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Talking with Serial Killers: Dead Men Talking: Death Row’s worst killers – in their own words
304 pages, Paperback
Published May 14, 2020
83 people are currently reading
842 people want to read
About the author
Christopher Berry-Dee
74 books340 followersChris was a former Royal Marine intelligence officer. He is now a criminologist who has interviewed over 30 serial killers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
January 7, 2022
Similar to the rest of Christopher Berry-Dee’s ‘Talking with…’ series, this book is filled with long complicated sentences and an array of spelling and grammatical errors.
John E Robinson - the most interesting part of this case was left until the end with the inclusion of Annabel Leigh’s correspondence with JR. Instead most of this chapter felt repetitive with JR’s nonsensical ramblings used as filler.
Melanie McGuire - Berry-Dee once again shows the importance of proof reading. With an array of grammatical errors - including changing of the victims name without any warning - this story read similarly to the last.
Phillip Jablonski - During this chapter, Berry-Dee ironically points out the amount of grammatical errors in Jablonski’s letters to him. Once again this chapter jumps around a lot. There’s little focus on the murders and the timeline is all over the place. The Jablonski story made me feel physically sick. Especially when he speaks of his son and how proud he is of him and the heinous crimes he’s committed.
Keith Jesperson - reading Keith’s letters actually made my skin crawl. I felt like there wasn’t really any focus on the “happy face” aspect of his murders despite this featuring in the chapter title. Berry-Dee seemed to take a bit too much of a liking to Jesperson with the way he boasted about reuniting him with his daughter after years of no contact. Maybe there’s a reason his daughter didn’t want to talk to her prolific serial killer of a father??
Viva LeRoy Nash - Berry-Dee doesn’t shy away from his fondness of Nash. Even though he states that he shouldn’t be glorifying a murderer he still goes on to talk about how he enjoyed corresponding with LeRoy. Like the other chapters of this book, LeRoy’s story was written messily. However, the inability to decipher fact from fiction made this a particularly difficult section to get through.
Michael Ross - The structure of this chapter was a lot more coherent than the previous sections. Reading about the other Death Row inmates actually brought me to tears, particularly the crimes of Ivo Colon.
Summary - the letters from Jesperson’s ex really should’ve been included in his chapter. It would’ve made his chapter a lot more interesting. Instead it just felt like the summary focused solely on him.
John E Robinson - the most interesting part of this case was left until the end with the inclusion of Annabel Leigh’s correspondence with JR. Instead most of this chapter felt repetitive with JR’s nonsensical ramblings used as filler.
Melanie McGuire - Berry-Dee once again shows the importance of proof reading. With an array of grammatical errors - including changing of the victims name without any warning - this story read similarly to the last.
Phillip Jablonski - During this chapter, Berry-Dee ironically points out the amount of grammatical errors in Jablonski’s letters to him. Once again this chapter jumps around a lot. There’s little focus on the murders and the timeline is all over the place. The Jablonski story made me feel physically sick. Especially when he speaks of his son and how proud he is of him and the heinous crimes he’s committed.
Keith Jesperson - reading Keith’s letters actually made my skin crawl. I felt like there wasn’t really any focus on the “happy face” aspect of his murders despite this featuring in the chapter title. Berry-Dee seemed to take a bit too much of a liking to Jesperson with the way he boasted about reuniting him with his daughter after years of no contact. Maybe there’s a reason his daughter didn’t want to talk to her prolific serial killer of a father??
Viva LeRoy Nash - Berry-Dee doesn’t shy away from his fondness of Nash. Even though he states that he shouldn’t be glorifying a murderer he still goes on to talk about how he enjoyed corresponding with LeRoy. Like the other chapters of this book, LeRoy’s story was written messily. However, the inability to decipher fact from fiction made this a particularly difficult section to get through.
Michael Ross - The structure of this chapter was a lot more coherent than the previous sections. Reading about the other Death Row inmates actually brought me to tears, particularly the crimes of Ivo Colon.
Summary - the letters from Jesperson’s ex really should’ve been included in his chapter. It would’ve made his chapter a lot more interesting. Instead it just felt like the summary focused solely on him.
December 17, 2023
Sensationalist, trashy and unprofessional is exactly why the Talking With Serial Killers series is one to avoid. Firstly, the basics. Titled 'Dead Men Talking' when one of the case studies focuses on a female perpetrator and having another case discuss an individual who has killed only one victim (rather than a minimum of two, as per FBI guidelines) are two basic mistakes that would have been spotted had this book been thoroughly edited to an acceptable standard.
Then we get to the writing itself. No professional working within the criminal justice system would use terms such as 'monsters' and 'homicidal maniacs' and expect to be taken seriously. These highly unethical descriptions would earn scorn and derision from experts and professional bodies alike, indeed, it gives a Daily-Mail-reader-esque quality (read: no quality) to the work which makes you cringe from second hand embarrassment. I work with offenders, with murderers, rapists and paedophiles; using any of the descriptors Christopher Berry Dee does to describe these individuals would earn me a disciplinary at the very least.
Unfortunately, his unprofessionalism doesn't stop when describing some of the poor victims of these murderers. Using 'hooker' rather than 'prostitute' or 'sex worker' is degrading and disgusting and not okay in the 21st century. Likewise, the obsessive focus on the physical appearance ofsome of the female victims is predictable and boring yet irritating all the same. Do we really need to know how attractive a victim is or can we just appreciate that she was a person, a human, first and foremost?
If you're looking for an insightful exploration into the mind's of serial killers, this is not it.
Then we get to the writing itself. No professional working within the criminal justice system would use terms such as 'monsters' and 'homicidal maniacs' and expect to be taken seriously. These highly unethical descriptions would earn scorn and derision from experts and professional bodies alike, indeed, it gives a Daily-Mail-reader-esque quality (read: no quality) to the work which makes you cringe from second hand embarrassment. I work with offenders, with murderers, rapists and paedophiles; using any of the descriptors Christopher Berry Dee does to describe these individuals would earn me a disciplinary at the very least.
Unfortunately, his unprofessionalism doesn't stop when describing some of the poor victims of these murderers. Using 'hooker' rather than 'prostitute' or 'sex worker' is degrading and disgusting and not okay in the 21st century. Likewise, the obsessive focus on the physical appearance ofsome of the female victims is predictable and boring yet irritating all the same. Do we really need to know how attractive a victim is or can we just appreciate that she was a person, a human, first and foremost?
If you're looking for an insightful exploration into the mind's of serial killers, this is not it.
September 17, 2021
I enjoyed this, the author's sarcastic narrative was very different from the norm.
This book is not for the faint hearted, it's graphic and gruesome in places when describing what the victims of these monsters went through. I've read a lot of true crime so you could say I'm "hardened" to much of the horrors, but even I found the insights into these murderous minds extremely chilling.
If you can handle it, it is a good read.
This book is not for the faint hearted, it's graphic and gruesome in places when describing what the victims of these monsters went through. I've read a lot of true crime so you could say I'm "hardened" to much of the horrors, but even I found the insights into these murderous minds extremely chilling.
If you can handle it, it is a good read.
June 1, 2024
some comments the author made regarding female victims felt highly misogynistic at times and there was a lot of grammatical errors throughout the book.
gave two stars as some of the insights were interesting.
gave two stars as some of the insights were interesting.
October 18, 2024
Interesting but the writing style gets repetitive after a while, also Melanie McGuire was neither a serial killer nor on death row? Seemed a bit random to include her
February 11, 2023
Morally, I struggled with determining my thoughts on this book.. whilst it didn’t glorify murder, it did focus on murderers stories, of which were extremely graphic and disturbing.
Why should we allow serial killers to share their story, when all we receive of the victims is their names?
This was the question that kept coming to mind throughout reading.
However, it was a captivating, easy read that at times offered a unique insight into how someone becomes a killer.
Why should we allow serial killers to share their story, when all we receive of the victims is their names?
This was the question that kept coming to mind throughout reading.
However, it was a captivating, easy read that at times offered a unique insight into how someone becomes a killer.
Read
December 17, 2024Fucking harrowing.
March 21, 2024
This book is very poorly written and is mainly a rehash of information already available with very little actual words directly from the inmates. It is also filled with Christopher Beery-Dee patting himself on the back for luring and tricking killers to spill information (that often turns out to be far more common smalltalk than he would like you to believe), or bragging about how well past works of his did. He puts into the readers head an idea of him drawing out new confessions and shocking confessions from these killers, which is often not the case. Even when it is, the information is poorly presented and easily missed.
The first case, John Edward Robinson, has 80 pages and of these, only about 1.5 page are actual letters the author obtained from the killer. Most of these are small talk or telling the Author to pay him for information/dismissing the author. Supposedly Berry-Dee received many pages worth of letters from Robinson, but also calls them "excruciating drivel" and therefor doesn't put it in THE BOOK ABOUT KILLERS IN THEIR OWN WORDS. Baffeling choice. The final scoop actually comes from Berry-Dee's colleague, Annabelle Leigh, when the author himself gives up.
Second case, Melanie Lyn Mcguire, is misplaced, as it is neither a serial killer (only killed one person) and isnt a "dead men talking" (since she is a woman). Therefore the case fits neither of the claims made in the title. It appears that this case was only included in this book to let the readers know that this "Femme Fatale" as Berry-Dee refers to her, was seductive and witty when writing him.
In the third case, Phillip Carl Jablonski, the writing gets even worse, with some sentences being barely readable nonsense. The author even ofhandedly victim blames Jablonski's wife for not reporting her rape to the police despite her already having seen how theyve handled prior cases of her husband's violence. This is very clearly the writing of a man who does not understand the rape culture of the time, and that Melinda Kimball was just as likely to be laughed at or doubted by the police as she was to receive protection.
In the case of Keith Hunter Jesperson, the author even goes so far as proudly present to the reader that he got the violent murderer and rapist back in touch with his daughter who *for some reason* has not written her father for years... gee, Berry-Dee, I wonder why she isnt such a fan of the man you yourself refer to as a monster.
For the fifth case, Viva Leroy Nash, the author goes as far as saying that this killer should not be on death row. By his own admission, the author "loves the old rascal to bits." I found Berry-Dee's obvious adoration of a (rather racist) killer who even escaped from prison just to go right back to robbing and killing, with no real sense of remorse, inappropriate.
The final case is by far his most cohesive chapter, with it actually being somwhat clear what sections he got through interviews and correspondence with the killer, Michael Bruce Ross. It seems like this chapter has recieved far more planning, contemplation and editing than all the rest. Perhaps instead of wasting far too many pages on cases were the author had little to add, this one could have been a greater portion of the book.
In summary, I found this book rushed, underedited, incoheisive and infuriating, as the author managed to make an interesting topic a chore to read. While its clear that Berry-Dee has vast knowledge on the subject and has gathered information unavailable elsewhere, he does such a poor job of communicating these to the reader, that you leave frustrated and disappointed which is a great shame.
The first case, John Edward Robinson, has 80 pages and of these, only about 1.5 page are actual letters the author obtained from the killer. Most of these are small talk or telling the Author to pay him for information/dismissing the author. Supposedly Berry-Dee received many pages worth of letters from Robinson, but also calls them "excruciating drivel" and therefor doesn't put it in THE BOOK ABOUT KILLERS IN THEIR OWN WORDS. Baffeling choice. The final scoop actually comes from Berry-Dee's colleague, Annabelle Leigh, when the author himself gives up.
Second case, Melanie Lyn Mcguire, is misplaced, as it is neither a serial killer (only killed one person) and isnt a "dead men talking" (since she is a woman). Therefore the case fits neither of the claims made in the title. It appears that this case was only included in this book to let the readers know that this "Femme Fatale" as Berry-Dee refers to her, was seductive and witty when writing him.
In the third case, Phillip Carl Jablonski, the writing gets even worse, with some sentences being barely readable nonsense. The author even ofhandedly victim blames Jablonski's wife for not reporting her rape to the police despite her already having seen how theyve handled prior cases of her husband's violence. This is very clearly the writing of a man who does not understand the rape culture of the time, and that Melinda Kimball was just as likely to be laughed at or doubted by the police as she was to receive protection.
In the case of Keith Hunter Jesperson, the author even goes so far as proudly present to the reader that he got the violent murderer and rapist back in touch with his daughter who *for some reason* has not written her father for years... gee, Berry-Dee, I wonder why she isnt such a fan of the man you yourself refer to as a monster.
For the fifth case, Viva Leroy Nash, the author goes as far as saying that this killer should not be on death row. By his own admission, the author "loves the old rascal to bits." I found Berry-Dee's obvious adoration of a (rather racist) killer who even escaped from prison just to go right back to robbing and killing, with no real sense of remorse, inappropriate.
The final case is by far his most cohesive chapter, with it actually being somwhat clear what sections he got through interviews and correspondence with the killer, Michael Bruce Ross. It seems like this chapter has recieved far more planning, contemplation and editing than all the rest. Perhaps instead of wasting far too many pages on cases were the author had little to add, this one could have been a greater portion of the book.
In summary, I found this book rushed, underedited, incoheisive and infuriating, as the author managed to make an interesting topic a chore to read. While its clear that Berry-Dee has vast knowledge on the subject and has gathered information unavailable elsewhere, he does such a poor job of communicating these to the reader, that you leave frustrated and disappointed which is a great shame.
February 12, 2021
Starting with the introduction, Berry-Dee gripped me with his blunt and straightforward language. Surely the way to this Dutch Blogger’s heart. It suggests that the author will not shy away from calling them as he sees it. The killers have committed heinous crimes that cannot stand the light of day, and Berry-Dee is going to tell you all about them.
Sadly, this does extend past the introduction. From the first chapter onwards, the language suggests the author is more concerned with instilling a sense of awe and reference in the reader. Exploring the stories and psyche of the Serial Killers which ought to be paramount, takes a back seat to exposing the many great and wonderful deeds of Berry-Dee. This is not to diminish the countless hours, the blood, sweat and tears that have gone into communicating with these shadowy figures. However, humility would have been a far better suit in this instance.
The readability is further hampered by the fact that the book is rife with spelling and grammatical errors. Surely a former Editor-in-Chief, if not the publisher, should have noticed these. And don’t get me started on the overused and tired comparisons the author seems so fond of using.
‘Some of these social strays can read and write, while others struggle with the simplest words. Some have a brain, others half a brain, and still others obviously have a ‘To Let’ sign planted firmly inside their skull.’
In just shy of 300 pages, the above was used no less than three times.
Additionally, there seems to have been little thought wasted on the structure and flow of the stories. Jumping from early childhood memories to court-case highlights and ending with more boastful statements by the author without rhyme or reason.
Interestingly the chapter about Viva Leroy Nash provided some insight into the author’s state of mind, whether intended or not. Alluding to his affinity for the ‘old-time crook’ and his wistful recalling of the glory days of crimes gone past. When gunslingers were gentlemen, moonshine was currency and gangers governed the way of life. It certainly suggests Berry Dee may have envisioned himself as one of the glory day gangsters, forced to settle for the life of an author as he was sadly born out of time.
Finally, the choice was made to add in some visual items aids such as pictures of letters received by the author and portraits of the Serial Killers. The thing that is so frustrating, is that they were plopped smack-bang in the middle of the book. Destroying any opportunity of enhancing and supporting the stories. Leaving the reader to constantly leaf back and forth between the pictures and the individuals they related to.
For me the only redeeming factor where the letters written by the Serial Killers themselves. They provided a window into their perverted and sick minds which was at the very least mildly interesting. The sad fact is though that they only account for roughly 10% of the book.
Everything considered I would not recommend reading the book. If you are interested in these Serial Killers, their Wikipedia pages will offer a much more thrilling read. There is also a host of interesting podcasts out there, such as Serial Killers and Unsolved murder by Parcast. Which offer you the same information, without the author’s inflated sense of self.
Sadly, this does extend past the introduction. From the first chapter onwards, the language suggests the author is more concerned with instilling a sense of awe and reference in the reader. Exploring the stories and psyche of the Serial Killers which ought to be paramount, takes a back seat to exposing the many great and wonderful deeds of Berry-Dee. This is not to diminish the countless hours, the blood, sweat and tears that have gone into communicating with these shadowy figures. However, humility would have been a far better suit in this instance.
The readability is further hampered by the fact that the book is rife with spelling and grammatical errors. Surely a former Editor-in-Chief, if not the publisher, should have noticed these. And don’t get me started on the overused and tired comparisons the author seems so fond of using.
‘Some of these social strays can read and write, while others struggle with the simplest words. Some have a brain, others half a brain, and still others obviously have a ‘To Let’ sign planted firmly inside their skull.’
In just shy of 300 pages, the above was used no less than three times.
Additionally, there seems to have been little thought wasted on the structure and flow of the stories. Jumping from early childhood memories to court-case highlights and ending with more boastful statements by the author without rhyme or reason.
Interestingly the chapter about Viva Leroy Nash provided some insight into the author’s state of mind, whether intended or not. Alluding to his affinity for the ‘old-time crook’ and his wistful recalling of the glory days of crimes gone past. When gunslingers were gentlemen, moonshine was currency and gangers governed the way of life. It certainly suggests Berry Dee may have envisioned himself as one of the glory day gangsters, forced to settle for the life of an author as he was sadly born out of time.
Finally, the choice was made to add in some visual items aids such as pictures of letters received by the author and portraits of the Serial Killers. The thing that is so frustrating, is that they were plopped smack-bang in the middle of the book. Destroying any opportunity of enhancing and supporting the stories. Leaving the reader to constantly leaf back and forth between the pictures and the individuals they related to.
For me the only redeeming factor where the letters written by the Serial Killers themselves. They provided a window into their perverted and sick minds which was at the very least mildly interesting. The sad fact is though that they only account for roughly 10% of the book.
Everything considered I would not recommend reading the book. If you are interested in these Serial Killers, their Wikipedia pages will offer a much more thrilling read. There is also a host of interesting podcasts out there, such as Serial Killers and Unsolved murder by Parcast. Which offer you the same information, without the author’s inflated sense of self.
March 22, 2024
Obviously this book was deeply disturbing. I appreciated the author having these difficult conversations with these criminals so that, as someone who appreciates abnormal psychology, I could get an inside scoop on their completely messed up and traumatized brains. However, this author writes so poorly. The criminals that wrote him letters write better than he does. The spelling, punctuation, and grammatical errors throughout this book are embarrassing, disappointing, and actually made me mad. How did this guy get published? How is he successful as a writer? I could write a book better. Also, if one of these serial rapists and murderers were to get loose, they would come for him first. He practically makes fun of and mocks these dangerous people. His writing is so unprofessional. This book just sucked. I don’t know how this guy is successful in his profession. He should just stick to criminology and drop the writing. I understand now why it was only $6 at Books A Million. I will not waste my time reading any of his other books.
May 8, 2024
really hard to believe this dude is a professional
June 9, 2024
As a person unterested in true crime, I obviously liked this book.
This book looked at 6 murderers and their stories, adding in comentary from the murderers themselves.
One issue I had is that name of the book is "Talking with serial killers", but the second mentioned person had murdered only once. It was an interesting read and a brutal murder, but I am sure this could have been swaped out into a different book.
This book looked at 6 murderers and their stories, adding in comentary from the murderers themselves.
One issue I had is that name of the book is "Talking with serial killers", but the second mentioned person had murdered only once. It was an interesting read and a brutal murder, but I am sure this could have been swaped out into a different book.
September 29, 2021
One thing that bugged me was the title… dead men talking when in fact one of the accounts is from a woman. Book was interesting as you got the crime directly from the viewpoint of the murderers and how they saw things and in most cases the lack of any compassion or guilt.
Didn’t go into too much description of the murders thankfully, half the interviews I knew well of the crimes they committed but others never heard off.
Well written with some dry humour from the author who must have been traumatised by what he learnt from his interviews with them as he openly admits some of their accounts are too graphic to mention.
Didn’t go into too much description of the murders thankfully, half the interviews I knew well of the crimes they committed but others never heard off.
Well written with some dry humour from the author who must have been traumatised by what he learnt from his interviews with them as he openly admits some of their accounts are too graphic to mention.
March 19, 2023
Disturbing as it recounts true stories of serial killers which is very interesting at the same time. However the change from one story to another is not to my liking as it is often too abrupt.
August 20, 2024
Interesting subject matter. The narrative often comes across as convoluted and the timelines aren’t always linear. Several spelling and grammatical errors.
September 28, 2024
Interesting read
January 5, 2023
Where my true crime nerds at?! This one’s for you 🙌
Let me tell you, I gripped through
every page. I have this wild fascination with true crime, psychology & the complexity of the brain.
I just need to know why people do the things they do, what shifts in their brain, how does the brain respond , etc , etc. I’m sure you guys get the point.
This particular read holds personal accounts of 5 serial killers, those with the most twisted & unfathomable minds.
I’ve always been interested in the psychology behind nature vs. nurture. Some kids grow up shaped by circumstances & trauma only to turn to life of crime (nurture). While others, well some are just born evil (nature).
Serial killers show lack of empathy to others , & no remorse for their crimes committed. I try my hardest to understand what prompts these killers to do the things they do, but alas - my brain can’t simply wrap around it.
I highly recommend this book for those who are crime junkies !
Let me tell you, I gripped through
every page. I have this wild fascination with true crime, psychology & the complexity of the brain.
I just need to know why people do the things they do, what shifts in their brain, how does the brain respond , etc , etc. I’m sure you guys get the point.
This particular read holds personal accounts of 5 serial killers, those with the most twisted & unfathomable minds.
I’ve always been interested in the psychology behind nature vs. nurture. Some kids grow up shaped by circumstances & trauma only to turn to life of crime (nurture). While others, well some are just born evil (nature).
Serial killers show lack of empathy to others , & no remorse for their crimes committed. I try my hardest to understand what prompts these killers to do the things they do, but alas - my brain can’t simply wrap around it.
I highly recommend this book for those who are crime junkies !
June 11, 2023
Book 31 - paperback - finished: 3rd March
🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟
Talking With Serial Killers by Christopher Berry-Dee
I’m not sure why I add to my biggest fear but here we are. I genuinely had a nightmare after reading the chapter about Keith Jesperson and considered calling my mum at 3am.
This was really interesting. The serial killers in this book aren’t ones I’ve ever heard of and I found it really interesting that the author included letters that they had written in order to share their own story or version of events. I’m glad the the author picked these letters apart because, it’ll be no shock, most of these men were lying.
There are parts of this book which are really quite upsetting especially with the descriptions of the murders. I was more interested in the psychology of the men in the book and why they had taken such a dark turn but this didn’t offer as much of that as I’d have liked.
I’ve given it 4 🌟 because the chapters jump from modern day to different years which can be somewhat confusing and I think I’d have preferred a more chronological approach
Overall, really interesting but equally disturbing.
🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟
Talking With Serial Killers by Christopher Berry-Dee
I’m not sure why I add to my biggest fear but here we are. I genuinely had a nightmare after reading the chapter about Keith Jesperson and considered calling my mum at 3am.
This was really interesting. The serial killers in this book aren’t ones I’ve ever heard of and I found it really interesting that the author included letters that they had written in order to share their own story or version of events. I’m glad the the author picked these letters apart because, it’ll be no shock, most of these men were lying.
There are parts of this book which are really quite upsetting especially with the descriptions of the murders. I was more interested in the psychology of the men in the book and why they had taken such a dark turn but this didn’t offer as much of that as I’d have liked.
I’ve given it 4 🌟 because the chapters jump from modern day to different years which can be somewhat confusing and I think I’d have preferred a more chronological approach
Overall, really interesting but equally disturbing.
June 5, 2023
This is some rough stuff. I do not recommend if you react negatively to sexual abuse and child abuse. This is correspondence direct from the convicted, unedited.
This is real stuff. Scary shit. A glimpse into the mind of serial killer. The selected are based cases that show behavioral patterns.
This is real stuff. Scary shit. A glimpse into the mind of serial killer. The selected are based cases that show behavioral patterns.
January 25, 2024
Christopher Berry Dee has done it again! Take a dive into this book if you love true crime. Brilliant read with some of the gruesome and horrific crimes committed by killers such as Keith Hunter Jesperson & Micheal Bruce Ross.
June 30, 2023
Interesting, but he desperately needs to fire his editor
December 10, 2020
I think I have just fallen in love with reading true-crime. I have actually tried watching true-crime documentaries, but I just couldn’t get into it. Reading about it though, wow! It’s completely different experience. This was the perfect book to introduce me to the genre and I can safely say that I will definitely be buying some of the author’s other books as well as reading other true-crime books.
Christopher Berry-Dee is a well-known criminologist and crime expert. He has corresponded and met with many infamous murderers and serial killers.
He has published several books on the topic, varying from talking with psychopaths to talking with serial killers and stalkers. Whether you are a seasoned true-crime reader and fan or if you are deciding on whether you should delve into the genre, this book will keep you hooked. Be warned it can be very graphic and detailed.
The book features written correspondence from 6 of the world’s most dangerous convicted killers on death row. One of them already having been executed via lethal injection in 2005, but the author had been corresponding and had even met with him in person before this happened. There are detailed accounts of their crimes told by the perpetrators themselves, told in their own words.
I have always been fascinated by death and things that are dark, which is why I am so interested in books about forensic pathology. I loved that there’s a section with some pictures of these killers as well as some pictures of the correspondence.
Being a medical professional, my training included rotating through psychiatry and learning about different personality disorders. One of them features prominently in this book, namely antisocial personality disorder (they typically exhibit behaviour such as lying, disregard for their own and safety of others, they can often be found torturing animals as children). Of course, not all murderers have this trait, but it is more common in serial killers.
Most of these killers, don’t take responsibility for their own reactions and show no remorse for their actions. They transfer blame to their victims, making it seem as though it was the victim’s fault that they were murdered. There is also a common pattern of an abusive or dysfunctional home environment as they were growing up.
A question that many people ask is what does a serial killer look like? The answer to that question is that they look just like anyone else, they are usually unsuspecting and that’s what makes them dangerous.
Another aspect of the book that I found extremely interesting was the amount of people, mostly females who are interested in pursuing relationships with these killers. It absolutely boggles my mind. But then again, I have a fascination with death, especially unnatural and gruesome deaths which others may find strange. But then as they say, different strokes… I would highly recommend this spine-chilling book.
Disclaimer: I was sent this free copy for review by Jonathan Ball Publishers. This does not influence my review or rating in any way. All views and opinions expressed are my own.
Christopher Berry-Dee is a well-known criminologist and crime expert. He has corresponded and met with many infamous murderers and serial killers.
He has published several books on the topic, varying from talking with psychopaths to talking with serial killers and stalkers. Whether you are a seasoned true-crime reader and fan or if you are deciding on whether you should delve into the genre, this book will keep you hooked. Be warned it can be very graphic and detailed.
The book features written correspondence from 6 of the world’s most dangerous convicted killers on death row. One of them already having been executed via lethal injection in 2005, but the author had been corresponding and had even met with him in person before this happened. There are detailed accounts of their crimes told by the perpetrators themselves, told in their own words.
I have always been fascinated by death and things that are dark, which is why I am so interested in books about forensic pathology. I loved that there’s a section with some pictures of these killers as well as some pictures of the correspondence.
Being a medical professional, my training included rotating through psychiatry and learning about different personality disorders. One of them features prominently in this book, namely antisocial personality disorder (they typically exhibit behaviour such as lying, disregard for their own and safety of others, they can often be found torturing animals as children). Of course, not all murderers have this trait, but it is more common in serial killers.
Most of these killers, don’t take responsibility for their own reactions and show no remorse for their actions. They transfer blame to their victims, making it seem as though it was the victim’s fault that they were murdered. There is also a common pattern of an abusive or dysfunctional home environment as they were growing up.
A question that many people ask is what does a serial killer look like? The answer to that question is that they look just like anyone else, they are usually unsuspecting and that’s what makes them dangerous.
Another aspect of the book that I found extremely interesting was the amount of people, mostly females who are interested in pursuing relationships with these killers. It absolutely boggles my mind. But then again, I have a fascination with death, especially unnatural and gruesome deaths which others may find strange. But then as they say, different strokes… I would highly recommend this spine-chilling book.
Disclaimer: I was sent this free copy for review by Jonathan Ball Publishers. This does not influence my review or rating in any way. All views and opinions expressed are my own.
August 15, 2021
Nie jest tajemnicą, że zarówno do książek o tej tematyce jak i do tej konkretnej serii, pomimo tego że ma słabsze momenty mam słabość, bo to po prostu są moje tematy, ale nie o tym ma być recenzja, bo im mniej wiecie tym krótsze będą Wasze zeznania.
W tej części zdecydowanie podobały mi się dłuższe wstawki listów czy wypowiedzi osadzonych w celach śmierci. W kilku poprzednich częściach bardzo tego brakowało, jednak tu mamy solidną dawkę zwierzeń rasowych zwyroli. Co najważniejsze te listy są bez cenzury, są surowe, bezwględna i chore są po prostu…niemiłe..
Co dla mnie nie do końca zagrało to dobór „bohaterów” tej książki, bo większość jest nieciekawa i w zasadzie jakkolwiek to zabrzmi nie zasłużyła żeby poświęcać im czas. W zasadzie dla mnie tylko dwójka morderców była na tyle konkretna, że warto o nich pisać pierwszy to John Edward Robinson, postać absolutnie fascynująca zarówno na poziomie psychologicznym jak i sposobie działania. Można po krótce powiedzieć, że Robinson zrobił z rynkiem matrymonialnym dokładnie to samo co swego czasu Jordan Belfort z giełdą, co prawda finał obu spotkał podobny, ale co sobie chłopaki poużywali tego im nikt nie zabierze. Druga postać to Phillip Carl Jablonski zwyrol dość powszechnie znany, jednak tutaj autor nie poświęcił mu zbyt wiele uwagi, a wręcz tylko lekko go scharakteryzował bez głębszych analiz czy szczegółów, a zdecydowanie szkoda bo jest to postać do szpiku kości zła.
Drogie Panie pisze do tych niemiłych harpi (bo te mile to wiadomo lubię, szanuję, poważam i tak dalej…), do tych miłych bym tak nie pisał, zwłaszcza Wy przeczytajcie tę książkę i docenicie swoich domowych samców alfa i zobaczycie na jakich porypańców mogłyście trafić. Po przeczytaniu od razu docenicie swoich domowych gentlemanów i już nawet dziabnięcie Żuberka pod Waszą suchą pieczeń nie będzie Wam przeszkadzać. Taka jest moja prawda jakem @mad.book.worm pierwszy oby dla dobra świata ostatni.
https://www.instagram.com/mad.book.worm/
W tej części zdecydowanie podobały mi się dłuższe wstawki listów czy wypowiedzi osadzonych w celach śmierci. W kilku poprzednich częściach bardzo tego brakowało, jednak tu mamy solidną dawkę zwierzeń rasowych zwyroli. Co najważniejsze te listy są bez cenzury, są surowe, bezwględna i chore są po prostu…niemiłe..
Co dla mnie nie do końca zagrało to dobór „bohaterów” tej książki, bo większość jest nieciekawa i w zasadzie jakkolwiek to zabrzmi nie zasłużyła żeby poświęcać im czas. W zasadzie dla mnie tylko dwójka morderców była na tyle konkretna, że warto o nich pisać pierwszy to John Edward Robinson, postać absolutnie fascynująca zarówno na poziomie psychologicznym jak i sposobie działania. Można po krótce powiedzieć, że Robinson zrobił z rynkiem matrymonialnym dokładnie to samo co swego czasu Jordan Belfort z giełdą, co prawda finał obu spotkał podobny, ale co sobie chłopaki poużywali tego im nikt nie zabierze. Druga postać to Phillip Carl Jablonski zwyrol dość powszechnie znany, jednak tutaj autor nie poświęcił mu zbyt wiele uwagi, a wręcz tylko lekko go scharakteryzował bez głębszych analiz czy szczegółów, a zdecydowanie szkoda bo jest to postać do szpiku kości zła.
Drogie Panie pisze do tych niemiłych harpi (bo te mile to wiadomo lubię, szanuję, poważam i tak dalej…), do tych miłych bym tak nie pisał, zwłaszcza Wy przeczytajcie tę książkę i docenicie swoich domowych samców alfa i zobaczycie na jakich porypańców mogłyście trafić. Po przeczytaniu od razu docenicie swoich domowych gentlemanów i już nawet dziabnięcie Żuberka pod Waszą suchą pieczeń nie będzie Wam przeszkadzać. Taka jest moja prawda jakem @mad.book.worm pierwszy oby dla dobra świata ostatni.
https://www.instagram.com/mad.book.worm/
March 26, 2023
Leading crime expert Christopher Berry-Dee gained the trust of some of the most infamous convicted killers, having corresponded with them and even entered their prison lairs to discuss their horrific crimes in detail. In this book, he presents six unforgettable prisoners and allows them to tell their stories, as well as giving the details and background of their terrifying cases - making this a must-read for aficionados of the genre and anyone fascinated by the extremes of human behaviour.
Beyond the headlines, once the drama of the courtroom has subsided and the prison gates have been locked behind these killers for good, Talking With Serial Killers: Dead Men Talking allows the reader to get up close and personal with torturers, sexual psychopaths and mass murderers, to read the stories that are rarely heard and get the last word from some of the world's most pitiless killers.
—
My thoughts (with some spoilers):
Berry-Dee’s correspondence with five killers on death row is a fascinating insight into some seriously scary and dangerous people. I didn’t find that the stories glorified murder but it did focus on the actual murders and not so much the victims. But be warned, these stories are seriously graphic. However, if you read/listen/watch a lot of true crimes you probably won’t bat an eyelid at the stories.
Berry-Dee’s writing was refreshing with its sarcastic narrative ways. It is always interesting to hear the stories straight from the murderers mouth, even when we all know they are lying and won’t admit the truth. These killers have a complete lack of compassion and have no guilt whatsoever. The killers covered in this book aren’t particularly well known (unless you devour a lot of true crime) so it is always nice to read about someone different. I would have liked more of the psychology behind why these people became killers as I do find that absolutely fascinating. But, overall this book is an easy read.
—
My thoughts (with some spoilers):
Berry-Dee’s correspondence with five killers on death row is a fascinating insight into some seriously scary and dangerous people. I didn’t find that the stories glorified murder but it did focus on the actual murders and not so much the victims. But be warned, these stories are seriously graphic. However, if you read/listen/watch a lot of true crimes you probably won’t bat an eyelid at the stories.
Berry-Dee’s writing was refreshing with its sarcastic narrative ways. It is always interesting to hear the stories straight from the murderers mouth, even when we all know they are lying and won’t admit the truth. These killers have a complete lack of compassion and have no guilt whatsoever. The killers covered in this book aren’t particularly well known (unless you devour a lot of true crime) so it is always nice to read about someone different. I would have liked more of the psychology behind why these people became killers as I do find that absolutely fascinating. But, overall this book is an easy read.
October 2, 2020
Interesting: I really did enjoy reading these six stories and the killers' own words, as well as the words of others that contribute a lot to the understanding of these people and how they tick. I've already lined up another of this author's books to read, I enjoy seeing how a sociopath/psychopath can talk about their damnation and imprisonment, and explain away what they do.
Of course, I'm pretty sympathetic at times - there are moments I have imaginings of my own, taking a machine gun in the Orthopedics department and letting loose for their neglect of me, but that's all they are: thoughts I have because of pain and their inability to even diagnose the issue (I had to do that myself, and am now in less pain and less inclined to homicide, though those thoughts were very real when I had them). I'm sure such imaginings are not simply me and serial killers, many of us feel like murder at times. Committing it is something else. A fleeting thought of anger and misery is another altogether!
None of these killers were very well known to me, but after reading through their words and bios, I have seen documentaries about a few of them, but reading this book is very different as it brings home the crimes, their human destruction, and the consequences, plus we hear the chilling words of people who, if given the chance, would do it all again.
Well-written, impartial, interesting and well-researched, this book is definitely a fantastic read x
Of course, I'm pretty sympathetic at times - there are moments I have imaginings of my own, taking a machine gun in the Orthopedics department and letting loose for their neglect of me, but that's all they are: thoughts I have because of pain and their inability to even diagnose the issue (I had to do that myself, and am now in less pain and less inclined to homicide, though those thoughts were very real when I had them). I'm sure such imaginings are not simply me and serial killers, many of us feel like murder at times. Committing it is something else. A fleeting thought of anger and misery is another altogether!
None of these killers were very well known to me, but after reading through their words and bios, I have seen documentaries about a few of them, but reading this book is very different as it brings home the crimes, their human destruction, and the consequences, plus we hear the chilling words of people who, if given the chance, would do it all again.
Well-written, impartial, interesting and well-researched, this book is definitely a fantastic read x
August 11, 2023
The sarcasm of the writer was refreshing. The book was filled with long complicated sentences with spelling and grammatical errors. There are also overused comparisons and metaphors the author seemed to use more than once.
There are some pictures of the killers and letters received by the author, which was interesting, but these were placed in the middle of the book, frustratingly. This meant we saw images of killers we hadn't even read about yet and had to flip back and forth between pictures and chapters. It would have been better if they were added to the corresponding chapters.
John E Robinson - most of the chapter felt repetitive with the same points and the most interesting part was left till the end, chapter was longer than needed.
Melanie McGuire - last letter was way longer than needed to be, he could have used the best parts of it. She also wasn't a serial killer, rather a murderer. The title dead 'men' talking felt out of place considering Melanie was a female.
Phillip Jablonski - this chapter was short - total of 16 pages long - with quotes and sections being cut because of how gruesome they were. Felt a bit pointless to include him in the book.
Keith Jesperson - probably the best chapter so far with a good balance of murderer letters/quotes and author analysis and input.
Viva LeRoy Nash - it was hard to tell between what was fact or fiction so this chapter was a little confusing and inconclusive.
Michael Ross - this was also a good chapter with balanced sections. The inserts of the other kills on death row with were also a good addition.
The letter from Keith Jesperson’s ex fiance should have been put in his chapter. Felt like the summary was based on him.
There are some pictures of the killers and letters received by the author, which was interesting, but these were placed in the middle of the book, frustratingly. This meant we saw images of killers we hadn't even read about yet and had to flip back and forth between pictures and chapters. It would have been better if they were added to the corresponding chapters.
John E Robinson - most of the chapter felt repetitive with the same points and the most interesting part was left till the end, chapter was longer than needed.
Melanie McGuire - last letter was way longer than needed to be, he could have used the best parts of it. She also wasn't a serial killer, rather a murderer. The title dead 'men' talking felt out of place considering Melanie was a female.
Phillip Jablonski - this chapter was short - total of 16 pages long - with quotes and sections being cut because of how gruesome they were. Felt a bit pointless to include him in the book.
Keith Jesperson - probably the best chapter so far with a good balance of murderer letters/quotes and author analysis and input.
Viva LeRoy Nash - it was hard to tell between what was fact or fiction so this chapter was a little confusing and inconclusive.
Michael Ross - this was also a good chapter with balanced sections. The inserts of the other kills on death row with were also a good addition.
The letter from Keith Jesperson’s ex fiance should have been put in his chapter. Felt like the summary was based on him.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 4, 2025
Very strange but interesting read. The authors style is extremely informal, and very subjective in his conclusions and findings. The book is informative of these killers upbringing and history of their crimes, however, the conclusion of each killer is subjective and doesn't exactly provide any answers to any questions. It is more the story of these killers, and then the authors opinions on these them and their acts. Therefore, I found it a confusing read as to if I'm (as the reader) suppost to be in support or abhorrence of these killers and their criminal acts. Though informative and insightful into the workings of the killers mindsets and outlooks on their crimes [through their quoted correspondence with the author] the whole set up of the book is not what I was expecting of a criminological book about 'serial killers'. Furthermore, some of the killers used within the book, as a criminology student, I would not class as serial killers, but instead as just murderers.
I wouldn't say I disliked the book, just that it was extremely informal, subjective, and not what I was expecting.
I wouldn't say I disliked the book, just that it was extremely informal, subjective, and not what I was expecting.
June 8, 2023
Decent enough book - what's refreshing is that (for me) it's unknown killers rather than rehashing the same old, same old. These are cases I was unaware of.
However, the book is let down by some terrible typos. In one chapter, one of the victims is William "Bill" Maguire. But at some point, Berry-Dee refers to him as Jim, even though Jim was a completely different person.
That would have been spotted straight away with some proof reading!
One other thing that irked me slightly was one of the chapters didn't really feature any text from the killer at all... so the strapline of "Death Row's worst killers in their own words" doesn't really fit there.
I've read most of Christopher's books but this one irritated me with the writing style at times, where he refers to people as "punk" or "motherfucker".
Mate, you're a 75 year old white British dude, not Dirty Harry.
However, the book is let down by some terrible typos. In one chapter, one of the victims is William "Bill" Maguire. But at some point, Berry-Dee refers to him as Jim, even though Jim was a completely different person.
That would have been spotted straight away with some proof reading!
One other thing that irked me slightly was one of the chapters didn't really feature any text from the killer at all... so the strapline of "Death Row's worst killers in their own words" doesn't really fit there.
I've read most of Christopher's books but this one irritated me with the writing style at times, where he refers to people as "punk" or "motherfucker".
Mate, you're a 75 year old white British dude, not Dirty Harry.
October 7, 2023
I love true crime. I've, like so many, find it relaxing and interesting.
I've been watching it for years!!
Never have I ever read any books about it though and although I enjoyed this book which I was recommended and had to dust off, it was lacking something.
I know in true crime, their are some pretty disturbing things that happen, this was censored.
I also felt that the author added too many words, like we don't need complex wording to describe what's happening.
We want the guts and gore. we're all morbidly curious and are fascinated by this...
Also the title is slightly misleading when the 3rd chapter is not only a woman and not a dead woman talking, but she killed her husband. 1 person... that is not the making of a serial killer.
I've been watching it for years!!
Never have I ever read any books about it though and although I enjoyed this book which I was recommended and had to dust off, it was lacking something.
I know in true crime, their are some pretty disturbing things that happen, this was censored.
I also felt that the author added too many words, like we don't need complex wording to describe what's happening.
We want the guts and gore. we're all morbidly curious and are fascinated by this...
Also the title is slightly misleading when the 3rd chapter is not only a woman and not a dead woman talking, but she killed her husband. 1 person... that is not the making of a serial killer.
May 26, 2021
The amount of errors in this book is shocking. Loads of grammatical slips and on page 145 it efers to a passage that Keith said to a journo then underneath it says its from a letter to the author?!
Its lazy, there are pages and pages of whole letters from the killers. Very little analysis. The author boasts about passing his work to the FBI & reacquaint a daughter with her serial killer father, is that a good thing?!
Its lazy, there are pages and pages of whole letters from the killers. Very little analysis. The author boasts about passing his work to the FBI & reacquaint a daughter with her serial killer father, is that a good thing?!
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