5 True Crime Books That Will Keep You On The Edge Of Your Seat
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True crime books have been popular for decades, captivating readers with their gripping stories of real-life crimes.
These books offer a unique and often chilling perspective on the darkest corners of society, exploring the motives and actions of individuals who have committed heinous crimes. For those who enjoy reading about true crime, finding the right book can be a challenge.
With so many options available, it can be difficult to know which ones are worth reading.
In this article, we will explore five true crime books that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Each book on this list offers a compelling and well-researched account of a real-life crime, from the investigation to the trial and beyond. Whether you are a seasoned true crime reader or just starting to explore the genre, these books are sure to satisfy your appetite for suspense and intrigue.
When choosing a true crime book, it is important to consider the quality of the writing and the level of detail provided. Some books may be more focused on the investigation and legal proceedings, while others may delve more deeply into the psychology of the criminals involved. It is also important to consider the sensitivity of the subject matter, as some crimes may be particularly disturbing or difficult to read about.
With these factors in mind, we have selected five true crime books that offer a balanced and engaging look at some of the most notorious crimes in recent history. Each book on this list has been carefully chosen for its compelling storytelling, insightful analysis, and attention to detail. So curl up with a cozy blanket and prepare to be captivated by these true crime page-turners.
Best True Crime Books
For those who love reading about the darker side of humanity, true crime books offer a thrilling and often shocking glimpse into the minds of criminals and the events that led to their crimes.
In this roundup, we’ve compiled a list of the five best true crime books that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Whether you’re a seasoned true crime reader or just starting out, these books are sure to satisfy your craving for a gripping story. So sit back, relax, and prepare to be captivated by these page-turners.
Stranger Danger: Book 3 of I Am Legion
If you’re a fan of mystery-thrillers, Stranger Danger: Book 3 of I Am Legion is definitely a book you should consider purchasing. With a rating of 4.7 and 522 ratings in total, this book is a white-knuckle mystery-thriller that will have you on the edge of your seat.
Pros
- The book is a part of a series, so if you enjoy it, you can continue reading more.
- The book is available in Kindle format, making it easy to take with you on the go.
- The book has enabled page flip and word wise, making it easier to read.
Cons
- The book doesn’t have X-Ray enabled.
- The book is not available in print format.
- The file size is relatively large at 4475 KB.
Stranger Danger: Book 3 of I Am Legion is a fast-paced, compelling read that will keep you engaged from beginning to end. The story follows Legion as he evolves into a pointed vigilante, going after actual criminals. The book is different from a normal read, with a neurodiverse main character, making it a great and enjoyable read.
The Strangers series is very good, disgustingly violent, and fast-paced, making it a compelling read. Somehow, the main character Legion is becoming likable, which is a testament to the author’s writing skills. If you’re looking for a good mystery-thriller, Stranger Danger: Book 3 of I Am Legion is definitely worth checking out.
All the Dangerous Things: A Novel
If you are a true crime enthusiast looking for an engaging audiobook that will keep you on the edge of your seat, All the Dangerous Things: A Novel by Stacy Willingham is a must-listen.
Pros
- Gripping and suspenseful plot that will keep you guessing until the end
- Well-developed characters that are easy to root for and empathize with
- Expertly narrated by Karissa Vacker, making for an immersive listening experience
Cons
- Some readers may find the storyline to be emotionally heavy
- The pacing can be slow at times, which may not appeal to listeners who prefer fast-paced thrillers
- The resolution of the mystery may be predictable for some readers
Isabelle Drake’s worst nightmare comes true when her 11-month-old son, Mason, is kidnapped from his crib in the middle of the night. A year later, with no leads or suspects, Isabelle is still struggling to come to terms with her loss. As she grapples with severe sleep deprivation and the breakdown of her marriage, she becomes increasingly desperate to find out what happened to her son.
All the Dangerous Things is a gripping domestic thriller that will keep you hooked from start to finish. Stacy Willingham’s masterful storytelling and Karissa Vacker’s expert narration make for an immersive and unforgettable listening experience.
In conclusion, if you’re a fan of true crime and domestic thrillers, All the Dangerous Things: A Novel is a must-listen. Despite its heavy subject matter, the gripping plot and well-developed characters make for a compelling and engaging audiobook experience.
The Quarry Girls: A Thriller
If you’re a fan of true crime books, The Quarry Girls: A Thriller is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The storyline is unique and intriguing, making it a page-turner.
- The characters are well-developed and easy to connect with.
- The book is well-written and the pacing is just right.
Cons
- Some readers may find the ending predictable.
- The book may not be suitable for those who are sensitive to violence or sexual assault.
- The nostalgia factor may not appeal to everyone.
In The Quarry Girls: A Thriller, readers are transported to a small town in Minnesota in the 1970s. The story revolves around a group of teenagers who explore the tunnels beneath their homes, only to discover a disturbing secret. As the mystery unfolds, readers are taken on a thrilling ride that will keep them on the edge of their seat.
One of the biggest pros of The Quarry Girls: A Thriller is its unique storyline. The concept of a group of teenagers exploring tunnels beneath their homes is intriguing, and the author does an excellent job of building suspense throughout the book. Additionally, the characters are well-developed and easy to connect with, making it easy to become invested in their story.
While there are many pros to this book, some readers may find the ending predictable. Additionally, the book deals with some heavy themes, including violence and sexual assault, which may not be suitable for all readers. Finally, the nostalgic setting may not appeal to everyone.
Overall, The Quarry Girls: A Thriller is a well-written, engaging book that is definitely worth checking out. If you’re a fan of true crime books, this one should definitely be on your list.
They All Had A Reason: A rumor. A secret. A lie. A murder.
If you’re looking for a thrilling young adult mystery, They All Had A Reason by Michele Leathers is a great choice.
Pros
- Gripping storyline that keeps you guessing until the end.
- Well-developed teenage characters with complex relationships.
- Quick and easy read, perfect for young adults.
Cons
- Some readers may find the writing style choppy and the words not flowing easily.
- The Gemma and Bridger storyline feels incomplete and abandoned.
- The book may be more suited for younger readers around age 12.
In They All Had A Reason, sixteen-year-old Charlotte’s world is turned upside down when Bellany Silverfield, a popular girl at her school, is found dead. As Charlotte and her friends try to figure out who killed Bellany, they discover that everyone has a motive and secrets to hide. The story is full of twists and turns that keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
The teenage characters in the book are well-developed and have complex relationships with each other. The author does an excellent job of portraying the struggles of teenage life and the pressures that come with it. The book is a quick and easy read, perfect for young adults who enjoy mysteries.
While some readers may find the writing style choppy and the words not flowing easily, the gripping storyline makes up for it. However, the Gemma and Bridger storyline feels incomplete and abandoned, which may leave some readers disappointed. Additionally, the book may be more suited for younger readers around age 12.
Overall, They All Had A Reason is a great choice for anyone looking for a thrilling young adult mystery.
The It Girl
If you’re a fan of psychological thrillers, then The It Girl by Ruth Ware is a must-read.
Pros
- The plot is full of unexpected twists and turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
- The setting at Pelham College, Oxford, is well-described and adds to the overall atmosphere of the book.
- Imogen Church’s narration is excellent and adds to the suspense of the story.
Cons
- The length of the audiobook (17 hours and 9 minutes) may be too long for some listeners.
- Some readers may find the ending to be unsatisfying.
- The pacing of the book can be slow at times.
The It Girl follows the story of Hannah Jones, a new student at Pelham College, Oxford. She quickly becomes friends with a group of students who will change her life forever. When a murder occurs on campus, Hannah finds herself at the center of the investigation.
The plot of The It Girl is full of unexpected twists and turns that will keep you guessing until the very end. The setting at Pelham College, Oxford, is well-described and adds to the overall atmosphere of the book. Imogen Church’s narration is excellent and adds to the suspense of the story.
However, the length of the audiobook may be too long for some listeners, and the ending may be unsatisfying for some readers. Additionally, the pacing of the book can be slow at times.
Overall, The It Girl is a well-written and suspenseful psychological thriller that is worth checking out.
Buying Guide
When looking for a true crime book, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you get the best product that meets your needs and preferences. Here are some key features to look for when choosing a true crime book:
Genre
True crime books come in different genres, such as memoirs, investigative journalism, and historical true crime. It’s important to choose a genre that aligns with your interests and reading preferences. For instance, if you enjoy reading about historical events, a book that delves into the history of a particular crime may be more appealing to you.
Writing Style
The writing style of a true crime book can significantly impact your reading experience. Some books are written in a journalistic style, while others may be more narrative-driven. It’s essential to choose a book with a writing style that resonates with you and keeps you engaged throughout the story.
Accuracy
True crime books are based on real-life events, and it’s crucial to ensure that the information presented is accurate and well-researched. Look for books that have been thoroughly researched and have credible sources to back up the information presented.
Reviews
Reading reviews from other readers can give you an idea of what to expect from a particular book. Look for books with positive reviews and high ratings to ensure that you’re getting a quality product.
Price
True crime books are available at different price points, and it’s essential to consider your budget when choosing a book. However, keep in mind that the price doesn’t always reflect the quality of the book. Some lower-priced books may be just as engaging and well-written as more expensive ones.
By considering these factors, you can choose a true crime book that will keep you on the edge of your seat and provide an engaging reading experience.