Books Like...

In 'Breaking Blue' by Timothy Egan, readers are taken on a journey to Spokane, Washington in the 1930s, where an unsolved murder of a law enforcement officer unfolds. The story follows Sheriff Anthony Bamonte's relentless pursuit of the truth, despite facing corruption within the police force and challenges due to the passage of time. Egan weaves a narrative that delves into crime, police corruption, and the quest for justice, providing a historical account of lawlessness during the Great Depression era.

The book is praised for its detailed exploration of the 1935 murder in the inland northwest, shedding light on the troubled times of the depression and the moral complexities surrounding law enforcement. Egan's writing style captivates readers with its engrossing storytelling, highlighting the noble efforts of Sheriff Bamonte in uncovering the truth behind the unsolved crime, showcasing the author's dedication to thorough research and compelling narrative.

'18 Tiny Deaths: The Untold Story of Frances Glessner Lee and the Invention of Modern Forensics' by Bruce Goldfarb is a biography that delves into the life of Frances Glessner Lee, a wealthy woman who revolutionized the field of forensic science. It explores how Frances used her wealth and influence to fund the development of forensic science, including setting up the first Department of Legal Medicine at Harvard University. The narrative follows Frances' journey from her privileged upbringing to her creation of miniature crime scene models known as Nutshells, which were used to train investigators in observational skills. also sheds light on the challenges Frances faced in a male-dominated society and her significant contributions to the field of forensics.

Goldfarb's writing style in '18 Tiny Deaths' has been praised for its thorough research and engaging storytelling. Readers appreciated the detailed exploration of Frances Glessner Lee's life, her motivations, and the historical context surrounding the development of forensic science in the United States. is described as a compelling blend of biography and history, offering insights into Frances' determination, her impact on criminal investigation practices, and the evolution of forensics as a discipline.

Deranged: The Shocking True Story of America's Most Fiendish Killer by Harold Schechter delves into the chilling crimes of Albert Fish, a notorious serial killer from the 20th century. The author intricately weaves together historical context with the narrative of Fish's heinous acts, providing a detailed account of the depravity and brutality that characterized his crimes. Schechter's writing style is described as engaging and informative, offering readers a glimpse into the mind of a truly deranged individual.

The book explores the life and crimes of Albert Fish, shedding light on the horrifying details of his murders and the impact they had on his victims and their families. Through meticulous research and vivid descriptions, Schechter paints a vivid picture of the disturbing events surrounding Fish's capture and trial, leaving readers both fascinated and horrified by the depths of human depravity.

'A Midwife's Tale: The Life of Martha Ballard, Based on Her Diary, 1785-1812' by Laurel Thatcher Ulrich delves into the life of Martha Ballard, a midwife in Hallowell, Maine from 1785 to 1812. Through excerpts from Martha's diary, readers are transported to a world of herbal remedies, local conflicts, and everyday life details. Ulrich weaves together Martha's diary entries with historical context, providing a rich tapestry of the past that draws readers in. not only chronicles Martha's experiences attending to families in various circumstances but also sheds light on the social history of the time.

Martha Ballard's meticulous diary entries serve as a valuable record of the families of that era, capturing their triumphs, turmoils, moves, and local history. Ulrich's research and analysis bring Martha's world to life, providing insights into the role of midwives, the dynamics between midwives and male doctors, and the daily activities of families in early America. offers a unique perspective on women's lives, medical practices, and societal changes during a transitional period in medicine.

'Under a Flaming Sky: The Great Hinckley Firestorm of 1894' by author Daniel James Brown is a comprehensive account of the horrors of The Great Hinckley Fire. The author skillfully transports the reader back to the same day and time as those experiencing the tragedy firsthand, highlighting the heroism shown by a few individuals amidst the disastrous fire. Through vivid storytelling and great detail, the book explores the emotional impact of the firestorm, shedding light on the unbelievable weather patterns and sheer power contained within a firestorm.

'Small Sacrifices' by Ann Rule is a gripping true crime novel that delves into the horrifying case of Diane Downs, a mother who shot her three young children to secure the love of a married man. The book unravels the complex motivations behind Diane's actions, the determination of authorities to uncover the truth, and the unbelievable courage of her daughter who testified against her. Through detailed forensic exploration, Rule paints a chilling and fascinating portrait of a diagnosed narcissistic sociopath, providing readers with a suspenseful and engaging read that offers insights into the mind of the killer.

The narrative of 'Small Sacrifices' is structured to make readers feel like they are right there as the case unfolds, allowing them to spend time in Diane Downs' head and understand her background leading up to the tragic events. Ann Rule skillfully weaves together the various elements of the story, from the initial crime to the police investigation, court case, and aftermath, presenting an unbiased and thorough account that keeps readers hooked till the very end.

'Helter Skelter: The True Story of the Manson Murders' by Vincent Bugliosi is a chilling account of the Manson Family's heinous crimes and the subsequent trial that shook America in the late 1960s. Through detailed narration and a riveting writing style, Bugliosi and Gentry paint a vivid picture of the Tate-LaBianca murders, shedding light on Manson's manipulative tactics and the intricacies of the American legal system. The book delves into the psyche of Charles Manson and his followers, exploring the complexities of their actions and the impact on their victims and society as a whole.

Bugliosi's meticulous attention to detail and his ability to provide a factual yet engaging narrative make this book a standout in the true crime genre. Readers are drawn into the disturbing world of the Manson Family, from the gruesome crimes to the courtroom drama, experiencing a mix of fear, fascination, and disbelief. The authors' comprehensive research and compelling storytelling offer a deep dive into one of the most infamous criminal cases in history, leaving a lasting impression on those who dare to uncover the dark truths within its pages.

All the President's Men by Carl Bernstein is a thrilling account of investigative journalism chronicling the Watergate scandal. The book follows the meticulous work of two reporters, Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein, as they uncover the political corruption that ultimately leads to President Richard Nixon's resignation. The writing style is described as engrossing, clear, and well-sourced, providing a behind-the-scenes look at the investigative process that brought down a president.

'The Paris Wife' by Paula McLain is a novel that delves into the early life of Ernest Hemingway and his first wife, Hadley Richardson, during the 1920s in Paris. The story follows their relationship, struggles, and interactions with famous writers of the time like F. Scott Fitzgerald and Gertrude Stein. Through Hadley's perspective, readers get a glimpse into the complexities of their marriage, Hemingway's writing career, and the bohemian lifestyle of the Jazz Age. The book provides a mix of historical insight and emotional depth, capturing the challenges faced by Hadley as the wife of a charismatic yet troubled literary figure.

The narrative of 'The Paris Wife' unfolds with a blend of fiction and reality, portraying the passionate but tumultuous relationship between Hemingway and Hadley. The writing style is praised for its vivid descriptions, evoking a strong sense of time and place, and for its ability to bring the characters to life. The book explores themes of love, sacrifice, ambition, and the impact of artistic pursuits on personal relationships, offering a poignant and engaging portrayal of a significant period in literary history.

'The Woman They Could Not Silence' by Kate Moore tells the powerful and inspiring story of Elizabeth Packard, a woman who was wronged by her own family, thrown into an inhumane institution, and fought against the patriarchal norms of her time. Through her relentless determination, Packard not only fought for her own rights but also paved the way for women's rights and equality. weaves together a compelling narrative of Packard's struggles, her battle against oppressive laws, and her ultimate triumph over adversity, making it an enlightening and inspiring read for anyone interested in history and women's rights.

The writing style of the book is described as engaging, captivating, and novel-like, making it a page-turner despite the heavy subject matter. Readers found themselves drawn into Packard's story, rooting for her as she challenges the societal norms that sought to silence her voice and undermine her beliefs. sheds light on the harsh realities faced by women in the past and serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight for equality and justice.