The exploits of Depression-era homicidal sweethearts Bonnie and Clyde and the 1960s strangler who inspired the necktie murders in Alfred Hitchcocks Frenzy are among the true stories behind many of cinemas most famous crimes and criminals. Schechter, author of numerous books on serial killers, tracks the path from felony to film. Publishers Weekly
With this riveting compendium, true crime guru Schechter provides the ghoulish details behind 40 filmsSchechters expertise is such that three of his previous titles appear as works cited in this well-researched and gripping read. This fascinating look at the intersection of true crime and pop culture is a must. Library Journal (starred review)
Educational and engrossing, true-crime author Schechters latest (after Hells Princess, 2018) is a collection of essays that pull back the curtain on Hollywood to explain the real stories that inspired moviesfascinating, intriguing, and difficult to put down, Ripped from the Headlines! is a must for movie buffs and true crime fans alike. Booklist
In this fascinating survey, Schechter (Hells Princess: The Mystery of Belle Gunness, Butcher of Men) details the links between more than 40 movies and the real-life crimes that inspired themTrue crime fans and movie trivia buffs will devour this one like popcorn. Publishers Weekly
Schechter offers new insight on the classic crime movies of the 1930s and 1940s, many of which were sanitized because of stricter enforcement of 1930s Production Code after 1934, as well as customs of the timesThis treasure trove can also be enjoyed like an anthology. Each entry is a pithy gem of chilling details, adorned with folksy drawings of instruments of deathRipped from the Headlines! is inspiration for mystery writers everywhere, a primer in how to modify a true story for any writing market. It should go on a mystery writers reference book shelf, between Kenneth Angers Hollywood Babylon books (and [ their] follow-ups by other writers) and How To Write Mysteries. New City Lit
Harold Schechter has created a highly entertaining look at the real life stories behind many of Hollywoods crime films, beginning long before the current true crime boom. Schechter includes a huge number of films, including plenty of Golden Age film noirs, salacious pre-Hays Code thrillers, and modern day dramas. The description of the crimes themselves are necessarily sobering, and the contrast between film criticism and real life events is the tension from [ which] the book draws its strength. This will make you want to re-watch all your old favorites with a completely new perspective. CrimeReads
Explains how truth isnt just stranger than fictionits often far scarier. New York Daily News
Movie buffs and true-crime fans will find this an intriguing look at the truth behind the fiction. Ellery Queen Mystery Magazine
