We Keep the Dead Close: A Murder at Harvard and a Half Century of Silence

We Keep the Dead Close is a non-fiction book by Becky Cooper that was shortlisted for the Crime Writers Association ALCS Gold Dagger for Non-Fiction. It is about the murder of Jane Britton in 1969 and the investigation that followed.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 512 pages
Publication date: 14 September 2021
Publisher: Cornerstone

Brilliant and extraordinary, Philippe Sands' Astonishing Detective Cooper is a true testament to the power of storytelling. Alex Marzano-Lesnevich, author of The Fact of a Body, praises Cooper as "one hell of a detective," highlighting his exceptional skills and unwavering determination. Sands' captivating narrative takes readers on a thrilling journey through the dark alleys of London, as Detective Cooper unravels a complex mystery that has haunted the city for decades.

Seductive and haunting, Ariel Levy's The Rules Do Not Apply is a masterpiece of literary fiction. Levy's writing is characterized by its raw honesty and emotional depth, as she delves into the lives of two young women navigating the treacherous waters of love and ambition in 1960s New York City. The Rules Do Not Apply is a haunting portrayal of the human condition, offering a glimpse into the complexities of relationships and the sacrifices we make in pursuit of our dreams.

In 1969, Jane Britton, an ambitious graduate student at Harvard, was found bludgeoned to death in her apartment. A whisper network kept Jane's story alive, a rumor of an affair with a professor that ended in tragedy when Britton threatened to expose him. Forty years later, curious undergrad Becky Cooper first heard the story and felt compelled to find out more. We Keep the Dead Close is an account of her complex and fascinating investigation spanning a decade.

Cooper's journey is a testament to the human spirit's resilience and determination. She immerses herself in the case, conducting interviews, sifting through archives, and piecing together the fragments of Jane's life. Through her tireless efforts, Cooper uncovers a web of lies, secrets, and betrayals that have haunted the city for decades. The story is filled with memorable characters, including Detective Cooper's partner, Jack, and Jane's former lover, David.

Sands' writing is masterful, with his vivid descriptions and intricate plotlines keeping readers engaged from start to finish. The book is a tribute to the power of storytelling and the enduring impact of history on our lives. The Rules Do Not Apply is a must-read for anyone who loves literary fiction and is interested in exploring the complexities of human relationships.

In conclusion, Philippe Sands' Astonishing Detective Cooper, Alex Marzano-Lesnevich's The Fact of a Body, and Ariel Levy's The Rules Do Not Apply are three extraordinary works of fiction that have left a lasting impact on readers. Sands' captivating narrative, Levy's raw honesty, and Cooper's determination to uncover the truth make these books must-reads for anyone who loves literary fiction and is interested in exploring the complexities of human relationships.

Weight: 406g
Dimension: 129 x 197 x 36 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781786090553