Books matching: murder trial
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- #1
A fascinating, stylish account of real crimes and the women who captivated Chicago - ideal for fans of true crime with a theatrical twist. Perfect for curling up with when you want your history bold and your intrigue beautiful.
'The Girls of Murder City' by Douglas Perry delves into the real-life stories of Beulah Annan and Belva Gaertner, two women involved in murder trials in Chicago during the 1920s. The first part of the book focuses on the crimes, trials, and eventual acquittals of Beulah and Belva, showcasing how they represented the sensationalism of the era. The second part explores how Maurine Watkins developed the play 'Chicago' based on these stories, highlighting her critical eye towards media madness and sensationalism. not only covers the trials but also provides insights into Maurine's career as a crime reporter and her rivalry with other female reporters.
Out in the hallway, young men stood in a haphazard line, trying to look eager and nonchalant at the same time. They were regulars outside the Chicago Tribune newsroom, waiting around each day, hoping...June 2010•309 pages More Southern Gothic character study than true crime, Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil is an atmospheric, entertaining, and memorable walk through Savannah’s most colorful corners - perfect for those who savor eccentric personalities and stories stranger than fiction.
Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil by John Berendt is a creative non-fiction book that delves into the eccentric characters and atmosphere of Savannah, Georgia in the 1970s and 80s. The book uses a celebrated murder trial as a backdrop to introduce the reader to the city and its colorful inhabitants. Berendt's writing style is praised for capturing the essence of Savannah and its quirky residents, blurring the lines between fiction and reality.
The book is a combination of a travelogue about Savannah, Georgia, and a glimpse into its upper-middle-class society through the lens of a murder in their midst. It offers an atmospheric portrayal of the city, showcasing its unique charm and the intriguing personalities that inhabit it, all while exploring the infamous slaying of Danny Hansford and the multiple murder trials of his lover, Jim Williams.
I had heard Jim Williams’s name mentioned often during the six months I had lived in Savannah. The house was one reason, but there were others. He was a successful dealer in antiques and a restorer of...January 1785•401 pages- #3
A glamorous, twisty trip through 1920s New York - packed with romance, secrets, and sharp period detail. Will delight historical fiction fans who crave plenty of drama and style.
A Certain Age by Beatriz Williams is a historical fiction novel set in the 1920s New York City, revolving around the lives of high society characters Theresa Marshall, Sophie Fortescue, and Octavian Rofrano. The plot involves a love triangle, scandalous affairs, family secrets, and a murder trial that adds intrigue to the story. The book is described as a fun and engaging read, with alternating chapters that provide insights into the characters' lives and decisions, all set against the backdrop of the Jazz Age.
DURING THE night, I dream that my husband arrives unexpectedly from Manhattan, in a plume of sultry exhaust from the engine of his Buick Battistini speedster, and let me tell you, the intrusion is mos...June 2016•372 pages - #4
A moving, beautifully written deep dive into the human and legal drama behind a harrowing case - best for readers who crave complexity, courtroom realities, and sobering reflection over easy answers.
In This House of Grief, Helen Garner delves into the harrowing trial of Robert Farquharson, a father accused of murdering his three young sons by driving his car into a dam after an access visit. Garner meticulously details the courtroom drama, providing a riveting and insightful account of the proceedings. Through her narrative, Garner explores the complexities of the case, from the conflicting testimonies to the emotional turmoil experienced by all involved. Her writing style immerses readers into the heart-wrenching story, making them question the truth behind the tragic events.
Once there was a hard-working bloke who lived in a small Victorian country town with his wife and their three young sons. They battled along on his cleaner’s wage, slowly building themselves a bigger...August 2014•326 pages A chilling, in-depth true crime tale that’s as fascinating as it is disturbing - essential for true crime enthusiasts, but may be too detailed for casual readers.
In 'Anne Perry and the Murder of the Century' by Peter Graham, the book delves into the chilling true story of the Parker Hulme case, where two teenage girls, Juliet Hulme and Pauline Parker, brutally murdered Pauline's mother in New Zealand in 1954. The narrative explores the girls' obsessive friendship, their motivations for the crime, the sensational trial that followed, and the aftermath of the murder. Peter Graham's writing style captivates readers by presenting a well-researched and engrossing account that delves into the complexities of the case, from the girls' early lives to the murder and beyond, leaving readers with unanswered questions and thought-provoking theories.
By eleven o’clock in the morning, hard bright sunlight had melted the last pockets of frost from the rector’s expansive lawns and dispelled the mist from the river that glided through the grounds. It...2011•375 pages- #6
A compelling and atmospheric mix of true crime and early American history - perfect for history buffs and true crime fans, but less so for those wanting a tight focus exclusively on Hamilton or Burr.
'Duel with the Devil' by Paul Collins delves into the true story of a murder mystery set in 1799 New York City. The narrative revolves around the accused, Levi Weeks, who is defended by the unlikely pair of Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr. Through a detailed account of the murder trial, the author paints a vivid picture of post-revolution America, intertwining the lives of historical figures in a gripping detective tale. skillfully combines elements of history and storytelling, providing insight into the court system, politics, and daily life of the era.
IT WAS A FINE DAY FOR WONDERS. GIANT LOBSTER CLAWS, A LITTLE pagoda, some unburnable asbestos paper—these were the peculiar riches of a collection that the late Gardiner Baker had begun for his museum...June 2013•305 pages - #7
A classic, cleverly crafted locked room mystery - full of puzzles, sharp wit, and courtroom twists. Not for those hunting for complex characterization, but a total treat for puzzle-mystery fans!
'The Judas Window' by Carter Dickson is a classic locked room mystery featuring the brilliant sleuth Sir Henry Merrivale. The story revolves around a wealthy young man who finds himself in a precarious situation after being drugged and waking up to discover a dead body in a sealed room. As the young man faces trial for murder, Sir Henry Merrivale takes on the role of an unconventional defense attorney, providing a fast-paced and humorous courtroom drama that offers vital clues leading to the solution of the ingenious murder plot. The book combines elements of a locked room mystery with a courtroom thriller, keeping readers engaged from cover to cover with unexpected twists and clever deductions.
1938•232 pages
(Also, see 32 recommendations for the series Sir Henry Merrivale ) - #8
A witty, well-crafted mystery with a memorable cast and the spark of a legendary literary romance. A must-read for cozy crime fans and anyone who enjoys smart, character-focused storytelling.
'Strong Poison' in the 'Lord Peter Wimsey' series by Dorothy L. Sayers narrates the beginning of Lord Peter's relationship with Harriet Vane. Peter falls in love with Harriet as she is on trial for her lover's murder. The plot revolves around Peter's conviction of Harriet's innocence and his determination to prove it, despite social stigma and challenges. The writing style is described as well-constructed, amusing, and thought-provoking, with deeper questions raised about relationships and societal norms.
The judge was an old man; so old, he seemed to have outlived time and change and death. His parrot-face and parrot-voice were dry, like his old, heavily-veined hands. His scarlet robe clashed harshly... - #9
A gripping, well-researched true crime story - imperfectly written but unforgettable for its honest, heartfelt look at a notorious unsolved case.
'Under the Trestle: The 1980 Disappearance of Gina Renee Hall & Virginia?s First ?No Body? Murder Trial' by Ron Peterson Jr. is a gripping true crime story that delves into the tragic disappearance of Gina Hall, a college student, and the subsequent murder trial without a body. The author provides a detailed and thorough account of the events, investigation, trial, and emotional impact on the victims' family and the community involved. The writing style is journalistic, capturing the essence of a groundbreaking case with compelling circumstantial evidence and current updates on the cold case.
Two weeks previously, the petite Radford University freshman visited a night club near Virginia Tech to go dancing on a Saturday night. She left the club with a man shortly after midnight and had not...December 2018•333 pages - #10
Blood and Money is a classic, juicy, and oh-so-Texan true crime saga. It’s meticulously researched and reads like a novel, but it’s not for the faint of heart - or the impatient. If you like your true crime layered, sprawling, and messy, you’ll devour it; if you need heroes to root for, you might want to look elsewhere.
Blood and Money by Thomas Thompson is a compelling true crime story set in Houston, Texas, focusing on the tragic life and death of Joan Robinson Hill and the subsequent murder trial of her husband, Dr. John Hill. The book intricately weaves together the complex relationships and motivations of the characters involved, shedding light on the dark side of wealth, power, and ambition. Thompson's writing style is described as engaging and thorough, providing vivid portrayals of the key players and immersing the reader in the dramatic events that unfolded in the late 1960s and early 1970s.
During the night an early spring rain washed the city and now, at dawn, the air was sweet and heavy. Remnants of fog still held to the pavements of Houston, rolling across the streets like cobweb tumb...1976•487 pages










