, this book delves into the shadows of the past 150 years, from the chilling case of Anthrax to the enigmatic Zodiac killer. Each chapter offers a fresh perspective, challenging conventional wisdom and leaving no stone unturned. While the mysteries themselves may remain unsolved, the journey through them is thoroughly entertaining and thought-provoking. Whether you're a true crime aficionado or simply enjoy a good whodunit, "Anthrax to Zodiac" is sure to captivate and intrigue.
May 8, 2024
Read if you're in the mood for something: informative, mysterious, reflective
Pacing? medium-paced
Book Rating: 1.25 stars
If you want a repeat of what you probably already know about these cases, as it's widely known, then this is the book for you! You might enjoy this book If you don't know a lot about popular true crime cases.
Narrator Rating: 0.75 stars
Honestly, she was terrible! Her voice was grating, and it was poorly edited. Also, the voice that did the chapter openings sounded computer-generated.
Content Warnings
Pacing? medium-paced
Book Rating: 1.25 stars
If you want a repeat of what you probably already know about these cases, as it's widely known, then this is the book for you! You might enjoy this book If you don't know a lot about popular true crime cases.
Narrator Rating: 0.75 stars
Honestly, she was terrible! Her voice was grating, and it was poorly edited. Also, the voice that did the chapter openings sounded computer-generated.
Content Warnings
May 14, 2024
I like true crime. Possibly in an unhealthy way. I like to read about serial killers, cults, mass murders...it’s dark, but there’s so much psychology in it that I can’t resist. When this audiobook came up for me, I wanted it without hesitation. It is SO WELL DONE. The author goes into the history of the time, paints a full picture of all the people involved (including their future history past the crimes) and covers the facts in great detail. She also posits what she thinks may have happened and why, as well as gives you tips to avoid a similar grim fate as the people in the unsolved crimes. This is a definite read/listen for any true crime fan!
May 23, 2024
This former investigator turned author has written a book on her in depth examinations of several high profile true crime cases. It is both compelling and fascinating. A page turner.
Thorough research coupled with headline gripping news stories from the past several decades makes for an interesting read. Although heavy topics, it is written in a digestible manner. It provided puzzle pieces to these unsolved mysteries that I had forgotten were missing in my brain. The book gives the latest up to date information on the cases and helps to answer the questions that remain about who the real perpetrators were.
It was an enjoyable read and I hope to read more from this author.
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