Unmasked: My Life Solving America's Cold Cases

Unmasked: My Life Solving America's Cold Cases cover
Good Books rating 4.33
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Technical
  • ID: 2603
  • Added: 2025-10-15
  • Updated: 2025-10-16
  • ISBN: 9781250622822
  • Publisher: Celadon Books
  • Published: 2022-04-26
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Paul Holes, the detective who famously solved the Golden State Killer case, delivers a raw and unflinching memoir about his career and the toll it has taken on his life. From the high-profile cases like Laci Peterson and Jaycee Dugard to the decades-long hunt for the Golden State Killer, Holes reflects on his unwavering dedication to solving crimes and bringing closure to victims' families. His narrative is not just about the thrill of the chase but also about the personal sacrifices—relationships, joy, and even fatherhood—that came with his obsession. As Holes grapples with the darkness of his work and the emotional weight of his choices, he offers a deeply human perspective on the true cost of pursuing justice. His story is both a testament to his professional achievements and a haunting exploration of the personal price he has paid. Through his experiences, Holes raises profound questions about the nature of obsession, sacrifice, and the enduring impact of evil.

Reviews
Reddit - r/EARONS · 2025-10-15
Fascinating 4.50

The reviewer discusses Paul Holes' work on various cold cases, including the Emmon Bodfish murder and the Carla Walker murder.

We learn of strange characters and other cases like the Emmon Bodfish murder. The Carla Walker murder (why is Holes investigating a Texas cold ...


Quick quotes

    We learn of strange characters and other cases like the Emmon Bodfish murder.

    The Carla Walker murder (why is Holes investigating a Texas cold ...

    Amazing read. If you are into true crime and a dark read, this is the book.

Goodreads · 2025-10-15
Compelling 4.50

The reviewer finds the book compelling and praises Paul Holes as a true crime superhero, highlighting his passion for solving cold cases.

This book is so freaking good. It's very compelling. Holes is a true crime superhero; a gift. But with a mind like his and a passion for solving cold cases- ...


Quick quotes

    This book is so freaking good.

    Holes is a true crime superhero; a gift.

    With a mind like his and a passion for solving cold cases- ...

BookPage · 2022-06-29
Intriguing 4.00

The reviewer discusses the personal and professional life of Paul Holes, highlighting his work as a cold case investigator and its impact on his family.

Retired cold case investigator Paul Holes' memoir looks at what catching murderers, kidnappers and rapists does to a husband and father.


Quick quotes

    Retired cold case investigator Paul Holes' memoir looks at what catching murderers, kidnappers and rapists does to a husband and father.

    The narrative is also occasionally gruesome.

    Holes writes of panic attacks and PTSD, of marriages threatened and undone by his obsession to exact justice.