Here is a list of some of the best true crime books ever written.

The Stranger Besides Me

A classic of true crime genre, this book recounts the life and crimes of notorious serial killer Ted Bundy. Written by Ann Rule, this book offers a unique perspective on Ted Bundy as the writer was a close friend to Bundy.

Rule, who was an aspiring crime writer at the time, worked alongside Bundy at a crisis hotline center in Seattle, Washington, in the early 1970s. They became friends, and Rule had no idea that the charming and seemingly compassionate man she knew was capable of such heinous crimes.

As the book unfolds, Rule chronicles Bundy’s life, his descent into serial murder, his arrest, trials, and eventual execution in 1989. What makes “The Stranger Beside Me” particularly compelling is Rule’s struggle to reconcile her friendly, charismatic coworker with the brutal nature of the crimes he was accused of. The book delves into Bundy’s background, his method of luring female victims, and his ability to evade capture for years, partly due to his charm and intelligence.

Rule uses her personal insights and experiences with Bundy to provide a detailed account of his psychological profile, offering readers a unique glimpse into the mind of a serial killer. She also covers the investigation, the media frenzy surrounding Bundy’s trials, and the impact of his crimes on the victims’ families and society at large.

“The Stranger Beside Me” is not just a biography of Ted Bundy; it’s also a memoir of Ann Rule’s own journey from being Bundy’s friend to accepting the horrifying truth about him. The book has been updated several times to include new information discovered after Bundy’s death, making it a comprehensive and chilling account of one of the most complex figures in criminal history.

In Cold Blood

Another classic of true crime genre, Truman Capote’s In Cold Blood spawn a entire genre of non-fiction writing that have become so popular since then.

The book chronicles the 1959 murders of four members of the Clutter family in the small farming community of Holcomb, Kansas.

The narrative begins with a detailed portrayal of the Clutter family’s life, depicting them as respected and prosperous members of their community. The family consisted of Herbert Clutter, a successful farmer; his wife Bonnie; and their children, Nancy and Kenyon. Their seemingly idyllic life comes to a brutal end when they are murdered in their home, with no apparent motive.

Capote then shifts focus to the murderers, Richard “Dick” Hickock and Perry Smith, tracing their backgrounds, the planning and execution of the crime, and their subsequent flight from the law. Through extensive research and interviews, Capote offers deep psychological insights into both killers, particularly Smith, with whom he developed a complex relationship during the time of writing the book.

The narrative also covers the investigation led by Kansas Bureau of Investigation detective Alvin Dewey, the arrest of Hickock and Smith, their trial, and eventual execution. Capote delves into the effects of the crime on the community, the obsession with understanding the murderers’ motives, and the broader themes of the American criminal justice system and the death penalty.

“In Cold Blood” is notable for its meticulous fact-checking, vivid prose, and the author’s ability to weave a gripping story out of real events. Capote’s immersive research and personal involvement with the case and the murderers themselves sparked debate about the ethics of journalism and the true crime genre. The book remains a landmark work, both for its literary merit and for its profound impact on how stories of crime are told.

The Executioner’s Song

“The Executioner’s Song” is a Pulitzer Prize-winning book by Norman Mailer, published in 1979. It is considered one of the first examples of the non-fiction novel genre, blending journalistic research with the narrative style of fiction to tell the true story of Gary Gilmore, a convicted murderer who fought for his own execution.

The book is divided into two main parts: “Western Voices” and “Eastern Voices.” The first part, “Western Voices,” focuses on Gilmore’s early life, his release from prison in 1976 after serving time for armed robbery, and his attempt to reintegrate into society in Utah. Despite intentions to reform, Gilmore quickly returns to a life of crime, culminating in the murder of two men in two separate incidents. This section delves into Gilmore’s relationships, particularly with Nicole Baker, a teenage single mother with whom he becomes romantically involved, and his struggles with substance abuse and violence.

“Eastern Voices” covers Gilmore’s trial, conviction, and the aftermath, including his decision to refuse any appeals of his death sentence, effectively choosing to be executed rather than spend the rest of his life in prison. This part of the book also explores the national media frenzy and legal battles that ensued over Gilmore’s wish to die, touching on broader themes of justice, capital punishment, and the American legal system. Gilmore’s execution by firing squad in January 1977 marked the first use of the death penalty in the United States in ten years, reigniting a nationwide debate on the ethics and efficacy of capital punishment.

Mailer’s exhaustive research, including interviews with those who knew Gilmore, court documents, and media reports, allows him to provide a comprehensive and multifaceted portrayal of Gilmore’s life and death. “The Executioner’s Song” is notable for its detailed character studies, deep exploration of American culture and the justice system, and its unflinching examination of the complexities surrounding the death penalty. The book’s impact is significant, offering a poignant, critical look at crime, punishment, and the human condition.

Helter Skelter

“Helter Skelter: The True Story of the Manson Murders” is a true crime book written by Vincent Bugliosi, who was the lead prosecutor in the Manson trial, and Curt Gentry. First published in 1974, the book provides a detailed account of the investigation, trial, and convictions of Charles Manson and his followers, who were responsible for a series of brutal murders in Los Angeles in 1969, including the infamous Tate-LaBianca killings.

The book’s title, “Helter Skelter,” refers to Manson’s apocalyptic vision of an impending race war, which he believed was prophesized in The Beatles’ song of the same name. Manson intended for the murders to act as the catalyst for this war, planning to blame the killings on Black militants to heighten racial tensions.

Bugliosi offers a comprehensive narrative that begins with the discovery of the murder scenes, detailing the investigation that led to the identification and arrest of Manson and his followers. Through meticulous research and firsthand insights, the book chronicles the bizarre and horrifying beliefs and motivations that drove Manson and his “family” to commit such heinous crimes.

The narrative goes on to describe the trial, providing a gripping account of the legal proceedings and the challenges faced by the prosecution in presenting the complex case to the jury. Bugliosi’s strategic legal maneuvers and his ability to connect Manson to the murders, despite his not being present at the crime scenes, are highlighted as key factors in securing convictions.

“Helter Skelter” is not just a true crime narrative; it is also an exploration of Manson’s manipulative charisma, the vulnerability of his followers, and the cultural and societal factors that allowed such a figure to emerge and influence others to commit murder. The book has been praised for its thoroughness, attention to detail, and the ability to convey the sheer absurdity and horror of the Manson murders.

Since its publication, “Helter Skelter” has become a seminal work in the true crime genre, offering one of the most exhaustive and chilling accounts of one of the most notorious criminal cases in American history.

Green River, Running Red

“Green River, Running Red: The Real Story of the Green River Killer” is a true crime book by Ann Rule, published in 2004. The book delves into the horrifying spree of the Green River Killer, who is responsible for the deaths of dozens of women in the 1980s and 1990s, making it one of the longest and most complex serial murder cases in U.S. history. The killer, Gary Ridgway, was named after the Green River in Washington state, where the first bodies were discovered.

Rule, a former police officer and an acclaimed true crime writer, meticulously chronicles the investigation into the murders, the lives of the victims, and the eventual capture of Ridgway. She offers a compassionate and detailed look at the young women, many of whom were prostitutes or runaways, whose lives were brutally cut short. Rule’s narrative pays tribute to their memory, emphasizing their humanity and the tragedy of their deaths rather than allowing them to be defined by the way they were killed.

The book also provides an in-depth exploration of the painstaking detective work that went into solving the case. For two decades, the killer eluded law enforcement, partly due to the difficulties in investigating crimes involving victims who lived on the margins of society. Rule describes the breakthroughs in forensic science, particularly DNA analysis, which ultimately led to Ridgway’s arrest in 2001. She delves into Ridgway’s background, psychology, and motives, painting a chilling portrait of a man who was able to lead a seemingly normal life while committing horrific crimes.

“Green River, Running Red” stands out for its empathetic portrayal of the victims and its thorough examination of the law enforcement efforts to bring their killer to justice. Rule’s compelling narrative sheds light on the dark reality of serial murder and the enduring impact on the victims’ families and the community. The book is a testament to the complexity of the human psyche and the profound sadness of lives lost too soon.

Zodiac

“Zodiac: The Shocking True Story of the Hunt for the Nation’s Most Elusive Serial Killer” is a true crime book by Robert Graysmith, first published in 1986. The book chronicles the author’s obsession with the unsolved Zodiac killer case, who terrorized the San Francisco Bay Area in the late 1960s and early 1970s.

Graysmith, who was a cartoonist at the San Francisco Chronicle when the Zodiac’s cryptic letters were sent to the newspaper, provides an in-depth account of the case. The Zodiac killer was known for his taunting letters to the police and newspapers, which included ciphers that he claimed would reveal his identity if solved. Despite the efforts of journalists, amateur and professional cryptographers, and law enforcement, only one of the four main ciphers was definitively solved, and the killer’s identity remains unknown.

The book details the murders attributed to the Zodiac, his communications with the press, and the intense investigation that followed. Graysmith introduces various suspects who were considered throughout the years, and he narrates his own journey as he becomes deeply involved in attempting to solve the case.

“Zodiac” offers a comprehensive look at the known facts of the case, the impact on the victims and their families, and the cultural fascination with the Zodiac killer. Graysmith’s account is often credited with keeping public interest in the case alive and is recognized for its contribution to the true crime genre. The book was later adapted into a 2007 film directed by David Fincher.

Small Sacrifices

“Small Sacrifices” is a true crime book by Ann Rule, published in 1987, that tells the harrowing story of Diane Downs and the chilling crime she committed against her own children. On a quiet night in 1983, Downs arrived at a hospital in Springfield, Oregon, with her three gravely wounded children in the car. She claimed a strange man had attempted to carjack her and had shot the children. However, the evidence did not support her story.

As the investigation unfolded, it became clear that Downs’ account of the events was fraught with inconsistencies. The investigators, along with Rule’s meticulous recounting, revealed a more sinister reality: Diane Downs had shot her three children, one of whom died, in order to free herself from the responsibilities of motherhood and to pursue a romantic relationship with a man who did not want children.

Rule’s narrative delves into Downs’ background, her personality, and the events leading up to the crime. It details the investigation, the trial, and the psychological aspects of Diane Downs’ life, including her behavior after the incident, which was marked by a disturbing lack of concern for her children.

“Small Sacrifices” is notable for its in-depth analysis of Downs’ psyche and the emotional impact of the crime on all involved. Rule’s work is acclaimed for its sensitivity in handling the victims’ stories and its thorough examination of the complexities of maternal filicide. The book stands out as a chilling exploration of the depths of human depravity and the devastating consequences of a mother’s betrayal.

Lust Killer

“Lust Killer,” written by Ann Rule under the pseudonym Andy Stack, is a true crime book that delves into the case of Jerome Brudos, a serial killer who terrorized Oregon in the late 1960s. Brudos had a fetish for women’s shoes from a young age, which later developed into violent fantasies and eventually escalated into murder.

The book outlines Brudos’s progression from a troubled child with a shoe fetish to a sadistic murderer. His crimes included kidnapping, torturing, and killing several women, and keeping trophies from his victims, such as a pair of high heels, which he would wear in his garage where he committed some of his crimes.

Rule provides a comprehensive look at the investigation that led to Brudos’s arrest. She discusses the meticulous police work that uncovered the horrifying extent of his crimes, as well as the psychological evaluation that offered insights into his disturbing behavior.

“Lust Killer” is a chilling account of how Brudos’s deceptively ordinary life as a husband and father masked a dark and violent inner world. Rule’s narrative brings to light the human capacity for brutality and the importance of diligent detective work in bringing a murderer to justice. The book is a stark reminder of the dangers posed by those who indulge in their most depraved impulses.

The Journalist and the Murderer

“The Journalist and the Murderer” is a nonfiction book by Janet Malcolm, published in 1990. The book is a study of the ethical complexities of journalism and starts with the famous line: “Every journalist who is not too stupid or too full of himself to notice what is going on knows that what he does is morally indefensible.”

The work is centered around the relationship between journalist Joe McGinniss and convicted murderer Jeffrey MacDonald. MacDonald, a former Green Beret and doctor, was convicted for the murders of his pregnant wife and two daughters in 1979. He contacted McGinniss to write a book about his trial, granting him extensive access to his legal defense and personal life, with the expectation that McGinniss would argue his innocence.

However, the resulting book, “Fatal Vision,” portrayed MacDonald as a sociopathic killer. This led to MacDonald suing McGinniss for breach of contract and fraud, feeling betrayed by McGinniss’ portrayal of him after he had trusted the journalist to tell his side of the story.

Malcolm’s book examines the moral ambiguities of the relationship between journalists and their subjects. She argues that journalists often betray their subjects’ trust by presenting them in a light that serves the story they want to tell, regardless of the subjects’ expectations. “The Journalist and the Murderer” is a thought-provoking exploration of journalistic ethics, the nature of betrayal, and the complex interplay between writers and their subjects. It has sparked considerable debate and reflection on the responsibilities of journalists in their quest for the story.

The Onion Field

“The Onion Field” is a nonfiction book by Joseph Wambaugh, published in 1973, that narrates the true story of a harrowing incident that occurred on March 9, 1963, involving two Los Angeles police officers, Ian Campbell and Karl Hettinger. The book is named after an onion field near Bakersfield, California, where the critical events of the story take place.

The narrative begins with a routine night patrol that turns disastrous when Campbell and Hettinger are kidnapped by two criminals, Gregory Powell and Jimmy Lee Smith, during a traffic stop. The officers are taken to an onion field, where Powell shoots and kills Campbell. Hettinger manages to escape, running for miles to find help.

The book then delves into the aftermath of the event, including the intense manhunt for the perpetrators, their capture, trial, and the subsequent life sentences they received. Wambaugh also explores the psychological trauma that Hettinger endured, the survivor’s guilt, the scrutiny he faced from the LAPD, and the public for failing to prevent his partner’s death, and his eventual forced resignation from the police force.

“The Onion Field” is as much a crime story as it is a psychological study of the impact of such a traumatic event on those involved, including the lasting effects on Hettinger and the criminal justice system. Wambaugh’s background as an LAPD officer adds a layer of authenticity and insight to his account, making it a seminal work in the true crime genre. The book was later adapted into a feature film released in 1979.

The Blooding

“The Blooding” is a non-fiction book by Joseph Wambaugh, published in 1989, that chronicles a groundbreaking case in forensic science. The book details the investigation into a series of brutal rapes and murders in the English villages of Narborough and Enderby during the mid-1980s.

The central narrative focuses on the murder of two young women, Lynda Mann and Dawn Ashworth, and the subsequent police investigation. Initially, a local teenager named Richard Buckland confessed to one of the murders but not the other, leading to a perplexing situation for the investigators.

Wambaugh describes how Detective David Baker, leading the investigation, turned to a relatively untested technique at the time: DNA fingerprinting. With the help of geneticist Alec Jeffreys, who had developed DNA profiling, the police conducted a mass screening of over 4,000 local men, the first exercise of its kind in the world, to find a match for the DNA evidence found at the crime scenes.

The book explores the tension and challenges of the investigation, the innovative use of DNA typing, and the impact of the technology that would revolutionize forensic investigations. The title “The Blooding” refers to the process of collecting blood samples for DNA testing.

Eventually, the blood screening led to the arrest and conviction of Colin Pitchfork, the first person ever to be caught and convicted based on DNA profiling evidence. Wambaugh’s account is not just a true crime story but also a milestone in the history of criminal investigation, showcasing the dawn of a new era in solving crimes. “The Blooding” is celebrated for its detailed reporting, suspenseful storytelling, and its focus on a pivotal moment in forensic science.

Victim – The Other Side of Murder

“Victim: The Other Side of Murder” is a non-fiction book by Gary Kinder, published in 1982. The book explores the aftermath of one of the most brutal mass shootings in American history at the time, which took place in a Hi-Fi Shop in Ogden, Utah, in 1974.

The narrative focuses not on the criminals or the crime itself, but on the victims and their families, offering a unique perspective on the effects of violent crime. Kinder delves into the harrowing ordeal of the victims who were held hostage, tortured, and forced to endure unimaginable acts, including the forced ingestion of liquid Drano.

Two of the victims, Stanley Walker and Michelle Ansley, were killed during the robbery, while other victims, including Orren Walker and Cortney Naisbitt, survived despite severe injuries and trauma. The book details the survivors’ grueling recovery, the emotional and physical scars left by the crime, and their struggles with the justice system and personal grief.

Kinder’s account also covers the trial of the perpetrators, Dale Pierre and William Andrews, their motivations, and the community’s reaction to the crime. However, the focus remains on the profound impact of the crime on the victims and their path to healing and justice.

“Victim: The Other Side of Murder” is praised for its sensitive and humanizing portrayal of the victims, shifting the true crime narrative away from the perpetrators and onto the often-overlooked experiences of the survivors and the suffering of those who lost loved ones. The book is considered a poignant and important work in the true crime genre.

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