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Dr David Klatzow, esteemed forensic scientist that has seen it all, from crimes of passion to political assassinations, all the way through to investigations during the Apartheid era. Notorious cases, high-profile murders and the like, David Klatzow has seen it all and worked on some of the most memorable cases in South Africa. Steeped in Blood is a biographical account of his time as a forensic scientist and the things he had witnessed, worked on and documented during his twenty-six year career. Everything from cover-ups to state obstructions gets handled as he unveils the truth behind the yellow tape…
Steeped in Blood was an intriguing read that will keep the reader on the edge of their seat throughout. The book lays out not only the life and times of David Klatzow, but also gives the reader an opportunity to learn more about the process of forensic investigations, which crime dramas on TV (CSI: Miami, NCIS, etc.) obviously overlook, but presents it in such a way as to not bore the reader. We have interesting cases being discussed and also get the inside scoop as to how these cases affected David Klatzow. Gory details, descriptions that will give nightmares to even the most seasoned of investigators, death, deceit, lies… it’s all there and makes for a fascinating read that will give people a much better idea of how difficult it is to do this particular job. Forensic science isn’t as easy as its made out to be, and the excitement is few and far in between, but Steeped in Blood captures all the necessary elements that balances it out pretty nicely.
No stone remains uncovered in this book, as cases from the Apartheid era is handled. In particular, the case of the Helderberg 747 crash in 1987. With determination, Klatzow uncovers the massive cover-up by the Apartheid government, which of course also put his life at risk… Other than that, Klatzkow describes the court cases in which he had testified, brings into account the various atrocities he had the opportunity to uncover and more. It’s a real page turner and will keep readers wanting more.
Steeped in Blood is not for those with weak stomachs, though not necessarily that graphic, in some cases it does leave a bitter taste in ones mouth. That being said, those who are interested in forensic science will find this book very appealing. South Africa may have some of the most interesting crime cases in the world and reading about them in a book written by someone who experienced them first-hand will certainly qualify as being an awesome read.
