Trials of the Century Audiobooks No.1
The true story that inspired Donna Tartt’s The Secret History
In the summer of 1924, two brilliant young men set out to commit what they believed would be the perfect crime. The murder of fourteen-year-old Bobby Franks shocked Chicago and culminated in one of the most famous courtroom dramas of the twentieth century.
The Trial of Leopold & Loeb: Dickie & Babe presents this landmark case as a full-cast courtroom drama, constructed directly from trial transcripts, witness testimony, and contemporary reporting. The story unfolds entirely through dialogue and scene, allowing the voices of lawyers, witnesses, experts, and defendants to carry the narrative.
Performed by an ensemble cast and structured as a theatrical hearing rather than a conventional true-crime narration, this audiobook preserves the rhythm, tension, and moral complexity of the original proceedings.
More than a true-crime account, it is a study of ambition, cruelty, privilege, and persuasion — and of the courtroom itself as a stage on which justice, psychology, and public spectacle collide.
Published by Classic Crime Limited
Edition: Audiobook (unabridged)
ISBN: 9781918300000
Publication Date: 13 March 2026
Duration: 1 hour 31 minutes
Purchase link: https://trialsofthecentury.supportingcast.fm
Trials of the Century – About the Series
Before picking up this series, these were not cases I had any real knowledge of, and I think that’s exactly what drew me in. The idea of “Trials of the Century” instantly caught my attention, and I found myself really curious about the stories behind the name… I couldn’t wait to get started.
What makes this series feel so different is the way it’s been produced. These aren’t traditional audiobooks – each one is a full-cast dramatisation, very much in the style of a radio play, bringing real historical trials to life using original transcripts. It creates a really immersive listening experience that feels much more like stepping into a courtroom than simply being told the story. With each audiobook coming in at around 90 minutes, they’re also easy to dip into – long enough to feel complete, but without needing a huge time commitment.
There are multiple titles planned in the series, each written by a different author, which I love as it keeps the style feeling fresh. It’s also refreshing to see a focus on audio-first storytelling, with the option of scripts available separately for those who enjoy exploring the text alongside the performance.
If you’d like to find out more about the series, you can visit the website here: https://www.classic-crime.com
You can also follow along on Instagram for updates and new releases: https://www.instagram.com/trialsofthecentury
Trials of the Century – about the Production
These audiobooks are produced by Classic Crime Limited and performed as a full-cast dramatisation, drawing on a talented group of stage actors to bring the courtroom to life. The production leans into the feel of a traditional radio play, with a strong focus on voice, character, and atmosphere.
If you’re interested in learning more about how these audiobooks are created, or exploring other titles in the series, you can find further details on the Classic Crime website: https://www.classic-crime.com
My Review
The Trial of Leopold & Loeb: Dickie and Babe
This was my first experience of the Trials of the Century series, and it certainly made an impression. From the outset, there is a real sense of unease that runs throughout, and it’s one that stayed with me long after I’d finished listening.
What stood out most for me was the format. The full-cast dramatisation works incredibly well, creating an atmosphere that feels both intimate and intense. The way the dialogue is delivered, combined with the pacing of the production, draws you right into the courtroom and allows the details of the case to unfold in a way that feels immediate and, at times, deeply unsettling.
This is not an easy listen in terms of subject matter, and I think that’s important to say. The production doesn’t shy away from the darker elements of the case, but it also never feels sensationalised. Instead, it presents the events in a way that feels measured and considered, allowing the listener to absorb what is being said without distraction.
What really struck me was just how much this case stayed with me. Even after finishing, I found myself still thinking about the case, the people involved, and the arguments presented. That, for me, speaks volumes about how effective this format is. It doesn’t just tell you what happened – it places you right in the middle of it and lets the weight of it settle.
At around 90 minutes, it’s also a very accessible listen. It’s concise without feeling rushed, and it held my attention throughout, making it easy to listen to in one sitting. Overall, this is a powerful and thought-provoking introduction to the series. It’s not always comfortable, but it is incredibly compelling, and it’s left me very keen to continue with the next instalment.
I’ll be sharing my thoughts on the next audiobook in the series shortly.
Thank you to Classic Crime and NetGalley for providing a digital audio edition enabling me to enjoy and review this audiobook.
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Trials of the Century – continuing the Series
Having started this series, I’m really looking forward to exploring more of these fascinating cases as they’re released. It’s such an engaging way to experience true crime, and I’m excited to see which trials are brought to life next.
I’ve also listened to:
- The Trial of Dr Crippen: A Drop of Poison – you can read my review by clicking below
I’ll be updating this section as I continue with the series, so if you’re enjoying these dramatisations as much as I am, it’s definitely one to keep an eye on.
See About My Reviews and Review FAQ for full star rating explanations and review guidelines. This review may also appear on my social media channels and selected book platforms. All links were correct at the time of publication. DISCLOSURE: I received a review copy of this audiobook via NetGalley. As always, my thoughts are honest and my own. This review is original content. Please credit and link back if you wish to quote.
© [2026] [MoMoBookDiary]
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