Discover the most riveting and suspenseful true crime novels of 2023. These gripping tales will immerse you in real-life mysteries, investigations, and courtroom dramas. If you’re a fan of true crime stories, this curated list is a must-read. Get ready for a thrilling journey into the world of crime and justice with these compelling books. Here is list of Best True Crime Novels of 2023.
In Broad Daylight: A Murder in Skidmore, Missouri by Harry N. MacLean
The book In Broad Daylight: A Murder in Skidmore, Missouri by Harry N. MacLean tells the story of small town of Skidmore. Missouri, a feared bully named Ken Rex McElroy terrorized people for over 20 years. He committed crimes like theft and assault, but always escaped punishment.
Frustrated and scared, the townspeople felt the law couldn’t protect them. In 1981, McElroy was shockingly shot dead in broad daylight by an unknown person, despite many witnesses. The book delves into why the community didn’t reveal the killer, showing how they believed McElroy deserved his fate after years of his intimidation and violence.
Bright Young Women by Jessica Knoll
In “Bright Young Women,” a serial killer targets a Florida State University sorority in 1978, changing the lives of its members. Pamela, the president, narrowly escapes death and faces a shocking crime scene. Meanwhile, Tina in Seattle becomes involved when her friend Ruth goes missing.
The two women, on opposite coasts, unite in their quest for justice, challenging the popular narrative about the killer. This fictional story, inspired by true events, focuses on the women’s bravery and the missteps of the media and police during this terrifying period.
Lay Them to Rest: On the Road with the Cold Case Investigators Who Identify the Nameless by Laurah Norton
The novel “Lay Them to Rest” delves into the intricate world of forensic science, uncovering how experts solve cold cases like “Ina” Jane Doe’s. Laurah Norton, a true crime podcast host, explores forensic science’s history and advancements, from ancient death masks to modern DNA analysis.
The book celebrates the dedicated professionals who tirelessly work to identify the unknown and bring justice to forgotten victims. It’s a detailed journey through forensic techniques, emphasizing cases often overlooked, like those of sex workers and the undocumented people, and ultimately reveals the identity of Ina Jane Doe.
Penance by Eliza Clark
Eliza Clark’s “Penance” reimagines a notorious crime story about the murder of teenager Joan Wilson by schoolgirls. The book, presented as investigative non-fiction by fictional writer Alec Carelli, delves into complex themes of class, gender, and power.
Carelli, a failed journalist, tries to revive his career through this story, but lacks deep understanding and biases the narrative. Clark uses this setup to critique the true crime genre. He explores its ethical dilemmas and voyeuristic tendencies, while providing a gripping yet thought-provoking read that questions the “truth” often claimed in such stories.
The Delphi murders: The Quest To Find ‘The Man On The Bridge’ by Nic Edwards
The true crime book “The Delphi Murders: The Quest To Find ‘The Man On The Bridge’” delves into the tragic case of two Indiana teens, Abigail Williams and Liberty German, who were murdered in 2017.
This book, written by Nic Edwards and Brian Whitney, details the intense investigation that followed, exploring various suspects and the eventual arrest of Richard Allen. It offers a comprehensive look at the crime, its impact, and the relentless efforts to solve it. This true crime story is both heart-wrenching and fascinating, especially for those interested in unsolved mysteries and criminal investigations.
While Idaho Slept: The Hunt for Answers in the Murders of Four College Students by J. Reuben Appelman
The novel “While Idaho Slept” explores the chilling murders of four University of Idaho students in 2022. Author J. Reuben Appelman delves into the complex world of crime investigation in the digital age, where citizen sleuths and the media play a significant role.
The book humanizes the victims, dissects the mind of the presumed killer, and provides a glimpse into the conservative landscape of northern Idaho. It raises thought-provoking questions about the changing nature of homicide investigations in the era of instant information. With FBI involvement and extensive resources, the case unfolds with a mix of tragedy and determination, highlighting the lives lost on that fateful November morning.
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