The best 73 Serial Killer books

Kiss the Girls is a gripping psychological thriller by James Patterson. The book follows detective Alex Cross as he investigates a series of kidnappings and murders of young women. With a brilliant and twisted villain at its core, the novel keeps readers on the edge of their seats as Cross races against time to save the next potential victim.

Stillhouse Lake by Rachel Caine is a gripping thriller that follows Gwen Proctor, a woman who goes into hiding with her children after discovering that her husband is a notorious serial killer. As she tries to build a new life in a remote town, she is constantly haunted by the fear that her past will catch up with her. Filled with suspense and unexpected twists, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Red Dragon is a psychological thriller novel that delves into the mind of a serial killer, as well as the psyche of the FBI profiler hunting him down. Written by Thomas Harris, it introduces the iconic character Hannibal Lecter and takes readers on a chilling journey filled with suspense and unexpected twists.

I'll Be Gone in the Dark is a gripping true crime book by Michelle McNamara. It delves into the case of the Golden State Killer, a notorious serial rapist and murderer who terrorized California in the 1970s and 80s. Through meticulous research and haunting prose, McNamara chronicles her own investigation and sheds light on the relentless pursuit of justice.

The Killer Across the Table (2019) by John E. Douglas and Mark Olshaker is a chilling exploration of the minds of some of the world's most notorious criminals. Drawing on his extensive experience as an FBI criminal profiler, Douglas delves into the psychology of these individuals, offering valuable insights into their motives and methods. Through in-depth interviews and analysis, this book provides a fascinating and unsettling look at the dark side of humanity.

Killers of the Flower Moon by David Grann is a gripping non-fiction book that delves into the shocking true story of a series of murders of wealthy Osage Native Americans in the 1920s. It uncovers a sinister conspiracy and the birth of the FBI as it investigates the killings. A compelling blend of history, true crime, and investigative journalism.

The Stranger Beside Me is a gripping true crime book written by Ann Rule. It tells the shocking story of the author's friendship with the notorious serial killer, Ted Bundy. With chilling detail and intimate insights, Rule delves into Bundy's crimes and the unsettling realization that evil can lurk right beside us.

Naked in Death is a gripping mystery novel by J.D. Robb (pseudonym for Nora Roberts). Set in a futuristic New York City, it follows tough homicide detective Eve Dallas as she investigates a series of brutal and sexually charged murders. As Eve delves into the case, she uncovers dark secrets and faces unexpected danger, all while navigating her own complicated past. This fast-paced thriller keeps readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.

Mr. Mercedes is a gripping thriller by Stephen King that follows retired detective Bill Hodges as he becomes obsessed with solving a cold case. When a mass murderer known as Mr. Mercedes reemerges and taunts him with a series of letters, Hodges is drawn back into the dangerous game of cat and mouse. Filled with suspense and unexpected twists, this novel will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Postmortem is a gripping crime novel by Patricia Cornwell. Dr. Kay Scarpetta, the chief medical examiner in Virginia, is thrown into a complex murder investigation. As she delves into the case, she uncovers shocking truths and faces personal danger. Cornwell's detailed descriptions and expert knowledge of forensic science make this book a thrilling and thought-provoking read.

From Hell by Alan Moore is a gripping graphic novel that delves into the infamous Jack the Ripper murders in Victorian London. Through meticulous research and intricate storytelling, Moore presents a chilling and thought-provoking exploration of the identity of the killer and the social and political context of the time.

The Butterfly Garden by Dot Hutchison is a chilling thriller that tells the story of a beautiful and deadly garden, where young women are kept captive and tattooed with butterfly wings. When the garden is discovered, an FBI agent interviews one of the survivors to unravel the dark secrets hidden within. It's a gripping tale of survival, manipulation, and the resilience of the human spirit.

Exquisite Corpse by Poppy Z. Brite is a dark and haunting novel that delves into the world of serial killers and the macabre. Set in New Orleans, it follows the story of two troubled individuals who form a twisted bond over their shared obsession with death and art. The book explores themes of violence, identity, and the blurred lines between reality and fantasy.

The Alienist by Caleb Carr is a gripping historical thriller set in 1896 New York City. When a series of gruesome murders of young male prostitutes shocks the city, a criminal psychologist, or "alienist," and his team set out to track down the killer. Filled with rich historical detail and complex characters, this novel delves into the early days of criminal profiling and the dark underbelly of society.

Whoever Fights Monsters by Robert K. Ressler is a chilling exploration of the minds of serial killers. Drawing on his experience as an FBI agent and criminal profiler, Ressler delves into the psychology and motives of these individuals, offering insights that are as fascinating as they are disturbing.

You by Caroline Kepnes is a gripping psychological thriller that delves into the mind of a charming bookstore manager named Joe Goldberg. Obsessed with a customer named Beck, Joe uses social media and surveillance to manipulate her life and remove anyone who stands in his way. This dark and twisted novel will make you question the dangers of obsession and the extent of one's own privacy.

Zodiac is a gripping true crime book by Robert Graysmith that delves into the mystery of the Zodiac Killer, who terrorized the San Francisco Bay Area in the late 1960s and 1970s. Graysmith meticulously pieces together evidence and recounts the chilling murders, cryptic letters, and ciphers sent by the elusive killer. A fascinating and haunting exploration of one of America's most infamous unsolved cases.

Green River, Running Red by Ann Rule is a chilling true crime book that delves into the case of the Green River Killer. Through meticulous research and interviews, Rule uncovers the horrifying details of the murders and the tireless efforts of law enforcement to bring the killer to justice. It is a gripping and haunting account of one of the most notorious serial killers in American history.

Bind, Torture, Kill by Roy Wenzl is a chilling true crime book that delves into the twisted mind of the notorious serial killer Dennis Rader, also known as the BTK Killer. Through extensive research and interviews, Wenzl provides a detailed account of Rader's heinous crimes and the relentless pursuit to bring him to justice. This gripping and unsettling book offers a glimpse into the darkest corners of the human psyche.

Along Came a Spider is a thrilling novel by James Patterson. When a brilliant and twisted criminal mastermind kidnaps two children from an elite school, detective Alex Cross is on the case. Racing against time, Cross must outsmart the criminal and uncover the shocking truth behind the abduction. Filled with suspense and unexpected twists, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Helter Skelter is a chilling true crime book written by Vincent Bugliosi and Curt Gentry. It delves into the infamous Tate-LaBianca murders orchestrated by Charles Manson and his followers. Through meticulous research and firsthand accounts, the book provides a gripping and detailed insight into the motives and actions of the Manson Family, as well as the ensuing investigation and trial.

Child 44 is a gripping thriller set in 1950s Soviet Union. It follows the story of a dedicated officer, Leo Demidov, who becomes a target himself when he starts investigating a series of gruesome child murders. As he delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a dark conspiracy that challenges everything he thought he knew about his country and its people.

Dexter in the Dark is a captivating thriller by Jeff Lindsay that delves into the dark mind of Dexter Morgan, a forensic blood spatter analyst by day and a serial killer by night. This third installment in the Dexter series takes a supernatural turn, as Dexter discovers the existence of an ancient force that has been influencing his homicidal urges. As he grapples with this revelation, he must also outsmart the new killer in town while trying to protect those he cares about. Get ready for a chilling and suspenseful read that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Killman Creek is a gripping thriller by Rachel Caine that will keep you on the edge of your seat. After escaping her abusive husband, Gwen Proctor thought she and her children were finally safe. But when a body is found in the creek near her new home, she realizes that her past is catching up with her. With twists and turns that will leave you breathless, this book is a must-read for fans of psychological suspense.

Evil at Heart is a thrilling novel by Chelsea Cain that delves into the twisted mind of a notorious serial killer. As bodies start piling up in Portland, detective Archie Sheridan must once again team up with the enigmatic killer, Gretchen Lowell, in a deadly game of cat and mouse. Filled with suspense and unexpected twists, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

The Body Finder by Kimberly Derting is a gripping novel that combines elements of mystery, romance, and the supernatural. The story follows Violet, a teenage girl with the ability to sense the echoes of the dead. When a serial killer begins targeting girls in her town, Violet uses her unique gift to help solve the crimes. As she delves deeper into the investigation, she uncovers dark secrets and puts herself in grave danger. This thrilling book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Final Girls by Riley Sager is a gripping thriller that follows Quincy Carpenter, one of three sole survivors of separate mass murders. Dubbed a 'final girl' by the media, Quincy tries to move on from her traumatic past. But when one of the other final girls is found dead and the third shows up on her doorstep, Quincy is forced to confront the truth about what really happened that night.

The Night Season by Chelsea Cain is a gripping thriller that takes place in the midst of a natural disaster. When a series of drownings in Portland, Oregon are linked to a cunning killer, detective Archie Sheridan and journalist Susan Ward must race against time to uncover the truth before more lives are lost. With a great blend of suspense, drama, and unexpected twists, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

The A to Z Encyclopedia of Serial Killers by Harold Schechter is a comprehensive and chilling book that delves into the twisted minds and heinous crimes of serial killers. From well-known cases to lesser-known murderers, this encyclopedia provides detailed profiles and analysis, offering a glimpse into the darkest corners of human psychology.

The Naturals by Jennifer Lynn Barnes is a thrilling novel that follows a group of gifted teenagers with exceptional abilities in profiling and solving crimes. When undercover FBI agent Michael invites 17-year-old Cassie to join a special program for “naturals,” she finds herself drawn into a world of danger and deception as they work together to catch a serial killer. With twists and turns at every corner, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Dearly Devoted Dexter is a thrilling crime novel by Jeff Lindsay that delves into the mind of Dexter Morgan, a forensic blood spatter analyst who moonlights as a vigilante serial killer. As Dexter balances his job and personal life, he becomes entangled in a dangerous game with a killer who seems to admire his work. Filled with dark humor and intense suspense, this book explores the complexities of morality and the blurred line between good and evil.

The Silence of the Lambs is a psychological thriller that follows FBI trainee Clarice Starling as she seeks the help of incarcerated serial killer Dr. Hannibal Lecter to catch another killer on the loose. The book delves into the complex relationship between Starling and Lecter, and explores themes of power, manipulation, and the darkest corners of the human mind.

Heartsick by Chelsea Cain delves into the complex and twisted relationship between detective Archie Sheridan and the infamous serial killer Gretchen Lowell. Filled with chilling suspense and psychological tension, the book takes you on a thrilling ride as the two characters become entangled in a deadly game of cat and mouse.

The Outsider by Stephen King is a gripping thriller that blurs the lines between the supernatural and the real world. When a beloved little league coach is accused of a heinous crime, detective Ralph Anderson is determined to uncover the truth. But as the evidence mounts, it becomes clear that something truly sinister may be at play. With King's trademark blend of suspense and horror, this novel will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

The Killer Inside Me by Jim Thompson is a chilling and psychologically intense novel that delves into the mind of a small-town deputy sheriff with a dark secret. As the facade of normalcy begins to crack, we are taken on a journey through the twisted thoughts and actions of a cold-blooded killer. This gripping and disturbing book challenges our perceptions of good and evil, leaving a lasting impression on the reader.

I Hunt Killers is a gripping psychological thriller by Barry Lyga that delves into the mind of a teenager, Jazz, who is the son of a notorious serial killer. Determined to prove that he is not destined to follow in his father's footsteps, Jazz gets involved in a deadly game with a new serial killer in town. With suspenseful twists and a complex exploration of nature versus nurture, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Birdman by Mo Hayder is a gripping psychological thriller that follows Detective Jack Caffery as he investigates a series of gruesome murders in London. Filled with tension and unexpected twists, the novel delves into the mind of a twisted killer and the lengths Caffery must go to in order to stop them.

A Killer's Mind by Mike Omer is a gripping psychological thriller that delves into the twisted mind of a serial killer. When FBI profiler Zoe Bentley is called in to help catch a brutal murderer, she must use all her skills and insights to unravel the killer's motives and stay one step ahead. As the body count rises, Zoe finds herself drawn into a dangerous game of cat and mouse that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

I Don't Want to Kill You by Dan Wells is a gripping psychological thriller that follows a teenage sociopath named John Cleaver. Despite his dark urges, John is determined to resist his violent tendencies. However, when a series of gruesome murders plague his small town, John must confront his inner demons and track down the elusive killer before it's too late.

Double Dexter is a thrilling novel by Jeff Lindsay that delves into the mind of everyone's favorite serial killer, Dexter Morgan. In this book, Dexter finds himself in a dangerous game of cat and mouse with a killer who knows his secret. As he tries to outsmart his adversary, Dexter must also confront his own dark urges and the consequences of his actions. Full of suspense and dark humor, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

The Whisper Man by Alex North is a gripping psychological thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. When a father and his young son move to a new town, they discover its dark secrets and a connection to a series of gruesome murders from decades ago. As the mystery unravels, they find themselves in a terrifying battle against a killer who whispers to his victims.

Dexter By Design is a thrilling novel by Jeff Lindsay that follows everyone's favorite serial killer, Dexter Morgan. In this book, Dexter finds himself in the midst of a series of gruesome murders that mimic famous works of art. As he delves into the twisted mind of the killer, he must also navigate his own personal challenges and maintain his double life. Full of suspense and dark humor, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Blindsighted is a thrilling crime novel that follows a small town doctor named Sara Linton as she becomes embroiled in a murder investigation. As she delves into the case, she uncovers dark secrets and a shocking truth. Written by Karin Slaughter, this gripping story will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

The Only Living Witness is a chilling account of the life and crimes of Ted Bundy, as told by journalist Stephen G. Michaud. Through extensive interviews with Bundy himself, the book provides a unique insight into the mind of a serial killer and the events that led to his capture. It delves into Bundy's childhood, his modus operandi, and the shocking details of his murders, offering a disturbing but fascinating exploration of one of the most notorious criminals in history.

Dexter Is Delicious is a thrilling novel by Jeff Lindsay that delves into the dark and complex world of Dexter Morgan. As a blood spatter analyst by day and a vigilante serial killer by night, Dexter struggles to balance his insatiable urge to kill with his newfound role as a father. When a series of gruesome murders linked to cannibalism grip Miami, Dexter is drawn into a deadly game of cat and mouse that forces him to confront his own cravings and desires.

My Sister, the Serial Killer (2018) by Oyinkan Braithwaite is a darkly comedic novel that delves into the complexities of family and loyalty. Set in Lagos, Nigeria, the story follows Korede, a practical nurse, as she grapples with her sister Ayoola's habit of killing her boyfriends. As Korede tries to protect Ayoola, she is forced to confront her own moral choices and the secrets that bind them together.

The Name of the Star by Maureen Johnson is a gripping mystery novel set in London. When a series of brutal murders mimicking the infamous Jack the Ripper occur, teenager Rory Deveaux becomes entangled in the investigation. With a unique supernatural twist, the story unravels the chilling truth behind the copycat killings.

Triptych is a gripping psychological thriller by Karin Slaughter. Set in Atlanta, the novel follows the intertwining lives of detective Michael Ormewood, ex-con John Shelley, and career criminal Will Trent. A series of brutal murders connects these characters in unexpected ways, leading to a heart-pounding and twist-filled conclusion. Full of complex characters and intense suspense, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Sharp Objects is a psychological thriller by Gillian Flynn that delves into the dark and twisted mind of its protagonist, journalist Camille Preaker. Assigned to cover a series of murders in her hometown, Camille is forced to confront her own troubled past and unravel the secrets that have haunted her family for years. With its gripping narrative and shocking revelations, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Mr. Monster by Dan Wells is a chilling thriller that delves into the mind of a teenage sociopath. As the protagonist grapples with his own dark urges and a series of gruesome murders in his town, the book explores themes of morality, identity, and the nature of evil. It will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Sweetheart by Chelsea Cain is a gripping thriller that follows detective Archie Sheridan as he is forced to confront his deadliest enemy, Gretchen Lowell. With a twisted game of cat and mouse, the book delves into the dark and complex relationship between the two characters, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.

Birdman is a gripping thriller by Mo Hayder that delves into the dark and twisted mind of a serial killer. Set in London, the novel follows Detective Jack Caffery as he investigates a series of gruesome murders. With its chilling atmosphere and complex characters, the book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Blindsighted by Karin Slaughter is a gripping thriller that takes you into the dark and twisted world of a small town in Georgia. When a brutal murder shocks the community, pediatrician and part-time coroner Sara Linton finds herself drawn into the investigation. As the body count rises and long-buried secrets come to light, Sara must confront her own past in order to catch the killer.

Child 44 is a gripping thriller set in 1950s Soviet Union. When a series of brutal child murders go unnoticed by the government, disgraced secret police agent Leo Demidov takes it upon himself to investigate. As he delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a shocking conspiracy that challenges everything he thought he knew about his country and his own beliefs. This intense and thought-provoking novel will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Dearly Devoted Dexter is a thrilling novel by Jeff Lindsay that delves into the complex mind of Dexter Morgan, a blood spatter analyst for the Miami Metro Police Department who also happens to be a vigilante serial killer. As Dexter navigates his double life, he becomes entangled in a dangerous game with a sinister adversary. This gripping tale explores themes of morality, justice, and the darkness that lurks within us all.

Dexter By Design is a thrilling novel by Jeff Lindsay that delves into the world of everyone's favorite serial killer, Dexter Morgan. In this book, Dexter finds himself immersed in the art scene of Miami as he investigates a series of gruesome murders that seem to be inspired by famous works of art. With Lindsay's signature dark humor and gripping storytelling, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Dexter in the Dark is a gripping novel by Jeff Lindsay that delves into the dark and twisted mind of Dexter Morgan, a blood spatter analyst who also happens to be a serial killer. When a series of ritualistic murders occur in Miami, Dexter finds himself facing a new and terrifying adversary unlike any he's encountered before. As he delves deeper into the investigation, he uncovers shocking truths about his own past and the origins of his "Dark Passenger." This thrilling and suspenseful book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Dexter Is Delicious is a thrilling novel by Jeff Lindsay that delves into the dark and complex world of Dexter Morgan. As a blood spatter analyst for the Miami Metro Police Department by day and a vigilante serial killer by night, Dexter has always followed a strict code: only kill those who deserve it. However, when he becomes entangled with a group of cannibals, he finds himself facing a new kind of darkness that threatens to consume him. This gripping tale explores the depths of Dexter's character and the lengths he will go to protect those he loves.

Double Dexter is a gripping novel by Jeff Lindsay that delves into the mind of Dexter Morgan, a charming and intelligent sociopath who leads a double life as a blood spatter analyst for the Miami Metro Police Department and a vigilante serial killer. As Dexter navigates the complexities of his personal and professional life, he finds himself entangled in a dangerous game with a fellow killer who seems to know his every move. Filled with suspense and dark humor, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Evil at Heart is a chilling thriller by Chelsea Cain that delves into the twisted mind of a serial killer. As detective Archie Sheridan and reporter Susan Ward race against time to stop a new wave of murders, they uncover shocking truths about the killer's motives and the dark world of obsession and fame. This gripping novel will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Green River, Running Red by Ann Rule delves into the chilling true story of the Green River Killer, one of the most notorious serial killers in American history. Through meticulous research and firsthand accounts, Rule uncovers the horrifying details of the investigation and the lives of the victims, painting a compelling and disturbing portrait of a killer who evaded capture for decades.

I Don't Want to Kill You is a psychological thriller written by Dan Wells. It follows the story of John Wayne Cleaver, a teenage sociopath who is determined not to become a serial killer. However, when a new killer emerges in his small town, John finds himself in a deadly game of cat and mouse. As he tries to uncover the truth behind the murders, he must confront his own dark impulses and make a choice that will determine his future.

I Hunt Killers by Barry Lyga is a gripping psychological thriller that delves into the mind of a teenage boy, Jazz, who is the son of a notorious serial killer. Determined to prove that he is not like his father, Jazz assists the police in solving a series of murders in his small town. However, as he gets closer to the truth, he begins to question his own dark instincts and fears that he may have inherited his father's twisted legacy.

Killman Creek is a gripping thriller by Rachel Caine that follows Gwen Proctor as she tries to escape her dark past and protect her children from her vengeful ex-husband, Melvin Royal. When a new threat emerges, Gwen must confront her fears and race against time to uncover the truth about Killman Creek before it's too late.

Mr. Monster is a chilling thriller by Dan Wells that delves into the mind of a teenage sociopath, John Wayne Cleaver. As John tries to suppress his own dark urges, he becomes entangled in a series of gruesome murders in his small town. With a gripping narrative and a unique protagonist, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Sweetheart by Chelsea Cain is a gripping thriller that delves into the twisted relationship between detective Archie Sheridan and serial killer Gretchen Lowell. As Archie tries to move on from his traumatic past with Gretchen, she escapes from prison and draws him back into her deadly game. Filled with suspense and unexpected twists, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

The A to Z Encyclopedia of Serial Killers by Harold Schechter is a comprehensive reference book that provides detailed information on notorious serial killers throughout history. From Aileen Wuornos to the Zodiac Killer, this book delves into the twisted minds and chilling crimes of these individuals, making it a must-read for true crime enthusiasts.

The Body Finder is a young adult novel by Kimberly Derting that combines elements of romance, mystery, and the supernatural. The story follows Violet Ambrose, a high school student with the ability to sense the echoes of the dead. When a serial killer begins targeting girls in her town, Violet uses her unique gift to help solve the mystery and bring the killer to justice. The book delves into themes of friendship, love, and the consequences of keeping secrets.

The Killer Inside Me by Jim Thompson is a chilling and unflinching exploration of the mind of a psychopathic killer. The protagonist, Sheriff Lou Ford, seems like a friendly and unassuming small-town lawman, but beneath the surface lies a dark and twisted personality. As he narrates his own descent into violence and madness, the novel forces us to confront the terrifying reality that evil can lurk within anyone.

The Name of the Star by Maureen Johnson is a gripping mystery novel that takes place in modern-day London. When a series of brutal murders mimicking the infamous Jack the Ripper killings start occurring, 16-year-old American student Rory discovers that she can see things no one else can. As she delves deeper into the mystery, she uncovers a secret society and a dangerous truth about her own abilities.

The Naturals by Jennifer Lynn Barnes is a thrilling mystery novel that follows a group of teenagers with extraordinary abilities. When Cassie is recruited to join a secret FBI program, she discovers that her natural talent for profiling could help solve cold cases. As she delves deeper into the world of criminal investigation, she uncovers shocking truths about her own past. With twists and turns at every corner, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

The Night Season by Chelsea Cain is a gripping thriller that follows detective Archie Sheridan as he investigates a series of mysterious drownings in Portland, Oregon. With a relentless killer on the loose and the city submerged in floodwaters, Sheridan must race against time to uncover the truth before more lives are lost.

The Only Living Witness by Stephen G. Michaud is a chilling account of the notorious serial killer Ted Bundy. Through interviews with Bundy himself, the book delves into his twisted mind and offers insights into his heinous crimes. It provides a unique perspective on one of the most infamous criminals in history.