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Gangster Hunters: How Hoover's G-men Vanquished America's Deadliest Public Enemies
The enthralling, can't-put-down account of the birth of the modern FBI.
J. Edgar Hoover was the face of the FBI. But the federal agents in the field, relentlessly chasing the most notorious gangsters of the 1930s with their own lives on the line, truly transformed the Bureau.
In 1932, the FBI lacked jurisdiction over murder cases, bank robberies, and kidnappings. Relegated to the sidelines, agents spent their days at their desks. But all of that changed during the War on Crime. Hunting down infamous public enemies in tense, frequently blood-soaked shootouts, the Bureau was thrust onto the front pages for the first time.
Young agents, fresh out of law school and anticipating a quiet, white-collar job, faced off with murderous felons who were heavily armed, clad in bulletproof vests, and owned cars that outraced the best vehicles the Bureau had. But the federal men were fiercely devoted—to the Bureau, to each other, and to bringing America’s most wanted criminals to justice.
The G-men crisscrossed the United States in pursuit of John Dillinger, Bonnie and Clyde, Ma Barker's criminal family, Baby Face Nelson, and Pretty Boy Floyd. But the green FBI agents were always one step behind and a moment too late, the criminals evading elaborate stakeouts and dramatic ambushes. Facing mounting criticism, with bodies left in their wake, the agents had to learn to adapt. After all, more than their reputations were at stake. Through incredible primary source research, John Oller transports readers right to the most harrowing and consequential raids of the 1930s, with fast-paced action that shows the lengths both sides would go to win.
J. Edgar Hoover was the face of the FBI. But the federal agents in the field, relentlessly chasing the most notorious gangsters of the 1930s with their own lives on the line, truly transformed the Bureau.
In 1932, the FBI lacked jurisdiction over murder cases, bank robberies, and kidnappings. Relegated to the sidelines, agents spent their days at their desks. But all of that changed during the War on Crime. Hunting down infamous public enemies in tense, frequently blood-soaked shootouts, the Bureau was thrust onto the front pages for the first time.
Young agents, fresh out of law school and anticipating a quiet, white-collar job, faced off with murderous felons who were heavily armed, clad in bulletproof vests, and owned cars that outraced the best vehicles the Bureau had. But the federal men were fiercely devoted—to the Bureau, to each other, and to bringing America’s most wanted criminals to justice.
The G-men crisscrossed the United States in pursuit of John Dillinger, Bonnie and Clyde, Ma Barker's criminal family, Baby Face Nelson, and Pretty Boy Floyd. But the green FBI agents were always one step behind and a moment too late, the criminals evading elaborate stakeouts and dramatic ambushes. Facing mounting criticism, with bodies left in their wake, the agents had to learn to adapt. After all, more than their reputations were at stake. Through incredible primary source research, John Oller transports readers right to the most harrowing and consequential raids of the 1930s, with fast-paced action that shows the lengths both sides would go to win.
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Published November 26, 2024
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September 15, 2024
Can you even have a bad book which contains John Dillinger, Bonnie and Clyde, Pretty Boy Floyd, Machine Gun Kelly (the criminal, not the musician), and Baby Face Nelson? We won't know the answer to whether or not that is possible because John Oller's Gangster Hunters has all of these characters and is a fantastic read.
Oller's stated purpose is to highlight the rise of the FBI and, more specifically, the agents who never got their due because J. Edgar Hoover was a spotlight hog while also being a huge weirdo. To tell the story of these agents, you have to tell the story of the criminals they are hunting. These types of books can be very challenging to read if the author doesn't have complete control of the narrative. You need to introduce a litany of names and connections while keeping the story well paced. I've enjoyed previous books from Oller and this is no exception. He makes characters memorable while using very little page count. He makes you care about each of them by giving the reader just enough insight to give them a hook.
Meanwhile, Oller presents the political circumstances of how the FBI grew during this time period without drowning the book in extraneous information. The fact that all the criminals listed above met their ends (both literally and figuratively) in about a two year period is astonishing. Luckily for us, the book is, too! I can wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone including non-history nerds. It is that good!
(This book was provided as an advance copy by Netgalley and Dutton Books.)
Oller's stated purpose is to highlight the rise of the FBI and, more specifically, the agents who never got their due because J. Edgar Hoover was a spotlight hog while also being a huge weirdo. To tell the story of these agents, you have to tell the story of the criminals they are hunting. These types of books can be very challenging to read if the author doesn't have complete control of the narrative. You need to introduce a litany of names and connections while keeping the story well paced. I've enjoyed previous books from Oller and this is no exception. He makes characters memorable while using very little page count. He makes you care about each of them by giving the reader just enough insight to give them a hook.
Meanwhile, Oller presents the political circumstances of how the FBI grew during this time period without drowning the book in extraneous information. The fact that all the criminals listed above met their ends (both literally and figuratively) in about a two year period is astonishing. Luckily for us, the book is, too! I can wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone including non-history nerds. It is that good!
(This book was provided as an advance copy by Netgalley and Dutton Books.)
November 21, 2024
Modern lore about federal agents is that they are excessively aggressive, entrapping poor dumb schlubs into committing crimes they otherwise wouldn’t think of committing, putting words in their mouths, and ramming unconscionable plea deals down their throats.
In fact, the hallmark of federal law enforcement today is caution. Much of their work, it may not surprise you to hear, consists of supervisors, approvals, approvals of approvals, and — the especial bane of agents with backgrounds as beat cops — mountains of paperwork. When the feds go to arrest someone on federal charges, they almost never do so without roping in the locals for backup, and their “ops plans” are gone over well in advance with a fine-toothed comb.
It wasn’t always that way, and John Oller’s excellent Gangster Hunters is a stark lesson in how that caution developed. After Prohibition ended in 1933, the future of the FBI was uncertain. State legislators jealously guarded the role of local law enforcement in combatting crime. No one saw the reason for a powerful federal police force.
And they weren’t without decent arguments on their behalf. There were few federal crimes then. It wasn’t even a federal crime to assault or murder a federal agent. But kidnappers and bank robbers had an annoying way of refusing to remain within the jurisdiction of one county or state to await arrest and trial in state courts.
Gangster Hunters is the story of how federal criminal law began to evolve in response to interstate organized crime. Familiar names (and nicknames) appear — Machine Gun Kelly, Baby Face Nelson, John Dillinger, Bonnie and Clyde. Today, the notion of the same criminals kidnapping several wealthy business owners is well nigh unthinkable. In the 1930s, it happened pretty regularly. So did the tendency of desperate criminals to fire automatic weapons at “the law” — equally unthinkable today.
For all of his personal faults, J. Edgar Hoover, not the FBI’s first director but its first famous one, correctly saw that his organization needed to grow and develop its authority in order effectively to respond to this epidemic.
As the FBI grew, there were growing pains. As Oller shows, its agents had almost no idea how to arrest someone if that someone preferred not to be arrested. The agents barely knew how to shoot. (Today, regular range days are a requirement.) They trudged through the snow, in the dark Wisconsin winter, to a location to which they had never been, hoping for the best — with tragic consequences for civilians and agents alike. Oller writes of this scene, “it was out of the ashes of the firefights at that remote, snow-covered Wisconsin hideaway that the modern FBI was born.” They learned quickly from their mistakes, casing potential arrest scenes carefully to minimize the risk of harm.
However unfashionable it is to say, long sentences work. The deterrent effect of life imprisonment simply makes risky behavior less attractive. Organized violent crime persists, but today’s perpetrators are remarkably stupider — boasting of their feats on social media for clout — and are easily caught and prosecuted.
Gangster Hunters is a fascinating look at the heyday of outlawry in the United States. It is as much a chronicle of the development of federal law enforcement officers into who they are today: an elite group of intelligent, hardworking men and women rightly celebrated for their candor, professionalism, and respect for all citizens.
In fact, the hallmark of federal law enforcement today is caution. Much of their work, it may not surprise you to hear, consists of supervisors, approvals, approvals of approvals, and — the especial bane of agents with backgrounds as beat cops — mountains of paperwork. When the feds go to arrest someone on federal charges, they almost never do so without roping in the locals for backup, and their “ops plans” are gone over well in advance with a fine-toothed comb.
It wasn’t always that way, and John Oller’s excellent Gangster Hunters is a stark lesson in how that caution developed. After Prohibition ended in 1933, the future of the FBI was uncertain. State legislators jealously guarded the role of local law enforcement in combatting crime. No one saw the reason for a powerful federal police force.
And they weren’t without decent arguments on their behalf. There were few federal crimes then. It wasn’t even a federal crime to assault or murder a federal agent. But kidnappers and bank robbers had an annoying way of refusing to remain within the jurisdiction of one county or state to await arrest and trial in state courts.
Gangster Hunters is the story of how federal criminal law began to evolve in response to interstate organized crime. Familiar names (and nicknames) appear — Machine Gun Kelly, Baby Face Nelson, John Dillinger, Bonnie and Clyde. Today, the notion of the same criminals kidnapping several wealthy business owners is well nigh unthinkable. In the 1930s, it happened pretty regularly. So did the tendency of desperate criminals to fire automatic weapons at “the law” — equally unthinkable today.
For all of his personal faults, J. Edgar Hoover, not the FBI’s first director but its first famous one, correctly saw that his organization needed to grow and develop its authority in order effectively to respond to this epidemic.
As the FBI grew, there were growing pains. As Oller shows, its agents had almost no idea how to arrest someone if that someone preferred not to be arrested. The agents barely knew how to shoot. (Today, regular range days are a requirement.) They trudged through the snow, in the dark Wisconsin winter, to a location to which they had never been, hoping for the best — with tragic consequences for civilians and agents alike. Oller writes of this scene, “it was out of the ashes of the firefights at that remote, snow-covered Wisconsin hideaway that the modern FBI was born.” They learned quickly from their mistakes, casing potential arrest scenes carefully to minimize the risk of harm.
However unfashionable it is to say, long sentences work. The deterrent effect of life imprisonment simply makes risky behavior less attractive. Organized violent crime persists, but today’s perpetrators are remarkably stupider — boasting of their feats on social media for clout — and are easily caught and prosecuted.
Gangster Hunters is a fascinating look at the heyday of outlawry in the United States. It is as much a chronicle of the development of federal law enforcement officers into who they are today: an elite group of intelligent, hardworking men and women rightly celebrated for their candor, professionalism, and respect for all citizens.
November 29, 2024
Audiobook/Book Review 📖🎧🚨
thank you so much partner @duttonbooks @prhaudio for the gifted signed copy and audiobook.
Gangster Hunters: How Hoover's G-men Vanquished America's Deadliest Public
by John Oller
Narrated by Sean Patrick Hopkins
About the book 👇🏽
In 1932, the FBI lacked jurisdiction over murder cases, bank robberies, and kidnappings. Relegated to the sidelines, agents spent their days at their desks. But all of that changed during the War on Crime. Hunting down infamous public enemies in tense, frequently blood-soaked shootouts, the Bureau was thrust onto the front pages for the first time.
Young agents, fresh out of law school and anticipating a quiet, white-collar job, faced off with murderous felons who were heavily armed, clad in bulletproof vests, and owned cars that outraced the best vehicles the Bureau had. But the federal men were fiercely devoted—to the Bureau, to each other, and to bringing America’s most wanted criminals to justice.
The G-men crisscrossed the United States in pursuit of John Dillinger, Bonnie and Clyde, Ma Barker's criminal family, Baby Face Nelson, and Pretty Boy Floyd. But the green FBI agents were always one step behind and a moment too late, the criminals evading elaborate stakeouts and dramatic ambushes. Facing mounting criticism, with bodies left in their wake, the agents had to learn to adapt.
🚨 My thoughts:
Absolutely loved this! I mostly listened to the audiobook because that’s how I enjoy nonfiction for the most part but even if it wasn’t available to me, this is a book I’d be hooked by. This is fascinating and somehow even fast paced. What a time for crime and justice in the 1930s. Getting to learn more about the agents working the most infamous cases while hunting the most notorious criminals makes this a truly captivating read. You may know a lot about these criminals but it’s refreshing to also learn about the agents doing the grunt work to bring them to justice. Funny that most of them thought working for the FBI would be a quiet job… they had no idea what they were signing up for. I highly recommend giving this one a read! Gangster Hunters is out now!
Happy reading 📖🎧🚨
thank you so much partner @duttonbooks @prhaudio for the gifted signed copy and audiobook.
Gangster Hunters: How Hoover's G-men Vanquished America's Deadliest Public
by John Oller
Narrated by Sean Patrick Hopkins
About the book 👇🏽
In 1932, the FBI lacked jurisdiction over murder cases, bank robberies, and kidnappings. Relegated to the sidelines, agents spent their days at their desks. But all of that changed during the War on Crime. Hunting down infamous public enemies in tense, frequently blood-soaked shootouts, the Bureau was thrust onto the front pages for the first time.
Young agents, fresh out of law school and anticipating a quiet, white-collar job, faced off with murderous felons who were heavily armed, clad in bulletproof vests, and owned cars that outraced the best vehicles the Bureau had. But the federal men were fiercely devoted—to the Bureau, to each other, and to bringing America’s most wanted criminals to justice.
The G-men crisscrossed the United States in pursuit of John Dillinger, Bonnie and Clyde, Ma Barker's criminal family, Baby Face Nelson, and Pretty Boy Floyd. But the green FBI agents were always one step behind and a moment too late, the criminals evading elaborate stakeouts and dramatic ambushes. Facing mounting criticism, with bodies left in their wake, the agents had to learn to adapt.
🚨 My thoughts:
Absolutely loved this! I mostly listened to the audiobook because that’s how I enjoy nonfiction for the most part but even if it wasn’t available to me, this is a book I’d be hooked by. This is fascinating and somehow even fast paced. What a time for crime and justice in the 1930s. Getting to learn more about the agents working the most infamous cases while hunting the most notorious criminals makes this a truly captivating read. You may know a lot about these criminals but it’s refreshing to also learn about the agents doing the grunt work to bring them to justice. Funny that most of them thought working for the FBI would be a quiet job… they had no idea what they were signing up for. I highly recommend giving this one a read! Gangster Hunters is out now!
Happy reading 📖🎧🚨
December 5, 2024
This was a great read. I enjoyed learning about all the aspects and FBI people behind the scene so to speak that don't really get much acknowledgement in the movies for the public enemies from the 1930's. the writer did an amazing job with his research and telling this story.
December 6, 2024
Gangster Hunters
By John Oller
The book was interesting and educational. My favorite thing about a good book is when I learn something. Mr. Oller takes you back to the 1930’s and follows FBI agents chasing down all of the crime spree bandits. You will learn the stories of many agents, not only the most famous. While honoring them as heroes, Mr. Oller does not sugar coat mistakes made. Mistakes born of the fact the dedicated agents were nonetheless inexperienced for the most part. They learned the job the hard way, by doing.
You will also learn details about the bad guys… who are portrayed as just that, no glorifying here.
I would recommend.
By John Oller
The book was interesting and educational. My favorite thing about a good book is when I learn something. Mr. Oller takes you back to the 1930’s and follows FBI agents chasing down all of the crime spree bandits. You will learn the stories of many agents, not only the most famous. While honoring them as heroes, Mr. Oller does not sugar coat mistakes made. Mistakes born of the fact the dedicated agents were nonetheless inexperienced for the most part. They learned the job the hard way, by doing.
You will also learn details about the bad guys… who are portrayed as just that, no glorifying here.
I would recommend.
February 3, 2025
This is the story of the beginning of the FBI and the Midwest post prohibition crime wave with gangsters like Dillinger, Baby Face Nelson and Bonnie and Clyde. It also highlights how tracking criminals and solving crimes was done with very little technology. Very good read.
October 26, 2024
My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher Penguin Group Dutton for an advance copy of this history about the early days of the FBI when it turned from being a small part of the Justice Department, to the wide some would call over reaching law enforcement group that it is today.
For a country that spends as much money as it does on law enforcement, this nation sure does love its bad guys. Songs are written even entire genres in country music are filled with outlaw songs. Romances always have the protagonist thinking about the bad guy, rather than the safe good guy. Video games, comics all have bad guys doing great things. Politics is loaded with bad guys, winning the good people's votes. This is not a new phenomenon, brought on by a break down of morals or outside influences. During the 30's when banks were being robbed, people killed in shot outs between gangsters and law men, people clapped in theaters watching stories about this people. Banks were considered worse than the people who robbed them. Women wanted to be gangster girlfriends or molls, living lives of excitement and money. Into this lawless phase a man, J. Edgar Hoover, with dreams of power and control saw a place for a national police force, one that he would mold and control in his own image, and with his scathing reports. Gangster Hunters: How Hoover's G-men Vanquished America's Deadliest Public Enemies by writer and historian John Oller,tells of how the FBI came of age, learning from victories and mistakes, changing from accountants to gunslingers.
The 1930's were a difficult time in America. Prohibition was ended, an idea that instead of making a cleaner, more righteous people had led to criminal gangs, lots of police and political bribery and looser morals in people looking as alcohol became cool again. The Depression was still raging, people losing homes, and even their lives as banks seized farms and properties. Cars made it easy to rob a bank in Indiana and flee to other states, safe from arrest. Thompson BAR rifles, even machine pistols made by a gunsmith in Texas led to police being outgunned by determined robbers. Into this stepped J. Edgar Hoover, a man with a love of press, control, and a want for success. Using the many kidnappings that were happening, Lindbergh's son being the most popular, laws slowly began to change allowing for a government group to pursue criminals across state lines. The Bureau, which had gone through a few name changes, were mainly staffed by people like Hoover, accountants, lawyers, people familiar more with ledger book crimes and stolen cars, rather than bank robberies, or gangsters. And what a Rouge's Gallery there was. John Dillinger, Baby Face Nelson, Pretty Boy Floyd, and more. This group of investigators slowly changed from investigators to gun slingers, winning battles, making mistakes, but in the end always getting there man.
I never knew the role of states rights in the development, or even hindering of the start of a national police force. That is one of many fascinating things I learned in this book. So many people were afraid of a national police force, that many laws were just left to be forgotten, until so many rich and famous people were being kidnapped, the government had to do something. There was a lot more to this book than I expected. I thought this was more stories about good and bad guys clashing. However Oller is a much better writer than that. Oller does a lot of research, talking to members of the family, finding old FBI records and trying to get to the truth that has been lost in the propaganda history, or tall tales common among law enforcement, and criminals. There are tales of battles and arrests, but a lot more about the misery of being on the run, and more of being on stakeouts for days, and still missing one suspect. Oller has a you-are-there kind of style, that makes the pages go by, and really keeps on interested.
A very good book about the early days of the FBI with a lot of derring-do and information. Fans of history, law enforcement, true crime junkies will enjoy this quite a bit. Fans also of podcasts about this subject will also get a lot from it. This is the second book I have read by Oller, and I can't wait for more.
For a country that spends as much money as it does on law enforcement, this nation sure does love its bad guys. Songs are written even entire genres in country music are filled with outlaw songs. Romances always have the protagonist thinking about the bad guy, rather than the safe good guy. Video games, comics all have bad guys doing great things. Politics is loaded with bad guys, winning the good people's votes. This is not a new phenomenon, brought on by a break down of morals or outside influences. During the 30's when banks were being robbed, people killed in shot outs between gangsters and law men, people clapped in theaters watching stories about this people. Banks were considered worse than the people who robbed them. Women wanted to be gangster girlfriends or molls, living lives of excitement and money. Into this lawless phase a man, J. Edgar Hoover, with dreams of power and control saw a place for a national police force, one that he would mold and control in his own image, and with his scathing reports. Gangster Hunters: How Hoover's G-men Vanquished America's Deadliest Public Enemies by writer and historian John Oller,tells of how the FBI came of age, learning from victories and mistakes, changing from accountants to gunslingers.
The 1930's were a difficult time in America. Prohibition was ended, an idea that instead of making a cleaner, more righteous people had led to criminal gangs, lots of police and political bribery and looser morals in people looking as alcohol became cool again. The Depression was still raging, people losing homes, and even their lives as banks seized farms and properties. Cars made it easy to rob a bank in Indiana and flee to other states, safe from arrest. Thompson BAR rifles, even machine pistols made by a gunsmith in Texas led to police being outgunned by determined robbers. Into this stepped J. Edgar Hoover, a man with a love of press, control, and a want for success. Using the many kidnappings that were happening, Lindbergh's son being the most popular, laws slowly began to change allowing for a government group to pursue criminals across state lines. The Bureau, which had gone through a few name changes, were mainly staffed by people like Hoover, accountants, lawyers, people familiar more with ledger book crimes and stolen cars, rather than bank robberies, or gangsters. And what a Rouge's Gallery there was. John Dillinger, Baby Face Nelson, Pretty Boy Floyd, and more. This group of investigators slowly changed from investigators to gun slingers, winning battles, making mistakes, but in the end always getting there man.
I never knew the role of states rights in the development, or even hindering of the start of a national police force. That is one of many fascinating things I learned in this book. So many people were afraid of a national police force, that many laws were just left to be forgotten, until so many rich and famous people were being kidnapped, the government had to do something. There was a lot more to this book than I expected. I thought this was more stories about good and bad guys clashing. However Oller is a much better writer than that. Oller does a lot of research, talking to members of the family, finding old FBI records and trying to get to the truth that has been lost in the propaganda history, or tall tales common among law enforcement, and criminals. There are tales of battles and arrests, but a lot more about the misery of being on the run, and more of being on stakeouts for days, and still missing one suspect. Oller has a you-are-there kind of style, that makes the pages go by, and really keeps on interested.
A very good book about the early days of the FBI with a lot of derring-do and information. Fans of history, law enforcement, true crime junkies will enjoy this quite a bit. Fans also of podcasts about this subject will also get a lot from it. This is the second book I have read by Oller, and I can't wait for more.
January 3, 2025
Full review at: https://readingourshelves.wordpress.c...
This is a chunky non-fiction (the hardcover looks to be just over 500 pages), so buckle in.
When the Lindbergh kidnapping occurred, the FBI could not get involved because it had no jurisdiction over kidnappings. Within the next few years, that all changed. Some of the biggest robbers of the era were dabbling in kidnapping rich businessmen, because they knew their families had big coffers. But these were the same gangs pulling bank heists on the regular. After a few big name kidnappings, the FBI needed to get involved, because they felt like the men responsible were men they already wanted to catch for other crimes. Eventually, laws bent to allow their involvement, initially if the hostage was thought to have been taken across state lines.
So, that’s the set-up. But the real action comes after those first few kidnappings, as we get to learn more about all of these “public enemies.” As stated at top, the “War on Crime” lasted a few years. Within that time, men of the FBI went after the Barkers, Bonnie & Clyde, Baby Face Nelson, Machine Gun Kelly, and John Dillinger – not to mention all their associates, and often their families and girlfriends. A lot happened.
I hadn’t known much about the Barker clan before, although I’d heard the name “Ma Barker.” I found it interesting that, in addition to a few biopics in the early days, many fictitious characters are based on her- from Ma Beagle in “Duck Tales” and Mama Fratelli in “The Goonies” to Mags Bennett on “Justified.”
When the FBI started trying to find some of these characters, they didn’t even carry guns. But the bank robbers did, so eventually the FBI got a few. And some faster cars, too. A lot of the action took place in the Midwest – Chicago and St. Paul feature prominently – so J. Edgar Hoover (safely ensconced in D.C.) was only in charge of any of these missions from afar. He was often cited as being mad when the bad guys got away, but he only had “boots on the ground” for exactly one mission featured in this tome.
One factor that made tracking these robbers difficult was that a lot of the robberies and kidnappings overlapped. FBI agents would get pulled from one case to help out with another, just as they were getting close.
Another factor was that all the FBI men were pretty new at this. There wasn’t a manual on how to conduct a raid, as the ones in the book were among the first handful! And of course, they had no walkie-talkies or surveillance cameras. Wire-tapping involved listening in live (no recordings) to a party line by setting up in an adjacent apartment. These guys were writing the rules as they went, and the robbers got away from them a few times.
One thing that swayed their success rate, aside from buying more equipment, was hiring more agents. And, while the early agents were all university-educated, the newer agents were mostly hired for their shooting abilities.
This was a fun read, if you like cops & robbers action. Even though it’s a longer book, the action helps it move at a decent pace – and there are some pictures, too.
This is a chunky non-fiction (the hardcover looks to be just over 500 pages), so buckle in.
When the Lindbergh kidnapping occurred, the FBI could not get involved because it had no jurisdiction over kidnappings. Within the next few years, that all changed. Some of the biggest robbers of the era were dabbling in kidnapping rich businessmen, because they knew their families had big coffers. But these were the same gangs pulling bank heists on the regular. After a few big name kidnappings, the FBI needed to get involved, because they felt like the men responsible were men they already wanted to catch for other crimes. Eventually, laws bent to allow their involvement, initially if the hostage was thought to have been taken across state lines.
So, that’s the set-up. But the real action comes after those first few kidnappings, as we get to learn more about all of these “public enemies.” As stated at top, the “War on Crime” lasted a few years. Within that time, men of the FBI went after the Barkers, Bonnie & Clyde, Baby Face Nelson, Machine Gun Kelly, and John Dillinger – not to mention all their associates, and often their families and girlfriends. A lot happened.
I hadn’t known much about the Barker clan before, although I’d heard the name “Ma Barker.” I found it interesting that, in addition to a few biopics in the early days, many fictitious characters are based on her- from Ma Beagle in “Duck Tales” and Mama Fratelli in “The Goonies” to Mags Bennett on “Justified.”
When the FBI started trying to find some of these characters, they didn’t even carry guns. But the bank robbers did, so eventually the FBI got a few. And some faster cars, too. A lot of the action took place in the Midwest – Chicago and St. Paul feature prominently – so J. Edgar Hoover (safely ensconced in D.C.) was only in charge of any of these missions from afar. He was often cited as being mad when the bad guys got away, but he only had “boots on the ground” for exactly one mission featured in this tome.
One factor that made tracking these robbers difficult was that a lot of the robberies and kidnappings overlapped. FBI agents would get pulled from one case to help out with another, just as they were getting close.
Another factor was that all the FBI men were pretty new at this. There wasn’t a manual on how to conduct a raid, as the ones in the book were among the first handful! And of course, they had no walkie-talkies or surveillance cameras. Wire-tapping involved listening in live (no recordings) to a party line by setting up in an adjacent apartment. These guys were writing the rules as they went, and the robbers got away from them a few times.
One thing that swayed their success rate, aside from buying more equipment, was hiring more agents. And, while the early agents were all university-educated, the newer agents were mostly hired for their shooting abilities.
This was a fun read, if you like cops & robbers action. Even though it’s a longer book, the action helps it move at a decent pace – and there are some pictures, too.
September 24, 2024
Gangster Hunters recounts the stories of the men who, behind the scenes, led the charge against organized crime in the U.S., starting from the Prohibition era to the late 20th century. Oller focuses on the intersection between notorious criminals like Charles "Lucky" Luciano, Al Capone, and Meyer Lansky, and the often under-appreciated government agents and detectives who pursued them. He highlights iconic figures such as Eliot Ness, J. Edgar Hoover, and Thomas E. Dewey, painting a vivid picture of their successes, challenges, and moral compromises in their battle against the mob.
Oller doesn’t just retell familiar stories of famous mobsters. He also dives into the evolving tactics of law enforcement, charting the shift from basic police work to the more sophisticated investigations involving wiretapping, infiltration, and undercover operations. This detailed look at the innovation of crime-fighting tools alongside mob strategies makes the book feel dynamic and multi-dimensional.
What makes Gangster Hunters particularly compelling is Oller’s balanced portrayal of both sides of the law. He acknowledges the mythic status of mobsters but does not glamorize their violence or corruption. Likewise, the agents who fought against them are not presented as flawless heroes; their victories often come at personal and moral costs, revealing the complexity of the fight against organized crime.
Oller’s focus on the human element—the motivations, fears, and ethical dilemmas of both criminals and law enforcers—adds depth to what could have otherwise been a straightforward historical recounting. His research is thorough, and he draws from a wide range of sources, including court documents, FBI files, and interviews, providing a richly textured narrative. However, Oller doesn’t shy away from addressing the limitations of law enforcement, particularly in relation to corruption and the political hurdles that sometimes hindered justice.
While the book covers a vast timespan and a multitude of figures, at times, the narrative feels dense with information. Readers new to the history of organized crime may find the breadth of characters and events overwhelming. However, Oller’s engaging writing style keeps the momentum steady, and his ability to make historical events read like a thriller is impressive.
As a reader, I found Gangster Hunters both fascinating and enlightening. Oller’s take on the mob's evolution and the U.S. government’s evolving strategies in combating organized crime offered fresh insights, even for someone with a basic understanding of the subject. The book maintained my interest throughout, not just through its thrilling recount of events but through the author’s clear passion for the topic. The pacing, coupled with Oller’s talent for suspense, made this book a genuine page-turner. His attention to both the technical and human aspects of crime-fighting made for a well-rounded and deeply satisfying read.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher, provided through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Oller doesn’t just retell familiar stories of famous mobsters. He also dives into the evolving tactics of law enforcement, charting the shift from basic police work to the more sophisticated investigations involving wiretapping, infiltration, and undercover operations. This detailed look at the innovation of crime-fighting tools alongside mob strategies makes the book feel dynamic and multi-dimensional.
What makes Gangster Hunters particularly compelling is Oller’s balanced portrayal of both sides of the law. He acknowledges the mythic status of mobsters but does not glamorize their violence or corruption. Likewise, the agents who fought against them are not presented as flawless heroes; their victories often come at personal and moral costs, revealing the complexity of the fight against organized crime.
Oller’s focus on the human element—the motivations, fears, and ethical dilemmas of both criminals and law enforcers—adds depth to what could have otherwise been a straightforward historical recounting. His research is thorough, and he draws from a wide range of sources, including court documents, FBI files, and interviews, providing a richly textured narrative. However, Oller doesn’t shy away from addressing the limitations of law enforcement, particularly in relation to corruption and the political hurdles that sometimes hindered justice.
While the book covers a vast timespan and a multitude of figures, at times, the narrative feels dense with information. Readers new to the history of organized crime may find the breadth of characters and events overwhelming. However, Oller’s engaging writing style keeps the momentum steady, and his ability to make historical events read like a thriller is impressive.
As a reader, I found Gangster Hunters both fascinating and enlightening. Oller’s take on the mob's evolution and the U.S. government’s evolving strategies in combating organized crime offered fresh insights, even for someone with a basic understanding of the subject. The book maintained my interest throughout, not just through its thrilling recount of events but through the author’s clear passion for the topic. The pacing, coupled with Oller’s talent for suspense, made this book a genuine page-turner. His attention to both the technical and human aspects of crime-fighting made for a well-rounded and deeply satisfying read.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher, provided through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
November 25, 2024
It's been 90 years since John Dillinger was gunned down outside the Biograph Theater in Chicago. Give or take a few years, it's been 90 years since Pretty Boy Floyd, Baby Face Nelson, Machine Gun Kelly, and Bonnie & Clyde were gunned down. All were bank robbers, some were kidnappers, and some were far more bloodthirsty than others. And 90 years later, these thieves and robbers are fully part of American history in a way one has to doubt even they ever thought possible.
Hollywood has immortalized them, of course, over and over again for the last 90 years.
But perhaps even more, it's the men who were trying to catch them who have made them impossible to forget. J. Edgar Hoover, a decade or so into his decades long stranglehold on the FBI, played a large role in making sure we never forget them by labeling them 'Public Enemies' and begging, borrowing, and demanding every more power in the hunt for them.
John Oller's history of the criminals, the ones Americans fresh out of Prohibition and at the height of the Great Depression cheered for when they were featured on newsreels in movie theaters, and of the G-men who hunted them is all-encompassing. The cast of real life characters is immense and they are all involved in crossover stories and individual ones too. It is to Oller's credit that it's easy to remember who was where and did what to who, because he is able to bring them all to life as he tells their stories. Never once did I feel lost about passing mentions of past encounters.
History is important, and this story was an important one to tell. Oller fact-checks many of the popular conspiracy theories about J. Edgar Hoover and he does not hold back in stating the knowns of the sometimes less than politically correct, even in the 1930s, methods that were used to get information that would get them to capturing Public Enemies. No sides are taken by the author, the story is simply told.
And it's a larger story too, of an America struggling to find footing between two world wars. So even if we end up as thrilled to watch Johnny Depp play Dillinger (as he did in 2009's 'Public Enemies), we need to remember these stories too. There will always be government and there will always be those who break the law for their own game and end up in a game of cat-and-mouse with the government (just look at Robin Hood or the Golden Age of Piracy). And the lawbreakers will be cheered by some, especially when the lives of the ordinary citizens are not easy, and the government will not like that.
I knew things about the so-called 'public enemies' of the early 1930s, I thought I knew a lot. I know far, far more now and I am so happy that I do. And at 512 pages, I'm sure there are bits I missed so it will be easy to read this book again.
--------
I received an early copy of GANGSTER HUNTERS through NetGalley and Dutton in exchange only for an honest review.
Hollywood has immortalized them, of course, over and over again for the last 90 years.
But perhaps even more, it's the men who were trying to catch them who have made them impossible to forget. J. Edgar Hoover, a decade or so into his decades long stranglehold on the FBI, played a large role in making sure we never forget them by labeling them 'Public Enemies' and begging, borrowing, and demanding every more power in the hunt for them.
John Oller's history of the criminals, the ones Americans fresh out of Prohibition and at the height of the Great Depression cheered for when they were featured on newsreels in movie theaters, and of the G-men who hunted them is all-encompassing. The cast of real life characters is immense and they are all involved in crossover stories and individual ones too. It is to Oller's credit that it's easy to remember who was where and did what to who, because he is able to bring them all to life as he tells their stories. Never once did I feel lost about passing mentions of past encounters.
History is important, and this story was an important one to tell. Oller fact-checks many of the popular conspiracy theories about J. Edgar Hoover and he does not hold back in stating the knowns of the sometimes less than politically correct, even in the 1930s, methods that were used to get information that would get them to capturing Public Enemies. No sides are taken by the author, the story is simply told.
And it's a larger story too, of an America struggling to find footing between two world wars. So even if we end up as thrilled to watch Johnny Depp play Dillinger (as he did in 2009's 'Public Enemies), we need to remember these stories too. There will always be government and there will always be those who break the law for their own game and end up in a game of cat-and-mouse with the government (just look at Robin Hood or the Golden Age of Piracy). And the lawbreakers will be cheered by some, especially when the lives of the ordinary citizens are not easy, and the government will not like that.
I knew things about the so-called 'public enemies' of the early 1930s, I thought I knew a lot. I know far, far more now and I am so happy that I do. And at 512 pages, I'm sure there are bits I missed so it will be easy to read this book again.
--------
I received an early copy of GANGSTER HUNTERS through NetGalley and Dutton in exchange only for an honest review.
January 25, 2025
This is a bit of a dense read (lots of details) so be warned.
The book highlights the transformation of the FBI under J. Edgar Hoover's leadership, focusing on how young agents, many fresh out of law school, faced off against heavily armed felons. (The FBI agents didn't carry guns in the beginning and so would need to bring in local police for various raids and other activities).
Oller takes readers on a journey into what we now probably consider the heyday of organized crime in America from the perspective of the dedicated law enforcement officers who worked to dismantle it. This meticulously researched book delves into the careers of the "G-Men," a group of elite federal agents who rose to prominence during this era, and yet, we rarely known their names as history has tended to glorify or romanticize the gangster.
The book balances historical detail with compelling storytelling, offering vivid portraits of figures like Elmer Irey, the Treasury Intelligence Unit’s leader, whose innovative techniques paved the way for modern crime-fighting. There is mention of the groundbreaking use of forensic accounting, undercover operations, and collaboration between government agencies—strategies that would ultimately lead to the takedown of the likes of Al Capone.
One of the book's highlights is how it situates the agents within the larger law enforcement landscape, offering insights into the early days of the FBI and its role in combating organized crime. Oller provides background on how these agencies came together to tackle notorious criminals like John Dillinger, Bonnie and Clyde, Baby Face Nelson, and other infamous figures of the era. By detailing the efforts of those on the side of the law in these famous cases, the book gives readers a fuller picture of how these pivotal battles shaped the future of federal crime-fighting in America.
What makes this book stand out for me, is the author's ability to humanize law enforcement agents and their criminal adversaries. He paints a vivid picture of the challenges, dangers, and moral ambiguities faced by these agents as they worked to outwit and outlast their opponents. At the same time, Oller contextualizes the rise of organized crime as a symptom of the economic and social upheavals of the era, giving readers a better understanding of the times.
Fans of true crime, history, and tales of underdog victories will find Gangster Hunters an absorbing read. It’s a tribute to the unsung heroes who worked behind the scenes to bring order to an increasingly lawless time in America’s history. While the book is rich in detail, some readers might find the exhaustive coverage of investigations a bit dense.
Overall, this is a riveting, well-written, and deeply informative account of a pivotal chapter in American history.
The book highlights the transformation of the FBI under J. Edgar Hoover's leadership, focusing on how young agents, many fresh out of law school, faced off against heavily armed felons. (The FBI agents didn't carry guns in the beginning and so would need to bring in local police for various raids and other activities).
Oller takes readers on a journey into what we now probably consider the heyday of organized crime in America from the perspective of the dedicated law enforcement officers who worked to dismantle it. This meticulously researched book delves into the careers of the "G-Men," a group of elite federal agents who rose to prominence during this era, and yet, we rarely known their names as history has tended to glorify or romanticize the gangster.
The book balances historical detail with compelling storytelling, offering vivid portraits of figures like Elmer Irey, the Treasury Intelligence Unit’s leader, whose innovative techniques paved the way for modern crime-fighting. There is mention of the groundbreaking use of forensic accounting, undercover operations, and collaboration between government agencies—strategies that would ultimately lead to the takedown of the likes of Al Capone.
One of the book's highlights is how it situates the agents within the larger law enforcement landscape, offering insights into the early days of the FBI and its role in combating organized crime. Oller provides background on how these agencies came together to tackle notorious criminals like John Dillinger, Bonnie and Clyde, Baby Face Nelson, and other infamous figures of the era. By detailing the efforts of those on the side of the law in these famous cases, the book gives readers a fuller picture of how these pivotal battles shaped the future of federal crime-fighting in America.
What makes this book stand out for me, is the author's ability to humanize law enforcement agents and their criminal adversaries. He paints a vivid picture of the challenges, dangers, and moral ambiguities faced by these agents as they worked to outwit and outlast their opponents. At the same time, Oller contextualizes the rise of organized crime as a symptom of the economic and social upheavals of the era, giving readers a better understanding of the times.
Fans of true crime, history, and tales of underdog victories will find Gangster Hunters an absorbing read. It’s a tribute to the unsung heroes who worked behind the scenes to bring order to an increasingly lawless time in America’s history. While the book is rich in detail, some readers might find the exhaustive coverage of investigations a bit dense.
Overall, this is a riveting, well-written, and deeply informative account of a pivotal chapter in American history.
October 6, 2024
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.
Gangster Hunters: How Hoover’s G-men Vanquished America’s Deadliest Public Enemies by John Oller is a riveting dive into the tumultuous era of the 1930s, when the FBI’s G-men took on America’s most notorious criminals. Oller, a seasoned historian, brings to life the high-stakes cat-and-mouse game between law enforcement and gangsters, painting a vivid picture of the birth of the modern FBI.
The book meticulously chronicles the rise of J. Edgar Hoover and his transformation of the Bureau of Investigation into a formidable force. Hoover’s G-men, often young and fresh out of law school, were thrust into a world of violence and danger, facing off against heavily armed felons. Oller’s narrative is both thrilling and informative, providing a detailed account of the strategies and operations that led to the downfall of these infamous criminals.
Oller delves into the personal stories of these men, highlighting their bravery and dedication. The book is filled with tense, action-packed scenes that read like a Hollywood thriller, yet are grounded in historical accuracy. Oller’s research is impeccable, drawing from a wealth of primary sources to provide a comprehensive view of this pivotal period in American history.
The book also explores the broader social and political context of the time, examining how the Great Depression and Prohibition contributed to the rise of organized crime. Oller deftly weaves these elements into the narrative, offering readers a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by law enforcement. The portrayal of Hoover is nuanced, acknowledging his significant contributions while also critiquing his methods and the cult of personality that surrounded him.
Gangster Hunters is not just a tale of crime and punishment; it is a study of the evolution of American law enforcement. Oller’s writing is engaging and accessible, making complex historical events understandable and compelling. His ability to humanize the G-men, while also providing a critical analysis of their actions, sets this book apart from other works on the subject.
In conclusion, Gangster Hunters: How Hoover’s G-men Vanquished America’s Deadliest Public Enemies is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of the FBI, organized crime, or the 1930s. John Oller has crafted a masterful narrative that is both educational and entertaining, shedding light on a fascinating chapter of American history. Whether you’re a history buff or a fan of true crime, this book is sure to captivate and inform.
Gangster Hunters: How Hoover’s G-men Vanquished America’s Deadliest Public Enemies by John Oller is a riveting dive into the tumultuous era of the 1930s, when the FBI’s G-men took on America’s most notorious criminals. Oller, a seasoned historian, brings to life the high-stakes cat-and-mouse game between law enforcement and gangsters, painting a vivid picture of the birth of the modern FBI.
The book meticulously chronicles the rise of J. Edgar Hoover and his transformation of the Bureau of Investigation into a formidable force. Hoover’s G-men, often young and fresh out of law school, were thrust into a world of violence and danger, facing off against heavily armed felons. Oller’s narrative is both thrilling and informative, providing a detailed account of the strategies and operations that led to the downfall of these infamous criminals.
Oller delves into the personal stories of these men, highlighting their bravery and dedication. The book is filled with tense, action-packed scenes that read like a Hollywood thriller, yet are grounded in historical accuracy. Oller’s research is impeccable, drawing from a wealth of primary sources to provide a comprehensive view of this pivotal period in American history.
The book also explores the broader social and political context of the time, examining how the Great Depression and Prohibition contributed to the rise of organized crime. Oller deftly weaves these elements into the narrative, offering readers a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by law enforcement. The portrayal of Hoover is nuanced, acknowledging his significant contributions while also critiquing his methods and the cult of personality that surrounded him.
Gangster Hunters is not just a tale of crime and punishment; it is a study of the evolution of American law enforcement. Oller’s writing is engaging and accessible, making complex historical events understandable and compelling. His ability to humanize the G-men, while also providing a critical analysis of their actions, sets this book apart from other works on the subject.
In conclusion, Gangster Hunters: How Hoover’s G-men Vanquished America’s Deadliest Public Enemies is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of the FBI, organized crime, or the 1930s. John Oller has crafted a masterful narrative that is both educational and entertaining, shedding light on a fascinating chapter of American history. Whether you’re a history buff or a fan of true crime, this book is sure to captivate and inform.
August 29, 2024
With frequent bank robberies and the kidnapping of prominent businessmen, America in the 1930s was a surprisingly lawless place. Enter the Federal Bureau of Investigation, as lead by J. Edgar Hoover. For all his administrative savvy, Hoover was a fragile and egocentric man who sought to keep his agents out of the public eye. But they were the boots on the ground, tracking down and capturing notorious gangsters. Bonnie and Clyde, Baby Face Nelson, John Dillinger, their names ring down the corridors of history.
Local law enforcement was more likely to be in cahoots with the criminals, though, so as the 1930s proceeded, the FBI was gradually granted more powers and became the premiere law enforcement agency in the United States. The exploits of these young men, inadequately trained for dangerous fieldwork, was just as often characterized by embarrassing miscommunication and failure, though, eventually, and with sometimes shocking collateral damage, they did generally get their man.
Author John Oller has written a very engaging and exciting tale of the most important decade in the history of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with a tight focus on 1933-1936 when they relentlessly pursued "Public Enemy No 1" (who kept changing as the culprit was caught or, more often, killed by agents). FBI agents lost their lives during this period too, as Oller also explores.
There's lots to like about this comprehensive and exciting history, an eminently readable book. The fly in the proverbial ointment is that Oller also seems to have a bit of a chip on his shoulder about other authors who've covered this historical era, with often snarky parenthetical "corrections" on the spelling of names and other relative trivia. After a while it gets off-putting and is certainly unnecessary; readers don't actually care whether someone spelled their name with an extra "e" or not, though obviously getting it right is important. Perhaps in a future edition the publisher could extract all of these snippy asides and push them into an Afterword?
[[ Disclosure: I received a pre-publication copy of this book from the publisher in return for this candid review. ]]
Local law enforcement was more likely to be in cahoots with the criminals, though, so as the 1930s proceeded, the FBI was gradually granted more powers and became the premiere law enforcement agency in the United States. The exploits of these young men, inadequately trained for dangerous fieldwork, was just as often characterized by embarrassing miscommunication and failure, though, eventually, and with sometimes shocking collateral damage, they did generally get their man.
Author John Oller has written a very engaging and exciting tale of the most important decade in the history of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with a tight focus on 1933-1936 when they relentlessly pursued "Public Enemy No 1" (who kept changing as the culprit was caught or, more often, killed by agents). FBI agents lost their lives during this period too, as Oller also explores.
There's lots to like about this comprehensive and exciting history, an eminently readable book. The fly in the proverbial ointment is that Oller also seems to have a bit of a chip on his shoulder about other authors who've covered this historical era, with often snarky parenthetical "corrections" on the spelling of names and other relative trivia. After a while it gets off-putting and is certainly unnecessary; readers don't actually care whether someone spelled their name with an extra "e" or not, though obviously getting it right is important. Perhaps in a future edition the publisher could extract all of these snippy asides and push them into an Afterword?
[[ Disclosure: I received a pre-publication copy of this book from the publisher in return for this candid review. ]]
May 17, 2024
4.5/5 stars. John Oller's 'Gangster Hunters' was a fascinating account of the FBI's War on Crime, which served as the inception of the FBI as we know it today. Oller details the critical few years in which the bureau necessarily evolved in order to track down and apprehend famous gangsters like Bonnie & Clyde, Baby Face Nelson, and Pretty Boy Floyd.
Perhaps this is well-known, but the FBI began as an organization riddled with young, middle/upper-class, law-school graduates who had zero qualifications to serve as FBI agents (at least those we're familiar with in present-day). Contextualized by the Great Depression, the FBI served as an ideal opportunity for a well-paying desk job with a prestigious title - yet these young men were met with quite the surprise when J. Edgar Hoover turned the FBI into a frontline crime-fighting organization. What was most fascinating, to me, was reading these accounts of ill-equipped young men fumbling investigations - particularly when compared to modern day stories of the FBI, like those portrayed through shows like Criminal Minds.
Despite being a non-fiction, Oller's writing style allows this book to read more like a fiction. I'm generally a fan of non-fictions, but am able to recognize that many non-fictions can be difficult to get through. Instead, I found myself drawn to this book, unable to put it down.
I would definitely recommend this book to others, especially history buffs - in fact, I'm planning to gift this book once it's published. Thank you, NetGalley and Penguin Random House for this ARC!
Perhaps this is well-known, but the FBI began as an organization riddled with young, middle/upper-class, law-school graduates who had zero qualifications to serve as FBI agents (at least those we're familiar with in present-day). Contextualized by the Great Depression, the FBI served as an ideal opportunity for a well-paying desk job with a prestigious title - yet these young men were met with quite the surprise when J. Edgar Hoover turned the FBI into a frontline crime-fighting organization. What was most fascinating, to me, was reading these accounts of ill-equipped young men fumbling investigations - particularly when compared to modern day stories of the FBI, like those portrayed through shows like Criminal Minds.
Despite being a non-fiction, Oller's writing style allows this book to read more like a fiction. I'm generally a fan of non-fictions, but am able to recognize that many non-fictions can be difficult to get through. Instead, I found myself drawn to this book, unable to put it down.
I would definitely recommend this book to others, especially history buffs - in fact, I'm planning to gift this book once it's published. Thank you, NetGalley and Penguin Random House for this ARC!
May 23, 2024
5 stars
This is a very good book. It is filled with facts, personalities and some very audacious crimes.
At the inception of the FBI (only later renamed to FBI), the agency did not have arrest powers. They did not catch violent criminals or kidnappers. They were empowered to investigate white collar crimes.
However, that changed in 1933 when a “War on Crime” was proclaimed by the government. During the years between 1933 and 1936, the FBI chased, captured and killed (and were killed), many, many “public enemies.” Pretty Boy Floyd, Baby Face Nelson, Ma Barker, Bonnie & Clyde and John Dillinger were just a few of the miscreants and killers the FBI caught and/or killed. They also worked and solved some high profile kidnappings.
The Bureau had arrived. They made the front pages of newspapers, they were the subjects of radio programs. They were proclaimed heroes in pulp fiction. As a group the men (no women allowed at that time), were intelligent, dedicated and wholly devoted to their jobs. My feelings for Hoover aside, they were a group of individuals to be admired.
Mr. Oller tells a good story. The book is not at all dry or difficult to follow. The author takes the reader on an informative and fascinating journey. I liked this book very much and recommend it to anyone who enjoys the history of law enforcement, true crime, or American history.
I want to thank NetGalley and PENGUIN GROUP Dutton/ Dutton for forwarding to me a copy of this very entertaining book for me to read, enjoy and review. The opinions expressed in this review are solely my own.
This is a very good book. It is filled with facts, personalities and some very audacious crimes.
At the inception of the FBI (only later renamed to FBI), the agency did not have arrest powers. They did not catch violent criminals or kidnappers. They were empowered to investigate white collar crimes.
However, that changed in 1933 when a “War on Crime” was proclaimed by the government. During the years between 1933 and 1936, the FBI chased, captured and killed (and were killed), many, many “public enemies.” Pretty Boy Floyd, Baby Face Nelson, Ma Barker, Bonnie & Clyde and John Dillinger were just a few of the miscreants and killers the FBI caught and/or killed. They also worked and solved some high profile kidnappings.
The Bureau had arrived. They made the front pages of newspapers, they were the subjects of radio programs. They were proclaimed heroes in pulp fiction. As a group the men (no women allowed at that time), were intelligent, dedicated and wholly devoted to their jobs. My feelings for Hoover aside, they were a group of individuals to be admired.
Mr. Oller tells a good story. The book is not at all dry or difficult to follow. The author takes the reader on an informative and fascinating journey. I liked this book very much and recommend it to anyone who enjoys the history of law enforcement, true crime, or American history.
I want to thank NetGalley and PENGUIN GROUP Dutton/ Dutton for forwarding to me a copy of this very entertaining book for me to read, enjoy and review. The opinions expressed in this review are solely my own.
March 13, 2025
Thank you to @prhaudio and @duttonbooks for this audiobook. All thoughts are my own.
I found Ganster Hunters to be a thrilling and insightful look into the transformation of the FBI during the War on Crime. I was fascinated by the contrast between the Bureau's early role, limited to investigating white-collar crimes, and its dramatic evolution as agents faced off against infamous gangsters like John Dillinger and Bonnie and Clyde. I appreciated how the book vividly portrayed the challenges these young agents faced, from confronting heavily armed criminals to adapting to public criticism. I admired the dedication and bravery of the federal agents, and I found myself immersed in their relentless pursuit of justice, despite being outgunned and outpaced at almost every turn. I enjoyed how the narrative brought the tension of the 1930s to life, making me feel like I was right there during the high-stakes raids and shootouts. I also found the book's focus on the agents' camaraderie and determination to be both moving and inspiring. I learned so much about the history of the FBI and the pivotal role these agents played in shaping its identity.
I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in true crime, history, or stories of courage and perseverance.
I found Ganster Hunters to be a thrilling and insightful look into the transformation of the FBI during the War on Crime. I was fascinated by the contrast between the Bureau's early role, limited to investigating white-collar crimes, and its dramatic evolution as agents faced off against infamous gangsters like John Dillinger and Bonnie and Clyde. I appreciated how the book vividly portrayed the challenges these young agents faced, from confronting heavily armed criminals to adapting to public criticism. I admired the dedication and bravery of the federal agents, and I found myself immersed in their relentless pursuit of justice, despite being outgunned and outpaced at almost every turn. I enjoyed how the narrative brought the tension of the 1930s to life, making me feel like I was right there during the high-stakes raids and shootouts. I also found the book's focus on the agents' camaraderie and determination to be both moving and inspiring. I learned so much about the history of the FBI and the pivotal role these agents played in shaping its identity.
I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in true crime, history, or stories of courage and perseverance.
September 23, 2024
I enjoy true crime stories so when this book came my way, I decided to jump in. I was intrigued by the stories of the early days of the FBI in this book, like in Killers of the Flower Moon.
This book went into detail about the capture of the infamous public enemies of the 1930s. I had heard all of these names before - Baby Face Nelson, John Dillinger, Bonnie & Clyde. I didn't realize that they all were wreaking havoc across the country all at the same time.
The FBI's strategies from this time period were interesting. The capture or killing of these public enemies predated the protocol that you see today in law enforcement. It kind of felt like the wild wild west in many senses.
I enjoyed the detective work featured in this book and how these agents followed bread crumbs and tips to lead them to the assailant. I also liked a look into the inside of the FBI - the politics and drama were just as interesting as the capture of the bad guys.
The stories bogged down in details at some points, but overall, I liked the book.
I received a complimentary eARC from the publisher.
This book went into detail about the capture of the infamous public enemies of the 1930s. I had heard all of these names before - Baby Face Nelson, John Dillinger, Bonnie & Clyde. I didn't realize that they all were wreaking havoc across the country all at the same time.
The FBI's strategies from this time period were interesting. The capture or killing of these public enemies predated the protocol that you see today in law enforcement. It kind of felt like the wild wild west in many senses.
I enjoyed the detective work featured in this book and how these agents followed bread crumbs and tips to lead them to the assailant. I also liked a look into the inside of the FBI - the politics and drama were just as interesting as the capture of the bad guys.
The stories bogged down in details at some points, but overall, I liked the book.
I received a complimentary eARC from the publisher.
January 9, 2025
This story has a few different parts but they are all together. It opens with the Linberg kidnapping and how the F.B.I. a new government agency started and run by J. Edgar Hoover wants to put his agency out in the press. But it and he has no authority. It will take more kidnappings which are explained at the beginning of the book before the authority is given to the F.B.I.While he is fighting with that at the same time bank robberies begin and he begins to send agents after them as well. He wants people captured no matter what. Melvin Purvis is hired and becomes the lead agent in Chicago and is influential in the Dillinger and Pretty Boy Floyd capture and killing. Though he takes no credit Hoover is still upset with him. The author then goes into the Bonnie and Clyde shot out. The author then goes back to the man who had gotten away earlier in the book Alvin Karpis who was also Public enemy number one for a long time/ he goes into his story and capture and how he came to serve the longest time at Alcatraz. A very interesting book and though I had heard and knew of some of the stories the author goes into more detail. Very much worth the read.
November 27, 2024
Good Evening Fellow Book Dragons,
This Evening's Gem came to me in an old man's handkerchief with the initials 'J.E.H.' I untied it and a bullet, a badge and a pair of handcuffs fell out. Then the badge began to spin pouring forth the tale.
This is first time Dragon Feeder John Oller's "Gangster Hunter's" . Clear your evening, put on a pot of coffee or tea and get comfortable, you're about to go on a wild ride. John Oller's "Gangster Hunters" is the best book I have ever read on the creation of the FBI.
He takes us on an intimate tour of the birth and quick maturing of the FBI while they hunt down names the True Crime Fan will instantly recognize: Baby Face Nelson, Pretty Boy Floyd, Ma Barker and her Boys, Bonnie and Clyde and many more!
These hoodlums and gangs were where Hoover's men cut their teeth. If you only read one True Crime Historical Novel this year, make it this one. I plan to gift a copy to a fellow afficionado for Christmas. She's gonna love it!
This Evening's Gem came to me in an old man's handkerchief with the initials 'J.E.H.' I untied it and a bullet, a badge and a pair of handcuffs fell out. Then the badge began to spin pouring forth the tale.
This is first time Dragon Feeder John Oller's "Gangster Hunter's" . Clear your evening, put on a pot of coffee or tea and get comfortable, you're about to go on a wild ride. John Oller's "Gangster Hunters" is the best book I have ever read on the creation of the FBI.
He takes us on an intimate tour of the birth and quick maturing of the FBI while they hunt down names the True Crime Fan will instantly recognize: Baby Face Nelson, Pretty Boy Floyd, Ma Barker and her Boys, Bonnie and Clyde and many more!
These hoodlums and gangs were where Hoover's men cut their teeth. If you only read one True Crime Historical Novel this year, make it this one. I plan to gift a copy to a fellow afficionado for Christmas. She's gonna love it!
January 20, 2025
What an explosive read!
I actually finished this book several weeks ago, but trying to figure out exactly what I wanted to say was the hardest part. During my college years, I wrote a paper on the FBI and Crime in the 1930s. Reading through this book brought back that paper. But I could not put this one down! I literally read through it in one sitting.
Kick back and take a walk with some of the high profile criminals of the 1930s, with the FBI agents who are attempting to track them down. With the limited scope of the FBI in the early years, there were a lot of challenges to overcome. The lack of technology, tried and true methods, and firm teams also crippled the agents in other ways. Hoover was another stopper. While he was brilliant, he was sometimes a stopper for the agency, keeping the credit from going to the correct person.
Gangster Hunters is a amazing and eye-opening read. I highly encourage those who are interested in history and true crime to check it out.
I actually finished this book several weeks ago, but trying to figure out exactly what I wanted to say was the hardest part. During my college years, I wrote a paper on the FBI and Crime in the 1930s. Reading through this book brought back that paper. But I could not put this one down! I literally read through it in one sitting.
Kick back and take a walk with some of the high profile criminals of the 1930s, with the FBI agents who are attempting to track them down. With the limited scope of the FBI in the early years, there were a lot of challenges to overcome. The lack of technology, tried and true methods, and firm teams also crippled the agents in other ways. Hoover was another stopper. While he was brilliant, he was sometimes a stopper for the agency, keeping the credit from going to the correct person.
Gangster Hunters is a amazing and eye-opening read. I highly encourage those who are interested in history and true crime to check it out.
September 18, 2025
A well-researched, detail saturated telling of the FBI’s war on the Public Enemies of the 1930s, straight to the last man. Olier brings to life every character, agent or criminal, and a host of those who were caught up in this Depression-era war on crime. Many previously unknown heroes at the Bureau and local police finally get their due in catching or helping to catch the kidnappers, robbers and murderers named Public Enemies. Some known heroes of this era may see a bit of tarnish on their reputations, but likewise, the unsung and largely unknown heroes will finally get their due credit.
One recommendation: keep a scorecard of the agents, criminals and locals. Olie ties everything up very neatly in the end, but it can be hard to keep track of everybody.
One recommendation: keep a scorecard of the agents, criminals and locals. Olie ties everything up very neatly in the end, but it can be hard to keep track of everybody.
January 20, 2025
A robust, accessible and diligently researched account of the FBI’s “war on crime” during the mid-1930s. Oller’s book wins out for three reasons: it focuses on the unsung and almost forgotten agents who actually took down the likes of Baby Face Nelson, Pretty Boy Floyd and John Dillinger rather than the prissy, petty narcissist (J. Edgar Hoover) who shamelessly tried to steal every bit of credit; it’s clear sighted enough to document, unflinchingly, that the Bureau had more than its share of abject failures during this period; and it unsentimentally maps out the human cost to these agents - and to the bereaved families of those who paid the ultimate price for their director’s hubris.
December 13, 2024
I regret that I was a terrible history student. As an adult I have grown to love history.
This book covers J Edgar Hoover and the beginnings of the FBI.
Hoover had a vendetta against the ruthless gangs who were brutally robbing banks and trains and constantly escaping the hand of the law. Some of the law makers were actually dirty, secretly involved with the wealthy gangsters.
The FBI had a rough learning curve to figure out how to capture or kill these ruthless criminals as they seemed unstoppable.
This book covers J Edgar Hoover and the beginnings of the FBI.
Hoover had a vendetta against the ruthless gangs who were brutally robbing banks and trains and constantly escaping the hand of the law. Some of the law makers were actually dirty, secretly involved with the wealthy gangsters.
The FBI had a rough learning curve to figure out how to capture or kill these ruthless criminals as they seemed unstoppable.
December 17, 2024
This book was very easy to read, as Oller has a talent for presenting this type of history in narrative form, while still informing the reader with relevant facts. I was fascinated with the history of the early FBI and the agents who hunted down the first Public Enemies from the 1930s. It was interesting to see how many of these felons worked together, knew each other, and complimented each other's crimes. It was even more incredible to see the growth and adaptability of the "G-Men" responsible for tracking them down. Well researched, written and presented.
January 12, 2025
[4.5] wow wow wow, if you are looking for an in depth, fast paced look at the FBIs war on crime, this is the one. I listened to this book and when I saw it was 13 hours long, I thought I would surely get halfway through and give up.. but I was wrong. This book kept me captivated from start to finish. You can tell how much thorough research has gone into this while the author and narrators worked to successfully keep it interesting.
If you enjoy true crime podcasts, gangster movies or just like learning a little more about the history of crime, I would strongly recommend this.
If you enjoy true crime podcasts, gangster movies or just like learning a little more about the history of crime, I would strongly recommend this.
May 13, 2025
A very good book about the famous bank robbers and kidnappers of the early and mid 1930's and how the FBI went from a minor organization into a formidable crime fighting unit. This book starts with the Kansas City massacre and goes on to Bonnie and Clyde, Baby Face Nelson, Pretty Boy Floyd, John Dillinger, "Doc" Barker, Fred Barker, Ma Barker and Alvin Karpis. It is well researched and well written. If you are interested in the famous (or infamous) criminals roaming the mid west during the early and mid 1930's, this is a great book for you.
September 29, 2025
If moblife, GMen, or even just the history of politics in the US is something that interests you, this book is for you. I've been a huge history buff for as long as I can remember and I've seen most documentaries about the original gangsters and the FBIs most wanted list that are out there. This book pieced everything together so nicely to really show how entangled it really all was instead of focusing on just one specific criminal or gang. It gave credit to Agents that were never individually recognized for their dedication and sacrafices. Absolutely worth the read!
July 19, 2024
Thanks to John Oller, Penguin Group Dutton, and NetGalley for access to the Advanced Reader Copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This is a very readable and comprehensive account of the gangster era. It’s clear the author has done considerable research (as noted by the extensive notes and bibliography in the back of the book) and he has used that research to great effect.
This is a very interesting and well-done book about a fascinating time in US history. Recommended.
This is a very readable and comprehensive account of the gangster era. It’s clear the author has done considerable research (as noted by the extensive notes and bibliography in the back of the book) and he has used that research to great effect.
This is a very interesting and well-done book about a fascinating time in US history. Recommended.
November 26, 2024
Gangster Hunters: How Hoover's G-Men Vanquished America's Deadliest Public Enemies by John Oller an interesting book. I had no idea about the history of the FBI. It was interesting to read about both the capture of notorious criminals as well as the police and evolution of the FBI.
Thank you to the author, PENGUIN GROUP Dutton, and NetGalley for the Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Thank you to the author, PENGUIN GROUP Dutton, and NetGalley for the Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
January 26, 2025
It was an interesting telling of the 1930s FBI and the men who actually did all the work (not J Edgar Hoover). Followed all the major criminals of the time so the book seemed slightly long and repetitive at times since many stories were very similar but a decent true crime book and it was great to hear some untold stories of the true heroes.
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