Scoundrel

by Sarah Weinman
Scoundrel cover
Good Books rating 4.25
True Crime
Buy online
Amazon
Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 10933
  • Added: 2026-02-09
  • Updated: 2026-02-16
  • ISBN: 9780062899798
  • Publisher: HarperCollins
  • Published: 2022-02-22
  • Reviews: 3

Scoundrel by Sarah Weinman delves into the astonishing and tragic tale of Edgar Smith, a convicted murderer who managed to manipulate the American criminal justice system and the public with the help of conservative thinker William F. Buckley. Through a series of bizarre twists, Smith's story explores themes of innocence, public complicity, and the dark side of the prison reform movement./n/nWeinman's meticulous research and sympathetic portrayal of those affected by Smith's crimes provide a stark look at how one man's lies and manipulations could lead to his freedom, fame, and ultimately, another attempt at murder. This book is a forgotten part of American history that sheds light on the intersection of justice, civil rights, and the power of persuasion.

Reviews
The Nation · 2022-06-16
intriguing 4.25

The book tells the story of how a conservative journalist and editor ended up befriending a convicted murderer, highlighting the complexities of their relationship.

The Nation's review of Scoundrel delves into the intricate relationship between conservative journalist William F. Buckley Jr. and convicted murderer Edgar Smith. The reviewer is fascinated by the complexities of their friendship and the ethical dilemmas it presents. The book is seen as a profound exploration of how ideology and personal beliefs can cloud judgment and lead to unexpected alliances. It's a story that raises important questions about the nature of advocacy and the potential for manipulation within the legal system.

Quick quotes

    In her new book, Scoundrel, Sarah Weinman tells the story of how a conservative journalist and editor ended up befriending a convicted murderer.

    The book is seen as a profound exploration of how ideology and personal beliefs can cloud judgment.

    A story that raises important questions about the nature of advocacy and the potential for manipulation within the legal system.

The Saturday Reader · 2022-05-21
thought-provoking 4.00

Weinman lays out the basics of Smith's life in the introduction, setting the stage for a tale that is not a typical redemption story.

The Saturday Reader's review of Scoundrel highlights Sarah Weinman's thorough introduction to Edgar Smith's life, which sets the tone for a story that is far from a typical redemption narrative. The reviewer appreciates the detailed setup, which prepares readers for the complex and unsettling journey ahead. The book is praised for its unflinching look at the consequences of Smith's actions and the broader implications of his manipulation of the system. It's a story that challenges readers to think critically about justice, advocacy, and the power of persuasion.

Quick quotes

    Weinman lays out the basics of Smith's life in the introduction, so the reader goes into the book with an awareness that this is not a tale of redemption.

    The book is praised for its unflinching look at the consequences of Smith's actions.

    A story that challenges readers to think critically about justice, advocacy, and the power of persuasion.

NPR · 2022-02-22
thrilling 4.50

The book excels as an in-depth exploration of how outside influence and support can affect the criminal justice system. It's a chilling and deeply satisfying read.

Sarah Weinman's Scoundrel is a meticulously researched and gripping account of how a convicted killer managed to manipulate the system and secure his freedom. The narrative is both chilling and deeply satisfying, shedding light on the broader implications of outside influence on the criminal justice system. It's a story that will leave readers both fascinated and unsettled, highlighting the complexities and potential pitfalls of advocacy and support networks within the legal system.

Quick quotes

    Sarah Weinman's book excels as an in-depth exploration of how outside influence and support can affect the criminal justice system.

    A chilling and deeply satisfying read, Scoundrel injects life into a story nearly forgotten by time.

    The astonishing story of a murderer who conned the people around him--including conservative thinker William F. Buckley--into helping set him free.

Appears in Lists