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Unnatural Causes
With Photos! From the dark and bloody ground of Kentucky, to the peaceful Amish communities of Pennsylvania, to the cities and towns crisscrossing Ohio, murder and mayhem has been a part of it all. Within the pages of this latest volume in Notorious USA’s New York Times bestselling series you’ll discover how the unsuspecting succumbed to the evil that caught them by surprise, and what the authorities had to do to stop the madness. Cases Kentucky Sarah Hansen - A cheerleader and all-around good kid, she met a nightmarish death. Sarah Teague – A young woman is abducted from a beach and is never seen again. Margaret Seitz – A mother of five, she killed two of them and then herself. Dr. John Strange - A newlywed disposes of his bride but doesn’t know what to do with her head. James Sefchick and Danny Tetrick were drive-in killers, and no ticket-taker was safe. Jessica Thornsberry – Only 12, she went to her friend’s house for a sleepover and wound up dead. Pennsylvania Alec Kreider – He had a hunger for murder and started with his best friend’s family. Charles Carl Roberts – loving husband, father, and killer of young Amish girls. Gary Heidnik – A collector of women, and it was death to those who complained. George Sodini – He never found the love of a woman, so he made women a target for murder. Ohio Anthony and Nathaniel Cook - A murdering duo, they terrorized Toledo for years. Death of an Amish Wife - What happened to Ida Stutzman? Donald Harvey – An ordinary looking man, he earned the Angel of Death. Della Sutorius – She loved the book, The Bad Seed, and guided her life accordingly.
267 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 28, 2014
338 people are currently reading
454 people want to read
About the author
Gregg Olsen
114 books7,215 followersThroughout his career, Gregg Olsen has demonstrated an ability to create a detailed narrative that offers readers fascinating insights into the lives of people caught in extraordinary circumstances.
A #1 New York Times bestselling author, Olsen has written ten nonfiction books, ten novels, and contributed a short story to a collection edited by Lee Child.
The award-winning author has been a guest on dozens of national and local television shows, including educational programs for the History Channel, Learning Channel, and Discovery Channel. He has also appeared on Good Morning America, The Early Show, The Today Show, FOX News; CNN, Anderson Cooper 360, MSNBC, Entertainment Tonight, CBS 48 Hours, Oxygen’s Snapped, Court TV’s Crier Live, Inside Edition, Extra, Access Hollywood, and A&E’s Biography.
In addition to television and radio appearances, the award-winning author has been featured in Redbook, USA Today, People, Salon magazine, Seattle Times, Los Angeles Times and the New York Post.
The Deep Dark was named Idaho Book of the Year by the ILA and Starvation Heights was honored by Washington’s Secretary of State for the book’s contribution to Washington state history and culture.
Olsen, a Seattle native, lives in Olalla, Washington with his wife and Suri (a mini dachshund so spoiled she wears a sweater).
A #1 New York Times bestselling author, Olsen has written ten nonfiction books, ten novels, and contributed a short story to a collection edited by Lee Child.
The award-winning author has been a guest on dozens of national and local television shows, including educational programs for the History Channel, Learning Channel, and Discovery Channel. He has also appeared on Good Morning America, The Early Show, The Today Show, FOX News; CNN, Anderson Cooper 360, MSNBC, Entertainment Tonight, CBS 48 Hours, Oxygen’s Snapped, Court TV’s Crier Live, Inside Edition, Extra, Access Hollywood, and A&E’s Biography.
In addition to television and radio appearances, the award-winning author has been featured in Redbook, USA Today, People, Salon magazine, Seattle Times, Los Angeles Times and the New York Post.
The Deep Dark was named Idaho Book of the Year by the ILA and Starvation Heights was honored by Washington’s Secretary of State for the book’s contribution to Washington state history and culture.
Olsen, a Seattle native, lives in Olalla, Washington with his wife and Suri (a mini dachshund so spoiled she wears a sweater).
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
December 22, 2021
Cases from Ohio, Kentucky, and Pennsylvania. Several you know and some you don't. Ranging from serial killers, angels of death, Amish killers, etc. they are sure to shock you. Cold-hearted killers that will have you locking your doors and windows.
April 23, 2016
Let me preface this review by saying I am a huge fan of true crime compilations. Not in a creepy way (I think) but as a snapshot into human nature; just like reading about great scientists and humanitarians true crime gives us a glimpse into another facet of humanity.
That's where I really feel this book is lacking. Each case starts with a lyrical look at either the criminal, victims or witnesses but then sufferers an abrupt change in style going from grandiose description to short summations of the aftermath.
Now both styles have a place. Ann Rule is particularly good at the in depth lyrical style but she carries it through the whole case, looking into investigation, motive, etc. Likewise short factual summations have there place but the mix of the two in this book really frustrated me. The beginning made me feel emotionally invested but the rapid wind up was deeply unsatisfying.
That's where I really feel this book is lacking. Each case starts with a lyrical look at either the criminal, victims or witnesses but then sufferers an abrupt change in style going from grandiose description to short summations of the aftermath.
Now both styles have a place. Ann Rule is particularly good at the in depth lyrical style but she carries it through the whole case, looking into investigation, motive, etc. Likewise short factual summations have there place but the mix of the two in this book really frustrated me. The beginning made me feel emotionally invested but the rapid wind up was deeply unsatisfying.
May 22, 2017
This is a set of smaller books that are from the Notorious USA series. There are several stories included such as Donald Harvey (serial killer) , Sarah Hansen murder, Heather Teague disappearance. etc. There are quite a few more as well. It is well written and well researched. I found it to be interesting, and included stories I was not aware of, which made it even better for me! I really liked this book, as I like anthologies a lot. The stories are short and sweet, without the extra fluff. I do recommend this book!
May 19, 2016
Three short true crime books in one, featuring cases from Kentucky, Pennsylvania, and Ohio. Some are fairly obscure, but many have been given book-length treatment elsewhere, including: Dante Sutorius in DELLA'S WEB by Aphrodite Jones, Alec Krieder in A NEED TO KILL by Michael Cuneo, Gary Heidnik in CELLAR OF HORROR by Ken Englade, and Eli Stutzman in Gregg Olsen's own ABANDONED PRAYERS.
I enjoyed reading the book, despite the fact that it often has a thrown-together quality to it--with awkward sentence construction and plenty of errors. For example, the Dustin Hoffman film STRAW DOGS is described as 'Al Pacino's latest flick.' Not a life-threatening mistake, but an illustration included in the book (!) clearly identifies it as a Hoffman vehicle.
I enjoyed reading the book, despite the fact that it often has a thrown-together quality to it--with awkward sentence construction and plenty of errors. For example, the Dustin Hoffman film STRAW DOGS is described as 'Al Pacino's latest flick.' Not a life-threatening mistake, but an illustration included in the book (!) clearly identifies it as a Hoffman vehicle.
June 13, 2016
Fascinating True Crime Cases
I'm rating Unnatural Causes 4 stars because I found this book to be well written and well researched. I enjoy reading true crime books and was not familiar with any cases in this book which made reading it all the more interesting. I would recommend this book to those interested in true crime or non fiction.
I'm rating Unnatural Causes 4 stars because I found this book to be well written and well researched. I enjoy reading true crime books and was not familiar with any cases in this book which made reading it all the more interesting. I would recommend this book to those interested in true crime or non fiction.
April 9, 2016
I am thoroughly enjoying the Notorious USA series and this one is one of the better ones.
April 7, 2016
So-so
Sickening, evil, diabolical, demonic and depressing! On the other hand these stories are factual and well done. Sickening as to the light sentences given to these animals.
Sickening, evil, diabolical, demonic and depressing! On the other hand these stories are factual and well done. Sickening as to the light sentences given to these animals.
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April 2, 2025Book Review: Unnatural Causes by Gregg Olsen and Kevin M. Sullivan
Overview
Unnatural Causes is a compelling true crime series authored by Gregg Olsen and Kevin M. Sullivan that delves into the chilling realities of murder, investigation, and the intricate details behind some of the most notorious cases. This gripping collection not only dissects specific crimes but also examines the societal and psychological implications of these events, offering readers an in-depth understanding of the darker facets of human behavior.
Content and Structure
The series is structured as a comprehensive exploration of various unsolved or infamous murder cases, meticulously researched and narrated in a captivating style. Each installment combines factual recounting with engaging storytelling, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the narrative while being informed about the investigative processes involved. Olsen and Sullivan’s approach blends meticulous detail with a flair for suspense, making the books both informative and thrilling.
Themes
Justice and Injustice: A recurring theme throughout the series is the struggle for justice in the face of systemic failures, highlighting the challenges that law enforcement faces and the impact of societal perceptions on criminal cases.
Psychological Exploration of Criminal Minds: The authors delve into the psyche of offenders, exploring the motivations and backgrounds that lead to heinous acts, thereby offering a deeper understanding of the human condition.
Impact of Crime on Communities: Each case is presented not just as an isolated incident but as an event that reverberates through the community, affecting families, friends, and society at large.
Role of Media in Crime: The series also touches on how media portrays crime, influencing public perception and the complexities of high-profile cases.
Writing Style
Olsen and Sullivan’s writing is both accessible and engaging, skillfully balancing detailed research with vivid storytelling. Their ability to draw readers into the narrative while maintaining factual accuracy makes Unnatural Causes a standout in the true crime genre. The pacing is adeptly managed, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as they progress through each chilling account.
Conclusion
Unnatural Causes is a must-read for true crime enthusiasts and those intrigued by the complexities of criminal investigations. Gregg Olsen and Kevin M. Sullivan have crafted a series that not only recounts horrific events but also encourages readers to reflect on broader themes of justice, morality, and the human psyche. This collection is both enlightening and engrossing, leaving a lasting impression on anyone who dares to explore the dark corners of human nature. Whether you are a seasoned true crime reader or new to the genre, this series promises to be a gripping journey into the heart of darkness.
Overview
Unnatural Causes is a compelling true crime series authored by Gregg Olsen and Kevin M. Sullivan that delves into the chilling realities of murder, investigation, and the intricate details behind some of the most notorious cases. This gripping collection not only dissects specific crimes but also examines the societal and psychological implications of these events, offering readers an in-depth understanding of the darker facets of human behavior.
Content and Structure
The series is structured as a comprehensive exploration of various unsolved or infamous murder cases, meticulously researched and narrated in a captivating style. Each installment combines factual recounting with engaging storytelling, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the narrative while being informed about the investigative processes involved. Olsen and Sullivan’s approach blends meticulous detail with a flair for suspense, making the books both informative and thrilling.
Themes
Justice and Injustice: A recurring theme throughout the series is the struggle for justice in the face of systemic failures, highlighting the challenges that law enforcement faces and the impact of societal perceptions on criminal cases.
Psychological Exploration of Criminal Minds: The authors delve into the psyche of offenders, exploring the motivations and backgrounds that lead to heinous acts, thereby offering a deeper understanding of the human condition.
Impact of Crime on Communities: Each case is presented not just as an isolated incident but as an event that reverberates through the community, affecting families, friends, and society at large.
Role of Media in Crime: The series also touches on how media portrays crime, influencing public perception and the complexities of high-profile cases.
Writing Style
Olsen and Sullivan’s writing is both accessible and engaging, skillfully balancing detailed research with vivid storytelling. Their ability to draw readers into the narrative while maintaining factual accuracy makes Unnatural Causes a standout in the true crime genre. The pacing is adeptly managed, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as they progress through each chilling account.
Conclusion
Unnatural Causes is a must-read for true crime enthusiasts and those intrigued by the complexities of criminal investigations. Gregg Olsen and Kevin M. Sullivan have crafted a series that not only recounts horrific events but also encourages readers to reflect on broader themes of justice, morality, and the human psyche. This collection is both enlightening and engrossing, leaving a lasting impression on anyone who dares to explore the dark corners of human nature. Whether you are a seasoned true crime reader or new to the genre, this series promises to be a gripping journey into the heart of darkness.
February 22, 2024
This anthology begins with the abduction of a cheerleader named Heather Teague. A man observing nature through a telescope saw the young woman abducted and notified the police. A local nutcase offed himself a short time later and Heather's body has never been found.
Rita Robbins and Ronald Shumaker are the next unfortunate victims to a pair of losers who robbed and killed them for a little more than one hundred dollars taken from a drive-in theater in Kentucky. Both of the killers received life sentences.
The third story is the worst as Margaret Seitz is given a short chapter. The unbalanced lady hacked up her young son and daughter, but at least she saved the taxpayers the expense of a trial by proceeding to slice her wrists in a bathtub.
John Strange was a Baptist minister who was also a teacher at a Christian school, as was his wife Kathleen. The rocky marriage was headed for a divorce when Mr. Strange shot his beloved in the head. She would not fit into a barrel and so he removed her head. A confession placed him in prison where he awaits parole.
In The Amish Schoolhouse Murders chapter, Charles Carl Roberts decided to kill a few Amish kids for no apparent reason. The murdered children's families visited the killer's wife and prayed for his soul.
Alec Krieder walked into his best friend's house and killed him and his mother and father. No reason was given by the high school boy and he will spend the remainder of his life in a Pennsylvania prison.
Gary Heidnik is the most famous of this gallery of rogues and his story has been told many times. He held several women captive and even cooked the head of one of his prey in a pot. Gary was put to sleep like a dog.
George Sodini was, by all outward appearances, a successful man. He owned a nice home and had a good job. At forty-eight, he entered a gym and opened fire, killing three women. He then put a bullet through his brain. A suicide note blamed all of the selfish ladies who refused to date him.
Dr. Darryl Sutorius was a cardiac surgeon who made a bad choice in picking his second wife after a bitter divorce. Della was married four times and the good doctor would be number five. Financial battles resulted in his abrupt death by gunshot.
Donald Harvey was the "Angel of Death" years before Charles Cullen. A diary kept by the madman disclosed more than eighty supposed mercy killings.
The book ends with two brothers, Anthony and Nathaniel Cook, a pair of serial killers who were captured after a rape and murder spree. DNA sent the siblings to prison.
Rita Robbins and Ronald Shumaker are the next unfortunate victims to a pair of losers who robbed and killed them for a little more than one hundred dollars taken from a drive-in theater in Kentucky. Both of the killers received life sentences.
The third story is the worst as Margaret Seitz is given a short chapter. The unbalanced lady hacked up her young son and daughter, but at least she saved the taxpayers the expense of a trial by proceeding to slice her wrists in a bathtub.
John Strange was a Baptist minister who was also a teacher at a Christian school, as was his wife Kathleen. The rocky marriage was headed for a divorce when Mr. Strange shot his beloved in the head. She would not fit into a barrel and so he removed her head. A confession placed him in prison where he awaits parole.
In The Amish Schoolhouse Murders chapter, Charles Carl Roberts decided to kill a few Amish kids for no apparent reason. The murdered children's families visited the killer's wife and prayed for his soul.
Alec Krieder walked into his best friend's house and killed him and his mother and father. No reason was given by the high school boy and he will spend the remainder of his life in a Pennsylvania prison.
Gary Heidnik is the most famous of this gallery of rogues and his story has been told many times. He held several women captive and even cooked the head of one of his prey in a pot. Gary was put to sleep like a dog.
George Sodini was, by all outward appearances, a successful man. He owned a nice home and had a good job. At forty-eight, he entered a gym and opened fire, killing three women. He then put a bullet through his brain. A suicide note blamed all of the selfish ladies who refused to date him.
Dr. Darryl Sutorius was a cardiac surgeon who made a bad choice in picking his second wife after a bitter divorce. Della was married four times and the good doctor would be number five. Financial battles resulted in his abrupt death by gunshot.
Donald Harvey was the "Angel of Death" years before Charles Cullen. A diary kept by the madman disclosed more than eighty supposed mercy killings.
The book ends with two brothers, Anthony and Nathaniel Cook, a pair of serial killers who were captured after a rape and murder spree. DNA sent the siblings to prison.
January 8, 2024
Notorious USA including Pennsylvania…
A joint authorship brings us multiple crimes within two or three states. There are a very few that are already familiar to me, with the remaining cases being new, at least to me. I do usually attempt to get updates on the victims and perpetrators so there are several that could be updated with their current status. Several have unalived themselves.
This one includes the story of Ida Sturtzman, the Amish wife killed by her husband. Gregg Olsen has a newer book out expanding this into a more comprehensive story.
KU read.
A joint authorship brings us multiple crimes within two or three states. There are a very few that are already familiar to me, with the remaining cases being new, at least to me. I do usually attempt to get updates on the victims and perpetrators so there are several that could be updated with their current status. Several have unalived themselves.
This one includes the story of Ida Sturtzman, the Amish wife killed by her husband. Gregg Olsen has a newer book out expanding this into a more comprehensive story.
KU read.
September 17, 2020
I am a big fan of Gregg Olsen, but I have never read an anthology of his work. This book contained material from three of my favorite authors and it was such an easy read. The stories were short and to the point. Almost like you were reading a daily newspaper of crime and murder. I read this book on my Kindle and I was on the last page before I even knew I was at the end of the book. That is how good it was.
October 17, 2022
I enjoyed reading about these true crime cases in the Tri-state area( I'm from Pa.). Some of the stories were more detailed than others. The series of stories read quickly. If you like true crime novels, these are worth picking up.
January 5, 2017
A Great Read
Multiple cases that kept me on the edge of my seat and yearning for more. Highly recommend for any true crime enthusiasts.
Multiple cases that kept me on the edge of my seat and yearning for more. Highly recommend for any true crime enthusiasts.
March 1, 2017
Good read
Good story lines and the bad people lose and paid ed for their crimes. My they all burn in hell
Good story lines and the bad people lose and paid ed for their crimes. My they all burn in hell
May 21, 2017
Very informative
Living in Cincinnati I have heard about some of the murders. It was a very interesting book. I will be reading more of his work
Living in Cincinnati I have heard about some of the murders. It was a very interesting book. I will be reading more of his work
July 7, 2017
Interesting cases
This is a collection of murders that occurred and were solved by law enforcement.. I found it to be very interesting.
This is a collection of murders that occurred and were solved by law enforcement.. I found it to be very interesting.
July 24, 2017
Great accounts of true crime and how the killers were caught. Gregg Olsen details the crimes in ways that the victims are not accused of anything but being at the wrong place at the wrong time.
January 6, 2018
Cruel and awful crimes
This was a very interesting collection of stories about some terrible people doing unspeakable crimes. These stories are well documented and written.
This was a very interesting collection of stories about some terrible people doing unspeakable crimes. These stories are well documented and written.
June 12, 2020
Couldn’t even finish it. Awful.
November 16, 2020
Terrible editing, misspellings, bad grammar, very distracting.
February 28, 2021
Pretty good
Pretty good. Some of the Stories I hadn’t heard. There are Some issues with editing and at times the writing is a bit amateurish Overall interesting read.
Pretty good. Some of the Stories I hadn’t heard. There are Some issues with editing and at times the writing is a bit amateurish Overall interesting read.
May 18, 2021
Unnerving.
With a creep factor of 50 on a scale of 1 to 10, this book makes sleep difficult.
Highly recommend!
With a creep factor of 50 on a scale of 1 to 10, this book makes sleep difficult.
Highly recommend!
July 8, 2021
Recommended
read. Short versions of longer stories about true crimes. If you love true crime but don't have time for full length books, this collection is for you.
read. Short versions of longer stories about true crimes. If you love true crime but don't have time for full length books, this collection is for you.
February 28, 2022
Wow!! Amazing detail in his writing.
December 26, 2022
Not Olsens best
Not really enough details. Okay for a quick read. I like his full length books much better. Will keep reading other books by him.
Not really enough details. Okay for a quick read. I like his full length books much better. Will keep reading other books by him.
December 6, 2023
Hard time putting the book down!
I really enjoyed the short stories. Kept my attention the whole time. Highly recommend this book. Look forward to more of &Greg Olsen boks
I really enjoyed the short stories. Kept my attention the whole time. Highly recommend this book. Look forward to more of &Greg Olsen boks
April 25, 2024
Meh. Writing not great. This was just a retelling of news reports of some horrible murders.
February 27, 2017
True crime in Kentucky, Ohio, Pennsylvania
The three books in this volume cover true crime cases in Kentucky, Ohio and Pennsylvania. Every story is interesting and informative.
The stories provide more information and details than news reports, and most include photos. These harrowing tales of monsters among us are too frightening to have a place in reality, but this is not the imagination of a writer of fiction at work. Behind the facade of a normal person resides a grotesque demon who solves problems with a deadly weapon.
If I had proofread this book, I would have corrected 40 errors in addition to some incorrect punctuation.
The three books in this volume cover true crime cases in Kentucky, Ohio and Pennsylvania. Every story is interesting and informative.
The stories provide more information and details than news reports, and most include photos. These harrowing tales of monsters among us are too frightening to have a place in reality, but this is not the imagination of a writer of fiction at work. Behind the facade of a normal person resides a grotesque demon who solves problems with a deadly weapon.
If I had proofread this book, I would have corrected 40 errors in addition to some incorrect punctuation.
January 25, 2017
I had to get through some editorial errors to truly enjoy this book. The title made me expect something completely different, such as cases with a paranormal twist. Despite my disappointment in the misleading title, I did end up liking the book. The cases were written in a way that was fun to read and many I hadn't even heard of before this book. Even though the accounts were short I still feel like I got all of the information I needed.
January 11, 2017
I like true crime books, though most of them drag on forever without getting to the point until the end.
This series of books were not like that. Each story was only about what happened and didn't have any fluff to it. They were exciting to read and most of them I hadn't heard of before.
If you like true crime stories, I would recommend this series over others.
This series of books were not like that. Each story was only about what happened and didn't have any fluff to it. They were exciting to read and most of them I hadn't heard of before.
If you like true crime stories, I would recommend this series over others.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews