One Down, One Missing

by Joe D'Alo, David Astle

Genres: True Crime

400 pages, Paperback

Published January 1, 2004

Reviews

[Teagan Prentice · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book depicts the lead up to and the events following the murders of Sergeant Gary Silk and Senior Constable Rodney Miller that occurred on 16 August 1998. The piece was interesting, descriptive and enthralling. I found it easy to read and I became engrossed in the story. The book has an excellent balance of humour and seriousness, as well as explanations of terms that may not be immediately understood to those who are unfamiliar with the policing world.
It was very easy for me to become invested in the detectives investigating this case as well as others associated with the victims. Each chapter left me wanting more. I read it quickly as I found I couldn't put it down. I loved that there was also some follow up (current at the time of printing) on the officers involved and what they moved onto following this - whether due to the affects of the incident or other choices. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who will listen to me rant about it.

[Mel Woodall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Devastating. Shocking. Unbelievable. These are all words I can use to describe this book. As I'm writing my first murder mystery and am gaining snippets of information on how that world works, a friend suggested I read this book. 'It might help you understand how it all comes together,' were his words. It has done that and so much more. It has given me a new found appreciation for the often tedious work completed by police officers involved in an investigation of this size. It has helped me understand how meticulous they need to be to ensure the right people can be arrested. It has shown me that the most minuscule piece of evidence can be crucial. Full of so many twists and turns, this book was a captivating, yet heart-breaking read, that will stay with me for a long time.

[Tony · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was enthralling and I couldn't put t down, It almost read like a faction book in parts and occasionally I had to remind myself it was a true story. It gives a real insight to policing and also the mind set of the criminal. I was really cheering for the 'cops' and was elated with the arrest and court conviction. The only aspect I didn't find enjoyable and even a little frustrating was the detail provided in investigating the red herrings. I found myself skimming through these parts to get back to the real suspects. A great read.

[Dave · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great true crime read from a police perspective. I never realised there were so many violent lowlifes walking the streets of Melbourne. The zeal of the police in tracking down the killer(s?) is made all the more tragic in light of the news three months ago that Jason Roberts was freed from prison after an IBAC investigation found police malfeasance in the investigation.

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant real life CSI book. Couldn't put it down.

[Darren · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fantastic read from an eyewitness account.I shudder to think what the police force would be like without people like Joe.I have learned that he has retired from the force due to pressure from within,and,that is a shameful thing to happen in my opinion as he only wanted to do the right thing and inform the public about one of the most terrible tragedies that has befallen our police force.I back you Joe as what i read was one of the most compelling and informative reads i have had in a long time as it pulls no punches and makes yoou feel proud in the end.Good on you joe!!