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I'll Be Gone in the Dark

The #1 New York Times Bestseller
4.12 goodreads logo

Ratings/reviews counts are updated frequently.

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( 259,459 ratings, 21,147 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
I'll Be Gone in the Dark by Michelle McNamara is a gripping true crime book that delves into the hunt for the Golden State Killer. McNamara's meticulous research and compelling narrative weave together the chilling stories of the killer's numerous crimes, the impact on the victims, and the tireless efforts to bring him to justice.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might like this book if you're fascinated by true crime and enjoy meticulously researched narratives. It provides a gripping look into the investigation of the Golden State Killer, blending personal insight and detailed detective work. This book may appeal to you if you're interested in how ordinary people can contribute to solving complex, cold cases.

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Updated edition: With introduction by Gillian Flynn, a compelling true crime account of the Golden State Killer - the elusive serial rapist turned murderer who terrorised California for over a decade - from Michelle McNamara, the gifted journalist who died tragically while investigating the case.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

The gripping narrative of I'll Be Gone in the Dark by Michelle McNamara weaves a masterful true crime account of the Golden State Killer, a notorious and elusive serial rapist turned murderer who terrorised California for over a decade. This #1 New York Times Bestseller is a chilling exploration into one of America’s most frightening unsolved cases and the tenacious efforts of a journalist driven to uncover the truth.

"You'll be silent forever, and I'll be gone in the dark."

For more than a decade, a mysterious and violent predator committed fifty sexual assaults in Northern California before moving south, where he perpetrated ten sadistic murders. The Golden State Killer then vanished, eluding multiple police forces and some of the best detectives in the area. Decades would pass with the perpetrator remaining a terrifying enigma, continuing to haunt the minds of victims and law enforcement alike.

Enter Michelle McNamara, a gifted true crime journalist who dedicated her life to tracking down the Golden State Killer. As the creator of the popular website TrueCrimeDiary.com, Michelle immersed herself in the case, thoroughly poring over police reports, conducting interviews with victims, and embedding herself in the online communities that shared her obsession.

I’ll Be Gone in the Dark captures the essence of McNamara’s meticulous investigation. At the time of her unexpected passing, she was in the midst of writing what would become her masterpiece. This compelling account is not only a riveting exploration of the Golden State Killer's heinous crimes but also a testament to Michelle's unwavering dedication and passion for justice.

The book is enriched by contributions from Gillian Flynn, who provides a poignant introduction, and Patton Oswalt, Michelle's husband, who pens a heartfelt afterword. The project was lovingly completed by Michelle’s lead researcher and a close colleague, ensuring that her pioneering work reached the audience it deserved.

I’ll Be Gone in the Dark offers an atmospheric snapshot of a significant moment in American history, painting a vivid picture of fear, obsession, and the relentless pursuit of truth. The book stands as a true crime classic, destined to fascinate readers and possibly lead to the unmasking of the Golden State Killer.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

I'll Be Gone in the Dark by Michelle McNamara is highly praised for its meticulous research and gripping storytelling. Reviewers commend McNamara's ability to weave her personal obsession and emotional journey into the narrative, making it more than just a true crime story. The book's posthumous editing and publication are also acknowledged, highlighting the collaborative effort to bring McNamara's compelling work to readers.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780571345151

Publisher: Faber & Faber

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 28 February 2019

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Faber & Faber

Edition: Main

Contributors:

  • Introduction by Gillian Flynn
  • Afterword by Patton Oswalt

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 22.0mm

Width: 129.0mm

Height: 198.0mm

Weight: 332g

Pages: 368

About the Author

Michelle McNamara (1970-2016) was the author of the website TrueCrimeDiary.com. She earned an MFA in fiction writing from the University of Minnesota and had sold television pilots to ABC and Fox, and a screenplay to Paramount. She also worked as a consultant for Dateline NBC. She lived in Los Angeles and is survived by her husband, Patton Oswalt, and their daughter, Alice.

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