The Fatal Passion of Alma Rattenbury

The Fatal Passion of Alma Rattenbury cover
Good Books rating 4.33
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Technical
  • ID: 2828
  • Added: 2025-10-16
  • Updated: 2025-10-16
  • ISBN: 9781471132735
  • Publisher: Simon and Schuster
  • Published: 2019-07-11
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

The Fatal Passion of Alma Rattenbury delves into the sensational 1935 murder case that captivated the British public. Alma Rattenbury, a glamorous and unconventional woman, became the center of a tabloid frenzy involving adultery, alcoholism, and a shocking crime. Sean O'Connor's meticulous research and new evidence bring to life the epic story, from Alma's humble beginnings in South London to the tragic climax in Bournemouth. This book is not just a murder story but a heartbreaking romance and a poignant biography of a woman trapped between the freedoms of two world wars and the constraints of peacetime society./n/nThe narrative is rich with period detail, offering a startlingly prescient commentary on public opinion, media sensationalism, and the relentless machinery of the legal system. Alma Rattenbury's story is a powerful exploration of a woman who dared to challenge the status quo, only to be crucified by public opinion. With its breathtaking opening and shocking conclusion, this true story is as enthralling and provocative as any work of fiction.

Reviews
Amazon.co.uk · 2025-10-16
Interesting 4.00

A very interesting and thoroughly researched book that provides insight into Alma's character.

The reviewer found this book to be both interesting and well-researched, particularly appreciating the depth it brings to Alma's character. It's a great choice for readers who enjoy historical true crime and character-driven stories.


Quick quotes

    A very interesting and thoroughly researched book.

    It does provide some insight into Alma's character, which is of particular interest to me.

    Previous books ...

The Times · 2019-07-14
Scandalous 4.50

A juicy bit of true crime with a salacious adultery story on the side.

The reviewer describes the book as a scandalous tale of sex and death that captivated 1930s Britain. The story of Alma Rattenbury and her chauffeur is presented as a sensational true crime story that still holds relevance today.


Quick quotes

    It was a juicy bit of true crime for the emerging tabloid press, with a salacious adultery story on the side.

    Alma, who confessed to the murder ...

    A tale of sex and death that scandalised 1930s Britain.

Goodreads · 2019-07-11
Gripping 4.50

A gripping murder story and a heartbreaking romance that also serves as a biography of a modern woman.

This book is a compelling blend of true crime and romance, offering a deep dive into the life of Alma Rattenbury. The reviewer highlights how the book captures her vitality and modernity, making it a fascinating read for those interested in historical true crime stories.


Quick quotes

    A gripping murder story and a heartbreaking romance as well as the biography of a vital, modern woman.

    The story of the love affair of the 42-year-old Alma Rattenbury and her 18-year-old chauffeur George Stoner, the fatal consequence of which was the bludgeoning ...

    A startlingly prescient parable for our times, it is the story of a protagonist who dared to challenge the status quo only to be crucified by public opinion, ...