By Erica Wiggins
Content warnings: murder, suicide
Deadly Triangle tells the story of the 1935 murder of world-famous architect Francis Mawson Rattenbury and the arrest and trial of his younger wife Alma and George Percy Stoner, the family’s chauffeur and her lover. Written by Susan Goldenberg, an award-winning author who writes for magazines and newspapers and currently resides in Toronto. This story called to me with its Canadian link as the victim designed the iconic Parliament Building and Empress Hotel in Victoria, British Columbia. I love a well-laid-out and researched true crime story and this did not disappoint. The cover of this book draws you, and once I read the synopsis, I was hooked.
The story begins with a quick snippet of the murder and then we move back in time to be introduced to our main characters—first Francis, then Alma—then how they connected and moved to their beautiful home. Finally, our last main character, George, the new chauffeur, enters the story. Goldenberg has a way of writing that makes you feel like you are reading a fictional story. She immerses you in the story. You enter the daily lives of the characters. I was enthralled by the story of multiple marriages, divorces, scandals, and adultery that was present in the early 1900s. It was a reminder that people from that era and present day still have the same issues.
The author includes photos throughout the story that helped further draw you into the story and connect you with the people and places at the time.
After Francis’ death and Alma and George’s arrest, the trial in England begins. It is quite the event with people lining up to get a seat in the courthouse. I felt that instant connection with these attendees, wanting to learn the details of the story. Goldenberg covers the trial in a detailed, easy-to-read format. I found myself unable to put the story down at this point. I really enjoyed the snippets of transcript included.
This story is captivating. The parallels between life then and now is unnerving. The author does a phenomenal job of structuring the story to make accessible. True crime stories can sometimes be overwhelming in detail, but this was a perfect blend of information, court records, and photos. I especially loved learning how each person got to this pivotal moment in time.
If you can’t tell, I love reading true crime. Historical true crime has always held a special interest to me. Comparing what led up to the murder, how it was investigated, and how justice was served back then and what this might look like today. This story is a perfect example of how a well-researched and thorough story can be brought to life by a talented author.
I loved this book! I would highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys true crime. I would also recommend it to those who aren’t sure about true crime and want to dip in their toes. As the murder occurred in 1935, there is some distance from the story, and it is more focused on the people and less on providing graphic details.
Deadly Triangle is available October 2022. Thank you Dundurn Press for the complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.