This book is a tremendous and thorough examination of an otherwise overwhelmingly macabre subject. At times, it can stray somewhat into relying on it’s subject’s more maudlin aspects for entertainment, but for the most part it is a tasteful and introspective account of the history of murder as a whole. On that note, despite covering such a vast subject matter, this book at once manages to feel both concise and informative, whilst also being relentlessly entertaining.
Morgan’s storytelling prowess is evident from the very first page, as they skillfully weave together narratives of bloodshed and mayhem, drawing readers into the chilling stories of real-life murderers. Each chapter is a gripping exploration of a different era or region, offering a diverse perspective on the age-old crime of murder.
One of the strengths of this book lies in its ability to contextualize murder within broader historical and cultural frameworks. Morgan paints a vivid picture of the societies in which these crimes occurred, shedding light on the societal norms, values, and pressures that may have contributed to the creation of killers. This contextualization adds depth and nuance to the narratives, making them not only fascinating but also thought-provoking.
Morgan’s storytelling prowess is evident from the very first page, as they skillfully weave together narratives of bloodshed and mayhem, drawing readers into the chilling stories of real-life murderers. Each chapter is a gripping exploration of a different era or region, offering a diverse perspective on the age-old crime of murder.
One of the strengths of this book lies in its ability to contextualize murder within broader historical and cultural frameworks. Morgan paints a vivid picture of the societies in which these crimes occurred, shedding light on the societal norms, values, and pressures that may have contributed to the creation of killers. This contextualization adds depth and nuance to the narratives, making them not only fascinating but also thought-provoking.