The Wicked Among Us: Murder, Blackmail, and Book Collecting in the Ozarks

by James Owen

Atop the Ozark Mountains and in the buckle of the Bible Belt, the murder of an eccentric lawyer reveals a tragic family drama and an examination of a community that would rather see some crimes left unsolved.

Rolland Comstock lived in what was described as “a Grimm Fairy tale.” With his pet wolves roving the estate and a world-famous book collection to obsess over, Rolland was no ordinary country lawyer. When he was murdered, Rolland’s story turned into a tragic mystery—a mystery some in the community did not want to see solved.

This intimate true crime tale not only seeks to resolve the question of who killed this man but also to examine his life as well. Beneath his quirky personality, there were secrets and turmoil at odds with the ultra-conservative community Rolland called home. Some were wicked enough to say Rolland got what he deserved. The Wicked Among Us is a legal thriller from the perspective of a tragic victim who can no longer tell the story himself.

Genres: Nonfiction, True Crime, Crime

256 pages, Paperback

Published January 20, 2026

Reviews

[♥Milica♥ · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you love victim-focused true crime books, then you gotta pick up The Wicked Among Us. And if you love nonfiction that reads like fiction...you already know what you have to do.

Even though I'm from the other side of the globe, I had no problem keeping everything straight, but I'm sure it hits so much harder when you're from the area, and know the people involved.

Roland was such an interesting person, it's tragic what happened to him (and how it ended). I still have some unanswered questions, but I'm very impressed by James Owen's presentation, and will be on the lookout for more of his books.

P. S. If you're planning on giving this a read, the audiobook is the way to go, the narration is excellent.

[Daphne Mann · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was an incredible testimony to Rolland that is heightened by the storytelling. It highlights Rolland as a well-meaning but utterly human main character who has struggles as every point in his life and career. This being nonfiction absolutely baffles me, and I am so jealous of the authors personal relationship with Rolland. I am so appreciative of the way this book is written and provides Rolland with honor and dignity that was not provided to him during his last years. Additionally, being from the area this is written and having several personal ties to areas mentioned within the book just add a layer of reality and bewilderment to an already wild story. What a work of art!

[Amanda Powell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a great little true crime story! If you’re familiar with Springfield or the Ozarks generally, the sense of place alone in this book will charm you. Owen manages to make each character in the story compelling, frustrating, and most of all - deeply human. Blame is never squarely laid at the feet of any one party and its ultimately up to the reader to determine if justice was ever served. This was a quick, enjoyable read to start my year!

[Jessica Caldera · Rating 5 out of 5]

A well-written story about a crazy set of circumstances and messy legal situation. Told through the accessible lens of the people involved. It was engaging throughout and unlike any murder mystery I've ever read before!

[Stephanie Stenger · Rating 5 out of 5]

As an attorney in Springfield and someone who took a two day book collecting class from Rolland in his library, I was on the edge of my seat the entire book. It is tragic that there was no justice for Rolland.

[Diane Carter · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am so disturbed that this is a true account of what happened to Rolland. I never knew him, but wish I had.

[Lori Murawski · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a longtime Springfieldian, and fellow Drury University alumni who volunteered with the author on the Alumni Council, I was really excited to learn he wrote this book. This crime was a mystery from the day it occurred and is one of those "I wonder what really happened" topics of conversation among those of us who have lived here for years. James did a thorough job describing all the key players in the event and I thought he gave a fair accounting of their dispositions. I really enjoyed learning more about the details of the incident and following investigations.

Well done, James, and I look forward to your future books!

[Charla Harbour · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars.

This was an interesting read. A little slow in places where the information repeated itself while explaining the trial process, but the author did a good job of laying out how the legal system works, as well as how it often doesn't work.

I was fascinated and appalled at how badly a murder investigation can be botched and no one has to answer for that. What a shame. I hope Mr. Comstock's family found peace.

[Crista · Rating 5 out of 5]

When nonfiction is stranger than fiction! I live in the city/ county where this case took place so I know how the story ends but the author had me unable to put this one down. Owens mentions dozens of lawyers and judges and I knew/ know every single one of them - he does a great job of capturing their personalities and practices. Rolland's life and death was amazing, alarming and pretty darned sad and Owen's is masterful in conveying his story.

[Leena · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a fantastic read, especially if you’re from or familiar with southwest Missouri and the landscape of practicing law in the state. As a lawyer, I appreciated the level of detail and explanation, but it was all presented very artfully within a well crafted story that effortlessly guides readers between Rolland Comstock’s history and the present-day legal battles surrounding his life and death. Highly recommend!

[Anne Brown · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm a big true crime junkie and also lived in Springfield, MO from 1963-2023 so I remember this case well. I thought the writing was "just okay" and at times it was hard to follow exactly what was happening with the cast of characters. I really wanted to like this book more than I did. Would love to know what happened to Rolland's house and also his rare book collection.

[Charity Hindman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book blends drama, suspense, and a little dark humor into one compelling true story. An eccentric, somewhat shady attorney anchors a cast that includes a vindictive ex-wife and deeply troubled children. With unexpected elements like wolves, a bulldog, and of course murder, the story keeps you engaged until the end.