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Homicide True Crime Cases #1
Robert Black: The True Story of a Child Rapist and Serial Killer
This book contains photos and graphic statements that some may find very disturbing
Given up for adoption by his mother at only a few weeks old, Robert Black is placed with physically abusive foster parents setting the tone for who, and what, he'd become- a pedophile and serial killer. Starting at the age of five, he recalls being sexually curious and began placing items in his anus at the age of eight. He'd sexually assault hundreds of little girls before committing his first murder. Sadly, as law enforcement stumbled along with no leads or evidence, Robert Black would strike repeatedly destroying families and preying on innocent little girls in the United Kingdom.
Chris Swinney is the bestselling true crime author of:
* "Robert Pickton: The Pig Farmer Killer"
* "The Killer Handyman: The True Story of William Patrick Fyfe."
He is also the author of the action/thriller "Bill Dix Detective Series"
Book 1 - Gray Ghost
Book 2 - The Cartel Enforcers
Book 3 - Sin City Assassin
Swinney is an active Police Officer / Homicide Detective in the Oakland, CA area. He donates most of his royalties to various organizations such as:
Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF), Cancer research, and PTSD/Military support groups. The proceeds from The Cartel Enforcers go to Koti Fakava's family who passed away leaving his wife and five children.
Given up for adoption by his mother at only a few weeks old, Robert Black is placed with physically abusive foster parents setting the tone for who, and what, he'd become- a pedophile and serial killer. Starting at the age of five, he recalls being sexually curious and began placing items in his anus at the age of eight. He'd sexually assault hundreds of little girls before committing his first murder. Sadly, as law enforcement stumbled along with no leads or evidence, Robert Black would strike repeatedly destroying families and preying on innocent little girls in the United Kingdom.
Chris Swinney is the bestselling true crime author of:
* "Robert Pickton: The Pig Farmer Killer"
* "The Killer Handyman: The True Story of William Patrick Fyfe."
He is also the author of the action/thriller "Bill Dix Detective Series"
Book 1 - Gray Ghost
Book 2 - The Cartel Enforcers
Book 3 - Sin City Assassin
Swinney is an active Police Officer / Homicide Detective in the Oakland, CA area. He donates most of his royalties to various organizations such as:
Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF), Cancer research, and PTSD/Military support groups. The proceeds from The Cartel Enforcers go to Koti Fakava's family who passed away leaving his wife and five children.
137 pages, Paperback
First published October 30, 2015
167 people are currently reading
652 people want to read
About the author
C.L. Swinney
20 books175 followersC. L. Swinney is the author of eleven international best-selling true crime books and a best-selling Crime Fiction series.
Chris consulted for a mini-series in Hollywood, has been interviewed several times for television and radio programs, and several of his books have been considered for television and film rights.
He donates proceeds from book sales to Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF), Cancer research, PTSD/Military support groups, StopHungerNow.Org, and victims of violent crimes.
Find him at the following locations:
Email: theclswinney@yahoo.com
TWITTER: @clswinney
FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/clswinney
Chris consulted for a mini-series in Hollywood, has been interviewed several times for television and radio programs, and several of his books have been considered for television and film rights.
He donates proceeds from book sales to Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF), Cancer research, PTSD/Military support groups, StopHungerNow.Org, and victims of violent crimes.
Find him at the following locations:
Email: theclswinney@yahoo.com
TWITTER: @clswinney
FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/clswinney
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
February 16, 2017
First of all thank you to the author for giving me this book on my Kindle,I remember the murder of Caroline Hogg in Portobello not far where I live,this book gave a good insight of Robert blacks life,and how he got away with abuse,rape and murder for a long time and how the police new all the murders we're connected but trying to prove it.Its a hard story to read,but I always wander want goes on in a mind of a serial killer to feel nothing no feelings for the victims or there family.no remorse in what they done.and feel for the families who can't rest till they find out who killed there loved ones.some will never find out.And that is really the sad part.
August 10, 2016
I had no idea the book was so short when I bought it and I had it read in less than an hour. The details of Black's depravity are a fascinating read but there is not enough depth to the book especially the unsolved murders that Black was linked to.
The scary thing about Robert Black for me is that he is known to have been in the area where two girls vanished back around 1982 very close to where I live. The thought that I could have been passed by this evil man in his van completely freaks me out. One of my neighbours knew one of the girls who vanished which is why I've always been interested in his crimes.
The evil scumbag died in January 2016 and may he rot in hell.
The scary thing about Robert Black for me is that he is known to have been in the area where two girls vanished back around 1982 very close to where I live. The thought that I could have been passed by this evil man in his van completely freaks me out. One of my neighbours knew one of the girls who vanished which is why I've always been interested in his crimes.
The evil scumbag died in January 2016 and may he rot in hell.
January 15, 2016
An interesting read
Very good read but I'm am sure he was implicated in more murders obviously there wasn't enough evidence for it to be concrete enough for this book but still a very interesting insight into the man and his crimes
Very good read but I'm am sure he was implicated in more murders obviously there wasn't enough evidence for it to be concrete enough for this book but still a very interesting insight into the man and his crimes
December 2, 2015
Another GREAT READ!!
Author C.L Swinney did a great job in telling the story of Robert Black. He covered Blacks life from birth through his convictions for the murders of several young girls. The book was factual without getting bogged down in the legal detail of the trials like some books do, making it easy to read in that sense. However, reading what Robert Black did to his young victims was not so easy!!
Author C.L Swinney did a great job in telling the story of Robert Black. He covered Blacks life from birth through his convictions for the murders of several young girls. The book was factual without getting bogged down in the legal detail of the trials like some books do, making it easy to read in that sense. However, reading what Robert Black did to his young victims was not so easy!!
November 26, 2016
This book is an excellent read!! If you love true crime than this is a book for you!!! I love how it starts out with the childhood history of Robert. He seemed very evil from a very young age. Are these kinds of men born like this or do the (horrible) circumstances of their life make them this way? Robert is a very wicked and sick man and I hope he never gets out of prison for the sake of other young girls.
November 5, 2015
This was a very short and fast account of a child rapist and serial killer who should never have been allowed to roam the streets. There were so many warning signs and arrests that there really is no excuse for what happened.
It is well written but I wish that there had been a bit more background on the victims, the time period and more detail on the culprit.
It is well written but I wish that there had been a bit more background on the victims, the time period and more detail on the culprit.
February 4, 2016
Fell short
Quick read. Expected more. Such sad stories and I feel so deeply for these families. I feel like the beginning set you up for real answers to this demented mind and it fell short. Kept waiting for the part where police received information from the killer only to find out not only do we not get answers but he was found guilty on circumstantial evidence. Disappointed.
Quick read. Expected more. Such sad stories and I feel so deeply for these families. I feel like the beginning set you up for real answers to this demented mind and it fell short. Kept waiting for the part where police received information from the killer only to find out not only do we not get answers but he was found guilty on circumstantial evidence. Disappointed.
November 14, 2015
Interesting story , written poorly
The author's poor writing, grammar, and storytelling ability detract from this interesting subject. The sentence structures are in need of refinement.
The author's poor writing, grammar, and storytelling ability detract from this interesting subject. The sentence structures are in need of refinement.
January 6, 2016
WOW!! Great Book!
Can't say I have ever read anything about Robert Black! It is very well written and detailed! I like details they help a lot with understanding how people become serial killers! Another, must have for any True Crime library!
Can't say I have ever read anything about Robert Black! It is very well written and detailed! I like details they help a lot with understanding how people become serial killers! Another, must have for any True Crime library!
February 26, 2016
True murder
Short concise book about Robert Black. It took place in England by this book was better written than a lot of books by English authors that I have read recently have been written.
Short concise book about Robert Black. It took place in England by this book was better written than a lot of books by English authors that I have read recently have been written.
December 29, 2015
Well written
I gave it three stars cause he made excuses for Roberts deeds. I give no excuse for murdering little children.
I gave it three stars cause he made excuses for Roberts deeds. I give no excuse for murdering little children.
January 27, 2020
Really liking this author
Second book I've read by Swinney, books are not bogged down with repeated information, fast read and keeps you involved.
Second book I've read by Swinney, books are not bogged down with repeated information, fast read and keeps you involved.
February 8, 2020
Good book
This book goes into the mind of a child rapist and serial killer. Book was well written and easy to follow.
This book goes into the mind of a child rapist and serial killer. Book was well written and easy to follow.
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April 6, 2025Book Review: Homicide True Crime Cases #1: Robert Black: The True Story of a Child Rapist and Serial Killer
Author: C.L. Swinney
Publication Date: October 30, 2015
Introduction
C.L. Swinney’s Homicide True Crime Cases #1: Robert Black: The True Story of a Child Rapist and Serial Killer delves into the chilling narrative of Robert Black, a serial killer whose heinous crimes captured the attention of law enforcement and the public alike. Swinney, known for his gripping storytelling in the true crime genre, presents a meticulously researched account that examines the complexities of Black’s criminal behavior alongside the broader societal implications of such horrific acts.
Content Overview
The book provides a comprehensive exploration of Black’s life, tracing his background and the factors that may have contributed to his violent tendencies. Swinney employs a detailed narrative style, making use of interviews, police reports, and court documents to construct a vivid picture of both the criminal and his victims. This method allows readers to grasp the duality of Black’s character—his façade as an ordinary individual juxtaposed against his monstrous acts.
Swinney also contextualizes Robert Black within the landscape of child abduction and murder, discussing the psychological profiles of serial killers and the societal failures that often accompany these cases. By situating Black’s story within this broader discussion, the author underscores the importance of vigilance and preventative measures in protecting vulnerable populations, especially children.
Strengths
One of the book’s key strengths is Swinney’s ability to engage readers through a narrative that balances factual reporting with an emotionally resonant storytelling style. His research is extensive, drawing from a variety of sources that lend credibility to the narrative. The incorporation of psychological analysis invites readers to consider not just the actions of perpetrators like Black but also the systemic issues that allow such crimes to occur.
Additionally, the book is well-structured, with clear divisions that guide the reader through Black’s life and criminal activities. Each chapter builds on the last, creating a sense of foreboding that culminates in the eventual unveiling of Black’s crimes.
Critique
While the book succeeds in many aspects, there are moments when the narrative may feel overwhelming due to the sheer volume of detail. Readers who are not accustomed to the true crime genre may find the depth of information daunting. A more streamlined approach in certain sections could enhance accessibility without sacrificing the richness of the content.
Moreover, the book could benefit from a more explicit exploration of the aftermath of Black’s crimes, particularly concerning the victims’ families and the community’s response. This would provide a more rounded perspective on the long-term impact of such tragedies.
Conclusion
C.L. Swinney’s Homicide True Crime Cases #1: Robert Black: The True Story of a Child Rapist and Serial Killer is a compelling addition to the true crime genre, offering a thorough and thought-provoking examination of one of the most notorious serial killers in history. Swinney’s dedication to detail and the human aspects of crime ensure that this book is not only informative but also a poignant reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by society. While there are areas for improvement, the work ultimately serves as both a cautionary tale and a call to action for greater awareness and reform in the systems that protect children from predatory individuals.
Overall, Swinney’s exploration of Robert Black is a significant contribution that will resonate with true crime enthusiasts and scholars interested in the psychological and societal dimensions of criminal behavior.
Author: C.L. Swinney
Publication Date: October 30, 2015
Introduction
C.L. Swinney’s Homicide True Crime Cases #1: Robert Black: The True Story of a Child Rapist and Serial Killer delves into the chilling narrative of Robert Black, a serial killer whose heinous crimes captured the attention of law enforcement and the public alike. Swinney, known for his gripping storytelling in the true crime genre, presents a meticulously researched account that examines the complexities of Black’s criminal behavior alongside the broader societal implications of such horrific acts.
Content Overview
The book provides a comprehensive exploration of Black’s life, tracing his background and the factors that may have contributed to his violent tendencies. Swinney employs a detailed narrative style, making use of interviews, police reports, and court documents to construct a vivid picture of both the criminal and his victims. This method allows readers to grasp the duality of Black’s character—his façade as an ordinary individual juxtaposed against his monstrous acts.
Swinney also contextualizes Robert Black within the landscape of child abduction and murder, discussing the psychological profiles of serial killers and the societal failures that often accompany these cases. By situating Black’s story within this broader discussion, the author underscores the importance of vigilance and preventative measures in protecting vulnerable populations, especially children.
Strengths
One of the book’s key strengths is Swinney’s ability to engage readers through a narrative that balances factual reporting with an emotionally resonant storytelling style. His research is extensive, drawing from a variety of sources that lend credibility to the narrative. The incorporation of psychological analysis invites readers to consider not just the actions of perpetrators like Black but also the systemic issues that allow such crimes to occur.
Additionally, the book is well-structured, with clear divisions that guide the reader through Black’s life and criminal activities. Each chapter builds on the last, creating a sense of foreboding that culminates in the eventual unveiling of Black’s crimes.
Critique
While the book succeeds in many aspects, there are moments when the narrative may feel overwhelming due to the sheer volume of detail. Readers who are not accustomed to the true crime genre may find the depth of information daunting. A more streamlined approach in certain sections could enhance accessibility without sacrificing the richness of the content.
Moreover, the book could benefit from a more explicit exploration of the aftermath of Black’s crimes, particularly concerning the victims’ families and the community’s response. This would provide a more rounded perspective on the long-term impact of such tragedies.
Conclusion
C.L. Swinney’s Homicide True Crime Cases #1: Robert Black: The True Story of a Child Rapist and Serial Killer is a compelling addition to the true crime genre, offering a thorough and thought-provoking examination of one of the most notorious serial killers in history. Swinney’s dedication to detail and the human aspects of crime ensure that this book is not only informative but also a poignant reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by society. While there are areas for improvement, the work ultimately serves as both a cautionary tale and a call to action for greater awareness and reform in the systems that protect children from predatory individuals.
Overall, Swinney’s exploration of Robert Black is a significant contribution that will resonate with true crime enthusiasts and scholars interested in the psychological and societal dimensions of criminal behavior.
August 27, 2025
he was a very evil man
July 8, 2016
I think this was amazingly written.
But it was disgusting to know it was a true story and not fiction.
It made me feel sorry for the families of the victim's in which Robert Black was found guilty in and of the victim's families who still have not found their beloved girls.
I really hope (since he is still alive) that he confesses to his doings, so that the families get some form of closure ...
However, overall the book is simply top quality written in my opinion as for me it's really hard to find books like these that are of my favourite genre.
But it was disgusting to know it was a true story and not fiction.
It made me feel sorry for the families of the victim's in which Robert Black was found guilty in and of the victim's families who still have not found their beloved girls.
I really hope (since he is still alive) that he confesses to his doings, so that the families get some form of closure ...
However, overall the book is simply top quality written in my opinion as for me it's really hard to find books like these that are of my favourite genre.
January 11, 2017
An authoritative non-fiction title detailing the depraved crimes of one of the UK's most prolific serial killers, a sexual offender targeting little girls.
Robert Black: The True Story of a Child Rapist and Serial Killer is written by a serving police officer and based on a true story.
Meticulously researched, very insightful and easy for a novice crime reader to follow.
This book sent shivers down my spine; with creepily realistic in-depth descriptions of the perpetrator, his background and some of the most horrifying crimes on earth.
Robert Black: The True Story of a Child Rapist and Serial Killer is written by a serving police officer and based on a true story.
Meticulously researched, very insightful and easy for a novice crime reader to follow.
This book sent shivers down my spine; with creepily realistic in-depth descriptions of the perpetrator, his background and some of the most horrifying crimes on earth.
February 14, 2016
Disappointing read
I downloaded this book after reading the reviews. It didn't take long to read and I felt like I was being rushed along. There is no great depth to the writing of this book and have to disagree with other reviewers that it is well written. There is a massive amount of information surrounding these crimes and I feel as though the author has written a quick summary of events. Sorry but not recommended.
I downloaded this book after reading the reviews. It didn't take long to read and I felt like I was being rushed along. There is no great depth to the writing of this book and have to disagree with other reviewers that it is well written. There is a massive amount of information surrounding these crimes and I feel as though the author has written a quick summary of events. Sorry but not recommended.
June 29, 2017
Informational and Interesting Read
I enjoyed this book. I had never heard of Robert Black. What horrible events took place at the hands of this man! He had a horrible childhood, which no doubt had an impact on his behaviors. He favored young girls. He carried on his acts of abuse for years before he was finally caught. The author has a writing style that is easy to follow--it flows well. The book has a few grammatical errors. I definitely recommend reading this book.
I enjoyed this book. I had never heard of Robert Black. What horrible events took place at the hands of this man! He had a horrible childhood, which no doubt had an impact on his behaviors. He favored young girls. He carried on his acts of abuse for years before he was finally caught. The author has a writing style that is easy to follow--it flows well. The book has a few grammatical errors. I definitely recommend reading this book.
November 8, 2015
Fascinating and sad.
I chose 5 stars because I'm happy with how hard all those officers, and locals, witnesses, and families worked. Such a staggering amount of information they gathered and they never gave up. My heart aches for those children and the families. I do hope that Robert comes out and admits to the murders. The families deserve more closure.
I chose 5 stars because I'm happy with how hard all those officers, and locals, witnesses, and families worked. Such a staggering amount of information they gathered and they never gave up. My heart aches for those children and the families. I do hope that Robert comes out and admits to the murders. The families deserve more closure.
December 19, 2015
Interesting
Interesting read good information and detective work the story reins true to similar demeanor of characteristics of individuals whom prey on the young...a sick minded individual that had a rough beginning starting out and just never able to get on the right track so sadden to read the tragic stories of the victims families
Interesting read good information and detective work the story reins true to similar demeanor of characteristics of individuals whom prey on the young...a sick minded individual that had a rough beginning starting out and just never able to get on the right track so sadden to read the tragic stories of the victims families
December 25, 2016
Informative
I thought this book was well written. The first pre-chapter, if you will, is a bit confusing, though after the first actual chapter it ironed out and became engrossing. I wish there was more info on his life growing up, though. I always seem to crave more knowledge about the earlier years of the perpetrators!
I thought this book was well written. The first pre-chapter, if you will, is a bit confusing, though after the first actual chapter it ironed out and became engrossing. I wish there was more info on his life growing up, though. I always seem to crave more knowledge about the earlier years of the perpetrators!
July 8, 2018
Informative
Only 4 stars this time as it seemed that towards the end, there were several repeated pages of information, just organized differently.
Robert Black is a disturbing individual who should have been held accountable the first time he attacked a child. Had that happened, there might have been less broken hearted families.
Only 4 stars this time as it seemed that towards the end, there were several repeated pages of information, just organized differently.
Robert Black is a disturbing individual who should have been held accountable the first time he attacked a child. Had that happened, there might have been less broken hearted families.
December 14, 2015
The true story of a child rapist and serial killer in England. A short, but chilling account of the children Robert Black killed and the hunt for the killer. Hard to even imagine that there are people like this.
January 21, 2016
This book gave a bit of insight into Robert Black, and some information about the crimes and victims. I would have been good to get more information about the investigation and the individuals involved. For a short book, it was very well done.
February 20, 2016
Great read. Robert Black was a sick person who loved to prey on young girls. This had to be hard for the author to write. At times it was bothersome for me to read but I think it was well written. My heart goes out to the families who were affected. I'm glad this sick pervert was put away
June 17, 2017
Very eye opening.
It was good book. I like the details of the killer how he lived and the horrible life he had . It's very heart breaking to know someone could do such things to children. I'm glad he is in jail.
It was good book. I like the details of the killer how he lived and the horrible life he had . It's very heart breaking to know someone could do such things to children. I'm glad he is in jail.
December 28, 2017
Good read little emotional infhological information on Robert blacki would recommend this to anyone who likes true sto rd ies.
Good read little emoti oval information on Robert BLACK, WOULD recommend this to any reader s
this genra, just right length
Good read little emoti oval information on Robert BLACK, WOULD recommend this to any reader s
this genra, just right length
November 5, 2015
Apparently if you want to get away with murder (or receive a ridiculously small sentence) go overseas.
November 17, 2015
Review to come...
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews