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Anatomy of a Crime
Gripping, unpredictable, and chilling, Anatomy of a Crime takes readers on a dark journey that's perfect for fans of Serial.
On the summer solstice in 2017, two girls walk into Blackleaf Forest.
Only one comes out alive.
Dubbed as the Sleeping Beauty Killer, and surrounded by rumours of witchcraft, Caris Kelly is sentenced to life in prison for murdering her best friend during a ritualistic thrill kill.
Although Caris insists she is innocent, no one believes her.
Then three years later, investigative journalist Lauren Taylor looks into the murder for her true crime podcast. She becomes convinced there's more to the flimsy witness testimony, sinister coincidences, and sensational press coverage and probes into the case. As prejudices are revealed, lies are uncovered, and secrets are blown wide open, a single question remains... is there really one truth about what happened that night? Or are there only different versions of the same story?
From the No 1 bestselling author of Look Behind You, Untouchable, Duplicity, Into the Darkness, and Their Last Breath.
On the summer solstice in 2017, two girls walk into Blackleaf Forest.
Only one comes out alive.
Dubbed as the Sleeping Beauty Killer, and surrounded by rumours of witchcraft, Caris Kelly is sentenced to life in prison for murdering her best friend during a ritualistic thrill kill.
Although Caris insists she is innocent, no one believes her.
Then three years later, investigative journalist Lauren Taylor looks into the murder for her true crime podcast. She becomes convinced there's more to the flimsy witness testimony, sinister coincidences, and sensational press coverage and probes into the case. As prejudices are revealed, lies are uncovered, and secrets are blown wide open, a single question remains... is there really one truth about what happened that night? Or are there only different versions of the same story?
From the No 1 bestselling author of Look Behind You, Untouchable, Duplicity, Into the Darkness, and Their Last Breath.
- GenresCrime
270 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 8, 2020
202 people are currently reading
303 people want to read
About the author
Sibel Hodge
53 books925 followersSibel Hodge is the author of the #1 Bestsellers Look Behind You, Untouchable, and Duplicity. Her books have sold over one million copies and are international bestsellers in the UK, USA, Australia, France, Canada and Germany. She writes in an eclectic mix of genres, and is a passionate human and animal rights advocate.
Her work has been nominated and shortlisted for numerous prizes, including the Harry Bowling Prize, the Yeovil Literary Prize, the Chapter One Promotions Novel Competition, The Romance Reviews’ prize for Best Novel with Romantic Elements and Indie Book Bargains’ Best Indie Book of 2012 in two categories. She was the winner of Best Children’s Book in the 2013 eFestival of Words; nominated for the 2015 BigAl’s Books and Pals Young Adult Readers’ Choice Award; winner of the Crime, Thrillers & Mystery Book from a Series Award in the SpaSpa Book Awards 2013; winner of the Readers’ Favorite Young Adult (Coming of Age) Honorable award in 2015; a New Adult finalist in the Oklahoma Romance Writers of America’s International Digital Awards 2015, and 2017 International Thriller Writers Award finalist for Best E-book Original Novel. Her novella Trafficked: The Diary of a Sex Slave has been listed as one of the top forty books about human rights by Accredited Online Colleges.
For Sibel’s latest book releases, giveaways and gossip, sign up to her newsletter at www.sibelhodge.com/contact-followme.php.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
August 19, 2020
Three years ago, two teenage girls walk into the Blackleaf Forest. Only one comes out alive.
Called the Sleeping Beauty Killer, Caris Kelly is sentenced to life in prison following the strangulation death of her best friend. The law enforcement believes Caris doped up a bottle wine, strangled her friend when she passed out, then draw a pentagram around her. The she, herself, drank some doped up wine to make it look like someone tried to kill her, too.
No one believes Caris even though she voices her innocence over and over again.
Investigative journalist Lauren Taylor has a true crime podcast. She's convince there's more to this story than the coverage and witness statements and decides to investigate this case. What she discovers are lies, half-truths, secrets, prejudices.
One question remains .... what is the truth about what happened that night?
This is such a well-written novel... could have been ripped from headline news. There are many voices telling the story. Lauren Taylor's voice is most often ... and then she goes back to re-question family and friends, lawyers, and then there are chapters that go back and tell the story of Caris and her friend when they first met in school and how their friendship developed. Written as a podcast, following each segment, the viewers/listeners comment on the web site. Not everyone agrees with Caris' innocence.
The characters are deftly drawn, credible, but some people lie and there are always deep dark secrets that beg to be brought into the light.
Many thanks to the author for the digital copy of this riveting psychological thriller. Highly recommend to anyone who enjoys crime fiction. Read and reviewed voluntarily, opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
September 7, 2020
ANATOMY OF A CRIME is a psychological mystery crime thriller by bestselling author Sibel Hodge. Another winner!
This story, and one that is surrounded by rumors of witchcraft, is about the Sleeping Beauty Killer, Caris Kelly, as relayed in a podcast called Anatomy of a Crime, hosted by journalist Lauren Taylor, her name a pseudonym to protect her identity. Back in 2017, 2 teenage girls went into Blackleaf Forest, but only one came out.
Caris Kelly is sentenced to life in prison for murdering her best friend, Flora during a ritualistic thrill kill.
Although Caris insists she is innocent, no one believes her.
The police evidence is weak and the witnesses are unreliable.
Then three years later, investigative journalist Lauren Taylor looks into the murder for her true crime podcast. She becomes convinced that maybe Caris is innocent. What she discovers are lies, prejudices and secrets. What is the truth? What happened that night?
Too many anomalies and unanswered questions.
This is a well-written novel written as a podcast with multiple POV’s. We are also provided with opinions of the listeners at the end of each episode, which adds more depth to the story. The characters are well-developed and very believable. This story of secrets and lies will have you guessing right to the end.
Highly recommended!
Many thanks to the author and The Book Club Reviewer Request Group (FB) for my digital copy.
This story, and one that is surrounded by rumors of witchcraft, is about the Sleeping Beauty Killer, Caris Kelly, as relayed in a podcast called Anatomy of a Crime, hosted by journalist Lauren Taylor, her name a pseudonym to protect her identity. Back in 2017, 2 teenage girls went into Blackleaf Forest, but only one came out.
Caris Kelly is sentenced to life in prison for murdering her best friend, Flora during a ritualistic thrill kill.
Although Caris insists she is innocent, no one believes her.
The police evidence is weak and the witnesses are unreliable.
Then three years later, investigative journalist Lauren Taylor looks into the murder for her true crime podcast. She becomes convinced that maybe Caris is innocent. What she discovers are lies, prejudices and secrets. What is the truth? What happened that night?
Too many anomalies and unanswered questions.
This is a well-written novel written as a podcast with multiple POV’s. We are also provided with opinions of the listeners at the end of each episode, which adds more depth to the story. The characters are well-developed and very believable. This story of secrets and lies will have you guessing right to the end.
Highly recommended!
Many thanks to the author and The Book Club Reviewer Request Group (FB) for my digital copy.
August 29, 2020
When Sibel Hodge releases a new crime fiction book I have to read it. I am never disappointed. When offered the opportunity to read Anatomy of a Crime by TBC on Facebook I jumped at the chance. I devoured it in 2 nights, I think this might be my new favourite of hers. Now this book is free on Kindle Unlimited or just $1.49 in Australia. You really have no excuse, get yourself a copy of this book, you won’t be sorry.
This is the sorry of the so called Sleeping Beauty Killer, Caris Kelly, as told in a podcast called Anatomy of a Crime , hosted by journalist Lauren Taylor. In 2017 , 2 teenage girls went into Blackleaf Forest, but only one came out. Why would Caris kill here best friend Flora? The police evidence is flimsy and the witness reports don’t make sense. The more Lauren investigates, the more she starts to think that Caris is innocent.
I loved the format of the this book, with multiple points of view as well as the podcast itself. We also see what listeners are thinking at the end of each episode with the comments. I think this would be a fantastic audio book too.
Thanks to TBC and Sibel Hodge for my copy of this book to read. Cannot recommend it more
This is the sorry of the so called Sleeping Beauty Killer, Caris Kelly, as told in a podcast called Anatomy of a Crime , hosted by journalist Lauren Taylor. In 2017 , 2 teenage girls went into Blackleaf Forest, but only one came out. Why would Caris kill here best friend Flora? The police evidence is flimsy and the witness reports don’t make sense. The more Lauren investigates, the more she starts to think that Caris is innocent.
I loved the format of the this book, with multiple points of view as well as the podcast itself. We also see what listeners are thinking at the end of each episode with the comments. I think this would be a fantastic audio book too.
Thanks to TBC and Sibel Hodge for my copy of this book to read. Cannot recommend it more
September 8, 2020
In the summer of 2017 two girls walk into Blackleaf forest but only one makes it back alive .The story of that day is told in a podcast called Anatomy of a Crime , hosted by journalist Lauren Taylor.
Anatomy of a Crime is a well written, tightly plotted, intense thriller that kept me hooked till the end.
I would like to thank the TBC Reviewers request group & the author for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest and fair review
Anatomy of a Crime is a well written, tightly plotted, intense thriller that kept me hooked till the end.
I would like to thank the TBC Reviewers request group & the author for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest and fair review
August 27, 2020
A very different approach to a crime thriller which had a gripping storyline and was bang up to date with the dark side of technology. Overall a great read.
August 9, 2020
This story is told as a podcast by Lauren Taylor, an investigative journalist, but that's not her real name, for reasons she will reveal when you read the book. She is looking into a crime that, as far as the police are concerned, is done and dusted, killer found and successfully prosecuted, but is that the real story? The crime happened in the summer of 2017, two 18 year old women went into Blackleaf Forest on the evening of the summer solstice, only one came out alive. Lauren investigates events that led up to that fateful night to try to determine if the police got it right, did they really get their killer, or are they still out there?
I thought the podcast format was very refreshing, a break from the norm and reading the comments from the listeners too, it was like reading a post on Facebook, seeing all the conflicting arguments, this shows how people can be influenced by others when they hear a different opinion to their own, something we all come across every day on social media.
I was hooked from the first chapter, it's a fast paced read that is packed with intrigue and suspense, every few pages I was changing my mind constantly over the verdict, did she really kill her best friend? Of course she didn't, but what if...? It's a situation that really gets you thinking that things are never as clear cut as they seem, it's very easy for the police to just accept that it must have been this person because they happened to be there, case closed, but sometimes it needs someone on the outside to look deeper, from a different perspective, before an innocent person's life is ruined by believing they're guilty. I loved the plot and the whole concept has been captured perfectly by the author.
I'd like to thank the author for the privilege of beta reading this book, I will post my review on Goodreads now and Amazon on publication day.
I thought the podcast format was very refreshing, a break from the norm and reading the comments from the listeners too, it was like reading a post on Facebook, seeing all the conflicting arguments, this shows how people can be influenced by others when they hear a different opinion to their own, something we all come across every day on social media.
I was hooked from the first chapter, it's a fast paced read that is packed with intrigue and suspense, every few pages I was changing my mind constantly over the verdict, did she really kill her best friend? Of course she didn't, but what if...? It's a situation that really gets you thinking that things are never as clear cut as they seem, it's very easy for the police to just accept that it must have been this person because they happened to be there, case closed, but sometimes it needs someone on the outside to look deeper, from a different perspective, before an innocent person's life is ruined by believing they're guilty. I loved the plot and the whole concept has been captured perfectly by the author.
I'd like to thank the author for the privilege of beta reading this book, I will post my review on Goodreads now and Amazon on publication day.
September 25, 2020
In 2017, 18 year old Flora was murdered. Her best friend Caris, named 'The Sleeping Beauties Killer,' is convicted and given a life sentence. But did things occur how the press portrayed them? Is Caris the type of girl that village locals think she is?
Through a series of pod-casts, the murder of Flora is examined in depth. An anonymous female investigator makes connections with those linked to both girls, in an effort to try and clear Caris's name.
As is the norm with Sibel's writing, this book is excellent. It covers many topics/issues alongside the murder. They make you think about what could happen to make someone want to kill. My opinion on Caris did change a couple of times as new information was uncovered, and some parts of the story made me feel really angry.
I highly recommend this book to crime fiction fans who are looking for something that little bit different.
Through a series of pod-casts, the murder of Flora is examined in depth. An anonymous female investigator makes connections with those linked to both girls, in an effort to try and clear Caris's name.
As is the norm with Sibel's writing, this book is excellent. It covers many topics/issues alongside the murder. They make you think about what could happen to make someone want to kill. My opinion on Caris did change a couple of times as new information was uncovered, and some parts of the story made me feel really angry.
I highly recommend this book to crime fiction fans who are looking for something that little bit different.
January 31, 2021
A contemporary crime novel using the creator of a true-crime podcast as a vehicle to examine how Caris Kelly was tried, and convicted, of killing her best friend Flora in the so called Sleeping Beauty Murder.
This book actually covers quite a lot of the themes of modern life from bullying, trolling, non-disclosure of evidence and young carers. Sometimes crime fiction that tries to cover a multitude of issues can forget that the reader is principally expecting an investigation. Despite my early worries, I'm pleased to confirm that Sibel Hodge delivers what I was looking for.
An interesting format and a fascinating read.
This book actually covers quite a lot of the themes of modern life from bullying, trolling, non-disclosure of evidence and young carers. Sometimes crime fiction that tries to cover a multitude of issues can forget that the reader is principally expecting an investigation. Despite my early worries, I'm pleased to confirm that Sibel Hodge delivers what I was looking for.
An interesting format and a fascinating read.
March 24, 2021
Absolutely Enthralling
OK, so...when I first picked up this book I really didn't think I would get on with it. Written in the style of a Reporter's Podcast my initial reaction was reminiscent of turning on the TV to watch that really good film you've been looking forward only to be disappointed to find it's actually a documentary. I almost tossed it aside.
BUT.....thank goodness I didn't!
By Episode 2 I was totally hooked and couldn't wait to find what revelations each new Podcast would throw up as the Journalistic Investigator delved into the case of Caris Kelly, jailed after being found guilty of murdering her best friend in a ritualistic killing.
The evidence against her is based wholly on her lifestyle. Raised within a Travelling Community but now living in a council house, struggling to adjust, subjected to bullying and mistrust by a community who had no understanding of her spiritual lifestyle... she simply didn't fit. Labelled a witch by the ignorant she had only one friend, Flora, the daughter of a local ex-hippie and a kindred spirit.
When both girls are found in woodland, one unconscious and one dead and posed within a stone circle, the finger of suspicion falls immediately on Caris. Gossips were quick to level allegations of witchcraft, devil worship, animal sacrifice against her...along with accusations of a rumoured lesbian relationship between the two girls having broken down and being the catalyst for a jealousy that culminated in murder.
Evidence of a man seen in the woods at the time is discounted because the witness is autistic and therefore his testimony is considered unreliable.
Can the investigation into the 3 year old crime turn up any new evidence or will it prove beyond doubt that the verdict was sound and the right person was jailed?
Behind the actual story telling we have the truly intriguing background of the pagan belief in universal energy and, had the author not sparked my interest so much, I would have finished the book far sooner. As it was I found myself frequently pressing the pause button whilst I googled everything I could find on the subject. I have to admit, if a chance read can change our belief in how nature and the universe work together as one, this has been my own personal pivotal point.
An absolutely fascinating read.
OK, so...when I first picked up this book I really didn't think I would get on with it. Written in the style of a Reporter's Podcast my initial reaction was reminiscent of turning on the TV to watch that really good film you've been looking forward only to be disappointed to find it's actually a documentary. I almost tossed it aside.
BUT.....thank goodness I didn't!
By Episode 2 I was totally hooked and couldn't wait to find what revelations each new Podcast would throw up as the Journalistic Investigator delved into the case of Caris Kelly, jailed after being found guilty of murdering her best friend in a ritualistic killing.
The evidence against her is based wholly on her lifestyle. Raised within a Travelling Community but now living in a council house, struggling to adjust, subjected to bullying and mistrust by a community who had no understanding of her spiritual lifestyle... she simply didn't fit. Labelled a witch by the ignorant she had only one friend, Flora, the daughter of a local ex-hippie and a kindred spirit.
When both girls are found in woodland, one unconscious and one dead and posed within a stone circle, the finger of suspicion falls immediately on Caris. Gossips were quick to level allegations of witchcraft, devil worship, animal sacrifice against her...along with accusations of a rumoured lesbian relationship between the two girls having broken down and being the catalyst for a jealousy that culminated in murder.
Evidence of a man seen in the woods at the time is discounted because the witness is autistic and therefore his testimony is considered unreliable.
Can the investigation into the 3 year old crime turn up any new evidence or will it prove beyond doubt that the verdict was sound and the right person was jailed?
Behind the actual story telling we have the truly intriguing background of the pagan belief in universal energy and, had the author not sparked my interest so much, I would have finished the book far sooner. As it was I found myself frequently pressing the pause button whilst I googled everything I could find on the subject. I have to admit, if a chance read can change our belief in how nature and the universe work together as one, this has been my own personal pivotal point.
An absolutely fascinating read.
November 10, 2020
This was brilliant. Not at all what I expected. It was so different from anything I’d read before!
It is set out in the form of a podcast narrated by the journalist Lauren who is looking into a crime that happened three years ago. The crime itself is fascinating, and the way it is kept unbiased as we hear from different characters is really unique. I actually felt as if I were following something that had actually happened. I even looked up Stoneminster and Rose Hurst to see if they existed and whether this was based on real events or not.
The comments feed at the end of each podcast was hilarious and so true to form. This was brilliantly executed.
I’d never come across the term ‘incel’ before, and it horrifies me that this can actually happen. What freaked me out more was that the next book I picked up to read (in a completely different genre) starts off with an incident surrounding an incel!
This author certainly knows how to pick hard-hitting topics to cover, and this is no exception. I think this book is going to stick in my mind for some time and will certainly be making my top five books for the year!
Thanks for reading! If you want to see more of my reviews visit www.pinkanddizzy.com
It is set out in the form of a podcast narrated by the journalist Lauren who is looking into a crime that happened three years ago. The crime itself is fascinating, and the way it is kept unbiased as we hear from different characters is really unique. I actually felt as if I were following something that had actually happened. I even looked up Stoneminster and Rose Hurst to see if they existed and whether this was based on real events or not.
The comments feed at the end of each podcast was hilarious and so true to form. This was brilliantly executed.
I’d never come across the term ‘incel’ before, and it horrifies me that this can actually happen. What freaked me out more was that the next book I picked up to read (in a completely different genre) starts off with an incident surrounding an incel!
This author certainly knows how to pick hard-hitting topics to cover, and this is no exception. I think this book is going to stick in my mind for some time and will certainly be making my top five books for the year!
Thanks for reading! If you want to see more of my reviews visit www.pinkanddizzy.com
September 23, 2020
I loved the angle of this book an Investigative Journalist delves into a murder case where a young ex traveller girl Caris is convicted of murdering her best friend Flora in a satanic ritual. Going through the evidence and trying to establish what really happened on that tragic Midsummer Night in a picture postcard perfect English town. This was written in the form of a podcast which made for a different reading experience. I found it engrossing, disturbing (on so many levels) and wonderfully written and plotted. The investigation looks at the backgrounds of both the convicted girl and her friend, interviewing numerous people including teachers, class mates, the victim's mum and a discredited witness and subjects the reader to different impressions of who Caris is and what went on that Midsummer night and to a lot of the prejudices, misconceptions and hate that exist in our society.
Highly recommended I devoured this in 3 sittings and would love to read another True Crime Podcast 4 - 4.5 stars
Highly recommended I devoured this in 3 sittings and would love to read another True Crime Podcast 4 - 4.5 stars
August 27, 2020
Lauren Taylor is an Investigative journalist. Through her podcast she wants to find the truth about what happened on a day three years ago, when two girls walked into Blackleaf Forest..a place where they say a witch once lived in Rose Cottage deep in the heart of the forest..Caris Kelly was sentenced to life for the murder of Flora Morgan and is now in HMP Ashmount. When Liz Jenkins and her husband stumbled upon the scene at Witch's Hill Flora was already dead and Caris barely conscious. As Laura questioned those that saw the girls that day ..and probes deeper into the girls pasts we begin to learn so much more about them ..They have been friends since the age of 13 ...what happened that day between The Sika Trail and Witch's Hill ...? Two beautiful girls , one dead the other incarcerated..The further we go into the podcast ..there are lies so dark and wicked unveiled. As Benjamin Disraeli once said there are three types of Lie .Lies, damned lies and statistics..Lauren is brilliant in her quest for the truth, delving deep and picking lies and prejudices apart .I finished this book in the early hours of the morning ..Sibel Hodge will lead you through a dark and twisted maze ..within its centre you can feel the moral of the story as the jigsaw comes together piece by piece . Lauren Taylor is Magnificent..I loved this writing .
August 27, 2020
Well, what can I say – I absolutely loved this book! It gripped me from page 1. I can honestly say I’ve never read anything like it - I really loved the format. Quite simply, I couldn’t put it down!
Sibel has a wonderful knack of creating very believable characters as well as building a marvelous sense of atmosphere – I actually felt as though I was listening to Lauren Taylor’s podcast.
I really felt for Caris, as a child, trying to deal with the death of her mother and then her father’s ill health, as well as coping daily with prejudice and racism at school – all of these things being out of her control, her friendship with Flora being so very important to her.
All in all, a brilliant book which has a satisfying end.
Sibel has a wonderful knack of creating very believable characters as well as building a marvelous sense of atmosphere – I actually felt as though I was listening to Lauren Taylor’s podcast.
I really felt for Caris, as a child, trying to deal with the death of her mother and then her father’s ill health, as well as coping daily with prejudice and racism at school – all of these things being out of her control, her friendship with Flora being so very important to her.
All in all, a brilliant book which has a satisfying end.
September 28, 2020
I've had this on my TBR for ages, and after seeing a review by an author I bumped it up.
Boy am I glad I did.
This is so much more than a story, a thriller, trying to solve a murder.
Its about prejudice, bullying, media interference, the failures of the justice system.
Its scary how easy it is for someone to hide behind an online persona and cause chaos. Although what the person done was obviously wrong, when you have been ostracised in society that much, you wonder where the responsibility lies.
If we keep degrading, ignoring those in society, is it any surprise they get angry and fight back. The seriously overweight, the autistic, the hippies, gypsies, white witches. Read this book and find out for yourself.
Boy am I glad I did.
This is so much more than a story, a thriller, trying to solve a murder.
Its about prejudice, bullying, media interference, the failures of the justice system.
Its scary how easy it is for someone to hide behind an online persona and cause chaos. Although what the person done was obviously wrong, when you have been ostracised in society that much, you wonder where the responsibility lies.
If we keep degrading, ignoring those in society, is it any surprise they get angry and fight back. The seriously overweight, the autistic, the hippies, gypsies, white witches. Read this book and find out for yourself.
September 13, 2020
A different read .. told as a podcast investigating the guilty sentence of caris who murdered her best friend Flora . Great story line and , as always from this author , very well written . My thanks to tbc reviewers for my copy
August 12, 2024
4.5 stars. Despite this taking me five days to read, I really enjoyed it. The podcast format was cool and engaging. The plot unfolded kind of like an onion, in layers. There wasn’t a big AHA! moment or anything, but the storytelling was good and it did keep me guessing about “who dunnit?”
September 2, 2020
I loved this book!
This book grabbed me from the first chapter! I love true crime podcasts, and this book reads just like one. It flows so well and keeps you hooked all the way through. Thank you for an enjoyable read!
This book grabbed me from the first chapter! I love true crime podcasts, and this book reads just like one. It flows so well and keeps you hooked all the way through. Thank you for an enjoyable read!
August 21, 2020
Recommend to crime fiction readers. Good Whodunnit investigation with paranormal touches
As a crime fiction fan, I was intrigued by the synopsis which promises a murder, possible police incompetence, and wrongful imprisonment. Plus, flimsy witness testimony, sinister coincidences, prejudices, lies and secrets. I also liked the possibility of an investigative reporter who may be an unreliable narrator. I approached this book as a challenge to investigate along w the reporter and to find the villain.
Many townspeople think Caris Kelly killed her best friend, Flora Morgan, three years ago. If Caris is innocent as she claims, who killed Flora? There are 30-40 characters in this short book of 260 pages, but I made a cast list and box-ticked to find the culprit. There are flashback chapters for Flora and Caris, which are marked but aren’t in any particular order. More problematic was when I came across an unknown person’s chapter. I re-read Unknown’s first page and decided it was the murderer’s POV. Overall, this is good crime fiction, with enough info to choose the culprit.
The podcast format is unique, as are the online appeals and commenting sections. What kept me reading were the anecdotes from the POVs of school mates, teachers, and townsfolk who knew Flora and Caris. There is a slight Rashomon-like flavor, but events/situations are colored by the provincial mindset of people living in a small town. I shuddered just thinking of my small town. I enjoyed the interviews, and some new-to-me info about dangers of online misogyny.
Trigger Warnings: Rape, terrible cruelty to animals, physical and mental bullying, cyberstalking, IRL stalking, and violent misogyny. Ghosts, witches, strange sensations, etc.
As a crime fiction fan, I was intrigued by the synopsis which promises a murder, possible police incompetence, and wrongful imprisonment. Plus, flimsy witness testimony, sinister coincidences, prejudices, lies and secrets. I also liked the possibility of an investigative reporter who may be an unreliable narrator. I approached this book as a challenge to investigate along w the reporter and to find the villain.
Many townspeople think Caris Kelly killed her best friend, Flora Morgan, three years ago. If Caris is innocent as she claims, who killed Flora? There are 30-40 characters in this short book of 260 pages, but I made a cast list and box-ticked to find the culprit. There are flashback chapters for Flora and Caris, which are marked but aren’t in any particular order. More problematic was when I came across an unknown person’s chapter. I re-read Unknown’s first page and decided it was the murderer’s POV. Overall, this is good crime fiction, with enough info to choose the culprit.
The podcast format is unique, as are the online appeals and commenting sections. What kept me reading were the anecdotes from the POVs of school mates, teachers, and townsfolk who knew Flora and Caris. There is a slight Rashomon-like flavor, but events/situations are colored by the provincial mindset of people living in a small town. I shuddered just thinking of my small town. I enjoyed the interviews, and some new-to-me info about dangers of online misogyny.
Trigger Warnings: Rape, terrible cruelty to animals, physical and mental bullying, cyberstalking, IRL stalking, and violent misogyny. Ghosts, witches, strange sensations, etc.
October 12, 2020
Sibel Hodge has written some amazing books but she has completely outdone herself with Anatomy of a Crime. Written in the form of a podcast, it is fresh, current and totally gripping. I read it in one sitting as I just couldn't put it down. Yes, it's THAT good.
I did listen to a few episodes of the Serial podcast many years ago and although I found it intriguing I was never hooked, unlike reading Anatomy of a Crime where I was hooked so much that I couldn't tear my eyes away from the page. I love the way it is written as if you're listening to a podcast and there are even comments from listeners that make it feel so realistic.
Lauren Taylor leaves no stone unturned in her true crime podcast as she investigates the death of 18 year old Flora Morgan, believed to have been killed by her best friend Caris Kelly in a ritualistic witchcraft murder. With unreliable witnesses who saw someone else in the forest that night being disregarded, all of the evidence points towards Caris who maintains her innocence. Lauren asks the questions that weren't asked at the trial and digs even further into the case to find out the shocking truth.
Anatomy of a Crime is absolutely brilliant; it's gripping, intriguing and completely addictive. I didn't even have to convince myself to read 'just one more chapter' as nothing could stop me from reading the whole book in one go! I do hope that Sibel Hodge decides to make this into a series as I love the podcast format; it really seems to add another dimension to the story.
Anatomy of a Crime is a book I'm going to be raving about for a long time; it's an absolute must read and so very highly recommended.
I chose to read an ARC and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
I did listen to a few episodes of the Serial podcast many years ago and although I found it intriguing I was never hooked, unlike reading Anatomy of a Crime where I was hooked so much that I couldn't tear my eyes away from the page. I love the way it is written as if you're listening to a podcast and there are even comments from listeners that make it feel so realistic.
Lauren Taylor leaves no stone unturned in her true crime podcast as she investigates the death of 18 year old Flora Morgan, believed to have been killed by her best friend Caris Kelly in a ritualistic witchcraft murder. With unreliable witnesses who saw someone else in the forest that night being disregarded, all of the evidence points towards Caris who maintains her innocence. Lauren asks the questions that weren't asked at the trial and digs even further into the case to find out the shocking truth.
Anatomy of a Crime is absolutely brilliant; it's gripping, intriguing and completely addictive. I didn't even have to convince myself to read 'just one more chapter' as nothing could stop me from reading the whole book in one go! I do hope that Sibel Hodge decides to make this into a series as I love the podcast format; it really seems to add another dimension to the story.
Anatomy of a Crime is a book I'm going to be raving about for a long time; it's an absolute must read and so very highly recommended.
I chose to read an ARC and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
August 23, 2020
What I love about a Sibel Hodge book is that you are always going to get a different story. No same old same old, with this author, she captovates and she writes well. Once more she takes a different path as we look into a crime, one that has face judge and jury and in the form of a Podcast we get to look at the evidence and decide was the out come correct. Two young women go into the forest, only one comes out alive, did she kill her friend? This story deals with truth and lies and how deception can lead you off the beaten track, and away from truth. It exposes the socal media culture of being judgemental, how minds can be closed to the truth wanting to believe only what an individual wants to believe. Thsi book was a lifeline to me, coming home every day exhausted from circumstance, Iwas soon lost in it and I needed to be lost in something. It is utterbrilliance, despite tiredness I read until daft o clock, and I loved it. We need more authors like Sibel Hodge, people who turn out a brand new story time after time, a story that is gripping and well researched but one that keeps you up far later than you should. Five stars again cant wait for more.
August 24, 2020
Whenever you pick up a Sibel Hodge book you know you are in for a good read and this is no exception.
'On the summer solstice in 2017, two girls walk into Blackleaf Forest. Only one comes out alive.
Dubbed as the Sleeping Beauty Killer, and surrounded by rumours of witchcraft, Caris Kelly is sentenced to life in prison for murdering her best friend during a ritualistic thrill kill.
Although Caris insists she is innocent, no one believes her.
Then three years later, investigative journalist Lauren Taylor looks into the murder for her true crime podcast.'
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Anatomy of a Crime. It is written in a unique formula as a podcast where you hear lots of different opinions and you get to judge for yourself what you believe to be the truth. I particularly liked the comments left by listeners as they were true to life with trolls and keyboard warriors galore.
This is a well written, well researched crime thriller with relateable characters. It is a story of friendship, predjudices, secrets and lies and it will have you guessing right to the end.
Highly recommended!
'On the summer solstice in 2017, two girls walk into Blackleaf Forest. Only one comes out alive.
Dubbed as the Sleeping Beauty Killer, and surrounded by rumours of witchcraft, Caris Kelly is sentenced to life in prison for murdering her best friend during a ritualistic thrill kill.
Although Caris insists she is innocent, no one believes her.
Then three years later, investigative journalist Lauren Taylor looks into the murder for her true crime podcast.'
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Anatomy of a Crime. It is written in a unique formula as a podcast where you hear lots of different opinions and you get to judge for yourself what you believe to be the truth. I particularly liked the comments left by listeners as they were true to life with trolls and keyboard warriors galore.
This is a well written, well researched crime thriller with relateable characters. It is a story of friendship, predjudices, secrets and lies and it will have you guessing right to the end.
Highly recommended!
August 23, 2020
I have always enjoyed books by Sibel Hodge and this one is no exception. The concept of telling the story as a selection of interviews over a podcast was genius.
In 2017 social outcasts but best friends Caris and Flora head into the forest to celebrate the summer solstice. Only Caris emerges and is accused and convicted of Flora's murder, sentenced to life in prison. What really happened that night? Is Caris the Satan loving, animal sacrificing gypsy that everyone says she is or is she another victim?
Three years later journalist Lauren looks back at the case for her podcast over a series of interviews. Just who can be believed and will the truth about that night finally be uncovered?
This was a fab book that had me changing my mind throughout about what happened. The addition of the social media comments in reaction to the podcast was also a clever idea as it's so true to life. Keyboard warriors and trolls in everything on the internet seems to be the norm.
A highly recommended 5 star read.
In 2017 social outcasts but best friends Caris and Flora head into the forest to celebrate the summer solstice. Only Caris emerges and is accused and convicted of Flora's murder, sentenced to life in prison. What really happened that night? Is Caris the Satan loving, animal sacrificing gypsy that everyone says she is or is she another victim?
Three years later journalist Lauren looks back at the case for her podcast over a series of interviews. Just who can be believed and will the truth about that night finally be uncovered?
This was a fab book that had me changing my mind throughout about what happened. The addition of the social media comments in reaction to the podcast was also a clever idea as it's so true to life. Keyboard warriors and trolls in everything on the internet seems to be the norm.
A highly recommended 5 star read.
October 17, 2020
An interesting take on a crime / murder mystery book with lots of pressing societal issues explored in an interesting and relevant way. I'm not really one for true crime podcasts myself, but in having this set out like a true crime podcast, it really added an extra dynamic to the story in a way I've not seen before. However, I think the ending of this book, while unpredictable, wasn't as good as it could have been.
I've read a lot of Hodge's books, and her discussion of witchcraft, traveller communities (try to avoid the g word), autism, trial by media and bullying to name a few was done in a way that added to the story rather than the shoehorn-ing in that we "liberal snowflakes" are always accused of. She even managed to incorporate trigger warnings as the host giving the "listeners" the warning. I wish I'd listened to this in audiobook, I think it would have been exceptional in the format.
I've read a lot of Hodge's books, and her discussion of witchcraft, traveller communities (try to avoid the g word), autism, trial by media and bullying to name a few was done in a way that added to the story rather than the shoehorn-ing in that we "liberal snowflakes" are always accused of. She even managed to incorporate trigger warnings as the host giving the "listeners" the warning. I wish I'd listened to this in audiobook, I think it would have been exceptional in the format.
September 5, 2020
Sibel Hodge has done it again!!!!! Absolutely gripping book that had my head spinning and my emotions all over the place.
The story is told as a podcast by investigative journalist, Lauren Taylor. In 2017, two eighteen year old women went into Blackleaf Forest on the evening of the summer solstice ..... Only one came out alive. Caris Kelly was sentenced to life in prison for murdering her best friend Flora Morgan, described as a ritualistic thrill kill. Lauren Taylor looks into the case and takes us on a rollercoaster of what if's. Social media and the web are fantastic tools but this book shows the darker and scary side to them.
I can't recommend this book highly enough it's fantastic and makes you think about when rumours start and how they get exaggerated beyond belief. Huge 5 stars.
The story is told as a podcast by investigative journalist, Lauren Taylor. In 2017, two eighteen year old women went into Blackleaf Forest on the evening of the summer solstice ..... Only one came out alive. Caris Kelly was sentenced to life in prison for murdering her best friend Flora Morgan, described as a ritualistic thrill kill. Lauren Taylor looks into the case and takes us on a rollercoaster of what if's. Social media and the web are fantastic tools but this book shows the darker and scary side to them.
I can't recommend this book highly enough it's fantastic and makes you think about when rumours start and how they get exaggerated beyond belief. Huge 5 stars.
September 15, 2020
I really enjoyed Anatomy of a Crime. The telling of the story in the form of a podcast felt fresh and exciting. The only other books I’ve read told in this way were Matt Wesolowski’s Six Stories series which were also in podcast form (I’d recommend those books to anyone who enjoyed Anatomy of a Crime) It works beautifully and with each episode a little more of the story unfolds. We get to hear various accounts and opinions from those involved and on the periphery of the tragedy. It really hit home to me how poisonous media, gossip and hearsay can be. How tiny elements of a story can often be twisted and used against others without full knowledge, understanding or fact. I loved how after the podcast episodes we’d see feedback from listeners, the story felt almost interactive at times. An extremely absorbing, powerful and thought provoking read.
August 23, 2020
I'm sitting trying to think of what to write that can explain how much i loved this book! So different from anything I've read before, i loved the layout, it was like i reading a television documentary, i couldn't put it down, I've went through alot of different emotions, what i really found thought provoking was how we go through life making judgements on others, without thinking of the consequences, how rumours can grow and destroy a person, that no matter what, people will believe what they want no matter what evidence is put in front of them. This is one of the best books I've read in a long time, I would love this to become a series of books. Well done Sibel Hodge you have delivered another amazing book! ❤
October 5, 2020
Accomplished crime novel written in the format of a true crime podcast. Whilst this proves to be a highly Up to date method of investigating a murder, where the podcaster has suspicions there has been a miscarriage of justice, it also manages to create a barrier between me, the reader, and the characters. As a result I felt emotionally divorced from them all, including the podcaster. I was impressed that this book raised issues which doesn’t get a lot of media coverage: misogynistic trolling, the incel. Internet community and unreported violence against women. Great plot, interesting format and smart writing. Be aware of triggers.
August 27, 2020
Wowzer, I finished this book several days ago but am only just beginning to put my thoughts into words as I've chewed over the review. The friendship between the girls is studied in depth through the eyes of witnesses, family and other interested parties. The way that the story unfolds using a podcast is a method that I've read before but this worked particularly well combined with the use of flashbacks in time. The way the story is layered up until all of the truths are revealed is well done and doesn't seem too contrived. Recommended.
October 10, 2020
Anatomy of a Crime by Sibel Hodge is brilliantly constructed. It tells the story of the investigation into a young girls incarceration after being found guilty of murdering her best friend. through a podcast from an investigative journalist. What I loved most about this was the novel angle in which the story unfolded. The use of the Podcast enabled Hodge to incorporate a variety of viewpoints and allowed the story to unfold in a dramatically different way from your usual crime fiction novel. 5 ***** from me.
August 28, 2020
Told from the viewpoint of a podcast, Anatomy of a Crime is a series of interviews that tell the story of Caris Kelly and her supposed murder of her best friend.
What a great format. It felt like I was truly listening to the podcast. The creator of the podcast finds information that the police couldn’t - thereby solving the crime.
A truly enjoyable read that will have you needing to constantly read “just a bit more” and unable to put the book down until you find out the truth.
What a great format. It felt like I was truly listening to the podcast. The creator of the podcast finds information that the police couldn’t - thereby solving the crime.
A truly enjoyable read that will have you needing to constantly read “just a bit more” and unable to put the book down until you find out the truth.
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