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Story of a Murder by Hallie Rubenhold offers a gripping and nuanced exploration of the lives of three women at the heart of one of history's most notorious criminal cases. Set against a backdrop of rapid societal change, the story delves into the lives of Charlotte, Crippen's first wife, whose mysterious death set off a chain of events; Ethel, his mistress, who feigned ignorance while fleeing with Crippen disguised as his son; and Belle, the woman whose life was tragically taken by Crippen.

For decades, the story of the Crippen murder was framed to cast doubt on his guilt and to blame his wife for her own demise. Shockingly, Crippen’s young mistress, Ethel, was often portrayed as an innocent bystander in the crime. However, new evidence uncovered by Rubenhold challenges these longstanding assumptions and reshapes the narrative, offering a radical rethinking of the case. This book reveals the untold stories of Charlotte, Belle, and Ethel, showing that they were far more than the passive victims history has long depicted. Through this reexamination, Story of a Murder also critiques Edwardian views on women, class, and society, reshaping our understanding of this infamous event.

This is an exceptionally well researched and well written book. It really turns this story around and presents the story of the women rather than the story of the murderer. It delves into the women's lives to provide context to their stories rather than relying on the narrative of a murderer. Really well done non-fiction that I gave 4.25 stars.

Thank you to Net Galley and Penguin Group Dutton for my advance reader copy. This book comes out on March 25, 2025.