The Great Read: Did the Zodiac Kill the Black Dahlia? This Crime Writer Thinks So.
The novelist Michael Connelly knows he is putting his reputation on the line with the podcast “Killer in the Code.” But despite critics’ skepticism, he finds the evidence “completely convincing.”
The New York Times
The Great Read
August 26, 2026, 2:01 p.m. Eastern time

On weekdays and Sundays, we recommend one piece of exceptional writing from The Times — a narrative or essay that takes you someplace you might not expect to go.

Michael Connelly stands behind a desk in an office, the Hollywood Hills visible behind him.

Philip Cheung for The New York Times

Did the Zodiac Kill the Black Dahlia? This Crime Writer Thinks So.

The novelist Michael Connelly knows he is putting his reputation on the line with the podcast “Killer in the Code.” But despite critics’ skepticism, he finds the evidence “completely convincing.”

Open now

If you received this newsletter from someone else, subscribe here.

Need help? Review our newsletter help page or contact us for assistance.

You received this email because you signed up for top stories or great reads from The New York Times.

To stop receiving The Great Read, unsubscribe. To opt out of other promotional emails from The Times, including those regarding The Athletic, manage your email settings.

Subscribe to The Times

Connect with us on:

facebookxinstagramwhatsapp

Change Your EmailPrivacy PolicyContact UsCalifornia Notices

Zeta LogoAdChoices Logo

The New York Times Company. 620 Eighth Avenue New York, NY 10018