Two new true crime books delve into the controversial Erin Patterson trial, which has captivated audiences worldwide. Just one month after Patterson’s sentencing, seasoned authors Greg Haddrick and Duncan McNab released their respective works, providing readers with unique perspectives on the events surrounding the case. Haddrick’s book, The Mushroom Murders, is told through the eyes of a fictional juror, while McNab offers a more straightforward account in Recipe for Murder, drawing on his experience as a former detective and investigative journalist.
The timing of these publications is notable, occurring shortly after the trial concluded on July 29, 2023 in the small Victorian town of Leongatha. During a family lunch that day, Patterson served beef Wellington, which ultimately led to a series of tragic events. Guests who attended the meal were hospitalized shortly thereafter; three of them—Patterson’s mother-in-law, her husband, and an aunt—died within a week. The subsequent media frenzy surrounding Patterson’s arrest brought international attention to the case.
Haddrick’s approach in The Mushroom Murders is particularly intriguing. He narrates the story from the viewpoint of a fictional female juror, who imagines herself as the owner of a picture-framing business in Morwell. This unique storytelling technique allows readers to experience the trial alongside the juror, despite the author clearly stating that he did not consult actual jurors due to legal restrictions. Haddrick notes, “I wanted readers to feel they were on that journey with the jury.”
While neither book introduces new evidence, both authors provide valuable insights into the trial’s complex legal proceedings and the public’s reaction. The narrative details the emotional turmoil surrounding Patterson’s family and the jurors’ experiences as they sifted through the evidence presented during the eleven-week trial.
The trial revealed that Patterson had deliberately poisoned her estranged husband’s parents and his aunt and uncle, leading to the deaths of three individuals. McNab’s Recipe for Murder focuses on the background of the case, examining Patterson’s relationships and her alleged history of deception. He captures the essence of the trial’s impact, stating that Patterson’s actions constituted a profound betrayal of those who had shown her kindness.
Haddrick’s book presents a more speculative viewpoint, examining the thought processes of his fictional juror as she grapples with the evidence. Readers may find his literary device both compelling and controversial. While the juror expresses sympathy for Patterson early on, as the narrative unfolds, her perspective shifts, revealing the complexities of the case. The book ultimately challenges readers to consider the ethical implications of such storytelling techniques.
In contrast, McNab’s narrative is more grounded in factual reporting, presenting a detailed account of the trial’s proceedings, including the jury’s deliberation process. He meticulously outlines the prosecution’s and defense’s arguments, emphasizing the significance of the jury’s verdict on all four charges. Importantly, he also highlights the victim impact statements that were presented during the trial, which provided a poignant reminder of the real-life consequences of Patterson’s actions.
As both authors explore the unfolding drama of the trial, they shed light on the broader societal implications of the case. With the legal system’s intricacies and the media’s role in shaping public perception, these books serve as reflections on the complexities of justice and morality.
While both The Mushroom Murders and Recipe for Murder are commendable in their own right, they often cover similar ground. Readers interested in a more analytical approach to the trial may prefer McNab’s work, which is rich in detail and legal context. Haddrick provides a creative interpretation that may engage those looking for a narrative-driven experience, albeit one that some might find ethically questionable.
A third book, The Mushroom Tapes, authored by Helen Garner, Chloe Hooper, and Sarah Krasnostein, is set for publication next month. As interest in the Erin Patterson case continues to grow, it is clear that the story will remain a topic of discussion and analysis for some time. The Victorian Supreme Court’s proceedings have left an indelible mark on the community and beyond, prompting ongoing reflection on the nature of crime and justice.
