What do you think?
Rate this book
Convergence
This story seems impossible.
But every word is true. Convergence is the account of a vicious double homicide in 1970s Chicago and a trial that almost didn't happen.
This is a different kind of true crime book. It isn't a mystery, because the killer was arrested right away. It's not a police story, although Convergence is there at every step of their investigation. It's not a defense lawyer's story. This is a story from the other side of the courtroom.
Convergence is the story of Gio Messina and Delphine Moore's murders and the trial that followed, but this time told from the perspective of the prosecution. You are there to witness how a case is built, how it's brought to court, and how it unfolds when the trial starts. You see what happens when power and money try and keep the trial from starting at all. You follow the prosecution from the courtrooms of Chicago to rural Tennessee looking for new evidence to replace the evidence that's vanished.
You're introduced to the choreography of the courtroom: listening in on the careful strategizing, understanding the thought behind what a jury hears, and getting a close view of what's involved in how it's presented. Most importantly, you're introduced to Mike Goggin and Gregg Owen, the two prosecutors who fought to have the case heard. Goggin and Owen had set a record for convictions that still stands. They refused to let the Messina and Moore murders break it.
Convergence is a historical snapshot of a time when Chicago was changing, and a timeless picture of how justice is sought and found.
But every word is true. Convergence is the account of a vicious double homicide in 1970s Chicago and a trial that almost didn't happen.
This is a different kind of true crime book. It isn't a mystery, because the killer was arrested right away. It's not a police story, although Convergence is there at every step of their investigation. It's not a defense lawyer's story. This is a story from the other side of the courtroom.
Convergence is the story of Gio Messina and Delphine Moore's murders and the trial that followed, but this time told from the perspective of the prosecution. You are there to witness how a case is built, how it's brought to court, and how it unfolds when the trial starts. You see what happens when power and money try and keep the trial from starting at all. You follow the prosecution from the courtrooms of Chicago to rural Tennessee looking for new evidence to replace the evidence that's vanished.
You're introduced to the choreography of the courtroom: listening in on the careful strategizing, understanding the thought behind what a jury hears, and getting a close view of what's involved in how it's presented. Most importantly, you're introduced to Mike Goggin and Gregg Owen, the two prosecutors who fought to have the case heard. Goggin and Owen had set a record for convictions that still stands. They refused to let the Messina and Moore murders break it.
Convergence is a historical snapshot of a time when Chicago was changing, and a timeless picture of how justice is sought and found.
538 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 17, 2025
37 people are currently reading
8369 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
October 2, 2025
A double homicide in 1970’s Chicago almost falls through the cracks except for the diligence of two prosecutors in Convergence, an interesting inside look from a prosecutor’s POV. Author and prosecutor Gregg Owen is the star here, and he details his transformation from rock star to attorney, and his folksy narrative helps make this an easy and enjoyable read. Instead of a dry recitation of case facts, the reader gets what feels like a blend of fiction and true crime as the author goes through the circumstances of the case, the police investigation, and the countless hours of finding and cajoling witnesses into testifying. The courtroom scenes are topnotch, and save for a few loose ends left unfinished, this is well done and satisfying journey into a world few outsiders see. I received an ARC of this book from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
December 1, 2025
Overall Book Rating: 2.5 stars
This book is basically a not-so-humble brag of the authors. It was WAY too long and had many unnecessary details. I should have DNF'd, but alas, by the time I got totally fed up with the book, it was too late. It was at least a new-to-me case. I wish it had been told differently.
Narrator Rating: 3.0 stars
The main narrator did a decent job, though most of the people listed are only used for one or two chapters.
Read if you're in the mood for something: adventurous, dark, informative, & medium-paced
Content Warnings
This book is basically a not-so-humble brag of the authors. It was WAY too long and had many unnecessary details. I should have DNF'd, but alas, by the time I got totally fed up with the book, it was too late. It was at least a new-to-me case. I wish it had been told differently.
Narrator Rating: 3.0 stars
The main narrator did a decent job, though most of the people listed are only used for one or two chapters.
Read if you're in the mood for something: adventurous, dark, informative, & medium-paced
Content Warnings
October 9, 2025
I received an ARC copy of this through NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
I hate this, but my honest opinion is that this book was almost unreadable and was a DNF for me at about 15%. The writing for me was overwrought, the changing perspectives distracting, not helpful, the self-aggrandizement obvious, and I simply couldn't make it through to the apparently interesting investigation/trial, etc. As an attorney I was looking forward to this, but as a reader I just couldn't do it.
I hate this, but my honest opinion is that this book was almost unreadable and was a DNF for me at about 15%. The writing for me was overwrought, the changing perspectives distracting, not helpful, the self-aggrandizement obvious, and I simply couldn't make it through to the apparently interesting investigation/trial, etc. As an attorney I was looking forward to this, but as a reader I just couldn't do it.
January 5, 2026
The synopsis of this book sounded very interesting. We all love a good true crime story, right? But, unfortunately, the actual case wasn’t as interesting as the synopsis led me to believe.
The book was well written and the very detailed. I might say even too detailed at times. There were a lot of moments that I don’t think needed to be included as they didn’t add anything to the story or character arches. I think it probably could have been at least 1/3 shorter or even half as long and still told the story in an interesting way.
I just kept waiting for a twist to happen. Something in the case that would justify saying “This story seems impossible. But every word is true.” This case seemed pretty straightforward to me and not impossible in the least bit.
The authors used characters’ last names the majority of the time when the narrator was speaking, but a lot of times when characters were referring to others’ they would use their first names, so that got really confusing trying to figure out who did what and when.
I will say, though, that the investigation and how the prosecution built their case was interesting to read about. This book was entertaining and an interesting read, but not something that is going to stick with me.
I received a a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and statements are my own.
The book was well written and the very detailed. I might say even too detailed at times. There were a lot of moments that I don’t think needed to be included as they didn’t add anything to the story or character arches. I think it probably could have been at least 1/3 shorter or even half as long and still told the story in an interesting way.
I just kept waiting for a twist to happen. Something in the case that would justify saying “This story seems impossible. But every word is true.” This case seemed pretty straightforward to me and not impossible in the least bit.
The authors used characters’ last names the majority of the time when the narrator was speaking, but a lot of times when characters were referring to others’ they would use their first names, so that got really confusing trying to figure out who did what and when.
I will say, though, that the investigation and how the prosecution built their case was interesting to read about. This book was entertaining and an interesting read, but not something that is going to stick with me.
I received a a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and statements are my own.
September 30, 2025
Convergence, by Jonathan Dixon and Gregg Owen, is an excellent true crime book that blends several types smoothly into one.
Like many true crime books we get a first hand look at building the case, both from the police perspective and the prosecutor's perspective. The first part pretty much walks us through the events of and surrounding the crime in a narrative fashion that is written every bit as compelling as a novel. We also get plenty of background of the key people involved, especially Owen's, which helps us relate and understand them better. So we have a character-driven police procedural that evolves into a legal/judicial procedural, all told in a way that keeps you on the edge of your seat. That is a nice package for a true story.
There were a few viewpoints, whether from Dixon or Owen I don't know, that I found off-putting. Nothing major, just a few sweeping generalities about people, but enough to tell me that, as much as I might respect the writing and the ethical approach to prosecution, I might not like either of them personally. Again, it says something about the book that I could have those moments and still find the book engrossing.
It also, whether intentionally or not, says a lot about the sense of entitlement children of rich parents feel, as well as their mistaken sense of superiority. You don't have to look any further than the White House right now to see the same thing as the murderer playing out on a national level, with many more than two victims.
Recommended for fans of true crime and I also think fans of crime fiction will enjoy the way the story is told.
Reviewed from a copy made available by the publisher via NetGalley.
Like many true crime books we get a first hand look at building the case, both from the police perspective and the prosecutor's perspective. The first part pretty much walks us through the events of and surrounding the crime in a narrative fashion that is written every bit as compelling as a novel. We also get plenty of background of the key people involved, especially Owen's, which helps us relate and understand them better. So we have a character-driven police procedural that evolves into a legal/judicial procedural, all told in a way that keeps you on the edge of your seat. That is a nice package for a true story.
There were a few viewpoints, whether from Dixon or Owen I don't know, that I found off-putting. Nothing major, just a few sweeping generalities about people, but enough to tell me that, as much as I might respect the writing and the ethical approach to prosecution, I might not like either of them personally. Again, it says something about the book that I could have those moments and still find the book engrossing.
It also, whether intentionally or not, says a lot about the sense of entitlement children of rich parents feel, as well as their mistaken sense of superiority. You don't have to look any further than the White House right now to see the same thing as the murderer playing out on a national level, with many more than two victims.
Recommended for fans of true crime and I also think fans of crime fiction will enjoy the way the story is told.
Reviewed from a copy made available by the publisher via NetGalley.
November 9, 2025
I believe I first heard of this book while reading ‘Chicago’ magazine, and as I did a bit of research, I learned that these brutal murders happened two blocks from where I currently live. I was a teenager (Chicago born/raised) at the time so I had no prior knowledge of the crime. Due to my proximity to and personal knowledge of the building where this happened, I felt compelled to read the story.
To be honest, the first 25ish pages were a bit difficult to get through because of the writing style and editing. I found numerous errors (spelling, judge’s names) which then put me on the path to identify more (I hate when that happens). Eventually, the writing style and attention to detail improved, and I was hooked (finished the book in four days).
If you’re a fan of true crime, this story will hold your attention and have you rooting for the prosecution (holding your breath, waiting for the jury’s verdict!). Definitely recommend.
To be honest, the first 25ish pages were a bit difficult to get through because of the writing style and editing. I found numerous errors (spelling, judge’s names) which then put me on the path to identify more (I hate when that happens). Eventually, the writing style and attention to detail improved, and I was hooked (finished the book in four days).
If you’re a fan of true crime, this story will hold your attention and have you rooting for the prosecution (holding your breath, waiting for the jury’s verdict!). Definitely recommend.
December 3, 2025
Convergence is an engaging and thought-provoking read that blends brilliant storytelling with steady suspense. Jonathan Dixon and Gregg Owen craft a world filled with sharp twists, layered characters, and a plot that keeps you curious from start to finish. The pacing is strong, and the authors do a great job building tension without losing the emotional threads that make the story feel grounded.
There were a few moments where I would have liked a bit more depth or clarity, but overall, the book delivers a gripping narrative with plenty of intrigue. It’s the kind of story that stays on your mind after you’ve finished, making you rethink earlier chapters in a new light.
A compelling and well-crafted read, definitely worth picking up if you enjoy suspense with substance.
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
There were a few moments where I would have liked a bit more depth or clarity, but overall, the book delivers a gripping narrative with plenty of intrigue. It’s the kind of story that stays on your mind after you’ve finished, making you rethink earlier chapters in a new light.
A compelling and well-crafted read, definitely worth picking up if you enjoy suspense with substance.
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
September 23, 2025
A compelling look at a murder and trial from the prosecution's viewpoint. In 1970s Chicago, life was cheap, crime was rampant, and law enforcement was often ineffective. In this case, the prosecuting attorneys refused to let the deaths of these two men go unpunished. Justice would win thanks to their efforts. If you are a fan of police procedurals, you'll find CONVERGENCE spellbinding. At every step of the investigation and prosecution, they would face attempts to keep the killers out of prison. This is an excellent look at one of America's largest cities and their struggle to protect citizens.
September 7, 2025
Convergence is a great tale with many twists and turns. The main character and author Gregg Owen along with Jonathan Dixon takes us through time and life changes on a journey to becoming a very strong Cook County States Attorney and Prosecutor. A double murder that is almost lost in the system is revived and the ins and outs of the prosecution and the trial will leave you wondering how things like this could happen. But, hey IT IS Chicago. The best part of this is it’s a true story and I couldn’t put it down.
September 16, 2025
I lived in Chicago for many years and worked in a large law firm. I am an avid fan of true crime books and legal thrillers. Convergence by Gregg Owen and Jonathan Dixon is a true crime book that held my interest from start to finish. It's about a real murder case from a long time ago in Chicago and it is told by the prosecutor. Even though you know who the killer is, it is the work that goes into a case, the problems of missing evidence and fighting corruption that makes this book an exciting and honest story. Highly recommend this book.
September 18, 2025
A brutal murder of two young people has occurred and the police have arrested the wealthy killer. Yet no one is working on the case to bring it to trial and it appears the killer will go free. Convergence is the true and compelling story of two talented prosecutors, Gregg Owen and Michael Goggin who work up the case and grab victory from the jaws of defeat. The reader will marvel at the relentless work by them both outside the courtroom and at trial as they deliver justice for the victims.
October 31, 2025
This was a fascinating story, and it was especially interesting to approach true crime from the perspective of the prosecutors! The characters were interesting and engaging, and watching the process of building the prosecution’s murder case was compelling. I listened to the audio book version, and the narration was great, particularly the “cast” reading the closing arguments. That was a really meaningful and special touch. Loved it!
August 25, 2025
This was an awesome true crime read about a gruesome double murder and the events that followed. It looked like the killer was going to get away with the murders because of his family’s wealth. Loved the writing, the pacing, and the overall page-turning way the story is laid out.
September 14, 2025
Being a big fan of Connelley's Haller and Bosch it was refreshing to see a character likeness in Owen and Goggin as the story played out. Kept me up turning the pages for the outcome. Best of all unlike Haller and Bosch the characters and story was true
September 15, 2025
Excellent crime read. Riveting true story of a double murder case and the two prosecutors’ fight for justice. A well written page turner with vivid details that’s tough to put down. Intriguing and highly recommended!
November 4, 2025
A good read. This book is gripping. It dives into a 1970s double homicide in Chicago, but here’s the twist: it’s told from the prosecution’s perspective, not the defense. You get to see how they built a case from basically thin air like, no smoking gun, just pure strategy and grit.
September 1, 2025
Great writing. Fast pace. Amazing story.
September 9, 2025
All the twist and turns of a double murder coupled with 2 amazing state attorneys making sur the truth came out. And a true story. a great read!
September 11, 2025
I really enjoyed reading the book. It gives you great insights into the investigation and prosecution a very unusual murder case.
September 14, 2025
Captivating. Keeps you on the edge of your seat. Entertaining story retelling.
September 14, 2025
🎯🎯🎯🎯🎯🖤
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 17, 2025
A fresh take on true crime novels, written directly by one of the actual prosecutors on the case!! If you ever wanted to see all that goes into investigating and prosecuting a murder trial, this book is for you. I couldn’t put it down! A must read.
September 15, 2025
True crime fans will be captivated by this book: immersive reporting, clear timelines, and sharply drawn people create a gripping narrative that’s both informative and impossible to put down.
September 15, 2025
OK, I can’t really say true. Crimes are at the top of my list but what this one’s got me couldn’t put it down.
September 17, 2025
If you’re a fan of true crime, you should read this book. It’s about 2 young asst. DAs that were brave enough to open a case that was destined to let off a privileged killer from going free.
September 17, 2025
Great true crime story.Riveting. I felt like I was there as I read the book. Hard to put down. You should read this book!
September 17, 2025
This is an awesome book! It is a true story that you can't put down: I read it in one weekend!
September 15, 2025
True crime that reads like a novel. Dixon and Owen weave a masterful tale of a terrible event. The writing is sharp and the pacing is electric. Can’t wait until this book inevitably becomes a TV series.
December 30, 2025
This was fun to read, despite the heavy topic. The changing perspectives kept my interest and made it more intriguing. It's a crazy and dynamic story; I'm surprised more people haven't heard about it. The book is long, though, and it wasn't justifiably so, that's what brings this rating down. It was hard to make myself continue reading. It was writen with a lot of dialogue so it is so easy to see this as a movie. But this also made me doubt a bit the veracity because it's difficult to find sources to back up everything that was said, so it requires faith in the author and his research, but it made it easy to read.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC; this opinion is fully my own.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC; this opinion is fully my own.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews