I just finished reading this book and WOW, it was a fantastic read into what was once dubbed "the murder of the century." A grisly find of a dismembered body on the morning of 1897 in NYC begins one of the most sensational and puzzling crimes of the times. What follows is the detailed description and events surrounding the mysterious death of William Guldensuppe. The victims lover, and then boyfriend become suspects is this sensational love triangle and every moment seems to be captured by the top newspapers of the day.

It was so neat to catch a glimpse of what life was like in NYC in 1897. This was a time before fingerprinting and forensics and careful documentation by police investigators. I was shaking my head at the way the crime scenes and investigation were conducted. So interesting! Plus, a HUGE part of this book is the rivalry between two newspapers, the Journal owned by Hearst and the World, by Pulitzer. It was amazing to read that so much of the initial investigation was conducted by these newspapers for the sole purpose of outdoing one another. The author perfectly captures how the papers relished their role in the unfolding drama. The author gives us an account of the growth of lurid news and the public’s fascination for it.

I was so addicted to this book. I loved it!! The author really did his research for the book but it does not come off dry and too fact ridden. This is a non-fiction book that is both fascinating and so well written it was a joy to read. If you are ready for a real life tale that includes murder, dismemberment, adultery, contract killing, false identity, grave robbing, gambling, illicit abortion and medical malpractice, this is the book that has it all, you will not be disappointed.

It's compelling history that's also great page-turning entertainment. Five stars and a definite must read!! I won this as part of the goodreads giveaway program.