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London Serial Killers
Murders and murderers fascinate us – and perhaps serial killers fascinate us most of all. In the twentieth century the term came to be used to describe murders committed by the same person, often with similar methods. But, as Jonathan Oates demonstrates in this selection of cases from London, this category of crime has existed for centuries, though it may have become more common in modern times. Using police and pathologists’ reports, Home Office and prison files, trial transcripts and lurid accounts in contemporary newspapers, he reconstructs these cases in order to explain how they took place, who the killers were, what motivated them, and how for a while they got away with their crimes. He does not neglect the victims and provides a revealing analysis of the killers, their circumstances and their actions.
Among the nineteenth-century cases are the infamous killings of Jack the Ripper and the less-well-known but terrifying crimes of the only female killer, the Deptford Poisoner. Twentieth-century cases covered in forensic detail include the Black-out Ripper of 1942, the Thames Nude Murders of the 1960s and the multiple killings of Joseph Smith, John Christie and John George Haigh. There is also one especially troubling unsolved case – the notorious Soho prostitute killings of the 1930s and 1940s, which may be the work of one man.
Jonathan Oates’s gripping accounts of this wide range of serial killings gives us a powerful insight into the nature of these crimes, the characters of the killers and the police methods of the period.
Among the nineteenth-century cases are the infamous killings of Jack the Ripper and the less-well-known but terrifying crimes of the only female killer, the Deptford Poisoner. Twentieth-century cases covered in forensic detail include the Black-out Ripper of 1942, the Thames Nude Murders of the 1960s and the multiple killings of Joseph Smith, John Christie and John George Haigh. There is also one especially troubling unsolved case – the notorious Soho prostitute killings of the 1930s and 1940s, which may be the work of one man.
Jonathan Oates’s gripping accounts of this wide range of serial killings gives us a powerful insight into the nature of these crimes, the characters of the killers and the police methods of the period.
224 pages, Hardcover
Published April 30, 2022
7 people are currently reading
33 people want to read
About the author
Jonathan Oates
56 books10 followersJonathan D. Oates is a historian and prolific author on the subject of the Jacobite campaigns from 1689-1746. His focus is on military matters, the British Army and its commanders, and especially the English dimension of the period. This is his seventh book on the topic and he has also written about thirty articles on aspects of Jacobitism, anti-Jacobitism, and the military campaigns. He has also edited three volumes of relevant material; the memoir of a loyalist Scottish officer, the letters of the Duke of Cumberland, as well as a memoir of an eighteenth century Leeds schoolmaster. There are a number of other similar books in the pipeline, including one on sieges of the 'Forty Five. The author studied History at Reading University in 1988-1991, obtaining a First Class degree with a thesis about the 'Fifteen, and then a doctorate from the same place in 2001, covering responses in north eastern England to the two major eighteenth century rebellions. He has been employed as Borough Archivist for the London Borough of Ealing since 1999. He has also had books published about criminal, local, and family history, especially in and around London.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
January 28, 2024
This was an interesting and jam-packed book filled with the disturbing history of London’s less notorious killers. I enjoyed this immensely and found it so intriguing to learn about the other crimes that were taking place in the shadows of the infamous killers of this period. Something different, well researched and well written.
February 3, 2022
Many thanks to the publishers for granting my wish and permitting me to read an ARC of this book before it is published.
I would like to premise this review by stating that I enjoy learning about history and psychology. As such, London Serial Killers by Dr. Jonathan Oates was right up my alley. The author flawlessly executed the melding of both history and psychology of each serial killer examined within this book. It was masterfully executed and made this book a complete and utter joy to read, so much so that I completed this book in approximately 6 sittings in a period shy of a week. The book itself contained no discernible errors and was edited superbly.
London Serial Killers by Dr. Jonathan Oates did not read like a textbook. Oh no not at all, the author sets the stage for each killer examined by giving the reader a back drop of the cultural and historical aspects of the society when the murders took place. Thereafter, he examines the victims themselves, the investigations conducted and then of course the serial killers themselves. I found myself absolutely loving how the author structured the book because we get the background to the era, the investigative styles, the names of the investigators, the victims, name, descriptions and background, as well as, what was done to them and by whom. This book is a wonderful read with clear and concise analysis of the killers, their victims and the period in which they killed. It was also a breathe of fresh air to read research and analysis conducted and written in this format about serial killers in the United Kingdom, specifically London because the market is flooded with information about American serial killers. As such, it was great to learn something new about serial killers and how law enforcement approached them in another jurisdiction.
I do believe that this book is perfect for students, academics and even those like myself who are interested in learning more about serial killers both of the fairly modern age and of an age long past. A reader who is just interested in the topic of serial killers will not be bored at all as this book does not read like a textbook but has all the information that a textbook would usually contain.
I would like to premise this review by stating that I enjoy learning about history and psychology. As such, London Serial Killers by Dr. Jonathan Oates was right up my alley. The author flawlessly executed the melding of both history and psychology of each serial killer examined within this book. It was masterfully executed and made this book a complete and utter joy to read, so much so that I completed this book in approximately 6 sittings in a period shy of a week. The book itself contained no discernible errors and was edited superbly.
London Serial Killers by Dr. Jonathan Oates did not read like a textbook. Oh no not at all, the author sets the stage for each killer examined by giving the reader a back drop of the cultural and historical aspects of the society when the murders took place. Thereafter, he examines the victims themselves, the investigations conducted and then of course the serial killers themselves. I found myself absolutely loving how the author structured the book because we get the background to the era, the investigative styles, the names of the investigators, the victims, name, descriptions and background, as well as, what was done to them and by whom. This book is a wonderful read with clear and concise analysis of the killers, their victims and the period in which they killed. It was also a breathe of fresh air to read research and analysis conducted and written in this format about serial killers in the United Kingdom, specifically London because the market is flooded with information about American serial killers. As such, it was great to learn something new about serial killers and how law enforcement approached them in another jurisdiction.
I do believe that this book is perfect for students, academics and even those like myself who are interested in learning more about serial killers both of the fairly modern age and of an age long past. A reader who is just interested in the topic of serial killers will not be bored at all as this book does not read like a textbook but has all the information that a textbook would usually contain.
January 27, 2022
I think this is a hidden gem that people have yet to discover. It is appears it is Dr. Oates debut novel unless he also pens without the Dr. in his name. Nonetheless, I really like how this is presented. It could be the longest dissertation known to man if he had desired haha. It had a very specific focus, it presented suspects and theories as well as a very researched overview of these specific murders. I feel like I am letting my field of criminology down by actually learning something from this book instead of already knowing it. However this was great. It wouldnt really appeal to the "crime junkies" or those that read "true crime" becuase its not really a story but instead very good overviews of the cases and with many unsolved this makes those crime obsessed members upset. I still say read it love it and have a great dya
February 1, 2022
I received an ARC of, London Serial Killers by, Dr. Jonathon Oates. Its interesting that most serial killers in London used poison to kill their victims. This is a good book, exploring London's serial killers.
April 26, 2022
Originally posted on my blog: Nonstop Reader.
London Serial Killers is a true-crime biography of historical murderers from London and its environs curated and written by Dr. Jonathan Oates. Due out 12th May from Pen & Sword on their True Crime imprint, it's 224 pages and will be available in hardcover format.
The author writes accessibly and well, without resorting to overly lurid detail. The chapters are arranged chronologically by subject, starting with the perennial (Jack the Ripper), and including both well and lesser known killers, both male and female down through the 20th century. The author examines both motives and methods along with the biography and historical highlights. There are a number of fascinating transcripts from the trials of the murderers.
The text is meticulously annotated and written in accessible and easy to understand language. The chapter notes and bibliography will provide hours of further reading for students of true-crime history. The text is enhanced with an appendix which contains historical and modern photos of the environs and some of the sites where the murders occurred as well as facsimile documents. There are no lurid crime scene photographs.
Four stars. Well written and absorbing. Recommended for readers of true crime history.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
London Serial Killers is a true-crime biography of historical murderers from London and its environs curated and written by Dr. Jonathan Oates. Due out 12th May from Pen & Sword on their True Crime imprint, it's 224 pages and will be available in hardcover format.
The author writes accessibly and well, without resorting to overly lurid detail. The chapters are arranged chronologically by subject, starting with the perennial (Jack the Ripper), and including both well and lesser known killers, both male and female down through the 20th century. The author examines both motives and methods along with the biography and historical highlights. There are a number of fascinating transcripts from the trials of the murderers.
The text is meticulously annotated and written in accessible and easy to understand language. The chapter notes and bibliography will provide hours of further reading for students of true-crime history. The text is enhanced with an appendix which contains historical and modern photos of the environs and some of the sites where the murders occurred as well as facsimile documents. There are no lurid crime scene photographs.
Four stars. Well written and absorbing. Recommended for readers of true crime history.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
May 21, 2022
Princess Fuzzypants here: There is something about serial killers that seems to fascinate. I am sure that throughout modern history there has been much discussion on what passes for insanity and what is simply sociopaths and psychopaths. While a number of the killers included in the book attempted to avoid the death penalty by trying to convince a jury they were insane, none of them succeeded. They were simply warped individuals who cared nothing for anything or anyone other than themselves.
The book covers the major purveyors of this crime from the late Victorian era to mid 20th Century. There were the poisoners, and the ones with unique calling cards such as bathtub drownings and acid baths. The first and last major killers share one sad fact. No one has ever been brought to justice for the horrors they perpetrated.
It is well researched but the writing seems to lack any particular passion or purpose. As a piece of documentation it is satisfying but if you are looking for something that will sweep you up, this is not the book. Three purrs and two paws up.
The book covers the major purveyors of this crime from the late Victorian era to mid 20th Century. There were the poisoners, and the ones with unique calling cards such as bathtub drownings and acid baths. The first and last major killers share one sad fact. No one has ever been brought to justice for the horrors they perpetrated.
It is well researched but the writing seems to lack any particular passion or purpose. As a piece of documentation it is satisfying but if you are looking for something that will sweep you up, this is not the book. Three purrs and two paws up.
February 20, 2022
3/5 Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
A rather macabre topic to say the least. There was obviously much research done for this book, (references included); but at times, this book seemed little more than a compilation of facts: listing names, dates, areas of activity, and employment statistics of both the victims and killers. I guess that I was looking for more of a story; but I can see how that would be little more than speculation with all the victims being dead and the killers being deranged individuals.
The Conclusion chapter was quite interesting. In the eighty years covered, there were nine known serial killers who claimed at least forty-three lives. These are broken down into statistics according to: sex, age, and occupation of the victims (overwhelmingly young female prostitutes); sex and age of the perpetrator (usually young and male); relationship between killer and victim (mostly none); method used; motivation for the murders; and number of victims per killer; among other things. The author states that although serial killers are rare, causing less that one per cent of all murders, their grim deeds are abnormal and therefore newsworthy. This well researched, well written, book was very informative.
A rather macabre topic to say the least. There was obviously much research done for this book, (references included); but at times, this book seemed little more than a compilation of facts: listing names, dates, areas of activity, and employment statistics of both the victims and killers. I guess that I was looking for more of a story; but I can see how that would be little more than speculation with all the victims being dead and the killers being deranged individuals.
The Conclusion chapter was quite interesting. In the eighty years covered, there were nine known serial killers who claimed at least forty-three lives. These are broken down into statistics according to: sex, age, and occupation of the victims (overwhelmingly young female prostitutes); sex and age of the perpetrator (usually young and male); relationship between killer and victim (mostly none); method used; motivation for the murders; and number of victims per killer; among other things. The author states that although serial killers are rare, causing less that one per cent of all murders, their grim deeds are abnormal and therefore newsworthy. This well researched, well written, book was very informative.
May 1, 2024
London is well known for the Jack the Ripper killings - but there are other serial killers who roamed the streets, and stayed in the shadows.
Crime is ever present, but most serial killers in this arena have taken a backseat to the more well known - however, it is a shame to dismiss them out of hand. Reviewing these old cases shows just how desperate some people were, and what they would do in order to cash in on life insurance, obtain property, or just killing for pleasure.
The bathtub murders, a poisoner, and more - all are listed in these pages, and you are not going to be disappointed! I really enjoyed the many different killers that were shared in these pages, and even found a few that I did not know about!
True crime lovers - grab this one now!
Crime is ever present, but most serial killers in this arena have taken a backseat to the more well known - however, it is a shame to dismiss them out of hand. Reviewing these old cases shows just how desperate some people were, and what they would do in order to cash in on life insurance, obtain property, or just killing for pleasure.
The bathtub murders, a poisoner, and more - all are listed in these pages, and you are not going to be disappointed! I really enjoyed the many different killers that were shared in these pages, and even found a few that I did not know about!
True crime lovers - grab this one now!
January 29, 2022
An ideal book for any true crime fanatic. The author goes through each crime with delicacy and writes of details about the slayings that I perhaps hadn't seen elsewhere, despite my love of true crime!
One thing i really liked about this book is learning of crimes that weren't popularised! Instead of writing about all the well-known killings, the author has chosen to write about crimes over a space of time (1888-1965) and therefore putting the spotlight on crimes some people may not be familiar with - for example The Brides in the Bath Murderer, George Joseph Smith!
Congratulations to Jonathan Oates on a fantastic novel.
One thing i really liked about this book is learning of crimes that weren't popularised! Instead of writing about all the well-known killings, the author has chosen to write about crimes over a space of time (1888-1965) and therefore putting the spotlight on crimes some people may not be familiar with - for example The Brides in the Bath Murderer, George Joseph Smith!
Congratulations to Jonathan Oates on a fantastic novel.
March 3, 2022
London Serial Killers
A book that study’s serial killers and their victims….
It is no secret that @penswordbooks are my FAVOURITE book publishing company! I just enjoy many books they release and whenever a book is available on NetGalley I do my best to read it! London Serial Killers being my most recent.
I found this to be very fasinating and it is ideal for anyone who enjoys true crime.
With each chapter I was engrossed and was excited to keep reading more…. Even if it was freaking me out!!!
4.5 stars
A book that study’s serial killers and their victims….
It is no secret that @penswordbooks are my FAVOURITE book publishing company! I just enjoy many books they release and whenever a book is available on NetGalley I do my best to read it! London Serial Killers being my most recent.
I found this to be very fasinating and it is ideal for anyone who enjoys true crime.
With each chapter I was engrossed and was excited to keep reading more…. Even if it was freaking me out!!!
4.5 stars
August 20, 2022
This is an excellent account of London serial killers, from the late 1800s to the 1960s, including classic cases such as Jack the Ripper and lesser known ones such as The Black Out Ripper. Several poisoning cases for gain are included. The author has made extensive use of primary sources (police records, contemporary newspaper articles, genealogical databases) to create a vivid and factually correct picture of each case. I recommend this book to anyone interested in true crime and historical criminology.
February 1, 2022
I have a fascination with true crime and so this book on the Seriual Killers throughout time in London was such an interesting read. I loved reading about the well known cases such as Jack the Ripper alongside cases that I knew less about or hadnt even heard of such as the Black out Ripper amongst several others. It was truly fascinating to take na almost forensic look at these killers and their depraved crimes. I loved it.
February 6, 2022
I enjoy true crime books and this was a wonderfully researched book. This combined both history and the psychology behind the murders and the killings themselves. The author included some backstory and how rare murders were then. This is the first book I've read on serial killers that wasn't modern and American. The prevalence of poisoning was also surprise to me. I found this book to be both enjoyable and informative.
Thank you NetGalley for this ARC
Thank you NetGalley for this ARC
April 24, 2022
An informative, entertaining, and well researched true crime book that talks about the serial killer in London history, starting with Jack the Ripper.
It's talks about the killing, the victims, how the police investigated, and the suspects/culprits.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
It's talks about the killing, the victims, how the police investigated, and the suspects/culprits.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
July 11, 2022
This has been well researched and is presented in a clear and factual way, without unnecessary drama and subjective observations. It is this approach which gives it such balance across the components of each case -the criminal, the victims, the police and their procedures, the crimes themselves. There are some fascinating cases here, some of which have received limited attention in other such analyses. This is a great book for people interested in true crime without the theatrics.
May 3, 2022
London Serial Killers is a true crime book from Dr Jonathan Oates.
I enjoyed this read although having read True Crime books on this topic before I knew most of the stories. Still an interesting read and professionally researched.
Thanks to Netgalley and Pen and Sword for the ARC Copy. This review is my own opinion.
I enjoyed this read although having read True Crime books on this topic before I knew most of the stories. Still an interesting read and professionally researched.
Thanks to Netgalley and Pen and Sword for the ARC Copy. This review is my own opinion.
March 12, 2022
Very in depth view and gave more information that I'd never heard before, this book showcases some of the most notorious and lesser known serial killers. As a fan of true crime I would very much recomend
January 26, 2022
Absolutely love books on serial killers and this book was one of the best
Well written and able get feeling of bring there.
Well written and able get feeling of bring there.
August 17, 2022
This shouldn't be boring 😩
February 3, 2023
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I am a massive fan of true crime books so I was delighted to be able to pick up a copy of London Serial Killers, I love picking up a new book on the topic and seeing a different perspective, as well as noting if there is anything new for me in the book.
I had read about most of the Serial Killers featured in the book but there were a few that were new to me and I loved finding out more about them. Serial Killers are fascinating to me, I have a passion for the psychological side of it all and what makes them tick and what drove them to commit the crimes.
I loved the layout for this book, the chapter length was great – plenty of detail and just long enough to speak an interest to enable you to read further around some of those mentioned if you have a wish to do so. It is easy to follow and it is a book that you can easily dip in and out of too and I loved the mix of well known, and little known killers written about.
It is 5 stars from me for this one – very highly recommended – I thought that it was a great read!!
I am a massive fan of true crime books so I was delighted to be able to pick up a copy of London Serial Killers, I love picking up a new book on the topic and seeing a different perspective, as well as noting if there is anything new for me in the book.
I had read about most of the Serial Killers featured in the book but there were a few that were new to me and I loved finding out more about them. Serial Killers are fascinating to me, I have a passion for the psychological side of it all and what makes them tick and what drove them to commit the crimes.
I loved the layout for this book, the chapter length was great – plenty of detail and just long enough to speak an interest to enable you to read further around some of those mentioned if you have a wish to do so. It is easy to follow and it is a book that you can easily dip in and out of too and I loved the mix of well known, and little known killers written about.
It is 5 stars from me for this one – very highly recommended – I thought that it was a great read!!
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April 2, 2026I received a free advanced copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
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I went into this book highly interested in the topic however I also went into it knowing I believe a fair bit about the topic already.
I was not shocked that it was a good read. I was happily surprised however over the fact that I learned a good deal of tidbits about various people that I did not previously know.
I suggest this book not only for readers new to the topic but also those who know a bit about the individuals discussed.
...
I went into this book highly interested in the topic however I also went into it knowing I believe a fair bit about the topic already.
I was not shocked that it was a good read. I was happily surprised however over the fact that I learned a good deal of tidbits about various people that I did not previously know.
I suggest this book not only for readers new to the topic but also those who know a bit about the individuals discussed.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews