Best True Crime Books December 2024

Assuming Names: A Con Artist’s Masquerade

Tanya Thompson’s “Assuming Names” is a gripping dive into the shadowy world of con artistry. With raw honesty and unexpected humor, Thompson recounts her journey as a master of deception, weaving tales of audacious scams and narrow escapes. Her vivid storytelling transports readers into the mind of a con artist, revealing the thrill and paranoia of living multiple lives. It’s a fascinating, sometimes uncomfortable look at human nature and the power of reinvention. I couldn’t put it down.

Running with Scissors

Burroughs’ darkly comic memoir is a rollercoaster of dysfunction and absurdity. From his eccentric mother’s psychiatric breakdown to living with her unhinged therapist, Augusten’s adolescence is anything but ordinary. With razor-sharp wit, he recounts bizarre family dynamics, unconventional living arrangements, and coming-of-age experiences that are equal parts hilarious and horrifying. This raw, unflinching account will make you laugh, cringe, and marvel at the resilience of the human spirit.

The Big Short

In “The Big Short,” Michael Lewis takes us on a riveting journey through the 2008 financial crisis. With his trademark wit and insight, Lewis introduces a cast of eccentric outsiders who saw the impending disaster before anyone else. From a one-eyed hedge fund manager to a neurotic genius, these unlikely heroes bet against the housing market and won big. Lewis’s storytelling is so engaging, you’ll find yourself rooting for these underdogs while simultaneously feeling outraged at Wall Street’s greed. A must-read for anyone curious about how a few saw what others missed.

The Johnstown Flood

McCullough’s vivid account of the 1889 Johnstown disaster grips you from the start. His meticulous research brings to life the tragic day when a dam burst, unleashing a wall of water that devastated an entire town. Through personal stories and rich historical detail, he paints a haunting picture of human courage and folly. I found myself holding my breath as the flood approached, feeling the raw terror of those caught in its path. A masterful blend of storytelling and scholarship that left me pondering the fragility of life.

Killing the Rising Sun

Dive into the gripping final months of World War II with Bill O’Reilly’s “Killing the Rising Sun.” This riveting account brings to life the brutal Pacific theater, where American forces faced a determined Japanese enemy. O’Reilly’s vivid storytelling transports you to the front lines, revealing the human cost of war and the agonizing decisions that shaped history. From island-hopping campaigns to the atomic bombings, this book offers a fresh perspective on a conflict that changed the world forever.

Killing Patton

Delving into the mysterious death of General George S. Patton, O’Reilly’s gripping narrative transports readers to the chaotic final days of World War II. With his trademark blend of meticulous research and vivid storytelling, he unravels a web of political intrigue and personal vendettas. I found myself captivated by the larger-than-life personality of Patton and the shocking circumstances surrounding his demise. O’Reilly’s passion for uncovering the truth shines through, making this a must-read for history buffs and conspiracy theorists alike.

Killing Reagan

From the moment John Hinckley Jr. pulled the trigger, history was forever changed. O’Reilly’s gripping account of the Reagan assassination attempt delves into the chaos of that fateful day and its far-reaching consequences. Through meticulous research and vivid storytelling, he paints a portrait of a president’s resilience and a nation’s shock. I found myself captivated by the lesser-known details and personal anecdotes that bring this pivotal moment to life. A must-read for history buffs and political junkies alike.

Killing Lincoln

In “Killing Lincoln,” Bill O’Reilly brings history to life with his gripping account of Abraham Lincoln’s final days. I was captivated by the vivid details and found myself transported to 1865 Washington. O’Reilly’s narrative style kept me on the edge of my seat, even though I knew the tragic outcome. The book offers fresh insights into Lincoln’s character and the turbulent times he faced. It’s a poignant reminder of how one man’s actions can change the course of history. A must-read for history buffs and casual readers alike.

Killing Kennedy

In “Killing Kennedy,” Bill O’Reilly takes us on a gripping journey through the life and death of JFK. I couldn’t put it down, feeling like I was right there in Dallas on that fateful day. O’Reilly’s vivid storytelling brings the era to life, from the glitz of Camelot to the dark underbelly of politics. He doesn’t shy away from controversy, exploring various theories while maintaining a balanced perspective. It’s a haunting reminder of how one moment can change history forever.

In the Heart of the Sea

Philbrick’s gripping account plunges readers into the harrowing true story that inspired Moby-Dick. With vivid prose, he recounts the ill-fated voyage of the Essex, a Nantucket whaling ship sunk by a massive sperm whale in 1820. The crew’s desperate struggle for survival unfolds in heart-wrenching detail, as they face starvation, dehydration, and unthinkable choices adrift in the vast Pacific. A riveting tale of human endurance and the unforgiving power of nature.