What do you think?
Rate this book
Win a free kindle copy of this book!
0 days and 04:42:50
100 copies available
U.S. only
By the River's Edge: A True Story of Identity and Serial Murder
Win a free kindle copy of this book!
0 days and 04:42:50
100 copies available
U.S. only
The decades-long manhunt for a serial killer takes a stunning turn in a haunting and harrowing true crime shocker by Gregg Olsen, the #1 New York Times bestselling author of If You Tell.
In 1990 in Washington state, the bodies of Yolanda Sapp, Nickie Lowe, and Kathy Brisbois were found on the banks of the Spokane River. They were part of a close-knit alliance of sex workers whose oath to protect each other was, in the end, hopeless. For twenty-two years their brutal murders went unsolved.
In 2012, a DNA cold hit pointed to Douglas Perry. A repeat assault offender, Douglas was currently incarcerated in Carswell, Texas. But there was a twist: The facility was for female prisoners. The man authorities hunted for decades was now Donna Perry. Her gender reassignment not only helped to mask the evil deeds of the past, it ended a life of childhood traumas and a pent-up rage unleashed on nearly thirty victims, according to Donna herself. Through total reinvention, she believed she’d finally slayed the monster within.
By the River’s Edge is the astonishing true story of an elusive serial killer, an escape plan like no other, and the women who lived and died on the fringes of the Lilac City for whom justice was at long last served.
In 1990 in Washington state, the bodies of Yolanda Sapp, Nickie Lowe, and Kathy Brisbois were found on the banks of the Spokane River. They were part of a close-knit alliance of sex workers whose oath to protect each other was, in the end, hopeless. For twenty-two years their brutal murders went unsolved.
In 2012, a DNA cold hit pointed to Douglas Perry. A repeat assault offender, Douglas was currently incarcerated in Carswell, Texas. But there was a twist: The facility was for female prisoners. The man authorities hunted for decades was now Donna Perry. Her gender reassignment not only helped to mask the evil deeds of the past, it ended a life of childhood traumas and a pent-up rage unleashed on nearly thirty victims, according to Donna herself. Through total reinvention, she believed she’d finally slayed the monster within.
By the River’s Edge is the astonishing true story of an elusive serial killer, an escape plan like no other, and the women who lived and died on the fringes of the Lilac City for whom justice was at long last served.
322 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication June 23, 2026
About the author
Gregg Olsen
118 books7,407 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
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I didn’t know much about this case before reading this book. I’m not from the U.S., and surprisingly, there isn’t a huge amount of easily accessible information about it online beyond a few articles and crime show mentions. So going in, I was learning a lot of details for the first time.
First of all, it’s clear that the author put serious effort into researching this case. The level of detail and care in presenting the timeline, the investigation and the people involved really stood out.
True crime is always difficult to "rate" in the same way as fiction. It’s not about twists or character arcs, it’s about facts, real victims and real consequences. In that sense, I think the book did what it set out to do. The pacing was mostly steady (I did felt sometimes was a bit slower, but it didn't bother me too much) and kept me engaged throughout, even though the subject matter is undeniably heavy.
There were moments where the narrative felt slightly repetitive and a few times I almost forgot I was reading nonfiction because it unfolded with the intensity of a thriller. But overall, it was informative, disturbing and thoughtfully told.
A solid 4★ for me.
Thank you NetGalley & Thomas & Mercer for the ARC.
First of all, it’s clear that the author put serious effort into researching this case. The level of detail and care in presenting the timeline, the investigation and the people involved really stood out.
True crime is always difficult to "rate" in the same way as fiction. It’s not about twists or character arcs, it’s about facts, real victims and real consequences. In that sense, I think the book did what it set out to do. The pacing was mostly steady (I did felt sometimes was a bit slower, but it didn't bother me too much) and kept me engaged throughout, even though the subject matter is undeniably heavy.
There were moments where the narrative felt slightly repetitive and a few times I almost forgot I was reading nonfiction because it unfolded with the intensity of a thriller. But overall, it was informative, disturbing and thoughtfully told.
A solid 4★ for me.
Thank you NetGalley & Thomas & Mercer for the ARC.
January 17, 2026
A true-crime story with a fascinating real case and solid research. While the subject matter is compelling, the pacing can feel slow and repetitive at times. A decent read for true-crime fans, but not my favorite by Gregg Olsen.
May 14, 2026
By the River’s Edge is the second true crime book I’ve read from Gregg Olsen, and this was a doozy of a case. I had heard of the story before, but never in so much detail. A large portion of the book is taken directly from police interrogations and court testimony, which made everything feel deeply immersive and harrowing. This was such a unique and unprecedented case, but as always with true crime, it was also tragic and heartbreaking for the victims and families involved in these senseless crimes.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This being a true story is just crazy. I've never heard of a situation like in this book and I follow true crime a lot
. It was one crazy eye opening unbelievable book.
If you love true crime you must read this.
And if course the author is brilliant.
My heart goes out to the families
Thanks to the author the publisher and Netgalley for a early release of this book.
. It was one crazy eye opening unbelievable book.
If you love true crime you must read this.
And if course the author is brilliant.
My heart goes out to the families
Thanks to the author the publisher and Netgalley for a early release of this book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thanks to Netgally and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
This was a very interesting true crime story about serial killer from Spokane in the 1990s. I went into this book expecting it to be written in a similar way to If You Tell (same author), but this novel is more like just reading a case file. Lots of facts, lots of regurgitated conversations, and lots of repetitiveness. The story itself is heartbreaking aa far as the victims and their families are concerned, and infuriating where Donna is concerned, but with all the details and conversations being repeated throughout the book, it was a little boring at times. If you like a true crime book that focuses on the facts instead of being told in a way that makes you forget you're not just reading another psychologica lthriller,, this book is for you. Like I said, the story is interesting for sure, I just do not care for this type of format in true crime.
This was a very interesting true crime story about serial killer from Spokane in the 1990s. I went into this book expecting it to be written in a similar way to If You Tell (same author), but this novel is more like just reading a case file. Lots of facts, lots of regurgitated conversations, and lots of repetitiveness. The story itself is heartbreaking aa far as the victims and their families are concerned, and infuriating where Donna is concerned, but with all the details and conversations being repeated throughout the book, it was a little boring at times. If you like a true crime book that focuses on the facts instead of being told in a way that makes you forget you're not just reading another psychologica lthriller,, this book is for you. Like I said, the story is interesting for sure, I just do not care for this type of format in true crime.
May 31, 2026
This true crime book covers the case of the first transgender serial killer in the USA. In 1990 in Spokane, Washington, the bodies of three sex workers were found by the river. Their murders went unsolved for more than two decades until DNA analysis led investigators to Douglas Perry, who they were surprised to learn was now Donna Perry.
I was a little worried how the topic of gender confirmation surgery would be handled, and was glad to see it discussed neutrally. In fact, the only complication regarding gender was a legal one: were Douglas and Donna considered to be the same person for the purpose of prosecuting these crimes? Overall, I found this book to be well researched but more reportorial than I prefer. Why did Douglas commit these crimes? How did his troubled upbringing and gender dysphoria contribute to his violence, if at all? I finished this book feeling as if the portrait of Douglas and Donna was incomplete.
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for allowing me to read an ARC of this title.
I was a little worried how the topic of gender confirmation surgery would be handled, and was glad to see it discussed neutrally. In fact, the only complication regarding gender was a legal one: were Douglas and Donna considered to be the same person for the purpose of prosecuting these crimes? Overall, I found this book to be well researched but more reportorial than I prefer. Why did Douglas commit these crimes? How did his troubled upbringing and gender dysphoria contribute to his violence, if at all? I finished this book feeling as if the portrait of Douglas and Donna was incomplete.
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for allowing me to read an ARC of this title.
May 8, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for the digital ARC of this work in exchange for an honest review.
What a hammer blow of a book! This is a true gem of a true crime book. We are taken on a dark trip to the State of Washington where we meet Douglass Perry... Or should I say Donna Perry, a truly loathsome individual who took 3 lives and was able to evade capture by claiming gender dysphoria.
The true stars of this story are the victims, who are portrayed with reality and dignity. The writing is paced perfectly. 4 very enthusiastic stars!!!
What a hammer blow of a book! This is a true gem of a true crime book. We are taken on a dark trip to the State of Washington where we meet Douglass Perry... Or should I say Donna Perry, a truly loathsome individual who took 3 lives and was able to evade capture by claiming gender dysphoria.
The true stars of this story are the victims, who are portrayed with reality and dignity. The writing is paced perfectly. 4 very enthusiastic stars!!!
June 14, 2026
Olsen is so good at making nonfiction, true crime so easy to read.
ARC review pending.
ARC review pending.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley and Brilliance Audio for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I’ve read a few other books written by Olsen, and this one sounded too intriguing and convoluted to pass. Olsen has a wonderful way of turning victims into people, and I was curious how this story would unfold, featuring three murdered sex workers and a transgender suspect. In this case, truth really does seem to be stranger than fiction.
Ever since reading The Five by Hallie Rubenhold, I have been so much more aware of the different ways that both killers and their victims have their stories told, and struggle a lot with stories that (for lack of a better word) seem to focus more on the killer, often barely even mentioning anything about the people who have been murdered. Think about what you know about Jack the Ripper, then think about his victims. Can you name a single one? Do you know anything about their lives? That’s what Rubenhold’s book was about, and I was thrilled to see Olsen offer the same respect to the women in this book. Despite the fact that they had limited options and turned to sex work, Olsen really dives into who each of these women were outside of their profession. They were wives, mothers, sisters, friends, and most importantly, they were human beings who deserved respect.
Yolanda, Nickie, and Kathy are the focus of the first section of the book. People who live on the fringes of society often have a lot of cards stacked against them, and it is no different for these three women. Climbing out of the hole of addiction and prostitution is a long, hard journey. These three formed a bond and promised to protect each other, unable to know that they would all be killed by the same person in 1990. It was so fascinating to learn about these women and who they actually were. So much of a person’s identity in America has to do with your profession—I noticed this when I became disabled and people asked what I did for work—having no answer prepared left a gap in the conversation, and I can only imagine how much worse the reaction is when you have a profession like sex work.
It isn’t until later parts of the book that we learn more about the suspected killer, Douglas/Donna Perry. After more than 20 years, the updated DNA technology and associated databases available were used on evidence that was part of a cold case. A DNA hit came back, and was linked to the name of a man who had been arrested for assault charges. But when law enforcement officers searched for him, they discovered that he had flown to Thailand and gotten gender reassignment surgery, and he was being held in a women’s federal facility in Texas, living his life as Donna Perry.
While I find myself with significantly less empathy for a person who kills innocent people, it wasn’t easy learning about Douglas’s early years. Born intersex, his parents chose his gender as male to match his external genitalia, and raised him as a son. He faced a lot of trauma, including sexual abuse from both his father and older brother. Even so, it’s clear that none of this makes his murders acceptable or even understandable.
The case got really interesting when Donna’s defense strategy was made clear: she was claiming that the murders had been committed by Douglas, and that becoming Donna basically gave her a clean slate as a completely different person. She made statements about how becoming a woman totally removed any aggression, which was challenged as mistaken since there is no scientific evidence to support this. I was really caught up and wanted to find out if justice was going to be served for these three women, and was glued to the book.
It is narrated by Karen Peakes, and she does a wonderful job with the voices. Different characters had different voices in her narration, and for such a potentially touchy topic, it was handled pretty sensitively for the most part. Sometimes language grows more rapidly than is recognized widely. Douglas was born when the term for his ambiguous genitalia was called hermaphroditism, although this is now viewed as a slur and has been replaced by intersex. Perry’s identity as both an intersex individual and a transgender woman was handled sensitively and her preferred pronouns were always used. If she was misgendered in the story, Peakes makes it clear that it was one of the characters using the terminology. However, I would have liked to see the words ‘sex worker’ to replace prostitute, but both are used about equally in the book, and referring to these women as hookers or prostitutes is an insult to them, since they’re so much more than sex workers.
What really made a huge impression on me was the huge impact that rippled out from the murder of three sex workers. Even more than 2 decades later, there were people who were around to make impact statements. These women left behind partners, husbands, children, and families, all of who had something taken from them. People are part of an interconnected web, and even targeting sex workers can have major consequences—these women left behind children who never got to know her, in some cases not remembering anything about her, while it was frequently said how much light these women had to offer the world, and losing them impacted their families in such a deep way.
Overall, this was a really interesting case, and honestly did justice to the victims, which is really what I look for in a good true crime book. I would have liked to see less harmful language surrounding the sex workers, rather than referring to them repeatedly throughout the book as prostitutes, which has a negative connotation. But I did like how much more attention was paid to the victims and how the killer’s upbringing and life was discussed but not given a free pass for what he did as Douglas, even if Donna viewed Douglas as a completely different individual than her female identity. I wasn’t aware of this case, but it was inspiring to see that this cold case was never ignored or forgotten about, using updated technology to identify the killer.
Bottom line: An outstanding discussion of the women who were murdered along the Spokane River and the long journey to find justice for them, along with the devoted detectives and family who never gave up on their search for answers.
I’ve read a few other books written by Olsen, and this one sounded too intriguing and convoluted to pass. Olsen has a wonderful way of turning victims into people, and I was curious how this story would unfold, featuring three murdered sex workers and a transgender suspect. In this case, truth really does seem to be stranger than fiction.
Ever since reading The Five by Hallie Rubenhold, I have been so much more aware of the different ways that both killers and their victims have their stories told, and struggle a lot with stories that (for lack of a better word) seem to focus more on the killer, often barely even mentioning anything about the people who have been murdered. Think about what you know about Jack the Ripper, then think about his victims. Can you name a single one? Do you know anything about their lives? That’s what Rubenhold’s book was about, and I was thrilled to see Olsen offer the same respect to the women in this book. Despite the fact that they had limited options and turned to sex work, Olsen really dives into who each of these women were outside of their profession. They were wives, mothers, sisters, friends, and most importantly, they were human beings who deserved respect.
Yolanda, Nickie, and Kathy are the focus of the first section of the book. People who live on the fringes of society often have a lot of cards stacked against them, and it is no different for these three women. Climbing out of the hole of addiction and prostitution is a long, hard journey. These three formed a bond and promised to protect each other, unable to know that they would all be killed by the same person in 1990. It was so fascinating to learn about these women and who they actually were. So much of a person’s identity in America has to do with your profession—I noticed this when I became disabled and people asked what I did for work—having no answer prepared left a gap in the conversation, and I can only imagine how much worse the reaction is when you have a profession like sex work.
It isn’t until later parts of the book that we learn more about the suspected killer, Douglas/Donna Perry. After more than 20 years, the updated DNA technology and associated databases available were used on evidence that was part of a cold case. A DNA hit came back, and was linked to the name of a man who had been arrested for assault charges. But when law enforcement officers searched for him, they discovered that he had flown to Thailand and gotten gender reassignment surgery, and he was being held in a women’s federal facility in Texas, living his life as Donna Perry.
While I find myself with significantly less empathy for a person who kills innocent people, it wasn’t easy learning about Douglas’s early years. Born intersex, his parents chose his gender as male to match his external genitalia, and raised him as a son. He faced a lot of trauma, including sexual abuse from both his father and older brother. Even so, it’s clear that none of this makes his murders acceptable or even understandable.
The case got really interesting when Donna’s defense strategy was made clear: she was claiming that the murders had been committed by Douglas, and that becoming Donna basically gave her a clean slate as a completely different person. She made statements about how becoming a woman totally removed any aggression, which was challenged as mistaken since there is no scientific evidence to support this. I was really caught up and wanted to find out if justice was going to be served for these three women, and was glued to the book.
It is narrated by Karen Peakes, and she does a wonderful job with the voices. Different characters had different voices in her narration, and for such a potentially touchy topic, it was handled pretty sensitively for the most part. Sometimes language grows more rapidly than is recognized widely. Douglas was born when the term for his ambiguous genitalia was called hermaphroditism, although this is now viewed as a slur and has been replaced by intersex. Perry’s identity as both an intersex individual and a transgender woman was handled sensitively and her preferred pronouns were always used. If she was misgendered in the story, Peakes makes it clear that it was one of the characters using the terminology. However, I would have liked to see the words ‘sex worker’ to replace prostitute, but both are used about equally in the book, and referring to these women as hookers or prostitutes is an insult to them, since they’re so much more than sex workers.
What really made a huge impression on me was the huge impact that rippled out from the murder of three sex workers. Even more than 2 decades later, there were people who were around to make impact statements. These women left behind partners, husbands, children, and families, all of who had something taken from them. People are part of an interconnected web, and even targeting sex workers can have major consequences—these women left behind children who never got to know her, in some cases not remembering anything about her, while it was frequently said how much light these women had to offer the world, and losing them impacted their families in such a deep way.
Overall, this was a really interesting case, and honestly did justice to the victims, which is really what I look for in a good true crime book. I would have liked to see less harmful language surrounding the sex workers, rather than referring to them repeatedly throughout the book as prostitutes, which has a negative connotation. But I did like how much more attention was paid to the victims and how the killer’s upbringing and life was discussed but not given a free pass for what he did as Douglas, even if Donna viewed Douglas as a completely different individual than her female identity. I wasn’t aware of this case, but it was inspiring to see that this cold case was never ignored or forgotten about, using updated technology to identify the killer.
Bottom line: An outstanding discussion of the women who were murdered along the Spokane River and the long journey to find justice for them, along with the devoted detectives and family who never gave up on their search for answers.
June 21, 2026
Finished reading: June 21st 2026
*** A copy of this book was kindly provided to me by Netgalley and Brilliance Audio in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! ***
REVIEW
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Having lived in the Seattle area for four years, I was eager to read this book as soon as I found it available for request!
The book is divided into three parts. In the first part, we meet Yolanda, Nickie, and Kathy; the second part focuses on Douglas; and the third part dives into Donna’s story. The horrifying murders began in 1990, but it wasn't until 2012 that DNA evidence finally pointed the police in the right direction—talk about a cold case! The sentence was carried out in 2014, with the trial commencing in 2017. In 2000, Douglas had gender surgery in Bangkok, which allowed him to transition and become Donna. These details form the backbone of the book, but what’s captivating is how we follow each individual's timeline to grasp the full story of what happened, when, and why.
As we delve deeper into Douglas's and then Donna’s lives, we start to notice the presence of mental illness. The 1990s were a different era, and Douglas’s actions likely weren’t fully understood then. He believed that undergoing surgery—or, as the book describes it, ‘gelding’ himself—would help curb his violent tendencies. It’s chilling to think that this individual was on the loose for so long!
The author does a fantastic job of keeping me engaged throughout the narrative, and I won’t lie—I found myself Googling several things along the way! I appreciate books that prompt further research because they often reveal details I wouldn’t have known otherwise. Since I lived near the locations mentioned in the book, it was easy for me to visualize everything in my mind. Honestly, I was completely unaware of this serial killer's story before reading this book. It unfolds like an investigative journey, complete with confessions, interrogations, and trial coverage. A lot is covered, including the fact that some witnesses had passed away, some were ill and couldn’t attend the trial, and others simply didn’t remember due to the passage of time.
Given that this was the first transgender serial killer, the book thoughtfully tackles some sensitive opinions surrounding this topic, addressing mental illness and gender-affirming surgery with care. If you enjoy podcasts, are a fan of true crime, or love stories based on real events, this is definitely a book you shouldn't miss! It was hard to put down, and the time I spent researching online was well worth it! I particularly enjoyed the author's note and afterword, which offer surprising insights from the defense's perspective and Donna Perry's thoughts. I’m now a big fan and can’t wait to explore more of this author’s work!
Thank you, Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley, for the DRC copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The book is divided into three parts. In the first part, we meet Yolanda, Nickie, and Kathy; the second part focuses on Douglas; and the third part dives into Donna’s story. The horrifying murders began in 1990, but it wasn't until 2012 that DNA evidence finally pointed the police in the right direction—talk about a cold case! The sentence was carried out in 2014, with the trial commencing in 2017. In 2000, Douglas had gender surgery in Bangkok, which allowed him to transition and become Donna. These details form the backbone of the book, but what’s captivating is how we follow each individual's timeline to grasp the full story of what happened, when, and why.
As we delve deeper into Douglas's and then Donna’s lives, we start to notice the presence of mental illness. The 1990s were a different era, and Douglas’s actions likely weren’t fully understood then. He believed that undergoing surgery—or, as the book describes it, ‘gelding’ himself—would help curb his violent tendencies. It’s chilling to think that this individual was on the loose for so long!
The author does a fantastic job of keeping me engaged throughout the narrative, and I won’t lie—I found myself Googling several things along the way! I appreciate books that prompt further research because they often reveal details I wouldn’t have known otherwise. Since I lived near the locations mentioned in the book, it was easy for me to visualize everything in my mind. Honestly, I was completely unaware of this serial killer's story before reading this book. It unfolds like an investigative journey, complete with confessions, interrogations, and trial coverage. A lot is covered, including the fact that some witnesses had passed away, some were ill and couldn’t attend the trial, and others simply didn’t remember due to the passage of time.
Given that this was the first transgender serial killer, the book thoughtfully tackles some sensitive opinions surrounding this topic, addressing mental illness and gender-affirming surgery with care. If you enjoy podcasts, are a fan of true crime, or love stories based on real events, this is definitely a book you shouldn't miss! It was hard to put down, and the time I spent researching online was well worth it! I particularly enjoyed the author's note and afterword, which offer surprising insights from the defense's perspective and Donna Perry's thoughts. I’m now a big fan and can’t wait to explore more of this author’s work!
Thank you, Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley, for the DRC copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
We all know that there are acts of evilness in our world. Gregg Olsen writes about it with this true story of a vicious serial killer – one very difficult case to convict. Yet, it’s not just about the life of a man who violently killed prostitutes. This book is also an observation of mental illnesses.
Douglas Perry was a disappointment to his parents and brother. He wasn’t the strong son his father wanted and was beaten brutally. They lived on an apple orchard in a small eastern town of Washington in the 1990s. Perry suffered from trauma and spent time alone in darkness with the love of one thing: guns. And that’s what he used to later murder three prostitutes in Spokane.
He was 48 years old when he had gender-reassignment surgery. That’s when he became Donna hoping that his life would get better. She was able to be free of being arrested for first-degree murders for 23 years. However, she was sent to prison for 18 months when she was pulled over in Oregon with a gun and knife. Donna, while there, made the mistake of confessing what she had done with a prison mate who later took the stand. She revealed to the jury conversations that she loved guns and killing prostitutes became a sport.
This book was like reading a true crime report with all the facts and conversations from everyone involved: Perry, his family, the few people he knew, the prostitutes and detectives. There were notes about the dark paths of helpless victims. Nothing was left out along with the timelines and places he was staying and the prison sentences. Some of the information was repetitive.
It's not an easy book to process. It takes you into a world that is hateful, wicked, sinful, crooked and wrong. Yet, it’s eye-opening with mental illnesses. I remember hearing much about the Green River Serial Killer. Yet, I don’t know how I missed this alarming news report. The author did a great deal of research to give us a full account of this case that took years to solve.
My thanks to Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley for this ARC with an expected release date of June 23, 2026. The thoughts I share are my own.
Douglas Perry was a disappointment to his parents and brother. He wasn’t the strong son his father wanted and was beaten brutally. They lived on an apple orchard in a small eastern town of Washington in the 1990s. Perry suffered from trauma and spent time alone in darkness with the love of one thing: guns. And that’s what he used to later murder three prostitutes in Spokane.
He was 48 years old when he had gender-reassignment surgery. That’s when he became Donna hoping that his life would get better. She was able to be free of being arrested for first-degree murders for 23 years. However, she was sent to prison for 18 months when she was pulled over in Oregon with a gun and knife. Donna, while there, made the mistake of confessing what she had done with a prison mate who later took the stand. She revealed to the jury conversations that she loved guns and killing prostitutes became a sport.
This book was like reading a true crime report with all the facts and conversations from everyone involved: Perry, his family, the few people he knew, the prostitutes and detectives. There were notes about the dark paths of helpless victims. Nothing was left out along with the timelines and places he was staying and the prison sentences. Some of the information was repetitive.
It's not an easy book to process. It takes you into a world that is hateful, wicked, sinful, crooked and wrong. Yet, it’s eye-opening with mental illnesses. I remember hearing much about the Green River Serial Killer. Yet, I don’t know how I missed this alarming news report. The author did a great deal of research to give us a full account of this case that took years to solve.
My thanks to Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley for this ARC with an expected release date of June 23, 2026. The thoughts I share are my own.
June 12, 2026
Yolanda Sapp, Nickie Lowe, and Kathy Brisbois were found murdered near the Spokane River. The three women, all sex workers known as “The Circle,” looked out for one another while surviving life on the streets. Their murders remained unsolved for twenty-two years until DNA evidence collected from the crime scenes was matched to Douglas Perry in 2012. When U.S. Marshals finally made the arrest, however, they found themselves taking a woman into custody. Douglas Perry had undergone gender reassignment surgery in 2000 and was now living as Donna Perry.
According to investigators and prosecutors, becoming Donna Perry helped conceal a violent past marked by childhood trauma and the murders committed decades earlier. The case became notable as one of the first involving a transgender serial killer prosecuted by the FBI, and the evidence ultimately led to Perry’s conviction.
If you pick up this book, be prepared to clear your schedule because it’s incredibly difficult to put down. Gregg Olsen not only explores the murders linked to Donna Perry but also provides insight into the lives of the victims, ensuring they are remembered as more than just names in a case file. He also examines the crimes of the Spokane serial killer, Robert Lee Yates, whose murders overlapped with the investigation, creating additional challenges for law enforcement.
The book dives deep into Perry’s childhood, relationships, criminal history, and the events leading up to the murders, while also detailing the lengthy investigation and trial that culminated in a 2017 conviction. Olsen’s writing is compelling, thoroughly researched, and respectful of the victims whose stories deserved to be told.
I consider myself fairly knowledgeable about well-known serial killer cases, but Donna Perry was completely new to me. That’s one of the things I enjoyed most about this book, it shed light on a case I’d never heard of while delivering a fascinating and unforgettable true-crime story.
According to investigators and prosecutors, becoming Donna Perry helped conceal a violent past marked by childhood trauma and the murders committed decades earlier. The case became notable as one of the first involving a transgender serial killer prosecuted by the FBI, and the evidence ultimately led to Perry’s conviction.
If you pick up this book, be prepared to clear your schedule because it’s incredibly difficult to put down. Gregg Olsen not only explores the murders linked to Donna Perry but also provides insight into the lives of the victims, ensuring they are remembered as more than just names in a case file. He also examines the crimes of the Spokane serial killer, Robert Lee Yates, whose murders overlapped with the investigation, creating additional challenges for law enforcement.
The book dives deep into Perry’s childhood, relationships, criminal history, and the events leading up to the murders, while also detailing the lengthy investigation and trial that culminated in a 2017 conviction. Olsen’s writing is compelling, thoroughly researched, and respectful of the victims whose stories deserved to be told.
I consider myself fairly knowledgeable about well-known serial killer cases, but Donna Perry was completely new to me. That’s one of the things I enjoyed most about this book, it shed light on a case I’d never heard of while delivering a fascinating and unforgettable true-crime story.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Gregg Olsen is one of my favorite true crime authors. I always come away satisfied with the book I read knowing that it's been excellently researched and written. This, his most recent book, is another winner and fits my category judgment.
This book recounts the 1990 murders 0f three sex workers in Spokane, Washington, whose bodies were discovered along the Spokane River. Their murders remained unsolved for twenty-two years until 2012 when a DNA hit identified Douglas Perry, but who was known as Donna Perry. This twist added complexity to a murder investigation as well as highlighting the lengths that someone will go to hide their actions.
The book is nicely paced and is written in such a way that it almost reads like a thriller. I liked the descriptions and characterizations of the victims, Donna/Douglas (the perpetrator) and the detectives. This helped me to connect better to the story and appreciate the human elements of the crimes, especially when Olsen writes about the impact of these crimes to the victims' friends, relatives and the broader community. I also thought Olsen's storytelling helped emphasize the need to give justice to the victims as well as understanding how Donna/Douglas's childhood trauma played into the chilling crimes - never excusing anything though - as well as exploring with sensitivity the perpetrator's identity issue. These make for a thought provoking read.
I read this in one sitting because I was captured from the beginning. This is definitely a book for lovers of true crime, psychological thrillers and good writing.
In follow up to my read, I found that this case was documented in a British show, Inside the Mind of a Serial Killer, Season 2, Episode 5, “Douglas Perry” (2016).
Highly recommend.
I'd like to thank NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for allowing me access to this ARC.
This book recounts the 1990 murders 0f three sex workers in Spokane, Washington, whose bodies were discovered along the Spokane River. Their murders remained unsolved for twenty-two years until 2012 when a DNA hit identified Douglas Perry, but who was known as Donna Perry. This twist added complexity to a murder investigation as well as highlighting the lengths that someone will go to hide their actions.
The book is nicely paced and is written in such a way that it almost reads like a thriller. I liked the descriptions and characterizations of the victims, Donna/Douglas (the perpetrator) and the detectives. This helped me to connect better to the story and appreciate the human elements of the crimes, especially when Olsen writes about the impact of these crimes to the victims' friends, relatives and the broader community. I also thought Olsen's storytelling helped emphasize the need to give justice to the victims as well as understanding how Donna/Douglas's childhood trauma played into the chilling crimes - never excusing anything though - as well as exploring with sensitivity the perpetrator's identity issue. These make for a thought provoking read.
I read this in one sitting because I was captured from the beginning. This is definitely a book for lovers of true crime, psychological thrillers and good writing.
In follow up to my read, I found that this case was documented in a British show, Inside the Mind of a Serial Killer, Season 2, Episode 5, “Douglas Perry” (2016).
Highly recommend.
I'd like to thank NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for allowing me access to this ARC.
June 1, 2026
Gregg Olsen’s new true crime novel examines the murders of three sexworkers killed in Spokane, Washington by a man who later transitioned to a woman. It’s the first transgender serial killer case in the United States.
The story spans 27 years from the first murder to the killer’s conviction. Olsen does an incredible job of humanizing the three women and making it known that regardless of their line of work it is no excuse for them to have been killed. Although, despite the care he placed upon describing the women, I’d have preferred he not consistently refer to them as “street hookers.” It seemed callous and diminishing.
Not until half way through the book does Olsen then focus on the killer. Initially born as a man and having committed the murders as a man, Douglas, transitioned to become Donna. Investigators wondered if Donna could be tried for crimes Douglas committed or would they be seen as separate and distinct people? Olsen details Douglas’ challenging childhood and numerous run ins with ATF agents. Olsen also dives into the reasons why Douglas transitioned and if it was solely to hide from the crimes. The book details how Donna believes changing her gender changes her personhood allowing her to disregard taking any responsibility for the actions of the person she was before. But as a female she showed no remorse for the murders and showed no compassion towards the victims.
By the River’s Edge is well researched but like typical Olsen books it can get slow in the middle. Donna’s jailhouse interview was long, repetitive and drawn out. That chapter could have benefited from further editing. Despite that, the book is compelling and detailed.
Thank you to Thomas & Mercer for this ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The story spans 27 years from the first murder to the killer’s conviction. Olsen does an incredible job of humanizing the three women and making it known that regardless of their line of work it is no excuse for them to have been killed. Although, despite the care he placed upon describing the women, I’d have preferred he not consistently refer to them as “street hookers.” It seemed callous and diminishing.
Not until half way through the book does Olsen then focus on the killer. Initially born as a man and having committed the murders as a man, Douglas, transitioned to become Donna. Investigators wondered if Donna could be tried for crimes Douglas committed or would they be seen as separate and distinct people? Olsen details Douglas’ challenging childhood and numerous run ins with ATF agents. Olsen also dives into the reasons why Douglas transitioned and if it was solely to hide from the crimes. The book details how Donna believes changing her gender changes her personhood allowing her to disregard taking any responsibility for the actions of the person she was before. But as a female she showed no remorse for the murders and showed no compassion towards the victims.
By the River’s Edge is well researched but like typical Olsen books it can get slow in the middle. Donna’s jailhouse interview was long, repetitive and drawn out. That chapter could have benefited from further editing. Despite that, the book is compelling and detailed.
Thank you to Thomas & Mercer for this ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
By the River’s Edge is a true-crime exploration of a largely unusual and disturbing case. The book follows Douglas Perry, a man who engaged in a decades-long killing spree targeting prostitutes. The murders abruptly stopped when Perry underwent gender reassignment surgery, transitioning to Donna Perry. The core of the narrative focuses on the unprecedented legal and investigative challenges detectives and prosecutors faced while trying to close three of the related cold cases and bring justice to the victims' families.
It is clear that Gregg Olsen has done extensive research for this book. He delves into Perry's dark past, the dedication of law enforcement, and the complex trial that followed. Having previously read and been emotionally wrecked by Olsen’s heavy nonfiction work If You Tell, I was eager to read about this unique case.
While the book is undeniably well-researched, the pacing occasionally slowed down for me due to the dense level of detail. For instance, the highly technical descriptions of ballistics and bullet trajectories felt a bit excessive, and often information from the first half was repeated during the trial piece.
Personally, I would have preferred a more narrative-driven, emotional format rather than the matter-of-fact approach used here. However, true-crime fans who enjoy a very detailed, no-nonsense investigative procedural will probably like this style.
Ultimately, this is a deeply sad story for everyone involved. Despite my formatting preferences, Olsen is a compelling true-crime writer, and I look forward to reading more of his work.
Thank you to Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley for providing an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own.
It is clear that Gregg Olsen has done extensive research for this book. He delves into Perry's dark past, the dedication of law enforcement, and the complex trial that followed. Having previously read and been emotionally wrecked by Olsen’s heavy nonfiction work If You Tell, I was eager to read about this unique case.
While the book is undeniably well-researched, the pacing occasionally slowed down for me due to the dense level of detail. For instance, the highly technical descriptions of ballistics and bullet trajectories felt a bit excessive, and often information from the first half was repeated during the trial piece.
Personally, I would have preferred a more narrative-driven, emotional format rather than the matter-of-fact approach used here. However, true-crime fans who enjoy a very detailed, no-nonsense investigative procedural will probably like this style.
Ultimately, this is a deeply sad story for everyone involved. Despite my formatting preferences, Olsen is a compelling true-crime writer, and I look forward to reading more of his work.
Thank you to Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley for providing an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
From start to finish, this book had my full attention. The level of detail is incredible, and it’s clear just how much research and respect went into telling this story. I honestly struggled to put it down.
What makes this book so powerful is the writing itself. Gregg Olsen has a way of presenting real events in a way that feels immersive and compelling without ever feeling sensationalized. The narrative flows smoothly, the pacing is excellent, and even with the amount of detail included, it never feels overwhelming. Instead, it adds depth and weight, making every part of the story feel important.
The book explores a chilling true story involving identity, deception, and long-buried truths. Without giving anything away, the way Olsen unpacks the lives involved, particularly Donna Rebecca Perry / Douglas Perry, is both fascinating and haunting. You’re not just reading about crimes, you’re learning about people, their choices, and the devastating impact those choices had on others. I found myself constantly wanting to understand more, not out of morbid curiosity, but because the story is told with such humanity. The emotional weight of the story really lands, and it stayed with me long after I finished reading.
I don’t really know how to fully put into words how much I enjoyed reading this book and learning more about this case. It’s disturbing, thought-provoking, and incredibly well written. If you enjoy true crime that is detailed, respectful, and genuinely absorbing, By the River’s Edge is an absolute must-read.
It’s most definitely a clear 5 stars from me.
Thank you to Netgalley and Thomas & Mercer for my ARC copy.
What makes this book so powerful is the writing itself. Gregg Olsen has a way of presenting real events in a way that feels immersive and compelling without ever feeling sensationalized. The narrative flows smoothly, the pacing is excellent, and even with the amount of detail included, it never feels overwhelming. Instead, it adds depth and weight, making every part of the story feel important.
The book explores a chilling true story involving identity, deception, and long-buried truths. Without giving anything away, the way Olsen unpacks the lives involved, particularly Donna Rebecca Perry / Douglas Perry, is both fascinating and haunting. You’re not just reading about crimes, you’re learning about people, their choices, and the devastating impact those choices had on others. I found myself constantly wanting to understand more, not out of morbid curiosity, but because the story is told with such humanity. The emotional weight of the story really lands, and it stayed with me long after I finished reading.
I don’t really know how to fully put into words how much I enjoyed reading this book and learning more about this case. It’s disturbing, thought-provoking, and incredibly well written. If you enjoy true crime that is detailed, respectful, and genuinely absorbing, By the River’s Edge is an absolute must-read.
It’s most definitely a clear 5 stars from me.
Thank you to Netgalley and Thomas & Mercer for my ARC copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
In 1990 the bodies of Yolanda Sapp, Nickie Lowe and Kathy Brisbois are found on the banks of the Spokane River. They were part of a close knit circle of sex workers who worked together to protect each other, which, in their case, failed. Their brutal murders remained unsolved for twenty two years, until in 2012 a DNA cold hit points to Douglas Perry. A repeat assault offender, Perry is already incarcerated in Texas, but there is a twist. The facility is for female prisoners. Douglas Perry now goes by Donna Perry. Her gender reassignment ended a life of evil deeds, childhood trauma and pent up rage that was unleashed on over thirty victims, according to Donna herself. Through her surgery and reinvention, she believed she’d slain the monster within.
I really enjoyed this one. This was a case I knew nothing about, and I found myself googling the details as I was reading to see who these women were. This is my third book by this author, and while it didn’t reach the intensity and the previous two it was still really well written and captivating, often having me forget this was a true story and not a work of fiction. The author did a great job of showing who the victims were outside of that they did for work, and how their lives ended, showing how their deaths impacted their families and their communities. I also enjoyed getting an insight into the life and mind of Donna Perry, considering the motivations for these crimes and the potential reasons for her gender reassignment. Definitely one I’d recommend for fans of Gregg Olsen and True Crime.
Thanks to NetGalley and Brilliance Publishing for my ALC in exchange for my honest review.
I really enjoyed this one. This was a case I knew nothing about, and I found myself googling the details as I was reading to see who these women were. This is my third book by this author, and while it didn’t reach the intensity and the previous two it was still really well written and captivating, often having me forget this was a true story and not a work of fiction. The author did a great job of showing who the victims were outside of that they did for work, and how their lives ended, showing how their deaths impacted their families and their communities. I also enjoyed getting an insight into the life and mind of Donna Perry, considering the motivations for these crimes and the potential reasons for her gender reassignment. Definitely one I’d recommend for fans of Gregg Olsen and True Crime.
Thanks to NetGalley and Brilliance Publishing for my ALC in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Do you know what I love most about Gregg Olsen's books? He just understands the assignment. With great true crime, you just tell the story. Give the victims and their families a voice. Don't make excuses for the killer, but make them human. Finally, give the reader the story points they need to understand all the twists, turns, and investigative pitfalls. Once again, Olsen nails it with By the River's Edge.
This is not a story with an unknown killer lurking in the shadows until the final act. You know from the book summary that they were killed by Douglas Perry. The twist is that Douglas is now Donna. Where others would editorialize this fact, Olsen stays on task. He tells the story of the murders of Yolanda Sapp, Nickie Lowe, and Kathy Brisbois. I listed them out because this is one of the few serial killer books where I could actually name the victims from memory because Olsen makes them matter to the story. Each of these women was a sex worker, but also a mother, daughter, sister, or all three. Perry's murder of each of them is a tragedy and not book fodder.
I've read a few of Olsen's books, and I am somehow always surprised at how easily they flow. The book is north of 300 pages, but they fly by to the point it feels like 100 pages. There aren't extensive diatribes or the author trying to show off how much work he did in researching. This shows towards the end when he expertly provides the essential text of the family members in court. What can I say? The dude is really good at this.
(This book was provided as an advanced reader copy by Thomas & Mercer.)
This is not a story with an unknown killer lurking in the shadows until the final act. You know from the book summary that they were killed by Douglas Perry. The twist is that Douglas is now Donna. Where others would editorialize this fact, Olsen stays on task. He tells the story of the murders of Yolanda Sapp, Nickie Lowe, and Kathy Brisbois. I listed them out because this is one of the few serial killer books where I could actually name the victims from memory because Olsen makes them matter to the story. Each of these women was a sex worker, but also a mother, daughter, sister, or all three. Perry's murder of each of them is a tragedy and not book fodder.
I've read a few of Olsen's books, and I am somehow always surprised at how easily they flow. The book is north of 300 pages, but they fly by to the point it feels like 100 pages. There aren't extensive diatribes or the author trying to show off how much work he did in researching. This shows towards the end when he expertly provides the essential text of the family members in court. What can I say? The dude is really good at this.
(This book was provided as an advanced reader copy by Thomas & Mercer.)
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I was a big fan of true crime stories years ago but then switched to more thrillers and mysteries, however a couple of years ago I read If You Tell by Olsen and got me interested in true crime again.
Brief Summary: This is true crime story about a serial killer, Douglas Perry that killed three women in 1990. I must admit I have heard about different serial killers over the years and love true crime documentaries but I didn't remember reading, seeing or hearing anything about Perry so this story was new to me. I, of course, after reading the book, looked up Perry on the internet to see what documentaries there might be to watch too. What is unique with this serial killer is that he killed in 1990 but it took until 2012 with DNA technology to find out who he was and by then he was a woman named Donna Perry.
Olsen is excellent with the facts of the case, he is also excellent with providing background details and factual backstories and weaving it into an interesting book. He goes through the background of the three murdered women, the background of Douglas Perry and the background of Donna Perry, he also goes through the background of how the case was solved and the police and the legal parts. He also shows great respect for the victims and their families. He is very thorough in his research and it shows in the story. I really fell in love with his writing in his book If You Tell, one of my favorite true crime books ever.
Thank you Netgalley and Thomas and Mercer for the complimentary copy of the story, and a big Thank you to Gregg Olsen for masterfully telling the story!
Brief Summary: This is true crime story about a serial killer, Douglas Perry that killed three women in 1990. I must admit I have heard about different serial killers over the years and love true crime documentaries but I didn't remember reading, seeing or hearing anything about Perry so this story was new to me. I, of course, after reading the book, looked up Perry on the internet to see what documentaries there might be to watch too. What is unique with this serial killer is that he killed in 1990 but it took until 2012 with DNA technology to find out who he was and by then he was a woman named Donna Perry.
Olsen is excellent with the facts of the case, he is also excellent with providing background details and factual backstories and weaving it into an interesting book. He goes through the background of the three murdered women, the background of Douglas Perry and the background of Donna Perry, he also goes through the background of how the case was solved and the police and the legal parts. He also shows great respect for the victims and their families. He is very thorough in his research and it shows in the story. I really fell in love with his writing in his book If You Tell, one of my favorite true crime books ever.
Thank you Netgalley and Thomas and Mercer for the complimentary copy of the story, and a big Thank you to Gregg Olsen for masterfully telling the story!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
By the River's Edge by Gregg Olsen
There is no way I can say I enjoyed this true crime book. It contains so much I wish I never knew but I'm so glad that so much of what this murderer did was finally brought to light. Douglas who changed to Donna, is a serial killer and no changing of gender can erase all the horror that Douglas inflicted on others. Changing genders still left a trail of bodies behind and those dead woman needed the name of their murderer brought to light, whether the name used is Douglas or Donna.
It's not just the murders that are so disturbing. It's also that there are men and women who are trapped in their own special nightmare of addiction and mental illness in such ways that mean they will always be exposing themselves to danger and death for financial and other reasons. Women and men working the streets, selling their bodies, and driven to do things most would never want to do, are placed in situations where demented and cruel people can prey on them. These women were there for the taking when Douglas was in the mood to take. Whether it was upbringing, family life, whatever, Douglas grew up a troubled man and others paid the price for his inability to live a crimefree life.
Douglas, as Donna, thought the murders were in the past. Donna was living in a women's prison and if authorities were looking for the murderer of the women Douglas murdered, they surely weren't looking for a woman. Yet times and science move on and with the help of a DNA hit in 2012, it pointed to Douglas as a suspect in several murders. But Douglas was in a women's prison as Donna and what comes after that is so very interesting as the tangled web of Douglas/Donna and bad deeds is unwoven.
Many people were involved in bringing Perry to justice decades after crimes were committed and genders were changed. Witnesses and families came forward despite how difficult doing so would be on them, investigators who never gave up, never forgot the names of dead, kept coming back to try to find a serial killer who would not be found. I read mysteries, thrillers, and horror stories but nothing is as horrific as real life. I'm glad I read the book but would like to not read another like this one for a long time to come.
Expected pub June 23, 2026
Thank you to Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley for this ARC.
There is no way I can say I enjoyed this true crime book. It contains so much I wish I never knew but I'm so glad that so much of what this murderer did was finally brought to light. Douglas who changed to Donna, is a serial killer and no changing of gender can erase all the horror that Douglas inflicted on others. Changing genders still left a trail of bodies behind and those dead woman needed the name of their murderer brought to light, whether the name used is Douglas or Donna.
It's not just the murders that are so disturbing. It's also that there are men and women who are trapped in their own special nightmare of addiction and mental illness in such ways that mean they will always be exposing themselves to danger and death for financial and other reasons. Women and men working the streets, selling their bodies, and driven to do things most would never want to do, are placed in situations where demented and cruel people can prey on them. These women were there for the taking when Douglas was in the mood to take. Whether it was upbringing, family life, whatever, Douglas grew up a troubled man and others paid the price for his inability to live a crimefree life.
Douglas, as Donna, thought the murders were in the past. Donna was living in a women's prison and if authorities were looking for the murderer of the women Douglas murdered, they surely weren't looking for a woman. Yet times and science move on and with the help of a DNA hit in 2012, it pointed to Douglas as a suspect in several murders. But Douglas was in a women's prison as Donna and what comes after that is so very interesting as the tangled web of Douglas/Donna and bad deeds is unwoven.
Many people were involved in bringing Perry to justice decades after crimes were committed and genders were changed. Witnesses and families came forward despite how difficult doing so would be on them, investigators who never gave up, never forgot the names of dead, kept coming back to try to find a serial killer who would not be found. I read mysteries, thrillers, and horror stories but nothing is as horrific as real life. I'm glad I read the book but would like to not read another like this one for a long time to come.
Expected pub June 23, 2026
Thank you to Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley for this ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Storygraph
Release: June 23, 2026
Author: Gregg Olsen
Publisher: Thomas & Mercer
Rating: 4 ★
Thoughts:
This was disturbing but incredibly compelling. It leans heavily into the investigative side, and I appreciated how it centered the victims rather than just the killer. Definitely not an easy read, but it sticks with you.
This book suits someone in the mood for something: dark, informative, tense
Pace: medium
Plot or Character Driven?: n/a
Strong Character Development?: n/a
Loveable Characters?: n/a
Diverse Cast?: yes
Are Character Flaws a Main Focus?: yes
Main Themes / Tropes:
true crime, serial killer, cold case, justice system, marginalized victims
Synopsis:
This true crime narrative reconstructs a decades-long investigation into a series of brutal murders that haunted a Washington community, illuminating both the systemic failures and relentless pursuit of justice that defined the case. Through meticulous detail, the account foregrounds the lives of the victims while unraveling the complex identity and history of the perpetrator. The result is a sobering examination of violence, accountability, and the long-delayed reckoning that ultimately brought truth to light.
Favorite Quote:
"no one doing the work hunched over in a strangers car, on the bed in a shithole motel, or crouched down low in some alleyway ever dreamed of being a street hooker."
Author: Gregg Olsen
Publisher: Thomas & Mercer
Rating: 4 ★
Thoughts:
This was disturbing but incredibly compelling. It leans heavily into the investigative side, and I appreciated how it centered the victims rather than just the killer. Definitely not an easy read, but it sticks with you.
This book suits someone in the mood for something: dark, informative, tense
Pace: medium
Plot or Character Driven?: n/a
Strong Character Development?: n/a
Loveable Characters?: n/a
Diverse Cast?: yes
Are Character Flaws a Main Focus?: yes
Main Themes / Tropes:
true crime, serial killer, cold case, justice system, marginalized victims
Synopsis:
This true crime narrative reconstructs a decades-long investigation into a series of brutal murders that haunted a Washington community, illuminating both the systemic failures and relentless pursuit of justice that defined the case. Through meticulous detail, the account foregrounds the lives of the victims while unraveling the complex identity and history of the perpetrator. The result is a sobering examination of violence, accountability, and the long-delayed reckoning that ultimately brought truth to light.
Favorite Quote:
"no one doing the work hunched over in a strangers car, on the bed in a shithole motel, or crouched down low in some alleyway ever dreamed of being a street hooker."
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advanced reader copy of this audiobook.
This book centers on the true crime case of three women whose bodies were found along the banks of the Spokane River. The murders went unsolved for years with few leads until a DNA hit helped identify a suspect. That suspect was Douglas Perry, a known criminal who had previously come to the attention of the ATF for collecting and possessing illegal firearms. Investigators were shocked to learn that Douglas was now Donna and was serving time in a women's federal prison.
I found this case both fascinating and frustrating. Even after the suspect was identified, no clear motive was ever established, leaving many questions unanswered. The author does a good job handling a difficult and sensitive subject with care. I was especially intrigued by Donna's belief that she should not be held accountable for actions committed by Douglas before her reassignment surgery. It added an interesting and thought-provoking layer to an already unusual case.
The audiobook was well performed overall. There were a few moments, especially during some of the interview sections, where the pacing felt a little slow to me.
If you're a fan of true crime books, documentaries, or podcasts, I think you'll enjoy this one.
This book centers on the true crime case of three women whose bodies were found along the banks of the Spokane River. The murders went unsolved for years with few leads until a DNA hit helped identify a suspect. That suspect was Douglas Perry, a known criminal who had previously come to the attention of the ATF for collecting and possessing illegal firearms. Investigators were shocked to learn that Douglas was now Donna and was serving time in a women's federal prison.
I found this case both fascinating and frustrating. Even after the suspect was identified, no clear motive was ever established, leaving many questions unanswered. The author does a good job handling a difficult and sensitive subject with care. I was especially intrigued by Donna's belief that she should not be held accountable for actions committed by Douglas before her reassignment surgery. It added an interesting and thought-provoking layer to an already unusual case.
The audiobook was well performed overall. There were a few moments, especially during some of the interview sections, where the pacing felt a little slow to me.
If you're a fan of true crime books, documentaries, or podcasts, I think you'll enjoy this one.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Thank you @amazonpublishing #partner for the gifted copy of this book!
Well, well, well...this was quite the book! I had no idea fully what I was getting myself into with this one! This is one of those true crime reads that had me constantly stopping to think not just about the crimes that were committed but about all the legal and ethical questions too!
In this book, we get a peek into a serial killer who was responsible for the deaths of many women in Washington State. I think by the end of the book they think possibly 30-40 women. Shew! And after years of searching for answers and then advances in DNA the evidence finally came together to help identify the culprit. Sadly though, that discovery raised a whole new set of questions that investigators and prosecutors had to navigate. This case was anything but normal!
I think what fascinated me most about this book was that it wasn’t simply about catching a killer. It really became a story about identity and accountability of crimes. It questions, can someone be held responsible if they are no longer the original person? The prosecutors definitely had an incredibly complex case to prove!
Gregg did a great job of presenting the facts of the case. He was able to highlight the determination of the investigators who refused to let these victims be forgotten which always gives me life! Their persistence helped bring answers to these families that sorely needed answers some 25+ years later. Bless them! This book was extremely thought provoking and had me reflecting far more than I had anticipated. I genuinely think this would make a great book club discussion!
This book was truly a fascinating true crime read that left me with a lot to think about! If you are looking for a fresh take on a true crime book then this would be perfect for you!
Well, well, well...this was quite the book! I had no idea fully what I was getting myself into with this one! This is one of those true crime reads that had me constantly stopping to think not just about the crimes that were committed but about all the legal and ethical questions too!
In this book, we get a peek into a serial killer who was responsible for the deaths of many women in Washington State. I think by the end of the book they think possibly 30-40 women. Shew! And after years of searching for answers and then advances in DNA the evidence finally came together to help identify the culprit. Sadly though, that discovery raised a whole new set of questions that investigators and prosecutors had to navigate. This case was anything but normal!
I think what fascinated me most about this book was that it wasn’t simply about catching a killer. It really became a story about identity and accountability of crimes. It questions, can someone be held responsible if they are no longer the original person? The prosecutors definitely had an incredibly complex case to prove!
Gregg did a great job of presenting the facts of the case. He was able to highlight the determination of the investigators who refused to let these victims be forgotten which always gives me life! Their persistence helped bring answers to these families that sorely needed answers some 25+ years later. Bless them! This book was extremely thought provoking and had me reflecting far more than I had anticipated. I genuinely think this would make a great book club discussion!
This book was truly a fascinating true crime read that left me with a lot to think about! If you are looking for a fresh take on a true crime book then this would be perfect for you!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Truly just wow. I don’t think I have ever read a true crime book. Podcasts? Sure, love them. But books? Typically I like to stick to fun fiction and romance then dip into a thriller here or there.
By The River’s Edge is a true story of something you would think would have to be made up. I can’t say I’ve ever heard of this story and understandably so. It is a very hard story to tell to maintain neutrality and respect for all parties involved but I do feel Gregg Olsen did this so well. It is not easy to cover the sensitive topics of prostitution and gender identity. Douglas Perry, a man, accused of murdering three women, all sex workers in “the circle”, a group of women that look out for each other. However, 20 years after the crimes, Douglas Perry is actually now Donna Perry, who underwent a gender reassignment surgery in Thailand. Was this a way to stop the killings of the man Douglas Perry? Or was this a tactic to get away with murder? We may never know. But this is the story from multiple angles on Douglas/Donna Perry and the three women: Yolanda Sapp, Nickie Lowe, and Kathy Brisbois who were all taken too soon.
Thank you to Gregg Olsen and NetGalley for the ARC copy.
By The River’s Edge is a true story of something you would think would have to be made up. I can’t say I’ve ever heard of this story and understandably so. It is a very hard story to tell to maintain neutrality and respect for all parties involved but I do feel Gregg Olsen did this so well. It is not easy to cover the sensitive topics of prostitution and gender identity. Douglas Perry, a man, accused of murdering three women, all sex workers in “the circle”, a group of women that look out for each other. However, 20 years after the crimes, Douglas Perry is actually now Donna Perry, who underwent a gender reassignment surgery in Thailand. Was this a way to stop the killings of the man Douglas Perry? Or was this a tactic to get away with murder? We may never know. But this is the story from multiple angles on Douglas/Donna Perry and the three women: Yolanda Sapp, Nickie Lowe, and Kathy Brisbois who were all taken too soon.
Thank you to Gregg Olsen and NetGalley for the ARC copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This true crime book about a 1990s Spokane serial killer tells a compelling and heartbreaking story, especially in its portrayal of the victims and their families. It reads more like a detailed case file, dense with facts, repeated conversations, and extensive documentation.
While the thoroughness provides a complete and well-rounded view of the case, it can feel repetitive and slow at times, which may lessen its emotional impact. If you're expecting a fast paced, psychological thriller style this is not for you but if you prefer an in depth, factual approach to true crime, you will likely appreciate the level of detail and the way multiple perspectives, particularly from witnesses and detectives, are woven together.
The book also raises intriguing questions, including the complexities of prosecuting a defendant who transitioned genders after committing the crimes, and the claim that this transition ended prior violent impulses. Overall, it is an interesting and thought provoking case, though the heavy, detail focused style may not appeal to everyone.
Thank you NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for ARC!
While the thoroughness provides a complete and well-rounded view of the case, it can feel repetitive and slow at times, which may lessen its emotional impact. If you're expecting a fast paced, psychological thriller style this is not for you but if you prefer an in depth, factual approach to true crime, you will likely appreciate the level of detail and the way multiple perspectives, particularly from witnesses and detectives, are woven together.
The book also raises intriguing questions, including the complexities of prosecuting a defendant who transitioned genders after committing the crimes, and the claim that this transition ended prior violent impulses. Overall, it is an interesting and thought provoking case, though the heavy, detail focused style may not appeal to everyone.
Thank you NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Title: By the River's Edge
Author: Gregg Olsen
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟
Publication Date: June 23, 2026
I love true crime books and this case was fascinating to me. I couldn't wait to find out if the gender surgery would make a difference in the final outcome. It's crazy how long it took for families to have closure. Thank God for the advancement of DNA. Without the scientific knowledge of DNA, so many criminals would still be walking free.
One issue I seem to have with Olsen's books are the manner in which he writes. They don't seem to flow in a fashion that makes sense. One paragraph discusses events that occurred in 1990 and then the very next paragraph details events that occurred in the early 70s. It just doesn't make sense to me, and it's very difficult to follow.
You can tell that the author has done his due diligence researching and presenting accurate information.
This was not my favorite Olsen book, but it also wasn't my least favorite.
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion/review.
Author: Gregg Olsen
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟
Publication Date: June 23, 2026
I love true crime books and this case was fascinating to me. I couldn't wait to find out if the gender surgery would make a difference in the final outcome. It's crazy how long it took for families to have closure. Thank God for the advancement of DNA. Without the scientific knowledge of DNA, so many criminals would still be walking free.
One issue I seem to have with Olsen's books are the manner in which he writes. They don't seem to flow in a fashion that makes sense. One paragraph discusses events that occurred in 1990 and then the very next paragraph details events that occurred in the early 70s. It just doesn't make sense to me, and it's very difficult to follow.
You can tell that the author has done his due diligence researching and presenting accurate information.
This was not my favorite Olsen book, but it also wasn't my least favorite.
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion/review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A chilling almost unbelievable true crime story.
After reading If You Tell, I knew Gregg Olsen does not hold back on any gruesome or horrific details. By The River's Edge tells the story of a decades long man hunt for the killer of three prostitutes in 1990 in Washington. The cases went unsolved until DNA evidence became a piece of crime solving. Due to the inability of several law enforcement officers to let this case go cold, old evidence was re-examined.
In 2012, there was a DNA match found with Douglas Perry. Douglas Perry was a frequent offender with his obsession with firearms and was currently in custody. The surprise was that he was currently at a women's prison under the name Donna Perry. Through a gender reassignment surgery, Donna believed she had rid herself of the torment of her past along with any violence Douglas turned to.
I had not heard of this case prior to reading this book, but found it incredibly interesting.
This book publishes on June 23, 2026. Thank you NetGalley and publisher for this advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.
After reading If You Tell, I knew Gregg Olsen does not hold back on any gruesome or horrific details. By The River's Edge tells the story of a decades long man hunt for the killer of three prostitutes in 1990 in Washington. The cases went unsolved until DNA evidence became a piece of crime solving. Due to the inability of several law enforcement officers to let this case go cold, old evidence was re-examined.
In 2012, there was a DNA match found with Douglas Perry. Douglas Perry was a frequent offender with his obsession with firearms and was currently in custody. The surprise was that he was currently at a women's prison under the name Donna Perry. Through a gender reassignment surgery, Donna believed she had rid herself of the torment of her past along with any violence Douglas turned to.
I had not heard of this case prior to reading this book, but found it incredibly interesting.
This book publishes on June 23, 2026. Thank you NetGalley and publisher for this advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
[A review of an advanced copy provided by NetGalley]
4🌟
“I want to thank my mom for scratching up this man so that he could meet a real woman” DEAR LORD.
To say that this book touched me in every way possible would be an understatement. It felt like a very extended episode of criminal minds, and knowing that the it’s a true story made it even more intense.
The research and storytelling was insane. No one can convince me that this book wouldn’t be a NY Times bestseller. The book will haunt me for a while, it will make me realize how small our problems are compared to some other people, it will remind me to have sympathy towards every human being no matter what they do in their lives, and lastly, it will maintain my belief in the knowledge that no one is above god to decide who deserves to live and how dies.
Rest in hell Douglas Perry, you were the worst creature I’ve ever known.
Thank you so much NetGalley, Thomas & Mercer and Brilliance audiobooks for giving me a chance to enjoy this book!💞
4🌟
“I want to thank my mom for scratching up this man so that he could meet a real woman” DEAR LORD.
To say that this book touched me in every way possible would be an understatement. It felt like a very extended episode of criminal minds, and knowing that the it’s a true story made it even more intense.
The research and storytelling was insane. No one can convince me that this book wouldn’t be a NY Times bestseller. The book will haunt me for a while, it will make me realize how small our problems are compared to some other people, it will remind me to have sympathy towards every human being no matter what they do in their lives, and lastly, it will maintain my belief in the knowledge that no one is above god to decide who deserves to live and how dies.
Rest in hell Douglas Perry, you were the worst creature I’ve ever known.
Thank you so much NetGalley, Thomas & Mercer and Brilliance audiobooks for giving me a chance to enjoy this book!💞
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
🎧📚 4/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ stars
Gregg Olsen is back with another chilling true crime story, and while this one didn’t quite hit the same level as my last few reads from him, he still proves why he is such a standout in the genre.
The attention to detail, the investigative reporting, and the way he brings real-life cases to the page are what make his books so compelling. This was heartbreaking, unsettling, and a reminder of the incredible work that goes into telling these stories with care.
The audiobook narration added another layer to the experience and kept me invested from start to finish. If you enjoy true crime that focuses on the people behind the headlines, Gregg Olsen continues to deliver. 🎧
Thanks to NetGalley and Brilliance Publishing for the early audible arc!
#BookTok #BookReview #AudiobookReview #TrueCrimeBooks #GreggOlsen #TrueCrimeTok #NetGalley #ARCReview #MysteryBooks #CrimeReaders #AudiobookLovers
Gregg Olsen is back with another chilling true crime story, and while this one didn’t quite hit the same level as my last few reads from him, he still proves why he is such a standout in the genre.
The attention to detail, the investigative reporting, and the way he brings real-life cases to the page are what make his books so compelling. This was heartbreaking, unsettling, and a reminder of the incredible work that goes into telling these stories with care.
The audiobook narration added another layer to the experience and kept me invested from start to finish. If you enjoy true crime that focuses on the people behind the headlines, Gregg Olsen continues to deliver. 🎧
Thanks to NetGalley and Brilliance Publishing for the early audible arc!
#BookTok #BookReview #AudiobookReview #TrueCrimeBooks #GreggOlsen #TrueCrimeTok #NetGalley #ARCReview #MysteryBooks #CrimeReaders #AudiobookLovers
Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews