Books matching: gruesome murders
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Save:Naked Came the Sasquatch by John Boston is a comedy horror story set in a small California town, revolving around a series of grisly murders that may or may not be the work of a local Bigfoot. The book follows the editor of the local newspaper who is facing multiple challenges such as the impending demise of his paper, his insane brothers, his attraction to his newest reporter, and the mysterious murders happening in town, all while maintaining a humorous and whimsical tone throughout. John Boston's writing style is described as unique, infectious, and capable of making readers laugh out loud with consistency, elevating the book to a level where it becomes a standard in the genre.
January 1993•342 pages - #2
Save:A violent, fast-paced, and twisty thriller that will keep you up all night - perfect for fans of dark psychological mysteries, but squeamish readers beware!
Bloodman by Robert Pobi is a psychological murder mystery thriller that follows FBI consultant Jake Cole as he reluctantly returns home to Montauk to look after his estranged father, famed painter Jacob Coleridge. Once a brilliant man, Coleridge is now gripped by dementia and in a moment of madness set himself on fire. Jake is called in to consult on the murder of a mother and child, in a town threatened by a deadly hurricane. As the action escalates, Montauk is battered by a Category 5 hurricane, adding to the suspense of capturing a serial killer. The plotline is imaginative, with a unique protagonist and a dark and gritty writing style that keeps readers hooked till the end.
Two hundred feet below the rolling metal surface of the Atlantic, a handful of ghosts skittered along the ocean floor in a jerky seesaw roll, furling and unfurling in a diluvial ballet. They were drag...May 2012•448 pages - #3
Save:Compelling characters, clever twists, and a seriously atmospheric vibe make this a standout in modern crime fiction - just be patient with the slower first act, because the payoff is totally worth it.
'The Puppet Show' by M.W. Craven follows Detective Inspector Washington Poe, a maverick investigator on suspension due to a past mistake or misdeed. When a serial killer starts leaving victims marked with Poe's name, he is brought back to work alongside the brilliant analyst Tilly Bradshaw. Together, they delve into a dark and intricate case involving gruesome murders, twisted motives, and unexpected revelations. The book's writing style is compelling, with well-developed characters, a fast-paced plot, and skillful storytelling that keeps readers hooked until the very end.
She looked around to see if there was anyone to share her findings with, but the Serious Crime Analysis Section office was empty. She checked her watch and saw it was coming up to midnight. She’d work...June 2018•369 pages A true crime classic that’s gripping, exhaustive, and disturbing - if you’re interested in what really happened with the Manson murders, you can’t miss it, but brace yourself for a wild (and very detailed) ride.
'Helter Skelter: The True Story of the Manson Murders' by Vincent Bugliosi is a chilling account of the Manson Family's heinous crimes and the subsequent trial that shook America in the late 1960s. Through detailed narration and a riveting writing style, Bugliosi and Gentry paint a vivid picture of the Tate-LaBianca murders, shedding light on Manson's manipulative tactics and the intricacies of the American legal system. The book delves into the psyche of Charles Manson and his followers, exploring the complexities of their actions and the impact on their victims and society as a whole.
Bugliosi's meticulous attention to detail and his ability to provide a factual yet engaging narrative make this book a standout in the true crime genre. Readers are drawn into the disturbing world of the Manson Family, from the gruesome crimes to the courtroom drama, experiencing a mix of fear, fascination, and disbelief. The authors' comprehensive research and compelling storytelling offer a deep dive into one of the most infamous criminal cases in history, leaving a lasting impression on those who dare to uncover the dark truths within its pages.
It was hot that night, but not as hot as the night before, when the temperature hadn’t dropped below 92 degrees. The three-day heat wave had begun to break a couple of hours before, about 10 P.M. on F...1974•685 pages- #5
Save:The Holy Thief by William Ryan is a suspenseful crime novel set in 1930s Soviet Moscow, following the investigation led by Detective Captain Alexei Dmitriyevich Korolev into a series of gruesome murders linked to the sale of valuables by the Russian state. Korolev, a believable hero navigating through political factions and dangerous plots, is praised for his integrity and commitment to uncovering the truth amidst the pervasive paranoia fostered by Stalin's regime. The story delves into the complexities of life under early communist rule, the all-encompassing fear, and the intricate relationships between various state organizations.
The plot of The Holy Thief is intricately woven, reminiscent of American espionage movies but set in 1930s Russia. Readers find the main character, Korolev, to be extremely believable, with a damaged past yet a humane conscience, making clever connections and facing a string of punishments with realism and determination. The book offers a glimpse into the dark and turbulent era of Stalin's purges, showcasing thorough research and authentic atmosphere that immerses readers into the grim reality of 1930s Moscow.
It was later than usual when Captain Alexei Dmitriyevich Korolev climbed the steps in front of Number 38 Petrovka Street, headquarters of the Moscow Militia’s Criminal Investigation Division. The morn...2010•364 pages - #6
Save:The River Is Dark by Joe Hart follows Liam Dempsey, a retired detective, as he investigates the brutal murders of his brother and sister-in-law. The story is dark and filled with suspense as Liam uncovers clues, faces his own torments, and delves into the mysteries surrounding the murders. Despite facing obstacles from the local police, Liam is determined to seek justice and unravel the truth behind the horrific crimes, leading to a tense and exciting conclusion.
The novel is a fast-paced thriller set in a bucolic town along the Mississippi River, combining elements of horror, mystery, and romance. Hart's writing style keeps the reader engaged as the plot unfolds, revealing layers of backstory, character development, and unexpected twists that add depth to the narrative. As Liam navigates through the investigation, the story explores themes of loss, grief, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of darkness.
Liam blinked at the ceiling and wondered for the hundredth time why he even set the damn thing each night. Routine, that’s why. The doctor said routine was good for sleep. Routine. With a grunt he rol...2013•238 pages - #7
Save:A fast-paced, gruesome, and addictive thriller that introduces a compelling detective duo. If you love serial killer mysteries with shocking twists and don’t mind vivid horror, The Crucifix Killer is a fantastic (if chilling) place to start.
The Crucifix Killer by Chris Carter follows Homicide Detective Robert Hunter and his new partner as they investigate a series of gruesome murders that bear the signature of a serial killer known as the Crucifix Killer, who was believed to have been executed years ago. The book is described as a tight, suspenseful thriller with great characters, twists, and edge-of-your-seat suspense. The writing style is noted to be technically terrible but engaging, with short chapters that make it easy to put down and pick up.
‘As I’ve said, it’s a surprise, Robert,’ the metallic voice said laughing. ‘But I’ll give you another chance to make a difference. Maybe this time you’ll put more effort into it. Be at the laundry roo...October 2009•436 pages - #8
Save:A gruesome, beautifully written historical noir with jaw-dropping atmosphere - absolutely gripping if you can handle the darkness.
The Wolf and the Watchman by Niklas Natt och Dag is set in late 18th century Stockholm, amidst a gritty and dark backdrop filled with poverty and violence. The story follows a watchman named Mikel Cardell and a sickly lawyer, Cecil Winge, as they investigate the gruesome discovery of a dismembered body in a stagnant bog. As they delve deeper into the case, they encounter a disturbing world of criminals, drunks, and the desperation of the city's lower class, revealing the harsh realities of life at that time.
Natt och Dag's writing style is richly descriptive, transporting readers to a time when life was brutal and unforgiving. The novel features multiple perspectives, offering insights into the various characters' lives as they grapple with moral dilemmas and the darkness surrounding them. The narrative is gripping, albeit graphic at times, filled with visceral horror and raw emotion, drawing comparisons to classic literature while maintaining a modern edge. The intricate plot weaves together themes of humanity and monstrosity, making it a thought-provoking read that lingers long after the last page.
2017•384 pages - #9
Save:An atmospheric, creepy, and twisty thriller that’s a page-turner for horror and mystery fans - especially those who like their stories dark, brainy, and a little wild. Just don’t skip "Relic" first!
'Reliquary' is a gripping sequel to 'Relic', set in New York City and delving into the depths of the Museum of Natural History, the abandoned subway tunnels inhabited by the homeless, and a wealthy woman's quest to rid the city of crime. The plot unfolds with the discovery of mysterious bones, leading FBI Special Agent Pendergast, Dr. Margo Green, and Lieutenant D'Agosta on a thrilling investigation involving a new deadly drug called Haze and a place known as the Devil's Attic deep underground. The writing style is fast-paced, full of suspense, and keeps readers on the edge of their seats with its twists and turns.
He looked back over the stern, watching the froth of the Harlem River spread out behind the propeller in a brown wedge. The river was wide here, rolling sluggishly under the hot gray haze of the Augus... - #10
Save:A richly detailed, literary historical mystery with gruesome murders, poetic detectives, and a love of Dante at its heart - dark, cerebral, and rewarding for those who like their mysteries with a hefty dose of history and intellect.
'The Dante Club' by Matthew Pearl revolves around a series of murders in Boston in 1865, inspired by scenes from Dante's Inferno. The main characters, including Longfellow, Lowell, and Holmes, are working on the first American translation of Dante's Divine Comedy. As the group delves into solving the mysterious murders, they find themselves in a race against time, trying to prevent further casualties and protect Dante's literary future. seamlessly combines historical fiction with a murder mystery, offering readers a glimpse into the lives of prominent literary figures in the post-Civil War era.
The author, Matthew Pearl, skillfully weaves together elements of history, literature, and mystery, creating an engaging narrative that keeps readers intrigued throughout the book. Through detailed descriptions and well-researched references to Dante's work, Pearl transports readers back to 19th century Boston, providing a vivid portrayal of the time period and the intellectual pursuits of the characters involved in unraveling the murders.
John Kurtz, the chief of the Boston police, breathed in some of his heft for a better fit between the two chambermaids. On one side, the Irish woman who had discovered the body was blubbering and wail...February 2003•428 pages
