This is quite the departure from the Laurie Notaro that I know and adore. If you're looking for Notaro wit, this isn't it. If you're looking for an interesting fictional account of what might have happened with a real-life murderess, you'll hit the jackpot here.

I wasn't familiar with the story and I'm not sure how much fact is embedded in the narrative, but this was impressive and, of course, well written. Notaro paints the life of a very flawed woman and what could have led to her crimes.

I did find it slowing a bit near the middle, bogged down in detail. But, overall, this was superb.

Although it didn't turn out to be the murder mystery I expected, it's no less interesting. It is raw and emotional, the type of story that will tug at your heartstrings and not always in a good way. Only pick up if you are ready to dive into the twisted mind of a murderess. The story is dark and disturbing, especially at the start. Because it is based on a true story, you might not find the resolution you want but the ending will leave a lasting impression on you. And I thought it wrapped up everything quite well. Overall, it's a good read.

The audiobook is well-narrated, the audio quality is excellent and flows smoothly from start to finish. Each character is distinct and easily recognizable, making it effortless to follow the plot and understand the dynamics between them. One of the standout aspects of this audiobook is how the narrator skillfully captures the personalities of the characters, giving them depth. Of course, writing is great in that aspect, too. Especially, the emotional complexity of the main character makes the whole experience engaging.

If you are a fan of true crime and/or historical romance and appreciate a well-paced thrilling story, I highly recommend the audiobook of The Murderess by Laurie Notaro; narrated by Hillary Huber.

P.S. I'd like to thank the publisher for the complimentary audio copy. I thoroughly enjoyed listening to this thrilling story.

5 ☆
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If annotating an entire book were a person, it would be this book! This entire book could have been annotated! It was that good. It started with a bang and ended with an even bigger bang! I highly recommend this book. Ruth was literally delusional and crazy, but I enjoyed her the entire time! I wonder, does that make me delusional and crazy as well? Oh well, it’s October 1931. When Winnie Ruth Judd arrives at the Los Angeles train station from Phoenix, her shipping trunks catch the attention of a suspicious porter. By the time they’re pried open, revealing the dismembered bodies of two women inside, Ruth has disappeared into the crowd. Now, let the story begin.
The audiobook was good; the narrator did a good job telling the story. She was easy to listen to and understand.
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Thank you, Netgalley, Brilliance Publishing for the audiobook, and Little A for the Ebook in exchange for my honest review.