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Murder: The Biography
Totally gripping and brilliantly told, Murder: The Biography is a gruesome and utterly captivating portrait of the legal history of murder.
The stories and the people involved in the history of murder are stranger, darker and more compulsive than any crime fiction.
There’s Richard Parker, the cannibalized cabin boy whose death at the hands of his hungry crewmates led the Victorian courts to decisively outlaw a defence of necessity to murder. Dr Percy Bateman, the incompetent GP whose violent disregard for his patient changed the law on manslaughter. Ruth Ellis, the last woman hanged in England in the 1950s, played a crucial role in changes to the law around provocation in murder cases. And Archibald Kinloch, the deranged Scottish aristocrat whose fratricidal frenzy paved the way for the defence of diminished responsibility. These, and many more, are the people – victims, killers, lawyers and judges, who unwittingly shaped the history of that most grisly and storied of laws.
Join lawyer and writer Kate Morgan on a dark and macabre journey as she explores the strange stories and mysterious cases that have contributed to UK murder law. The big corporate killers; the vengeful spouses; the sloppy doctors; the abused partners; the shoddy employers; each story a crime and each crime a precedent that has contributed to the law’s dark, murky and, at times, shocking standing
The stories and the people involved in the history of murder are stranger, darker and more compulsive than any crime fiction.
There’s Richard Parker, the cannibalized cabin boy whose death at the hands of his hungry crewmates led the Victorian courts to decisively outlaw a defence of necessity to murder. Dr Percy Bateman, the incompetent GP whose violent disregard for his patient changed the law on manslaughter. Ruth Ellis, the last woman hanged in England in the 1950s, played a crucial role in changes to the law around provocation in murder cases. And Archibald Kinloch, the deranged Scottish aristocrat whose fratricidal frenzy paved the way for the defence of diminished responsibility. These, and many more, are the people – victims, killers, lawyers and judges, who unwittingly shaped the history of that most grisly and storied of laws.
Join lawyer and writer Kate Morgan on a dark and macabre journey as she explores the strange stories and mysterious cases that have contributed to UK murder law. The big corporate killers; the vengeful spouses; the sloppy doctors; the abused partners; the shoddy employers; each story a crime and each crime a precedent that has contributed to the law’s dark, murky and, at times, shocking standing
346 pages, Hardcover
First published April 29, 2021
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 265 reviews
May 10, 2021
The lawyer Kate Morgan writes a detailed and well researched British history of murder laws and the developments in the law through time, this is one for both true crime enthusiasts and anyone else interested in this fascinating and so often grisly subject of murder, intentional and accidental. It touches on crime and punishment, justice and injustice, notorious serial killers, and other critical cases that changed the law, and the relevance that persists to the present day of the Elizabethan and Jacobean figure of Sir Edward Coke's definitions and difference between murder and manslaughter in the criminal justice system. It highlights how shifts in public opinion and changing social norms and attitudes led to significant reforms in the law, after famous cases such as that of the abused Ruth Ellis's shooting of her feckless and faithless lover, she was convicted of murder and hanged.
We learn of the starving crew of the Mignonette eating the sickly cabin boy in order to survive, the incompetent Dr Bateman and the cover up that followed the death of a female patient, and the unofficial legal acceptance of duels, under specific engagement rules, seen through the scarcity of murder convictions, primarily of benefit to the upper classes and the military. In Edinburgh, we see the first use of the defense of not guilty of murder by reason of insanity, raising the issue of just how mad do you have to be? Through time this led to the first specialist institution for the criminally insane, Broadmoor, whose residents have included gangster Ronnie Kray and the Yorkshire Ripper, Peter Sutcliffe. Tragedies, such as Aberfan, the Marchioness disaster, Hillsborough, and the continuing present day inquiries into the horrors of the Grenfell fire chart the development of corporate manslaughter and negligence.
The distinctions in the laws between murder and manslaughter remain a grey and problematic area in the courts, incorporating self defence, provocation and extenuating circumstances, sometimes straying into victim blaming. The development and use of diminished responsibility has helped to free abused women like Sally Challon. What is particularly intriguing culturally and in real life is how the public can both revile and admire murderers, encapsulated in the popularity of songs such as Mack the Knife and Delilah. This is a insightful glimpse into the grim and darkest history of the most heinous of crimes that I think will appeal to many readers. Highly recommended. Many thanks to HarperCollins for an ARC.
We learn of the starving crew of the Mignonette eating the sickly cabin boy in order to survive, the incompetent Dr Bateman and the cover up that followed the death of a female patient, and the unofficial legal acceptance of duels, under specific engagement rules, seen through the scarcity of murder convictions, primarily of benefit to the upper classes and the military. In Edinburgh, we see the first use of the defense of not guilty of murder by reason of insanity, raising the issue of just how mad do you have to be? Through time this led to the first specialist institution for the criminally insane, Broadmoor, whose residents have included gangster Ronnie Kray and the Yorkshire Ripper, Peter Sutcliffe. Tragedies, such as Aberfan, the Marchioness disaster, Hillsborough, and the continuing present day inquiries into the horrors of the Grenfell fire chart the development of corporate manslaughter and negligence.
The distinctions in the laws between murder and manslaughter remain a grey and problematic area in the courts, incorporating self defence, provocation and extenuating circumstances, sometimes straying into victim blaming. The development and use of diminished responsibility has helped to free abused women like Sally Challon. What is particularly intriguing culturally and in real life is how the public can both revile and admire murderers, encapsulated in the popularity of songs such as Mack the Knife and Delilah. This is a insightful glimpse into the grim and darkest history of the most heinous of crimes that I think will appeal to many readers. Highly recommended. Many thanks to HarperCollins for an ARC.
August 2, 2021
Rounded up from around 3.5 stars ⭐️
Murder: The Biography is a non-fiction book discussing how various cases of homicide have changed the laws in the UK.
I admit, as a true crime enthusiast I was completely sold by the title and blurb of this book. Non-fiction is not usually my thing, but I learnt so much from this book that I did not know before. Kate Morgan has meticulously researched the cases in this book and discussed many that I knew nothing about previously. Her passion for the topic is displayed so clearly in her writing, at times speaking for those who can no longer speak for themselves. So many important topics were raised in this book in relation to how they’ve changed the laws, and what still needs to be improved.
As a warning to true crime fans, this book focuses mainly on the law, rather than focusing on the crime itself. This at times was a little difficult for me to read and I often found myself losing focus. However, I have had an extremely busy few weeks whilst I was reading this, so it is possible that my hectic schedule also impacted my ability to focus. As a teenager I had wanted to go into criminal law, but found it too dry for my personal tastes. However, Morgan makes the dry topic of law accessible and easy to understand, seamlessly untangling common misunderstandings of the law.
I want to thank Readers First, Harper Collins and Kate Morgan for allowing me to read this book and give my personal thoughts. I’d recommend this to anyone with an interest in the law around murder.
Murder: The Biography is a non-fiction book discussing how various cases of homicide have changed the laws in the UK.
I admit, as a true crime enthusiast I was completely sold by the title and blurb of this book. Non-fiction is not usually my thing, but I learnt so much from this book that I did not know before. Kate Morgan has meticulously researched the cases in this book and discussed many that I knew nothing about previously. Her passion for the topic is displayed so clearly in her writing, at times speaking for those who can no longer speak for themselves. So many important topics were raised in this book in relation to how they’ve changed the laws, and what still needs to be improved.
As a warning to true crime fans, this book focuses mainly on the law, rather than focusing on the crime itself. This at times was a little difficult for me to read and I often found myself losing focus. However, I have had an extremely busy few weeks whilst I was reading this, so it is possible that my hectic schedule also impacted my ability to focus. As a teenager I had wanted to go into criminal law, but found it too dry for my personal tastes. However, Morgan makes the dry topic of law accessible and easy to understand, seamlessly untangling common misunderstandings of the law.
I want to thank Readers First, Harper Collins and Kate Morgan for allowing me to read this book and give my personal thoughts. I’d recommend this to anyone with an interest in the law around murder.
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September 7, 2022Fascinating history of the laws on murder and manslaughter in the UK, from wergild to Grenfell. It's well told and comprehensive. Also enraging, as we see the legal profession bend over backwards to find reasons why men who kill women were provoked, or somehow not responsible, or boys-will-be-boys, while women who kill men after years of physical, sexual and emotional abuse must nevertheless take the full force of the law too bad so sad. What with the litany of random, stupid, or simply cruel violence, this is not a book that makes you feel warmly towards men.
Very interesting indeed and an engaging, well structured read.
Very interesting indeed and an engaging, well structured read.
May 15, 2021
ARC received in exchange for an honest review 💀
Murder: The Biography examines the definition of murder, and the often convoluted and complicated way in which the term has been applied and shaped throughout British history. It closely examines those important cases which have influenced the change in the law surrounding murder and the challenges often faced by judge and jury in convicting murderers. Because sometimes it's never as clean cut as a life for a life.
This covers so many different topics under a complicated legal system that has had to evolve in the wake of social changes. We start in Tudor times with the first definition of murder and premeditative intent, following on to Georgian duals, Victorian medical negligence and the introduction of manslaughter charges. Some of the cases are really interesting, especially the chapters that offer a real moral conundrum in convicting individuals for murder - such as maritime cannibalism, and mental instability. I also rather liked the chapter on corporate manslaughter - which I didn't realise was such a new edition in law in the first place. It's quite scary to think that companies can be fined more for environmental damage than the taking of human life through poor health and safety measures. Aberfan, the sinking of the Marchioness, Granfell...all are brought up in relation to the introduction of corporate manslaughter and how the law has changed because of the tragedies that happened.
I did think that the over arcing evolution of provocation charges which lead to murder in men (often used as a 'red mist' analogy) and women in abusive relationships could have been expanded on a little. We read of a few cases of diminished responsibility charges used in appeals for women charged with the murder of partners, but I really wanted some more cases. There's probably enough to make a whole book on the subject matter to be honest. I also found the writing a little dry at times, especially when deep diving into criminal law. As I've said, it's a very messy subject area, and sometimes the complicated descriptions of laws got a bit dull. However, I did find the writing very accessible on the whole and kept my interest piqued throughout.
Facinating look into the evolution of murder and law in Britain with some incredibly interesting cases. I learnt a lot, and would highly recommend to anyone looking to further their studies into true crime in the UK.
Murder: The Biography examines the definition of murder, and the often convoluted and complicated way in which the term has been applied and shaped throughout British history. It closely examines those important cases which have influenced the change in the law surrounding murder and the challenges often faced by judge and jury in convicting murderers. Because sometimes it's never as clean cut as a life for a life.
This covers so many different topics under a complicated legal system that has had to evolve in the wake of social changes. We start in Tudor times with the first definition of murder and premeditative intent, following on to Georgian duals, Victorian medical negligence and the introduction of manslaughter charges. Some of the cases are really interesting, especially the chapters that offer a real moral conundrum in convicting individuals for murder - such as maritime cannibalism, and mental instability. I also rather liked the chapter on corporate manslaughter - which I didn't realise was such a new edition in law in the first place. It's quite scary to think that companies can be fined more for environmental damage than the taking of human life through poor health and safety measures. Aberfan, the sinking of the Marchioness, Granfell...all are brought up in relation to the introduction of corporate manslaughter and how the law has changed because of the tragedies that happened.
I did think that the over arcing evolution of provocation charges which lead to murder in men (often used as a 'red mist' analogy) and women in abusive relationships could have been expanded on a little. We read of a few cases of diminished responsibility charges used in appeals for women charged with the murder of partners, but I really wanted some more cases. There's probably enough to make a whole book on the subject matter to be honest. I also found the writing a little dry at times, especially when deep diving into criminal law. As I've said, it's a very messy subject area, and sometimes the complicated descriptions of laws got a bit dull. However, I did find the writing very accessible on the whole and kept my interest piqued throughout.
Facinating look into the evolution of murder and law in Britain with some incredibly interesting cases. I learnt a lot, and would highly recommend to anyone looking to further their studies into true crime in the UK.
May 8, 2023
Vispārējs parskats par Lielbritānijas skaļākajām tiesas prāvām, ja interesē tēma, ļoti vērtīga lasāmviela.
September 10, 2021
Kate Morgan, teisininkė knygoje nagrinėjanti žmogžudystės, bausmės, nusikaltimo legalius aspektus Jungtinės Karalystės istorijoje. Ar žmogžudystė visada tiesiog žmogžudystė? Kur yra riba kada ji tampa netyčine ar dėl savigynos? Ar laivui dreifuojant ir iš bado suvalgius vieną įgulos narį tai žmogžudystė ar tiesiog veiksmas būtinas išgyvenimui?
Ruth Elis, paskutinė JK moteris nuteista mirties bausme ir pakarta 1950aisiais nes nušovė savo meilužį. Ar tikrai ji buvo tik budelis ar tiesiog auka kuri nežinojo kaip išspręsti savo psichines problemas? Ir ar patirtas ilgalaikis smurtas nuo vaikystės gali būti traktuojamas kaip išprovokavimas?
Ar gydytojas kuris atsitiktinai iš nežinojimo nužudęs daug pacientų yra žudikas ar tai tiesiog klaida?
Labai patiko skyriai apie “corporate murder” ir kodėl vieną žmogų nubausti už vieną žmogžudystę mes galime labai lengvai, o korporacijos kurios nužudo šimtus ar net tūkstančius labai lengvai išsisuka ir “niekas čia nekaltas”? 1987 metais keltas išvyko iš Belgijos uosto ir neuždarius vienų durų nuskendo 193 žmonęs ir visa įgula. Kas kalta sir kodėl niekas neliko nubaustas nes tokio žingsnio kaip patikrinimas ar viskas uždayta įstatuose tuo metu nebuvo? Įmonė kaltino belgų uosto darbuotojus, belgai įmonę.
Knygoje daug žinomų ir nežinomų žmonių ir istorijų kurios suformavo ar stipriai įtakojo kriminalinę sistemą.
Rekomenduoju visiems kam įdomu true crime žanras, kriminalinė teisė ir jos istorija.
Kitiems skaityti nelabai verta nes bylos nėra labai stipriai nagrinėjamos ir gali tekti arba googlint arba tiesiog bus neįdomu
Ruth Elis, paskutinė JK moteris nuteista mirties bausme ir pakarta 1950aisiais nes nušovė savo meilužį. Ar tikrai ji buvo tik budelis ar tiesiog auka kuri nežinojo kaip išspręsti savo psichines problemas? Ir ar patirtas ilgalaikis smurtas nuo vaikystės gali būti traktuojamas kaip išprovokavimas?
Ar gydytojas kuris atsitiktinai iš nežinojimo nužudęs daug pacientų yra žudikas ar tai tiesiog klaida?
Labai patiko skyriai apie “corporate murder” ir kodėl vieną žmogų nubausti už vieną žmogžudystę mes galime labai lengvai, o korporacijos kurios nužudo šimtus ar net tūkstančius labai lengvai išsisuka ir “niekas čia nekaltas”? 1987 metais keltas išvyko iš Belgijos uosto ir neuždarius vienų durų nuskendo 193 žmonęs ir visa įgula. Kas kalta sir kodėl niekas neliko nubaustas nes tokio žingsnio kaip patikrinimas ar viskas uždayta įstatuose tuo metu nebuvo? Įmonė kaltino belgų uosto darbuotojus, belgai įmonę.
Knygoje daug žinomų ir nežinomų žmonių ir istorijų kurios suformavo ar stipriai įtakojo kriminalinę sistemą.
Rekomenduoju visiems kam įdomu true crime žanras, kriminalinė teisė ir jos istorija.
Kitiems skaityti nelabai verta nes bylos nėra labai stipriai nagrinėjamos ir gali tekti arba googlint arba tiesiog bus neįdomu
July 7, 2025
A brilliantly written analysis of homicide legislation through time, perfectly narrated by Emilia Fox. This is not anything like a text book though, the writing flows with interest all the way; I never zoned out, and absorbed everything.
Highly recommended if you have interest in this subject.
Highly recommended if you have interest in this subject.
March 7, 2025
4 Stars = It definitely held my interest.
I enjoyed reading this, for the true crime stories, and learning about how these cases shaped the legal system England has today. The author has thoroughly researched the legal history of murder. Even though the book centres on England, she does make reference to the laws of other countries.
Excerpt: "The truth of murder is stranger, darker and more compelling than any fiction. It is made up of a patchwork of stories, stories of crime and punishment but also of justice and injustice, of people, places and very personal tragedies; all taking place against a backdrop of perpetual social shifts and political cataclysms. In tracing this history, we can see the effect that these deaths have had on all of our lives today. After all, the scariest stories are always the ones that are true."
Excerpt: "Despite the pervasiveness of this crime in all aspects of our culture, popular or otherwise, there is nothing black and white about it. The law relating to homicide is a complete jumble of antique rules, odd judicial decisions and ambiguous interpretations. When it comes to murder, we really don’t know the half of it. But we’re so used to watching and reading about it, we think we know more than we do – and a little knowledge can be a dangerous thing."
I enjoyed reading this, for the true crime stories, and learning about how these cases shaped the legal system England has today. The author has thoroughly researched the legal history of murder. Even though the book centres on England, she does make reference to the laws of other countries.
Excerpt: "The truth of murder is stranger, darker and more compelling than any fiction. It is made up of a patchwork of stories, stories of crime and punishment but also of justice and injustice, of people, places and very personal tragedies; all taking place against a backdrop of perpetual social shifts and political cataclysms. In tracing this history, we can see the effect that these deaths have had on all of our lives today. After all, the scariest stories are always the ones that are true."
Excerpt: "Despite the pervasiveness of this crime in all aspects of our culture, popular or otherwise, there is nothing black and white about it. The law relating to homicide is a complete jumble of antique rules, odd judicial decisions and ambiguous interpretations. When it comes to murder, we really don’t know the half of it. But we’re so used to watching and reading about it, we think we know more than we do – and a little knowledge can be a dangerous thing."
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September 8, 2021
An utterly beguiling read about one of the most controversial and complicated matters in human nature: murder.
Kate Morgan-a lawyer-has researched murder and the laws around murder in British history to within an inch of its life. It is so well-written as to feel slightly novelesque in that each case that Morgan shares with us-cases that have shaped the very letter of the law in Great Britain-is dealt with so well as to share only the facts of each and not turn it in to what in fiction can often just be a plot device.
Non-Fiction is difficult to rate as one uses these books to gain knowledge from another: another whom should have a greater understanding of the topic and yet do not always. Kate Morgan's credentials speak for themselves, and her manner of writing conveys this even more.
All of the examples cases felt relevant, whether they were particularly gruesome, vile, morbid or perhaps understandable and none of them ever felt like they'd be specifically chosen by Morgan to create any kind of shock or brutality within the piece.
Kate Morgan-a lawyer-has researched murder and the laws around murder in British history to within an inch of its life. It is so well-written as to feel slightly novelesque in that each case that Morgan shares with us-cases that have shaped the very letter of the law in Great Britain-is dealt with so well as to share only the facts of each and not turn it in to what in fiction can often just be a plot device.
Non-Fiction is difficult to rate as one uses these books to gain knowledge from another: another whom should have a greater understanding of the topic and yet do not always. Kate Morgan's credentials speak for themselves, and her manner of writing conveys this even more.
All of the examples cases felt relevant, whether they were particularly gruesome, vile, morbid or perhaps understandable and none of them ever felt like they'd be specifically chosen by Morgan to create any kind of shock or brutality within the piece.
October 8, 2022
A very interesting and well written book about the history of murder and manslaughter.
This was a very well researched and incredibly informative read about the history of how murder and manslaughter have come to be defined and how these terms have legally changed over the years since their inception.
Using real life case studies, this book is able to make what could be dull legal history into an interesting subject.
I loved how this book used a range of case studies from the 1800s to the present day. The cases were not just traditional homicides, but also ranged from medical negligence, corporate killings and deaths by dangerous driving.
The writing style was very accessible and easy to read and understand.
Overall, this was a very fascinating read which I certainly learnt a lot from. Highly recommended for any true crime fan.
This was a very well researched and incredibly informative read about the history of how murder and manslaughter have come to be defined and how these terms have legally changed over the years since their inception.
Using real life case studies, this book is able to make what could be dull legal history into an interesting subject.
I loved how this book used a range of case studies from the 1800s to the present day. The cases were not just traditional homicides, but also ranged from medical negligence, corporate killings and deaths by dangerous driving.
The writing style was very accessible and easy to read and understand.
Overall, this was a very fascinating read which I certainly learnt a lot from. Highly recommended for any true crime fan.
June 26, 2021
trigger warning
This is the history of the deed of murder in the UK, starting in the middle ages and reaching the post-modern times we find ourselves in.
The author gives a comprehensible, easily accessible and extremely readable chronology of the law changes and the cases that made these changes neccessary, treating the people they talk about with great tact and respect.
I really liked that in the foreword, the author outlined the content of this book, gave the geographical restrictions, and delved into the etymology of the word murder. While at first, I missed the footnotes - there are some with bonus information - at the end of the book there's a bibliography sorted by chapter, and most sources are the official case files. Additionally, this was an uncorrected proof, so who knows how the finished result looks.
I learned weird facts I don't really need to know, and I always love that.
Did you know that the term cold-blooded murder goes back to duelling times? If people had a row and reached for weapons immediately, that's hot-blooded, but if they make an effort to set time, place and arrange secundants, and if then someone happens to be killed, that's cold-blooded because they have had time to cool down and still chose to do this.
I liked this book a lot and would recommend it to either true crime fans, people interested in weird history or readers interested in English law.
The arc was provided by the publisher.
This is the history of the deed of murder in the UK, starting in the middle ages and reaching the post-modern times we find ourselves in.
The author gives a comprehensible, easily accessible and extremely readable chronology of the law changes and the cases that made these changes neccessary, treating the people they talk about with great tact and respect.
I really liked that in the foreword, the author outlined the content of this book, gave the geographical restrictions, and delved into the etymology of the word murder. While at first, I missed the footnotes - there are some with bonus information - at the end of the book there's a bibliography sorted by chapter, and most sources are the official case files. Additionally, this was an uncorrected proof, so who knows how the finished result looks.
I learned weird facts I don't really need to know, and I always love that.
Did you know that the term cold-blooded murder goes back to duelling times? If people had a row and reached for weapons immediately, that's hot-blooded, but if they make an effort to set time, place and arrange secundants, and if then someone happens to be killed, that's cold-blooded because they have had time to cool down and still chose to do this.
I liked this book a lot and would recommend it to either true crime fans, people interested in weird history or readers interested in English law.
The arc was provided by the publisher.
January 1, 2023
extremely fascinating and makes me want to know more !
August 26, 2023
Really interesting
December 2, 2022
I read so much non-fiction last month that my genre split was nearly 50/50 and I really enjoyed this interesting, detailed and clever look at how the crime of murder has developed and changed over the centuries.
It starts with the Anglo-Saxons and comes all the way through to modern day, looking at important cases that shaped the law and explaining how related crimes like manslaughter and gross negligence have also developed as society has changed and altered.
I was really gripped by this and also throughly enjoyed the audiobook, read by Emilia Fox, so I’d recommend it - if you can handle the grisly subject matter!
It starts with the Anglo-Saxons and comes all the way through to modern day, looking at important cases that shaped the law and explaining how related crimes like manslaughter and gross negligence have also developed as society has changed and altered.
I was really gripped by this and also throughly enjoyed the audiobook, read by Emilia Fox, so I’d recommend it - if you can handle the grisly subject matter!
February 27, 2024
A very interesting retelling of murder law in the UK. Combined with all the cases, that shaped this law. It was an engaging read.
May 13, 2021
I must admit I always find nonfiction tricky to review but here goes...
Putting the UK murder law under the spotlight, by delving into both past and modern cases and explaining how different crimes have each paved the way for change, 𝘔𝘶𝘳𝘥𝘦𝘳: 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘉𝘪𝘰𝘨𝘳𝘢𝘱𝘩𝘺 explores exactly how, when and why the law of murder in the UK has been altered, over the years.
Fascinating, extensively researched and at times down right gruesome, it's not a book for the faint hearted. With discussions ranging from grisly details of particular cases, the differences between the charges of murder and manslaughter, to the question of insanity and diminished responsibility - nor is it what I'd call an easy read, but there's definitely a lot to sink your teeth into!
I found the stories incredibly interesting, learning of the ways in which these crimes and those who committed them contributed to (sometimes much needed) changes within the law, leaving me with a better understanding of our modern law today. There is the mention of some well known names, but actually, I found I had no previous knowledge of many of the individuals nor their crimes, which I found surprising considering the laws in which they changed! I came away having learnt something new.
A must read for anyone with an interest in either true crime or law - the way in which it is written, makes it just as binge worthy as any Netflix documentary!
🔪💀
Putting the UK murder law under the spotlight, by delving into both past and modern cases and explaining how different crimes have each paved the way for change, 𝘔𝘶𝘳𝘥𝘦𝘳: 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘉𝘪𝘰𝘨𝘳𝘢𝘱𝘩𝘺 explores exactly how, when and why the law of murder in the UK has been altered, over the years.
Fascinating, extensively researched and at times down right gruesome, it's not a book for the faint hearted. With discussions ranging from grisly details of particular cases, the differences between the charges of murder and manslaughter, to the question of insanity and diminished responsibility - nor is it what I'd call an easy read, but there's definitely a lot to sink your teeth into!
I found the stories incredibly interesting, learning of the ways in which these crimes and those who committed them contributed to (sometimes much needed) changes within the law, leaving me with a better understanding of our modern law today. There is the mention of some well known names, but actually, I found I had no previous knowledge of many of the individuals nor their crimes, which I found surprising considering the laws in which they changed! I came away having learnt something new.
A must read for anyone with an interest in either true crime or law - the way in which it is written, makes it just as binge worthy as any Netflix documentary!
🔪💀
August 26, 2022
To get one invested in a non-fiction book, you need a unique angle, a voice, to transcend the copy and paste structure journalism and such offers.
Murder: A Biography isn't what the blurb pieces and synopsis promises. It's dry. Bland. Boring.
I managed 250 pages, but, I just couldn't read the further 50 to 60 pages. It is awfully written.
Why? There is no pace, unique angle to view and analyse its material. Kate Morgan hasn't got a voice. There is no expert opinion on offer here, it is a straight down the middle TEXTBOOK 101 research, copy and paste job.
There is nothing but judicial jargon, repeatedly re-repeated over and over. Little to no actual depth or dimension. It is not interesting at all. If you are into law and order, read it and study it. As a book for leisure and entertainment, it is droll.
This isn't engaging. It is excruciating.
Don't bother.
Murder: A Biography isn't what the blurb pieces and synopsis promises. It's dry. Bland. Boring.
I managed 250 pages, but, I just couldn't read the further 50 to 60 pages. It is awfully written.
Why? There is no pace, unique angle to view and analyse its material. Kate Morgan hasn't got a voice. There is no expert opinion on offer here, it is a straight down the middle TEXTBOOK 101 research, copy and paste job.
There is nothing but judicial jargon, repeatedly re-repeated over and over. Little to no actual depth or dimension. It is not interesting at all. If you are into law and order, read it and study it. As a book for leisure and entertainment, it is droll.
This isn't engaging. It is excruciating.
Don't bother.
June 3, 2021
Whilst the actual facts and history are fascinating this seems very drawn out and not overly engaging
June 23, 2021
This was a fascinating and detailed exploration of the art of Murder! The infamous, and not so famous, cases over the years that have shaped the way we view murder and how the lines blur from case to case, showing up the gaps in law that can't cope with the dark and disturbing acts committed by humans.
The author has done a brilliant job of looking back over time at a number of different cases over hundreds of years. How crimes have changed and how the punishments too have differed over the years. From the death penalty to the use of secure hospitals for those claiming mental instability.
Some of the cases I'd heard of so they did resonate, but I was equally fascinated by the cases that had passed me by showing the dark and disturbing and it does a brilliant job of opening topics up to debate - from the appeal system, the difference between murder and manslaughter and how we all become 'armchair lawyers' when a high profile case hits the media. And even goes into how crimes cross over into films and tv, and how the public fascination with these horrific crimes never seems to wane.
I learnt so much from this book - including the background to the phrase 'sweet fanny adams' to what used to be built on the site of Liverpool Street Station - along with a greater understanding of the process behind the scenes and how cases are dealt with and I found it to be a real eye-opening read.
The author has done a brilliant job of looking back over time at a number of different cases over hundreds of years. How crimes have changed and how the punishments too have differed over the years. From the death penalty to the use of secure hospitals for those claiming mental instability.
Some of the cases I'd heard of so they did resonate, but I was equally fascinated by the cases that had passed me by showing the dark and disturbing and it does a brilliant job of opening topics up to debate - from the appeal system, the difference between murder and manslaughter and how we all become 'armchair lawyers' when a high profile case hits the media. And even goes into how crimes cross over into films and tv, and how the public fascination with these horrific crimes never seems to wane.
I learnt so much from this book - including the background to the phrase 'sweet fanny adams' to what used to be built on the site of Liverpool Street Station - along with a greater understanding of the process behind the scenes and how cases are dealt with and I found it to be a real eye-opening read.
January 3, 2022
Murder: The Biography may surprise people who haven’t read the blurb, as the book actually looks at the way the British legal system looks at murder and the way it has changed over time. It wasn’t quite what I was expecting (though it does make this clear in the blurb as mentioned) though it was a pleasant surprise as I actually really enjoyed learning about the cases that changed the legal system and the impact the legal system subsequently had on other cases.
The book is well researched and the author obviously intelligent and knowledgeable. The parts that will still excite the majority of readers will be the more grisly cases, as is the morbid fascination in murder I imagine will attract the majority of casual crime readers to this book. Particularly interesting was the case of the 3 seamen lost at sea who killed and ate the cabin boy to survive and the subsequent legal case that followed.
I do think however it should be titled ‘homicide: the biography’ as it feels like at least 50% of the cases and analysis actually looks at manslaughter rather than murder itself. While the book makes clear there can be at times a fine line between the two (and of course, it’s worthwhile to look at manslaughter as a result) I felt there was too much time spent looking at manslaughter and negligence cases against doctors, governing bodies and companies – especially towards the end of the book where in most cases there is no suggestion that anybody actually deliberately murdered anyone, which this book is about.
Overall, it’s a fascinating and accessible insight into the history of homicide in the eyes of the law, that really gave me some valuable knowledge in a book I enjoyed reading. I’d still recommend it, and it’s expertly written, I just would have liked a little more murder.
The book is well researched and the author obviously intelligent and knowledgeable. The parts that will still excite the majority of readers will be the more grisly cases, as is the morbid fascination in murder I imagine will attract the majority of casual crime readers to this book. Particularly interesting was the case of the 3 seamen lost at sea who killed and ate the cabin boy to survive and the subsequent legal case that followed.
I do think however it should be titled ‘homicide: the biography’ as it feels like at least 50% of the cases and analysis actually looks at manslaughter rather than murder itself. While the book makes clear there can be at times a fine line between the two (and of course, it’s worthwhile to look at manslaughter as a result) I felt there was too much time spent looking at manslaughter and negligence cases against doctors, governing bodies and companies – especially towards the end of the book where in most cases there is no suggestion that anybody actually deliberately murdered anyone, which this book is about.
Overall, it’s a fascinating and accessible insight into the history of homicide in the eyes of the law, that really gave me some valuable knowledge in a book I enjoyed reading. I’d still recommend it, and it’s expertly written, I just would have liked a little more murder.
August 7, 2021
I really enjoyed this book. Written to show how the law of Murder has been categorised and changed throughout the history of the English legal system.
Kate Morgan uses real life cases to demonstrate the changes in perspective and laws, as society changes. The writing was easy to follow and flowed through out the book. Some of the cases are the ones we see in the headlines, still to this days, others are the historic murders that. started the changes in the law.
I was really interested that Corporate Manslaughter was discussed and included insight into such incidents as Piper Alpha and Zeebrugge Ferry Disaster.
There were legal terms used and there is a handy glossary in the back and all the case law that was used for the research, for those who will no doubt be delving deeper.
It is not just a book for the legal minded. If you have any interest in history, sociology or true crime, I would recommend this book to you. In fact as I was reading I was messaging people I know telling them they need to read this.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an eARC of this book for my honest review.
Kate Morgan uses real life cases to demonstrate the changes in perspective and laws, as society changes. The writing was easy to follow and flowed through out the book. Some of the cases are the ones we see in the headlines, still to this days, others are the historic murders that. started the changes in the law.
I was really interested that Corporate Manslaughter was discussed and included insight into such incidents as Piper Alpha and Zeebrugge Ferry Disaster.
There were legal terms used and there is a handy glossary in the back and all the case law that was used for the research, for those who will no doubt be delving deeper.
It is not just a book for the legal minded. If you have any interest in history, sociology or true crime, I would recommend this book to you. In fact as I was reading I was messaging people I know telling them they need to read this.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an eARC of this book for my honest review.
May 8, 2021
Ooooh this is good. Packed with true crime stories across the UK and how it impacted society, legislation and future verdicts. Kate really knows her stuff as fact after fact is thrown at you and each is impactful, insightful and fascinating. Discusses wider societal issues such as Aberfan and Hillsborough but similarly tackles head on case study cases that shape and make our laws. From women subjected to domestic violence, murder v manslaughter, and some just truly gruesome; this has it all. If you are the sort of person to watch every crime doc on Netflix, this is the read for you. Little bit intrigued but daunted? Dive in. Truly absorbing and fascinating.
April 12, 2025
A look at the development of the English judicial system on the topic of murder, & the cases that contributed to changing aspects of the law. From well-known cases to more obscure crimes, each one helped either set a precedent or provided the need for updating current case law.
Given the subject, I wondered if it was going to be quite dry to read, but I needn't have worried. It was a really interesting read from start to finish. As the book moves through the centuries from the Tudor legal bigwig, Sir Edward Coke, to the present-day, the author focuses on a particular aspect of the law from domestic murder to holding companies responsible for decisions which lead to the death of employees or customers. A comprehensive look at the evolution of English law. 4.5 stars (rounded down)
My thanks to NetGalley & publishers, HarperCollins UK/Mudlark, for the opportunity to read an ARC.
Given the subject, I wondered if it was going to be quite dry to read, but I needn't have worried. It was a really interesting read from start to finish. As the book moves through the centuries from the Tudor legal bigwig, Sir Edward Coke, to the present-day, the author focuses on a particular aspect of the law from domestic murder to holding companies responsible for decisions which lead to the death of employees or customers. A comprehensive look at the evolution of English law. 4.5 stars (rounded down)
My thanks to NetGalley & publishers, HarperCollins UK/Mudlark, for the opportunity to read an ARC.
May 30, 2021
This was a fascinating and extremely well researched book looking at the history of murder in Britain; more specifically, the legal definitions and criminal cases that brought us to the where we are now. Far from being a salacious look at all of the famous murderers of the past, this is instead a thoughtful history of the crime itself from a legal standpoint beginning with the anglo-saxon penalties and travelling through the landmark cases that have made substantive changes to the law code. Not for everyone, I personally thought this was excellent and will definitely read future works from Kate Morgan.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review.
June 15, 2021
A whistle-stop tour of the law of murder from the 1700s to now!
I really enjoyed this non-fiction book; I thought the balance between grisly crime details and case law was spot-on.
Overall this is a fantastic overview of the development of the law of murder over the many years. I would recommend it to anyone interested in true crime.
[I received a copy of this book free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review]
I really enjoyed this non-fiction book; I thought the balance between grisly crime details and case law was spot-on.
Overall this is a fantastic overview of the development of the law of murder over the many years. I would recommend it to anyone interested in true crime.
[I received a copy of this book free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review]
July 21, 2021
Could probably have done with being titled Homicide: The Biography, since it spent as much time talking about manslaughter and negligence and corporate liability as murder, but still a very good read!
March 28, 2022
Very insightful. Well written, the 'dry' legal detail is minimal, interspersed with cases, and all explained very well. Interesting to read about the genesis of the charge of murder, and an insight into how the law 'works' (or doesn't!). Also helped me understand why the law doesn't always keep up with society. Our politicians have some work to do - get to it!
October 18, 2022
This work charts the changes in legislation regarding homicide in all its forms through the cases that brought about those reforms. It's a different approach to the true crime format but fascinating nonetheless.
December 4, 2022
A decent history book about the legal side of murder and homicide, which is not as straightforward as most of us think.
Really interesting case studies picked by the author; I particularly was engrossed with the chapter on corporate manslaughter, which is fairly new to this country and still has a lot to account for and blurred lines to toe.
Really interesting case studies picked by the author; I particularly was engrossed with the chapter on corporate manslaughter, which is fairly new to this country and still has a lot to account for and blurred lines to toe.
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