Book Review: A Fever in the Heart

From the publisher: A Fever in the Heart explores an explosive triangle that led to obsession and murder in a small town in the northwest of America. Ann Rule reveals the story of an alluring wife and the two men desperate for her love—a story with a bizarre and deadly twist that no one could have suspected.

I went into A Fever in the Heart not knowing anything about the case of Morris Blankenbaker, and I’m glad about that. Every time I thought I had this case figured out, something new and unexpected would happen. Ann Rule weaves an enthralling (true) tale and keeps the pages turning. I was infuriated, frustrated, and saddened by how this all played out. There is justice, yes, but at the same time… not enough of it.

A Fever in the Heart is a true crime novel that focuses more on the people surrounding the crime than the actual crime. By the end of the book, you feel as though you truly know every player; perhaps that affected me the most. There are more than two victims in this case, and honestly, nobody wins at the end of it all.

If you are a fan of Ann Rule, you’ve probably already read this one. If not, I highly recommend it, especially if you enjoy true crime that gives the people involved their due rather than focusing solely on the gruesome details of the crime.

Read More (Be mindful that many of these links contain information regarding the case, including the victims, perpetrators, and outcome):

The Cinemaholic
Ellensburg Daily Record – 12.26.1975
Ellensburg Daily Record – 05.20.1976
Los Angeles Times – 01.16.1992
The Spokesman Review – 08.17.1976
State of Washington Court of Appeals – 08.22.1978