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The Killing Season
For fans of “True Detective” and Making A Murderer, THE KILLING SEASON is a page-turning true crime saga, the story of a double murder that went unsolved for more than 35 years, and a chilling portrait of a small town upended by unimaginable violence.In the summer of 1975, the sprawling, valley town of Grand Junction, Colorado, is stunned by the grisly double murders of 24-year-old Linda Benson and her baby daughter Kelley. For Jim Fromm and Doug Rushing, the two young detectives assigned to the case, the investigation is a chance to earn their stripes and prove their mettle. At first, Fromm and Rushing peg the woman’s mercurial husband, a pipe-fitter who works outside of town, as the primary suspect. But as their case against Steve Benson unravels, the detectives find themselves short on leads—and running out of time. With the city on edge and anxious for answers, a notorious serial killer goes on the lam, and yet another young woman and her children turn up dead.In The Killing Season, acclaimed journalist Alex French traces the story of the Benson murders from the night Linda and Kelley’s bodies are found strewn across their second floor apartment, to an improbable discovery, made more than 30 years later, that enabled a new breed of detectives to crack the case and bring closure to those who'd watched justice slip away. Writing in taut, atmospheric prose, French has crafted a heart-pounding tale of tragedy, resilience, and redemption—set against the burning-red vistas of the American Southwest.Alex French is a freelance journalist. His reportage and oral histories have appeared in the New York Times Magazine, BuzzReads, GQ, New York Magazine, Grantland, This American Life and a variety of other venues. He lives in Monmouth County, New Jersey, with his wife and two children.Cover design by Adil Dara.
111 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 18, 2016
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
April 3, 2017
Without ruining the ending, I felt this story went so many ways it became very, very confusing. I listened on Audible (it was $2!) and maybe this is why I lost track of all of the players? In any case, this was True Crime, factual, and, although perplexing, this story happened this way for this family for decades. Interesting overall..and Ted Bundy makes a cameo just to add to the suspense! I tend to listen to audible while traveling, and this made it an interesting drive.
November 15, 2016
My problem with this book is that was clearly written by someone very familiar with all those involved (not personally but through research/reporting I assume) and didn't hesitate to refer to many many many different people all at once. I imagine if I had read this in one sitting I may have enjoyed it more simply from being able to follow it better. But because of the style it took me a week to read this kindle single and really (even for the dark subject matter) was not a fun experience. There are much better true crime books out there, this one simply didn't work as it was written. I kept thinking that I should just quit reading it and read the Wikipedia article instead but I persevered. Now I wish I hadn't.
But hey it was free through Amazon Prime Reading so I guess the only I lost was my time.
But hey it was free through Amazon Prime Reading so I guess the only I lost was my time.
February 8, 2016
If you like Ann Rule, you will like this. It is like her writing, only less flowery. It is about a crime that took place in 1975 in Grand Junction, Colorado. Actually, there was a string of murders there of young women during about a year's time, which is why it was dubbed the "Killing Season". At least one of the murders was confessed to by Ted Bundy, but this is about a double murder of a woman and her three year old daughter. It took thirty-odd years for DNA testing to be used and the murderer found. The story flows along really smoothly and it stayed interesting throughout the whole book, which isn't very long. And it manages to keep us guessing if they had the right man. This book is for people who like to read about true crime.
September 27, 2018
Finally! By that I mean this book took me the longest to read than any "True Crime" story I've read. I would say it was boring but that's not quite the word I need to describe it. Maybe "clinical" is better or matter -of -fact is a better term anyway I was interested in this book because it took 33 years to solve this crime. This book was rather dry, I couldn't connect with any of the characters, may they be police, victims families or suspects. All the characters just melted into one another and I couldn't tell one cop/investigator from another. The story moved very slowly with almost no action until the end when they actually had a suspect to focus on. The only character I could keep straight was the mother of the first victims (mother & daughter). Then there were the other two people who were murdered (about the same time) but the author didn't follow-up with those cases after focusing a lot of research into them. It left an incomplete story and ending wasn't very satisfying even though "Justice" was finally served.
November 13, 2021
This is a relatively short book that's great on audio.
It focuses on the investigation of the murder of a mother and child in 1975, that took over 30 years to complete.
In that time, the original investigating officers left the force and the files ended up in storage.
The murder of Linda Benson and her young daughter Kelly had a lot of suspects including her husband but there was no definite conclusion.
This was the time when Ted Bundy, the smiling innocuous looking serial killer was at large so he was suspected of being responsible too and the narrative details some of the evidence that seemed to indicate this.
As the book traces the police work over the decades between the 70s and 2009 when it was solved, the advances in technology, forensics and other developments and how they enabled better detective work is clear.
It focuses on the investigation of the murder of a mother and child in 1975, that took over 30 years to complete.
In that time, the original investigating officers left the force and the files ended up in storage.
The murder of Linda Benson and her young daughter Kelly had a lot of suspects including her husband but there was no definite conclusion.
This was the time when Ted Bundy, the smiling innocuous looking serial killer was at large so he was suspected of being responsible too and the narrative details some of the evidence that seemed to indicate this.
As the book traces the police work over the decades between the 70s and 2009 when it was solved, the advances in technology, forensics and other developments and how they enabled better detective work is clear.
January 15, 2022
Quick read, not a drop the mic ending but still a quick one day read.
January 1, 2024
I read one review that claimed this read like an Ann Rule book, only less flowery, but the only similarity I could detect was the mention of Ted Bundy. Overall, it felt like the author was just trying to quickly summarize the case- it’s a succinct recap, but nothing stands out to me.
July 5, 2017
This book/single was a very interesting, satisfying quick read.
The story follows the a 30+ year investigation into the horrific murder of a young woman and her child--from the day of the crime to the conclusion of the investigation (don't want to spoil the ending!). The amount of detail is impressive and I believe the author is very comfortable in his grasp of the case. I really enjoyed the read!
That said, as other reviewers mentioned, it does get confusing at times trying to keep all of the characters separate as you read. There is not much consistency in how the characters are named, as sometimes they'll be referred to with a whole name, sometimes first name only and other times last name only. It also felt like the topic shifted sporadically, but I suspect some of that is the Kindle edition formatting.
Worth a read, particularly if you're fascinated by serial killers!
The story follows the a 30+ year investigation into the horrific murder of a young woman and her child--from the day of the crime to the conclusion of the investigation (don't want to spoil the ending!). The amount of detail is impressive and I believe the author is very comfortable in his grasp of the case. I really enjoyed the read!
That said, as other reviewers mentioned, it does get confusing at times trying to keep all of the characters separate as you read. There is not much consistency in how the characters are named, as sometimes they'll be referred to with a whole name, sometimes first name only and other times last name only. It also felt like the topic shifted sporadically, but I suspect some of that is the Kindle edition formatting.
Worth a read, particularly if you're fascinated by serial killers!
January 27, 2023
Thought it was just me but the writing is disjointed, mixed styles and jumps about with uneccssary detail and then misses necessary detail. On top the narrator reads everything as though it's shocking even when it's mundane, with no light and shade and little variation in character voices.
I kept thinking I'd missed huge chunks. Turns out I'd missed seconds in which the detail was suggested but not stated.
For instance at one crucial point in the timeline there's a sentence about cops have all they need to make an arrest, next sentence cuts to suspect in his car living his life, next sentence something about him being in prison. It's never stated that he is arrested. Then it will jump to Ted Bundy and then back to a cop. There's prose of full lyrical sentences and then chunks of staccato minimal sentences. It's really badly written. And narrated.
Probably the worst true crime I've ever read.
I kept thinking I'd missed huge chunks. Turns out I'd missed seconds in which the detail was suggested but not stated.
For instance at one crucial point in the timeline there's a sentence about cops have all they need to make an arrest, next sentence cuts to suspect in his car living his life, next sentence something about him being in prison. It's never stated that he is arrested. Then it will jump to Ted Bundy and then back to a cop. There's prose of full lyrical sentences and then chunks of staccato minimal sentences. It's really badly written. And narrated.
Probably the worst true crime I've ever read.
November 19, 2020
The Dogged Pursuit of Justice
An all-too-familiar story told in an unusual style.
Against the dramatic Rocky Mountain backdrop in Grand Junction, Colorado during the summer of 1975 a real life tragedy of double homicide was unfolding. A young mother and 5-year old daughter were discovered brutally murdered in the Château Apartments complex by two young police detectives.
Alex French’s 2016 non-fictional account, “The Killing Season”, follows the efforts to solve these and other similar murders in a fascinating journalistic style, both chronicling and condensing the pursuit in a minimalist style. These events also overlapped with the sensational concurrent capture of Ted Bundy, who had at one time been nearby.
While rich in detail, French has a smooth, colloquial, well-paced style using little dialogue to cover the persistent pursuit and resolution over thirty-five years. The narrative captures the mistakes, unfounded suspicions, rumors, disappointments and occasional luck of police work. The dispassionate approach elevates the frustration discouragement and loss, not easily mollified by “ but life goes on”.
Unmarried, Steve and Linda Benson with their daughter, Kelley, were living in the picturesque Colorado tourist destination and friendly with several neighbors in the apartment complex. One evening, Steve returned from working at a distant location to find the door open to a vicious murder scene and beginning of a twisted tale.
At first the case seems almost to be resolved but alibis hold up, forensics provides no “smoking gun” and speculation abounds. Then, the case begins to drift. People move on as new people touch upon the scene but French preserves a sense of continuity by tracking the lives of those originally involved, their changes in hopes and resignations. It is abundantly clear these are not glamorized lives, just plain folks outside the bounds of travel posters.
In an understated but meaningful touch the author describes how the boxed evidence from the murder scene moves from storage to storage location over the years until its relevance resurfaces. Will the dated findings still be acceptable?
There is resolution though answers seem to remain incomplete.
My only regret is I did not read the story earlier.
An all-too-familiar story told in an unusual style.
Against the dramatic Rocky Mountain backdrop in Grand Junction, Colorado during the summer of 1975 a real life tragedy of double homicide was unfolding. A young mother and 5-year old daughter were discovered brutally murdered in the Château Apartments complex by two young police detectives.
Alex French’s 2016 non-fictional account, “The Killing Season”, follows the efforts to solve these and other similar murders in a fascinating journalistic style, both chronicling and condensing the pursuit in a minimalist style. These events also overlapped with the sensational concurrent capture of Ted Bundy, who had at one time been nearby.
While rich in detail, French has a smooth, colloquial, well-paced style using little dialogue to cover the persistent pursuit and resolution over thirty-five years. The narrative captures the mistakes, unfounded suspicions, rumors, disappointments and occasional luck of police work. The dispassionate approach elevates the frustration discouragement and loss, not easily mollified by “ but life goes on”.
Unmarried, Steve and Linda Benson with their daughter, Kelley, were living in the picturesque Colorado tourist destination and friendly with several neighbors in the apartment complex. One evening, Steve returned from working at a distant location to find the door open to a vicious murder scene and beginning of a twisted tale.
At first the case seems almost to be resolved but alibis hold up, forensics provides no “smoking gun” and speculation abounds. Then, the case begins to drift. People move on as new people touch upon the scene but French preserves a sense of continuity by tracking the lives of those originally involved, their changes in hopes and resignations. It is abundantly clear these are not glamorized lives, just plain folks outside the bounds of travel posters.
In an understated but meaningful touch the author describes how the boxed evidence from the murder scene moves from storage to storage location over the years until its relevance resurfaces. Will the dated findings still be acceptable?
There is resolution though answers seem to remain incomplete.
My only regret is I did not read the story earlier.
April 23, 2025
I normally enjoy true crime, even though the writing is generally slightly less polished than other genres. I particularly enjoy the analysis of what motivates people to commit crimes and, more so, how such criminals are apprehended. Cold case, true crime stories are my favorite because it is fascinating to see the technological developments utilized and applied to solve cases long perceived as dead.
This book should have been easy and enjoyable, since it appeared to check all those boxes. Unfortunately, the author jumped all over the place, seemingly lacking content or clear direction. Pages were filled with other current events and bounced from various characters, whether to bulk up the narrative or provide context was unclear. The text appears disorganized and confusing. I would have found the same information on Wikipedia and found the reading experience more enjoyable.
This book should have been easy and enjoyable, since it appeared to check all those boxes. Unfortunately, the author jumped all over the place, seemingly lacking content or clear direction. Pages were filled with other current events and bounced from various characters, whether to bulk up the narrative or provide context was unclear. The text appears disorganized and confusing. I would have found the same information on Wikipedia and found the reading experience more enjoyable.
October 25, 2024
The Killing Season was a compelling true crime account of unsolved murders in 1970s. French’s meticulous research shined through as he delved into police reports, court documents, and interviews with those affected. He humanized the victims and their families, making their stories deeply impactful. While the detail sometimes overwhelmed the narrative, slowing the pacing, it demonstrated French’s commitment to accuracy and respect for the victims. A well-researched and haunting read, this book is a must for true crime enthusiasts.
Read more here: https://annietheinkdrinker.wordpress....
Read more here: https://annietheinkdrinker.wordpress....
March 13, 2018
Nothing particularly new here.
Have you ever heard of a cold case being solved later with DNA testing? You're in luck. That happens here. Worse, there's never an explanation of motive for the actual killer. In short, it's a very well told story of a brutal crime and eventual capture of the killer. But there's nothing new here. I paid $0 from Kindle unlimited so it's worth the price. I was mildly entertained, thus I'll give it a positive rating. Just don't expect anything too exciting.
Have you ever heard of a cold case being solved later with DNA testing? You're in luck. That happens here. Worse, there's never an explanation of motive for the actual killer. In short, it's a very well told story of a brutal crime and eventual capture of the killer. But there's nothing new here. I paid $0 from Kindle unlimited so it's worth the price. I was mildly entertained, thus I'll give it a positive rating. Just don't expect anything too exciting.
March 4, 2022
I finished listening to the Audiobook The Killing Season and I rate it 3 stars 🌟
This started off quite good and i was enjoying listening to the story but then it went off in all different directions was wondering if it was still the same case they was talking about, it was interesting very in-depth and fully researched.
It's ab unpleasant and unsettling story it is a killer I've never heard of before, if your a true-crime fan then I think you will enjoy this there's lots of information Ted Bundy is mentioned it's not bad..
This started off quite good and i was enjoying listening to the story but then it went off in all different directions was wondering if it was still the same case they was talking about, it was interesting very in-depth and fully researched.
It's ab unpleasant and unsettling story it is a killer I've never heard of before, if your a true-crime fan then I think you will enjoy this there's lots of information Ted Bundy is mentioned it's not bad..
July 4, 2017
If you like true crime, then you'll likely enjoy this book. It's short and easy to read. It's not the post compelling book but the case itself is fairly interesting. It can be confusing to follow because there's a large amount of people that play a part in the case.
One thing that confused me was that I felt like the author was trying to suggest Ted Buddy did the murder, otherwise I don't know why he was constantly brought up.
One thing that confused me was that I felt like the author was trying to suggest Ted Buddy did the murder, otherwise I don't know why he was constantly brought up.
August 17, 2017
This was ok. I will return and do a full review but at present I need to go back and check about the guy who called (came to visit at the outer door) at the apartment complex the evening she and her daughter was killed. It seems that this item (who he actually was, why she was so nervous about him, etc.. ) was never followed up upon in the book from my recollection. Big red flag. I could be wrong, maybe I missed that detail.
May 13, 2023
This is a Kindle single so it is a shorter book. Approximately 5 hours long.
I found the story good. A bit confusing at times, because it skipped around just a bit. These were some gruesome murders. I feel that they were overlooked or got lost because Ted Bundy was also active during this time frame. Plus I agree with other reviewers that there could have been some more details. Overall, a good story.
I found the story good. A bit confusing at times, because it skipped around just a bit. These were some gruesome murders. I feel that they were overlooked or got lost because Ted Bundy was also active during this time frame. Plus I agree with other reviewers that there could have been some more details. Overall, a good story.
January 1, 2019
2.5 stars really. A good quick rundown of the random murder of a mother and daughter in 1975. Reads like a police report with sprinklings of literary prose. References to Ted Bundy are Red Herrings. Unrelated mentions of an apocalyptic Cult appear in narrative without any reason.
Still, glad I read
Still, glad I read
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 8, 2023
It was an interesting story, about a true Crime, which occurred around the same time as Ted Bundy was at large which gave a good anchor to the time period and there was the niggle of "Was it Bundy or someone else?" at play. My one gripe was the narrator, a mid-western monotonous drone which made it difficult to concentrate on for any length of time.
January 12, 2026
THIS REVIEW IS FOR THE AUDIOBOOK. The narration on this book is HORRIBLE. I thought this is how an AI narrator would sound, but sadly, it isn’t. I will be trying the ebook which is free on KU as the story did seem as it had potential. I just kept getting turned off by the narration. This book is a 4 hour listen. I should have finished it in one day. Instead it took 5.
May 16, 2017
Great read. Super interesting story, told well
Great story with several twists. I read it in two days, hard to put down. If you are interested in immersing yourself in a good story that happens to be true, this should do the trick.
Great story with several twists. I read it in two days, hard to put down. If you are interested in immersing yourself in a good story that happens to be true, this should do the trick.
May 23, 2017
Interesting but buried in the weeds
Interesting premise and evocative description. There was too much background information on minor characters that made it feel like the author wanted to flesh out a short story.
Interesting premise and evocative description. There was too much background information on minor characters that made it feel like the author wanted to flesh out a short story.
August 16, 2017
Rambling
Took great lengths to give unnecessary details. The flow was awkward and tangential. A lot taken from history of Bundy's killings and it had virtually nothing to do with this story.
Took great lengths to give unnecessary details. The flow was awkward and tangential. A lot taken from history of Bundy's killings and it had virtually nothing to do with this story.
July 8, 2017
A quick read with lots of details and insight into the impact the murders had on the family and the community. Would have loved more on the psychology end of the crime but this struck me as straightforward journalism. Not bad.
November 23, 2017
Not bad.
Seems pretty accurate to actual investigations. I think if the author would have constructed the story to reflect the actual killers struggle with hiding and his thought pattern, it would have been more interesting.
Seems pretty accurate to actual investigations. I think if the author would have constructed the story to reflect the actual killers struggle with hiding and his thought pattern, it would have been more interesting.
December 1, 2021
Confusing listen, because the unrelated Ted Bundy kept getting interjected into the mix. The true crime story was about the murder of a mother and daughter, but the author kept pointing out what was going on with the Ted Bundy case at this time or that time during the investigation.
December 4, 2022
The writing was quite disjointed. Seemed to bounce back and forth between different things. Kept focusing on Ted Bundy (as there were fears these were some of his victims) which actually confused things. Started discussing another murder of 4 people… just unnecessary.
December 19, 2016
Just ok
Liked the story but not developed enough. It was like the difference between watching a award winning movie and a documentary.
Liked the story but not developed enough. It was like the difference between watching a award winning movie and a documentary.
May 4, 2017
This was an easy read, I was able to finish it in about a day. Pretty dry read - reads more like a news article than a book. Good if you like procedural stuff!
June 22, 2017
Awesome
If you are a true crime junkie like myself this book is a fast and enthralling read. Buckle up and enjoy the frustrating and thrilling ride.
If you are a true crime junkie like myself this book is a fast and enthralling read. Buckle up and enjoy the frustrating and thrilling ride.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews