Member Reviews

This is the kind of book that I like to read, with killers interviewed that are lesser known. I get tired of seeing so many books on the same famous killers. This is written in the prisoner’s own words describing their crimes and they were all new to me. It entices me to find and watch the documentary that was made about these killers with the interviews. The authors went back and did a reinterview after a period of time and talking to other people (victim's family and friends) to get their perspective. It helped them to decide what to follow up on when they went back.

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In the haunting pages of "I Am a Killer: What Makes a Murderer," Danny Tipping and Ned Parker offer readers an unprecedented and spine-chilling journey into the depths of darkness. With a gripping narrative and unprecedented access to high-security prisons, the authors venture where few dare to tread, exploring the minds of killers to answer the haunting questions that plague society: What compels someone to take a life, and what lurks within the minds of those who commit unspeakable acts?

Through intimate and bone-chilling interviews with the perpetrators themselves, the veil of mystery surrounding these heinous crimes is lifted. Murderers, some destined to spend their lives behind bars, speak candidly about their pasts and the harrowing details of their crimes. Tipping and Parker present readers with an unfiltered glimpse into the twisted minds of these killers, allowing us to confront the very essence of evil.

The book paints a multi-dimensional picture by including interviews with the families of both perpetrators and victims, as well as the law enforcement officials who worked tirelessly to solve these cases. This panoramic view reveals the constellation of factors that culminate in violent crimes, forcing readers to grapple with the complexities of the human psyche and the societal pressures that can push an individual to the brink of darkness.

The authors' meticulous research and storytelling prowess create a palpable sense of dread and fascination, compelling readers to confront the unsettling truth about human nature. Exclusive photographs and documents, as well as commentary from the documentary producers, further immerse us in the world of these killers, leaving us spellbound by the chilling details.

"I Am a Killer" does not shy away from the complexities of the human condition, presenting a balanced account of the crimes and the individuals behind them. It challenges readers to confront uncomfortable questions about justice, retribution, and the blurred lines between right and wrong. Tipping and Parker offer no easy answers, leaving readers to grapple with the haunting notion that evil can lurk within the most unexpected places.

This book is not merely a voyeuristic exploration of depravity but a profound examination of the human experience. Through the eyes of murderers, we are forced to confront the fragility of our own humanity and the potential for darkness that exists within us all. "I Am a Killer" is a brave and necessary exploration of the shadows that haunt society, a chilling reminder that evil can wear many faces.

"I Am a Killer: What Makes a Murderer" is a riveting and unflinching exposé that investigates the hearts of darkness. Danny Tipping and Ned Parker's masterful storytelling and access to the minds of killers make this book a gripping page-turner that will leave readers both fascinated and haunted. It is a stark reminder that true monsters walk among us, and understanding their motivations is both a terrifying and essential endeavor. A must-read for anyone seeking to grasp the complexities of human behavior and the profound consequences of the choices we make.

"A bone-chilling and unflinching dive into the minds of killers. 'I Am a Killer' is an unprecedented true crime journey that will leave you haunted and utterly engrossed."

"Tipping and Parker's fearless pursuit of truth sets this book apart in the true crime genre. 'I Am a Killer' offers an unfiltered glimpse into the darkest corners of human nature."

"An enthralling and compelling narrative that pushes the boundaries of understanding criminal behavior. 'I Am a Killer' is a must-read for anyone fascinated by the complexities of the human psyche."

"This is true crime at its most haunting and riveting. 'I Am a Killer' takes readers on an emotional rollercoaster through the minds of murderers, leaving a mark on your soul."

"With unprecedented access to killers, Tipping and Parker have crafted an utterly absorbing and chilling true crime account. 'I Am a Killer' is a masterclass in investigative storytelling."

"In 'I Am a Killer,' Tipping and Parker go beyond the surface to explore the multifaceted dimensions of violent crimes. A profound and thought-provoking examination of the human condition."

"Tipping and Parker's dedication to authenticity and research is evident on every page. 'I Am a Killer' presents a balanced and unvarnished portrait of murderers, leaving readers grappling with haunting questions."

"Prepare to be captivated and disturbed. 'I Am a Killer' is an unputdownable exploration of evil, morality, and the blurred lines between right and wrong."

"Tipping and Parker's storytelling is as gripping as it is chilling. 'I Am a Killer' transports readers into the minds of murderers like never before, leaving them breathless and haunted."

"A true crime masterpiece that lingers in your thoughts long after you've finished reading. 'I Am a Killer' offers a poignant and unflinching look into the abyss of human depravity."

"A standout in the true crime genre. 'I Am a Killer' courageously ventures into the darkest recesses of the human mind, leaving readers both disturbed and utterly mesmerized."

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I Am A Killer by Danny Tipping and Ned Parker is a gripping exploration into the minds of murderers, inspired by the renowned Netflix documentary series. This book delves into ten compelling cases, granting us exclusive access to the incarcerated killers in high-security prisons across America. Through intimate interviews and handwritten letters, we hear their chilling reflections on their crimes and their lives behind bars.

While I found the book fascinating, it left me with conflicting emotions. I must admit, I yearned for a deeper dive into select cases to understand the roots of these criminals' paths. The book's plethora of cases left me hungry for more in-depth analysis, yet it remains an eye-opening look at some of America's most haunting murder mysteries. If you're a true crime enthusiast, I Am A Killer is definitely worth exploring, challenging you to grapple with the complexities of human nature and the flaws in our justice system.

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Thank you Netgalley and Sourcebooks for an ARC. I’ve never been one for true crime anthologies, but this one is different. I loved it!

What makes this book unique and sets it apart from other true crime anthologies/story collections is that the killers tell their stories. Most anthologies are about famous serial killers — I Am A Killer is interesting, lesser-known cases with commentary by the killers themselves.

The cases are also philosophically perplexing. I love how much this book made me think critically about topics such as the following; If person A beats person B and B goes to the hospital, is told she is wi survive, but ends up slipping unexpectedly and dying after her family pulls the plug on life support…who ended her life?

This is an excellent collection for any true crime fans.

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So I initially watched the Netflix TV series and I wanted to know if the book had more information, but it was just like watching the TV show. True crime is always interesting for me, because you really don't know if everything written is true, even if they get a chance to speak with the people involved.

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I had not watched the Netflix series this book is based off of so I came into this without any knowledge of the offenders or their crimes. The authors/show creators chose ten stories from the first two seasons to expand on. The show and the book looked for a way to break out of the true crime mold and investigate the causes and consequences of violent crime. It’s never entirely clear if the offenders interviewed are telling the truth so it’s up to us as the readers to decide. The point is not to sensationalize the crimes or offenders or attempt to overturn the punishment given. All of the people interviewed are guilty and admit to their crimes. Some people take more responsibility than others. The authors not only interview the offenders, but interview their friends, family, and supporters as well as family and friends from the victim’s side. This tactic gives a well rounded view of the case/offender so the reader doesn’t have a biased view of the crime.

I found their stories compelling and deeply sad. Some make excuses for their behavior while others take full accountability. Each person’s story is worth reading and the authors have done their best to provide the full scope of how the crime has affected all people involved. After reading one of the stories, I went to watch the corresponding episode. While it was good to put faces to names and hear their voices, I preferred reading the book. The book provides more details from the directors and producers that they weren’t able to provide during filming because they don’t have a voice in the episodes. Also the book’s writing had a faster pace than the episodes provided.

For those interested in true crime and sociology, I think this is a great book to read. It puts into perspective socioeconomic status, opportunities afforded to us, the criminal justice system across various states and prison culture. It certainly has you valuing your life and decisions more than you may have previously.

Thank you to Sourcebooks for this ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

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I tried but I just can't get into the writing style of this one, I don't find it engaging. Maybe the TV show is better.

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I thought this would be really interesting. I hadn't watched the Netflix series, but I wanted to. I thought it would be really interesting to watch a story and then read about it since the book was supposed to have extra crime scene pics and documents. Unfortunately, I guess because I received an ARC ebook copy of this book, it has no pictures or extra documents. It pretty much reads like an episode transcript. I'm guessing the actual published book will have those pics,etc., so it will probably be much more interesting. But, judging from what I received, I wasn't impressed and found it no more interesting than just watching the series.
3⭐️
I am very grateful to Netgalley and Sourcebooks for allowing me to have an advanced ebook copy of this book.

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Thank you @Netgalley for an e copy of this book. The girls and I are big true crime fans and this book is definitely in our wheelhouse.

It is interesting how many similarities from each killers background can be found. Sometimes it is redundant and some people will find this boring. This is not the kind of page turner book that you will read in one sitting and that is ok. It reads very much like the series and I would suggest reading it as a group one killer at a time. It makes for interesting conversations!!

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Disturbing in a couple ways. First, the author kind of assumes these guys are being honest. Oh, very doubtful. Second, the author has avoided interviews with serial killers. I don't really understand why but I suspect she couldn't get in to see them. Or they wouldn't communicate without a fee.
Anyway it's slow going and I saw no redeeming qualities. I don't think we can learn anything here because they have their agenas and the author is naive. Wanting to sell books bigtime with a title like I AM A KILLER. Sure, some people will buy it just because of the title.

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The stories are interesting. The authors don't attempt to make a point or have a purpose in the story. They aren't trying to extoll the problems with the prison system or make you wonder about the innocence of the killers. They are simply presenting a story. However, it is important to note that the focus isn't the victims. The authors attempt to get input from the victims family, but again, the interviews are focused on the killer. As I said, they aren't trying to make a point about anything, but telling a story. I just don't know what the point of the story is. However, if you enjoy true crime, you will most likely enjoy the stories as they are lesser known (unless you have watched the series. then you already know them and I don't feel the book added any information).

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THIS BOOK!!!!!! Oh my gosh! I love how this was written there was just enough information in between their interview process! I love how they interviewed anyone they could or would allow them too. I love how it was written in a way that was bias and left the reader to make their own decisions. I wish there was more books written like this!

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I loved it just as much as i loved the show. I already might reread it, because its the same feeling as watching the show but very different

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I find books like this really interesting so I was excited to read this one. As a disclaimer, I have not watched the Netflix show. While I found some of the stories interesting, I felt like there were times when the information was repeated. Some stories seemed to be longer than they really needed to be and this meant that the book dragged on a little bit. I do appreciate how the book is written though as there is information from many different people and different sides. Although I do feel like sometimes it doesn't always seem like it's very objective.

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Interesting tie in the the docu-series definitely shades in the stories a bit more and due to being a book it is significantly easier for me to take in the information. If you have seen it definitely read it. Should still be accessible to those who have not watched the series.

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I received a free copy of, I Am A Killer, by Danny Tipping: Ned Parker, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Very few killers actually admit they killed someone. In this book they do. I have never watched this show on Netflix, so all these stories were new to me. An interesting book on murders there childhood, there crime, and how they are doing now in prison.

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A must-read for true crime fans. It was chilling to read about the crimes from inside perspectives and I found it super interesting. Well researched and really well written, a great book overall!

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Chilling account of convicted killers incarcerated in America. I watched the programs on Netflix and I thoroughly enjoyed it, this gave a good insight to the workings of the programme behind the scenes as well as re telling some of the shocking stories featured, a fascinating read!

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This was a really interesting read! I enjoy murder and serial killer stories and this really dives into this. At times, it was a bit hard to read but that is the truth of the murders. After I read the book, I watched the netflix special, and it was a good pairing. I don't believe this type of book has trigger warnings, but just be mindful going into it!

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Many of these true crime stories were interesting, but they contained the exact same information seen in the Netflix documentary, so the book felt a little pointless.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the free e-copy.

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