The Forever Witness - Edward Humes

The Forever Witness - Edward Humes

She read

Publication Date: November 29, 2022

 This is a true account of how a 1987 cold case involving the murder of two young Canadians on a road trip in the state of Washington was solved thirty years later by a dogged detective with the assistance of DNA and genetic genealogy.

Humes details the trip the two victims made, the search for them, and the years long investigation.  He reports on the limited capabilities of forensics in the 1980s and 90s, along with the progression of advances in the analysis of DNA.  Insight is given into how a cold case detective works in identifying suspects.  While focusing primarily on this case, there is exploration into additional cases using forensic genealogy. 

A well written, engrossing, fast read,  Humes writes with humanity in talking about the young couple and their families. Some might find the book over detailed when describing the victims, the trial, the forensic science; I did not. He explains the science and controversy behind DNA matching in criminal investigations in an easily understandable manner.  

I enjoyed Humes mention of the queen of true crime novels, Ann Rule.  I have always enjoyed her books and found this one to be similar. Fans of true crime podcasts and shows such as Dateline will particularly enjoy this book.

*****

Thanks to #netgalley and #Dutton for the ARC