Until the Twelfth of Never by Bella Stumbo is a gripping true crime story that explores the tragic and complex murder of Dan Broderick and his new wife, Linda Kolkena, by his ex-wife, Betty Broderick. This book dives deep into the psychology and emotions behind the infamous San Diego case, providing a well-rounded portrayal of the people involved. Stumbo meticulously traces the unraveling of Betty Broderick, a once-devoted mother and wife, as she descends into bitterness and ultimately murder.
Synopsis:
The book opens by delving into Betty and Dan Broderick’s early life. Betty, a Catholic school-educated woman from New York, dedicated her life to supporting her husband’s rise to success. Dan, an ambitious medical student-turned-lawyer, climbed the social ladder in San Diego’s legal scene. However, after 16 years of marriage and four children, their relationship soured, largely due to Dan’s affair with his legal assistant, Linda Kolkena.
The divorce, which dragged on for years, turned ugly. Dan, who had control over their finances, manipulated the legal system to maintain a hold over Betty. Her frustration escalated, leading to erratic behavior and eventually the cold-blooded murder of Dan and Linda as they slept in their bedroom.
Stumbo’s storytelling stands out for its nuanced portrayal of the psychological toll that the years of marital abuse, betrayal, and legal maneuvering took on Betty. Rather than painting her simply as a villain, Stumbo delves into her emotional turmoil and despair, making readers question whether Betty was pushed to the brink by Dan’s cruel tactics. The narrative masterfully weaves court documents, interviews, and detailed accounts of the trial, showing how a seemingly perfect life can devolve into tragedy.
Themes:
One of the book’s most compelling themes is the destructive power of obsession. Betty’s descent from being a devoted mother and wife to a killer is not simply due to Dan’s infidelity, but rather to her inability to let go of the life she had built with him. The book also explores the misuse of power, both in personal relationships and the legal system, as Dan’s influence as a lawyer allows him to manipulate Betty during their bitter divorce battle.
Stumbo also explores themes of gender and societal expectations, especially as Betty’s role as a dutiful wife becomes a prison from which she cannot escape. Her unraveling reflects broader questions about the emotional and psychological toll that rigid gender roles can take on women, particularly when their lives are centered around their husbands.
Review:
Critics have praised Until the Twelfth of Never for its thoroughness and Stumbo’s empathetic, yet unflinching approach to the Broderick saga. Readers appreciate how the book doesn’t simply sensationalize the crime, but instead delves deeply into the emotional and psychological motivations behind it. The narrative is gripping and fast-paced, despite the extensive details, as Stumbo effectively breaks down the layers of the case and provides the reader with a full picture of the circumstances leading to the tragic events.
However, some readers may find the level of detail overwhelming at times, particularly those not familiar with legal jargon. The book spans over 700 pages, making it a dense read, but for those invested in true crime and psychological drama, it’s a rewarding exploration of one of the most sensational murders in recent American history.
Read the Full Novel Here
Until the Twelfth of Never: The Deadly Divorce of Dan & Betty Broderick by Bella Stumbo | Goodreads
About the Author:
Bella Stumbo was an investigative journalist known for her in-depth reporting and narrative style. She worked for prestigious newspapers such as the Los Angeles Times and earned a reputation for her fearless approach to difficult subjects. Until the Twelfth of Never is one of her most well-known works, praised for its psychological depth and detailed exploration of the Broderick case. Stumbo passed away in 2002, leaving behind a legacy of compelling investigative journalism and true crime storytelling.
