Written In Blood

Short Description of Written in Blood by Diane Fanning

Written in Blood (2005) by Diane Fanning is a gripping true-crime book that investigates the infamous case of Michael Peterson, a novelist accused of murdering his wife, Kathleen Peterson, in 2001. The book delves into the chilling similarities between Kathleen’s death—initially ruled an accidental fall down a staircase—and the mysterious death of another woman linked to Peterson 16 years earlier in Germany .

### Key Highlights :

1. The Case – Examines the bloody crime scene in Durham, North Carolina, where Kathleen was found dead, with evidence suggesting blunt-force trauma rather than an accident .

2. Peterson’s Past – Reveals the shocking parallel death of Elizabeth Ratliff, a family friend in Germany, who also died at the bottom of a staircase while Peterson was present .

3. Trial & Controversy – Covers the dramatic courtroom battle, forensic evidence, and the prosecution’s argument that Peterson staged both deaths .

4. Media & Adaptations – The case inspired the Netflix documentary The Staircase and an HBO miniseries, but Fanning’s book is praised for providing deeper, fact-driven insights .

5. Critical Acclaim – Nominated for an Edgar Award (2006), the book is lauded for its meticulous research and balanced narrative, though some critics note its pro-prosecution bias .

Ideal For : True-crime enthusiasts, fans of The Staircase, or readers interested in forensic investigations and legal dramas.

Edition Notes :

- Originally published in 2005; updated editions.