The Book of Murder: A Prosecutor's Journey Through Love and Death
4.7 4.7 out of 5 stars | 301 ratings
Price: 29.66
Last update: 12-21-2024
About this item
Examining murder from an insider’s perspective, Matt Murphy—a former senior deputy district attorney and current ABC News legal analyst—discusses cases from his career, how they strained his personal life, and how he found peace seeking justice for victims and their families.
Part taxonomy of murder, part prosecutor’s handbook, and part personal memoir, The Book of Murder goes through a dozen cases and his recollections of his 26 years in the Orange County DA’s office (17 in the Homicide Unit). Refreshingly honest about the toll such work takes on one’s private life, Murphy weaves his personal narrative throughout his casework in a way that humanizes the people entrusted with the duty of seeking justice on behalf of the public. As he does so, he lays bare the decision-making a prosecutor goes through in building a case to ensure justice is met while telling captivating tale after captivating tale of the world’s worst crime.
See how a prosecutor looks at—and lives with—the very worst crime. The insider’s perspective that Murphy gives on the notorious cases of Skylar Deleon, Rodney Alcala, “Dirty John” Meehan, and many others is a vital listen for true-crime fans everywhere.
Top reviews from the United States
5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent tome from a prolific prosecutor
While I was already familiar with all of the cases he recounted in this book, it was still fascinating to read the facts and tenor of the proceedings from his unique perspective. I also enjoyed reading the few personal stories he included which really illustrates the fact that he sacrificed a personal life for a prolific professional life. This sacrifice led to justice for the many victims' grateful families they may not have otherwise even seen.
The cases Matt highlighted were extraordinary but we know that there were also many, many more than just those cases that Matt has prosecuted (and won) over his career. If he decided to write another book, I would most definitely read it.
Matt was very deliberate in crediting others that assisted him in his many successes and for drawing attention to some of the unsung heroes in these sensational murder convictions. I also was pleasantly surprised to note a few people in his acknowledgments that I know personally.
If you have any interest in "true crime" or prosecutorial process or even just Orange County - grab this book!
5.0 out of 5 stars Just read it
4.0 out of 5 stars True Crime with a Side of Wit and Charm
However, Murphy’s reflections on his intimate relationships occasionally distracted from the otherwise compelling narrative.
Overall, it is an exceptional read for true crime enthusiasts who appreciate a blend of depth, humor, and humanity in their stories.
Reviewed in the United States on November 16, 2024
However, Murphy’s reflections on his intimate relationships occasionally distracted from the otherwise compelling narrative.
Overall, it is an exceptional read for true crime enthusiasts who appreciate a blend of depth, humor, and humanity in their stories.
5.0 out of 5 stars Great Book, Good Man
5.0 out of 5 stars WOW-Couldn't put down
5.0 out of 5 stars You won’t want to put it down. It’s that good!
Reviewed in the United States on October 11, 2024
5.0 out of 5 stars Great read
5.0 out of 5 stars More than just murders. Loving it!
Murphy is a natural writer who delves thoughtfully and deeply into the many themes surrounding the intricacies of living in a world of crime, catching and dealing with criminals, their victims especially, and the effects a career such as this has on a serious and dedicated prosecutor.
I purchased a hard copy for a friend as a gift and got the audio for myself. It is also extremely well narrated. Highly recommend.