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'The Maul and the Pear Tree' by P.D. James is a historical true crime book that delves into the gruesome Ratcliffe Highway murders that shook London in 1811. The book provides a detailed and informative account of the murders, the investigation process, and the social conditions of the time. Through a mix of historical facts, analysis, and speculation, the authors reconstruct the events surrounding the killings and shed light on the primitive methods of crime detection and law enforcement in early 19th-century London. The narrative captures the atmosphere of Wapping in 1811, painting a vivid picture of the era and the challenges faced by the authorities in solving the crimes.

If you liked The Maul and the Pear Tree, here are the top 10 books to read next:

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Showing 1 - 10 of 10 
  1. #1

    The Red Parts by Maggie Nelson
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    'The Red Parts' by Maggie Nelson is a haunting and deeply personal exploration of the author's aunt Jane's murder and its impact on her family. Through a mix of memoir, poetry, and criminal investigation details, Nelson delves into the grief and loss that have lingered for decades, as well as the emotional journey of revisiting the tragedy through a reopened case. The book intertwines the story of Jane's murder with Nelson's own childhood experiences, relationships, and reflections, creating a narrative that is both gripping and emotionally expressive.

    These were the words spoken by a detective from the Michigan State Police, in a phone call to my mother, one afternoon in early November 2004. After hanging up with the detective, my mother called me ...

  2. American Predator is a terrifying read that delves into the story of Israel Keyes, a prolific, intelligent, psychopathic killer who managed to keep his existence a secret until Maureen Callahan uncovered the dirt. The book provides a chilling account of Keyes' sadistic and cunning murders, detailing how law enforcement's incompetence allowed him to evade capture for years, ultimately leading to his own suicide in jail.

    Maureen Callahan's writing style in American Predator is well-written, insightful, and gripping. She meticulously researched Keyes' crimes, compiling information from interviews, documents, and classified FBI files to create an unputdownable narrative that sheds light on the dark and disturbing world of a meticulous serial killer.

    On the side of a four-lane road, obscured by snowdrifts five feet high, sat a small coffee kiosk, its bright teal paint vibrant against the asphalt and gray big-box stores. Drivers passing by could se...

  3. #3

    Columbine by Dave Cullen
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    'Columbine' by Dave Cullen is a thorough examination of the tragic Columbine shooting in 1999. Cullen debunks popular myths surrounding the event, discredits the initial media reports, and delves into the lives of the shooters, Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold. The narrative weaves together the events leading up to the shooting, the shooting itself, and the aftermath, shedding light on the psychology of the perpetrators and the mistakes made by the investigating authorities. Cullen's writing style is compelling, detailed, and respectful towards all those involved, providing a gripping and understandable account of the significant event in American history.

    He told them he loved them. Each and every one of them. He spoke without notes but chose his words carefully. Frank DeAngelis waited out the pom-pom routines, the academic awards, and the student-made...

  4. 'The Stranger Beside Me: The Shocking Inside Story of Serial Killer Ted Bundy' by Ann Rule is a chilling nonfiction account of the strange case of Ted Bundy, told from the unique perspective of the author who knew him personally. Ann Rule's writing style grips readers with a detailed portrayal of Bundy's crimes, his relationship with her, and her gradual realization of his true nature, all while intertwining her personal experiences with the killer. delves into the complexities of Bundy's psychology, providing a fascinating insight into the mind of a charming yet monstrous serial killer.

    NO ONE GLANCED at the young man who walked out of the Trailways Bus Station in Tallahassee, Florida, at dawn on Sunday, January 8, 1978. He looked like a college student, perhaps a bit older, and he b...

  5. #5

    Mindhunter: Inside the FBI's Elite Serial Crime Unit - Mindhunter by John E. Douglas
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    "Mindhunter: Inside the FBI's Elite Serial Crime Unit" by John E. Douglas delves into the world of criminal profiling within the FBI, focusing on the psychological analysis of serial killers. It provides a detailed account of the formation and evolution of the FBI's criminal profiling unit in the 1970s, showcasing how real cases influenced popular culture portrayals of criminals like Hannibal Lecter. offers readers a dark and fascinating insight into the psychology of serial killers, exploring the methods used by the FBI to understand and catch these criminals.

    That’s what I have to do. Think of one of those nature films: a lion on the Serengeti plain in Africa. He sees this huge herd of antelope at a watering hole. But somehow —we can see it in his eyes— th...

  6. 'I'll Be Gone in the Dark: One Woman's Obsessive Search for the Golden State Killer' by Michelle McNamara is a true crime book that delves into the author's relentless pursuit to catch the Golden State Killer, a notorious serial killer and rapist. Despite her sudden death, McNamara's meticulous research and dedication are evident throughout the book, as she weaves together details of the crimes, the investigation, and her own personal obsession with the case. The narrative provides a chilling account of the killer's actions, the impact on the victims, and the tireless efforts of those seeking justice.

    The book is a blend of true crime storytelling and memoir, offering readers a glimpse into McNamara's journey to uncover the truth behind the Golden State Killer. Through her writing, McNamara humanizes the victims, sheds light on the investigative process, and showcases her unwavering determination to bring closure to a case that haunted California for decades. Despite the book being unfinished at the time of her death, the narrative captures the essence of McNamara's pursuit and the eventual arrest of the suspect, leaving readers both captivated and haunted by the story.

    AFTER PROCESSING THE HOUSE, THE POLICE SAID TO DREW WITTHUHN, “It’s yours.” The yellow tape came down; the front door closed. The impassive precision of badges at work had helped divert attention from...

  7. #7

    In Cold Blood by Truman Capote
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    'In Cold Blood' by Truman Capote is a meticulously researched and haunting account of the Clutter family murders in 1959, where Herb and Bonnie Clutter and two of their children were brutally killed by Perry Smith and Dick Hickcock. The book delves into the events leading up to the crime, the aftermath, and the impact on the small Kansas town of Holcomb. Capote's writing style is described as journalistic, factual, and methodical, evoking fear and suspense in the reader, while also providing a detailed exploration of the characters' motivations and personalities.

    Capote's narrative alternates between reporting and storytelling, providing a gripping and enthralling read that raises questions about morality, journalism, and the death penalty. The book is praised for its detailed reconstruction of the murders, the trial, and the execution of the killers, all presented in a sensitive and empathetic manner that allows the reader to understand the complexities of the case and the individuals involved.

    The village of Holcomb stands on the high wheat plains of western Kansas, a lonesome area that other Kansans call “out there.” Some seventy miles east of the Colorado border, the countryside, with its...

  8. 'Bad Blood: Secrets and Lies in a Silicon Valley Startup' by John Carreyrou is a gripping narrative that exposes the shocking levels of deceit behind the scenes at Theranos, a health startup. Through first-hand accounts, readers are taken on a rollercoaster ride, uncovering how a woman scammed numerous individuals by pushing forward a product that simply wasn't working. details the rise of Theranos in Silicon Valley and its eventual downfall when the FDA conducted a surprise inspection, revealing the company's fraudulent practices.

    Carreyrou's writing style reads like a thriller, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as they delve into the intricate web of lies, manipulation, and unethical practices within Theranos. The narrative provides a fascinating insight into the Silicon Valley culture, showcasing how individuals were misled by charismatic leaders and the allure of groundbreaking technology, ultimately leading to a colossal failure.

    The former IBM executive was in charge of bioinformatics at Theranos, a startup with a cutting-edge blood-testing system. The company had just completed its first big live demonstration for a pharmace...

  9. "The Devil in the White City" by Erik Larson delves into two parallel stories set during the 1893 Chicago World's Fair. One storyline follows the ambitious architect Daniel Burnham as he strives to create the greatest World's Fair ever seen, while the other narrative focuses on Dr. H.H. Holmes, who becomes the first mass murderer in U.S. history. intricately weaves together the challenges of organizing the fair with the chilling crimes committed by Holmes, creating a captivating blend of history and true crime. Readers are taken on a journey through the bustling city of Chicago, where the grandeur of the fair contrasts with the darkness of Holmes' actions, all presented in a narrative that reads like a suspense novel.

    THE DATE WAS APRIL 14, 1912, a sinister day in maritime history, but of course the man in suite 63–65, shelter deck C, did not yet know it. What he did know was that his foot hurt badly, more than he ...

  10. 'Killers of the Flower Moon: The Osage Murders and the Birth of the FBI' by David Grann delves into the disturbing history of the Osage tribe in Oklahoma, who were targeted for their wealth derived from oil reserves on their land. As mysterious deaths plague the tribe, the narrative uncovers a vast conspiracy orchestrated by local whites to steal the tribal wealth. The involvement of the newly formed FBI, led by ex Texas rangers, sheds light on the depths of corruption and greed that characterized this dark period in American history. intricately weaves together the detailed accounts of murders, investigations, and the systematic exploitation of the Osage people, leaving readers shocked by the extent of institutional evil and racial injustice.

    Grann's storytelling skillfully intertwines the historical events with a gripping narrative, highlighting the horrors faced by the Osage tribe and the relentless pursuit of justice by the FBI agents. The detailed research and investigative reporting provide a comprehensive understanding of the crimes committed against the Osage people, while also shedding light on the limitations of the rule of law during that era. not only uncovers a forgotten chapter of American history but also serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring presence of greed, corruption, and racial discrimination in society.

    In April, millions of tiny flowers spread over the blackjack hills and vast prairies in the Osage territory of Oklahoma. There are Johnny-jump-ups and spring beauties and little bluets. The Osage writ...

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