Book Review: Not a Very Good Murderer by Ronan Farrow
Sometimes, the allure of high society can feel like a tantalizing puzzle waiting to be solved. This was precisely the intrigue that drew me to Ronan Farrow’s Not a Very Good Murderer. I’ve always appreciated authors who peel back the layers of celebrity culture and uncover the messy truths beneath—Farrow, a Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative reporter, certainly fits the bill. As I dove into this wild audio documentary, I found myself both captivated and perplexed by the life of Celia "CeCe" Doane, a former Miss Arizona turned enigmatic socialite.
At first, Not a Very Good Murderer feels like a thrilling ride through a world drenched in glamour and hidden perils. We meet CeCe in the 1970s, a striking figure who effortlessly caught the eye of many suitors. Yet, the same hands that waved goodbye to ex-husbands also seemed to open up a Pandora’s box of attempted murder plots. The idea that a beauty queen could be a "person of interest" in the high-stakes drama of missing husbands is both absurd and chilling, and Farrow does a remarkable job weaving this thread through the narrative.
The documentary is structured around interviews that give a window into CeCe’s tumultuous life—a blend of true crime thriller and character study. This interplay kept me guessing: Could CeCe really be a cold-hearted conspirator, or is she merely a tragic figure shaped by her past? I found myself oscillating between skepticism and sympathy, especially when she mentioned her own fractured family life, including accusations of child abuse and alcoholism. It’s complex, uncomfortable stuff, and Farrow doesn’t shy away from highlighting these messy layers.
As an audio experience, I appreciated the pacing and the vibrant interviews that punctuated the story. Farrow’s narration strikes a balance between engaging and chilling, providing context while allowing CeCe’s words to resonate. One standout moment for me was when CeCe recounted her experience with home invasion—her hesitant, almost baffled memories. It’s as if she’s inviting you into her psychological labyrinth while leaving hints that you might not want to follow.
There were moments when I laughed incredulously, especially during the probing discussions about the lifestyles of the rich and famous. The mention of "Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous" by Good Charlotte fittingly captures the essence of the tale—riches enveloped in a sense of doom and unease. The book entertains while raising significant questions about truth and deception, particularly in a world propelled by public perception.
Overall, Not a Very Good Murderer is a fast-paced listen, perfect for those who enjoy tales of the absurdities behind celebrity façades. While it might not delve deeply into the grittier intricacies of the human psyche like some heavier memoirs, it provides a fascinating snapshot of what happens when fame, fortune, and alleged malice intersect.
If you’re looking for a quick listen while doing chores or just want to immerse yourself in the bizarre world of the wealthy, this audiobook is a delightful choice. You might walk away a bit more curious and certainly more entertained about the darker side of glamorous lives—and perhaps more inquisitive about the truths we all choose to keep buried. I’m grateful for the experience; in the chaos of our lives, sometimes a little bit of celebrity scandal is exactly what we need. 🌻✨
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