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The Murder of Allison Baden-Clay
How did a father with no criminal history come to be on trial for the brutal murder of his wife? It began with a phone call to Brisbane police on April 20, 2012. Allison, wife of real-estate agent Gerard Baden-Clay, was missing. When investigating officers arrived at the family home, in one of the city’s wealthiest suburbs, a neatly dressed Gerard had been getting the couple’s three daughters ready for school. Scratches on his face were shaving cuts, he told them. Police weren’t so sure and opened one of Australia’s biggest ever missing persons investigations. Ten days after Gerard reported Allison’s disappearance, the body of the former beauty queen was discovered on a creek bank 14 kilometers from home. The Killing of Allison Baden-Clay is written by the investigative journalist who covered the case from the start. It weaves together exclusive interviews and police and court records to explain how a father with no criminal history came to be on trial for a brutal murder. It’s also a story about everyday choices and their consequences.
464 pages, Paperback
First published December 1, 2014
39 people are currently reading
654 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
May 30, 2016
All marriages have their secrets … so the cover said.
Fortunately, not all marriages feature a narcissistic husband.
I had not read a true crime book for a long time. I couldn’t put this down and read it in 24 hours. I thought the author told the story very well. I never followed the case of Allison Baden-Clay, but couldn’t help but notice in the media coverage at the time, her beautiful smiling face everywhere. At the time I kept thinking of the Scott Peterson case, or more so the murder of Laci Peterson in the US many years ago although in that case Laci was pregnant.
http://www.findlaci2003.us/
I followed Laci’s story very closely, and the murder of Allison has many similarities. Husband goes to bed, wakes up the next morning, and claims his wife has gone missing and probably took a walk — but none more striking than the similarities of their husbands. Both arrogant, selfish, deceptive, compulsive liers who don’t have an announce of empathy in them.
Some of the entries Allison made in her diary over the years are heart breaking - one when working through an exercise TV psychologist Dr Phil suggested to help save relationships she was working her way through a list of half started sentences and had to finish them.
I would give anything if my partner would … “make love to me.”
Then they seem to sort it out but ...
Then well!
“Afterwards, why so mean? Laughed at undies. Told me I smelled.”
Then only a few days before she was murdered a marriage councillor had suggested she write down questions to ask her husband about an affair she had discovered about seven months earlier.
“Movies/drive together - how many times; what see; dinner; scared of being seen; kiss/hug? Snowy - drive together; seats down; lie there afterwards; how many times; do afterwards; drive home?”
Thankfully, Allison had her revenge … a razor can’t mimic nails racked down one’s husband face.
Fortunately, not all marriages feature a narcissistic husband.
I had not read a true crime book for a long time. I couldn’t put this down and read it in 24 hours. I thought the author told the story very well. I never followed the case of Allison Baden-Clay, but couldn’t help but notice in the media coverage at the time, her beautiful smiling face everywhere. At the time I kept thinking of the Scott Peterson case, or more so the murder of Laci Peterson in the US many years ago although in that case Laci was pregnant.
http://www.findlaci2003.us/
I followed Laci’s story very closely, and the murder of Allison has many similarities. Husband goes to bed, wakes up the next morning, and claims his wife has gone missing and probably took a walk — but none more striking than the similarities of their husbands. Both arrogant, selfish, deceptive, compulsive liers who don’t have an announce of empathy in them.
Some of the entries Allison made in her diary over the years are heart breaking - one when working through an exercise TV psychologist Dr Phil suggested to help save relationships she was working her way through a list of half started sentences and had to finish them.
I would give anything if my partner would … “make love to me.”
Then they seem to sort it out but ...
Then well!
“Afterwards, why so mean? Laughed at undies. Told me I smelled.”
Then only a few days before she was murdered a marriage councillor had suggested she write down questions to ask her husband about an affair she had discovered about seven months earlier.
“Movies/drive together - how many times; what see; dinner; scared of being seen; kiss/hug? Snowy - drive together; seats down; lie there afterwards; how many times; do afterwards; drive home?”
Thankfully, Allison had her revenge … a razor can’t mimic nails racked down one’s husband face.
August 22, 2016
This book was very well researched, which is what you would expect from a journalist. The insights into the Baden-Clay clan, their links to Scouting history, and the marriage and it's nuances were very thoroughly explained and discussed in the book.
There's certainly a little bias in the retelling of the investigation - however it appears that one can't blame David for pegging Gerard as the villain, he certainly plays the part well.
There's not as much legalese in this book compared to what you might find in other true crime books, and the emphasis on the lead up to the murder is appropriate.
A very well written book that is easy to read and sensitive to the topic.
There's certainly a little bias in the retelling of the investigation - however it appears that one can't blame David for pegging Gerard as the villain, he certainly plays the part well.
There's not as much legalese in this book compared to what you might find in other true crime books, and the emphasis on the lead up to the murder is appropriate.
A very well written book that is easy to read and sensitive to the topic.
July 14, 2020
A well-researched and easy to read book. I couldn’t put it down and wanted to know what happened next even though I knew the tragic ending before I started.
It was an interesting insight into the traits of a narcissistic person. The best true crime novel I have read in a long time.
It was an interesting insight into the traits of a narcissistic person. The best true crime novel I have read in a long time.
February 7, 2016
All I can say is he got what he deserved, such arrogance and a narcissistic personality, it was never going to end well. Poor Alison, what she must have endured and then her family left behind who are now trying to come to terms with her death. How do three young girls ever deal with their father murdering their mother, who loved her girls so much.
January 9, 2019
2.5. This case and trial were really interesting to read about in depth, but the delivery was quite poor; often sensationalist, overtly biased, and in some earlier parts of the book, wayyyyy too detailed than was necessary or desired.
December 29, 2014
I don’t normally read true crime novels – truth be told, I don’t read much non-fiction in general but true crime is a particular genre I avoid. This is odd, I’ll admit, since I am an avid-newsreader and will often get sucked into particular current events, often harrowing, and wonder about them for days on end. But true crime books just don’t appeal … until I got sucked into Serial Podcast, that ode to investigative journalism hosted by Sarah Koenig and spin-off of This American Life. The first season delves into the 1999 murder of 18-year-old Hae Min Lee, and her ex-boyfriend Adnan Masud Syed life-sentence conviction for her murder.
It was the end (and my enjoyment) of the 12-episode season one of Serial podcast that prompted me to read outside my normal comfort zone … and I picked up David Murray’s true crime novel about the 2012 disappearance and subsequent murder trial of Allison Baden-Clay because another pop-culture phenomenon got me thinking back on the case. I saw ‘Gone Girl’ – the adaptation of Gillian Flynn’s bestseller – this year, and the story of a wife-gone-missing and her husband faltering in the glare of the media spotlight had me drawing some serious parallels to the Baden-Clay case (as was Flynn’s intention – having researched many past famous cases of uxoricide for her book).
So I delved into David Murray’s true crime book – the case still so fresh, as the guilty verdict (and sentence of life imprisonment) of Allison’s husband Gerard Baden-Clay was handed down in July this year. David Murray – a journalist for The Courier-Mail and Sunday Mail – was on the case from the first hints of a drama unfolding back in April 2012, when Gerard Baden-Clay phoned police to report his wife missing.
The book opens on April 20, 2012 with Gerard making a phone-call to police to say he woke up to find his wife gone, unreturned from her usual morning walk and himself starting to worry because she had a conference to attend. When the first two officers on the scene see Gerard Baden-Clay they are struck by a weeping wound on his cheek, what looks to be scratch marks, but he claims are cuts from shaving. It is these startling wounds that immediately kick investigations into high-gear, and ultimately lead police to Gerard Baden-Clay as their prime suspect in the murder of his wife, once her body is found days later, unceremoniously dumped down a creek embankment.
David Murray then draws back from the case to take a broader look at the lives of Allison Dickie, and her future husband Gerard Clay (name changed to ‘Baden’-Clay to reflect his family’s affiliation to Robert Baden-Powell, the founder of the Scout Movement).
At times David Murray’s investigations into the parents, grandparents and great-grandparents of Allison and Gerard bored me … but the somewhat excessive information becomes crucial later on, as Murray rather masterfully builds a character depiction of Allison, but especially her elusive husband.
Journalist David Murray having contacts in the wealthy Brookfield area where the Baden-Clays lived started calling around town almost immediately to get an idea of this family in the wake of their tragedy. He was told glowing stories of Allison’s kindness and hard work, her self-sacrifice and love for her three young daughters. What he found about Gerard was trickier – sometimes hearing scathing character assessments from disgruntled former colleagues, locals who found Gerard’s entire family odd and self-important, and Murray was told the worst-kept secret in town was Gerard’s numerous affairs buried behind his family-man persona.
Living in Melbourne when this case was unfolding in Queensland, I quickly realised that I only knew the bare bones of this case which was dominating headlines around Australia, but especially in Queensland. I didn’t realise that there was such gossip and many armchair-detectives speculating almost immediately that “the husband did it”, or the numerous compelling pieces of evidence that left little doubt in people’s minds. In one particularly fascinating chapter, Murray comments on the new-age of reporting that was born out of this case that saw reporters ‘live-tweeting’ from inside the courtroom, and saw the case discussed (much like Serial podcast was) by internet-sleuths:
The amateur sleuth has long been a staple in crime fiction. The idea that average Joes and Josephines can crack cases that have stumped the professionals appeals to armchair detectives the world over.
Because I was so unfamiliar with all but the bare facts of the case, I found details into the Queensland police force’s amazingly detailed and steadfast case really fascinating. But I understand there’s probably not a lot here that Queenslanders who were glued to their TV screens didn’t already know – no thanks again to the Internet buzz the case created.
Almost 1500 lines of inquiry were run out during Operation Kilo Intrigue, three times as many as the average murder investigation.
But on the flipside of no really new or startling information, I found that David Murray’s true investigative strength lay in deciphering the ‘character’ of Gerard Baden-Clay. I think this case especially resonated because fairly soon the public realised that, behind the smiling photos and public appearances, the Baden-Clay’s lives and marriage were in tatters. Financial crisis and extramarital affairs were plaguing them; yet family, friends and the wider community thought them to be a tight-knit, happy family. There’s always going to be intriguing in ripping away a seemingly perfect veneer to show a darker underbelly – it’s the human condition to be fascinated by the masks we wear.
Murray unravels Gerard’s many lies and misdirection’s about the real estate business, his mistress and the story he weaved that seemed to even convince himself that he was untouchable. At one point in deciphering Gerard, Murray reached out to an ex-FBI consultant who specialised in body language. Murray sent him a link to Gerard Baden-Clay’s one impromptu media interview that was indeed very damning, and seemed to paint him as a consummate actor – imitating grief. To compare what this FBI specialist thinks about Gerard’s performance, Murray watches a clip of Tom Meagher to compare in a grotesquely fascinating chapter;
I went back to YouTube and searched for clips of Tom Meagher. It seemed an obvious comparison and revealed a tale of two husbands. Meagher’s wife, Jill, vanished after a night out with friends in Melbourne in September 2012. It occurred just three months after Gerard Baden-Clay had been charged with murdering the wife he reported missing. As initial reports about Jill’s disappearance became public, a few cynics eyed her husband with suspicion. But Tom was an open book, throwing himself in front of the media in a constant push to keep his wife’s face on TV and in the newspapers.
David Murray’s book is also an ode to the Queensland police force who left no stone unturned, as well as a hat-tip to the everyday citizens who were quite incredible in helping to search for Allison. One story in particular about the boss of the Queensland Herbarium who went above-and-beyond as a specialist witness for the police, investigating plant varieties discovered matted in Allison’s hair was particularly touching, even while still so macabre.
Where the book falters is also, ironically, where Serial Podcast dropped the ball a bit too. As a recent article on the podcast pointed out; "Serial doesn’t really explore the wider issue of someone killing a woman,” and nor does Murray. I think there’s little doubt that there was psychological and emotional abuse happening to Allison at the hands of Gerard during their marriage. In a couple of paragraphs at the very end of the book there’s a description of how Allison’s cousin (who works for the Ipswich Women's Centre Against Domestic Violence) attended a Domestic Violence workshop and was shocked (and then oddly comforted) to see a photo of Gerard Baden-Clay flash up on the screen during a talk about types of men who kill their partners – Gerard being labelled a Narcisisst. Murray then makes a one-line mention of Allison’s cousin starting a Facebook page for people dealing with domestic abuse to share stories and seek support … this struck me as odd, when Murray went into so much fine detail about the Queensland Herbarium boss conducting research into plant varieties that he wouldn’t look further into this side of Allison Baden-Clay’s murder.
So. I’ve done it – read a true crime novel for the first time in years. It was a morbidly ‘enjoyable’ (that doesn’t feel like the right word, somehow?) reading experience. I’m not sure I’ll be rushing to pick another one up – I admired Murray’s attention to detail, his efforts to paint a full picture of Allison and how remarkable she was – consequently, what the world lost when she was murdered.
It was the end (and my enjoyment) of the 12-episode season one of Serial podcast that prompted me to read outside my normal comfort zone … and I picked up David Murray’s true crime novel about the 2012 disappearance and subsequent murder trial of Allison Baden-Clay because another pop-culture phenomenon got me thinking back on the case. I saw ‘Gone Girl’ – the adaptation of Gillian Flynn’s bestseller – this year, and the story of a wife-gone-missing and her husband faltering in the glare of the media spotlight had me drawing some serious parallels to the Baden-Clay case (as was Flynn’s intention – having researched many past famous cases of uxoricide for her book).
So I delved into David Murray’s true crime book – the case still so fresh, as the guilty verdict (and sentence of life imprisonment) of Allison’s husband Gerard Baden-Clay was handed down in July this year. David Murray – a journalist for The Courier-Mail and Sunday Mail – was on the case from the first hints of a drama unfolding back in April 2012, when Gerard Baden-Clay phoned police to report his wife missing.
The book opens on April 20, 2012 with Gerard making a phone-call to police to say he woke up to find his wife gone, unreturned from her usual morning walk and himself starting to worry because she had a conference to attend. When the first two officers on the scene see Gerard Baden-Clay they are struck by a weeping wound on his cheek, what looks to be scratch marks, but he claims are cuts from shaving. It is these startling wounds that immediately kick investigations into high-gear, and ultimately lead police to Gerard Baden-Clay as their prime suspect in the murder of his wife, once her body is found days later, unceremoniously dumped down a creek embankment.
David Murray then draws back from the case to take a broader look at the lives of Allison Dickie, and her future husband Gerard Clay (name changed to ‘Baden’-Clay to reflect his family’s affiliation to Robert Baden-Powell, the founder of the Scout Movement).
At times David Murray’s investigations into the parents, grandparents and great-grandparents of Allison and Gerard bored me … but the somewhat excessive information becomes crucial later on, as Murray rather masterfully builds a character depiction of Allison, but especially her elusive husband.
Journalist David Murray having contacts in the wealthy Brookfield area where the Baden-Clays lived started calling around town almost immediately to get an idea of this family in the wake of their tragedy. He was told glowing stories of Allison’s kindness and hard work, her self-sacrifice and love for her three young daughters. What he found about Gerard was trickier – sometimes hearing scathing character assessments from disgruntled former colleagues, locals who found Gerard’s entire family odd and self-important, and Murray was told the worst-kept secret in town was Gerard’s numerous affairs buried behind his family-man persona.
Living in Melbourne when this case was unfolding in Queensland, I quickly realised that I only knew the bare bones of this case which was dominating headlines around Australia, but especially in Queensland. I didn’t realise that there was such gossip and many armchair-detectives speculating almost immediately that “the husband did it”, or the numerous compelling pieces of evidence that left little doubt in people’s minds. In one particularly fascinating chapter, Murray comments on the new-age of reporting that was born out of this case that saw reporters ‘live-tweeting’ from inside the courtroom, and saw the case discussed (much like Serial podcast was) by internet-sleuths:
The amateur sleuth has long been a staple in crime fiction. The idea that average Joes and Josephines can crack cases that have stumped the professionals appeals to armchair detectives the world over.
Because I was so unfamiliar with all but the bare facts of the case, I found details into the Queensland police force’s amazingly detailed and steadfast case really fascinating. But I understand there’s probably not a lot here that Queenslanders who were glued to their TV screens didn’t already know – no thanks again to the Internet buzz the case created.
Almost 1500 lines of inquiry were run out during Operation Kilo Intrigue, three times as many as the average murder investigation.
But on the flipside of no really new or startling information, I found that David Murray’s true investigative strength lay in deciphering the ‘character’ of Gerard Baden-Clay. I think this case especially resonated because fairly soon the public realised that, behind the smiling photos and public appearances, the Baden-Clay’s lives and marriage were in tatters. Financial crisis and extramarital affairs were plaguing them; yet family, friends and the wider community thought them to be a tight-knit, happy family. There’s always going to be intriguing in ripping away a seemingly perfect veneer to show a darker underbelly – it’s the human condition to be fascinated by the masks we wear.
Murray unravels Gerard’s many lies and misdirection’s about the real estate business, his mistress and the story he weaved that seemed to even convince himself that he was untouchable. At one point in deciphering Gerard, Murray reached out to an ex-FBI consultant who specialised in body language. Murray sent him a link to Gerard Baden-Clay’s one impromptu media interview that was indeed very damning, and seemed to paint him as a consummate actor – imitating grief. To compare what this FBI specialist thinks about Gerard’s performance, Murray watches a clip of Tom Meagher to compare in a grotesquely fascinating chapter;
I went back to YouTube and searched for clips of Tom Meagher. It seemed an obvious comparison and revealed a tale of two husbands. Meagher’s wife, Jill, vanished after a night out with friends in Melbourne in September 2012. It occurred just three months after Gerard Baden-Clay had been charged with murdering the wife he reported missing. As initial reports about Jill’s disappearance became public, a few cynics eyed her husband with suspicion. But Tom was an open book, throwing himself in front of the media in a constant push to keep his wife’s face on TV and in the newspapers.
David Murray’s book is also an ode to the Queensland police force who left no stone unturned, as well as a hat-tip to the everyday citizens who were quite incredible in helping to search for Allison. One story in particular about the boss of the Queensland Herbarium who went above-and-beyond as a specialist witness for the police, investigating plant varieties discovered matted in Allison’s hair was particularly touching, even while still so macabre.
Where the book falters is also, ironically, where Serial Podcast dropped the ball a bit too. As a recent article on the podcast pointed out; "Serial doesn’t really explore the wider issue of someone killing a woman,” and nor does Murray. I think there’s little doubt that there was psychological and emotional abuse happening to Allison at the hands of Gerard during their marriage. In a couple of paragraphs at the very end of the book there’s a description of how Allison’s cousin (who works for the Ipswich Women's Centre Against Domestic Violence) attended a Domestic Violence workshop and was shocked (and then oddly comforted) to see a photo of Gerard Baden-Clay flash up on the screen during a talk about types of men who kill their partners – Gerard being labelled a Narcisisst. Murray then makes a one-line mention of Allison’s cousin starting a Facebook page for people dealing with domestic abuse to share stories and seek support … this struck me as odd, when Murray went into so much fine detail about the Queensland Herbarium boss conducting research into plant varieties that he wouldn’t look further into this side of Allison Baden-Clay’s murder.
So. I’ve done it – read a true crime novel for the first time in years. It was a morbidly ‘enjoyable’ (that doesn’t feel like the right word, somehow?) reading experience. I’m not sure I’ll be rushing to pick another one up – I admired Murray’s attention to detail, his efforts to paint a full picture of Allison and how remarkable she was – consequently, what the world lost when she was murdered.
July 18, 2016
This was an excellent telling of a tragic story. Well researched, fast paced, thorough and generally well written. He was respectful of Allison and her family and painted what I think is a fair portrait of this crime. I would read more written by this author.
January 5, 2020
Brilliant writing even though the content was so heartbreaking. One of the best biographies or recounts I’ve ever read in my life my thanks to David Murray for the effort he put into writing it. My heart absolutely breaks for Allison Baden Clay and her beautiful family and I hope that it is a long time before her killer husband sees freedom
December 6, 2017
4.5 stars
Sad story but a compelling read.
Well researched and well written.
Sad story but a compelling read.
Well researched and well written.
April 18, 2018
A very long book, but an incredibly well researched and thorough account of this crime. I'd highly recommend this to all true crime readers.
September 29, 2023
Heartbreaking but hard to put down
July 8, 2015
Many with a passing interest in the news might remember aspects about the case of the murder of Allison Baden-Clay. Unfortunately she is yet another woman, killed by their domestic partner, for reasons which are impossible to justify. David Murray has done an outstanding job in THE MURDER OF ALLISON BADEN-CLAY in relating the stories of both sides of this case without resorting to either sensationalism or conclusion.
Whilst plenty of time is spent looking at the personality, behaviour and family background of Gerard Baden-Clay, equally Murray takes the time to introduce the reader to Allison, something which, unfortunately, is often missing from the reporting of a crime and the subsequent trial. Allison seems to have been a very conscientious and loving woman who was prepared to try to make her marriage survive, despite the serial unfaithfulness of her husband. A classic case of emotional abuse and controlling behaviour the informed manner in which Murray lays out the details of the case make the events even more chilling. The pointers to Gerard Baden-Clay's personality type are there, with the benefit of distance and hindsight, more sobering perhaps because of that. His behaviour post Allison's disappearance was particularly bizarre, and the reader can't help but wonder if that level of lack of awareness of reality is believable. Which, obviously, it is. Here is a man after all that callously dumped his wife's body, pretended he had no idea what had happened or where she was, stayed away from the massive search looking for her, tried to maintain his control over his daughters and basically acted like nothing was his fault / nothing would ever touch him.
From the outset he's clearly a narcissistic personality type, the theory and attributes of which Murray expands on at the end of the book. It's not just Allison that he seems to have been able to deceive though, although the unravelling of his business relationships happened pretty rapidly, and about the time in which his relationship with Allison started to experience some real pressure from her. Having said that, the idea that a man like Baden-Clay could attract another woman (his long-term mistress), who remained faithful even without the complications of children to support and financial / social ties that bind, is discomforting to say the least.
Murray has approached the subject matter of THE MURDER OF ALLISON BADEN-CLAY with care and respect. He looks at all the aspects of what makes a man not just kill his wife, but dump her body so disrespectfully, and then behave in such a callous and calculating manner, but he remembers to give the victim a profile, and her grieving family and friends. Worth reading if you're at all interested in some insight into the shameful level of domestic violence cases occurring with horrific regularity in Australia.
http://www.austcrimefiction.org/revie...
Whilst plenty of time is spent looking at the personality, behaviour and family background of Gerard Baden-Clay, equally Murray takes the time to introduce the reader to Allison, something which, unfortunately, is often missing from the reporting of a crime and the subsequent trial. Allison seems to have been a very conscientious and loving woman who was prepared to try to make her marriage survive, despite the serial unfaithfulness of her husband. A classic case of emotional abuse and controlling behaviour the informed manner in which Murray lays out the details of the case make the events even more chilling. The pointers to Gerard Baden-Clay's personality type are there, with the benefit of distance and hindsight, more sobering perhaps because of that. His behaviour post Allison's disappearance was particularly bizarre, and the reader can't help but wonder if that level of lack of awareness of reality is believable. Which, obviously, it is. Here is a man after all that callously dumped his wife's body, pretended he had no idea what had happened or where she was, stayed away from the massive search looking for her, tried to maintain his control over his daughters and basically acted like nothing was his fault / nothing would ever touch him.
From the outset he's clearly a narcissistic personality type, the theory and attributes of which Murray expands on at the end of the book. It's not just Allison that he seems to have been able to deceive though, although the unravelling of his business relationships happened pretty rapidly, and about the time in which his relationship with Allison started to experience some real pressure from her. Having said that, the idea that a man like Baden-Clay could attract another woman (his long-term mistress), who remained faithful even without the complications of children to support and financial / social ties that bind, is discomforting to say the least.
Murray has approached the subject matter of THE MURDER OF ALLISON BADEN-CLAY with care and respect. He looks at all the aspects of what makes a man not just kill his wife, but dump her body so disrespectfully, and then behave in such a callous and calculating manner, but he remembers to give the victim a profile, and her grieving family and friends. Worth reading if you're at all interested in some insight into the shameful level of domestic violence cases occurring with horrific regularity in Australia.
http://www.austcrimefiction.org/revie...
December 27, 2014
Having kept up with the investigation and trial online, there wasn't a lot of new information in this book. A few conversations and Allison's letter are all that stand out to me. The inclusion of Websleuths was an interesting diversion. I liked how it depicted the tension between traditional media and "the masses" having a platform that garners interest and engagement - Murray lightly criticises online participants for wanting to inject themselves into the fray, yet he is the one who breaks the story of Baden-Clay's affair in the mainstream media for interest's sake only. The established media touts the lack of boundaries online as keeping them apart from the chatter online, however their strong desire for any new photos or information (the pie face photo, staking out McHugh at the courthouse) is similar, if only more gauche in that they are paid for it. Kyriacou seems to have merged the old and the new seamlessly in her reporting via twitter, using it to break down barriers in sharing information, where others seem to be intent on maintaining the old guard. I hope there are more journalists coming through that can emulate her approach.
I think Murray portrayed Baden-Clay and his family in the way many saw them as this unfolded, without saying outright they are a bunch of wanky arseholes. We all know people like this (unless we are them), we have probably all been sucked in for a time for someone who focuses their charm on you, whether it be a lover, friend, acquaintance or business associate. It is only when you see it from another angle you recognise it. The damage is twofold, not only when you are successfully duped, but because of the chasm it creates between people who can see clearly and those still being blinded. The more we talk about this sort of dynamic the better. Sadly Allison and her loved ones paid the ultimate price in order for this to come to wider attention, but I hope Allison's story sticks in the minds of many when they are dealing with the sly, unethical and selfish.
I am hoping that there would be more on the rumours suggesting Nigel Baden-Clay's potential involvement that evening. Gerard's most stringent denials were about leaving his daughters unattended. A deeper analysis of the data that lead to the misidentified face-time call, and an exploration of how the numerous bus-stop rumours came to light would have added some weight to this book. Were there any Bruce Overland-esque "field signals" used that evening to gather assistance? I can only hope that the barest whisper of these subjects in this book mean that something is still in the works for those who may have assisted Gerard.
I think Murray portrayed Baden-Clay and his family in the way many saw them as this unfolded, without saying outright they are a bunch of wanky arseholes. We all know people like this (unless we are them), we have probably all been sucked in for a time for someone who focuses their charm on you, whether it be a lover, friend, acquaintance or business associate. It is only when you see it from another angle you recognise it. The damage is twofold, not only when you are successfully duped, but because of the chasm it creates between people who can see clearly and those still being blinded. The more we talk about this sort of dynamic the better. Sadly Allison and her loved ones paid the ultimate price in order for this to come to wider attention, but I hope Allison's story sticks in the minds of many when they are dealing with the sly, unethical and selfish.
I am hoping that there would be more on the rumours suggesting Nigel Baden-Clay's potential involvement that evening. Gerard's most stringent denials were about leaving his daughters unattended. A deeper analysis of the data that lead to the misidentified face-time call, and an exploration of how the numerous bus-stop rumours came to light would have added some weight to this book. Were there any Bruce Overland-esque "field signals" used that evening to gather assistance? I can only hope that the barest whisper of these subjects in this book mean that something is still in the works for those who may have assisted Gerard.
August 30, 2017
I am surprised that I had not heard of this case, considering it only happened a few years ago and that it was in Australia.
I found myself engrossed in this book. There was a lot to take in but it never got bogged down.
Sadly, another case of domestic violence leading to the death of a woman. Not only was Allison's husband a narcissistic, but her inlaws were not far off that mark, too. One cannot help but getting angrier and angrier as one reads on.
The defence's and her husband's smearing of Allison's character in court was reprehensible but her sister's impact statement was powerful and spot on and truly a 'highlight' of the whole affair, for lack of a better word.
Whilst reading this book, I discovered an updated edition has just or is just about to come out, that includes more damning details.
I found myself engrossed in this book. There was a lot to take in but it never got bogged down.
Sadly, another case of domestic violence leading to the death of a woman. Not only was Allison's husband a narcissistic, but her inlaws were not far off that mark, too. One cannot help but getting angrier and angrier as one reads on.
The defence's and her husband's smearing of Allison's character in court was reprehensible but her sister's impact statement was powerful and spot on and truly a 'highlight' of the whole affair, for lack of a better word.
Whilst reading this book, I discovered an updated edition has just or is just about to come out, that includes more damning details.
January 3, 2015
This was an interesting book but I don't really think it shared much that I couldn't have found out via reading news articles about the case. I think I would have preferred slightly more focus on the trial and slightly less focus on Gerard Baden-Clay's family history and all about what he was doing in the years/months leading up to the murder, but I suppose it all worked to paint a portrait of him as a (selfish, cruel, awful etc) man. The parts about Allison Baden-Clay reading Dr Phil books to try and make herself a better wife and mother were really heartbreaking and she seems like she was a really lovely person who deserved so much better. All in all an interesting, if probably a bit longer than necessary, and very sad story.
April 4, 2017
Wonderfully written with a great mix of facts, background information, other people's stories that were linked in wonderfully as well as a natural progress of the case. The novel structure was perfect and was simple to follow and understand while also allowing room for specific and scientific information.
June 6, 2015
A disturbing but true story. Very readable.
September 2, 2015
Well constructed and gripping account of recent events. I'm still reeling from some of the reportage.
February 3, 2020
It makes such a difference reading a true crime story that you actually remember happening, rather than one that occurred way back in the past. It hits close to home. This one hits particularly close to home though as I cross a lot of paths with the people and settings. The company that the Baden-Clays worked for is the same as the company I work for, the Gold Coast hotel where Gerard has some of his extramarital trysts can be seen clearly from my lounge room window and many of the Brisbane and surrounding areas are familiar territory.
Sometimes I find with true crime, you can accidentally slip in to a habit of reading as if it were a novel. Let’s be honest, when you are distanced it can be hard to believe that these things actually happen in the world! When you find yourself treading the same paths though it definitely sinks that element of reality in.
Murray has done a fantastic job with his style of writing which I think comes from seeing a lot of the events first hand – especially the court proceedings. The entire book is so factual but remains interesting and impossible to put down from start to finish.
I’ve read a past review that described it as reading like a police report which I struggle to find the truth in at all. Murray delves in to so much of the past from so many different angles and tells Allisons story the way she deserves it to be told.
He does not come out blasting Gerard Baden-Clay as a villain, yet lets the facts unfold so you discover for yourself piece by piece what a manipulating character he really was. The word narcissist could not fit a person more perfectly.
This is an incredulous string of events which lead to a murder so unnecessary and selfish that result in huge ramifications and injustices for the family and friends who are left without a loving mother, daughter, sister and friend.
“My life and that of my family will never be the same again and it is my hope that the convicted murderer will be given a lifetime to ponder his actions in taking the life of such a special woman, whose only crime was to love and be loved.” – Vanessa Anne Fowler, Victim Impact Statement (Allisons sister).
Sometimes I find with true crime, you can accidentally slip in to a habit of reading as if it were a novel. Let’s be honest, when you are distanced it can be hard to believe that these things actually happen in the world! When you find yourself treading the same paths though it definitely sinks that element of reality in.
Murray has done a fantastic job with his style of writing which I think comes from seeing a lot of the events first hand – especially the court proceedings. The entire book is so factual but remains interesting and impossible to put down from start to finish.
I’ve read a past review that described it as reading like a police report which I struggle to find the truth in at all. Murray delves in to so much of the past from so many different angles and tells Allisons story the way she deserves it to be told.
He does not come out blasting Gerard Baden-Clay as a villain, yet lets the facts unfold so you discover for yourself piece by piece what a manipulating character he really was. The word narcissist could not fit a person more perfectly.
This is an incredulous string of events which lead to a murder so unnecessary and selfish that result in huge ramifications and injustices for the family and friends who are left without a loving mother, daughter, sister and friend.
“My life and that of my family will never be the same again and it is my hope that the convicted murderer will be given a lifetime to ponder his actions in taking the life of such a special woman, whose only crime was to love and be loved.” – Vanessa Anne Fowler, Victim Impact Statement (Allisons sister).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 18, 2021
This Australian true crime book is exciting and well-written, infused with emotion and thrills.
Before now, I had never read a proper true crime book before. I'm not too sure what interested me enough to walk to my public library and browse the section dedicated to the genre, but all I know is that when I left the building I had a book called THE MURDER OF ALLISON BADEN-CLAY, which chronicled the murder of a woman who was reported missing by her husband - who was suspected almost immediately when police found multiple scratches on his face, which looked very much like they were made by fingernails.
David Murray, a reporter who followed the progress of the case while it was happening in 2012, wrote his true-crime novel pretty well; not only was the writing style easy to get into, but Murray also managed to evoke my emotions almost instantly. I genuinely felt bad for Allison even before she was murder - well, I knew she was going to be murdered, but still - as not only was she a devoted wife, but she was a strong woman who was slowly crippled by her asshole of a husband. I also cared for some of the others, such as the police officers who moved Hell and Earth to reveal the identity of Allison's murderer.
Perhaps this devotion to the "characters" is what made the book so thrilling: as the police followed trails to the killer's identity, I was genuinely held in suspense. I knew that Gerard would be caught in the end - and yet I couldn't help but be thrilled as the police officers slowly edged towards this conclusion.
I was, to be honest, a bit reluctant to start THE MURDER OF ALLISON BADEN-CLAY based on my lack of experience in the true crime genre: what if I don't like it? What if I struggle through it, barely enjoying myself? However, having finished it, I am almost certain that I will be returning to true crime in the near future thanks to this book.
Before now, I had never read a proper true crime book before. I'm not too sure what interested me enough to walk to my public library and browse the section dedicated to the genre, but all I know is that when I left the building I had a book called THE MURDER OF ALLISON BADEN-CLAY, which chronicled the murder of a woman who was reported missing by her husband - who was suspected almost immediately when police found multiple scratches on his face, which looked very much like they were made by fingernails.
David Murray, a reporter who followed the progress of the case while it was happening in 2012, wrote his true-crime novel pretty well; not only was the writing style easy to get into, but Murray also managed to evoke my emotions almost instantly. I genuinely felt bad for Allison even before she was murder - well, I knew she was going to be murdered, but still - as not only was she a devoted wife, but she was a strong woman who was slowly crippled by her asshole of a husband. I also cared for some of the others, such as the police officers who moved Hell and Earth to reveal the identity of Allison's murderer.
Perhaps this devotion to the "characters" is what made the book so thrilling: as the police followed trails to the killer's identity, I was genuinely held in suspense. I knew that Gerard would be caught in the end - and yet I couldn't help but be thrilled as the police officers slowly edged towards this conclusion.
I was, to be honest, a bit reluctant to start THE MURDER OF ALLISON BADEN-CLAY based on my lack of experience in the true crime genre: what if I don't like it? What if I struggle through it, barely enjoying myself? However, having finished it, I am almost certain that I will be returning to true crime in the near future thanks to this book.
April 7, 2024
"The Murder of Allison Baden-Clay" by David Murray is a gripping and meticulously researched account of one of Australia's most high-profile cases. Murray delves deep into the tragic story of Allison Baden-Clay, a Queensland mother whose life was cut short in 2012. Her husband, Gerard Baden-Clay, was convicted of her murder in a trial that captivated the nation.
Murray carefully reconstructs the events leading up to Allison's disappearance, the subsequent police investigation, and the trial that followed. Through extensive interviews, courtroom transcripts, and investigative reporting, he provides readers with a comprehensive understanding of the case and the people involved.
One of the book's strengths lies in Murray's ability to humanize Allison Baden-Clay, portraying her as more than just a victim. He explores her life, her aspirations, and her struggles within her marriage, offering readers a poignant glimpse into the complexities of her character.
Moreover, Murray navigates the legal intricacies of the case with clarity, making it accessible to readers regardless of their familiarity with the Australian legal system. He skilfully unpacks the evidence presented during the trial, allowing readers to form their own opinions about the guilt or innocence of Gerard Baden-Clay.
While "The Murder of Allison Baden-Clay" is undoubtedly a true crime book, Murray handles the subject matter with sensitivity and respect for the victim and her family. He avoids sensationalism and instead focuses on presenting the facts in a balanced and objective manner.
Overall, David Murray's "The Murder of Allison Baden-Clay" is a compelling read that sheds light on a tragic case that continues to haunt Australia. It serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking justice for victims of domestic violence and the enduring impact of their stories on society.
Murray carefully reconstructs the events leading up to Allison's disappearance, the subsequent police investigation, and the trial that followed. Through extensive interviews, courtroom transcripts, and investigative reporting, he provides readers with a comprehensive understanding of the case and the people involved.
One of the book's strengths lies in Murray's ability to humanize Allison Baden-Clay, portraying her as more than just a victim. He explores her life, her aspirations, and her struggles within her marriage, offering readers a poignant glimpse into the complexities of her character.
Moreover, Murray navigates the legal intricacies of the case with clarity, making it accessible to readers regardless of their familiarity with the Australian legal system. He skilfully unpacks the evidence presented during the trial, allowing readers to form their own opinions about the guilt or innocence of Gerard Baden-Clay.
While "The Murder of Allison Baden-Clay" is undoubtedly a true crime book, Murray handles the subject matter with sensitivity and respect for the victim and her family. He avoids sensationalism and instead focuses on presenting the facts in a balanced and objective manner.
Overall, David Murray's "The Murder of Allison Baden-Clay" is a compelling read that sheds light on a tragic case that continues to haunt Australia. It serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking justice for victims of domestic violence and the enduring impact of their stories on society.
July 12, 2019
A good friend of mine was a good friend of Allison's. I only knew what they had experienced personally, and then what I could find online from America. So it was interesting to read the story as told by a journalist. It's just a very sad, real, story, and an awful thing to go through for those that loved Allison and her girls.
It's written well; not sensationalized, nothing added just for effect. For example, the author explains how peculiar Allison and Gerard's wedding was, with Gerard refusing to buy alcohol and his horrendously long speech (my friend said they actually thought they remembered Gerard's family members giving long speeches too). But the author keeps the reader's focus on the wedding as a reflection of Gerard's narcissism, while demonstrating that Allison's willingness to demur to Gerard began on day one. This is one example of how the author gives a good account of the basic facts, in story form.
This is written with the bias of truth, with compassion and kindness for the victim. Gerard's lies and deception are given no credibility. His mistress is portrayed factually, but more of a victim than anyone who bore actual responsibility. In watching a TV interview of her I formed a different, more negative opinion.
In summary, this book gives a well-written account of a horribly sad story.
It's written well; not sensationalized, nothing added just for effect. For example, the author explains how peculiar Allison and Gerard's wedding was, with Gerard refusing to buy alcohol and his horrendously long speech (my friend said they actually thought they remembered Gerard's family members giving long speeches too). But the author keeps the reader's focus on the wedding as a reflection of Gerard's narcissism, while demonstrating that Allison's willingness to demur to Gerard began on day one. This is one example of how the author gives a good account of the basic facts, in story form.
This is written with the bias of truth, with compassion and kindness for the victim. Gerard's lies and deception are given no credibility. His mistress is portrayed factually, but more of a victim than anyone who bore actual responsibility. In watching a TV interview of her I formed a different, more negative opinion.
In summary, this book gives a well-written account of a horribly sad story.
Read
February 3, 2020David Murray is to be commended for the way he has written the true story of the murder of Allison Baden-Clay by her husband Gerard Baden-Clay. Reading about the dreadful manipulation and deceit that poor Allison suffered is heartbreaking. My sympathies are with Allison's family and I wish them all the very best today and in the years ahead while they guide and love their Granddaughters in the same way that they did with Allison. Since reading this book I have been online to see what else has happened in the time since the trial. It is hoped that the Life Sentence is LIFE. One report I read tells of Gerard getting special favours for good behaviour in prison and to me it showed that he was still manipulating to get want he wants. Selfish and Self Centered to the core. Personality or Sickness - whatever one likes to call it - like this do not change. Hopefully no parole for Gerard. I must admit that I did think that Gerard may have had help to hide (dump) Allison's body and to clean up the house - his father and the Vacuum Cleaner etc seemed very suspect. Maybe there is more to come about this case. It is a warning to all to remove themselves from the environment of a Narcissist - they are not all murderers but they do not make for a happy life. Rest in Peace Allison.
February 18, 2022
Occasionally certain crimes so engage the public that the interest and condemnation is overwhelmingly loud and universal. The murder of Allison Baden-Clay by her husband, Gerard, is such a crime. Perhaps most Australians saw themselves within the lifestyle of the Baden-Clays - financial worries, marital stress, personal doubt, and the pressures of raising children are all common concerns. But it becomes fascinating and heinous that Gerard dealt with such pressures through arrogance, infidelity, dishonesty, and ultimately murder. This book covers it all in great detail reflecting impeccable research. It is highly readable and utterly compelling. The author writes in short journalistic chapters which provide a sense of urgency, and build toward the tragic murder and its awful ramifications. Only occasionally digressing, the focus is sharp and although the book can’t answer every question raised by this crime, it certainly provides a devastating insight.
September 28, 2020
Read as part of 20/20 book challenge in the category of True Crime.
I was introduced to True Crime writing through my admiration for Helen Garner and her amazing works, The House of Grief and Joe Cinque's Consolation, both heart wrenching and amazing feats of journalism. While David Murray's work is not, perhaps, as empathetic as Garner's, it is still an incredible piece of journalism, with in-depth, extensive and far-reaching research and am amazing attention to detail. I really enjoy the way all the disparate pieces of information are drawn together. It is also an insight into the use, and misuse, of evidence and the way in which the court system works.
I'm not generally a fan of Crime Fiction, but I really appreciated this true account and was fully engaged throughout, even through the intricate detail. I read it in just a few sittings. Great journalism. ****
I was introduced to True Crime writing through my admiration for Helen Garner and her amazing works, The House of Grief and Joe Cinque's Consolation, both heart wrenching and amazing feats of journalism. While David Murray's work is not, perhaps, as empathetic as Garner's, it is still an incredible piece of journalism, with in-depth, extensive and far-reaching research and am amazing attention to detail. I really enjoy the way all the disparate pieces of information are drawn together. It is also an insight into the use, and misuse, of evidence and the way in which the court system works.
I'm not generally a fan of Crime Fiction, but I really appreciated this true account and was fully engaged throughout, even through the intricate detail. I read it in just a few sittings. Great journalism. ****
October 15, 2022
Allison Baden-Clay did not deserve what happened to her and it is sad her life ended simply because her husband wanted to be with another woman. For crying out loud leave your spouse before you even think about starting another relationship. Give her what is owed to her; she helped you to get to where you are. And ladies if the guy is married keep your hands and your thoughts to yourself. He does not belong to you.
I thought the book was well written, had an incredible amount of research and gave unbiased views of the families who were involved through no choice of their own. I very much enjoyed the writing style and thought it professionally crafted.
I can’t help wondering what Gerard Baden-Clay’s grandfather would think of him. Personally I thought he was a gutless, weak man.
I thought the book was well written, had an incredible amount of research and gave unbiased views of the families who were involved through no choice of their own. I very much enjoyed the writing style and thought it professionally crafted.
I can’t help wondering what Gerard Baden-Clay’s grandfather would think of him. Personally I thought he was a gutless, weak man.
January 4, 2024
Ag nee wat. Hierdie boek is nie vir my nie. Die skrywer rek alles onnodig uit en elke keer as 'n nuwe karakter verskyn, moet ek ALLES oor die karakter lees voordat ek kan lees wat sy doel nou eintlik in die boek is. Hierdie geld vir ryk en invloedryke mense, tot die flippen skoonmaker van die kantoor: Waar hulle skoolgegaan het, wie en wanneer hulle getrou het, hoeveel kinders (met name en geboortedatums), met wie die kinders getroud is, ens.
Verder skryf die skrywer ook dat die hoofkarakter altyd verwys het na sy oupa-grootjie wat Lord Baden-Powell 0, en verwys daarna...
Die lewe is te kort vir 'n hele boek van hierdie. Wikipedia het vinnig vir my vertel wie die moord gepleeg het en hoekom.
Verder skryf die skrywer ook dat die hoofkarakter altyd verwys het na sy oupa-grootjie wat Lord Baden-Powell 0, en verwys daarna...
Die lewe is te kort vir 'n hele boek van hierdie. Wikipedia het vinnig vir my vertel wie die moord gepleeg het en hoekom.
September 26, 2017
A True-Crime story. Something I didn't expect when I picked this up. I just attracted with the title.
I have to say the first two chapters hooked me in. The background story filled with lingering questions of whys. So many whys, actually. They started to unravel as the hunt process started. I called the whole process as "the hunt" since they started looking for the missing mother of three, until the rally in 2015. For someone who was unaware of the news and whatsoever, it was a delight for me to have things all laid out. Of course, there were some implied prejudices, but eh, sometimes hunch is a good prequisite for a strong conviction.
I have to say the first two chapters hooked me in. The background story filled with lingering questions of whys. So many whys, actually. They started to unravel as the hunt process started. I called the whole process as "the hunt" since they started looking for the missing mother of three, until the rally in 2015. For someone who was unaware of the news and whatsoever, it was a delight for me to have things all laid out. Of course, there were some implied prejudices, but eh, sometimes hunch is a good prequisite for a strong conviction.
February 4, 2025
The way in which this book centred around Allison Baden-Clay and her family is something that is rarely seen in true crime novels. David Murray took his passion for this case and infused it into every word. He also made sure to mention the histories of both Dickies and Baden-Clay families which brings so much more knowledge as we try to battle with all the emotion this book produced.
May Allison rest in peace & power knowing her daughters are protected by her beautiful family, and that she did the absolute best to make sure Gerard would be seen for who he truely was, a narcissistic husband who only cared about himself.
May Allison rest in peace & power knowing her daughters are protected by her beautiful family, and that she did the absolute best to make sure Gerard would be seen for who he truely was, a narcissistic husband who only cared about himself.
June 21, 2019
This is a book by a journalist, and it has the style of books by a journalist. The writing is clear and simple, no flashy technique or flourishes. Each chapter is nicely laid out, with anecdotes and introducing the new characters etc, but the book as a whole doesn't have a narrative arc. More or less, it starts at the beginning, and plods through the various phases: family backgrounds, upbringing & marriage, problems, search & investigation, trial, epilogue.
I enjoyed it, a couple of chapters at a time. Less interesting if you don't know west Brisbane, weren't here during the events.
I enjoyed it, a couple of chapters at a time. Less interesting if you don't know west Brisbane, weren't here during the events.
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