True Crime Genre: Books & Audiobooks

The Stranger Beside Me is one of the most famous true crime books of all time, written by one of the most prolific true crime writers, Ann Rule. It gives a fascinating account of Rule’s personal relationship with serial killer Ted Bundy, from when she worked with him at a call center before his crimes came to light through to their correspondence when he was in prison. Aside from her personal encounters, she also provides background information on Bundy and discusses his many crimes. A serious page turner, this resource is most useful to those seeking a first-person look into the life and mind of a serial killer. Click on the title to be redirected to the BPL record.

This bestselling book details Michelle McNamara’s investigation and search for the Golden State Killer, a serial rapist and murderer active in 1970s and ‘80s California who, partly thanks to the author’s work, was finally caught in April 2018. While the book is account of her obsession and experience investigating the case, it also is an extremely in-depth and fascinating examination of the Golden State Killer on several levels. This, like Rule’s book, would be most appealing to readers who enjoy personal accounts mixed with factual details. Click on the title to be redirected to the BPL record.

This book offers an account of the true investigation into a still-active serial murderer in Long Island. Examining the facts of the murders of five women, all of whom were sex workers who advertised online, the author speaks with the victims’ friends and families and immerses himself in the community in order to gain a deep understand of these crimes, the victims, and the mind of the person who could have committed them. This resource would be most appealing to those who have an interest in unsolved cases, serial killers at-large, or more recent cases. Click on the title to be redirected to the BPL record.