Smile

Behind the Lens of the ‘Dating Game Killer’ (True Crime)

By: Ryan Green

Narrated by: Steve White

Length: 4 hrs and 11 mins

Publisher's summary

In 1978, Cheryl Bradshaw was a contestant on the popular TV matchmaking show, ‘The Dating Game’. From a lineup of eligible bachelors, she selected the handsome daredevil photographer, Rodney Alcala.

As the charmed audience watched the couple embrace, a chilling truth lurked behind the camera lens. Rodney Alcala was a serial killer in the midst of a chilling rampage. Hiding in plain sight.

Alcala lured in his victims by offering them the chance to be a part of his professional photography portfolio, with the promise of launching their modelling careers. But the 1,020 photographs, later found in a secret storage locker by the police, revealed a devastating ulterior motive.

Smile is a chilling account of Rodney Alcala, one of the most prolific serial killers in American history. Ryan Green gives a suspenseful narrative that draws the listener into the real-life horror experienced by the victims with all the elements of a captivating thriller.

CAUTION: This book contains descriptive accounts of abuse and extreme violence. If you are sensitive to this material, it might be advisable not to proceed any further.

©2023 Ryan Green (P)2023 Ryan Green

Genius writing

Another great book from Ryan Green.
Horrible events told with such expertise and knowledge.
One of the best true crime authors I have the honor to read.

He has a way of telling the stories that keep you engaged and interested, with tactfulness to respect the victims

Do you remember this guy?

In this riveting examination of one of society’s most reprehensible individuals, Ryan Green shines a spotlight on the incredibly twisted but largely forgotten Rodney Alcala. Most people, if they remember him at all, remember him as someone who charmed a bachelorette into choosing him for her date on ‘The Dating Game’ TV show back in the 70s and was later discovered to be a cold-blooded serial killer. While it is true that his story has garnered some recent media attention with Rodney being the subject of a new movie release, there is much more to know about him. Ryan Green must have culled through mountains of interview notes, newspaper articles and court transcripts to provide this shocking story of Rodney’s bizarre life and brutal crimes. I will also mention that Steve White’s masterful narration of the story will chill you to the very marrow of your bones. I would be lying if I said I wasn’t left astounded at how utterly devoid of empathy a person can be and horrified at how our legal system can permit such depraved individuals to indulge in their perversions for so long. I would urge anyone interested in true crime, criminal psychology, or personal security to read and/or listen to this book. It is truly an eye-opener.

Another Triumph in True Crime Tales

I am a long time fan of Ryan Green's work and get excited every time there is a new title for me to devour and this one did not disappoint.

The story follows the life and mind of serial killer Rodney Alcala, giving an insight into what may have driven this outspoken and intense man to photograph, abduct, rape, and murder women and girls. In grueling and unsettling detail, the book describes the crimes that were committed and that Alcala was later convicted for, but even more frightening is the thousands of photographs of unknown people that may or may not have also been a part of his crime spree.

Chilling. Worth a listen.

Most never see them coming

As a longtime reader of Ryan Green's true crime non-fiction uniquely altered to bring us into the story rather than a timeline, I've noticed something prevalent to the best FBI profiler authors also read, and that’s empathy for the victims. It's a testament to his respect for humanity that he keeps in the forefront the humanity of those whose lives were cut short. Cut short by senseless murders by criminals often awarded long lives, whereas those they killed weren't allowed.

Good true crime listen

I was given this book for free,

This is a good true crime listen, and narration was fine as well.

Great writing

I thoroughly enjoyed listening to this book, I thought it was very well written. I love true crime books! I feel that it was well researched and had all the important information. I will definitely look into more by Ryan Green!

Dating Who!!!

Very good read. I really enjoy Ryan Greens books. Love his true crime stories. Makes you wonder about who you are dating

Interesting concept ...

Interesting premise, but poorly executed.
The writing was just rather dull—usually I do enjoy true crime and it's likely well researched so do check it out if you enjoy this genre.

Based on this read, would I read any more of this author’s work? Probably not.


Audio:
Narrator sounds robotic, there’s no performance, just emotionless dictation. 1 star on this front.