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All Manner of Evil : The Unmasking of H. H. Holmes
1894: It’s the beginning of the end for H. H. Holmes. After more than a decade committing a swath of crimes from Texas to Toronto, investigators are hot on the trail of the most daring and eccentric criminal of the age. What began as a man wanted for conspiracy to commit fraud turns into an extensive investigation that would reveal unspeakable horrors.
Detective Frank Geyer of Philadelphia is assigned his most bizarre and dramatic case to date, where he’ll exhaust an entire summer searching for three missing children. All the while, in Chicago, exploration into Holmes’ World’s Fair Hotel grips a nation. The press dub it the “Murder Castle.”
Witness the very real investigation and sensational trial that put a stop to the century’s most ruthless killer. A man born and bred in rural New Hampshire, who evolved into one of the most unique violators of law in American history. A handsome charmer skillfully making a place for himself among polite society while hiding an ugly secret.
This is the unmasking of Henry Howard Holmes.
Detective Frank Geyer of Philadelphia is assigned his most bizarre and dramatic case to date, where he’ll exhaust an entire summer searching for three missing children. All the while, in Chicago, exploration into Holmes’ World’s Fair Hotel grips a nation. The press dub it the “Murder Castle.”
Witness the very real investigation and sensational trial that put a stop to the century’s most ruthless killer. A man born and bred in rural New Hampshire, who evolved into one of the most unique violators of law in American history. A handsome charmer skillfully making a place for himself among polite society while hiding an ugly secret.
This is the unmasking of Henry Howard Holmes.
550 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 4, 2026
About the author
Avree Kelly Clark
2 books93 followersAvree Kelly Clark is the award-winning author of Malice Aforethought, about a historic local murder in her former hometown of Pembroke, New Hampshire. Avree’s second novel is about the most famous serial killer to come out of her native state—Herman Webster Mudgett, alias H. H. Holmes.
Avree’s love of history, forensics, and research, along with her natural curiosity, inspires her to write about true stories in an entertaining and digestible way, where often the truth is stranger than fiction.
When she’s not working on her next book, Avree’s a freelance proofreader and copy editor who enjoys reading, long walks, puzzling, healthful living, and visiting the rocky coast of Maine with her favorite person—her husband of eighteen years. Avree and her husband live in New Hampshire with their adorable cat, Aloysius.
Avree’s love of history, forensics, and research, along with her natural curiosity, inspires her to write about true stories in an entertaining and digestible way, where often the truth is stranger than fiction.
When she’s not working on her next book, Avree’s a freelance proofreader and copy editor who enjoys reading, long walks, puzzling, healthful living, and visiting the rocky coast of Maine with her favorite person—her husband of eighteen years. Avree and her husband live in New Hampshire with their adorable cat, Aloysius.
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July 9, 2026Why Did I Write About Holmes?
Whether you know nothing about Holmes or believe you know everything about him, this story just might prove to be stranger than the fiction you have been sold in regard to the details . . .
I'm convinced you could assign ten people to write about a given topic, and no two people would approach it the exact same way. Some would be tempted to heavily embellish—with the story being merely inspired by true events. Then there are the ones—the sticklers like me—who wish to remain within the bounds of facts, faithfully recreating the story without exaggeration but aiming to play up the drama.
I set out to research the story of Holmes myself, to see if I could find a unique angle or fresh take on the story, which I believe I have done! What I unearthed is a true story of the real and complete investigation, which is much more exciting than the sheer fabrication, invention, and sensationalism when it comes to this story in countless books, podcasts, so-called documentaries, and online videos covering the case. I prefer knowing I'm being told the real information, so I set out to write such a book. It is in creating dialogue, inspired by real testimony, that causes me to write historical fiction rather than narrative nonfiction.
I accessed ONLY firsthand accounts in researching this book, bringing the story to life through the use of over 400 newspaper articles (approaching with a healthy suspicion of the yellow press), Detective Geyer's own 500-page book that provided many of the real letters I have included in my story (some of them abridged), the complete court transcript (which was a highly entertaining trial, let me tell you), and even Holmes' book titled My Own Words, for which portions of his pathetic diary entries make it into this story, adding a layer of eeriness to be inside the mind of this psychopath—a man who exuded charm but lacked empathy and was a master manipulator.
As for the length of my book, coming in at 513 pages for the paperback, I started out at a whopping 240,000-word story for my first draft, ultimately paring it down to 158,000 words thanks to the help of my faithful beta reading team. I wanted to respect the reader's time by excising portions that were superfluous or ultimately led to a whole lot of nothing during the investigation. Improving upon my craft since my first book, it was important for me to not include info dumps or tangents in the telling.
The story you are about to read is a faithful reporting on exactly how this story unfolded, what all was found and not found of importance, and is no less chilling than the false and exaggerated story that abounds on the subject of H. H. Holmes.
Why Did I Choose to Write This Story, Specifically?
After successfully writing about a local true crime that occurred in the autumn of 1875, in my former hometown of Pembroke, New Hampshire, I naturally thought that I should, maybe, stick to crime writing for the time being, and so I considered a popular serial killer who was born and raised in New Hampshire to look into myself in order to write the story similarly to how I approached my first book.
Essentially, when I do write about crime, I like to know that I'm giving the reader the real investigation (regardless if there are some false directions or lines of inquiry that turn into nothing) and can, I hope, get the reader invested in these real lives that were affected by such villains—getting the reader to care and feel something on an emotional level. It is very important that, upon reading this book, the reader will be able to name the most-likely victims of this monster rather than only being able to name the killer.
Will I Only Write Crime?
I found that I love to bring stories of real people and events to life, enabling readers to time travel in a way, and so I intend to cover various historical topics and stories—some of which will be centered around a crime and others passion subjects of mine.
THANK YOU!
I wish to take a moment to thank any and all who join me on this writing journey that is, admittedly, quite intimidating, leaving one vulnerable. And though I know I cannot write to suit everyone's taste, I'm grateful for anyone who gives me a fair shake. Just know that when you pick up a book of mine, it was written to try to teach the real story in a way that is entertaining and easy to digest, my main aim always being to educate and captivate while doing so.
If you enjoyed reading this blog-style post, consider checking out my author blog on my Author Website, where you'll get behind-the-scenes details into my author journey and the realities of what it's like being a self-published author.
Keeping history alive!
Avree Kelly Clark
Whether you know nothing about Holmes or believe you know everything about him, this story just might prove to be stranger than the fiction you have been sold in regard to the details . . .
I'm convinced you could assign ten people to write about a given topic, and no two people would approach it the exact same way. Some would be tempted to heavily embellish—with the story being merely inspired by true events. Then there are the ones—the sticklers like me—who wish to remain within the bounds of facts, faithfully recreating the story without exaggeration but aiming to play up the drama.
I set out to research the story of Holmes myself, to see if I could find a unique angle or fresh take on the story, which I believe I have done! What I unearthed is a true story of the real and complete investigation, which is much more exciting than the sheer fabrication, invention, and sensationalism when it comes to this story in countless books, podcasts, so-called documentaries, and online videos covering the case. I prefer knowing I'm being told the real information, so I set out to write such a book. It is in creating dialogue, inspired by real testimony, that causes me to write historical fiction rather than narrative nonfiction.
I accessed ONLY firsthand accounts in researching this book, bringing the story to life through the use of over 400 newspaper articles (approaching with a healthy suspicion of the yellow press), Detective Geyer's own 500-page book that provided many of the real letters I have included in my story (some of them abridged), the complete court transcript (which was a highly entertaining trial, let me tell you), and even Holmes' book titled My Own Words, for which portions of his pathetic diary entries make it into this story, adding a layer of eeriness to be inside the mind of this psychopath—a man who exuded charm but lacked empathy and was a master manipulator.
As for the length of my book, coming in at 513 pages for the paperback, I started out at a whopping 240,000-word story for my first draft, ultimately paring it down to 158,000 words thanks to the help of my faithful beta reading team. I wanted to respect the reader's time by excising portions that were superfluous or ultimately led to a whole lot of nothing during the investigation. Improving upon my craft since my first book, it was important for me to not include info dumps or tangents in the telling.
The story you are about to read is a faithful reporting on exactly how this story unfolded, what all was found and not found of importance, and is no less chilling than the false and exaggerated story that abounds on the subject of H. H. Holmes.
Why Did I Choose to Write This Story, Specifically?
After successfully writing about a local true crime that occurred in the autumn of 1875, in my former hometown of Pembroke, New Hampshire, I naturally thought that I should, maybe, stick to crime writing for the time being, and so I considered a popular serial killer who was born and raised in New Hampshire to look into myself in order to write the story similarly to how I approached my first book.
Essentially, when I do write about crime, I like to know that I'm giving the reader the real investigation (regardless if there are some false directions or lines of inquiry that turn into nothing) and can, I hope, get the reader invested in these real lives that were affected by such villains—getting the reader to care and feel something on an emotional level. It is very important that, upon reading this book, the reader will be able to name the most-likely victims of this monster rather than only being able to name the killer.
Will I Only Write Crime?
I found that I love to bring stories of real people and events to life, enabling readers to time travel in a way, and so I intend to cover various historical topics and stories—some of which will be centered around a crime and others passion subjects of mine.
THANK YOU!
I wish to take a moment to thank any and all who join me on this writing journey that is, admittedly, quite intimidating, leaving one vulnerable. And though I know I cannot write to suit everyone's taste, I'm grateful for anyone who gives me a fair shake. Just know that when you pick up a book of mine, it was written to try to teach the real story in a way that is entertaining and easy to digest, my main aim always being to educate and captivate while doing so.
If you enjoyed reading this blog-style post, consider checking out my author blog on my Author Website, where you'll get behind-the-scenes details into my author journey and the realities of what it's like being a self-published author.
Keeping history alive!
Avree Kelly Clark
August 17, 2026
WOW!!!
I’m at a loss of words. Truly.
I really want to desperately put into the right words what my mind went through in this reading experience. The roller coaster of emotions alone was intense.
I’ll do my best here. Bear with me.
I don’t want to spoil anything important.
It’s best to read it with fresh eyes.
I’m sure everyone’s heard of H.H. Holmes at some point in their lives, but never really got into the nitty gritty. Well this book gets into it. It’s rarely that we read anything so thoroughly put together with the RIGHT information. This is it!!! It’s as if Clark was there every step of the way. As if she saw every scene in every location play out.
She’s a MASTERMIND of storytelling.
Her little details here and there.
She allows you to play detective along with her. Letting you come to your conclusions before you get the answers.
I’ve read this book twice now. Once in an earlier draft, and then again published.
It just got better the 2nd time around and I couldn’t put it down! My brain already knew the ending but my heart was still battling the war within these pages.
I love Clark’s first book Malice Aforethought. It has a soft spot in my heart forever and ever.
But this.. THIS! Is a game changer!
She has put herself on another level.
INCREDIBLE!!!
I’m at a loss of words. Truly.
I really want to desperately put into the right words what my mind went through in this reading experience. The roller coaster of emotions alone was intense.
I’ll do my best here. Bear with me.
I don’t want to spoil anything important.
It’s best to read it with fresh eyes.
I’m sure everyone’s heard of H.H. Holmes at some point in their lives, but never really got into the nitty gritty. Well this book gets into it. It’s rarely that we read anything so thoroughly put together with the RIGHT information. This is it!!! It’s as if Clark was there every step of the way. As if she saw every scene in every location play out.
She’s a MASTERMIND of storytelling.
Her little details here and there.
She allows you to play detective along with her. Letting you come to your conclusions before you get the answers.
I’ve read this book twice now. Once in an earlier draft, and then again published.
It just got better the 2nd time around and I couldn’t put it down! My brain already knew the ending but my heart was still battling the war within these pages.
I love Clark’s first book Malice Aforethought. It has a soft spot in my heart forever and ever.
But this.. THIS! Is a game changer!
She has put herself on another level.
INCREDIBLE!!!
Review of advance copy
the author's,Avree Kelly Clark, purpose in writing this story, "All Manner of Evil." was to demystify the myth of the super villian. She wanted to reveal to her readers the true human cost of the consequences of America's first serial killer. The author contended the news coverage of a serial killer was sensationalized to the point of forgetting who the victim's were and the psychological effects on their loved ones. Even though the killer had a voice, the victims lost theirs throughout the coverage. Besides bringing to light the victims' voices, she wanted to honor the relentless and exhausting casework of Det. Geyer. Unfortunately, in the end, his own health was sacrificed to bring the killer to justice.
Her central argument was the reality of H.H. Holmes, the serial killer, was more engaging than the myth. The myth was how there was a massive nameless body count which reduced the historical event to a grotesque horror but untrue in every way. The truth was there were nine victims which centered on the Pitezel family. She brought genuine emotional investment to the story. She transformed the case from the sensational writing of yellow journalism into a deeply moving, suspenseful story about survival,betrayal, and ultimate justice. The true story was more intriguing and horrifying than what was reported in the news. The history of the case presented a masterful picture of human psychology, historical gist, and investigative suspense.
The plot of the story was a cross country psychological nightmare. The focus of the story was the final year of Holmes' killing spree. The story tracked his flight across North America and his attempt to elude capture. The first act was the fraud and his flight which occurred in 1884. The second act was a continent spanning manhunt for Holmes in 1895. The third act was the discovery of the bodies and his being brought to justice. The moral of the story was true evil does not that true evil does not always wear a montrous mask. Evil wore a mask that was charming and a full smile. It was defeated by a required relentlessness to bring forth justice and truth.
The story deserves a five star rating. This is true because the story is grounded, intellectually provoking, and a gripping historical thriller. If you are irritated with sensational Hollywood tropes, this is the book for you. The author offers a fresh experience for true crime, history, and mystery enthusiasts. The story does not glorify the serial killer a so called genius but focuses on the reality of the brutalness of his crime. The story becomes an intense 19th century police procedural indefatigably tracks a cross continent manhunt. The author ensures the names and memories of his victims are memorialized for posterity. Enjoy!
Her central argument was the reality of H.H. Holmes, the serial killer, was more engaging than the myth. The myth was how there was a massive nameless body count which reduced the historical event to a grotesque horror but untrue in every way. The truth was there were nine victims which centered on the Pitezel family. She brought genuine emotional investment to the story. She transformed the case from the sensational writing of yellow journalism into a deeply moving, suspenseful story about survival,betrayal, and ultimate justice. The true story was more intriguing and horrifying than what was reported in the news. The history of the case presented a masterful picture of human psychology, historical gist, and investigative suspense.
The plot of the story was a cross country psychological nightmare. The focus of the story was the final year of Holmes' killing spree. The story tracked his flight across North America and his attempt to elude capture. The first act was the fraud and his flight which occurred in 1884. The second act was a continent spanning manhunt for Holmes in 1895. The third act was the discovery of the bodies and his being brought to justice. The moral of the story was true evil does not that true evil does not always wear a montrous mask. Evil wore a mask that was charming and a full smile. It was defeated by a required relentlessness to bring forth justice and truth.
The story deserves a five star rating. This is true because the story is grounded, intellectually provoking, and a gripping historical thriller. If you are irritated with sensational Hollywood tropes, this is the book for you. The author offers a fresh experience for true crime, history, and mystery enthusiasts. The story does not glorify the serial killer a so called genius but focuses on the reality of the brutalness of his crime. The story becomes an intense 19th century police procedural indefatigably tracks a cross continent manhunt. The author ensures the names and memories of his victims are memorialized for posterity. Enjoy!
August 10, 2026
There are books you read because you’re curious.
Then there are books that stay with you long after you’ve turned the final page.
All Manner of Evil is one of those books.
From the moment I opened this book, I was captivated—not because of H.H. Holmes, but because of the people whose lives were forever changed by him. Avree Kelly Clark has accomplished something that is incredibly difficult in the true crime genre. She refuses to let a killer become the center of the story. Instead, she restores the humanity of the victims, reminding readers that they were daughters, sons, sisters, brothers, friends, and people with dreams, families, and futures.
The amount of research behind this book is extraordinary. Every chapter reflects years of dedication, careful investigation, and an obvious commitment to historical accuracy. You can feel the respect Avree has for the people whose stories she tells, and that respect is woven into every page.
What moved me most was that this book never feels like it is exploiting tragedy. Instead, it feels like an act of remembrance.
At times, I found myself wondering if these forgotten souls had finally found someone willing to listen. It almost feels as though the victims themselves reached through history, entrusting Avree to tell the stories that had been overshadowed for far too long. Their voices, nearly lost to time, are heard once again.
One story that will remain with me forever is Josie’s. Knowing that readers have returned to her resting place to leave flowers and letters after reading this book speaks volumes about the power of Avree’s writing. Few authors create that kind of lasting impact. She doesn’t simply educate her readers—she inspires them to remember.
Her writing is a reflection of what historical storytelling should be: compassionate, honest, meticulously researched, and deeply respectful. Rather than sensationalizing evil, she reminds us that history belongs just as much to those who suffered as it does to those who committed the crimes.
This isn’t simply another true crime book.
It’s an opportunity to remember people whose names deserved far more than a footnote in history.
If you’re looking for sensationalism, this isn’t that book.
If you’re looking for truth, compassion, remarkable research, and a story that honors the victims above all else, I cannot recommend All Manner of Evil enough.
Thank you, Avree Kelly Clark, for giving these forgotten voices the dignity they always deserved.
Reading this book reminded me that history isn’t just about the people who committed evil. It’s also about our responsibility to remember those who endured it.
Then there are books that stay with you long after you’ve turned the final page.
All Manner of Evil is one of those books.
From the moment I opened this book, I was captivated—not because of H.H. Holmes, but because of the people whose lives were forever changed by him. Avree Kelly Clark has accomplished something that is incredibly difficult in the true crime genre. She refuses to let a killer become the center of the story. Instead, she restores the humanity of the victims, reminding readers that they were daughters, sons, sisters, brothers, friends, and people with dreams, families, and futures.
The amount of research behind this book is extraordinary. Every chapter reflects years of dedication, careful investigation, and an obvious commitment to historical accuracy. You can feel the respect Avree has for the people whose stories she tells, and that respect is woven into every page.
What moved me most was that this book never feels like it is exploiting tragedy. Instead, it feels like an act of remembrance.
At times, I found myself wondering if these forgotten souls had finally found someone willing to listen. It almost feels as though the victims themselves reached through history, entrusting Avree to tell the stories that had been overshadowed for far too long. Their voices, nearly lost to time, are heard once again.
One story that will remain with me forever is Josie’s. Knowing that readers have returned to her resting place to leave flowers and letters after reading this book speaks volumes about the power of Avree’s writing. Few authors create that kind of lasting impact. She doesn’t simply educate her readers—she inspires them to remember.
Her writing is a reflection of what historical storytelling should be: compassionate, honest, meticulously researched, and deeply respectful. Rather than sensationalizing evil, she reminds us that history belongs just as much to those who suffered as it does to those who committed the crimes.
This isn’t simply another true crime book.
It’s an opportunity to remember people whose names deserved far more than a footnote in history.
If you’re looking for sensationalism, this isn’t that book.
If you’re looking for truth, compassion, remarkable research, and a story that honors the victims above all else, I cannot recommend All Manner of Evil enough.
Thank you, Avree Kelly Clark, for giving these forgotten voices the dignity they always deserved.
Reading this book reminded me that history isn’t just about the people who committed evil. It’s also about our responsibility to remember those who endured it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
My journey with Avree Kelly Clark's work begins here, marking a new chapter in my exploration of true crime. As someone deeply intrigued by the minds of serial killers, I've long been familiar with H.H. Holmes. Clark's "All Manner of Evil" speaks to a deeper understanding I seek—one that unravels the myth of the supervillain and confronts the human toll behind America's first serial killer. This encounter prompts me to reflect on my own quest for insight and growth, aspiring to see beyond the sensational and towards a more profound comprehension of human nature.
Reflecting on the portrayal of serial killers in media, I’ve realized how often the true essence of their stories becomes overshadowed by sensationalism. The victims, whose identities and experiences should be at the forefront, lose their voice amidst the noise, leaving their families to endure a silent psychological burden. In my journey towards understanding these narratives, I’ve come to appreciate "All Manner of Evil" by Clark, which honors the victims and the relentless efforts of law enforcement. This genuine account, free from the fabrications I’ve grown weary of in various media, offers an intellectually stimulating and gripping historical thriller.
I aspire to consume narratives that are grounded and enlightening, and this book fulfills that desire, providing a refreshing perspective for those of us seeking more than the glorification of so-called criminal geniuses. It immerses us in the harsh truth of the crimes through an intense 19th-century police procedural that meticulously tracks a cross-continental manhunt. Clark's dedication to preserving the victims’ names and memories resonates deeply with me, serving as a key component in my quest for authenticity.
I received a complimentary ARC and, with newfound eagerness, look forward to exploring more of Clark’s works, striving to enrich my understanding of these complex narratives.
Reflecting on the portrayal of serial killers in media, I’ve realized how often the true essence of their stories becomes overshadowed by sensationalism. The victims, whose identities and experiences should be at the forefront, lose their voice amidst the noise, leaving their families to endure a silent psychological burden. In my journey towards understanding these narratives, I’ve come to appreciate "All Manner of Evil" by Clark, which honors the victims and the relentless efforts of law enforcement. This genuine account, free from the fabrications I’ve grown weary of in various media, offers an intellectually stimulating and gripping historical thriller.
I aspire to consume narratives that are grounded and enlightening, and this book fulfills that desire, providing a refreshing perspective for those of us seeking more than the glorification of so-called criminal geniuses. It immerses us in the harsh truth of the crimes through an intense 19th-century police procedural that meticulously tracks a cross-continental manhunt. Clark's dedication to preserving the victims’ names and memories resonates deeply with me, serving as a key component in my quest for authenticity.
I received a complimentary ARC and, with newfound eagerness, look forward to exploring more of Clark’s works, striving to enrich my understanding of these complex narratives.
August 15, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
All Manner of Evil by Avree Kelly Clark was an incredibly powerful read. The research is phenomenal, and even though I was already familiar with the story of H. H. Holmes, I learned so much that I didn’t know.
But what stayed with me most were the victims. Clark gives them a humanity that is so often lost in stories about notorious killers. They weren’t just names, statistics, or people who happened to cross paths with a monster. They had families, hopes, dreams, relationships, and entire lives ahead of them. I found myself genuinely grieving for people I had never known and thinking about how much was stolen from them. Their stories made the book heartbreaking in a way I wasn’t expecting.
And Holmes? I absolutely loathed him. Avree does an incredible job developing him as a character without allowing his notoriety to overshadow the people he harmed. The more I learned, the more disturbing his actions became.
This book reminded me that true crime should never be just about the killer. The victims deserve to be remembered too, and Clark does that beautifully.
Dark, fascinating, meticulously researched, and deeply emotional. I finished this book with a much greater understanding of the Holmes story, but more importantly, with a renewed sense of compassion for the people whose lives were forever changed by it. Absolutely unforgettable. Thank you to booksirens for a free arc copy in exchange for an honest review.
All Manner of Evil by Avree Kelly Clark was an incredibly powerful read. The research is phenomenal, and even though I was already familiar with the story of H. H. Holmes, I learned so much that I didn’t know.
But what stayed with me most were the victims. Clark gives them a humanity that is so often lost in stories about notorious killers. They weren’t just names, statistics, or people who happened to cross paths with a monster. They had families, hopes, dreams, relationships, and entire lives ahead of them. I found myself genuinely grieving for people I had never known and thinking about how much was stolen from them. Their stories made the book heartbreaking in a way I wasn’t expecting.
And Holmes? I absolutely loathed him. Avree does an incredible job developing him as a character without allowing his notoriety to overshadow the people he harmed. The more I learned, the more disturbing his actions became.
This book reminded me that true crime should never be just about the killer. The victims deserve to be remembered too, and Clark does that beautifully.
Dark, fascinating, meticulously researched, and deeply emotional. I finished this book with a much greater understanding of the Holmes story, but more importantly, with a renewed sense of compassion for the people whose lives were forever changed by it. Absolutely unforgettable. Thank you to booksirens for a free arc copy in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
An emotional roller coaster from start to finish!! The author brilliantly projects so many emotions upon the reader. From doom and gloom, to excitement, to sadness, to satisfaction in telling, what up in till now has been the untold story of the demise of one of America’s worst serial killers.
The dialogue flows nicely and the story is kept wonderfully on track. The pace is brisk, never straying off. Excitement and intensity build as you become immersed in the spirit of this incredible true crime story of how police and others refused to stop in their pursuit of justice.
Avree does not glamorize or delve into the specifics of the crimes committed by HH Holmes but rather pays tribute to the people who stopped him. In the end one is left to wonder how many more victims there would have been at the hand of this madman if not for the heroic efforts of the main characters.
Avree’s research and determination to accurately portray the true facts of the crimes she writes about are what so impresses me about her books. Her efforts here are fabulous!
I so enjoyed Avree’s first book “Malice Aforethought” that I requested an advanced copy so that I could provide an honest review.
The dialogue flows nicely and the story is kept wonderfully on track. The pace is brisk, never straying off. Excitement and intensity build as you become immersed in the spirit of this incredible true crime story of how police and others refused to stop in their pursuit of justice.
Avree does not glamorize or delve into the specifics of the crimes committed by HH Holmes but rather pays tribute to the people who stopped him. In the end one is left to wonder how many more victims there would have been at the hand of this madman if not for the heroic efforts of the main characters.
Avree’s research and determination to accurately portray the true facts of the crimes she writes about are what so impresses me about her books. Her efforts here are fabulous!
I so enjoyed Avree’s first book “Malice Aforethought” that I requested an advanced copy so that I could provide an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
I am an ARC reader for Book Sirens and this is my honest opinion. This a very long book - but it is an incredible story. I had read, in a fiction book about the Chicago World's fair in 1893 and the goings on in the mysterious building called the Castle nearby. This peaked my interest in this book. It is a horror story in fact, but I was fascinated, in a way by the deeds of the most prolific serial killer up till that time. The writing is paced in such a way that it is difficult to put down. The dogged investigation by the detective who took on the task of finding three children during the long hot summer of 1894 was remarkable. What the detectives found inside the Castle reads like a true house of horrors.. The author included actual letters written and kept, illustrations drawn and records kept. There is an extensive bibliography giving every source the author used plus the generations who survived in spite of attempts by this man to wipe out an entire family. For anyone interested in true crime, this book really is a must read.
August 23, 2026
Avree Kelly Clark has masterfully transported her readers to a different time and place while unearthing facts and secrets (some I hadn’t known) about the man we know as H. H. Holmes.
Undoubtedly, he was a dastardly monster, but while I found myself appalled by his crimes; Clark’s writing always endears me to the victims of these heinous schemes.
Clark has created a book that weaves historical accuracy and real testimony with hauntingly, immersive settings, characters you’d like to have a coffee with, and darling moments that leave your heart squeezed.
If you read closely, she even added a little Easter egg from her last novel, Malice Aforethought!
While I did receive a free, advanced copy for my e-reader, as soon as the book was formally released, I purchased 2 paperback copies.
Undoubtedly, he was a dastardly monster, but while I found myself appalled by his crimes; Clark’s writing always endears me to the victims of these heinous schemes.
Clark has created a book that weaves historical accuracy and real testimony with hauntingly, immersive settings, characters you’d like to have a coffee with, and darling moments that leave your heart squeezed.
If you read closely, she even added a little Easter egg from her last novel, Malice Aforethought!
While I did receive a free, advanced copy for my e-reader, as soon as the book was formally released, I purchased 2 paperback copies.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was captivated from the very first chapter. I started reading All Manner of Evil knowing absolutely nothing about this case, which made it even more fascinating.
Avree Kelly Clark tells the story in such a compelling way that it feels as though you personally know the people whose lives were forever changed by this evil man. Her writing doesn’t just recount the facts—it brings the victims and their families to life, making you feel their fear, heartbreak, and loss. I found myself emotionally invested in their stories and shocked by how much H.H. Holmes was able to get away with.
Avree Kelly Clark tells the story in such a compelling way that it feels as though you personally know the people whose lives were forever changed by this evil man. Her writing doesn’t just recount the facts—it brings the victims and their families to life, making you feel their fear, heartbreak, and loss. I found myself emotionally invested in their stories and shocked by how much H.H. Holmes was able to get away with.
August 25, 2026
This was a Goodreads Giveaway Win - Thank You!'
I was unaware of H.H. Holmes prior to reading this book; what a unbelievable character. I am in awe of the author: the amount of research she did in order to write this book; her skill in taking all that information and putting it into this amazing story.
Even though I found this to be slow reading at first, I did reach a point where I became completely engrossed to the point I couldn't put it down.
Well done! Great Read!!
I was unaware of H.H. Holmes prior to reading this book; what a unbelievable character. I am in awe of the author: the amount of research she did in order to write this book; her skill in taking all that information and putting it into this amazing story.
Even though I found this to be slow reading at first, I did reach a point where I became completely engrossed to the point I couldn't put it down.
Well done! Great Read!!
September 3, 2026
This was a Goodreads giveaway winner. Interesting story.
Review of advance copy received from Storygraph
In the new book “All Manor of Evil The Unmasking of H.H. Holmes, Avree leads the reader into the dark world of a pharmacy doctor turned villain who targets business partners, families & children (in the wake from where he travels), who are added to a list of missing victims that Holmes hides, murders in his Chicago apartment bldg. that becomes known as the “murder hotel”.
Avree with her depth, detail of detective discoveries “a-huh” moments connecting evidence, motive, theory, sets the table for the mystery reader to put the puzzle pieces of guilt, suspense & murder Into play!
As readers discovered in her first history-researched murder mystery “ Malice Aforethought” , Avree spares no attention to detail in delivering criminal detail, detective’s timeline diary and the empathetic side of families torment, grief for lost family members who were victims of these scourges of society.
Avree Kelly Clark’s new book “All Manor of Evil The Unmasking of H.H. Holmes” comes out on August 4th. There’s still some great weeks of Summer reading left to enjoy this account of crimes that upstaged the Chicago World’s Fair in the summer of 1894!
5 star storytelling suspense!
Thank you to BookSirens and the author for the opportunity to read an early copy!
Avree with her depth, detail of detective discoveries “a-huh” moments connecting evidence, motive, theory, sets the table for the mystery reader to put the puzzle pieces of guilt, suspense & murder Into play!
As readers discovered in her first history-researched murder mystery “ Malice Aforethought” , Avree spares no attention to detail in delivering criminal detail, detective’s timeline diary and the empathetic side of families torment, grief for lost family members who were victims of these scourges of society.
Avree Kelly Clark’s new book “All Manor of Evil The Unmasking of H.H. Holmes” comes out on August 4th. There’s still some great weeks of Summer reading left to enjoy this account of crimes that upstaged the Chicago World’s Fair in the summer of 1894!
5 star storytelling suspense!
Thank you to BookSirens and the author for the opportunity to read an early copy!
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