Brian Innes

The Stories of History's Most Evil Murderers

Serial Killers

They are probably the most notorious and infamous of all multiple murders, yet these are the very same criminals that continue to fascinate us more than any other. Sometimes it is the sheer callous deliberation that seems to capture the public's attention; other times, the macabre double-life led by many such slaughterers. Although the phenomenon has probably existed throughout human history, it is only the advancement of modern police detection methods and psychological profiling, as explained throughout this book, that have identified the deadly category now known as serial killers. From Jack the Ripper, Erszabet Batory, the countess vampire, and Big and Little Harpe to Ted Bundy, the Son of Sam and Jeffrey Dahmer, the whole era of the serial killer is unveiled here. These killers transfix us with an image of an apparently civilized society within which extremely intelligent and rational individuals can commit seemingly random, utterly savage acts of cruelty and depravity. It may well be the darkest side of human activity, but there can be little doubt that the killers listed and described in these pages remain horribly fascinating - sometimes enigmatic and inexplicable - but always terrifyingly gripping.

emily allen

I'll read any genre of book, except, usually, nonfiction. I don't know why for certain, but generally, these books don't really interest me. This one, though? I couldn't put it down. This book sparks a morbid fascination in all things murder, and although its content is dark and frankly, emotionally disturbing to read, it's completely captivating. 

It outlines the lives and killings of 50 of the world's most notorious serial killers, most based in the US. The facts seem to be corroborated and the book balances education and interest well, giving readers information through high-intensity and revolting stories. This book outlines the very darkest corners of humanity, and it does it excellently. 

Innes' book is dark and horrifying; the stories that were told often physically repulsed me. But never have I read a nonfiction book so riveting, one with so much societal weight. Using pictures, quotations, police reports, and thrilling first-hand accounts, Innes shares the stories of some of the world's most evil, sadistic members of society. This is a book that I wouldn't recommend to the faint of heart, but for anyone who wants to know about such a horrifying truth of our population, this is the book for you.

Serial Killers The Stories of History's Most Evil Murderers

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