Looking for a thrill? Look no further than the world of serial killers!
These murderers have captured our imaginations for years, and there's something about their stories that just draws us in.
In this blog post, we'll take a look at some of the horrifying serial killer stories out there. Whether you're a fan of true crime or just enjoy a good thriller, these books are sure to get your heart racing!
If you're looking for a new book to read, then look no further—we've got you covered. With so many great options to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect book for you.
Check out our blog post on notorious serial killers now and find your next read!
How I Choose
I’ve combed through thousands of reviews to determine which books are worthy enough for consideration. I only add the books that were mentioned at least twice on my list, then pick those who made an impression on their readers by being among this genre's best sellers! Here are the top five best serial killer books of all time!
Why I Love It!
The New York Times bestseller Erik Larsen begins by describing two major events that were unique and impressive. They both needed careful planning and were very ambitious. The architectural construction for these events was challenging for everyone involved.
What You Should Know
When the Chicago World’s Fair opened in 1893, it became an instant hit with visitors from all over America and even Europe. But there was one man that took advantage of this event Henry Holmes - also known as "the King of killing" for his plethora of serial crimes during that time period!
While many people were fascinated by him due to what they believed was the sheer genius behind each murder scheme; there are others who believe he should have been convicted long ago because DNA testing finally proves guilt after years' worth of doubt has clouded our judgment ever since.
Why I Love It!
The darkness and light in this book fascinated me. It’s an exploration into two minds, one sick with the disorder while the other is determined to find answers no matter what it takes--it really captivated my attention!
What You Should Know
You're probably thinking, "not another true crime book."
I know, I thought the same thing at first. But trust me, this is not your average true-crime novel. It's a story about how one woman became obsessed with an unsolved case (Golden State Killer) and learned more about herself in the process.
If you're looking for a page-turning mystery that's also funny, then you'll love this book. It's perfect for fans of detective stories and true crime novels alike.
Why I Love It!
Ann Rule is a crime novelist who has been writing for years. Her work allows her to convey the truth in an engaging way, using layman-friendly language while still catering to those with professional know-how of law enforcement and investigation techniques
I followed along easily enough as she outlined each scene; every turn led me further into this mystery that had become so fascinating! The author's tone became more excited than before. True-crime writer Ann's rule made sure everything came together seamlessly by combining facts into a life story.
What You Should Know
Ann rule's writing is clear and engaging, giving us a fresh perspective on this well-known criminal (Ted Bundy). She shows that although he may have seemed charming or kind at times -- which were just illusions projected by an intelligent psycho-- there was never any real warmth behind the facade.
The author uses creative language while still being accurate so readers will stay engaged throughout their reading experience.
Why I Love It!
Sometimes do you feel like the true story of a crime scene can always be so depressing and make you feel like a terrible person?
You're not alone! Most people don't enjoy reading about gruesome murders, but that doesn't mean you should miss out on this incredible book.
Helter Skelter is different than other true crime books because it's written by Vincent Bugliosi, the prosecutor who successfully convicted Charles Manson of these heinous crimes.
This book is packed with new information (witness accounts and physical evidence) about Charles Manson and provides an interesting perspective on one of the most famous murder cases in history.
What You Should Know
Murder is a terrible thing, and it's fascinating to read about all the work that goes into solving them.
It's hard to believe that people can do something so terrible, but it's even harder to understand why.
This captivating book tells the story of Mr. Bugliosi's investigation into the Manson Murders, and how he was able to successfully obtain death penalty convictions. If you're looking for a better understanding of murders and their motives, then this is the book for you.
Why I Love It!
I don't know about you, but I get really into true story murder mysteries. I love trying to solve the crime before the detective does.
But sometimes it's just so frustrating when the detective doesn't even include all the evidence in their report! It's like they're purposely trying to make it harder for us to solve the crime.
Zodiac is different. It's a book about an unsolved murder case, written by the detective who worked on it. So you know that you're getting all the information that he has.
It's also incredibly detailed and well-researched. I felt like I was right there with him, trying to solve the case. If you're looking different. This murder mystery novel includes every scrap of evidence that was ever collected by police, so you can feel like you're really involved in solving the case yourself.
What You Should Know
The Zodiac Killer was a serial killer who operated in the San Francisco Bay Area from December 1968 to October 1969. To this day, His identity remains a mystery to this day.
The Zodiac Killer has remained America's most notorious and prolific serial killer for over 50 years. Despite numerous investigations and thousands of tips, no hard evidence has ever been found to conclusively identify him. Robert Graysmith (reporter from the San Francisco Chronicle) shared lots of factual information that was not available to the public.
This detailed account of the case provides great insight into the mind of the type of person the Zodiac could be. It also includes possible suspects in the case although they are under alias names - their real names can be found online.
Honorable Mentions
Serial killer types of books are a popular topic for entertainment, but what about the other side of things? There's more than just your average story here.
There may be some really creative and interesting fiction and non-fiction works out there that we haven't heard yet! Here are more books that I felt deserves a lil praise.
Perfume
This is a story of one man's obsession with capturing the perfect scent. He becomes obsessed to create “the ultimate perfume” and murders many people in order for him or her (or them) to get what they want out of their lives: The smells that make everything else worth living for
In the 18th century France, Jean-Baptiste Grenouille was born an odor eater who could memorize any smell just by breathing deeply on it once--a talent given only a few humans ever manage to accomplish despite how much time some spend trying; but even worse than having such amazing senses are these: the ability to identify any ingredient in any perfume, and an utter lack of scent himself.
This makes him both a freak and an outcast in society, but he is content as long as he can continue to smell the world around him. However, when Grenouille meets a young woman who smells like nothing he's ever smelled before--pure innocence and beauty--he becomes obsessed with creating the perfect perfume that will make him smell like her. And in order to do so, he must first kill her and distill her scent.
The Monster of Florence
The book is an expose on how Italy's judicial system handles cases involving crime, corruption, and incompetent officers. The author uses his personal experience as well to show what happens when you don't follow a procedure or use good judgment in law enforcement.
Which can result in a myriad of problems for everyone involved--from victims' families all way up to government officials who lose faith in their own countrymen due to the lack of competence displayed during investigation stages.
Mindhunter
This amazing book details the struggles of a real-life hero named John Douglas who has been instrumental in capturing many criminals, including some notorious killers. This book highlights how the BAU got started.
I found this novel to be so engaging because it combines both crimefighting adventures as well as the personal tragedy that occurred during his youth, which shaped him into what he became later on-a successful police officer with an eye for catching killers wherever they may hide!
American predator
A fascinating true crime story of an Alaskan serial killer who traveled all over America, hiding "kill kits" and waiting patiently for years to return home so he could carry out murders.
He took pleasure in frustrating law enforcement by not following any real MO; his only hobby was killing people just because it thrilled him--for the thrill alone!
This book documents how FBI experts analyzed clues left behind at crime scenes as well as negotiations with confessed killers like Israel Keyes - but most importantly-it shows what life would be like if you were dealt a bad hand: being trapped inside your own mind while trying desperately hard do anything else besides remembering why locking yourself away is best for everyone.
Killers of the Flower Moon
The Osage Indians of Oklahoma owned a great deal of land due to their headright system. This was a grant given out by Britain in North America which allowed settlers and made them very wealthy because the oil could be found underneath this property, leading to too much wealth for one person or small tribe's holding on these frontier days before automobiles changed everything forever with their mass production capabilities.
The story begins when white citizens feel threatened from all sides-by Indian tribesmen who wanted more territory; cotton farmers seeking higher crop prices through protectionism policies such as subsidies & tariffs meant only other countries would buy our provoking further envy; and big-city businessmen who saw the potential for oil to make them very rich as well.
These men began a systematic terror campaign against Osage Indians, using intimidation tactics such as cross burnings on their property lines to make it clear they were not welcome in "white society."
Eventually, they turned to more deadly methods such as poisoning water wells and outright murder to obtain the land and mineral rights of the Osage. This is a truly fascinating true crime story in american history, that shows how greed can corrupt even the most upstanding citizens when they feel their way of life is threatened.
The Next Book For You!
So there you have it - my list of the top 5 serial killer novels out there. If you're looking for a thrilling read, then any of these titles will definitely deliver. Just remember, these are real people who have committed real crimes. so don't get too caught up in the fiction.
Happy reading!
Serial Killer FAQs
Which books are the best to read in this category? It's hard to know because of all those other titles out there. Luckily for you, I've compiled a list of frequently asked questions with answers so that your search will be easy!
What book do most serial killers read?
There's no one answer to this question since there's no one type of serial killer. However, many experts believe that reading about murder and violence may give some killers ideas or fantasies about committing murder themselves.
In fact, some killers have even said that they were inspired to kill after reading certain books or watching certain movies. That said, it's impossible to say for sure which book is the most popular among real-life serial killers.
Some of the most commonly cited titles include Psycho by Robert Bloch, The Silence of the Lambs by Thomas Harris, and American Psycho by Bret Easton Ellis.
Who writes the top serial killer books?
There are so many fantastic books out there, that it's hard to choose just one author. But if I had to narrow it down, I would have to say that Thomas Harris is a master at writing suspenseful, dark thrillers. His books about Hannibal Lecter are legendary, and I'm always eagerly awaiting his next release.
Other great authors who write about serial killers include Jeffrey Deaver, James Patterson, and Karin Slaughter. They never fail to keep me on the edge of my seat!
What book do serial killers like?
This is a great question and one that I’m sure many people are curious about. While there is no definitive answer, there are certainly some popular choices among serial killers.
One frequent choice is the Bible. Many killers believe that they are doing God’s work, or that they are following in His footsteps.
The Bible provides them with a justification for their actions and gives them a sense of purpose. Additionally, there are many passages in the Bible that can be interpreted to condone murder and violence.
Another popular book among serial murderers is The Anarchist Cookbook. This book provides detailed instructions on how to make bombs and other weapons, as well as how to commit various criminal acts. It is believed that the Unabomber, Ted Kaczynski, used this book as a guide when he was constructing his bombs.
Who is the top 5 serial killers?
1. Ted Bundy - A graduate of the University of Washington, Ted Bundy was one of the most notorious in U.S. history. He confessed to a killing spree of 30 women, though the true number is suspected to be much higher.
2. Jack the Ripper - An unidentified serial killer who terrorized London in 1888, Jack the Ripper is believed to have killed as many as five women.
3. John Wayne Gacy - John Wayne Gacy was America's Most Prolific Serial Killer at the time, Jacky "The Killer Clown" Gacy was a murderer who claimed to have killed upwards of 50 victims. He earned this moniker due to his preference for sacrificing young men and boys in dark circumstances, often entering their homes without permission or waking them up before killing him on-site (sometimes both).
4. Jeffrey Dahmer - young serial killer convicted of murdering 17 young men and boys, Dahmer was infamous for his way of killing his victims.
5. The Zodiac Killer- The killings by this hate-filled killer happened back in the 1960s, but he claims there are still more people who have died at his hands - somewhere between 37 and 50!
The Green River Killer is definitely a criminal mastermind. It may not be on the top list of killers but this case in 1982 became unsolved for a little over a decade.
This was a shocking story due to Sheriff David Reichart who was relentless in his pursuit of finding the killer. His police investigation was successful after many years of seeking clues. This is why this chilling story is worth mentioning.
What is Ted Bundy's favorite book?
There's no definitive answer to this question, as Ted Bundy was known to be a voracious reader and had a wide range of interests. However, one book that is often mentioned as being among his favorites is Dale Carnegie's "How to Win Friends and Influence People."
Did any serial killers write books?
Yes, some of them have written books. For example, Theodore Robert Bundy, America's most notorious killer, wrote a memoir while on death row.
In Bundy's book, he details his early childhood followed by his first kill in 1974. He transferred to UW Seattle the following year to continue his education and killing spree. In 1977, he was captured and given a 3-year prison sentence for aggravated assault and burglary. After about a year of being imprisoned, he escaped and made his way to Tallahassee where he resumed his murderous ways; however, he was eventually apprehended and put to death in 1989.
While it's not unusual for people to be interested in reading about serial murderers (there are even university courses on the topic), it's important to remember that these are real people who have committed horrific crimes. If you're looking for a light and easy read, then books about murder are probably not for you. However, if you're interested in exploring the dark side of evil human nature, then there are some great choices out there for you.
Was the Monster of Florence ever found?
No, the Monster of Florence was never found. There have been multiple suspects over the years, but no definitive proof has ever been found.
The Monster of Florence is a murderer who operated in and around the city of Florence, Italy, from 1968 to 1985. He was known to murder couples in parked cars using a knife or gun. To date, no definitive proof has ever been found as to his identity or whereabouts.
Over the years, there have been numerous suspects - including Stefano Bontade and Salvatore Lo Bianco - but no one has ever been conclusively linked to the crimes.
What is the most popular true-crime story?
The most popular true-crime story in American history is undoubtedly the case of O.J. Simpson. The trial captivated the nation for months and spawned dozens of books, television shows, and movies. Even today, the story remains a topic of fascination for many people.
What are the best crime fiction books?
There are a ton of great crime fiction books out there, so it's tough to narrow it down to just a few. However, here are three that really stand out:
1. "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo" by Stieg Larsson
This book has it all - suspense, mystery, and even a bit of romance. It's the perfect read for anyone who loves detective stories.
2. "Gone Girl" by Gillian Flynn
If you're looking for a truly suspenseful read, look no further than "Gone Girl." This book will keep you guessing until the very end.
3. "Angels and Demons" by Dan Brown
Another great thriller from the master of suspense, Dan Brown. "Angels and Demons" is a must-read for anyone who loves a good conspiracy theory.