The Butcher of Humanity

Michael Goodrick’s performance is the spine of this audiobook, and he carries the load effortlessly. His voice has a rough, gravelly edge that feels like it belongs to someone who’s already heard too much and still can’t look away. He nails the cadence of Ortiz’s prose, which is both clinical and visceral—no hyperbole, just the cold facts delivered with enough weight to make your stomach twist. The pacing is relentless, which works because Panzram’s life (and crimes) were themselves relentless. Where the audiobook stumbles, though, is in the occasional editorial shortcut. At 1 hour and 58 minutes, it’s lean to a fault; some key moments in Panzram’s life (like his early years) are glossed over in favor of his crimes, leaving gaps that feel deliberate rather than strategic. And while Goodrick’s performance is strong, there are moments where his tone dips into monotony, especially during the denser historical sections. Still, these are minor quibbles in an otherwise gripping listen. The real question isn’t whether Panzram deserves a place in history’s darkest corners—it’s whether you’re ready to stare into that abyss. Goodrick’s narration and Ortiz’s unflinching prose make sure you don’t do it alone.