At first, I was a little turned off by the ego, as it wasn’t something I’d encountered in a non-fiction book before. “Who does this person think she is?” But the further I got, I just kind of chalked it up to this being a memoir by a person who knows their worth and isn’t afraid to say it. Author is tenacious and hard working, and that work ethic is cool to see. That’s not to say she always makes the perfect choices. Sometimes she has to get creative to pull something off, but author knows how to spin that, too.

People who make their money in true crime journalism are a specific breed, as for the most part, they have to be okay with getting people to do things that are against their/others’ best interests. It involves some moral grey area. If you’re the type of person to pick up this book in the first place, I would think you’d at least have an uneasy understanding of this.

One strange element to the book, there were a few instances in which it seemed like the author was setting up a more personal story (not work), but then turned right back into work. She’s nothing if not focused. In that way, don’t expect much about the author other than making tv happen.

4/5 stars, for true crime fans who want to see how the sausage is made.

*An uncorrected proof of this book was provided by the publisher at the reviewer’s request in exchange for a fair and uncompromising review.

I became fully engrossed in this memoir written by a former CBS producer for 48 Hours. She dishes up the nitty gritty on how she pitches stories, chases them, and sets up interviews for the show. It puts her in contact with a lot of criminals and often victim’s family as well. She sat in on many murder trials and tells how it affected her over the years. A very good true crime read about chasing stories.

"Killer Story" is an unforgettable read that offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to be a true crime television producer. The stories that St. Amant offers up are an interesting (and sometimes horrifying) look behind the curtain at shows like the one she produced for and gives her own unique insight on just what it takes to create an hour of television to fascinate viewers. I could not book this book down, instead finding myself devouring the words on the pages, looking forward to whatever insane, twisted story St. Amant would describe next. As a journalist myself, this book was particularily intriguing and inspiring as I look ahead to my own career in the media world.

"Killer Story" is out on Feb. 18! If you're a true crime fan, or just curious about the world behind television, this is definitely the book for you!

Thank you to BenBella publications, NetGalley, and Claire St. Amant for the advanced reviewer copy!

Get ready to pirouette straight into the drama, romance, and heartwarming charm of Flirty Dancing! 🌈 This delightful summer romp is packed with Broadway vibes, irresistible characters, and enough spark to light up the Catskills.

🎭 The Plot:
Archer Read is chasing his Broadway dreams, but after countless rejections, he’s running out of hope—and money. Enter Shady Queens, a queer-friendly Catskills resort where Archer’s last chance at stardom collides with his teenage crush, Mateo Dixon, a once-famous Broadway star turned brooding boss. Add a spicy romance with his hot bunkmate, Caleb, and a wildly chaotic dance crew, and you’ve got a summer Archer will never forget.

🔥 Why You’ll Love It:
• Archer’s Journey: From wide-eyed dreamer to finding his place, Archer’s story is one of resilience, humor, and heart.
• Broadway Meets Catskills: With endless showbiz references, a colorful cast, and over-the-top drama, this book is a musical theater lover’s dream.
• Messy, Swoon-Worthy Romances: Mateo and Archer’s slow-burn chemistry and Caleb’s irresistible charm will have you rooting for love in all its forms.
• Themes That Hit the Right Note: A celebration of queerness, creativity, and finding your tribe, this story is as empowering as it is entertaining.

💃 Final Thoughts:
Flirty Dancing isn’t just a rom-com; it’s a love letter to anyone who’s ever dreamed big and danced their heart out. Between the laughs, tears, and steamy moments, it reminds us that love—and life—is all about taking center stage, even when the spotlight feels too bright.

🎭 Perfect for fans of: Casey McQuiston, found family vibes, and stories where art imitates life in the best way.

📚 #FlirtyDancing #JenniferMoffatt #RomanticComedy #QueerRomance #BroadwayDreams #DanceRomance #CatskillsChaos #BookishLove #LGBTQRomance 🌈✨

straight forward and wellw ritten memoir about what it takes to get a story in true crime reporting. i was hoping there'd be a bit about how exploitative it is, but eh. 4 stars. tysm for the arc.

This book is about the making of true crime television shows (as someone who went to film school and who loves a good true crime podcast or show, I had to read this)!

I also absolutely love this cover, I think it's so clever. Simple and effective. Truly perfection.

I did find that this read quite a bit like a textbook to me. I was really hoping that it would have a bit more of casual feel. If you struggle to read non-fiction, the audiobook is probably the much better route to read this. I should've gone audiobook.

Thanks to NetGalley for the e-ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review! My Goodreads review is up and my TikTok (Zoe_Lipman) review will be up at the end of the month with my monthly reading wrap-up.

Killer Story by Claire St. Amant offers a gripping, behind-the-scenes glimpse into the cutthroat world of true crime television. With nearly a decade of experience at 48 Hours and 60 Minutes, St. Amant masterfully recounts her pursuit of high-profile cases. This memoir doesn’t just delve into the stories themselves but exposes the relentless pressure, ethical dilemmas, and unexpected dangers journalists face to bring these cases to light. Both revealing and riveting, Killer Story is a must-read for true crime fans eager to learn what happens beyond the headlines.

Many thanks to NetGalley and BenBella Books for providing an eARC of Killer Story prior to publication.