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Honour: Achieving Justice for Banaz Mahmod
When Rahmat Sulemani reported his girlfriend Banaz missing, it quickly became clear to DCI Caroline Goode that something was very wrong. In fact, Banaz had contacted her local police station multiple times before, even listing the names of the men she expected to murder her in a so-called 'honour' killing. Her parents didn't seem worried, but Banaz had already accused them of being part of the plot.
DCI Goode's team took on the investigation before they even had proof that a murder had taken place. What emerged was a shocking story of betrayal and a community-wide web of lies, which would take the team from suburban south London to the mountain ranges of Kurdistan, making covert recordings and piecing together cell phone data to finally bring the killers to justice.
DCI Goode's team took on the investigation before they even had proof that a murder had taken place. What emerged was a shocking story of betrayal and a community-wide web of lies, which would take the team from suburban south London to the mountain ranges of Kurdistan, making covert recordings and piecing together cell phone data to finally bring the killers to justice.
240 pages, Paperback
First published March 26, 2020
19 people are currently reading
230 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
November 27, 2020
Watching Caroline Goode in the documentary "Banaz; A Love Story" I was struck by how kind and compassionate she was, and her amazing account of trying to get justice for the woman she calls "our girl" really touched a nerve. Banaz was murdered by members of her family over 10 years ago in a pathetic attempt to restore the "honour" of the household after divorcing her abusive husband and finding love with a boy not chosen by her father. Her body was buried under the paving slabs of a suburban house and her relatives laughed and joked about raping and torturing her as she died. 5 times she went to the police to make complaints about her family; she said they wanted to kill her. 5 times she was ignored and left to go home to the very people who ended up killing her. She was even recorded on video by her boyfriend after having been force fed alcohol by her father and putting her arm through a neighbour's window trying to get away from him when she saw that he meant to murder her. The police officer was adamant she was attention seeking and manipulative. Banaz was failed by the police more times than you can believe. Caroline Goode moved hell and high water to get her the justice she deserved. I shed many tears as I turned the last page.
March 19, 2020
This is a phenomenal book on a harrowing but ground-breaking murder investigation and trial. I felt every emotion under the sun whilst reading this – agony, frustration, anger, sorrow, the exhilaration of justice but also, by the end, tears for a woman who never got to live a full and fulfilling life.
Banaz was a 20-year-old Kurdish woman living in the UK. She disappeared from her home in Lewisham, South London, in January 2006. However, she was not reported missing by her family; instead, the police were alerted to her sudden disappearance by Banaz’s boyfriend, Rahmat.
However, it quickly transpired that Banaz was known to the police. In the weeks leading up to her disappearance she had repeatedly warned the police that her immediate family, relatives and members of the Kurdish community were trying to kill her for fleeing her violent arranged marriage and starting a new relationship with another young Kurdish man – acts that her family considered a disgrace.
She was even was hospitalised after an attempted murder from her brother but, depressingly, these warnings were not heeded and, sure enough, one day she disappeared entirely.
“Most murder investigations start with a dead body.”
Enter Caroline Goode, the DCI tasked with the investigation of the disappearance and likely murder of Banaz. Caroline wrote this book and, in its pages, she has vividly captured the emotions, challenges and revelations of this hugely complex case.
“Our job was to unravel the confused story and find this woman who had reported her own murder and then gone missing.”
Caroline and her team work tirelessly to unravel a hugely complex case that saw an entire community (men and women) collude in the arrangement, execution and cover-up of the murder of Banaz, a victim of that awful phrase “honour-based violence”.
Caroline passionately conveys the challenge of navigating conflicting accounts, hearsay, false leads, and numerous criminal allegations. But this book is at its best as Caroline draws focus on how Banaz’s family were completely uninterested – even obstructive – in the investigation to find her.
This investigation was one of the first successfully prosecuted murders in the UK of women who had been murdered by their community for perceived shame and disgrace. It was also the first ever criminal case to successfully extradite charged persons from Iraq to stand trial in the UK.
The investigation chapters are pacey and fascinating, demonstrating how fine a thread these cases can hang on when there is so little admissible evidence to place before a jury. But this book is at its most shocking as it reveals the breadth of collusion in honour killings – and it is at its best as it demonstrates the strength t has given to women in these communities who face the same challenges as they see police officers determined to change how they support such women.
Let’s be clear though, the police do not come off Scott-free in Caroline’s honest recollections; she acknowledges that Banaz was let down during her lifetime, the victim of some dreadful dismissive behaviour from other police officers (who, thankfully, seem to have been duly disciplined).
This is a terrible true story and the dedication with which Caroline’s team pursued the perpetrators is affecting, but more so as they come to realise Banaz was shunned by her entire family and, therefore, how much the investigative team saw Banaz as ’their daughter,’ as someone they would fight for to ensure she could rest in peace. By the end I was in tears.
“Banaz was a caring, loving young woman with the whole of her life in front of her, and that life has been brutally cut short by the very people that should have loved her and protected her, in any terms the ultimate betrayal.”
At times, this book is hard to read but, my goodness, it is necessary.
Banaz was a 20-year-old Kurdish woman living in the UK. She disappeared from her home in Lewisham, South London, in January 2006. However, she was not reported missing by her family; instead, the police were alerted to her sudden disappearance by Banaz’s boyfriend, Rahmat.
However, it quickly transpired that Banaz was known to the police. In the weeks leading up to her disappearance she had repeatedly warned the police that her immediate family, relatives and members of the Kurdish community were trying to kill her for fleeing her violent arranged marriage and starting a new relationship with another young Kurdish man – acts that her family considered a disgrace.
She was even was hospitalised after an attempted murder from her brother but, depressingly, these warnings were not heeded and, sure enough, one day she disappeared entirely.
“Most murder investigations start with a dead body.”
Enter Caroline Goode, the DCI tasked with the investigation of the disappearance and likely murder of Banaz. Caroline wrote this book and, in its pages, she has vividly captured the emotions, challenges and revelations of this hugely complex case.
“Our job was to unravel the confused story and find this woman who had reported her own murder and then gone missing.”
Caroline and her team work tirelessly to unravel a hugely complex case that saw an entire community (men and women) collude in the arrangement, execution and cover-up of the murder of Banaz, a victim of that awful phrase “honour-based violence”.
Caroline passionately conveys the challenge of navigating conflicting accounts, hearsay, false leads, and numerous criminal allegations. But this book is at its best as Caroline draws focus on how Banaz’s family were completely uninterested – even obstructive – in the investigation to find her.
This investigation was one of the first successfully prosecuted murders in the UK of women who had been murdered by their community for perceived shame and disgrace. It was also the first ever criminal case to successfully extradite charged persons from Iraq to stand trial in the UK.
The investigation chapters are pacey and fascinating, demonstrating how fine a thread these cases can hang on when there is so little admissible evidence to place before a jury. But this book is at its most shocking as it reveals the breadth of collusion in honour killings – and it is at its best as it demonstrates the strength t has given to women in these communities who face the same challenges as they see police officers determined to change how they support such women.
Let’s be clear though, the police do not come off Scott-free in Caroline’s honest recollections; she acknowledges that Banaz was let down during her lifetime, the victim of some dreadful dismissive behaviour from other police officers (who, thankfully, seem to have been duly disciplined).
This is a terrible true story and the dedication with which Caroline’s team pursued the perpetrators is affecting, but more so as they come to realise Banaz was shunned by her entire family and, therefore, how much the investigative team saw Banaz as ’their daughter,’ as someone they would fight for to ensure she could rest in peace. By the end I was in tears.
“Banaz was a caring, loving young woman with the whole of her life in front of her, and that life has been brutally cut short by the very people that should have loved her and protected her, in any terms the ultimate betrayal.”
At times, this book is hard to read but, my goodness, it is necessary.
January 11, 2025
The first time I came across Banaz’s story was maybe around 2014 through the documentary Banaz. A Love Story (2013?). Every now and then her story would pop up on social media. It’s heartbreaking and horrifying.
I had no idea the lead DCI Caroline Goode had written a book about the case, but as soon as I found out I knew it's a must read. The book does not disappoint. DCI Goode goes through how a missing persons report turned into a murder investigation, the evidence, Banaz’s life prior to the murder, the trial and the measures taken to ensure that justice takes its course. A complex case well explained. Not an easy book to read, but I do not think that that should discourage you from picking it up and reading it.
Banaz was 20 when she was murdered. Her family murdered her in the name of honor – no honor in that, just murder. Banaz was not only failed by her family, but by the system as well. Like others familiar with her story, I have seen the tape of her giving a statement to the police. She detailed the inhuman and horrifying abuse she had experienced. At the end she slightly leans forward in her chair and says “now that I’m giving this statement, what can you do for me”, it’s heartbreaking. She was told that the police would have to do a follow up on her statement, confirming her story and going further with the investigation and “we will let you know what’s going on later on”, but they never did. Later investigation revealed that the police never followed up on her case and it took them three months just to write of her coming to give a statement. Banaz reached out to the police five times. Her boyfriend, Rahmat, recorded her giving a statement while laying on a hospital bed after surviving the first attempt on her life. The police officer who was supposed to take her statement disbelieved her, called her attention seeking and informed the family of her statement. Am I angry? Yes. Furious.
Some are saying that the failure to respond to Banaz’s cries for help failed as no one was familiar let alone trained to deal with honor-based violence and no one knew then the immense danger women put themselves in when turning to ask for help. The simple truth is, however, that no one had to be familiar with such form of violence to understand that an individual seeking help needs help. Her life was clearly at risk. What she needed most was compassion, but she was given none of that by her family nor the system while still alive.
DCI Goode wrote with compassion for Banaz. I give her credit for her dedication. This book was written to tell us Banaz's story, but at times it felt like DCI Goode wrote for Banaz letting her know that the murderers did not get away with their crimes. I was shocked to learn through this book that Rahmat died by suicide as he never recovered from Banaz’s murder and the trial. Both of them, Rahmat and Banaz, deserved better.
I recommend this book. If you are familiar with Banaz’s story you will learn more through this book. If you are not familiar with the case or honor-based violence I recommend this book and generally recommend educating yourself on gendered violence (GBV) – honor-based violence being only one form of many women are subjected to globally regardless of religion and culture.
I had no idea the lead DCI Caroline Goode had written a book about the case, but as soon as I found out I knew it's a must read. The book does not disappoint. DCI Goode goes through how a missing persons report turned into a murder investigation, the evidence, Banaz’s life prior to the murder, the trial and the measures taken to ensure that justice takes its course. A complex case well explained. Not an easy book to read, but I do not think that that should discourage you from picking it up and reading it.
Banaz was 20 when she was murdered. Her family murdered her in the name of honor – no honor in that, just murder. Banaz was not only failed by her family, but by the system as well. Like others familiar with her story, I have seen the tape of her giving a statement to the police. She detailed the inhuman and horrifying abuse she had experienced. At the end she slightly leans forward in her chair and says “now that I’m giving this statement, what can you do for me”, it’s heartbreaking. She was told that the police would have to do a follow up on her statement, confirming her story and going further with the investigation and “we will let you know what’s going on later on”, but they never did. Later investigation revealed that the police never followed up on her case and it took them three months just to write of her coming to give a statement. Banaz reached out to the police five times. Her boyfriend, Rahmat, recorded her giving a statement while laying on a hospital bed after surviving the first attempt on her life. The police officer who was supposed to take her statement disbelieved her, called her attention seeking and informed the family of her statement. Am I angry? Yes. Furious.
Some are saying that the failure to respond to Banaz’s cries for help failed as no one was familiar let alone trained to deal with honor-based violence and no one knew then the immense danger women put themselves in when turning to ask for help. The simple truth is, however, that no one had to be familiar with such form of violence to understand that an individual seeking help needs help. Her life was clearly at risk. What she needed most was compassion, but she was given none of that by her family nor the system while still alive.
DCI Goode wrote with compassion for Banaz. I give her credit for her dedication. This book was written to tell us Banaz's story, but at times it felt like DCI Goode wrote for Banaz letting her know that the murderers did not get away with their crimes. I was shocked to learn through this book that Rahmat died by suicide as he never recovered from Banaz’s murder and the trial. Both of them, Rahmat and Banaz, deserved better.
I recommend this book. If you are familiar with Banaz’s story you will learn more through this book. If you are not familiar with the case or honor-based violence I recommend this book and generally recommend educating yourself on gendered violence (GBV) – honor-based violence being only one form of many women are subjected to globally regardless of religion and culture.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 30, 2020
A excellent examination of the case of Banaz Mahmod who was murdered by relatives a few years ago. The book is written by the chief inspector on the case, who stopped at nothing to bring her killers to justice.
This case set the precedent for how honour based violence investigation is conducted in the UK. It was inspiring to read how the author challenged an entire community to seek justice for Banaz, risking her own well-being in the process. This is a devastating but important book about how violence against women within the Kurdish communities is handled and addressed by the police.
I would be interested to read more from this author, telling stories from her long career. A must read for true crime fans.
This case set the precedent for how honour based violence investigation is conducted in the UK. It was inspiring to read how the author challenged an entire community to seek justice for Banaz, risking her own well-being in the process. This is a devastating but important book about how violence against women within the Kurdish communities is handled and addressed by the police.
I would be interested to read more from this author, telling stories from her long career. A must read for true crime fans.
December 21, 2020
This is such an important read. It is a difficult read at times due to the nature of the crime and the callous disregard shown by the perpetrators. What it does do is show just how excellent the investigation was in bringing the perpetrators to justice. Caroline Goode received a well deserved medal for her hard work on this case.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 3, 2021
Amazing what one woman can do given the determination and some team work. Will be a TV series later this year. Well written and a a captivating story.
February 11, 2020
A beautiful woman murdered by her own family and that every action is boated upon the community, all for what?because she apparently brought down shame on her family! Written by the investigation officer, Caroline Goode, Honour screams horror of incidents that Banaz, a young Kurdish and ultimately leading to her painful death. Had this been a fictional book I would have still understood how extent the author's imagination can go but being a true event it shakes me up to my core. The book points out the lax nature of the police system which swore to protect us and the cruel side of our very own community which is so dear to us. Originally, asylum seekers, the Kurds fled from the atrocities they faced in Iraq only to show the same thing in their very own family! This book was difficult reading, its full of pain and betrayal and lies are all over here. It oddly reminds me of a book, "The last girl" written by Nobel Laureate, Nadia Murad.
The story goes beyond murder and investigation scene towards a more serious issue of firm misogyny and patriarchal society, an unhealthy one where the batons of family respect are handed forcibly on the hands of women. The extreme world where men are more manly when they show their beastly side and feminity of a woman lies in her subservience. This provides the perfect breeding ground for a toxic relationship. The book further focuses on the huge gap of cultural differences and lack of understanding shows how less we know and sometimes our behavior compared to the frog in the well.
Finally, the meticulousness and the dedication of the police team in giving justice to Banaz is worth mentioning and deserves a salute.
The story goes beyond murder and investigation scene towards a more serious issue of firm misogyny and patriarchal society, an unhealthy one where the batons of family respect are handed forcibly on the hands of women. The extreme world where men are more manly when they show their beastly side and feminity of a woman lies in her subservience. This provides the perfect breeding ground for a toxic relationship. The book further focuses on the huge gap of cultural differences and lack of understanding shows how less we know and sometimes our behavior compared to the frog in the well.
Finally, the meticulousness and the dedication of the police team in giving justice to Banaz is worth mentioning and deserves a salute.
July 21, 2020
I was in one of my 'true crime' moods and found this book - I was gripped by the first page and even though more than 15 years have passed, I remember the story in the news - It is heartrendingly sad and some of it doesn't bear thinking about as it would give you night mares but it is written by the DI in charge of the investigation which gives it an authenticity that other true crime stories lack.
From the offset she lays out the problems of the initial investigation, no body, crime scene, DNA - only a boyfriend, reporting a missing person. Even her parents did not report that she was missing, that of course was because they arranged it . Also Banaz herself had seeded evidence, as she had been to the police to ask for help, as she knew her life was in danger. They began by arresting the culprits and were allowed to record their conversations - These revealed the staggering cruelty and horrendous patriarchal society of this tribe of Kurdish Iraqis - basically all the men were boasting of what they'd done and almost 50 people were involved, one way of another - Even women of the tribe believed that she got what she deserved. Once they had all this taped evidence (some of which they could not use in a trail) they the tried to find concrete evidence through mobile phones and eventually found her body, stuffed in a suitcase ( which had been dragged along a high street, with an elbow and hair sticking out) she had been only 18. Anyway they charged her Dad, Uncle and one of three men who did the actual deed. Two had fled the country but Caroline was determined to get them, convincing her superiors to fund several trips to Iraq. These later investigations happened several years after the original investigation and many of the original team and been disbanded.
One of the fascinating aspect of the book was learning about a murder investigation from a DI's pov, the complexity of the law, the balancing of the books, the all nighters, staff sleeping at their desks or in cupboards for days on end, the tole on family life . How things take way, way much longer in reality that on crime dramas, the sifting of the earth when they were digging Banaz's grave ( 32 dustbins of earth to go through for forensic evidence)
The team called Banaz 'Our Girl' as her family had no regard for her - They even went to her funeral to ensure she was buried with some dignity ( the family had tried to trick them) And she gave credit for the bravery of Banaz' boyfriend ( who committed suicide 10 years later - having to lost his girlfriend and his whole community) and her sister who escaped.
From the offset she lays out the problems of the initial investigation, no body, crime scene, DNA - only a boyfriend, reporting a missing person. Even her parents did not report that she was missing, that of course was because they arranged it . Also Banaz herself had seeded evidence, as she had been to the police to ask for help, as she knew her life was in danger. They began by arresting the culprits and were allowed to record their conversations - These revealed the staggering cruelty and horrendous patriarchal society of this tribe of Kurdish Iraqis - basically all the men were boasting of what they'd done and almost 50 people were involved, one way of another - Even women of the tribe believed that she got what she deserved. Once they had all this taped evidence (some of which they could not use in a trail) they the tried to find concrete evidence through mobile phones and eventually found her body, stuffed in a suitcase ( which had been dragged along a high street, with an elbow and hair sticking out) she had been only 18. Anyway they charged her Dad, Uncle and one of three men who did the actual deed. Two had fled the country but Caroline was determined to get them, convincing her superiors to fund several trips to Iraq. These later investigations happened several years after the original investigation and many of the original team and been disbanded.
One of the fascinating aspect of the book was learning about a murder investigation from a DI's pov, the complexity of the law, the balancing of the books, the all nighters, staff sleeping at their desks or in cupboards for days on end, the tole on family life . How things take way, way much longer in reality that on crime dramas, the sifting of the earth when they were digging Banaz's grave ( 32 dustbins of earth to go through for forensic evidence)
The team called Banaz 'Our Girl' as her family had no regard for her - They even went to her funeral to ensure she was buried with some dignity ( the family had tried to trick them) And she gave credit for the bravery of Banaz' boyfriend ( who committed suicide 10 years later - having to lost his girlfriend and his whole community) and her sister who escaped.
Read
February 14, 2021Absolutely amazing book, carefully written based on the tragic story of Banaz Mahmod.
Cannot commend Caroline and her team enough on their work in solving such a complexed case, ridden with so many difficulties.
Ultimately happy to say Banaz got justice as all her killers are now serving life in prison for their horrific crimes and role in Banaz’s murder. Absolutely baffling how the people who are meant to love you unconditionally could treat you in such a way and end their daughter and niece’s life in such a cruel and horrific manner.
If you are considering reading this book then definitely do, it will open your eyes to honour based crime and how we need to continue to raise awareness of these horrific acts of violence.
Cannot commend Caroline and her team enough on their work in solving such a complexed case, ridden with so many difficulties.
Ultimately happy to say Banaz got justice as all her killers are now serving life in prison for their horrific crimes and role in Banaz’s murder. Absolutely baffling how the people who are meant to love you unconditionally could treat you in such a way and end their daughter and niece’s life in such a cruel and horrific manner.
If you are considering reading this book then definitely do, it will open your eyes to honour based crime and how we need to continue to raise awareness of these horrific acts of violence.
June 1, 2024
An absolutely harrowing story, but one that is so important to tell over and over.
What happened to Banaz Mahmod was an atrocious and despicable crime, involving an entire community of people who were hellbent on going to the most extreme lengths to achieve their goal.
Reading about the police failings leading up to Banaz's untimely murder was difficult. So many missed opportunities where her life could have been saved. An incredibly important lesson for all those in policing who may come into contact with victims of so-called honour-based abuse - you may only have one chance to save the life of a victim.
Reading Caroline's in-depth explanation of the whole investigation and consequent trials is fascinating, touching, and at times incredibly frustrating. The dedication and drive of Caroline and her entire team is almost unfathomable - the lengths they went to to drive the entire case home, including multiple trips to Iraq, fighting the lengthy legal battles for extradition of two of the suspects, and safeguarding the prosecution witnesses to enable them to safely give evidence, was incredible. The work they put in to achieve justice for "their girl" clearly shows that the officers involved had the highest level of professionalism and integrity.
The courage and strength of the prosecution witnesses, Rahmat and Bekhal, is incredible. To go against ones own family and community is something that most of us would never even have to think about, but was something that they had to do every single day of this ordeal, and for many years afterwards. They put their own lives at great risk to fight for justice for someone they loved, and they ultimately helped convict the offenders and put them away for life. Rahmat's unfortunate death is a stark reminder of the trauma caused by Banaz's death, and is another innocent life lost in this tragic story.
The love and respect that Caroline clearly has for Banaz is palpable throughout the entire book, and adds an air of humanity to what can sometimes become a bit of a stiff subject to read with police investigations and legal jargon. A moving and emotional story - one that will stay with me, and I imagine will stay with anyone who reads this book.
What happened to Banaz Mahmod was an atrocious and despicable crime, involving an entire community of people who were hellbent on going to the most extreme lengths to achieve their goal.
Reading about the police failings leading up to Banaz's untimely murder was difficult. So many missed opportunities where her life could have been saved. An incredibly important lesson for all those in policing who may come into contact with victims of so-called honour-based abuse - you may only have one chance to save the life of a victim.
Reading Caroline's in-depth explanation of the whole investigation and consequent trials is fascinating, touching, and at times incredibly frustrating. The dedication and drive of Caroline and her entire team is almost unfathomable - the lengths they went to to drive the entire case home, including multiple trips to Iraq, fighting the lengthy legal battles for extradition of two of the suspects, and safeguarding the prosecution witnesses to enable them to safely give evidence, was incredible. The work they put in to achieve justice for "their girl" clearly shows that the officers involved had the highest level of professionalism and integrity.
The courage and strength of the prosecution witnesses, Rahmat and Bekhal, is incredible. To go against ones own family and community is something that most of us would never even have to think about, but was something that they had to do every single day of this ordeal, and for many years afterwards. They put their own lives at great risk to fight for justice for someone they loved, and they ultimately helped convict the offenders and put them away for life. Rahmat's unfortunate death is a stark reminder of the trauma caused by Banaz's death, and is another innocent life lost in this tragic story.
The love and respect that Caroline clearly has for Banaz is palpable throughout the entire book, and adds an air of humanity to what can sometimes become a bit of a stiff subject to read with police investigations and legal jargon. A moving and emotional story - one that will stay with me, and I imagine will stay with anyone who reads this book.
May 11, 2021
In January 2006, DCI Caroline Goode took on an investigation of a missing young woman called Banaz Mahmod, allegedly murdered by her family in a honour killing. This book is the true story of the investigation into the murder, and the in which DCI Goode and her team took to achieve justice for Banaz.
This book really demonstrated the determination DCI Goode and her team had to solving the case, bringing the killers justice, and refusing to leave any loose ends. Her passion was really striking because, and as noted by her, others may be content to leave a job half-done but she was not. Reading about the extents she went to, battling with the Crown Prosecution Service extradition team to get the killers who fleed extradited from Iraqi Kurdistan despite being told no on more than one occasion, flying back and forth from Iraqi Kurdistan, presenting their case in court in Sulaymaniyah, was really refreshing after reading about the events leading up to and after Banaz's death.
I respect that Goode gave credit where credit was due to her team, of which the case may not have been solved without. It really put into context just how many people it really takes to solve a case and how they are all equally important in the process.
Throughout the book, Goode mentions other cases she was working on at the same time, and her family. It put into perspective how hectic her life must be, and despite it all she refused to leave any loose ends, and managed to bring all the killers to justice.
This book was also really informative of all the steps taken to solve a case, methods of collecting evidence, how cases are presented in court and what can and cannot be used as evidence in court.
In October of 2020, Caroline Goode gave a guest lecture for a Forensic Psychology module I was taking at University. Hearing firsthand from her herself was both shocking and inspiring. I immediately bought her book, and now I finally had time to read it. Despite being harrowing, I'm glad I did.
This book really demonstrated the determination DCI Goode and her team had to solving the case, bringing the killers justice, and refusing to leave any loose ends. Her passion was really striking because, and as noted by her, others may be content to leave a job half-done but she was not. Reading about the extents she went to, battling with the Crown Prosecution Service extradition team to get the killers who fleed extradited from Iraqi Kurdistan despite being told no on more than one occasion, flying back and forth from Iraqi Kurdistan, presenting their case in court in Sulaymaniyah, was really refreshing after reading about the events leading up to and after Banaz's death.
I respect that Goode gave credit where credit was due to her team, of which the case may not have been solved without. It really put into context just how many people it really takes to solve a case and how they are all equally important in the process.
Throughout the book, Goode mentions other cases she was working on at the same time, and her family. It put into perspective how hectic her life must be, and despite it all she refused to leave any loose ends, and managed to bring all the killers to justice.
This book was also really informative of all the steps taken to solve a case, methods of collecting evidence, how cases are presented in court and what can and cannot be used as evidence in court.
In October of 2020, Caroline Goode gave a guest lecture for a Forensic Psychology module I was taking at University. Hearing firsthand from her herself was both shocking and inspiring. I immediately bought her book, and now I finally had time to read it. Despite being harrowing, I'm glad I did.
August 26, 2020
This is one of the best books I've read. It's written with so much compassion and sensitivity for Banaz, but also explains a highly complex case clearly and in a very readable fashion.
I got the impression the book was written primarily for Banaz, rather than any personal motive the author had for herself, and I learnt so much about who Banaz was/what she was up against/how she struggled to find freedom and love in her life. By the end, I felt she was my friend somehow. I think it takes a lot of writing skill and a good structure to provoke these feelings in readers as well as describing the multiple layers of the investigative case.
Reading this also provided a fascinating insight into policing and detective work, and opened up a whole new world of financial/legal aspects that detectives have to contend with. Previously, I had no idea all this was going on behind the scenes.
Caroline Goode is obviously brilliant at her job, but her life's work is nothing short of incredible. I was lucky enough to meet her briefly (only for five mins) a few years ago at an event supporting those affected by honour-based violence. I didn't know who she was at the time, other than her name and that she was a detective on Banaz Mahmod's case...my impression was that she was very warm and approachable...and I can't believe that is the same woman who's done *all* these amazing things, because she was far too modest and normal! I'm really glad I had no idea of all the amazing things she's done, or I would have been a bit awkward and awestruck around her!
I've already given this book to a friend who's considering applying for the detective training scheme to show her what a massive difference she can make - Caroline Goode is such an obvious role model for anyone going into the Met. And for me, Banaz is a role model for her courage and tenacity in trying to live her life the way she wanted, despite the obstacles.
I got the impression the book was written primarily for Banaz, rather than any personal motive the author had for herself, and I learnt so much about who Banaz was/what she was up against/how she struggled to find freedom and love in her life. By the end, I felt she was my friend somehow. I think it takes a lot of writing skill and a good structure to provoke these feelings in readers as well as describing the multiple layers of the investigative case.
Reading this also provided a fascinating insight into policing and detective work, and opened up a whole new world of financial/legal aspects that detectives have to contend with. Previously, I had no idea all this was going on behind the scenes.
Caroline Goode is obviously brilliant at her job, but her life's work is nothing short of incredible. I was lucky enough to meet her briefly (only for five mins) a few years ago at an event supporting those affected by honour-based violence. I didn't know who she was at the time, other than her name and that she was a detective on Banaz Mahmod's case...my impression was that she was very warm and approachable...and I can't believe that is the same woman who's done *all* these amazing things, because she was far too modest and normal! I'm really glad I had no idea of all the amazing things she's done, or I would have been a bit awkward and awestruck around her!
I've already given this book to a friend who's considering applying for the detective training scheme to show her what a massive difference she can make - Caroline Goode is such an obvious role model for anyone going into the Met. And for me, Banaz is a role model for her courage and tenacity in trying to live her life the way she wanted, despite the obstacles.
April 28, 2020
Banaz Mahmod was a Kurdish woman who lived in London and was murdered at aged 20 on the orders of her family in an honour killing. Weeks before her disappearance, Banaz had in fact gone to the police and told them her immediate family want her dead as she had fled her abusive arranged marriage and had began a relationship with another Kurdish man and that brought shame to the family. The police filed a report, even went to speak to her parents about her fears but nothing more was done. When Banaz disappeared, her family did not bring it to the attention of the police, it was the boyfriend. DCI Caroline Goode and her team were tasked with the investigation of the disappearance and likely murder of Banaz. The team wanted to bring justice for Banaz Mahmod and the investigation took them across the UK and Kurdistan making covert recordings and piercing together cell phone data to finally bring the killers to justice. This was the first ever criminal case to successfully extradite charged persons from Iraq to stand trial in the UK. This book detailed the investigation right from the beginning to the end.
This story was shocking. The investigation was very interesting and Caroline and her team never gave up despite the dead ends they encountered. Caroline knew the family was behind the disappearance. Although Caroline did a fantastic job bringing the killers to justice, the police that first spoke to Banaz (when she gave a statement) did let her down. She even asked them “what can you do for me?” - her final question is haunting. Reading this book, I felt angry for Banaz but mainly deeply saddened that a young girl was so scared for her life and of her family. Family is meant to protect and care for one another. I feel more education needs to happen
This story was shocking. The investigation was very interesting and Caroline and her team never gave up despite the dead ends they encountered. Caroline knew the family was behind the disappearance. Although Caroline did a fantastic job bringing the killers to justice, the police that first spoke to Banaz (when she gave a statement) did let her down. She even asked them “what can you do for me?” - her final question is haunting. Reading this book, I felt angry for Banaz but mainly deeply saddened that a young girl was so scared for her life and of her family. Family is meant to protect and care for one another. I feel more education needs to happen
November 14, 2023
This book is centred around “honour killings”, it answers questions that many have been seeking for young Banaz. A 20 year old Kurdish woman who went missing on 24 January 2006. Her crime? Escaping from a abusive husband. Finding love with a kind hearted man from her own background. I really felt Banaz and Rahmat were star crossed lovers, their love story was so tragic, he loved her so much that he could not imagine a world without her! It was devastating to know he ‘did not move on’ but simply “moved onto the afterlife”. I was so angry at the failings of the metropolitan police! Had the incompetent police officer who had interviewed her at the café, believed her that day, she would still be alive! Instead the stupid woman goes out and tells her father, Banaz accused him of attempted murder! Years later she tries to lay the blame of her incompetence on Caroline, the only lady and her lovely team, who helped Banaz get justice.
I remember reading about this case several years ago, after reading the book many years later, the pain of what this poor woman went through is still there. I keep thinking she would have been this many years old…
The best thing? Knowing this filthy murderers got life sentences! I can’t even describe the horror, reading about the murder taking place, but knowing her sister was right above! Knowing what was happening below! All she had to do was make one phone call for help…
I remember reading about this case several years ago, after reading the book many years later, the pain of what this poor woman went through is still there. I keep thinking she would have been this many years old…
The best thing? Knowing this filthy murderers got life sentences! I can’t even describe the horror, reading about the murder taking place, but knowing her sister was right above! Knowing what was happening below! All she had to do was make one phone call for help…
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 22, 2021
Great job done
For many years I had been hearing about Banaz's murder, how appalling it was especially as her family were involved.
This book was really a testimony to a great job done by the investigation team, lead by a very determined senior investigating officer backed by a great bunch of officers, rightly so got the best outcomes possible for the victim.
More importantly they have given Banaz a voice and every woman who finds themselves in the same position. Sadly, this is still very prevalent in many communities and not enough is being done to eradicate the problem.
I just hope we don't read too many horrific stories like Banaz's in the future and that the police are better equipped to listen, understand and prepared to take action, hopefully many more lives will be saved along with preservation of life.
For many years I had been hearing about Banaz's murder, how appalling it was especially as her family were involved.
This book was really a testimony to a great job done by the investigation team, lead by a very determined senior investigating officer backed by a great bunch of officers, rightly so got the best outcomes possible for the victim.
More importantly they have given Banaz a voice and every woman who finds themselves in the same position. Sadly, this is still very prevalent in many communities and not enough is being done to eradicate the problem.
I just hope we don't read too many horrific stories like Banaz's in the future and that the police are better equipped to listen, understand and prepared to take action, hopefully many more lives will be saved along with preservation of life.
October 18, 2020
Incredible Story
That a crime such as this could be committed in today's Britain beggars belief.
I was driven to read this account having watched the two part TV drama and the documentary.
To state that you wish "to wipe the very existence of" your own daughter from the earth, "as though she never existed" is almost beyond comprehension .
The book is well written and provides all the information not seen in TV, it is compelling reading. Even though I already knew the outcome i found myself urgently turning the pages to move the narrative along.
Read this book to understand how Britain now has 'communities within communities and to remember a beautiful young lady, Banaz, murdered to maintain a man's pride.
That a crime such as this could be committed in today's Britain beggars belief.
I was driven to read this account having watched the two part TV drama and the documentary.
To state that you wish "to wipe the very existence of" your own daughter from the earth, "as though she never existed" is almost beyond comprehension .
The book is well written and provides all the information not seen in TV, it is compelling reading. Even though I already knew the outcome i found myself urgently turning the pages to move the narrative along.
Read this book to understand how Britain now has 'communities within communities and to remember a beautiful young lady, Banaz, murdered to maintain a man's pride.
October 11, 2022
Interesting book
I am full of admiration for people who fight for justice and help vulnerable women. This book has opened my eyes to a practice that I thought I knew and had understanding of, to a degree. I have always felt sympathy for the way some women are treated in various cultures. Until reading this book I didn't realise how many people may be involved in killing a woman to keep a families honour and respect within their community. What an awful and frightening way to have to live for the girls who live under such a threat. The women who go against the practice and make honour killing public are very brave. I am enlightened after reading this book but very, very sad.
I am full of admiration for people who fight for justice and help vulnerable women. This book has opened my eyes to a practice that I thought I knew and had understanding of, to a degree. I have always felt sympathy for the way some women are treated in various cultures. Until reading this book I didn't realise how many people may be involved in killing a woman to keep a families honour and respect within their community. What an awful and frightening way to have to live for the girls who live under such a threat. The women who go against the practice and make honour killing public are very brave. I am enlightened after reading this book but very, very sad.
January 16, 2021
I found this book incredibly moving, eye opening, heartbreaking. It’s completely devastating what happened to Banaz and at times the book is extremely hard to read. It’s horrific how this young girl had her life taken from her.
Caroline Goode’s determination and compassion is evident in every page. It was interesting to read about the various stages of the investigation and the complexities and obstacles facing the team. It is a credit to them to have persevered with countless difficulties to bring the perpetrators of this sickening, brutal crime to justice. Rest in peace Banaz Mahmod
Caroline Goode’s determination and compassion is evident in every page. It was interesting to read about the various stages of the investigation and the complexities and obstacles facing the team. It is a credit to them to have persevered with countless difficulties to bring the perpetrators of this sickening, brutal crime to justice. Rest in peace Banaz Mahmod
June 15, 2022
This book was really good. So interesting and the work of the police in this book really shines through.
I didn't know anything about honour killing before reading this, so getting into the mindset of this family was eye-opening.
Lots of trigger warnings in this. Maybe don't read if you have violence triggers.
I found the author to be a poor narrator for this book though. I had to listen carefully sometimes and rewind some parts as she sped through some sections but really took her time with others.
I didn't know anything about honour killing before reading this, so getting into the mindset of this family was eye-opening.
Lots of trigger warnings in this. Maybe don't read if you have violence triggers.
I found the author to be a poor narrator for this book though. I had to listen carefully sometimes and rewind some parts as she sped through some sections but really took her time with others.
October 20, 2020
Absolutely heartbreaking read at times, but a very important one. Banaz's name, along with all the other women who have been subjected to the horror of 'honour' killings deserve to be remembered. This account of how her killers were brought to justice is gripping, detailed and unputdownable. The police officers were tireless in their commitment to achieving justice and raising awareness. Glad I read it, even if it was completely gut wrenching at times.
April 25, 2023
Mixed views. The case was very moving and all the details that’s were brought together to solve the mystery were very interesting but pro policing culture came through too strong - lots of moments that give away aspects of the police that are fundamentally not okay.
Also I just think it’s inappropriate when the victim is repeatedly referred to as ‘that beautiful girl’ as if the police wouldn’t try so hard if she wasn’t??
Also I just think it’s inappropriate when the victim is repeatedly referred to as ‘that beautiful girl’ as if the police wouldn’t try so hard if she wasn’t??
August 6, 2020
So glad that the author decided to share this case in book. It made disturbing reading and my heart breaks for Banaz and indeed her boyfriend but the bravery and determination of the police team are laudable.
October 17, 2020
A difficult yet excellent read. This is a well-written account of the fight to bring the killers of Banaz Mahmod to justice. Some of the details is really hard to read, but it is well worth the effort. Highly recommended.
June 28, 2021
A real-life true-crime story, covering the murder, investigation and subsequent trial of Banaz Mahmoud. It was frustrating, heartbreaking and strangely uplifting in equal measure. Banaz was repeatedly let down by the police until Caroline Goode took over her case (she also authors this book). Caroline's compassion and determination turned this case into a groundbreaking and history-making one, changing laws so that the perpetrators would get convicted and Banaz would get justice. Well-written and fast-paced, this book is also detailed throughout regarding police and legal procedures. A must-read for any true-crime fan.
November 1, 2021
I feel very conflicted about this book. It really gave every small detail about this case and left nothing out. The lead detective spoke a passionate about her role on this case and had her sights set on solving it. However, the other police officers in the book was a different story. They sounded lazy at the beginning and didn't even bat an eyelid at a women desperately seeking help. By the time the got their arses into gear, it was too late. It kinda shows how unhelpful they can be.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 12, 2022
Outstanding book
As an avid reader it is important to recognise exceptional books. The tenacity of this officer to pursue and to seek justice speaks volumes of what we define as policing , highly recommend this book , such a tragedy that you simply can't comprehend
As an avid reader it is important to recognise exceptional books. The tenacity of this officer to pursue and to seek justice speaks volumes of what we define as policing , highly recommend this book , such a tragedy that you simply can't comprehend
April 16, 2022
a heartbreaking true story, it really draws you in from the get go and you have to know what happens next. written with huge compassion and care.
only 4* because sometimes i was confused with names and what they’d done etc, i’m sure this was just me though.
only 4* because sometimes i was confused with names and what they’d done etc, i’m sure this was just me though.
May 23, 2023
Phenomenal book. Definitely worth a read. Just such a tragic story of this poor girl. And all the hard work that went into making sure all the people involved in her killing were held accountable. Amazing.
June 25, 2020
A very compelling account of a horrible honour crime that happened in the UK back in 2006.
July 18, 2020
Very interesting police procedural - some clichéd phrases but overall the author tells a fascinating account of bringing justice for the senseless murder of a young woman.
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