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Out of the Mouths of Serial Killers
WHY DO SERIAL KILLERS KILL?
OUT OF THE MOUTHS OF SERIAL KILLERS by author Mary Brett is as close as you will ever come to discovering the answer ... and in the killer's own words!
In this one-of-a-kind book, author Mary Brett corresponded with some of America's most evil convicted serial killers and asked just one question: WHY? Their return letters give an insightful look into the dark mind of each killer. The reader also will be able to scrutinize direct quotes, unedited, from interrogation statements, trial testimony, media interviews, and parole hearing inquests.
75 Serial Killers are included in the book, some only known to the unfortunate victims' family, friends, and community, while others are the most infamous in the annals of serial killers. All bios feature the crime, the capture, the victims, and background facts. Crime scene photos, some graphic, are featured.
OUT OF THE MOUTHS OF SERIAL KILLERS by author Mary Brett is as close as you will ever come to discovering the answer ... and in the killer's own words!
In this one-of-a-kind book, author Mary Brett corresponded with some of America's most evil convicted serial killers and asked just one question: WHY? Their return letters give an insightful look into the dark mind of each killer. The reader also will be able to scrutinize direct quotes, unedited, from interrogation statements, trial testimony, media interviews, and parole hearing inquests.
75 Serial Killers are included in the book, some only known to the unfortunate victims' family, friends, and community, while others are the most infamous in the annals of serial killers. All bios feature the crime, the capture, the victims, and background facts. Crime scene photos, some graphic, are featured.
376 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 19, 2021
60 people are currently reading
969 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
February 21, 2021
Disclaimer: I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
There are very few books you feel have duped you. This book is one of them. The USP of the book is "it writes what comes out of the mouth of the serial killer". However, disappointingly 80-90% of the killers didn't co-operate to the author's request. Surprisingly, one of the killer was very co operative and have actually provided the writer a 20 page thesis discussing why he did what he did. However, the author decides to not share it with us and gives us a very vague 2 line paragraph as his answer.
Moving on with the review, the chapters are short and crisp but lack personal warmth.
Since the chapters are short and the subject matter is interesting, you will sail through the chapters.
As the book progresses, we come across some killers who wanted to have further communication with the writer or who seemed to be irked by the author referring to them as killers.
But no proof was given by the author regarding how she circumvented the situation. This was something that irked me because I felt the author was not interested in getting the information.
The final point I want to pick up in this review is there is a chapter where the author gives a very strong opinion on death penalty. This is something I personally did not like. Mainly, because as an author who has undertaken a work which is based on neutrality to project the truth; such an opinionated chapter discredits her.
All in all, this book has disappointed me. It is a simple read and can be used as a coffee table book for someone who likes dark , morbid contents.
There are very few books you feel have duped you. This book is one of them. The USP of the book is "it writes what comes out of the mouth of the serial killer". However, disappointingly 80-90% of the killers didn't co-operate to the author's request. Surprisingly, one of the killer was very co operative and have actually provided the writer a 20 page thesis discussing why he did what he did. However, the author decides to not share it with us and gives us a very vague 2 line paragraph as his answer.
Moving on with the review, the chapters are short and crisp but lack personal warmth.
Since the chapters are short and the subject matter is interesting, you will sail through the chapters.
As the book progresses, we come across some killers who wanted to have further communication with the writer or who seemed to be irked by the author referring to them as killers.
But no proof was given by the author regarding how she circumvented the situation. This was something that irked me because I felt the author was not interested in getting the information.
The final point I want to pick up in this review is there is a chapter where the author gives a very strong opinion on death penalty. This is something I personally did not like. Mainly, because as an author who has undertaken a work which is based on neutrality to project the truth; such an opinionated chapter discredits her.
All in all, this book has disappointed me. It is a simple read and can be used as a coffee table book for someone who likes dark , morbid contents.
February 19, 2021
I received a free digital copy of this through booksirens in exchange for my unbiased review.
I don't know where to start, this just isn't a very good book. Poor writing and editing, authors own biases felt throughout and inconsistencies.
I guess let me start at content. The basis of this book was "WHY? Their return letters give an insightful look into the dark mind of each killer" and this was not accomplished. Each killer had a written summary of their crimes, some background, if they responded to the author's letter requesting the "Why they killed" and quotes from previous interviews, confessions and testimonies as well as other facts. Several of those summarized did not respond to Mary Brett's request and for those who did respond, they did not answer the question of why they killed. The book shouldn't be marketed in that way since it's entirely misleading.
It was a somewhat decent summary of many serial killers crimes but with the poor execution there are other books that would provide someone with the content they're looking for with better quality.
I found many spelling errors, typos, incorrect word choice and a few made up words. Some examples are simple like using the word "trail" in place of "trial", "occur" when "incur" should have been used or "S7- year-old" rather than 17, 27, 37 as I'm not sure how old the victim was that Mary was referring to. An incorrect age was used for one of the killers, their DOB and DOD were both written but the author stated they were 40 when they were 39. These sound like simple errors but it shows that there was little editing and proofreading since these were consistent throughout.
It was clear that the author also is biased toward some through their choice of wording. One that was most obvious was Mary saying "innocent victim" when speaking of most victims but in the event that a victim was a prostitute the word victim was never used. In the area that summarized Anthony Kirkland's victims is states "Two of Kirkland's victims were prostitutes and three were innocents..." This also falls under inconsistencies. Additional inconsistencies are providing a summarized list of a couple of the killers victims but not all others, recording their age at death for some but not for others, and when summarizing David Gore's background it was oddly stated "He was raised by both parents, neither of them addicted to alcohol or drugs". This was the only time this was stated about a killers parents despite other killers parent's also sharing this apparent oddity.
Overall I feel this was a poorly written book marketed under false pretenses. At times it felt sensationalized, judgmental and corny. I wouldn't recommend picking this up.
I don't know where to start, this just isn't a very good book. Poor writing and editing, authors own biases felt throughout and inconsistencies.
I guess let me start at content. The basis of this book was "WHY? Their return letters give an insightful look into the dark mind of each killer" and this was not accomplished. Each killer had a written summary of their crimes, some background, if they responded to the author's letter requesting the "Why they killed" and quotes from previous interviews, confessions and testimonies as well as other facts. Several of those summarized did not respond to Mary Brett's request and for those who did respond, they did not answer the question of why they killed. The book shouldn't be marketed in that way since it's entirely misleading.
It was a somewhat decent summary of many serial killers crimes but with the poor execution there are other books that would provide someone with the content they're looking for with better quality.
I found many spelling errors, typos, incorrect word choice and a few made up words. Some examples are simple like using the word "trail" in place of "trial", "occur" when "incur" should have been used or "S7- year-old" rather than 17, 27, 37 as I'm not sure how old the victim was that Mary was referring to. An incorrect age was used for one of the killers, their DOB and DOD were both written but the author stated they were 40 when they were 39. These sound like simple errors but it shows that there was little editing and proofreading since these were consistent throughout.
It was clear that the author also is biased toward some through their choice of wording. One that was most obvious was Mary saying "innocent victim" when speaking of most victims but in the event that a victim was a prostitute the word victim was never used. In the area that summarized Anthony Kirkland's victims is states "Two of Kirkland's victims were prostitutes and three were innocents..." This also falls under inconsistencies. Additional inconsistencies are providing a summarized list of a couple of the killers victims but not all others, recording their age at death for some but not for others, and when summarizing David Gore's background it was oddly stated "He was raised by both parents, neither of them addicted to alcohol or drugs". This was the only time this was stated about a killers parents despite other killers parent's also sharing this apparent oddity.
Overall I feel this was a poorly written book marketed under false pretenses. At times it felt sensationalized, judgmental and corny. I wouldn't recommend picking this up.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 3, 2021
Interesting facts on many different killers over the years all compiled into one book. Interesting, factual, kept my attention and gave me a look into the mind of some pretty disturbing individuals. Thank you to the author and publisher, I received an ARC and leave my own opinion.
January 3, 2023
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book left me hugely disappointed, seeing as it does not come close to delivering the promise made in the synopsis:
“Why do Serial Killers kill? Find out in the killer’s own words! Out of the Mouth of Serial Killers by author Mary Brett is as close as you will ever come to discovering the answer… and in the killer’s own words! […] it’s a one-of-a-kind book, author Mary Brett corresponded with some of America’s most evil convicted serial killers and asked just one question: WHY? Their return letters give an insightful look into the dark mind of each killer.”
I found this to be a disingenuous description, seeing as only twenty out of the seventy-five killers presented in the book replied to the author’s letter. Out of those twenty, three of the ones who got back to her claimed innocence (Charles Frederick Albright, Lorenzo Gilyard, and Paula Sims), and four claimed that they’d not be able to help/flat out refused to participate (Dean Carter, Bobby Joe Long, Jamie Sly, Chester Turner). Only one convict (Robert Bruce Spahalski) actually answered the question posed by Mary Brett: “why did you kill.” To sum up, out of the twenty responses, seven provided absolutely no insight on the reason(s) why those perpetrators committed their crimes and reveal very little (if anything) about their physique/personality.
The synopsis goes on to claim that “The reader also will be able to scrutinize direct quotes, unedited, frominterrogation statements, trial testimony, media interviews, and parole hearing inquests.” Not only that, but Brett also says that her book contains “An in-depth look into the reasons some of the most notorious serial killers killed through their own words.” It is ludicrous to believe that a book with 390 pages, of which the last 14% are merely bibliography, making the actual length be less than 350, could approach in depth the reasons of over 70 killers. That leaves less than five pages per convict to showcase their crimes, background, and the alleged “in-depth look into the reasons” of why they killed. I feel that it is important to make another remark, a lot of the convicts that feature in this book cannot be classified as a Serial Killer, whether because they killed less than three victims, the victims were not murdered in three separate instances with a cool-off period in between, or whose kills were clearly not in service of abnormal phycological gratification. Brett is even called out on this by one of the killers she contacted, Jeremy Sly, who said to the author that he could not be classified as a Serial Killer and was considered instead as a mass murderer.
Although that is the case, for the majority of the killers there are only three to four direct quotes, and they were usually a sentence or two that, with some killers having only one or two. More often than not, those excerpts had almost no substance and did not provide insight into anything that could be perceived as even remotely significant. There were eight exceptions to this, the direct quotes from David Berkowitz, William Bonin, Robert Hansen, Genene Jones, Edmund Kemper, Richard Ramirez, and Joe Ture did provide insight and were fascinating.
On top of all of this, Brett’s views are incredibly problematic: she uses the R slur several times throughout the book; refers to sex workers as prostitutes and does so in a very demeaning manner; defends the death penalty fervently but does not acknowledge the flaws of the justice system that has wrongfully condemned innocent people (especially BIPOC). It is especially baffling that she ignores that because in the book Brett features the case of Chester Turner, in which David Allan Jones was convicted of three of Turner’s murders and served over a decade in prison before being exonerated by DNA evidence. Had Jones been executed, as Brett wishes were the case for all murderers (except self-defense, etc.), they would have killed an innocent man. She also expresses her belief that not all victims were innocent:
“Most victims of serial killers have left themselves open to the possibility of extreme harm by the lifestyles they have chosen: drug sales or drug addiction, alcoholism, prostitution, hitchhiking, or homelessness. A minority of victims are innocents in the wrong place at the wrong time…”
To say that people CHOOSE to be homeless, drug addicts, or alcoholics is insane, cruel, and harmful, perpetuating stereotypes that contribute to the stigma surrounding those individuals. Furthermore, being a sex worker is a job like any other and not a “lifestyle,” they do not choose to “leave themselves open to the possibility of harm” more than people who work as plumbers, electricians, taxi drives, etc.
Overall, if this is your first true-crime book you might enjoy the read, otherwise, you’ll find it only contains shallow accounts of the murders and, most likely, will not learn anything new. Not only that, but Brett’s harmful views are so deeply ingrained in the book that it makes the reading unpleasant, I recommend picking other true crime books that are far more in-depth, feature better material, and do not victim blame.
Marina Garrido.
This book left me hugely disappointed, seeing as it does not come close to delivering the promise made in the synopsis:
“Why do Serial Killers kill? Find out in the killer’s own words! Out of the Mouth of Serial Killers by author Mary Brett is as close as you will ever come to discovering the answer… and in the killer’s own words! […] it’s a one-of-a-kind book, author Mary Brett corresponded with some of America’s most evil convicted serial killers and asked just one question: WHY? Their return letters give an insightful look into the dark mind of each killer.”
I found this to be a disingenuous description, seeing as only twenty out of the seventy-five killers presented in the book replied to the author’s letter. Out of those twenty, three of the ones who got back to her claimed innocence (Charles Frederick Albright, Lorenzo Gilyard, and Paula Sims), and four claimed that they’d not be able to help/flat out refused to participate (Dean Carter, Bobby Joe Long, Jamie Sly, Chester Turner). Only one convict (Robert Bruce Spahalski) actually answered the question posed by Mary Brett: “why did you kill.” To sum up, out of the twenty responses, seven provided absolutely no insight on the reason(s) why those perpetrators committed their crimes and reveal very little (if anything) about their physique/personality.
The synopsis goes on to claim that “The reader also will be able to scrutinize direct quotes, unedited, frominterrogation statements, trial testimony, media interviews, and parole hearing inquests.” Not only that, but Brett also says that her book contains “An in-depth look into the reasons some of the most notorious serial killers killed through their own words.” It is ludicrous to believe that a book with 390 pages, of which the last 14% are merely bibliography, making the actual length be less than 350, could approach in depth the reasons of over 70 killers. That leaves less than five pages per convict to showcase their crimes, background, and the alleged “in-depth look into the reasons” of why they killed. I feel that it is important to make another remark, a lot of the convicts that feature in this book cannot be classified as a Serial Killer, whether because they killed less than three victims, the victims were not murdered in three separate instances with a cool-off period in between, or whose kills were clearly not in service of abnormal phycological gratification. Brett is even called out on this by one of the killers she contacted, Jeremy Sly, who said to the author that he could not be classified as a Serial Killer and was considered instead as a mass murderer.
Although that is the case, for the majority of the killers there are only three to four direct quotes, and they were usually a sentence or two that, with some killers having only one or two. More often than not, those excerpts had almost no substance and did not provide insight into anything that could be perceived as even remotely significant. There were eight exceptions to this, the direct quotes from David Berkowitz, William Bonin, Robert Hansen, Genene Jones, Edmund Kemper, Richard Ramirez, and Joe Ture did provide insight and were fascinating.
On top of all of this, Brett’s views are incredibly problematic: she uses the R slur several times throughout the book; refers to sex workers as prostitutes and does so in a very demeaning manner; defends the death penalty fervently but does not acknowledge the flaws of the justice system that has wrongfully condemned innocent people (especially BIPOC). It is especially baffling that she ignores that because in the book Brett features the case of Chester Turner, in which David Allan Jones was convicted of three of Turner’s murders and served over a decade in prison before being exonerated by DNA evidence. Had Jones been executed, as Brett wishes were the case for all murderers (except self-defense, etc.), they would have killed an innocent man. She also expresses her belief that not all victims were innocent:
“Most victims of serial killers have left themselves open to the possibility of extreme harm by the lifestyles they have chosen: drug sales or drug addiction, alcoholism, prostitution, hitchhiking, or homelessness. A minority of victims are innocents in the wrong place at the wrong time…”
To say that people CHOOSE to be homeless, drug addicts, or alcoholics is insane, cruel, and harmful, perpetuating stereotypes that contribute to the stigma surrounding those individuals. Furthermore, being a sex worker is a job like any other and not a “lifestyle,” they do not choose to “leave themselves open to the possibility of harm” more than people who work as plumbers, electricians, taxi drives, etc.
Overall, if this is your first true-crime book you might enjoy the read, otherwise, you’ll find it only contains shallow accounts of the murders and, most likely, will not learn anything new. Not only that, but Brett’s harmful views are so deeply ingrained in the book that it makes the reading unpleasant, I recommend picking other true crime books that are far more in-depth, feature better material, and do not victim blame.
Marina Garrido.
November 27, 2021
3rd grade grammar
This is full of factual errors and misspellings, and is grammatically incorrect. I had to force myself to finish it and learned absolutely nothing.
This is full of factual errors and misspellings, and is grammatically incorrect. I had to force myself to finish it and learned absolutely nothing.
February 25, 2021
4 stars for this informative non fiction book of a true crime base.
Interesting to see how many killers were willing to respond to the author’s question on why they killed.
Most names are recognizable, having made connections through social media/ news over the years. Each of the serial killers are listed by name, age, time frame of their kills, their final charge and their sentencing.
The responses were actually, surprising, but not, surprising.
Makes for interesting reading for any fans of true crime and the daunting task of having to catalog all the information within these pages is impressive.
What was most interesting is that the general population believes these killers enjoyed their time in the limelight but this book proves otherwise.
Interesting to see how many killers were willing to respond to the author’s question on why they killed.
Most names are recognizable, having made connections through social media/ news over the years. Each of the serial killers are listed by name, age, time frame of their kills, their final charge and their sentencing.
The responses were actually, surprising, but not, surprising.
Makes for interesting reading for any fans of true crime and the daunting task of having to catalog all the information within these pages is impressive.
What was most interesting is that the general population believes these killers enjoyed their time in the limelight but this book proves otherwise.
February 11, 2021
Out of the Mouths of Serial Killers was a well done research paper. The anthology includes many famous serial killers as well as some that are new to me. In picking this book, I had thought it would have more conversations with the serial killers, that the author was able to actually speak to them through letters and get answers about the why. However, she actually only received letters from a few of them and they all declined to be a part of her book. The rest of the serial killers were just presented by research, information found in other books or information that was known for their cases. Nothing that was surprising or even actually shared directly with the author. The book was good but if you are looking for a book on actual conversations with serial killers, this is not it. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 27, 2021
This book has very quick basic descriptions of multiple crimes which I like but it goes into very little detail if at all. And also, not one killer actually answered her question which I found odd..
August 19, 2021
So, I received an ARC in return for an honest review. This is my first review of this kind... so...I hope I'm doing it right.
Although this book had a lot of very interesting information...I believe the premise of the book was misleading. There were only a handful of people who actually answered her letter... and most of the answers were... thank you for your interest... but no thanks.
With that being said, the book has a lot of information...ranging from the criminals background, the actual crimes, to quotes from the criminal during trials or depositions. Each section was three or four pages long and a quick easy read. The book was filled with fact after fact about serial killers and their crimes. It gave the reader a look into the history of the killer as well as reasons that the killer might have killed.
Overall, (if you get past all the serial killer parts) the book was knowledgeable and an interesting read.
Although this book had a lot of very interesting information...I believe the premise of the book was misleading. There were only a handful of people who actually answered her letter... and most of the answers were... thank you for your interest... but no thanks.
With that being said, the book has a lot of information...ranging from the criminals background, the actual crimes, to quotes from the criminal during trials or depositions. Each section was three or four pages long and a quick easy read. The book was filled with fact after fact about serial killers and their crimes. It gave the reader a look into the history of the killer as well as reasons that the killer might have killed.
Overall, (if you get past all the serial killer parts) the book was knowledgeable and an interesting read.
February 1, 2021
This book was such an eye opener for me, and I thoroughly enjoyed every chapter. It satisfied a curiosity I've had for so long, yet also made my curiosity grow.
Full review up on my blog http://www.thebookishwiccan.wordpress...
Also, shout out to Wild Blue Press for sending me a copy and including me as one of their reviewers.
10/10 would recommend to those enthralled with true crime.
Full review up on my blog http://www.thebookishwiccan.wordpress...
Also, shout out to Wild Blue Press for sending me a copy and including me as one of their reviewers.
10/10 would recommend to those enthralled with true crime.
March 15, 2021
The deranged murderers/&/or killers/serial that interested me the most are: Marybeth Roe Tinning; Aileen Carol "Lee" Wuornos, nee Pittman; Juan Vallejo Corona; Gerald Armond Gallego & Charlene Adell Gallego (née Williams); Genene Anne Jones; Patrick Wayne Kearney; Edmund Emil Kemper III; Herbert “Herb” William Mullin; Dorothea Helen Puente (née Gray); Ricardo “Richard” Leyva Muñoz Ramírez; Gary Leon Ridgway; Joel David Rifkin; William Lester Suff; Marybeth Roe Tinning; Aileen Carol "Lee" Wuornos, nee Pittman;
I do not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing free books from publishers & authors. Therefore, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one.
Warning: This book contains descriptive accounts of extremely graphic adult content, violence, murder, or expletive language &/or uncensored sexually explicit material (pedophile, rape, sodomy, necrophiliac, minor/adult verbal, psychological, emotional, physical & sexual abuse, prostitution, substance abuse, monetary gain) which is only suitable for mature readers. It may be offensive or have potential adverse psychological effects on the reader. If you are especially sensitive to this type of material, it is strongly advised not to read any further.
An awesome book cover, great font & writing style. 66 very professionally written serial killer (individual criminal short stories) book. They were quite easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Colored, & black/white photos, lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a huge description list of unique characters, settings, facts etc. to keep track of. They all could make another great movie, a classroom PP presentation, or better yet a paid-per-view mini-TV series or even a documentary (Crime Museum; True Crime; American Crime Story; Investigative Discovery. There is no doubt in my mind this is an extremely easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; WildBluePress.com; PDF book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
I do not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing free books from publishers & authors. Therefore, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one.
Warning: This book contains descriptive accounts of extremely graphic adult content, violence, murder, or expletive language &/or uncensored sexually explicit material (pedophile, rape, sodomy, necrophiliac, minor/adult verbal, psychological, emotional, physical & sexual abuse, prostitution, substance abuse, monetary gain) which is only suitable for mature readers. It may be offensive or have potential adverse psychological effects on the reader. If you are especially sensitive to this type of material, it is strongly advised not to read any further.
An awesome book cover, great font & writing style. 66 very professionally written serial killer (individual criminal short stories) book. They were quite easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Colored, & black/white photos, lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a huge description list of unique characters, settings, facts etc. to keep track of. They all could make another great movie, a classroom PP presentation, or better yet a paid-per-view mini-TV series or even a documentary (Crime Museum; True Crime; American Crime Story; Investigative Discovery. There is no doubt in my mind this is an extremely easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; WildBluePress.com; PDF book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
March 25, 2021
I’m not sure what it is about crime that recently has had me rethinking what I would have chosen as a career if I could start over.
No! Not being a criminal. I would love to have studied anything related to forensics. So I believe that thought, no doubt, drew me to Mary Brett’s book, Out of the Mouths of Serial Killers.
This is a concise, informational, true crime compilation of facts regarding 75 serial killers. When I started reading it immediately became aware to me I was looking at hours of investigative work.
Each of the people in the book had lots of details included in a very few pages. In some ways it gave off the vibes of being more of a reference book, or something to be read a little at a time. It felt a bit overwhelming to read page after page of information.
Brett listed what crime each person was in prison for, personal background, his/her unedited reply to the letter she wrote them (if in fact she got a reply) asking why they killed, and much more.
My Concerns
I think the title was slightly misleading, since I felt more prisoners would reply to Brett’s letter questioning why they killed. And those who did reply didn’t answer her question, though their replies were interesting.
Though I feel sure the author didn’t mean it the way it came out, I was confused and disturbed when I read, “Two of Kirkland’s victims were prostitutes and three were innocents at the wrong place at the wrong time.” I feel certain the prostitutes didn’t volunteer to be killed any more that the other three. They all seemed to be in the “wrong place at the wrong time.”
My Conclusion
This is definitely a book that any true crime reader will be happy to get their hands on. It’s concise, yet has lots of information. Each criminal’s background date of birth, what facility they are/were in, quotes from them during trial or depositions, etc. will appeal to many.
My thanks to iRead Book Tours and the author for a copy of this book and the ability to post a review reflecting my thoughts.
No! Not being a criminal. I would love to have studied anything related to forensics. So I believe that thought, no doubt, drew me to Mary Brett’s book, Out of the Mouths of Serial Killers.
This is a concise, informational, true crime compilation of facts regarding 75 serial killers. When I started reading it immediately became aware to me I was looking at hours of investigative work.
Each of the people in the book had lots of details included in a very few pages. In some ways it gave off the vibes of being more of a reference book, or something to be read a little at a time. It felt a bit overwhelming to read page after page of information.
Brett listed what crime each person was in prison for, personal background, his/her unedited reply to the letter she wrote them (if in fact she got a reply) asking why they killed, and much more.
My Concerns
I think the title was slightly misleading, since I felt more prisoners would reply to Brett’s letter questioning why they killed. And those who did reply didn’t answer her question, though their replies were interesting.
Though I feel sure the author didn’t mean it the way it came out, I was confused and disturbed when I read, “Two of Kirkland’s victims were prostitutes and three were innocents at the wrong place at the wrong time.” I feel certain the prostitutes didn’t volunteer to be killed any more that the other three. They all seemed to be in the “wrong place at the wrong time.”
My Conclusion
This is definitely a book that any true crime reader will be happy to get their hands on. It’s concise, yet has lots of information. Each criminal’s background date of birth, what facility they are/were in, quotes from them during trial or depositions, etc. will appeal to many.
My thanks to iRead Book Tours and the author for a copy of this book and the ability to post a review reflecting my thoughts.
March 30, 2021
Out of the Mouths of Serial Killers is a fascinating true crime book featuring well-known killers like Ted Bundy and Jeffrey Dahmer, and lesser-known killers like Anthony Kirkland and Keith Jesperson. Written in alphabetical order (based on last name), the book showcases details about each killer, their crime, their response (if one was given) to the letter asking why they killed, and other little tidbits. It's an intriguing book that I rather enjoyed.
I've always been a bit morbid, and as a teenager, I discovered true crime novels and became captivated by learning whatever I could about serial killers. I used to carry The A-Z Encyclopedia of Serial Killers around with me when I was in ninth grade (which clearly didn't help much with my already shy, anti-social ways lol), and even though I thought I outgrew my fascination with true crime, this book reminded me that my interest never actually went away. I just buried it deep down so I could try and be "normal" as an adult. To be fair, I had career goals as a teenager to become a criminal profiler or psychologist, so that's probably why. Whatever the reason, this book rekindled my obsession with true crime.
While a lot of the stuff found within the pages could be considered dark and triggering for some readers, I do think it will appeal to people who are curious or have always wanted to know or understand why people kill. And why most of the killers in this book are male, there are some females included because, let's be real, women do kill too. They're just not as prominent or well-known (unless you count Aileen Wuornos).
I will admit, I was a little disappointed that a lot of the killers never responded to the letters (the ones who are still alive, anyway, and received one), but there is a website listed in the back of the book that does include more in-depth letters and some more photos, so that's a plus.
Overall, I would have to say Out of the Mouths of Serial Killers is a book I found compelling and morbid. Fans of true crime will want to give this one a go.
4.5 stars from me.
I've always been a bit morbid, and as a teenager, I discovered true crime novels and became captivated by learning whatever I could about serial killers. I used to carry The A-Z Encyclopedia of Serial Killers around with me when I was in ninth grade (which clearly didn't help much with my already shy, anti-social ways lol), and even though I thought I outgrew my fascination with true crime, this book reminded me that my interest never actually went away. I just buried it deep down so I could try and be "normal" as an adult. To be fair, I had career goals as a teenager to become a criminal profiler or psychologist, so that's probably why. Whatever the reason, this book rekindled my obsession with true crime.
While a lot of the stuff found within the pages could be considered dark and triggering for some readers, I do think it will appeal to people who are curious or have always wanted to know or understand why people kill. And why most of the killers in this book are male, there are some females included because, let's be real, women do kill too. They're just not as prominent or well-known (unless you count Aileen Wuornos).
I will admit, I was a little disappointed that a lot of the killers never responded to the letters (the ones who are still alive, anyway, and received one), but there is a website listed in the back of the book that does include more in-depth letters and some more photos, so that's a plus.
Overall, I would have to say Out of the Mouths of Serial Killers is a book I found compelling and morbid. Fans of true crime will want to give this one a go.
4.5 stars from me.
June 2, 2021
This was an interesting book on how serial killers describe themselves, their crimes, and their motives. The author used a couple of different methods of getting this "testimony." She sent death row inmates a letter asking them to share their thoughts on why they did what they did as a way of explaining to the world who they are. The range of responses she got to this letter was interesting.
She also utilized statements made by serial killers in court transcripts and reported in the press or in correspondence, when they were already dead (for example, Ted Bundy).
I found the brief family history of each of these people interesting. What makes someone become a serial killer?
There are 2 things that caused me to rate the book with 3 stars as opposed to 5 stars. First is the fact that she leans heavily on the stories of sexual serial killers when in reality, most serial killers don't have a sexual aspect to their killing. So this seemed like sensationalism.
The bigger issue was that in several places in the book she differentiates between victims. There are victims such as prostitutes of people frequenting bars and then there are "innocents." This is a pet peeve of mine since it devalues the lives of certain victims and raises the stature of others. They are all people who deserved to live. It is possible that the author was mimicking the way people spoke of the victims at the time of the killing, but it bothered me.
Still, if you are interested in hearing some behind-the-scenes information about serial killers, this book has it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
She also utilized statements made by serial killers in court transcripts and reported in the press or in correspondence, when they were already dead (for example, Ted Bundy).
I found the brief family history of each of these people interesting. What makes someone become a serial killer?
There are 2 things that caused me to rate the book with 3 stars as opposed to 5 stars. First is the fact that she leans heavily on the stories of sexual serial killers when in reality, most serial killers don't have a sexual aspect to their killing. So this seemed like sensationalism.
The bigger issue was that in several places in the book she differentiates between victims. There are victims such as prostitutes of people frequenting bars and then there are "innocents." This is a pet peeve of mine since it devalues the lives of certain victims and raises the stature of others. They are all people who deserved to live. It is possible that the author was mimicking the way people spoke of the victims at the time of the killing, but it bothered me.
Still, if you are interested in hearing some behind-the-scenes information about serial killers, this book has it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 1, 2021
I’ve always been fascinated with true crime. I recently have been watching a lot of documentaries and true crime YouTubers. So, when Out of the Mouths of Serial Killers by Mary Brett came into my email, I jumped at the chance to read and review.
This is a very interesting concept, and I did enjoy it quite a bit. However, I have a few issues with it, that I’ll address here, quickly. While the blurb specifically states that direct quotes from different sources, I expected more direct letters from the killers to the authors. Some couldn’t be contacted because they’d died, and some declined to respond. I wish there were more direct letters.
The plus sides to this book are excellent though. I enjoyed learning more of the background of some serial killers I hadn’t heard about or didn’t know a lot about. There is a decent amount of info about each killer’s past and crimes, which helps us get more insight into why they killed.
When the killers cooperated and replied in letters, I found that the most compelling part of the book. I also found it interesting when a killer would state they were innocent. It really made me think, and research into some of the cases.
Overall, Out of the Mouths of Serial Killers is a solid book. As a true crime junkie, I enjoyed it.
*I received a free copy of this book from iReads Book Tours to review honestly on the blog tour. All opinions are my own and unbiased.*
This is a very interesting concept, and I did enjoy it quite a bit. However, I have a few issues with it, that I’ll address here, quickly. While the blurb specifically states that direct quotes from different sources, I expected more direct letters from the killers to the authors. Some couldn’t be contacted because they’d died, and some declined to respond. I wish there were more direct letters.
The plus sides to this book are excellent though. I enjoyed learning more of the background of some serial killers I hadn’t heard about or didn’t know a lot about. There is a decent amount of info about each killer’s past and crimes, which helps us get more insight into why they killed.
When the killers cooperated and replied in letters, I found that the most compelling part of the book. I also found it interesting when a killer would state they were innocent. It really made me think, and research into some of the cases.
Overall, Out of the Mouths of Serial Killers is a solid book. As a true crime junkie, I enjoyed it.
*I received a free copy of this book from iReads Book Tours to review honestly on the blog tour. All opinions are my own and unbiased.*
April 28, 2021
Out of the Mouths of Serial Killers by Mary Brett is an interesting book to read. Brett contacted about 75 serial killers to get their reasoning of why they took the lives of many people. Only a few wrote back, but it was interesting to read what they had to say. The answers were scattered, some not admitting to be a killer at all, some told exactly what happened and some really didn’t give an answer at all. There were many that were deceased. Brett did an excellent job of researching each person and had all of the info about their life, early childhood, growing up, and the crimes they were convicted of and those that didn’t have enough evidence. There are quotes from most of them from different publications.
I am glad I read this book, knowing how some of these criminals felt at the time the murdered their victims. I wish there had been more direct letters to hear more from the actual serial killers. Letters were the most interesting part. All in all, I sometimes read true crime books and this is a good one, it is well written and extensive research was done in order to obtain all of the info in each book. If you enjoy stories such as this, I encourage you to try Mary Brett’s book.
A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
I am glad I read this book, knowing how some of these criminals felt at the time the murdered their victims. I wish there had been more direct letters to hear more from the actual serial killers. Letters were the most interesting part. All in all, I sometimes read true crime books and this is a good one, it is well written and extensive research was done in order to obtain all of the info in each book. If you enjoy stories such as this, I encourage you to try Mary Brett’s book.
A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
March 18, 2021
Out of the Mouths of Serial Killers is an interesting read. I found it to be brave for the author to have the nerve to write the most notorious killers in modern day American history. She wanted to find out why they would kill and asked them. The book is filled with their responses and correspondence with her. It is an interesting look at their personalities and what goes on or went on in their dark minds and in their very own words. The book, also includes other documents in the cases that help convict these murderers. Which include: interrogations, court testimonies, news outlet interviews, and hearings for parole. There are seventy five serial killers within the pages. The author gives a small biography on each one, as well as, a look at their list of crimes, crime scene photos, their unfortunate victims, how they were caught, and some facts about the cases. It is pretty obvious that the author did thorough research for this book. I was intrigued reading it.
I am going to give Out of the Mouths of Serial Killers four and a half stars. I recommend it for readers who are interested in reading about serial murderers and notorious criminals. I would be interested in what else the author, Mary Brett, has written or what she plans to release in the future.
I received a paperback copy of Out of the Mouths of Serial Killers from the publisher. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
I am going to give Out of the Mouths of Serial Killers four and a half stars. I recommend it for readers who are interested in reading about serial murderers and notorious criminals. I would be interested in what else the author, Mary Brett, has written or what she plans to release in the future.
I received a paperback copy of Out of the Mouths of Serial Killers from the publisher. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
January 28, 2021
Raw and Intense
Brett pens a raw, true crime title in OUT OF THE MOUTHS OF SERIAL KILLERS/ This is the first book of this author's that I've read. The book gives information that comes straight from the killer's words, their letters. Brett tells the story that the killers tell her, but it is a little surreal entering the mind of the serial killer. There are over 70 killers in the book, and some are not as infamous as they wanted to be, and some are known only to their victims (and surviving family). There was a lot of research done to write this book, and I've read a lot of true crime and this is definitely a unique way to tell not only the killer's story but the victim's as well. It's dark and heartbreaking, and not just the answers to the question "why?" but also other details from statements, media and testimony. The title provides details that only the killer knows, and was willing to share. One killer (who was executed) said, “[If I didn't get caught] I’d still be killing. I couldn’t stop killing. It got easier with each one we did.” I look forward to reading more by this author. This book is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews.
Brett pens a raw, true crime title in OUT OF THE MOUTHS OF SERIAL KILLERS/ This is the first book of this author's that I've read. The book gives information that comes straight from the killer's words, their letters. Brett tells the story that the killers tell her, but it is a little surreal entering the mind of the serial killer. There are over 70 killers in the book, and some are not as infamous as they wanted to be, and some are known only to their victims (and surviving family). There was a lot of research done to write this book, and I've read a lot of true crime and this is definitely a unique way to tell not only the killer's story but the victim's as well. It's dark and heartbreaking, and not just the answers to the question "why?" but also other details from statements, media and testimony. The title provides details that only the killer knows, and was willing to share. One killer (who was executed) said, “[If I didn't get caught] I’d still be killing. I couldn’t stop killing. It got easier with each one we did.” I look forward to reading more by this author. This book is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews.
March 23, 2021
Out of the Mouths of Serial Killers is a non-fiction true crime book that is right up my alley. I have always bee drawn to true crime especially serial killers. The book is made up of stories of over 70 serial killers. Some still alive and in prison and some no longer living. The suthor sent a lett to several of them with one question. 'Why?"
I thought this book was interesting. It's not really a book that I could just sit down and read straight through. I had to take breaks because of the content. It could get pretty intense at times. In each section, there is information about what the killers did to their victims and personal information about each killer. She also includes statements or actual writings from each offender. My favorite ones were when the killer actually wrote back to the author. There were quite a few serial killers that I had never heard of, so I liked that I read some new content and not recycled information about some of the well known killers like Ted Bundy. I think this book will be interesting to any true crime reader. I do recommend it.
I thought this book was interesting. It's not really a book that I could just sit down and read straight through. I had to take breaks because of the content. It could get pretty intense at times. In each section, there is information about what the killers did to their victims and personal information about each killer. She also includes statements or actual writings from each offender. My favorite ones were when the killer actually wrote back to the author. There were quite a few serial killers that I had never heard of, so I liked that I read some new content and not recycled information about some of the well known killers like Ted Bundy. I think this book will be interesting to any true crime reader. I do recommend it.
March 29, 2021
I chose to read this book after receiving a free e-copy. All opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased.
True crime has always interested me, and when I saw that these serial killers were going to share letters about their crimes, I thought this should be very interesting. I was disappointed, however, because most of the letters the author received were to profess their innocence or to politely decline her request.
What Out of the Mouths of Serial Killers does give is each killer’s background, the crimes they committed, the victims, and quotes from various sources. A lot of the information was interesting, and it’s obvious that the author did a lot of research on the subject, but the title and summary of the book are misleading.
I would have probably read this book anyway but because I felt misled, I ended up too focused on that and didn’t appreciate it as much as I could have.
True crime has always interested me, and when I saw that these serial killers were going to share letters about their crimes, I thought this should be very interesting. I was disappointed, however, because most of the letters the author received were to profess their innocence or to politely decline her request.
What Out of the Mouths of Serial Killers does give is each killer’s background, the crimes they committed, the victims, and quotes from various sources. A lot of the information was interesting, and it’s obvious that the author did a lot of research on the subject, but the title and summary of the book are misleading.
I would have probably read this book anyway but because I felt misled, I ended up too focused on that and didn’t appreciate it as much as I could have.
May 22, 2023
Okay, so this is a bad book - bad in terms of organization, being able to understand what is going on (depending on the person), it had nothing to do with the title, the author's original "this is what I sent to everyone" letter was not true bc some of the "reported letters" had details about what she wrote happened in their lives/cases... just a lot basically because there are even more just off things about it than those (was there an editor???, her biases, the last chapter LMAO she really said get them out of the jails and into the cemetery).
That being said - I did still think it was an interesting "collection" of people, some of these people I had never heard of before and did some research into their cases and killings aside from the small blurb the author gave. Basically, I would recommend using it as a list of people you might want to research yourself but read it with a grain of salt. This was free through kobo+ for me but if I paid I would cry.
That being said - I did still think it was an interesting "collection" of people, some of these people I had never heard of before and did some research into their cases and killings aside from the small blurb the author gave. Basically, I would recommend using it as a list of people you might want to research yourself but read it with a grain of salt. This was free through kobo+ for me but if I paid I would cry.
January 24, 2021
I enjoy reading this book as you can quiet easily stop and start due to the number of cases in this book. As usual some serial killers take no responsibility and either did not commit the crimes or have other excuses. The book is professionally written, and the book is in alphabetical listing of the cases which is easy to retrace afterwards, also several of the cases describing the partnership of two killers.
The book will be extremely useful for law enforcement, those involved in the criminal justice system, and for true crime readers who want to read from excerpts of the killers and court reports.
I am only giving the book a three due to being engaged more when I read a book on one serial killers at a time, but this is personal choice only.
Thanks to Wildblue Press and I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The book will be extremely useful for law enforcement, those involved in the criminal justice system, and for true crime readers who want to read from excerpts of the killers and court reports.
I am only giving the book a three due to being engaged more when I read a book on one serial killers at a time, but this is personal choice only.
Thanks to Wildblue Press and I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 26, 2021
This book includes brief accountings of some of our nation’s serial killers -giving us the body counts and background of each one. However, I feel the title is a bit misleading.
Very few of the perpetrators responded to the author’s letters, and those that did certainly did not address the WHY. There are some direct quotes from various resources and a few photos. The book does give a link to where you can find more information and photos on the subjects.
I was a bit off-put by the last chapter which seems to be a personal rant about why the death penalty is not carried out in a timelier manner. The author is entitled to her opinion; I just think, in this case, the author should have remained unbiased in her writings.
It is a quick read, and it was interesting to note some of the similarities among the subjects.
Very few of the perpetrators responded to the author’s letters, and those that did certainly did not address the WHY. There are some direct quotes from various resources and a few photos. The book does give a link to where you can find more information and photos on the subjects.
I was a bit off-put by the last chapter which seems to be a personal rant about why the death penalty is not carried out in a timelier manner. The author is entitled to her opinion; I just think, in this case, the author should have remained unbiased in her writings.
It is a quick read, and it was interesting to note some of the similarities among the subjects.
January 23, 2021
I agreed to review this book because part of my expertise is psychology, and leading people to growth. I did not find what I was looking for. The book will be useful for criminologists, forensic psychologists, law enforcement professionals, and those involved in the criminal justice system. Apart from a prologue, and a brief argument for the death penalty, it consists of an alphabetical listing of 67 cases, several describing a partnership of two killers.
This is a valuable resource for researchers, and I suppose may titillate those with gruesome tastes, but I don’t see a wider readership. It reports an enormous amount of work, meticulously assembled and clearly presented.
As such, it deserves a place in the specialist literature on the subject.
This is a valuable resource for researchers, and I suppose may titillate those with gruesome tastes, but I don’t see a wider readership. It reports an enormous amount of work, meticulously assembled and clearly presented.
As such, it deserves a place in the specialist literature on the subject.
February 11, 2021
Out Of The Mouths Of Serial Killers is a book full of short biographies of the serial killer childhoods and either a brief quote from them or a letter responding to the authors correspondence. Having said that this is a great book for those just getting in to the true crime and serial killer genre and is a great addition to any true crime library. I wish there would’ve been more from the serial killers in general, but I guess with some of them deceased and some not talking she had to work with the information she had. I highly recommend this book to those I stated above who just started out in the true crime genre as most of the serial killers are well-known to those well acquainted with serial killers. I received this book from book sirens and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 18, 2021
I really wanted to say this book was a 5 star read, I very much was looking forward to this book and would have gladly waited and paid for this book. But I did received an advance review copy for free to review (no payment). My honest review was this book while informative was a little disappointing. As someone who studies criminology and reads as much true crime as I can, there was so much more potential for this based on the books title and synopsis. There is not much actual content or details in depth from serial killers, I read more though interview documents and documentaries even text books on such topics.
August 3, 2021
I wanted to like this book, I did but I found it to be really disappointing. The idea was set up that the author had written a letter to various serial killers asking them why they killed. Most didn't write back so she just took excerpts from interviews or court transcripts. I noticed a trend with some wording as well. Prostitutes were just "victims". Other people "innocent victims". Not cool. The additional facts section for each killer would often have repeated information. And the end of the book had a very biased section on the death penalty for some reason? Overall, I felt like a lot could have been done to make this book stronger.
February 18, 2021
I really enjoyed reading this book . Letters from the serial killers themselves , it was unlike any other true crime book I have read . I like knowing the why people do the evil things they do . I feel for the victims and no justice can every really be served when ones life is taken from them . The letters in this book let you get into the minds of the killers . Of course , they have no remorse for any lives they took . I will definitely want to read more from this author . I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 22, 2023
A superficial gloss over a number of serial killers (and not serial killers??) that adds little to what is already out there. Maybe a decent surface level introduction for those with little background in true crime. Ends with a bizarre rant about how one of the few countries that still uses state sanctioned murder to punish criminals should be killing more people by removing any stringent checks or appeals and disregarding psychological or psychiatric evaluation of intelligence by using nothing but an IQ test to determine if someone is intelligent enough to be killed by the state. Avoid.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 8, 2021
This is a very interesting and comprehensive book and the analysis you can glean from it is fascinating. Some of the individuals did not reply but instead quoted directly from them are used instead.
The structure is very well set out and when a reply is provided it adds a even more chilling insight into the minds of those.
Very much recommended
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
The structure is very well set out and when a reply is provided it adds a even more chilling insight into the minds of those.
Very much recommended
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
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