That Dark Spring: A True Story of Death and Desire in 1920s Provence

by Susannah Stapleton, Nathalie Buscombe (Narrator)

'I couldn't stop reading it. Susannah Stapleton writes with beautiful clarity and has produced a classic of true crime' - Lissa Evans, author of Small Bomb at Dimperley

A gripping, explosive murder mystery by acclaimed true crime writer Susannah Stapleton.

In April 1929, the body of British artist Olive Branson was found submerged in a water tank outside her farmhouse in a picturesque Provence village. Dressed only in a pink shirt and stockings, she had a bullet hole between her eyes and a revolver by her side.

Was it suicide – or murder?

The initial investigation concluded suicide, but under pressure from Olive’s family to conduct a murder enquiry, city detective Alexandre Guibbal was brought in to reopen the case.

Examining never-before-seen evidence, acclaimed true crime writer Susannah Stapleton builds a vivid and absorbing picture of an unconventional life and a violent death, and an investigation that shines a bright light on a village simmering with resentments and dangerous rivalries . . .

Audible Audio

Published July 29, 2025

About the author

Susannah Stapleton was born in Kent in 1973. As a freelance historical researcher and writer with over twenty years’ experience, she has worked for museums and galleries, community groups, politicians and private individuals. She currently works as a bookseller at an award-winning independent bookshop in Shropshire whilst pursuing her own passion for twentieth century women’s history.

Reviews

[Tundra · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found this audiobook fascinating. The writing style is somehow comprehensive but does not feel burdened by details. It is evident there was a lot of research taken to compile this book. However, the linear timeline and segues into the lives of various suspects, prosecutors, defenders and the inhabitants of this provincial region of France is smooth and seamlessly executed. This is not a dry factual account of a murder investigation it is a snapshot of rural village life in France during the early 20th century.