If you’ve been spellbound by the gripping blend of history, suspense, and true crime, prepare for an exciting literary journey ahead. We’ve meticulously curated a list of 11 exceptional books like Devil In The White City that will satisfy your hunger for captivating narratives, intriguing characters, and historical depth.
From chilling mysteries to immersive historical accounts, these novels promise to transport you to different times and places, ensuring an unforgettable reading experience.
Books Like The Devil In The White City
In the Garden of Beasts (2011)
by Erik Larson
The author of the first book to make this list is the same as ‘The Devil in the White City.’ If you liked the writing style of the author, there is no better book than ‘In the Garden of Beasts.’
The book dives into the experiences of William E. Dodd, the United States’ ambassador to Germany during Adolf Hitler’s rise to power in the 1930s. Set in Berlin, the narrative explores the early years of Hitler’s regime through the eyes of Dodd and his family. As they navigate their new life in the German capital, the Dodds witness the gradual transformation of Germany into a totalitarian state.
Larson meticulously portrays the Dodds’ encounters with influential figures such as Hermann Göring, Joseph Goebbels, and Rudolf Diels, providing an intimate glimpse into the inner workings of the Nazi regime. Amidst the backdrop of escalating anti-Semitism and political repression, Dodd’s growing disillusionment with Hitler’s government becomes increasingly apparent.
If reading about the chilling atmosphere of fear and uncertainty that gripped Germany in that era interests you, you must check out this book.
Total Pages– 448 pages
Language- English
Goodreads Rating– 3.87
Amazon Rating– 4.3
If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 14 hours and 56 minutes to finish In the Garden of Beasts by Erik Larson.
The Lost city of Z (2009)
by David Grann
A non-fiction, this book is not just a tale of exploration and adventure; it delves into the human spirit and the enduring allure of the unknown. It sheds light on the sacrifices made by explorers and the complexities of their quest.
‘The Lost City of Z’ will take you on a thrilling journey into the heart of the Amazon rainforest and the mind of an ambitious explorer. It tells the true story of Percy Fawcett, who embarked on a series of expeditions to the Amazon rainforest in the early 20th century in search of an ancient lost civilization.
Fawcett’s obsession with finding the fabled “City of Z” consumed him, driving him to face numerous hardships and dangers in the uncharted wilderness. Despite skepticism from his contemporaries, Fawcett believed that a highly advanced civilization existed deep within the jungle, waiting to be discovered.
The book is a must-read for anyone fascinated by real-life adventures and the mysteries of the past.
Total Pages– 339 pages
Language- English
Goodreads Rating– 3.87
Amazon Rating– 4.3
If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 11 hours and 18 minutes to finish The Lost City of Z by David Grann.
The Monster of Florence (2009)
by Mario Spezi and Douglas Preston
The story of ‘The Monster of Florence’ revolves around a series of gruesome murders that took place in the hills surrounding Florence, Italy, between 1968 and 1985. The killer targeted young couples parked in secluded areas, leaving behind a trail of violence and fear. As investigators struggled to identify the culprit, the case became one of Italy’s most perplexing and enduring mysteries.
Preston and Spezi delve into the perplexing investigation, exploring the cultural and political backdrop of Italy, including corruption, conspiracy theories, and the power of the media. The authors also find themselves caught up in the case, facing accusations and threats from authorities.
This book offers a gripping account of the crimes, the hunt for the killer, and the authors’ own personal experiences. It highlights the complexities and challenges faced by law enforcement, as well as the impact of a notorious and elusive serial killer on a community.
If what you loved about ‘The Devil in the White City’ was true crime, this book is an absolute must-read for you.
Total Pages– 354 pages
Language- English
Goodreads Rating– 3.76
Amazon Rating– 4.3
If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 11 hours and 48 minutes to finish The Monster of Florence by Douglas Preston and Mario Spezi.
Dead Wake: The Last Crossing of the Lusitania (2015)
by Erik Larson
This is a non-fiction book about a horrible, heart-wrenching tragedy, that is beautifully told. It will leave you overwhelmed with emotions, making you feel each of them through Larson’s writing.
The book chronicles the final voyage of the RMS Lusitania, a luxury ocean liner, during World War I. In May 1915, the Lusitania was torpedoed by a German U-boat off the coast of Ireland, resulting in the deaths of over 1,100 people, including 128 Americans.
Larson meticulously researches the events leading up to the tragedy, providing a vivid account of the passengers and crew on board, their lives, and their fates. He explores the political climate, naval warfare tactics, and the motivations behind the attack. Through the stories of individuals such as Captain William Turner, passengers, and U-boat commander Walther Schwieger, Larson offers a multi-dimensional perspective of the disaster.
Total Pages– 430 pages
Language- English
Goodreads Rating– 4.11
Amazon Rating– 4.4
If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 14 hours and 20 minutes to finish Dead Wake by Erik Larson.
People Who Eat Darkness: The True Story of a Young Woman Who Vanished from the Streets of Tokyo–and the Evil That Swallowed Her Up (2010)
by Richard Lloyd Parry
A haunting and thought-provoking exploration of a tragic crime that sheds light on the darker aspects of both a society and an individual, the book delves into the chilling true story of Lucie Blackman, a young British woman who vanished in Tokyo in the summer of 2000. Parry, a journalist, meticulously investigates the case and explores the dark underbelly of Japan’s hostess club culture and the country’s criminal justice system.
The narrative follows the desperate search for Lucie, her family’s emotional turmoil, and the subsequent trial of her suspected killer, Joji Obara. Parry provides an in-depth portrayal of the complex characters involved, the cultural clashes, and the challenges faced by the Blackman family as they navigate a foreign legal system.
While unravelling the mystery of Lucie’s disappearance and the subsequent investigation, the book raises larger questions about justice, cultural differences, and the impact of crime on victims and their families.
Total Pages– 465 pages
Language- English
Goodreads Rating– 3.78
Amazon Rating– 4.1
If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 15 hours and 30 minutes to finish People Who Eat Darkness by Richard Lloyd Parry.
The Alienist (1994)
by Caleb Carr
A gripping historical thriller set in 19th-century New York City, the story follows Dr. Laszlo Kreizler, an alienist (a term used for a psychologist at the time), as he investigates a series of gruesome murders targeting young male prostitutes.
Kreizler, along with a team of experts including newspaper illustrator John Schuyler Moore, police secretary Sara Howard, and two Jewish brothers, detective sergeants Marcus and Lucius Isaacson, delve into the dark underbelly of the city, navigating the corrupt police force, political tensions, and social prejudices of the era.
Through meticulous forensic analysis and psychological profiling, they uncover a trail of clues that leads them closer to a deranged serial killer. As they confront their own fears and personal demons, they race against time to stop the murderer before he claims another victim.
“The Devil in the White City” and “The Alienist” share similarities in their historical settings, focus on criminal investigations, exploration of emerging forensic and psychological techniques, and complex character development.
Total Pages– 498 pages
Language- English
Goodreads Rating– 4.06
Amazon Rating– 4.4
If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 16 hours and 36 minutes to finish The Alienist by Caleb Carr.
Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption (2010)
by Laura Hillenbrand
A remarkable and inspiring true story of resilience, survival, and the indomitable human spirit, the book follows the incredible journey of Louis Zamperini, an Olympic runner turned World War II bombardier, who finds himself stranded in the Pacific Ocean after a plane crash.
Hillenbrand’s meticulous research and storytelling prowess bring Zamperini’s harrowing experiences to life, capturing the horrors of war, the brutality of Japanese prisoner-of-war camps, and the physical and mental challenges he faced. Despite enduring unimaginable hardships, Zamperini never loses his will to live or his determination to overcome adversity.
What sets “Unbroken” apart is Hillenbrand’s ability to delve into Zamperini’s inner world, exploring the psychological impact of his ordeals and highlighting the power of forgiveness and redemption. The book not only offers a gripping wartime narrative but also delves into themes of resilience, faith, and the strength of the human spirit. If these aspects of ‘The Devil in the White City’ excited you, I’d strongly suggest you to read this book.
Total Pages– 475 pages
Language- English
Goodreads Rating– 4.38
Amazon Rating– 4.7
If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 15 hours and 50 minutes to finish Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand.
The Midnight Assassin: Panic, Scandal, and the Hunt for America’s First Serial Killer (2016)
by Skip Hollandsworth
A very interesting intersection of history and suspense, this novel delves into a chilling and lesser-known chapter of American history, recounting the true story of a series of brutal murders that occurred in Austin, Texas, in the late 1800s. The book captures the panic and fear that gripped the city as a mysterious killer known as the “Midnight Assassin” terrorized the community.
Hollandsworth meticulously reconstructs the events, examining the investigations, the social climate of the time, and the impact of the crimes on the city’s psyche, which will remind you so much of ‘The Devil in the White City.’ He introduces readers to a cast of colorful characters, from law enforcement officials to journalists, as they work to unravel the identity of the elusive killer.
“The Midnight Assassin” offers a captivating blend of historical research, true crime narrative, and a deep exploration of the era’s societal complexities. Hollandsworth’s writing is engaging and immersive, painting a vivid picture of the time period while keeping readers on the edge of their seats. It is a must-read for fans of true crime and those interested in American history.
Total Pages– 321 pages
Language- English
Goodreads Rating– 3.62
Amazon Rating– 4.0
If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 10 hours and 42 minutes to finish The Midnight Assassin by Skip Hollandsworth.
Into Thin Air (1997)
by Jon Krakauer
The book delves into the harrowing events that unfolded during a climbing season marked by a combination of factors, including unpredictable weather conditions, overcrowding, and human errors.
Krakauer, an experienced mountaineer and journalist, was originally assigned to write an article about the commercialization of Everest climbing. However, he joined an expedition led by renowned guide Rob Hall as a client to gather personal insights. Little did he know that he would soon become part of a tragedy that would claim the lives of eight climbers, including Hall.
As Krakauer and his team push toward the summit, they face extreme physical challenges, altitude sickness, and the inherent dangers of climbing the world’s tallest peak. But the situation takes a turn for the worse when a violent storm strikes, leaving climbers stranded, disoriented, and struggling for survival in the so-called “Death Zone” above 26,000 feet.
Total Pages– 368 pages
Language- English
Goodreads Rating– 4.28
Amazon Rating– 4.6
If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 12 hours and 16 minutes to finish Into Thin Air by Jon Krakauer.
The Boys in the Boat: Nine Americans and Their Epic Quest for Gold (2013)
by Daniel James Brown
‘The Boys in the Boat: Nine Americans and Their Epic Quest for Gold’ by Daniel James Brown is a remarkable and inspiring true story that transports readers to the world of competitive rowing during the Great Depression. The book follows the journey of nine working-class young men from the University of Washington as they come together to form an unlikely crew team and pursue their dreams of competing in the 1936 Berlin Olympics.
The author masterfully weaves together personal narratives, historical context, and the intricacies of rowing to create a compelling narrative. He dives into the lives of the individual rowers, highlighting their struggles, triumphs, and the challenges they face both on and off the water. The characters are richly developed, making it easy to become emotionally invested in their journey.
Furthermore, the book provides a fascinating glimpse into the social and political climate of the time, particularly the rise of Nazi Germany and the implications it had on the Olympics. It underscores the power of sports as a unifying force and a means to transcend societal barriers.
Total Pages– 404 pages
Language- English
Goodreads Rating– 4.38
Amazon Rating– 4.6
If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 13 hours and 28 minutes to finish The Boys in the Boat by Daniel James Brown.
Under the Banner of Heaven: A Story of Violent Faith (2003)
by Jon Krakauer
This novel is for all the true-crime buffs out there. It is a thought-provoking and disturbing exploration of the darker side of religious fundamentalism. The book delves into the history and practices of the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (FLDS) and the chilling story of a double murder committed in the name of religious zealotry.
Krakauer weaves together meticulous research, firsthand accounts, and historical context to shed light on the complexities of the FLDS and its roots in the Mormon faith. He examines the controversial teachings, polygamous practices, and authoritarian leadership that have shaped the lives of FLDS members, while also delving into the historical backdrop of early Mormonism.
By examining the case of Ron and Dan Lafferty, brothers who brutally killed their sister-in-law and her baby in what they believed was a divine revelation, Krakauer exposes the destructive power of religious extremism and the profound influence it can have on individuals’ actions. It raises important questions about the nature of faith, the boundaries of religious freedom, and the potential for extremism to manifest within any belief system.
Total Pages– 400 pages
Language- English
Goodreads Rating– 4.00
Amazon Rating– 4.4
If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 13 hours and 20 minutes to finish Under the Banner by Jon Krakauer.
Conclusion to Books like Devil in the White City
And that concludes the list for books like Devil in the White City!
Each of these books like Devil in the White City promises to transport you to different times and places, immersing you in intriguing narratives and compelling characters. From true crime stories to historical mysteries, this curated list offers a diverse range of options for every avid reader. So, dive into these captivating reads and continue your exploration of fascinating worlds and the darker side of history. Happy reading!
However, if you want more books like Devil in the White City beyond the list above, you should consider-
- Isaac’s Storm by Erik Larson
- Midnight in the Garden of Good & Evil by John Berendt
- The Professor and the Madman and Krakatoa: The Day the World Exploded by Simon Winchester
- Thunderstruck by Erik Larson
- The Library Book by Susan Orlean
- Perfume: The Story of a Murderer by Patrick Suskind
- Against the Day by Thomas Pynchon
- In Cold Blood by Truman Capote
- City of Scoundrels by Gary Krist
- Death in the City of Light by David King