By Marissa Wells
Contributing Writer
“The Berman Murders: Unraveling the Mojave Desert’s Most Mysterious Unsolved Crime,” by Doug Kari, tells the true-crime story of Barry and Louise Berman, a couple who vanished on Jan. 6, 1986, during a camping trip in the Mojave Desert. Their bodies were discovered by the local sheriff’s office, but despite extensive investigations by both local and federal authorities, the double homicide remained unsolved for years, shrouded in speculation and conjecture.
Kari, who has written a number of true-crime stories, was led to write this book due to the location of where the crime occurred.
“Barry and Louise Berman were murdered in a beautiful, almost mystical place — a clothing-optional oasis in a remote desert valley, 50 miles from the nearest paved road,” Kari said. “For years the case gnawed at me, so I decided to investigate.”
Kari embarked on a meticulous journey of investigation, research and interviews, and was ultimately able to link the Berman murders to Cambodian sex crimes and a trafficking case involving a former Marine. “The Berman Murders” is the first book to comprehensively narrate the Berman murders and reveal the likely suspect behind the crime.
It was important for the author to share the Berman’s story in the hope that it would bring closure to “family and friends of the Bermans and people who love exploring the desert.”
Kari investigates true-crime stories firsthand and in depth. Inside his book, he includes commentary from the Berman family, investigators from Inyo County and excerpts from original documents pertaining to the case. The documents also may be viewed on the author’s website, dougkari.com.
The book will be enjoyed by readers who thrive on the emotion, drama, twists and turns of true crime.
In addition to being an author, Kari is a lawyer and desert explorer. He is based in Orange County, and Henderson, Nevada. He’s currently working on a new true-crime book about the murder of Naomi Irion. For more information about the author and his work, visit dougkari.com.
“The Berman Murders: Unraveling the Mojave Desert’s Most Mysterious Unsolved Crime” is available for $34 via rowman.com, Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and many other book selling outlets. Use discount code: RLFANDF30 for 30% off via rowman.com.
