06/02/2026
For those of you who like to listen to audio books while traveling, I recommend Cave Mountain: A Disappearance and a Reckoning in the Ozarks by Benjamin Hale.
"Cave Mountain is a 2026 true crime book that connects two mysterious disappearances of young girls in the Arkansas Ozarks, one in 2001 (Hale's cousin) and another in 1978, exploring themes of survival, faith, and a cult murder. The narrative begins with the massive search for Hale's six-year-old cousin, Haley Zega, who claimed an "imaginary friend" led her to safety, and delves into a darker history involving a doomsday cult and a murder that occurred near where Haley was found. "
Benjamin Hale narrates his book with a reading voice that fits the story -the book hooks you quickly. I like his extensive research and interviews with the people whose families have lived near the Buffalo River for hundreds of years, and the people who moved in to bring big changes. He nails it when he uses Ronald Regan's thoughts about the nine most terrifying words in the English language: "I'm from the government, and I'm here to help."
The cult members involved in the murder had deep roots in South Louisiana and East Texas. These sick folks have well known family names, when you hear those family names you will know. However, he did change the name of the one of the cult members and the location of her origin - he said he would explain why later in the book; I haven't reached that part yet.
Even though I have not finished this book, but I can already recommend it to readers/listeners who like true crime, the rugged outdoors, and know this beautiful area in Arkansas.
PSuggs, CPL Director
