Rotten Mango
Book Recommendations

Rotten Mango

Rotten but still a little sweet! Rotten Mango is a true crime + all things spooky podcast. We love doing deep dives into the darkest crimes and we tend to not leave out any details - which can get a little rotten at times. If you want deep dives in the psychology of killers, no holding back storytel...

Episodes 675
Books 286

Recently mentioned

Latest Recommendations

Confession of a Serial Killer: The Untold Story of Dennis Rader, the BTK Killer cover

Confession of a Serial Killer

Katherine Ramsland

Mentioned 2 days ago

13 Year Old Realizes His Twin Brother Is A Killer In The Middle Of Interrogation

The hosts reported that investigators discovered a copy of the book in a nightstand drawer during the search of the victim's bedroom.

They find in the drawer of the left nightstand of a bed, Confessions of a Serial Killer, the book, and a brown leather journal that just reads on the first page.

Buy on Amazon
Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones cover

Atomic Habits

James Clear

Mentioned 1 week ago

From “I’m Going to Self-Exit” To “I Hope You Die in a Fucking Accident”: Mackenzie's Manipulation

The hosts noted that Dom was reportedly reading Atomic Habits, implying it was influencing his behavior in the relationship.

He's probably just like reading Atomic Habits and the 48 Laws of Power.

Buy on Amazon
The 48 Laws of Power cover

The 48 Laws of Power

Robert Greene

Mentioned 1 week ago

From “I’m Going to Self-Exit” To “I Hope You Die in a Fucking Accident”: Mackenzie's Manipulation

The hosts mentioned that Dom had been reading the 48 Laws of Power, suggesting it was part of his strategy in the manipulative dynamics.

He's probably just like reading Atomic Habits and the 48 Laws of Power.

Buy on Amazon
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone (1) cover

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone (1)

J.K. Rowling

Mentioned 2 weeks ago

“Gay for the Stay” & “Trains Run on Her”: Inside Mackenzie’s Prison Dating Life

Mackenzie told her mother she was reading all the Harry Potter books and said the first one was "good as fuck".

Mackenzie is telling her mom all the things she's been doing. She's been making oatmeal in her room. She says she's reading all the Harry Potter books and all she does is eat. ... Her literary review of the first book in the Harry Potter series is quote, good as fuck.

Buy on Amazon
The Hobbit & The Lord of the Rings Boxed Set Hardcover Illustrated edition 2020 June 25 cover

The Hobbit & The Lord of the Rings Boxed Set Hardcover Illustrated edition 2020 June 25

J.R.R. Tolkien

Mentioned 3 weeks ago

Mackenzie's Mom Calls Police For 'Mean Post' on Social Media- "There Are 2 Girls Bullying Mackenzie"

The hosts remarked that the differing definitions of good parenting might make one party feel like they were reading the Hobbit, implying a whimsical or exaggerated comparison.

our definitions of good parenting and bad kid are so vastly different that one of us might be reading the freaking Hobbit because like, what do you mean?

Buy on Amazon
William Wilson cover

William Wilson

Edgar Allan Poe

Mentioned 3 months ago

Influencer Hunts For Twin Lookalike On Instagram & Brutally Kills Her - But She Won't Say Why

The hosts cited Edgar Allan Poe's William Wilson as another classic illustration of a double who stalks the protagonist, reinforcing the discussion of doppelganger themes.

Sometimes the doppelganger in the main character, like Edgar Allan Poe's William Wilson, the main character is being stalked by a double who shares his name face, they even have the same birthday.

Buy on Amazon
The Double cover

The Double

José Saramago

Mentioned 3 months ago

Influencer Hunts For Twin Lookalike On Instagram & Brutally Kills Her - But She Won't Say Why

The hosts mentioned Dostoevsky's novel The Double as an early example of the doppelganger trope, describing its plot about a meek clerk meeting a man who looks exactly like him.

Even the classics love this trope. Dostoevsky wrote Double where the main character is like this meek government clerk and he meets a man who looks exactly like him. Same face, same name, same everything, same job, but everyone loves him. Nobody likes the main character, but everybody loves him.

Buy on Amazon
Source Code: My Beginnings cover

Source Code

Bill Gates

Mentioned 4 months ago

All The Emails Between Bill Gates & Epstein + Bill Gate's Mistress Speaks Out

The speakers noted that Bill Gates had authored a book titled "Source Code" and that they bought it to compare with other biographies.

I think that book is nicer about Bill Gates because that one you can buy, right? And then, and then, oh, and then Bill Gates released his own book, Source Code, which I also bought because I was like, ooh, the minute I get free time, I'm going to compare all three of them.

Buy on Amazon
Paradise Lost cover

Paradise Lost

John Milton

Mentioned 4 months ago

Unpacking 3 Million Pages Of Epstein Files + Epstein’s Secret 2 Hour Interview

Steve Bannon referenced Milton's Paradise Lost during the interview, noting its themes and quoting passages, while Epstein claimed to have seen a related quote in a documentary.

Steve Bannon asked, "have you read Milton's Paradise Lost? Satan was the number one archangel; he led the rebellion because he couldn't be the top guy. I'd rather reign in hell than serve in heaven."

Buy on Amazon
Mostly What God Does: Reflections on Seeking and Finding His Love Everywhere cover

Mostly What God Does

Savannah Guthrie

Mentioned 4 months ago

Kidnapping Of Nancy Guthrie: 2 Men Detained & Why Is The Internet Pointing Fingers At Son-in-Law

The host noted that a segment from Savannah Guthrie's memoir was being heavily discussed online, describing a childhood "kidnapping game" tradition, but considered it irrelevant to the case.

There is a segment in Savannah Guthrie's book that has been heavily discussed online. Though I think it's not really relevant, some people have brought it up just because they believe the whole thing is odd and eerie.

Buy on Amazon
Save the Cat!: The Last Book on Screenwriting You'll Ever Need cover

Save the Cat!

Blake Snyder

Mentioned 4 months ago

"Puppet Master" Killer Set Up The Most Elaborate Murder Plan To Kill A Woman

The host referred to "Save the Cat" as a popular storytelling framework, noting it as a common element in movies and books that helps audiences connect with the protagonist early on.

What saved a cat? I'm about to tell you. It's like a storyline. A lot of movies and books follow this exact point, progress. It's like the progression of a story.

Buy on Amazon
Empire of Orgasm: Sex, Power, and the Downfall of a Wellness Cult cover

Empire of Orgasm

Ellen Huet

Mentioned 5 months ago

Part 4: ‘Sex Cult’ Founder Wants EVERY Women To Heal Thru Orgasm Ends Up In Prison w/ Ghislaine Maxwell

The hosts described it as an amazing deepdive book on the One Taste case that had just been released, noting that the author also wrote the original expos article.

Ellen Hewitt is the author of an amazing deep dive book on this case called Empire of Orgasm.

Buy on Amazon

Most Recommended

Fight Club Cover

Chuck Palahniuk

Fight Club

The book was noted as a frequent reference for Brian Laundrie, suggesting he was drawn to its dark themes, and it was also highlighted as one of Chuck Palahniuk's notable works when a quote from his writing appeared on Elisa Lam's Tumblr page. Both hosts described Palahniuk as a very good author, but they did not explicitly endorse the title beyond these mentions.

Listen on Audible 7-day free trial

Episode: #99: The Case of Gabby Petito & Jelani Day

Brian Laundrie, Gabby's boyfriend, was said to have frequently mentioned and quoted from this book in relation to his travels and interests, suggesting a connection to a dark or alternative mindset.

"

His favorite author, he seems to quote and bring his book up a lot about his trips, you know, is Chuck Palahniuk, who is very famous for the book Fight Club.

Now, a lot of his books are really good. They're a little bit different. They're a little bit dark.

Episode: #42- Mysterious Death of Elisa Lam

It was mentioned as one of the books written by Chuck Palahniuk, who was also mentioned as a very good author. It was connected to Elisa Lam's Tumblr bio.

"

And he is a really, really good author.

Her top quote at the top of her Tumblr page was 'you're always haunted by the idea that you're wasting your life.' And this is a Chuck Palahniuk quote.

Episode: 16 Yr Old Boy Caught Hunting Kids On Roblox & Runn...

The hosts described Fight Club as a novel turned movie that incels have misinterpreted as a holy bible, noting its deeper messages about consumerism and masculinity.

"

There are so many global operations trying to take down 764... It's all because of Fight Club. Fight Club is a novel turned movie written by Chuck Palahniuk.

You're not your job. You're not how much money you have in the bank. You're not the car that you drive... It's a classic, which is technically supposed to have a lot of deeper messaging about consumerism, capitalism and toxic masculinity.

Episode: 16 Yr Old Boy Caught Hunting Kids On Roblox & Runn...

The hosts explained that Fight Club is a novel turned movie that incels have adopted as a kind of holy bible, misinterpreting its themes about consumerism and masculinity.

"

There are so many global operations trying to take down 764. The US, Canada, there's 16 separate European countries participating in them. There's Operation Darkrooms, Operation Discordia, Operation Autumn Shield, Operation Restore Justice. Every single country seems to be fighting it. And it's all because of Fight Club. That's how it starts. The Fight Club to incel pipeline. Fight Club is a novel turned movie written by Chuck Palahniuk.

It's a classic, which is technically supposed to have a lot of deeper messaging about consumerism, capitalism and toxic masculinity. And Chuck Palahniuk is a fantastic writer. But the incels have taken it and decided that this is going to be their holy Bible.

For example, there is a famous quote, You're not your job. You're not how much money you have in the bank. You're not the car that you drive. You're not the contents of your wallet. You're not your fucking khakis.

Episode: Brian Laundrie Is Alive? His Confession Note For K...

The speakers referenced Fight Club as Chuck Palahniuk's most wellknown work and shared several of its motivational quotes that Brian Laundrie liked.

"

He did Fight Club. Oh. That's how most people know Chuck Palahniuk. But he's got some like crazy other stories. But Fight Club is what he's mainly known for.

Only after disaster can we be resurrected. It's only after you've lost everything that you're free to do anything. Nothing is static. Everything is evolving. Everything is falling apart.

Lolita: Introduction by Martin Amis (Everyman's Library Contemporary Classics Series) Cover

Vladimir Nabokov

Lolita

Introduction by Martin Amis (Everyman's Library Contemporary Classics Series)

Stephanie Soo referenced the book across three episodes, using it to illustrate the disturbing parallels between the novel's subject matter and real-life cases involving teenage girls. She highlighted its controversial reputation, massive sales, and the author's inspiration from true crime, while also noting its unsettling focus on a pedophile's inner thoughts. The discussion conveyed a critical view of the title's literary merit and its sinister themes.

Critiqued
Listen on Audible 7-day free trial

Episode: #153: The Unicorn Killer (Case of Ira Einhorn)

It was mentioned in the context of Ira's journaling about his experiences with teenage girls, and how it shares similarities with the book's subject matter.

"

And that's how the book Lolita came to be.

Episode: #134: The Real Lolita & The Fake FBI (Case of Sall...

It was referenced and compared to the Sally Horner case throughout the episode, with the podcast host highlighting numerous parallels between the book and Sally's life. The author, Vladimir Nabokov, was reportedly inspired by true crime cases, including Sally Horner's, while writing the book.

"

Remember what's between the ages of 12 and 14? According to Humbert Humbert, a nymphet.

Unlike Humbert in Lolita, Frank is not well-spoken nor well educated.

And a lot of the things he passionately talks about. Well, the very next day, he's most likely going to just contradict himself like he was one of those guys.

He kept a gun around again, Lolita.

So mind you, Lolita was the manuscript for that book was burned almost twice. And Vladimir's wife is the one that stopped him. He wanted to throw it in the fire because he had writer's block.

Episode: #133: The 12 Year Old “Temptress”

It was described as a controversial book, detailing the thoughts of a pedophile, which became incredibly popular and has sold over 60 million copies. The speaker felt that the book, while having some literary merit, was quite sinister.

"

Now, there is another book called Lolita by Vladimir Nobokov.

Now, Lolita is a very controversial book. It was incredibly famous. It's still famous to this day. It was written in 1955 by a Russian-American novelist.

This is a book that has sold over 60 million copies worldwide.

It's not about falling in love in a field. It's not about social classes. It's literally the inner thoughts of a pedophile.

There's more copies sold of Lolita than The Great Gatsby, To Kill a Mockingbird, Hunger Games and The Diary of Anne Frank. More copies of Lolita has been sold.

Episode: Parents Tie Up Kidnapped Man Onto Cross & Force Th...

The novel was mentioned as part of a disturbing childhood memory involving the father's reading habits.

"

She says that her dad would read the book Lolita to her while she was being abused.

Episode: Ghislaine Maxwell Spills Secrets About 5 Billionai...

The episode highlighted that Epstein bought an annotated and revised edition of this controversial novel in the last months of his life.

"

One of his last book purchases in the last three months of his life is Lolita, the annotated and revised version about a man who is obsessed with a 12yearold girl.

Dead in the Water: A True Story of Hijacking, Murder, and a Global Maritime Conspiracy Cover

Matthew Campbell

Dead in the Water

A True Story of Hijacking, Murder, and a Global Maritime Conspiracy

The hosts highlighted the book as a moving account of a sister's relentless pursuit of justice after her brother's murder at sea, noting its powerful emotional resonance and the author's ability to convey the family's anguish. They praised the subject's resilience and described the narrative as one of the most admirable stories they had encountered, linking it as a key resource for listeners interested in the case.

Highly Recommended
Listen on Audible 7-day free trial

Episode: #310: She Tracked Down Her Brother's Killer Throug...

It was described as a moving book that detailed the sister's journey for justice and explored the intense emotions experienced by the family following the disappearance and eventual murder of her brother.

"

There is really an incredible book on this case written by the sister of one of the victims Penny Farmer it's called Dead in the Water.

It was such a moving book I think first of all Penny Farmer is an incredible woman and the way that she's able to find justice for her brother and never give up through this whole process is one of the most admirable things that I've read about in a really long time.

But also her ability to bring out a ton of emotions into the book. I mean you could feel everything that her family was going through and had been through in this book and it's a lot.

So I'm gonna link that below there's also a really good podcast by the BBC that I'm also gonna link but with that being said let's get into it.

in her book there is however one thing worse than not knowing why a loved one has died it's being stuck in limbo not knowing if they're alive or dead but they're classified as missing it's a horrible word and it's one that curdles the blood and sends shivers down the spine of any parent.

Episode: #310: She Tracked Down Her Brother's Killer Throug...

It was described as a moving book about Penny Farmer's pursuit of justice for her brother, Chris, and his girlfriend, Petta, who were murdered at sea. It conveyed the intense emotions and pain experienced by their families during the long and difficult process.

"

There is however one thing worse than not knowing why a loved one has died it's being stuck in limbo not knowing if they're alive or dead but they're classified as missing it's a horrible word and it's one that curdles the blood and sends shivers down the spine of any parent.

I don't think I'll ever feel true happiness again the best part of my life is over.

my beloved best friend Chris

I started to believe that if I thought about Chris and Petta every day they would still be alive at least on some existential level and I could expunge some of that guilt for Chris saving me.

he was an absolute psychopath he was an insane dog that needed putting down.

Episode: #310: She Tracked Down Her Brother's Killer Throug...

It was described as a moving book that evoked strong emotions about the family's experience, and was praised for Penny Farmer's resilience and pursuit of justice for her brother.

"

There is really an incredible book on this case written by the sister of one of the victims Penny Farmer it's called Dead in the Water.

It was such a moving book I think first of all Penny Farmer is an incredible woman and the way that she's able to find justice for her brother and never give up through this whole process is one of the most admirable things that I've read about in a really long time.

But also her ability to bring out a ton of emotions into the book. I mean you could feel everything that her family was going through and had been through in this book and it's a lot.

So I'm gonna link that below there's also a really good podcast by the BBC that I'm also gonna link but with that being said let's get into it.

in her book there is however one thing worse than not knowing why a loved one has died it's being stuck in limbo not knowing if they're alive or dead but they're classified as missing it's a horrible word and it's one that curdles the blood and sends shivers down the spine of any parent

Episode: #310: She Tracked Down Her Brother's Killer Throug...

It was described as a moving book that detailed the family's ordeal, capturing their emotions and Penny Farmer's pursuit of justice for her brother.

"

There is however one thing worse than not knowing why a loved one has died it's being stuck in limbo not knowing if they're alive or dead but they're classified as missing it's a horrible word and it's one that curdles the blood and sends shivers down the spine of any parent.

I don't think I'll ever feel true happiness again the best part of my life is over.

my beloved best friend Chris

I started to believe that if I thought about Chris and Petta every day they would still be alive at least on some existential level and I could expunge some of that guilt for Chris saving me.

he was an absolute psychopath he was an insane dog that needed putting down

The Billionaire Murders: The Mysterious Deaths of Barry and Honey Sherman Cover

Kevin Donovan

The Billionaire Murders

The Mysterious Deaths of Barry and Honey Sherman

The episode highlighted the book as a comprehensive investigative account of the Sherman murders, offering detailed public information about the case. Host(s) noted that author Kevin Donovan, an investigative journalist, interviewed hundreds of people, accessed Supreme Court records, and risked his career to uncover the story. The discussion praised his talent and thoroughness, effectively recommending the title to listeners.

Highly Recommended
Listen on Audible 7-day free trial

Episode: #315: Big-Pharma Billionaires’ Bodies FOUND Hangin...

It was discussed that Kevin Donovan, an investigative journalist, wrote a book on the case, "The Billionaire Murders", which provided details of the case to the public.

"

he wrote a book on this case called The Billionaire Murders

obviously while the subject of the book is incredibly heavy we're dealing with two deaths I will say that he's very talented at not just writing but also his job as an investigative journalist.

Episode: #315: Big-Pharma Billionaires’ Bodies FOUND Hangin...

It was discussed as a book that was written by an investigative journalist who followed the case closely and interviewed numerous individuals associated with the Sherman family.

"

He wrote a book on this case called The Billionaire Murders and obviously while the subject of the book is incredibly heavy we're dealing with two deaths I will say that he's very talented at not just writing but also his job as an investigative journalist.

He is the one that spoke to hundreds of people that were close to the family I mean I feel like at times he probably risked his career and his life maybe even to dig into this case he's gone all the way to the Supreme Courts in Canada to get information on this case he is an author, podcaster, docuseries producer.

Episode: #315: Big-Pharma Billionaires’ Bodies FOUND Hangin...

It was discussed in detail, focusing on the journalist's thorough investigation, covering interviews and court records to provide a comprehensive account of the Sherman murders.

"

he wrote a book on this case called The Billionaire Murders and obviously while the subject of the book is incredibly heavy we're dealing with two deaths I will say that he's very talented at not just writing but also his job as an investigative journalist.

He is the one that spoke to hundreds of people that were close to the family I mean I feel like at times he probably risked his career and his life maybe even to dig into this case he's gone all the way to the Supreme Courts in Canada to get information on this case he is an author, podcaster, docuseries producer.

Episode: #315: Big-Pharma Billionaires’ Bodies FOUND Hangin...

The book, written by investigative journalist Kevin Donovan, delves into the unsolved murders of Barry and Honey Sherman, exploring multiple theories and suspects surrounding their deaths.

"

Kevin Donovan he wrote a book on this case called The Billionaire Murders and obviously while the subject of the book is incredibly heavy we're dealing with two deaths I will say that he's very talented at not just writing but also his job as an investigative journalist.

He is the one that spoke to hundreds of people that were close to the family I mean I feel like at times he probably risked his career and his life maybe even to dig into this case he's gone all the way to the Supreme Courts in Canada to get information on this case he is an author, podcaster, docuseries producer.

He's followed this case since the beginning he's interviewed re-interviewed family, friends, public sources even the billionaire family's private investigators to just get the most comprehensive information that is now available to the public thanks to him.

1984 Cover

George Orwell

1984

The podcast referenced the novel several times, first noting that the family had watched its film adaptation and questioning whether it was suitable for a family movie night. Later, a host highlighted the book as a stark dystopian warning about government surveillance, calling it an 'oh‑shit' cautionary tale. Overall, the discussion treated the title as an important, thought‑provoking work but not a recommended family viewing choice.

Listen on Audible 7-day free trial

Episode: #350: Mom Found Human Head + Severed Hands In TEEN...

The movie 1984, based on the novel by George Orwell, was chosen as a movie night option by Brian and his parents. Brian's parents seem to accept this unusual choice.

"

This is the movie based off of the George Orwell book 1984, which is like good book, yes, but like, I don't know if that's the best movie night with your family.

Episode: #182: The People Who Spy On Us (KGB & MI6 Spy Kidn...

It was described as a dystopian novel where every action and thought is monitored by the government, and the concept was mentioned to be unsettlingly close to reality.

"

Have you guys read the book 1984?

1984 is like the ultimate oh shit let's never let this happen type of plot. It's our warning of the future.

It's a dystopian social science fiction novel about a world where your every action and even every single thought that you think is monitored by the government, is heavily monitored by the thought police and by Big Brother.

Episode: #350: Mom Found Human Head + Severed Hands In TEEN...

Brian's family watched the movie adaptation of George Orwell's "1984" as a movie night activity.

"

This is the movie based off of the George Orwell book 1984, which is like good book, yes, but like, I don't know if that's the best movie night with your family. Why not like an Avengers movie or something?

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone (1) Cover

J.K. Rowling

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone (1)

The book was referenced twice on the show, first when a host likened certain people to "muggles" as a playful nod to the series, and later when describing a violent incident in which a box set of the hardcover volumes was tossed. Neither episode offered a recommendation or critique, merely using the title as a cultural touchstone. The overall tone was light and anecdotal.

Listen on Audible 7-day free trial

Episode: A-List Actress Passed - Billionaire Ex-Husband & M...

The host recounted that during a violent incident the husband grabbed a box set of the hardcover Harry Potter books and threw them, which netizens noted weighed about 15 pounds and contained seven volumes.

"

you grabbed a box set of the hardcover copies of Harry Potter, which netizens looked it up. It's like 15 pounds. It's like seven books.

Episode: Part 3: Woman Creates 'Sex Cult' In Silicon Valley...

The host referred to OneTaste's potential clients as "muggles" in a reference to the Harry Potter series.

"

She would call them muggles like from Harry Potter. They don't know magic. They're living in the matrix.

Episode: “Gay for the Stay” & “Trains Run on Her”: Inside M...

Mackenzie told her mother she was reading all the Harry Potter books and said the first one was "good as fuck".

"

Mackenzie is telling her mom all the things she's been doing. She's been making oatmeal in her room. She says she's reading all the Harry Potter books and all she does is eat. ... Her literary review of the first book in the Harry Potter series is quote, good as fuck.

The Handmaid's Tale Cover

Margaret Atwood

The Handmaid's Tale

The book was brought up when a host referenced a famous Margaret Atwood quote about men fearing women's laughter and women fearing men's violence, linking it to the podcast's themes. In a later episode, the title's 1990 film adaptation was noted for having been shot at the case's house, including a scene on the back staircase. The discussions were descriptive rather than promotional.

Listen on Audible 7-day free trial

Episode: #165: The Taxi Driver & The Missing Girls In Mexic...

The Margaret Atwood quote about men fearing women's laughter and women fearing men's violence was discussed in relation to the podcast's themes, and the book itself was mentioned.

"

And that is how the very famous Margaret Atwood quote that has been used in The Handmaid's Tale, that men are afraid women will laugh at them. Women are afraid men will kill them, came to be.

Episode: #44- The Sinister Staircase (Case of Michael & Kat...

The book was adapted into a 1990 movie that was filmed at the Peterson's house, and later into a TV show.

"

The Handmaid's Tale was a 1990 movie was seen like filmed there, there was actually a scene filmed on the back staircase so that happened before Kathleen's death.

Episode: 100 Women Kept as Slaves in “Human Egg Farm” For E...

The hosts compared the alleged human egg farm situation to the dystopian novel, saying it reminded them of the themes in The Handmaid's Tale.

"

That's way too much like Handmaid's Tale.

We're bypassing all security measures and just going straight to Margaret Atwood.

Book of Psalms - Alabaster Bible (NLT) Cover

Alabaster Co.

Book of Psalms - Alabaster Bible (NLT)

The serial killer, Lewis Garavito, was heard reciting verses from the Book of Psalms while weeping in a church, possibly as part of a religious or ritualistic act.

"

The fool says in his heart there is no God, they are corrupt, their deeds are vile, vile, vile, there is no one who is good, no one who does good. Their deeds are vile.

— Episode: #313: The Beast Of Colombia - Serial Kil...

Listen on Audible 7-day free trial

Episode: #313: The Beast Of Colombia - Serial Killer That L...

The serial killer, Lewis Garavito, was heard reciting verses from the Book of Psalms while weeping in a church, possibly as part of a religious or ritualistic act.

"

The fool says in his heart there is no God, they are corrupt, their deeds are vile, vile, vile, there is no one who is good, no one who does good. Their deeds are vile.

Episode: #313: The Beast Of Colombia - Serial Killer That L...

Verses from the book of Psalms were recited by the Beast of Colombia as he wept in a cathedral, possibly as a form of religious ritual or self-punishment, having been raised in a devout Catholic family.

"

The fool says in his heart there is no God, they are corrupt, their deeds are vile, vile, vile, there is no one who is good, no one who does good. Their deeds are vile.

Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones Cover

James Clear

Atomic Habits

An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones

It was discussed as a book about improving life one step at a time and was described as a cult classic.

"

But now that I'm listening to Atomic Habits, I get why I never achieved those goals.

— Episode: #330: She Exposed Famous Soccer Player,...

Listen on Audible 7-day free trial

Episode: #330: She Exposed Famous Soccer Player, Disappeare...

It was discussed as a book about improving life one step at a time and was described as a cult classic.

"

But now that I'm listening to Atomic Habits, I get why I never achieved those goals.

Atomic Habits is this cult classic at this point.

Episode: From “I’m Going to Self-Exit” To “I Hope You Die i...

The hosts noted that Dom was reportedly reading Atomic Habits, implying it was influencing his behavior in the relationship.

"

He's probably just like reading Atomic Habits and the 48 Laws of Power.

No, he should read though.

The Book of John (The Smart Guide to the Bible Series) Cover

Lin Johnson

The Book of John (The Smart Guide to the Bible Series)

The book was noted in two episodes as a bright red guide that was used in place of a traditional Bible. In one episode a character was said to have swapped his Bible for this orange‑circular cover, and in another it slid off a dashboard and was identified as a Bible. The hosts simply mentioned its appearance without offering a recommendation.

Listen on Audible 7-day free trial

Episode: Ex-GF Calls Diddy "Bi-Curious" & Details 48 Hr Nig...

He had stopped using the Bible and was instead reading a brightred book with an orange circle on the cover during the trial.

"

He has ditched the Bible. He has replaced it with this bright red book with this orange circle in the middle.

Episode: New Gabby Petito Texts Reveal Brian’s Obsession &...

The host noted that a book slid off the dashboard onto the hitchhiker's lap and identified it as her Bible.

"

It slides all the way off and lands directly on the hitchhiker's lap. She looks at him. He's looking at her. He smiles, picks it up from his lap, leans it and puts it back on the dashboard. It's her Bible.

The Righteous Mind: Why Good People Are Divided by Politics and Religion Cover

Jonathan Haidt

The Righteous Mind

Why Good People Are Divided by Politics and Religion

The host highlighted the book as an engaging read that presented moral dilemma questions and showcased how students responded, noting it was a good choice for sparking lively dinner‑party discussions. It was praised for its thought‑provoking content and was recommended as a useful resource for exploring political and religious divisions.

Highly Recommended
Listen on Audible 7-day free trial

Episode: China's "Red Uncle/Sister Hong" Exposed W/ 1600+ V...

The host described the book as a good, engaging read filled with moral dilemma questions and students' responses.

"

Side note, if you've ever had the desire to be the very annoying dinner party guest, his book is really good. It's called Righteous Mind. It's filled with these questions and how his students respond.

Episode: China's "Red Uncle/Sister Hong" Exposed W/ 1600+ V...

The host mentioned that the book was really good and gave its title during a sidenote about moral dilemmas.

"

Side note, if you've ever had the desire to be the very annoying dinner party guest, his book is really good. It's called Righteous Mind. It's, it's... Is it filled with these questions? Yeah. And it's filled with how his students respond.

Through My Window Cover

Ariana Godoy

Through My Window

The book was referenced as a collection of blurry landscape photographs taken from the window of a multimillion‑dollar estate, which the host described as mediocre and part of a rebranding effort to cast the owner as a tortured artist. It was noted that the creator called the images "art" despite their low quality.

Critiqued
Listen on Audible 7-day free trial

Episode: #260: Korean Billionaire “With No Face” Mysterious...

It was a book of photographs that was described as being mediocre, taken from the window of Yoo Byung-eun's multimillion-dollar estate, which he called art.

"

He took blurry landscape photos out of his multimillion dollar estate window and he called it art.

It was called Through My Window.

Episode: #260: Korean Billionaire “With No Face” Mysterious...

It was a book of landscape photographs that Yoo Byung-eun took from the window of his multimillion-dollar estate and was said to be inspired by his time in prison. It was part of a rebranding effort to portray him as a tortured artist.

"

He took blurry landscape photos out of his multimillion dollar estate window and he called it art.

It was called Through My Window.

Out of My Depth Cover

Anne Darwin

Out of My Depth

The host recommended the book for its vulnerable and transparent portrayal of a humiliating real‑life case, noting that it avoided a self‑serving tone while providing valuable context to the events. It was highlighted as a fascinating account written by the subject's spouse, offering an open look at the disappearance and reappearance. The discussion conveyed strong praise for the book's honesty and insight.

Highly Recommended
Listen on Audible 7-day free trial

Episode: #237: Vanished Man Came Back 6 Years Later With A...

It was recommended by the podcast host for being vulnerable and transparent about the humiliating case, and also for not being self-serving, providing context to the case's escalation.

"

It's called Out of My Depth. I do recommend checking it out. I thought it was fascinating to see someone be so vulnerable, transparent and open about something so utterly humiliating. I was worried the book would feel self-serving, but it thankfully didn't.

Episode: #237: Vanished Man Came Back 6 Years Later With A...

It was written by Anne Darwin, the wife of John Darwin, and detailed the events surrounding his disappearance and subsequent reappearance, offering a vulnerable and transparent look at the situation.

"

It's called Out of My Depth. I do recommend checking it out. I thought it was fascinating to see someone be so vulnerable, transparent and open about something so utterly humiliating.

Lost Girls: An Unsolved American Mystery Cover

Robert Kolker

Lost Girls

An Unsolved American Mystery

The hosts referenced the title while discussing Marine's Myspace posts about having nightmares of a serial killer during her escort work, using it to provide background on the unsolved case. They noted the book offered context for the story but did not specifically endorse it.

Listen on Audible 7-day free trial
If You Tell: A True Story of Murder, Family Secrets, and the Unbreakable Bond of Sisterhood Cover

Gregg Olsen

If You Tell

A True Story of Murder, Family Secrets, and the Unbreakable Bond of Sisterhood

The book was highlighted as a standout true‑crime title that the host had previously enjoyed and praised as one of the best reads of the year. It was recommended strongly and served as the primary source for an episode that examined a disturbing family abuse case. Overall, the discussion conveyed strong enthusiasm for the author's work.

Highly Recommended
Listen on Audible 7-day free trial

Episode: #114: The Creepy Father In Law Diaries (Case of Su...

It was highlighted as another true crime book by Greg Olson, which the host had previously enjoyed and recommended highly.

"

He wrote one of the best books I've read all year, which is If You Tell, another true crime book. I highly recommend checking out all of his stuff.

Episode: #65: The Sisterhood Of Torture (Case of Michelle K...

The book 'If You Tell' was used as the basis for the podcast episode, detailing the complex and disturbing case of Michelle Knotek and the abuse within her family.

"

So the book is titled If You Tell by Greg Olson, and it is such a good book. I mean, I just like breezed through this.

If You Give a Mouse a Cookie Cover

Laura Numeroff

If You Give a Mouse a Cookie

The book was brought up in two episodes as a metaphor for how a small action can trigger a cascade of increasingly serious consequences, illustrating the concept of creeping normality. Hosts referenced it to compare the unfolding events in the stories to the chain reaction portrayed in the title.

Listen on Audible 7-day free trial

Episode: #286: US Student Arrested In North Korea During Va...

It was mentioned in the context of a North Korean poster situation, where a small action could lead to a chain of events with increasingly dire consequences, analogous to the book's plot.

"

have you guys read the book If You Give a Mouse a Cookie

no it's like If You Give a Mouse a Cookie they're gonna ask for a cup of milk to go with it then they're gonna ask for this this

Episode: #151: “The Bad Vegan” (Case of Sarma Melngailis)

It was mentioned as an example of a children's book that illustrates the concept of 'creeping normality' where small, seemingly insignificant changes can lead to significant consequences, similar to the events in the podcast's story.

"

Or with children's books, If You Give a Mouse a Cookie. Have you guys read that book? It's about you give a mouse a cookie and then suddenly it steals your house and your wife and your kids.

The Hillside Stranglers Cover

Darcy O'Brien

The Hillside Stranglers

The hosts highlighted the book as the most thorough examination of the Hillside Stranglers case, praising its detailed narrative. Stephanie Soo specifically recommended it while warning listeners that its graphic and intense content could be overwhelming.

Highly Recommended
Listen on Audible 7-day free trial

Episode: #112: The Hillside Stranglers Part 2 (Case of Ange...

It was described as the best deep dive into the case of the Hillside Stranglers, but was also noted as being very intense.

"

Rec: "The Hillside Stranglers" - by Darcy O'Brien (best deep dive on this case out there but it is really intense.)

Episode: #111: The Hillside Stranglers (Case of Angelo Buon...

It was described as the best deep dive into the case of the Hillside Stranglers, but it was also mentioned as being very intense, gruesome, and graphic.

"

there's a really good book on this case called The Hillside Stranglers by Darcy O'Brien.

Now this book is it's honestly so detailed like I don't know what else to say other than there will be parts if you read it that you're gonna want to throw the book across the room.

You're gonna want to gag. It's really gruesome, it's graphic, it's dark but truly this is the best deep dive that you can find on this case in my humble opinion.

Go pick up yourself a copy but don't come running at me okay? Don't come emailing me this was too dark I almost gagged.

I warned you this is my warning but I will say that this story I mean it's impossible to tell you the story without getting into these gruesome details because they're so pertinent to the whole case.

Hidden Valley Road: Inside the Mind of an American Family Cover

Robert Kolker

Hidden Valley Road

Inside the Mind of an American Family

The podcast host read the book as the primary source for an episode about a family with multiple schizophrenia cases, noting it offered a comprehensive biography that the family endorsed. They preferred it to a documentary because several siblings were dissatisfied with the film's portrayal. The hosts highlighted the book’s depth and the author’s access to the family, presenting it as a trusted account.

Highly Recommended
Listen on Audible 7-day free trial

Episode: #376: Most “Mentally Insane” Family In America- Si...

The hosts said they had read the family's biography to learn about the Galvin case.

"

I read the family's biography Hidden Valley Road by Robert Kolker.

Episode: #376: Most “Mentally Insane” Family In America- Si...

The podcast host read this book as source material for the episode, focusing on the Galvin family's experiences with schizophrenia and the family's biography. It was preferred over an HBO Max documentary due to the family's concerns with the latter's portrayal.

"

So for this episode I read the family's biography Hidden Valley Road by Robert Kolker.

The two youngest siblings, they actually sought out Dr. Kolker to the author of the book to share their stories.

The author had the blessing of the whole family including the mother but a few of the siblings chose not to even participate in the HBO Max documentary and even after the documentary came out, a few that did participate they did not like it.

So we focused most of our research on the book.

Techniques of Crime Scene Investigation Cover

Barry A. J. Fisher

Techniques of Crime Scene Investigation

In two episodes, the hosts recounted that Brian's mother purchased the 8th edition of the book for him, hoping to steer his morbid curiosity toward a constructive outlet. The book was referenced as a research resource, noted for containing over thirty graphic photographs of mutilated victims. The discussion highlighted the unsettling nature of the images rather than endorsing the work.

Listen on Audible 7-day free trial

Episode: #350: Mom Found Human Head + Severed Hands In TEEN...

The book 'Techniques of a Crime Scene Investigator' was bought for Brian, by his mother, to try and channel his morbid curiosity into a more productive territory. The book, which was used in the podcast for research purposes, contains over 30 graphic pictures of mutilated murder victims.

"

She buys him the book, Techniques of a Crime Scene Investigator, 8th Edition.

She told him when she gave it to him, Brian, let's channel all this morbid curiosity into something positive that you can affect the world with good change.

I purchased this book for research for this case and there are over 30 very graphic pictures of mutilated murdered bodies in the book Uncensored Real.

There are pictures of murdered women whose private parts have been chopped off, completely mutilated, pictures of women who have been dismembered and tortured. It is a lot.

Like decapitated heads. Like it's a lot.

Episode: #350: Mom Found Human Head + Severed Hands In TEEN...

Brian's mom bought him the 8th edition of this book, "Techniques of a Crime Scene Investigator", to help him channel his morbid curiosity into a productive outlet.

"

She buys him the book, Techniques of a Crime Scene Investigator, 8th Edition. She told him when she gave it to him, Brian, let's channel all this morbid curiosity into something positive that you can affect the world with good change.

Note: The book recommendations on this page are discovered automatically from podcast transcripts, and may be incorrect or incomplete.