Best Serial Killer Books

Delve into the minds of some of the most notorious serial killers and assassins of our time with this captivating true crime book. Written by a retired Special Agent who interviewed the likes of Charles Manson, Richard Speck, and John Wayne Gacy, this book offers a landmark study on the motives of these individuals. Learn how John Douglas's work in behavioral science and criminal profiling ushered in a new era of law enforcement.

Explore the twisted mind of one of America's most notorious serial killers through the eyes of someone who knew him well. Written by a true crime writer and former Seattle police officer, this book tells the chilling story of Ted Bundy, a man who appeared to have it all but was hiding a demonic double life. This gripping page-turner takes you on a journey through Bundy's crimes, his magnetic charm, and his disturbing behavior. Recommended by true crime podcasters and perfect for fans of the Netflix documentary Conversations with a Killer: The Ted Bundy Tapes.

Explore the shocking and disturbing case of Charles Manson and his followers in a book written by the prosecuting attorney of the trial. Discover what motivated Manson's cold-blooded selection of victims and his terrifying hold over his followers, particularly the young women who carried out his orders. This harrowing true crime story is accompanied by 50 pages of black and white photographs.

Discover the thrilling story of the 1893 Chicago World's Fair in 'The Devil in the White City.' Author Erik Larson brings to life the extraordinary events surrounding the fair and the two men at its center: Daniel H. Burnham, the architect behind the construction of the "White City," and H.H. Holmes, a notorious serial killer who used the event to lure victims to his gruesome World's Fair Hotel. Larson's skilled storytelling interweaves the tales of these two men, showcasing the incredible successes and sinister secrets of 19th-century Chicago.

The Zodiac was a notorious serial killer, taunting authorities with mocking notes and claiming more victims than were officially recognized. This book recounts the intensive hunt for the Zodiac and uncovers his possible true identity.

This gripping nonfiction book explores the brutal murder of a Kansas family and the subsequent investigation, trial, and execution of the killers. With meticulous detail and astounding empathy, Truman Capote reconstructs the events and personalities surrounding the crime, including the truly chilling young killers. In Cold Blood is a masterful example of literary journalism that will leave readers breathless.

Explore the dark world of crime and punishment in the hills surrounding Florence, Italy, with a chilling true story that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Discover the hunt for the infamous serial killer known as the Monster of Florence, as investigative journalist Mario Spezi and author Douglas Preston try to uncover the truth behind the murders. Be prepared for a harrowing tale of murder, mutilation, and suicide as Preston and Spezi become targets of a shocking police investigation. This nonfiction book is perfect for fans of true crime and thrilling suspense.

This thriller delves into the depths of a psychopath's mind as an FBI trainee races against time to catch a serial killer. Brace yourself for the ultimate villain of modern fiction: Hannibal Lecter. This bestselling book has sold over five million copies and will leave you silenced with fear.

This true crime masterpiece meticulously details the life and crimes of Richard Ramirez, America's most feared serial murderer. Based on exclusive interviews with Ramirez himself, the book takes readers on a haunting journey into the heart of human evil, from his earliest brushes with the law to his deadliest stalking expeditions and the unprecedented manhunt that brought him to justice. This eerie and spellbinding account is a must-read for fans of true crime.

This true crime book delves into the haunting story of the elusive serial rapist turned murderer who terrorized California during the 70s and 80s. Written by a gifted journalist who died tragically while investigating the case, I'll Be Gone in the Dark offers an atmospheric snapshot of a moment in American history and a chilling account of a criminal mastermind and the wreckage he left behind. A modern true crime classic hailed for its originality and compelling narrative.