The Black Dahlia murder is an open case that happened in 1947 Los Angeles. It's a horrifying case at baseline, and when you add in the police corruption, the beginnings of forensic profiling, the bold role of journalism, and the sexist and fragile post-war social climate, things get really interesting. In what I have come to appreciate is Piu Eatwell's signature style, this book slowly unravels the details of the case so a reader can feel they are along for the ride of investigation, speculation, and discovery. I love the way the author interrogates source material directly to poke at biases, gaps, and conflicting data. She seamlessly melds that approach with a narrative writing style so that there is a story element with setting details and characterization coexisting beautifully alongside fact-finding analysis and reflection. I also love how each new shocking turn of events, each revelation arrives with proper ominous pomp to keep readers on the edge of their seats. Eatwell chooses the order and manner of how facts are shared for maximum suspense and impact. As I was unfamiliar with this case, I was very easy to shock and awe, which was part of the fun. Finally, I appreciated the latter part of the book where Eatwell gives insight into her research process and her own uncovering of secrets, site visits, and consultations with modern experts in their fields.

My only complaint is that there is more repititon of known facts in this one than I noticed in Eatwell's more recent publication. In a few instances, reminders of connections and case details were helpful to me, but I was more likely to be frustrated and eager for something new. This was especially so in the final 2 hours of listening to this audiobook because the author had already laid out her conclusions but circled back through all the facts again without any new insight that would make the review meaningful.

Overall, this is an excellent historical true crime piece. I'd read anything Eatwell writes because I love her thorough approach and engaging writing style that drew me in and kept me interested and thrilled throughout. I also think she has a knack for choosing complicated cases in rich contexts, which results in a multilayered, fascinating read.