The Storyteller: Naked Villainy

Isla’s commitment from age 22 till the end of this trial is unparalleled. Most journalists, even good ones, even excellent ones, would’ve let go and moved on. Isla held steady and brought us an amazing opportunity to hear Justice speaking for Herself , witness by witness, expert by expert, hour by hour.

I have really enjoyed this podcast. Beautifully sensitive storytelling. Thank you!

As a true crime podcast aficionado, let me tell you there is literally no reason for a true crime podcast about a single case to span 30+ episodes - other than perhaps to sell more ad space, if you’re being cynical. If Serial could wrap cases as complex as the ones they featured in 8-9 episodes, then this should have been wrapped in maybe 6. The author contributes almost no commentary and though the court testimony is fascinating, it has barely been edited at all, so the podcast largely consists huge chunks of courtroom speechifying. The host provides very little useful analysis but makes it clear at every then that she thinks the accused is guilty. I’m more used to even-handed hosts who present the facts with at least a degree or objectivity. I’ll keep listening to the end as I’m invested now, but I definitely wouldn’t seek out another podcast by this author.

Not only is this podcast (both series /episodes) compelling -yet tragic, the narrator (writer) has an uncanny way of bringing the stories to life in a calming, compassionate way. I appreciate how she tells the story and more importantly tells the story of the victims and the victims’ family/friends. She affirms them as well as giving them a voice.