Which are the best books by Gregg Olsen?
Gregg Olsen is an American author known for his true crime books and suspenseful thrillers. He was born on March 5, 1959, in Seattle, Washington. Olsen began his writing career as a journalist, working for various newspapers and media outlets.
In the early 2000s, Olsen shifted his focus to writing true crime books, often based on real-life murder cases. Some of his notable works in this genre include “Abandoned Prayers,” “A Twisted Faith,” and “If I Can’t Have You.”
These books delve into the details of high-profile criminal cases, examining the motives and actions of the individuals involved.
Apart from true crime, Olsen has also written fiction novels, particularly in the thriller and mystery genres. His fictional works include “The Girl in the Woods,” “A Cold Dark Place,” and “The Last Thing She Ever Did.”
These novels often feature gripping plots, complex characters, and suspenseful storytelling.
Gregg Olsen’s writing style is known for its attention to detail, meticulous research, and ability to capture the reader’s interest. He has received critical acclaim for his work and has been recognized with awards and nominations in the crime and mystery genres.
List of Top 10 Books by Gregg Olsen
I have made a list of the top 10 books by Gregg Olsen if you’re looking for a captivating read.
1. Starvation Heights (1997)
“Starvation Heights” delves into the chilling true story of Linda Burfield Hazzard, a self-proclaimed doctor who operated a sanitarium in Washington State in the early 20th century.
The book investigates the case of Hazzard, who advocated an extreme form of fasting and claimed to be able to cure various illnesses through her methods.
Olsen meticulously examines Hazzard’s life, her treatment of patients, and the tragic consequences that ensued.
Get the book here: Starvation Heights
2. A Twisted Faith (2010)
In “A Twisted Faith,” Gregg Olsen investigates the disturbing true story of Shelly Knotek and her involvement in a cult-like group. The book explores the dynamics of Knotek’s group, focusing on the insidious manipulation and control exercised by its leader, Michael Ryan.
Olsen provides a comprehensive account of the events leading to Knotek’s arrest and the subsequent uncovering of a web of deceit, abuse, and murder.
The book exposes the chilling consequences of blind loyalty and the devastating effects it can have on individuals and their families.
Get the book here: A Twisted Faith
3. If I Can’t Have You (2008)
“If I Can’t Have You” examines the shocking case of Michele Anderson and her boyfriend Joseph McEnroe, who orchestrated a brutal massacre of Anderson’s family in Washington State.
Gregg Olsen explores the complex relationships, the motives behind the crime, and the aftermath of the horrific incident.
Through meticulous research and interviews, Olsen provides a harrowing account of the events leading up to the tragedy, the investigation, and the subsequent trial.
Get the book here: If I Can’t Have You
4. Abandoned Prayers (2002)
“Abandoned Prayers,” tells the gripping true story of a religious leader and polygamist, Jeffrey Lundgren. The book explores Lundgren’s rise to power and control over his followers, leading to a shocking and tragic conclusion.
Olsen meticulously investigates the inner workings of Lundgren’s cult-like group and the events that eventually culminated in a brutal murder.
Get the book here: Abandoned Prayers
5. The Girl in the Woods (2014)
“The Girl in the Woods,” is a fictional thriller by Gregg Olsen. The story follows a detective investigating the disappearance of a teenage girl named Angie Vance.
As the detective delves deeper into the case, she unravels a web of dark secrets and hidden motives. Olsen expertly weaves together suspense, mystery, and psychological tension as the detective races against time to uncover the truth.
Get the book here: The Girl in the Woods
6. Closer than Blood (2015)
“Closer than Blood” is a gripping thriller that delves into the complexities of family secrets and the lengths one woman goes to uncover the truth behind her mother’s suspicious death.
The story revolves around Rainey, who returns to her hometown of Port Gamble, Washington, after her mother’s apparent suicide.
However, Rainey suspects foul play and is determined to uncover the hidden truths that lie beneath the surface of her seemingly ordinary family.
Get the book here: Closer than Blood
7. A Cold Dark Place (2011)
“A Cold Dark Place” introduces readers to Detective Megan Carpenter, a determined investigator with a tragic past.
When a young girl goes missing in the small town of Snoqualmie, Washington, Megan is determined to find her and bring her home safely.
As Megan delves into the investigation, she discovers a pattern of missing girls that spans over a decade, and she realizes she may be dealing with a serial kidnapper.
Get the book here: A Cold Dark Place
8. The Last Thing She Ever Did (2018)
“The Last Thing She Ever Did” is a suspenseful novel that explores the aftermath of a tragic accident and the secrets that lie beneath the surface of a small town.
The story follows Hannah, a young woman who accidentally hits a woman with her car one foggy night. Terrified and overwhelmed with guilt, Hannah makes a split-second decision to cover up the accident, thinking she can keep the secret buried forever.
However, as the days go by, the weight of her actions becomes unbearable, and Hannah finds herself caught in a web of lies and deception.
Get the book here: The Last Thing She Ever Did
9. Fear Collector (2008)
“Fear Collector” is a psychological thriller that explores the twisted mind of a serial killer and the woman caught in his deadly game. The story centers around Katy, a woman who possesses a unique ability to sense and collect the fears of others.
When a series of brutal murders shakes her small community, Katy becomes entangled with the killer, who seeks to use her rare gift for his own sinister purposes.
As Katy races against time to stop the madman before he strikes again, she must confront her own fears and navigate the twisted labyrinth of the killer’s mind.
Get the book here: Fear Collector
10. Heart of Ice (2017)
“Heart of Ice” is a chilling tale of a seemingly perfect family with dark secrets lurking beneath the surface. The story revolves around Laura, a devoted wife, and mother, and her husband, Gregg.
From the outside, their life appears idyllic, but as the cracks in their façade begin to show, Laura realizes that Gregg’s violent tendencies and past actions may be more sinister than she ever imagined.
As Laura delves deeper into her husband’s past, she uncovers a history of violence, manipulation, and unspeakable acts.
Get the book here: Heart of Ice
FAQs
What genre does Gregg Olsen primarily write in?
Gregg Olsen primarily writes in the genres of true crime and suspenseful thrillers.
What are some of Gregg Olsen’s most popular true crime books?
Some of Gregg Olsen’s most popular true crime books include “Starvation Heights,” “A Twisted Faith,” and “If I Can’t Have You.”
Does Gregg Olsen write fiction as well?
Yes, in addition to true crime, Gregg Olsen has written several works of fiction.
Are Gregg Olsen’s books based on real events?
Gregg Olsen’s true crime books are based on real events and criminal cases.
Are Gregg Olsen’s books suitable for all readers?
Due to the nature of true crime and the often intense subject matter explored in his books, they may not be suitable for all readers.
Summary
Gregg Olsen is a renowned author known for his captivating true crime books and suspenseful thrillers. With meticulous research and a talent for storytelling, he has garnered a dedicated following of readers.
Whether exploring the dark depths of true crime or weaving tales of suspense, Gregg Olsen’s books offer a compelling reading experience.
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