Holmes: A serial killer in his own words

by Herman Mudgett, H.H. Holmes, Matt Lake

H.H. Holmes did what few serial killers ever do. He published a series of autobiographical documents that revealed his sociopathic tendencies--and lied about his crimes. The infamous killer of the Chicago World's Fair published a memoir and a confession, both of which conceal more than they reveal of the truth. Then he gave a speech at his hanging that recanted everything. This series of documents, edited and explained by Matt Lake, author of Weird Pennsylvania, show the dark but charming side of a man who lured somewhere between 24 and 200 men, women, and children to their deaths.

Genres: True Crime

200 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 9, 2018

Reviews

[Gareth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a thrilling read. It took me a while to get into the flow of his speach pattern but once I had I couldn't put this book down. Reading his confessions and lies in his own words is an incredible insight into his psychological profile. I fully recommend this to anyone with an interest in either this specific case or a broader intrigue of serial killers.

[Hillary Caudill · Rating 4 out of 5]

I don’t even know how to rate this 😂 it’s a book written by a dead serial killer (possibly but not entirely proven) while he was waiting to be hanged. So 4 stars it is. If you enjoy this kind of history or the story of the killer who inspired the saw movies, it’s a great read. However, it’s written by an educated 1880’s man, so it can be difficult to follow.

[Rebecca · Rating 3 out of 5]

The majority of the book is surprisingly uninteresting, but it was chilling at the end to listen to him describe the murders he committed.