"The Natural History of Crime" by Patricia Wiltshire offers an insightful exploration into the role of forensic ecology in criminal investigations. Drawing from her extensive experience, Wiltshire illustrates how natural elements—such as pollen, soil, and plant matter—can provide critical evidence in solving crimes. I appreciate the unique perspective Wiltshire brings to forensic science, highlighting the intricate connections between nature and crime scenes.

Stopped reading this at 42% to give myself a bit of a break since I was so bored and decided to come back later to see if it was a me thing. Never felt the desire to pick it back up again. At this point I don’t remember a single thing I read. I’m sure this has an audience of people that like it but I’m apparently not one of these people. I would prefer to not give this a star rating since I didn’t finish it but since I’m wuote literally being forced to it gets a 2.

DNF at 25% in

There was a lot that interested me about this one, but it didn't end up holding my attention. I felt like the author was rambling a lot of the time and I couldn't really follow along or would lose focus. The narrator also had a very soothing voice, which didn't really help with keeping me focused on what was actually being said... I'm sad I didn't like this one!

Forensic Ecology is not something I had ever considered, and this book was a fascinating window into the field. It offers insightful and educational insight into this little-known area of investigation, and I would recommend it to any true crime fan.

I think Wiltshire has a fascinating job and many years of experience to guide the reader through the process and types of cases that she's handled over the years. However, way the story was presented and written was not very appealing as the author's narrative voice can come across as a bit off-putting. The cases and way she goes about discovering evidence, collecting it, studying it and using it to get convictions were very interesting so the book did keep me engaged throughout it.

The audiobook was well done. I did enjoy the narrator's voice and performance. It was easy to understand and clear to listen to. I'd listen from this narrator again.

DNF at 30%

I think that the author would have benefitted from working more closely with an editor. Her chapters do not seem to follow a cohesive narrative and her tone is rather schoolmarm-ish. She begins Chapter Three by complaining about the current generation's obsession with "stress" and how such a thing has never bothered her. Despite knowing that this will alienate many readers, she includes it anyway. A wise editor could have guided her in making better choices for this book.

This was a DNF for me. This book sounded amazing but the execution was poor. The author is very self congratulatory and full of herself, every few sentences she had to brag about how unique and special she was, which got old quickly. She went on many random tangents throughout this book that made no sense, and made the story confusing. I felt very uncomfortable about the way she spoke about victims, it was very detached yet gave way too much detail about some of the cases. This was not for me.

I thought the information was interesting but the tangents/asides were strange and the way the author seemed to think about everyone else seemed a little callous and superior in a really off-putting way. Also, I thought her take on mental health in the UK was... interesting...

Not for me. I requested this to read in October, as I always like to stock up on "spooky stories" to get me in the Halloween mood. This wasn't quite what I expected, and not my favorite.

It was an interesting and very informative non fiction audiobook. the narration by the author herself was greatly appreciated, as the audience, we could feel her feelings through the cases she walked us through. It felt very humane.

I have mixed feelings about this book. I requested this book due to the nature of the book and the subject matter. Solving the mystery, handing out justice is always great in any book, but getting a detailed behind the scenes look into the mind of someone who is an expert in their field sounded amazing. I am glad that I took my time reading and enjoying it, but I also felt like it drug on at points. It is rich in detail, but when is enough enough?

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC in audiobook format.

The Natural History of Crime: Case Studies in Death and the Clues Nature Leaves Behind by Patricia Wiltshire, narrated by Charlotte Strevens, is a fascinating and insightful exploration into the world of forensic ecology. This audiobook takes listeners on a journey through some of the most intriguing and high-profile criminal cases, revealing how nature itself can provide crucial evidence in solving crimes.

Wiltshire, a renowned forensic ecologist, shares her extensive experience and expertise in examining the natural clues left behind at crime scenes. Her narrative is both educational and gripping, offering a unique perspective on how plants, soil, and other natural elements can be pivotal in criminal investigations. The book delves into various case studies, including infamous cases like the Soham murders, showcasing how forensic ecology has been instrumental in uncovering the truth.

Charlotte Strevens’ narration adds a compelling layer to the audiobook. Her clear and engaging voice brings Wiltshire’s detailed descriptions and scientific explanations to life, making complex concepts accessible and interesting. Strevens’ ability to convey the tension and drama of each case enhances the listening experience, keeping the audience hooked from start to finish.

This audiobook excels with its blend of scientific rigor and storytelling. Wiltshire’s passion for her work shines through, as she explains the meticulous process of collecting and analyzing ecological evidence. Her ability to translate scientific data into compelling narratives makes this audiobook not only informative and highly engaging.

The book also highlights the broader implications of forensic ecology in the justice system. Wiltshire discusses the challenges and triumphs of her career, providing a behind-the-scenes look at the intersection of science and law. This perspective adds depth to the narrative, illustrating the critical role that forensic ecology plays in modern criminal investigations.

The Natural History of Crime is a must-listen for true crime enthusiasts and anyone interested in the intersection of nature and forensic science. Patricia Wiltshire’s expertise, combined with Charlotte Strevens’ captivating narration, makes this audiobook a standout in the true crime genre.

I thought it be more about crime in the USA but it wasn’t. It really wasn’t what I personally liked.

<i>The Natural History of Crime: Case studies in death and the clues nature leaves behind</i> is a memoir by Patricia Wiltshire of her involvement as a forensic ecologist in several major investigations in the United Kingdom.

I really enjoyed learning about how Wiltshire performs her job and is able to identify signs to help the police. Charlotte Strevens did an excellent job narrating the audiobook. This book is science-heavy, so I would recommend it to those interested in the science behind her work, rather than just those interested in true crime.

Many thanks to NetGalley for providing me with an audio ARC of this book.

2.5 rounded up simply for the interesting facts. This book was difficult and it probably didn't need to be. There were so many fascinating facts and cases that were recounted. Patricia Wiltshire truly has in incredible knowledge of forensic ecology - I marveled at most of what she was describing. When we get these nuggets of fascinating details, this book is really very interesting. My mind is still blown away by some of the facts that she just drops in when setting up her retellings of crime scenes - things like ancient peoples rabbit husbandry practices, etc. Absolutely the content I want from a non-fiction book written by someone with a particular specialty. Also I really loved the narrator. Charlotte Strevens has a lovely voice and I probably listened to more of the book than I really wanted to just because of her. What I did not enjoy was the author's unsolicited advice, comments on the younger generations, and feelings on the weird beefs she had with other specialists. I really wanted to say "just the facts ma'am" - which, I feel like she should know from being an experienced expert witness. This book made me go from fascinated to repulsed so quickly. I would have happily taken a lecture from her based on the facts from this book. But with all of her personal baggage exposed I am hesitant to even pick up her other book. I really wanted to like this book. Thank you NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review.

This was an arduous read, had to DNF this book, my first one in a long time. It's probably just a personal preference/ my own expectations thing but it certainly wasn't what I expected from the title and the description.

This just wasn't for me. I had to DNF. I was bored listening and couldn't get over the extra comments she would make about young people.

I’m perplexed by this book. It was interesting but also didn’t hold my attention well. I got this because it sounded interesting and there were parts that were interesting, but others drug on.

I never need it to know this much about plants..just saying.
The narrator was difficult to understand in some cases because if the thick accent but I generally suits the author’s voice.

This book is an entertaining look at a topic that could be very dry. Wiltshire is brilliant and can spin a tale! Worth a listen.