Dead By Sunset

Dead By Sunset recounts the 1986 murder case of Cheryl Keeton, who was found dead in her van on Oregon's Sunset Highway. True crime author Ann Rule documents the investigation and subsequent trial of Keeton's estranged husband Brad Cunningham. The book follows the complex history of Brad Cunningham's relationships, marriages, and business dealings leading up to Keeton's death. Rule reconstructs events through court documents, police records, and extensive interviews with people connected to the case. The investigation spans several years as detectives work to build a case and bring the perpetrator to justice. The trial reveals a pattern of manipulation and deception that culminated in violence. This true crime account examines themes of domestic abuse, psychological manipulation, and the often-hidden dangers that can exist within seemingly normal relationships. The story serves as both a crime narrative and a cautionary examination of warning signs that preceded the violence.

Readers describe Dead By Sunset as a detailed account of Brad Cunningham's crimes, though many found the 500+ page length excessive. The thorough research and interviews with family members, friends, and investigators provide credibility to the narrative. Readers appreciated: - Rule's access to primary sources and court documents - The detailed psychological portrait of the killer - Integration of victim Cheryl Keeton's own words through diary entries Common criticisms: - Repetitive passages and unnecessary details - Too much focus on minor characters - Slow pacing in the middle sections Several readers noted the book could have been shortened by 150-200 pages while maintaining its impact. Ratings: Goodreads: 4.0/5 (12,000+ ratings) Amazon: 4.4/5 (800+ reviews) "Gets bogged down in minutiae but the courtroom scenes are riveting" - Amazon reviewer "Rule's best work since Stranger Beside Me" - Goodreads reviewer "Important story but needed better editing" - LibraryThing review

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🔍 Ann Rule worked as a police officer and crime reporter before becoming a true crime author, giving her unique insight into criminal investigations. 📚 The book spent 4 consecutive months on The New York Times Best Seller list in 1995-1996, reaching #3 at its peak. ⚖️ The case was solved largely through circumstantial evidence, as there were no eyewitnesses to Cheryl Keeton's murder. 🎬 The 1996 NBC mini-series adaptation starred Ken Olin and Lindsay Frost, airing in two parts over consecutive nights. 💔 The murder victim, Cheryl Keeton, was a successful attorney who had previously filed several police reports warning that her ex-husband might try to harm her.