As a self proclaimed true crime buff I have read a lot of books in the genre. I'll Be Gone In The Dark is one of the best I have ever read. Michelle McNamara masterfully inserts herself into the narrative with brutal honesty and humility. This novel focuses not only on the crimes but the way the crimes take over the lives of those close the horror.
I will give a full disclaimer and say that I did have to put this book down a couple of times and take a break. EAR committed atrocious crimes and it is impossible not to mourn for the victims, living or deceased.