In the world of true crime, there are a few stand-out novels that everyone should read. These books are classics for a reason – they offer an in-depth look at some of the most famous crimes in history. From serial killers to political assassinations, these novels have it all. If you’re interested in true crime, you need to check out these must-read novels!
What Are Crime Stories, And Why Do We Love Them?
Crime stories have been around since the days of Homer. They are a way to vicariously experience the thrill of the hunt, the excitement of the chase, and the suspense of a life-or-death situation. We love crime stories because they allow us to explore our darkest fears and fantasies in a safe and controlled environment. They are a way to explore the dark side of human nature without risking our safety.
What Are The Best True Crime Novels?
There are many great true crime novels, but here are some of the most iconic collections to check:
- In Cold Blood
Truman Capote is one of the most famous and well-known true crime novels ever written. It tells the story of the murders of a Kansas farmer and his family. It weaves together the story of the killers and their victims, painting a picture of small-town America and its dark underbelly.
- The Executioner’s Song
By Norman Mailer is another classic true-crime novel. It tells the story of Gary Gilmore, who was executed for murder in 1977. The book takes an in-depth look at Gilmore’s life and his crimes, as well as the events leading up to his execution.
- The Stranger Beside Me
By Ann Rule is the story of serial killer Ted Bundy, one of America’s most notorious murderers. In this novel, Rule tells how she met Bundy and eventually came to realize that he was a killer. The story will take you on a roller coaster ride of emotions, from fear to fascination.
- The Silence of the Lambs
By Thomas Harris is the story of Hannibal Lecter, one of the most chilling and iconic villains in crime fiction. The novel follows FBI trainee Clarice Starling as she attempts to track down Lecter, who has escaped from prison. Along the way, she must face off against some of the most dangerous criminals in the country.
- Killing Time
Caleb Carr is set in New York City during the early 1990s. It tells the story of a series of brutal murders that have rocked the city and left its inhabitants terrified. The novel follows crime reporter Bill Smith as he tries to track down the killer, only to find that the police are not interested in solving the case.
- The Preppy Murder
Michele Landsberg is a non-fiction account of one of America’s most high-profile murder cases. In 1986, 18-year-old Robert Chambers killed 15-year-old Jennifer Levin in New York City’s Central Park. The case made national headlines and divided the city into two camps: those who believed that Chambers was innocent and those who thought he was a cold-blooded killer.
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- The Night Stalker
By Philip Carlo is the true story of Richard Ramirez, one of America’s most notorious serial killers. Ramirez was known for his brutal crimes, including rape, murder, and robbery. This book tells the story of his life and his reign of terror in Los Angeles. The story will take you inside the mind of a serial killer and leave you terrified.
- The Boston Strangler
By Gerold Frank is a true-crime novel about the infamous Boston Strangler, who terrorized the city in the early 1960s. The book tells the story of Albert DeSalvo, who confessed to being the Strangler and the detectives who hunted him down. It is a harrowing account of one of America’s most notorious serial killers.
- Midnight In Mexico: A Reporter’s Journey Into The Country’s Unknown
By Alfredo Corchado is the story of a journalist who journeys to uncover the secrets of Mexico’s drug cartels. Along the way, he discovers that the line between good and evil is blurred and that nothing is as it seems. This book will take you on a dark and dangerous journey into the heart of Mexico’s underworld.
- The Black Dahlia
James Ellroy is the story of one of America’s most famous unsolved murders. In 1947, 22-year-old Elizabeth Short was found brutally murdered in Los Angeles. The case has fascinated and terrified people for years, and many theories have been put forth about who killed her and why. This book tells the story of Short’s life and death, as well as the investigation into her murder.
- I’ll Be Gone In The Dark: A Woman’s Search For The Golden State Killer
Michelle McNamara is a non-fiction account of the hunt for the Golden State Killer, a serial killer who terrorized California in the 1970s and 1980s. McNamara was obsessed with catching the killer and spent years researching the case. This book tells the story of her life and her quest to find the killer. It is a compelling and terrifying read.
- Lost Girls: An Unsolved American Mystery
By Robert Kolker is a non-fiction account of the murders of five prostitutes in Long Island, New York. The case made national headlines and left the community terrified. Kolker investigates the case and tries to piece together what happened to these women. This book is a heartbreaking look at the lives of these victims and the people who loved them.
- The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo
Stieg Larsson is a crime thriller about a journalist who teams up with a hacker to solve a cold case. The case in question is the disappearance of Harriet Vanger, which occurred over 40 years ago. This book is an addictive and suspenseful read that will keep you glued to the pages.
Final Words
There are plenty of titles to choose from for true crime novels. If you’re looking for a chilling and suspenseful read, then these books are for you. So, if you’re in the mood for something dark and twisted, then check out one of these titles today. You won’t regret it!