When Ann Branson of Madisonville, Kentucky, was violently killed, the incident quickly became the talk of the town. Even though family members were shocked, more than anything they wanted to find out who would take someone else's life.
Ann's nephew, Jack Branson, was particularly eager. He knew better than anyone not to focus on obvious answers. From his standpoint as a former U.S. Treasury agent, the most unlikely suspect had to be considered. It's not uncommon for homicide victims to know the killer in some fashion. The possibilities are endless - the next door neighbor, a professional colleague, or perhaps the co-chair of the community aid society.
Murder in Mayberry: Greed, Death, and Mayhem in a Small Town talks about the agonizing search for a killer to be brought to justice. Written by Jack Branson and his wife, Mary Kinney Branson, it offers a personal perspective on having a family member die of unnatural causes.
Perusing this non-fiction mystery, my heart went out to the Madisonville police. The last time they handled a violent death was 20 years prior. No matter how much they wanted to see the case solved, a lack of experience doesn't help.
One of the biggest surprises of all is the killer. Early suspicion opened the door to his being considered a prime suspect, but he was not the only one. Any proof was circumstantial at best, meaning a trial could show just how worthless it was. Worse things were to come before an arrest could be made.
Such as a flight to another country. In a spectacular move, this person fled to Costa Rica. Extradition for those accused of capital crimes would only be granted if the death penalty was taken off the table and parole was on. No prison term for the rest of one's natural life would be considered.
As true crime stories go, Murder in Mayberry is an interesting one. The facts are laid out for the reader to see in clear and concise fashion. Every avenue is explored when it comes to figuring out whodunit. Will people be on the edges of their seats as they go through chapters? Probably not. However, getting to know the Branson family and the citizens of Madisonville is worth the cost of the book itself.
Article comments
1 - Larry Daniels
I have read this book, and it keeps your interest all of the way through. The couple who wrote it, a professional writer and a federal agent, offer a unique perspective. Add to that fact, that a beloved family member was the murder victim, and you have quite a story.
This would make a great movie.
2 - Emily Marks
I enjoyed this book, too, especially the subtle way the reader is presented with how the killer changed from trusting child to cold-blooded killer and also why this lovely, prominent woman allowed herself to be victimized.
After reading this book, I realize how vulnerable we all are. This family was one of the least likely to become victims of violent crime.
3 - Ben
Extremely good book!!
I really liked the family in it ;)
4 - NancyGail
Emily, Ann Branson didn't ALLOW herself to be a victim. She was killed by someone who refused to hear the word NO.
5 - David Oates
Sometimes things are not exactly what they seem especially in print!
6 - NancyGail
Perhaps not, but this story has a unique perspective due to the relationships involved.
7 - Kenneth Tucker
I don't know what David Oates means by his comment. Maybe I'm missing something.??
8 - NancyGail
I think because it's written by a family member about another one, he thinks the angle is biased a bit. Perhaps, but the story is a fascinating one anyway.
9 - Kenneth Tucker
I agree that it is a great story. It kept me up late at night when I read it.
10 - geoff
It was an interesting book. However the writing was amateurish and somewhat disorganized at times. The book could have been about 100 pages shorter and still offered the same story. Overall a good read though.
11 - Larry Daniels
Just a heads up that this book is going to be featured on a Discovery Channel new series that debuts this fall, called "Unusual Suspects".
The author gave this information to a friend of mine.
12 - Anthony Williams
The book was great!!! But I do have to set the story straight. I live in Madisonville Kentucky, in fact I knew Mrs. Ann Branson. I also know the person who lives next door to Mrs. Anns house. HE WAS NOT making fun of the murder. This man is my boss. He is a great person and he thinks very highly of the Branson family