Killing For Company

by Brian Masters
Killing For Company cover
Good Books rating 3.83
True Crime
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Paperback • £10.99
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Technical
  • ID: 2802
  • Added: 2025-10-16
  • Updated: 2025-10-16
  • Publisher: Dell Publishing Company
  • Published: 1994-01-01
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Killing for Company delves into the disturbing case of Dennis Nilsen, who murdered 15 men over four years, keeping their bodies as companions in his home. The book uncovers the psychological depths of Nilsen's madness and the horrifying methods he used to dispose of his victims, ultimately leading to his capture when clogged pipes revealed his crimes. This is a harrowing account of one of the largest mass murders in English history, offering a glimpse into the mind of a killer. /n/n The narrative provides a detailed examination of Nilsen's life, his interactions with his victims, and the aftermath of his arrest. It also explores the investigative process that led to the discovery of his crimes, highlighting the meticulous work of the authorities involved. This book is a stark reminder of the capacity for evil within humanity and the importance of understanding such cases to prevent future atrocities.

Reviews
The StoryGraph · emilytsreads · 2025-10-16
insightful 3.50

The book is found to be long-winded at times, particularly in the early chapters, but offers a detailed account of Nilsen's crimes and psychology. It's a mixed but ultimately insightful read.

Emilytsreads from The StoryGraph found 'Killing for Company' to be a bit long-winded, especially in the early chapters where the author spends a lot of time discussing Dennis Nilsen's background. However, they appreciate the detailed account of Nilsen's crimes and psychology, making it an insightful read despite its length. The review suggests that while the book may not be a quick read, it offers valuable insights into the mind of a serial killer, making it worthwhile for true crime enthusiasts.

Quick quotes

    I found the book a little long-winded at times, particular in the early chapters.

    The author spends a lot of time discussing what Dennis Nilsen was like as a child and young man.

    It offers a detailed account of Nilsen's crimes and psychology.

Vocal Media · 2025-10-16
thought-provoking 4.00

The book challenges the use of the term 'evil' to describe Nilsen, offering a nuanced exploration of his psychology. It's a thought-provoking read that delves into the complexities of human behavior.

Vocal Media's review of 'Killing for Company' highlights Brian Masters' reluctance to use the term 'evil' to describe Dennis Nilsen, preferring instead to explore the complexities of Nilsen's psychology. They find the book thought-provoking and nuanced, offering a deep dive into the mind of a serial killer. The review suggests that Masters' approach provides a more comprehensive understanding of Nilsen's actions, making it a compelling read for those interested in true crime and psychology.

Quick quotes

    Brian Masters himself is against the word 'evil' as it is an adjective that opens up so many questions.

    The book offers a nuanced exploration of Nilsen's psychology.

    It's a thought-provoking read that delves into the complexities of human behavior.

GQ Magazine · 2020-09-17
disturbing 4.00

The book provides a chilling insight into the mind of Dennis Nilsen, revealing the disturbing psychology of a serial killer. The author's approach is both thorough and unsettling, offering a unique perspective on Nilsen's crimes.

GQ Magazine's piece on 'Killing for Company' delves into the disturbing psychology of Dennis Nilsen, as explored by Brian Masters. They highlight how Masters' interviews and letters with Nilsen offer a unique and chilling insight into the mind of a serial killer. The review emphasizes the thoroughness of Masters' approach, which makes the book both a compelling and unsettling read. It's a book that doesn't shy away from the darkest aspects of human nature, providing a deep dive into the mind of one of Britain's most notorious killers.

Quick quotes

    In 1983, Brian Masters met the serial killer Dennis Nilsen for a series of interviews and letters that eventually became Killing For Company.

    The book provides a chilling insight into the mind of Dennis Nilsen.

    Masters' approach is both thorough and unsettling, offering a unique perspective on Nilsen's crimes.

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