‘The Science of Serial Killers’ By Meg Hafdahl And Kelly Florence – Book Review

The Science of Serial Killers is the latest book release from authors Meg Hafdahl and Kelly Florence. I am not only a fan of these authors, but I am also a fan of true crime. So when I was asked to read and review this book, I was more than ecstatic. What did I think? Read on to find out!

Book Synopsis Courtesy of Simon and Schuster:

Discover the real-life inspirations behind history’s most infamous serial killers: John Wayne Gacy, Jeffrey Dahmer, Charles Manson, and so many more.

Gothic media moguls Kelly Florence and Meg Hafdahl, authors of The Science of Monsters, The Science of Women in Horror, and The Science of Stephen King, and co-hosts of the Horror Rewind podcast called “the best horror film podcast out there” by Film Daddy, present a guide to the serial killers who inspired the movies and media we all know and love. Delve into the brutal truth behind horror’s secret: many monsters portrayed on the silver screen are based on true murderers. Uncover the truth behind the real monsters of horror, answering such questions as:

• What is the science behind serial killers’ motivations like Ted Bundy and John Wayne Gacy?
• How did detectives discover the identities of criminals like the Boston Strangler and the BTK Strangler?
• Has science made it possible to unmask Jack the Ripper and the Zodiac Killer?
• What is the science behind female versus male serial killers?

Through interviews, film analysis, and bone-chilling discoveries, join Kelly and Meg as they learn about the horrors of true crime through the decades.

My Thoughts: 

I’ll start by saying that if I didn’t have to go to work, I would have finished The Science of Serial Killers in one sitting. It is that good. A true page turner. There is a little something for everyone, whether you are new to the genre or a veteran of true crime.

I like how the book is laid out in ten parts.

• Crimes of the Past
• Foreign Murder
• Women Killers
• Double Lives
• Hiding in Plain Sight
• Want to Be Famous
• Traveling Killers
• Never Caught
• Home Invasion
• The Strange.

Each part has three chapters. The chapters are quick reads, and I love the little trivia facts provided. There are a lot of well known cases, such as Ted Bundy and Richard Speck, but they are told in a way to make you think further on them, about things you may not have ever thought of. The chapters are packed with information but clear and on point. I also enjoyed the incorporation of interviews and book and film analysis in each chapter which also bring a unique look at aspects of the cases, things I didn’t really think of and I now found myself thinking more about it. I felt like I was kicking back with the authors and discussing these serial killers.

There are also cases that I didn’t know about, like Lake Bodom and Rillington Place. Those were also horrifying and gave me chills.

My Final Thoughts: 

Whether you are new to true crime or a veteran, The Science of Serial Killers offers so much for everyone. Go grab a copy. You will not be disappointed! I’m definitely looking forward to more from these authors. Don’t forget to also check out their podcast, Horror Rewind!