Killer Story

The Truth Behind True Crime Television

You must sign in to see if this title is available for request. Sign In or Register Now
Send NetGalley books directly to your Kindle or Kindle app

1
To read on a Kindle or Kindle app, please add kindle@netgalley.com as an approved email address to receive files in your Amazon account. Click here for step-by-step instructions.
2
Also find your Kindle email address within your Amazon account, and enter it here.
Pub Date Feb 18 2025 | Archive Date Jan 31 2025

Talking about this book? Use #KillerStory #NetGalley. More hashtag tips!


Description

Follow a journalist and TV producer from 48 Hours and 60 Minutes as she carves out a career in the ruthless, knives-out world of true crime television . . . one killer story at a time.

Serial killers. Homicidal spouses. Sociopathic criminals. Claire St. Amant has met them all.

She spent nearly a decade in network television chasing the biggest true crime stories in the country, including the murder of Chris Kyle, plastic-surgeon-turned-murder-for-hire suspect Thomas Michael Dixon, the Parkland high school mass shooting, the disappearance of Christina Morris, and serial killer Samuel Little.

Bringing a true crime story to network television requires quick thinking and tenacious stamina, and in her debut memoir, Claire offers true crime fans a rare in-depth look from the other side of the yellow tape.

In Killer Story, readers will learn what it really takes to get these gripping cases on the air with insights such as:
  • How it feels to share space with a dead-eyed murderer
  • Which TV show has a reputation for “eating their young”
  • How reporters win over skeptical cops and reluctant lawyers
  • Why TV journalists are always racing against the clock—and competitor sabotage
  • What happens when a district attorney decides journalists have committed a felony
  • The unresolved crimes that still haunt Claire to this day

This eye-opening look behind the scenes of true crime television offers an unforgettable read—and a window into the daily reality of investigative journalism.
Follow a journalist and TV producer from 48 Hours and 60 Minutes as she carves out a career in the ruthless, knives-out world of true crime television . . . one killer story at a time.

Serial killers...

Advance Praise

“A bold and candid memoir from a seasoned true crime insider, Killer Story is essential reading for aspiring journalists and true crime enthusiasts alike.”

—Amanda M. Fairbanks, author of The Lost Boys of Montauk and award-winning journalist

“From the blood-stained bedrooms to the tension-filled courtrooms to ego-driven newsrooms, Claire St. Amant weaves a fascinating tale of her journey behind the scenes at one of the world’s highest profile true crime broadcasts. Fans of 48 Hours, Dateline, 20/20, or any number of other popular shows and podcasts will absolutely luxuriate in the details and discoveries she makes along the way.”

—Michael J. Mooney, New York Times bestselling author of The Life and Legend of Chris Kyle

“Whenever I would hear about a mysterious murder that had just taken place in Texas, my first thought was always, ‘I wonder if Claire is already on the story.’ And yes, there she was, hanging out in the offices of the attorneys who were involved in the case, arranging interviews with witnesses, and usually getting an exclusive interview with the murder suspect . . . Reading her memoir made me, once again, shake my head in admiration.”

—Skip Hollandsworth, New York Times bestselling author of The Midnight Assassin and executive editor of Texas Monthly

“Claire St. Amant deftly takes readers through the often unbelievable, heart-pounding moments of chasing a competitive true crime story. But just as important as relaying the boots-on-the-ground experiences, with both humility and humanity, Claire gives even deeper insight into the personal challenge of covering these kinds of traumatic cases, the choices journalists—especially women—are often forced to make in order to be considered successful.”

—Maureen Maher, award-winning investigative journalist and former 48 Hours correspondent

“A bold and candid memoir from a seasoned true crime insider, Killer Story is essential reading for aspiring journalists and true crime enthusiasts alike.”

—Amanda M. Fairbanks, author of The Lost...


Available Editions

EDITION Hardcover
ISBN 9781637746059
PRICE $28.95 (USD)
PAGES 360

Available on NetGalley

NetGalley Shelf App (EPUB)
Send to Kindle (EPUB)
Download (EPUB)

Average rating from 5 members


Featured Reviews

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.

Was this review helpful?

Readers who liked this book also liked: