Broken Lives Paperback by Estelle Blackburn

Broken Lives by Estelle Blackburn is a compelling true-crime account that delves into the life and crimes of Eric Edgar Cooke, the last man to be hanged in Western Australia. Between 1958 and 1963, Cooke committed a series of murders and attempted murders that instilled fear across Perth. His crimes included shootings, stabbings, and hit-and-runs, targeting both men and women of various ages and backgrounds.

The book also highlights the wrongful convictions of John Button and Darryl Beamish, who were imprisoned for crimes committed by Cooke. Blackburn's exhaustive six-year investigation uncovered new evidence and inconsistencies in the original cases, leading to the exoneration of both men. Button's manslaughter conviction was quashed in 2002, and Beamish's wilful murder conviction was overturned in 2005.

Broken Lives is not just a recounting of criminal events but also an exploration of the flaws in the judicial system and the impact of wrongful convictions on individuals and their families. It serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of justice and the enduring effects of crime on society.

📚 Important Note on Book Condition:
This is a pre-owned/used book. While all pages are intact and perfectly readable, the book may show signs of wear such as:

1) Minor creases or bends, 2) Slight yellowing of pages, 3) Faint markings or name written inside

We ensure good, readable condition for every book we sell.
If you're looking for new or pristine condition, please check our listings marked as "New."