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Killer Story: The Truth Behind True Crime Television
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
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.
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
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.
350 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 18, 2025
51 people are currently reading
8112 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews
December 1, 2024
This is a case of Not the Book I Hoped It Would Be. Which isn't necessarily the book's fault. But when you have a subtitle like "The Truth Behind True Crime Television" I don't think it's too unfair to expect a little more there there.
This is a straightforward memoir of a journalist who becomes a producer for 48 Hours. There is no dark underbelly, there is very little consideration of whether this kind of program is exploitative. If you're wondering if it will explore the impacts on victims and families, it almost never does. When this book says it is going to show you what it's really like, it means it is going to show you all the manipulating and wheedling and sometimes straight up lying that it takes to put a story together. Sometimes it's very interesting, but I could never quite shake just how far St. Amant and other producers were willing to go in favor of... a murder of the week show that just wants something formulaic and juicy. There is no arguable good being done.
There is some wrestling St. Amant does, but it's more about how seeing all of these crimes has started to have an impact on her own mental health than anything else. She does, eventually, want to put together more nuanced reporting. But we can also get stuck in corporate bureaucracy for long chunks.
I think the true crime angle here does the book a disservice. Especially because St. Amant is not that concerned with retelling the stories she's reporting. You get the details you need, but sometimes she'll move on to another story without telling us what happened in that case. She's no longer reporting on it so why does it matter? It can create a little whiplash and a few times I had to put the book down to google it to get a conclusion.
Instead this book is really a job book. It's about learning how to do something and all the ins and outs. St. Amant cares about that most and it's when the book is at its best. To get the story and beat the other networks, she often resorts to more underhanded methods and following her as she is on the hunt gives the book its best momentum.
This is a straightforward memoir of a journalist who becomes a producer for 48 Hours. There is no dark underbelly, there is very little consideration of whether this kind of program is exploitative. If you're wondering if it will explore the impacts on victims and families, it almost never does. When this book says it is going to show you what it's really like, it means it is going to show you all the manipulating and wheedling and sometimes straight up lying that it takes to put a story together. Sometimes it's very interesting, but I could never quite shake just how far St. Amant and other producers were willing to go in favor of... a murder of the week show that just wants something formulaic and juicy. There is no arguable good being done.
There is some wrestling St. Amant does, but it's more about how seeing all of these crimes has started to have an impact on her own mental health than anything else. She does, eventually, want to put together more nuanced reporting. But we can also get stuck in corporate bureaucracy for long chunks.
I think the true crime angle here does the book a disservice. Especially because St. Amant is not that concerned with retelling the stories she's reporting. You get the details you need, but sometimes she'll move on to another story without telling us what happened in that case. She's no longer reporting on it so why does it matter? It can create a little whiplash and a few times I had to put the book down to google it to get a conclusion.
Instead this book is really a job book. It's about learning how to do something and all the ins and outs. St. Amant cares about that most and it's when the book is at its best. To get the story and beat the other networks, she often resorts to more underhanded methods and following her as she is on the hunt gives the book its best momentum.
February 25, 2025
If you’re looking for some behind the scenes information about true crime shows, you’re sure to find it here.
However.
Ms. St. Amant, from the very beginning, brags about her flagrant disregard for the rules (including the rule of law), and she would happily ruin an ongoing case if it meant getting the scoop before anyone else. She laughs about her lies of omission and ability to not get caught.
I realize that journalism often deals with these morally-questionable situations…I just personally cannot applaud this behavior. Especially given the current situation, iykwim.
I’m being generous giving it a three.
My thanks to NetGalley and BenBella Books for an e-copy in exchange for my honest feedback.
However.
Ms. St. Amant, from the very beginning, brags about her flagrant disregard for the rules (including the rule of law), and she would happily ruin an ongoing case if it meant getting the scoop before anyone else. She laughs about her lies of omission and ability to not get caught.
I realize that journalism often deals with these morally-questionable situations…I just personally cannot applaud this behavior. Especially given the current situation, iykwim.
I’m being generous giving it a three.
My thanks to NetGalley and BenBella Books for an e-copy in exchange for my honest feedback.
June 14, 2024
I don’t read a lot of true crime books, but I could NOT put this one down. It’s a unique take on the behind-the-scenes work that goes into true crime reporting, and I learned so much about this truly bizarre world, especially on the TV side. Claire’s experience working in the field in Texas gives her plenty of entertaining and strange stories to tell, and she writes with humor, empathy, and a certain relatable charm. Anyone who’s interested in true crime, journalism, or good memoirs will love this book and the journey she takes you on. I still think about it several months after finishing, which is rare for me. Can’t wait to see what Claire does next. Highly recommend!
January 18, 2025
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.
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.
February 26, 2025
It’s always hard to review a memoir, because you’re essentially reviewing someone’s life. It’s even harder to review a memoir when you know the person who wrote the book. While reading “Killer Story” I tried to act as if I had never met Claire St. Amant. I wanted to read without bias, and I think I was decently successful.
I enjoyed reading this book. I think the thing that drew me in most was wanting to know the outcomes of the cases she was working on. Although her career path was intriguing, I genuinely think the cliff hangers of the cases are what had me hooked.
There were a few phrases I felt were overused throughout the book, and at times they distracted me because I felt like they stuck out. It’s also clear that St. Amant is a very confident person. Although she admits faults and hardships in this memoir, I felt like she breezed past many issues that truly would have presented larger problems for others. It’s clear she’s very hardworking and believes in herself, which is great. At times though, I found myself wondering if it was too good to be true.
In general, I enjoyed this read. As I stated, it’s hard to review what amounts to someone’s life. Is it the strongest memoir I’ve read? No, but it did provide insight into an industry I essentially knew nothing about. I’ll be watching to see how St. Amant continues to expand her career in the coming years.
I enjoyed reading this book. I think the thing that drew me in most was wanting to know the outcomes of the cases she was working on. Although her career path was intriguing, I genuinely think the cliff hangers of the cases are what had me hooked.
There were a few phrases I felt were overused throughout the book, and at times they distracted me because I felt like they stuck out. It’s also clear that St. Amant is a very confident person. Although she admits faults and hardships in this memoir, I felt like she breezed past many issues that truly would have presented larger problems for others. It’s clear she’s very hardworking and believes in herself, which is great. At times though, I found myself wondering if it was too good to be true.
In general, I enjoyed this read. As I stated, it’s hard to review what amounts to someone’s life. Is it the strongest memoir I’ve read? No, but it did provide insight into an industry I essentially knew nothing about. I’ll be watching to see how St. Amant continues to expand her career in the coming years.
March 16, 2025
If you're a fan of true crime and enjoy watching shows like 48 Hours and 60 Minutes, this is the book for you. St. Amant started as a small town journalist covering crimes in Texas. Over time she worked her way into producing for 48 hours and 60 minutes. Her pathway to get there was quite the hustle and she had to see and hear a lot about unsavory crimes in Texas.
Each chapter seems to focus on a certain story that she covers. There was only one case that I was familiar with that she covered, but I wonder if I was a Texas local if I'd be familiar with more?
Good comparisons to this book would be I'll Be Gone in the Dark and Unmasked, but what we see is that St. Amant got out before her work succumbed her life fully. None of what she shares about the cases are too graphic. Listening to her read her book almost comes off cheery? Which I was okay with but, considering the subject matter it didn't seem to align well.
Each chapter seems to focus on a certain story that she covers. There was only one case that I was familiar with that she covered, but I wonder if I was a Texas local if I'd be familiar with more?
Good comparisons to this book would be I'll Be Gone in the Dark and Unmasked, but what we see is that St. Amant got out before her work succumbed her life fully. None of what she shares about the cases are too graphic. Listening to her read her book almost comes off cheery? Which I was okay with but, considering the subject matter it didn't seem to align well.
January 7, 2025
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!
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!
February 23, 2025
3/5 stars.
Admittedly, I’ve watched a lot of episodes of 48 Hours so I was intrigued when I saw who the author is. However, this didn’t seem quite right….while it was interesting to learn the behind the scenes of a true crime tv show, I felt like this was both too much and not enough at the same time. There was a lot of information (much of which was interesting to me) but then not enough detail behind it.
So all in all an interesting read, just not quite what I was expecting it to be.
Admittedly, I’ve watched a lot of episodes of 48 Hours so I was intrigued when I saw who the author is. However, this didn’t seem quite right….while it was interesting to learn the behind the scenes of a true crime tv show, I felt like this was both too much and not enough at the same time. There was a lot of information (much of which was interesting to me) but then not enough detail behind it.
So all in all an interesting read, just not quite what I was expecting it to be.
March 5, 2025
As someone who enjoys true crime content, I was really intrigued by this. Overall, I enjoyed it. It is informative and interesting. It is well written. It truly is fascinating. I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys true crime content. Special Thank You to Claire St. Amant,BenBella Books and NetGalley for allowing me to read a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
October 26, 2025
I found this to be quite interesting. I never knew what it took to start out and then climb the ladder to a successful career in television, especially doing true crime. I know true crime is very popular now, but when Claire started, it was not quite as popular. I enjoyed reading each step she went through and her talking about the cases she dealt with. The book was well-written and very professional. And entertaining, as well. I truly enjoyed it. I would read another book if she wrote a new one. Great read!
October 29, 2025
An amazing look behind the entertainment curtain!
As a former cop and homicide investigator, I found Claire's detailed and vulnerable description of how true crime TV is produced to be incredibly informative and entertaining. This is a must for diehard true crime enthusiasts.
As a former cop and homicide investigator, I found Claire's detailed and vulnerable description of how true crime TV is produced to be incredibly informative and entertaining. This is a must for diehard true crime enthusiasts.
March 10, 2025
KILLER STORY is a true exposé that takes readers deep into the sometimes shady underside of True Crime television.
KILLER STORY: The Truth Behind True Crime Television by Claire St. Amant is an Utterly Fascinating and Completely Unforgettable 5 Star Read.
I forgot to mention earlier how genius I think this book cover is. Using a photo of a remote control as the handle of a knife is exceptionally clever. The bright pink cover also draws potential readers’ attention to the book. A+++
In the ‘Acknowledgements‘ section of this memoir, Claire says:
“It is a privilege to tell stories for a living, and I’m still pinching myself that I get to do it.”
Love True Crime?
You MUST READ THIS BOOK!!!
Claire St. Amant has delved deeply into the world of true crime TV in a way that NO ONE HAS EVER DONE BEFORE.
Claire has deftly written about her decades of working for CBS, including producing over 20 episodes of “The First 48” and moonlighting productions for the highly esteemed “60 Minutes” franchise. But those tantalizing stories are only the tip of the True Crime iceberg.
Claire St. Amant proves that not only can she write for news magazines, produce multiple true crime documentaries in a single year, parent a small child, nurture a marriage, and host multiple podcasts, she is also an extraordinary book author.
Her writing is so engaging that even though the cases she writes about are in the past, she has the singular ability to grasp the reader’s attention and make them feel as if they are experiencing the action while it is happening.
I knew that as soon as I finished reading KILLER STORY, I would, through the power of on-demand television, be re-watching the 48 Hours episodes that Claire produced with newly opened eyes and a much greater appreciation of how much time and effort went into creating those single, hour long episodes of the storied True Crime powerhouse that is 48 Hours.
I think it is important, as a True Crime fan, reader, and book reviewer to point out that KILLER STORY doesn’t just recap the crimes and the reporting of each. It is Clair’s humanity that makes this book so engaging. It is her raw, unfiltered and honest portrayal of the toll it takes on those who are repeatedly subjected to viewing the worst of humanity that drew me into her story.
In her writing, Claire pulls no punches and opens reader’s eyes to the truth, whether they want it or not.
Will this book make some of Claire’s colleagues angry? Undoubtedly. However, though they may not like how they are portrayed, it is my humble opinion that if they don’t like what they read about themselves, they should think deeply about whether or not Claire’s portrayal of them is honest. If they don’t like reading certain things about themselves, maybe, just maybe, they should try to change their ways now that their eyes have been opened as to how they are perceived by colleagues. The smart ones will recognize the need for change and acknowledge the honesty of Claire’s portrayal of them. The others? They will act hurt and deny the truth. Hopefully, most of them will use this assessment of their behaviors as a wake-up call. I also believe (and I have no proof of this, not even a hint) that Claire could easily have sunk to the level of other memoirists and could have detailed even more shenanigans than she has written about. Instead, she chose to return to the crime stories, allowing readers unfettered access to how each case affected her in both the short and long-term.
KILLER STORY is peppered throughout with fascinating detail about the ins and outs of this popular genre.
I rate KILLER STORY: The Truth Behind True Crime Television as 5 out of 5 stars and if you are fan of True Crime TV, this is a book you will want in your home library.
*******************************
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with a free review copy of this fabulous book.
To Read my full review and for pictures, links and videos, visit my blog post at
https://wp.me/p5fyoD-3ZD
KILLER STORY: The Truth Behind True Crime Television by Claire St. Amant is an Utterly Fascinating and Completely Unforgettable 5 Star Read.
I forgot to mention earlier how genius I think this book cover is. Using a photo of a remote control as the handle of a knife is exceptionally clever. The bright pink cover also draws potential readers’ attention to the book. A+++
In the ‘Acknowledgements‘ section of this memoir, Claire says:
“It is a privilege to tell stories for a living, and I’m still pinching myself that I get to do it.”
Love True Crime?
You MUST READ THIS BOOK!!!
Claire St. Amant has delved deeply into the world of true crime TV in a way that NO ONE HAS EVER DONE BEFORE.
Claire has deftly written about her decades of working for CBS, including producing over 20 episodes of “The First 48” and moonlighting productions for the highly esteemed “60 Minutes” franchise. But those tantalizing stories are only the tip of the True Crime iceberg.
Claire St. Amant proves that not only can she write for news magazines, produce multiple true crime documentaries in a single year, parent a small child, nurture a marriage, and host multiple podcasts, she is also an extraordinary book author.
Her writing is so engaging that even though the cases she writes about are in the past, she has the singular ability to grasp the reader’s attention and make them feel as if they are experiencing the action while it is happening.
I knew that as soon as I finished reading KILLER STORY, I would, through the power of on-demand television, be re-watching the 48 Hours episodes that Claire produced with newly opened eyes and a much greater appreciation of how much time and effort went into creating those single, hour long episodes of the storied True Crime powerhouse that is 48 Hours.
I think it is important, as a True Crime fan, reader, and book reviewer to point out that KILLER STORY doesn’t just recap the crimes and the reporting of each. It is Clair’s humanity that makes this book so engaging. It is her raw, unfiltered and honest portrayal of the toll it takes on those who are repeatedly subjected to viewing the worst of humanity that drew me into her story.
In her writing, Claire pulls no punches and opens reader’s eyes to the truth, whether they want it or not.
Will this book make some of Claire’s colleagues angry? Undoubtedly. However, though they may not like how they are portrayed, it is my humble opinion that if they don’t like what they read about themselves, they should think deeply about whether or not Claire’s portrayal of them is honest. If they don’t like reading certain things about themselves, maybe, just maybe, they should try to change their ways now that their eyes have been opened as to how they are perceived by colleagues. The smart ones will recognize the need for change and acknowledge the honesty of Claire’s portrayal of them. The others? They will act hurt and deny the truth. Hopefully, most of them will use this assessment of their behaviors as a wake-up call. I also believe (and I have no proof of this, not even a hint) that Claire could easily have sunk to the level of other memoirists and could have detailed even more shenanigans than she has written about. Instead, she chose to return to the crime stories, allowing readers unfettered access to how each case affected her in both the short and long-term.
KILLER STORY is peppered throughout with fascinating detail about the ins and outs of this popular genre.
I rate KILLER STORY: The Truth Behind True Crime Television as 5 out of 5 stars and if you are fan of True Crime TV, this is a book you will want in your home library.
*******************************
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with a free review copy of this fabulous book.
To Read my full review and for pictures, links and videos, visit my blog post at
https://wp.me/p5fyoD-3ZD
April 21, 2025
Gripping insight of a true-crime writer/producer. St. Amant's creative experience covers multiple mediums: print, TV, and podcast coverage. She has covered several very well known cases of the past decade, including the Gabby Petito missing-turned-murder case and Murdaugh family scandals and crimes. As a Baylor alum, avid runner, and true-crime lover myself, I found St. Amant to be relatable and inspiring.
I regret missing her visit to The Story Peddler! If you are reading this Claire, I hope you write another book and come back to Bellville!
I regret missing her visit to The Story Peddler! If you are reading this Claire, I hope you write another book and come back to Bellville!
August 29, 2025
*Thank you to BenBella Books for a complimentary arc of Killer Story. All opinions expressed are my own. *
True crime books are among my favourite ways to kick off my mornings - doing a chapter alongside my first cup of coffee always helps my day start off in the best way, when I have time to enjoy my mornings properly. Killer Story was the perfect book to read like this, even if it took me months to finish the book.
St. Amant does a good job giving insight into the world of journalism, tv and producing, and it was a refreshing take from a true crime book that would simply focus on evidence and crime facts. This isn’t just a great read for someone who enjoys true crime, it is perfect for people with interests in journalism or working in the media. Killer Story provides detailed and clear insight into what life is like in the media world, and how to build and develop a career, as well insight into developing techniques to help you get a story.
While I had a lot of fun reading this book, St. Amant occasionally comes off as bragging, and it did feel a bit repetitive at times, especially when detailing how the author never got used to the grislier side of her job, to a point where it did remind me of the way people who keep telling others things about themselves to try get others to view them in a specific way. When she goes from describing how she looks down when evidence photos of a body is shown in court, then goes on to repeat how she never got used to these parts of her job, feels like repeating the same fact twice - once by description that lets you think it yourself, and secondly by statement, and it felt a bit overdone.
When the author states things like how often journalists and producers will rush to write pitches and story segments to send on, it felt like it occasionally transferred into how the book was written - so much felt like segments, that suddenly move onto topics that I didn’t see quite how were related to the topic the chapter was focusing on. Once, she included cliffhanger mentions in the middle of a chapter, and not go back to it for another two chapters. While the content kept my interest, it did feel like it was put together a bit messily at times, and it did feel like a tv producer trying to be an author instead of a journalist writing their memoir in some parts, while you could really read the journalist in other parts.
I wish we had gotten something more from the ending. After the pages increased with the mentions of the author wanting change and to leave her job, the ending felt a bit abrupt and undetailed, and even just a very quick epilogue page showing what St. Amant’s life is now, post-CBS, would’ve made the ending feel more complete, but at the same time I suppose a journalist will angle this to keep the door open for another story in the future.
True crime books are among my favourite ways to kick off my mornings - doing a chapter alongside my first cup of coffee always helps my day start off in the best way, when I have time to enjoy my mornings properly. Killer Story was the perfect book to read like this, even if it took me months to finish the book.
St. Amant does a good job giving insight into the world of journalism, tv and producing, and it was a refreshing take from a true crime book that would simply focus on evidence and crime facts. This isn’t just a great read for someone who enjoys true crime, it is perfect for people with interests in journalism or working in the media. Killer Story provides detailed and clear insight into what life is like in the media world, and how to build and develop a career, as well insight into developing techniques to help you get a story.
While I had a lot of fun reading this book, St. Amant occasionally comes off as bragging, and it did feel a bit repetitive at times, especially when detailing how the author never got used to the grislier side of her job, to a point where it did remind me of the way people who keep telling others things about themselves to try get others to view them in a specific way. When she goes from describing how she looks down when evidence photos of a body is shown in court, then goes on to repeat how she never got used to these parts of her job, feels like repeating the same fact twice - once by description that lets you think it yourself, and secondly by statement, and it felt a bit overdone.
When the author states things like how often journalists and producers will rush to write pitches and story segments to send on, it felt like it occasionally transferred into how the book was written - so much felt like segments, that suddenly move onto topics that I didn’t see quite how were related to the topic the chapter was focusing on. Once, she included cliffhanger mentions in the middle of a chapter, and not go back to it for another two chapters. While the content kept my interest, it did feel like it was put together a bit messily at times, and it did feel like a tv producer trying to be an author instead of a journalist writing their memoir in some parts, while you could really read the journalist in other parts.
I wish we had gotten something more from the ending. After the pages increased with the mentions of the author wanting change and to leave her job, the ending felt a bit abrupt and undetailed, and even just a very quick epilogue page showing what St. Amant’s life is now, post-CBS, would’ve made the ending feel more complete, but at the same time I suppose a journalist will angle this to keep the door open for another story in the future.
January 14, 2025
Thank you to BenBella publications and Claire St. Amant for the advanced reviewer copy! "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.
March 19, 2025
This book caught my eye because of my interest in true crime. I watch the ID channel all the time and am fascinated by the stories. I thought this book would be an interesting read because it is from the reporters perspective and experience. After reading my thoughts on this book is that I liked how it told about the cases that she covered along with little background information on how production worked with telling the story. The courtroom and interview stories were interesting. I liked how she told how she got the interviews. Loved the story about getting her first business cards from Kinkos, that was fun.
May 30, 2025
Reading Claire’s book answered some of my personal questions with this genre. The tv shows and podcasts wrap up everything neatly until the next episode. Claire let me in backstage with her memoir. As someone who is outside-looking-in, I felt as if I was running the courtroom halls with her. She mastered getting ready on the go, while I struggled to finish getting ready at my desk. I felt her anxiety when she was being pressured by her boss for more content. She delicately balanced intrusion, creating meaningful episodes for us to devour in an hour. If you ever wondered what was on the other side of the camera, or microphone, you should read her book!
February 24, 2025
I don’t watch true crime television but that didn’t matter at all. This may be classified a memoir but it mostly focuses on the various crimes that Claire St Amant has helped produce stories about. Interesting and well written.
February 28, 2025
As a true crime enthusiast and a fan of crime shows, I found myself captivated by this book. Whether it was my passion for the genre, my connection to Baylor, or the fact that I have 2 Baylor Journalism graduates in my life, this book resonated with me on multiple levels. Sic 'em
May 24, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
I expected slightly different here. I expected a little more analysis on how viewing true crime TV impacts the consumer.
Instead, we get how the author got a producing job at 48 Hours and the highlights of her 6 or so years there. We also get how the job affected HER and her next career steps. (Side note: She's not even 40 years old now.)
Was it mostly interesting? Sure. I didn't know what it meant to be a TV producer in true crime before I read this book. I didn't know that it meant finding the people to interview, get them to say yes (fast, fast, fast so you're the first show to TV), and planning out all the logistics. The author was great about finding people to interview and charming them into giving interviews.
At times, her interest in her work exceeded this reader's. The flash drive incident seemed way too long for me, as well as some of the other machinations.
As a TV producer, you tend to have short contracts and have to be on the lookout for the next gig. It comes with the territory. So the "me me me"-ness of this book plus how young she is put me off a bit.
However, if your goal is to be a TV producer, I think there's a ton here about the day-to-day life of that job.
I expected slightly different here. I expected a little more analysis on how viewing true crime TV impacts the consumer.
Instead, we get how the author got a producing job at 48 Hours and the highlights of her 6 or so years there. We also get how the job affected HER and her next career steps. (Side note: She's not even 40 years old now.)
Was it mostly interesting? Sure. I didn't know what it meant to be a TV producer in true crime before I read this book. I didn't know that it meant finding the people to interview, get them to say yes (fast, fast, fast so you're the first show to TV), and planning out all the logistics. The author was great about finding people to interview and charming them into giving interviews.
At times, her interest in her work exceeded this reader's. The flash drive incident seemed way too long for me, as well as some of the other machinations.
As a TV producer, you tend to have short contracts and have to be on the lookout for the next gig. It comes with the territory. So the "me me me"-ness of this book plus how young she is put me off a bit.
However, if your goal is to be a TV producer, I think there's a ton here about the day-to-day life of that job.
May 11, 2025
This is a fascinating tale for anyone who is interested in true crime stories especially the kinds that frequent both regular and streaming tv. The author lived the behind the scenes life of someone who came up with the story ideas and pitched it to the powers that be. If accepted, she then did the grunt work of trying to bring all the pieces together. She was a producer of 48 Hours before branching out to 60 Minutes, two of the stalwarts of the genre. The machinations that were the bread and butter of these stories almost pale in comparison to the cut-throat world of trying to get the first crack at a story with the best on-air “characters” as they call the people interviewed.
It pulls back the curtain to a world that is almost as scary as the stories told on screen. From dealing with higher ups who, being territorial to the extreme, sometimes were more of a barrier than a conduit to having to sit down with murderers and some of the worst dregs of humanity. It took a terrible toll that only now she is trying to put into perspective with therapy. And she was doing this all while being a wife and mother. Juggling career and family is never easy. This was stress on steroids. It makes for riveting reading. Five purrs and two paws up.
It pulls back the curtain to a world that is almost as scary as the stories told on screen. From dealing with higher ups who, being territorial to the extreme, sometimes were more of a barrier than a conduit to having to sit down with murderers and some of the worst dregs of humanity. It took a terrible toll that only now she is trying to put into perspective with therapy. And she was doing this all while being a wife and mother. Juggling career and family is never easy. This was stress on steroids. It makes for riveting reading. Five purrs and two paws up.
May 31, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and BenBella Books for this book for review. This was a fascinating insight into true crime research and reporting. I am not a true crime fanatic by any means. Yes, I am familiar and have watched the documentaries for some of the bigger name cases like JonBenet and Gabby Pettito, but that might be the extent. This was kind of the back- stage pass into what goes on into creating good stories and how news stories develop very quickly (I.e. active shooting) or maybe not so quickly (I.e. cold cases) depending on what is happening or if they are able to access information or resources.
June 19, 2025
I became a fan of Claire St. Amant’s work through Final Days on Earth bc I am a podcast girly through & through. I knew she had a whole true crime career before the pod, but I had no idea just how extensive! I often ruminate on how many media professionals are screwed out of the benefits of creating a hit show/piece, but this book opened my eyes to how intensive the behind-the-scenes is of true crime’s last sensational medium (tv). Her writing is just as captivating as her narrating, and I really think this is a must-read for true crime lovers, even if you aren’t an avid reader! Claire is clearly meant to be a storyteller, and I can’t wait to consume what she puts out next🤩
Read
May 31, 2025Juicy and sassy. As a 48 Hours Mystery enjoyer, and a true crime sicko in general, it was interesting to read how the sausage gets made. I have seen many of the episodes this lady produced. There's something about her tone that's giving All Lives Matter but I can't put my finger on quite what it is. A good book to absorb on vacation, but you'll be abandoning it at the airbnb.
April 30, 2025
Super interesting perspective into the life of a true crime producer! The stories were fast changing though which interrupted flow a bit
July 16, 2025
I picked this up after watching the Karen Read trial. It was fascinating to see the players in that case on prime time interview shows exactly like the author was describing. I gained insight and a lot of respect for the work that goes into booking these interviews.
July 18, 2025
I’m not super into true crime but Claire St Amant writes a fantastic memoir about her experiences. She’s a great storyteller that knows how to leave you wondering how each situation is going to turn out. I listened to the audiobook and always appreciate when the author does their own reading.
September 22, 2025
What great insight into the true crime and television world! Claire handled some complicated cases and dealt with unsavory individuals with remarkable grit and grace. I'm not at all shocked she had to take a step back and start to truly compartmentalize a bit more, along with going to therapy.
I'm looking forward to watching the specific episodes she had a heavy hand in producing and gathering the content for, and reading up more on the elusive and exclusive Texas Ranger.
AND ALSO. I'm not that surprised, but damn, CBS does not treat its employees well. And especially now, we need everyone to respect journalists and all they do.
I'm looking forward to watching the specific episodes she had a heavy hand in producing and gathering the content for, and reading up more on the elusive and exclusive Texas Ranger.
AND ALSO. I'm not that surprised, but damn, CBS does not treat its employees well. And especially now, we need everyone to respect journalists and all they do.
August 5, 2025
Not really what I expected from the title, but interesting anyway. I expected it was going to be dishing dirt on the True Crime television industry, but it was more a memoir of her experience, and not a tell-all of the industry itself. This gal is gutsy and goes after what she wants and has a lot of luck along the way. She was a producer of the show 48 hours. I was not aware that producers were out in the field, sitting in courtrooms and going after interviews themselves and sometimes even placing themselves in danger. Fans of True Crime TV will be interested.
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