Books matching: true crime enthusiast
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- #1
Save:A must-read for true crime fans and anyone curious about the history of DNA forensics - a riveting case with plenty of twists, though those craving nonstop science may want to manage expectations.
'The Blooding' by Joseph Wambaugh is a true crime book that delves into the chilling and suspenseful story of the first British murderer caught by DNA tracing. The narrative provides an insightful look at the process of identifying the victims and their attackers, showcasing the development of forensic science, the psychological profile of the killer, and the dedicated work of the police. Set in a small English village, the book weaves together the advances in DNA fingerprinting technology with the search for the killer, resulting in a compelling and intriguing true crime tale.
The book is praised for its detailed and graphic descriptions, offering a glimpse into the investigation of the brutal murders in the Leicester area. Readers appreciate the level of detail provided by Wambaugh, which adds depth to the true crime story and enhances the reading experience. With a focus on the victims' families, the development of genetic fingerprinting, and the professional investigation by the police, 'The Blooding' emerges as a must-read for true crime enthusiasts and those interested in the history of forensic science.
They say that in remote little English villages a newcomer can be accepted by the locals provided he buys property, pays his bills, and stays in continuous residence for about ninety-five years. The v...January 1989•432 pages - #2
Save:A witty and addictive YA mystery that will keep you guessing – but make sure you have the sequel on hand, because this cliffhanger won’t let you go!
In 'Truly Devious' by Maureen Johnson, the story follows Stevie Bell, a true crime enthusiast who gets accepted into the prestigious Ellingham Academy to pursue her dream of solving the decades-old murder and kidnapping that occurred at the school in 1936. The book alternates between the past events of 1936 and Stevie's present-day investigations, creating a compelling narrative full of mysteries and intriguing characters. However, the book ends on a major cliffhanger, leaving readers eagerly anticipating the next installment to unravel the unresolved plot threads.
Stevie finds herself caught up in a web of mysteries as she delves into the historical murder disappearance at Ellingham Academy while navigating her own challenges in the present day. With engaging storytelling that intertwines past and present events, Johnson crafts a YA murder mystery that keeps readers hooked with its blend of riddles, puzzles, and questions. Despite some readers finding the ending unsatisfying due to the abrupt cliffhanger, the book's ability to keep readers on edge and craving more sets the stage for a promising series that blends elements of historical crime with modern-day investigations.
This resulted in a long pause. Stevie and her parents had had many conversations about the nature of truth and fact, and this might, on another day, have erupted into an argument. Not today. They seem...January 2018•453 pages A compelling, modern, and personal take on true crime reporting and investigation. Great for true crime fans and those intrigued by the digital hunt for justice, but the memoir structure and citizen detective angle may not work for everyone.
Billy Jensen's 'Chase Darkness with Me' is a memoir detailing his journey from a true crime enthusiast to a full-time crime solver. The book covers his experiences in working on cold cases, developing new strategies for solving crimes, and advocating for justice through social media. Jensen's writing style is engaging, providing detailed accounts of his investigations while adding dark humor to lighten the intense subject matter.
It starts with an overhead shot—in color, but with no sound—of a man walking into a 7-Eleven. It’s late, well past 2:00 a.m., but the scene is glowing, the streetlamps working with the store signs to...August 2019•345 pages- #4
Save:A light, fast, and slightly darker-than-average cozy mystery that’s perfect for fans of Charlaine Harris or small-town whodunits - just don’t expect literary fireworks or unforgettable characters from book one.
"Real Murders" by Charlaine Harris is a cozy mystery novel featuring Aurora Teagarden, a librarian and member of the Real Murders Club, where they discuss historical murder cases. When members of the club start getting killed in ways that mimic famous murders, Aurora finds herself caught in the middle of the investigation, trying to solve the mystery before she becomes a victim herself. The writing style is described as engaging, with well-drawn characters and a plot that keeps readers guessing until the end.
We had twelve regular members, which worked out well with twelve programs a year. Not all cases could fill up a two-hour program, of course. Then the member responsible for presenting the Murder of th...1990•265 pages - #5
Save:A thoroughly researched, engaging biography of a woman who helped invent modern forensics, but it reads more as a sweeping life story than a hands-on forensic science guide. History lovers and true crime fans, especially those interested in the 'human element,' will find a lot to savor.
'18 Tiny Deaths: The Untold Story of Frances Glessner Lee and the Invention of Modern Forensics' by Bruce Goldfarb is a biography that delves into the life of Frances Glessner Lee, a wealthy woman who revolutionized the field of forensic science. It explores how Frances used her wealth and influence to fund the development of forensic science, including setting up the first Department of Legal Medicine at Harvard University. The narrative follows Frances' journey from her privileged upbringing to her creation of miniature crime scene models known as Nutshells, which were used to train investigators in observational skills. also sheds light on the challenges Frances faced in a male-dominated society and her significant contributions to the field of forensics.
Goldfarb's writing style in '18 Tiny Deaths' has been praised for its thorough research and engaging storytelling. Readers appreciated the detailed exploration of Frances Glessner Lee's life, her motivations, and the historical context surrounding the development of forensic science in the United States. is described as a compelling blend of biography and history, offering insights into Frances' determination, her impact on criminal investigation practices, and the evolution of forensics as a discipline.
February 2020 A fascinating, well-researched dive into the real stories that inspired horror classics - perfect for true crime and horror fans, but may drag for those less invested in the genres.
Behind the Horror: True Stories That Inspired Horror Movies by Lee Mellor delves into the real-life crime cases and events that served as the inspiration for some of the most iconic horror movies. The book presents a collection of fascinating and well-researched stories that shed light on the true events behind the films that have captivated audiences for decades. Readers will uncover the connections between the gruesome real-life incidents and the terrifying on-screen adaptations, providing a deeper understanding of the origins of their favorite horror movies. The writing style is engaging and informative, offering a mix of fun facts, insider knowledge, and captivating narratives that will appeal to both horror fans and true crime enthusiasts.
In 1931, the German director Fritz Lang wowed audiences around the world with M: A City Searches for a Murderer. Lang drew from the unprecedented number of serial killers who had emerged in Weimar-era...July 2020- #7
Save:'The Doomsday Mother: Lori Vallow, Chad Daybell, and the End of an American Family' by author John Glatt delves into the chilling true crime story of the disappearance and murders of Tylee and J.J., shedding light on the twisted lives of their mother, Lori Vallow, and stepfather, Chad Daybell. The narrative explores the horrifying acts committed by the Daybells, their cult-like beliefs, and the shocking events that led to the tragic deaths of the children and others involved. The writing style is described as informative, well-researched, and engaging, providing readers with a thorough look into the lives of Lori, Chad, and the disturbing nature of their crimes.
Lori Norene Cox was born on June 26, 1973, in Rialto, California, the fifth child of Barry and Janis Cox. Their eldest, Stacey Lynn, had been born seven years earlier, followed by two sons, Alexander...January 2022•313 pages - #8
Save:Gripping, grisly, and full of fascinating historical tidbits - this is a bite-sized slice of true crime that delivers, but may leave you wishing there was more to chew on.
The Pirate by Harold Schechter is a true crime read focusing on the life and crimes of Albert Hicks, who murdered the crew of an oyster boat in 1860 New York. The narrative delves into the trial, conviction, and eventual hanging of Hicks for piracy, offering a detailed account of the events in a documentary-like style. Schechter's storytelling is described as excellent, transporting readers to the 19th-century New York and presenting a vivid portrayal of the unfolding events.
The first oyster restaurant in New York City opened in a dingy basement on Broad Street in 1763, and from that point onward oyster cellars sprang up all over Manhattan, selling millions of “the succul...June 2018•54 pages - #9
Save:A riveting and sometimes unsettling true crime must-read for fans of criminal profiling and gritty case histories, but be prepared for a dose of the author's personality along with the facts.
'Inside the Mind of BTK' by John E. Douglas delves into the detailed truth behind the notorious serial killer BTK. The book provides a comprehensive look at the killer's background, motives, and the heinous crimes he committed. John Douglas, a pioneer in the study of serial killers, offers readers a deep insight into the mind of BTK, unraveling the mysteries surrounding his actions and providing a chilling narrative of his crimes. The writing style is described as informative, detailed, and riveting, making it a page-turner for true crime enthusiasts.
Somewhere inside my head, the murder played itself out the way it always did in my dreams. His hands were wrapped around her throat—patiently, relentlessly squeezing the life away from her. Blood vess...September 2007•365 pages - #10
Save:A darkly fascinating, easy-to-dip-into collection for true crime and forensics fans, but not the best choice for those craving in-depth scientific detail.
'The Devil's Dozen' by Katherine Ramsland is a non-fiction collection that delves into cases of serial killers from the nineteenth century to modern times. Each case is solved using cutting-edge forensics techniques, showcasing the unrelenting pursuit of justice by detectives. The book covers a variety of notorious cases, providing insights into the minds of ruthless killers and how they were brought to justice. The writing style is informative and engaging, offering in-depth detail and authoritative commentary on the cases discussed.
The book jumps through time, describing crimes helped solved with better and better forensics, showcasing the advancements in law enforcement techniques over the years. It covers a range of cases, some familiar and some lesser-known, making it a compelling read for true crime enthusiasts. While focusing on the forensic aspect of each case, the book also provides a glimpse into the personal lives of the detectives involved in solving these heinous crimes.
Philadelphia Detective Thomas Crawford arrived with an arrest warrant for both Holmes and Carrie Pitezel, but she alerted them to her missing children. The travelers had split into small groups to eva...February 2009•337 pages
