Dead by Sunset

Perfect Husband, Perfect Killer?

By: Ann Rule

Narrated by: Richard Ferrone

Length: 20 hrs and 38 mins

Publisher's summary

The shocking tale from true crime queen Ann Rule.

Who is Brad Cunningham? How could five beautiful, intelligent, and successful women believe he was their dream come true? Ask any women who ever longed for "the perfect man".

Loni Ann, Cynthia, Lauren, Cheryl, and Sara seemed to have it all - beauty, wealth, children, and a husband who they believed to be this perfect man - Brad Cunningham. He was handsome, charismatic, and mysterious. They adored him and tried to give him all he wanted. But he wanted everything: sex, money, and it seemed, their very lives. How long would it take before he finally got what he deserved?

This question haunts Dead by Sunset, Ann Rule's riveting and impeccably researched study of the destructive relationships, multiple marriages, financial manipulations, and monstrous acts of harassment and revenge that surrounded Brad Cunningham and his wives. It is also a penetrating - and ultimately shocking - recreation of Cheryl's murder and the eight years it took to bring her killer to justice.

Dead by Sunset is a chilling look at the evil that lurks behind the most charming of facades and a fascinating homage to the kind of courage and brilliance it takes to combat it.

©2008 Ann Rule (P)2011 Simon & Schuster

Critic reviews

"Rule provides a perceptive character analysis of a malignant, self-centered, charismatic con artist. It's a chilling, haunting portrait." ( Publishers Weekly)

"The similarities with the O.J. case are compelling." ( The Spokesman-Review)

"Fascinating material.... Ms. Rule admirably recounts this labyrinthine tale. ( The New York Times Book Review)

A biased review

I live in Oregon, so I apologize for what might seem a picky complaint. I'm a fan of Ann Rule, have been for years. I'm used to her writing style and this book doesn't disappoint. It was made into a Lifetime movie that was also well-done. Having said all of that, as Chris stated in his review, the narrator's voice had that creepy/sinister edge to it. If that wasn't bad enough (here comes the picky part), he kept mispronouncing "Willamette," which, for Oregonians, is a big thing. Every time he said it, I cringed. So I'd have to say read the book, watch the movie, but this audiobook? Meh.

great

love love love Ann Rule ! One of the best writers there is . Narrator also did a wonderful job.

Super interesting

Super interesting. I love the way Ann writes, very detailed. Narration was good as well.

Very detailed

This book is probably a bit triggering for anyone who has been in a relationship like this but it’s very good. It’s just baffling how people can fall for people like Brad. There is soooo much detail. So much to cover in this very fascinating story. The trial, is by far the best part of the book.

Captivating

This book was so well written. Quite long, which allowed you to really delve into the characters lives. I even caught myself tearing up at certain points. A must read.

Ann Rule was a National Treasure

Classic Ann Rule - the best :) always getting a great story from her :) can’t wait for the next one

Great detail

This book is absorbing. Ann Rule’s rich details create a whole picture of these people. Very enjoyable.

Horrible man. Excellent book.

Once again Ann Rule creates a masterpiece. I feel so sorry for all of his victims.

so interesting

the reader is excellent, the story complicated and Brad is a horrible​man who needs to be locked away.

Great book

I really enjoyed this book and definitely recommend! Some reviews I read prior to listening to the book complained about the length, but I’m glad it was long and detailed! My dog got quite a few extra miles of walking in while I listened! Can’t wait to listen to another Ann Rule book.