The Lazarus Files: A Cold Case Investigation

by Matthew McGough
The Lazarus Files: A Cold Case Investigation cover
Good Books rating 4.0
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  • ID: 2239
  • Added: 2025-10-13
  • Updated: 2025-10-13
  • Reviews: 4
Reviews
Book Riot · 2026-02-16
great 4.00

The book is a deeply-reported account of a cold case murder, with a shocking suspect revealed through DNA evidence.

This reviewer highlighted the book as a deeply-reported and riveting account of a cold case murder in Los Angeles. They noted that the case remained unsolved until DNA evidence implicated a shocking suspect, a female detective. The reviewer found the book to be compelling and well-researched, providing a detailed and engaging narrative of the investigation. The shocking revelation of the suspect added an extra layer of intrigue to the story.

Quick quotes

    A deeply-reported, riveting account of a cold case murder in Los Angeles, unsolved until DNA evidence implicated a shocking suspect – a female detective.

    A deeply-reported, riveting account of a cold case murder in Los Angeles, unsolved until DNA evidence implicated a shocking suspect.

    With a whole lot of editing, this could have a been a truly great true crime book.

Goodreads · 2026-02-03
good 3.50

The writing is crisp and compelling, with facts presented in an orderly manner. However, the book is criticized for being overly long and repetitive.

The reviewer found the writing style to be quite strong, with a clear and compelling narrative that keeps the reader engaged. They particularly appreciated how the facts were laid out in a logical and orderly fashion, making the complex case easier to follow. However, they also noted that the book could have benefited from some editing to trim down the length and reduce repetition. The case itself is intriguing, and the reviewer feels that with a bit more conciseness, the book could have been even more impactful.

Quick quotes

    The writing there there is crisp and compelling, and the facts are laid out with an innate order.

    Holy buckets, this is a LONG book. The authors went overboard in background information, even repeating certain things several times.

    The book is a bit repetitive at times, but overall is quite well done.

Amazon · 2026-02-03
great 4.50

The book is praised for its straightforward and factual approach to true crime, avoiding invented dialogue or imagined thoughts. It is considered a top-tier example of true crime literature.

This reviewer really appreciates the no-nonsense approach to true crime storytelling. They highlight that the book sticks to the facts and doesn't get bogged down in speculative dialogue or imagined emotions, which can sometimes distract from the core story in other true crime books. The case itself is gripping, and the way it's presented keeps the reader engaged throughout. The reviewer also notes that it's a refreshing change to see a true crime book that respects the complexity of the case and the people involved, without resorting to sensationalism.

Quick quotes

    This is the best kind of true crime book, usually by a journalist with no invented dialogue or imagined thoughts or feelings etc, but a straightforward telling.

    It's a fascinating case and the author does a great job of laying out the facts.

    The book is a top-tier example of true crime literature.

Hardcover · Sarca · 2024-07-03
excellent 4.00

The book provides a deeply-reported and riveting account of a cold case murder in Los Angeles, with a shocking twist involving a female detective.

This reviewer was thoroughly captivated by the detailed reporting and the riveting narrative of the cold case murder. They found the twist involving a female detective to be particularly shocking and compelling. The reviewer also appreciated the depth of the investigation and the way the author pieced together the evidence to solve the case. The book is praised for its engaging storytelling and the way it keeps the reader on the edge of their seat.

Quick quotes

    A deeply-reported, riveting account of a cold case murder in Los Angeles, unsolved until DNA evidence implicated a shocking suspect – a female detective.

    The book is a fascinating read from start to finish.

    The author does an excellent job of building suspense and keeping the reader engaged.

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