If you like your true crime to be historical, you're in for a treat.

I knew exactly nothing about this case when I started the book. The narration was comprehensive and victim-focused - the author took great care to paint everyone affected as dignified human beings, a status not afforded to them at the time. I listened to this book but also leafed through my paperback copy, which had dozens of historical photos. I was impressed by how much the author consulted with the Osage when telling the story. All the little details are well worth reading and learning about.

I did however struggle to stay engaged - this is largely due to personal preferences.

The book was divided in 3 parts:

- part 1 introduced and humanized the victims, and gave an overview of the local politics and culture at the time. The deaths are presented.
- part 2 focused on the investigation led by the newly-formed FBI and the arrest of the bad guys
- part 3 rounded off with the modern fallout on the community as well as loose threads from the first investigation

I'm not interested in crime motivated by money, fraud, or undercover operations. I am however interested in the people affected by crime, including the loved ones left behind, and the cultural legacy of crime. As such, while parts 1 and 3 were fascinating, but I lost interest during part 2. As such, the "crime" part was the least interesting part of this book (and it was also good, but outside of my areas of interest).

Recommended if you enjoy more "classic" true crime (think In Cold Blood, Devil In the White City), have an interest in the history of America's indigenous peoples (circa 1920s), and are ok with a slow paced book that walks you through all the nit and grit.

3.5 stars rounded up