By Emily Webb
Publisher/Year: Big Sky Publishing/2022
Publisher’s blurb
Chilling cases of murder and crime that have happened in the quiet streets of Australia’s suburbs
Emily Webb, co-host of the popular Australian True Crime podcast details chilling cases of murder and crime that have happened in the quiet streets of Australia’s suburbs. Featuring contemporary cases as well as some shocking historical murders you’ve probably never heard of, Suburban True Crime proves you shouldn’t say “it could never happen here”
This collection of cases that are hard to believe, except they really happened – and all in the streets and homes of the Australia many of us know and live. The suburbs.
These cases range from recent murders to some historical stories that will shock and surprise. Some of the cases you’ll know and there’s crimes you’ve never heard of.
Cases will shock and surprise you including the still unsolved mistaken identity murder of Melbourne mother Jane Thurgood-Dove and the horrifying story of a man who killed in Australia and then was released from prison, only to kill again in the United States.
There are also some historical crimes that shocked the community at the time but have now faded into obscurity, including cases of child murder in the 1970s. Think nothing ever happens where you live? Think again.
Reviewer: Sarah Jackson
Interesting collection of true crime
Suburban True Crime: Australian Cases you’ll never forget and some you’ve never heard of by Emily Webb is true to its name. This collection of true crime contains some well-known incidents, like the case of the “Brownout Strangler”, and a surprisingly large number of serious and horrific incidents. Webb has done her part to ensure that the victims and survivors of these terrible crimes are not forgotten. Like all true crimes, this is not a read for the faint of heart. These incidents range from the deeply sad, to the completely shocking.
The 35 cases presented cover a selection of ‘suburban’ crimes which occurred over the last century. Crimes range from random acts of violence, to calculated murders to domestic violence incidents. Most are from Victoria and New South Wales, with the occasional additions from South Australia and Western Australia.
Webb’s journalistic skills are evident in her presentation of the facts. All of the cases are recorded in short chapters, making the book an easy read for those with limited time. The accounts are well researched, with Webb often referencing media releases, newspaper articles, police and court reports, and her own interviews and research with survivors and law enforcement.
Webb has written two other true crime offerings – Angels of Death: Doctors and Nurses who Kill and Suburban Nightmare. With the wealth of available cases (sadly) there is scope for future sequels. Webb is also the co-host of the Australian True Crime podcast for those keen to find out more about her work.
https://www.simonandschuster.com.au/books/Suburban-True-Crime/Emily-Webb/9781922615787