Happy Like Murderers

by Gordon Burn
Happy Like Murderers cover
Good Books rating 4.0
True Crime
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  • ID: 2808
  • Added: 2025-10-16
  • Updated: 2025-10-16
  • ISBN: 9780571265060
  • Publisher: Faber & Faber
  • Published: 2011-09-01
  • Formats: 4
  • Reviews: 3

Happy Like Murderers delves into the disturbing dynamic between Fred and Rosemary West, a couple who committed unspeakable acts while maintaining a facade of normalcy. Gordon Burn's powerful narrative is based on extensive research, providing a harrowing look at their lives and crimes. The book is not just a retelling of events but an exploration of the psychological and social factors that allowed such horrors to occur. It's a stark reminder of the darkness that can lurk beneath the surface of everyday life. /n/n This seminal work of investigative journalism is both brilliant and bleak, offering a compelling and upsetting true crime account. With a new introduction by Benjamin Myers, the book is a testament to Burn's skill as a writer and journalist, making it a must-read for those interested in the darker aspects of human behavior.

Reviews
The Guardian · 2019-09-26
chilling 4.50

The book delves into the dark and unsettling aspects of the Wests' crimes, offering a unique perspective on the societal and cultural context that allowed such horrors to occur. It is a fearless exploration that challenges the reader's understanding of evil.

The Guardian's review highlights how Gordon Burn's 'Happy Like Murderers' fearlessly explores the appalling crimes of Fred and Rose West. The reviewer appreciates Burn's ability to delve into the unseen sides of the country and the societal factors that contributed to these horrific acts. The book is seen as a stark and unflinching look at the darker aspects of human nature, providing a chilling insight into the minds of the perpetrators. The reviewer commends Burn's courage in tackling such a disturbing subject matter, making it a compelling and thought-provoking read.

Quick quotes

    Burn's account of the Wests' appalling crimes fearlessly explored an unseen side of the country.

    The book is a stark and unflinching look at the darker aspects of human nature.

    Burn's courage in tackling such a disturbing subject matter is commendable.

London Review of Books · John Burnside · 1998-12-10
unsettling 4.00

The book provides a comprehensive exploration of the lives of Fred and Rosemary West, offering a deep dive into their disturbing relationship. It is a compelling and unsettling read that sheds light on the darker aspects of criminal history.

John Burnside's review in the London Review of Books highlights how 'Happy Like Murderers' by Gordon Burn sets out to explore the lives of Fred and Rosemary West in detail. Burnside appreciates the book's comprehensive exploration of the couple's disturbing relationship and their place in recent British criminal history. The reviewer finds the book compelling and unsettling, providing a deep dive into the minds of two of the most notorious figures in crime. The book is seen as a significant contribution to the true crime genre, offering a chilling and thought-provoking read.

Quick quotes

    It sets out to explore the lives of Fred and Rosemary West – along with Peter Sutcliffe, the most notorious figures in recent British criminal history.

    The book is a comprehensive exploration of the couple's disturbing relationship.

    A deep dive into the minds of two of the most notorious figures in crime.

The Independent · 1998-09-28
disturbing 3.50

The book is praised for its detailed account of the Wests' crimes but is criticized for a false note that disrupts the narrative flow. It is a tale of horror that leaves a lasting impact on the reader.

The Independent's review acknowledges Gordon Burn's detailed and thorough account of Fred and Rose West's crimes in 'Happy Like Murderers'. However, the reviewer notes a false note in the narrative that disrupts the overall flow of the book. Despite this, the book is described as a tale of horror that leaves a lasting impact on the reader. The reviewer appreciates the depth of research and the chilling portrayal of the events, making it a significant work in the true crime genre.

Quick quotes

    An account of two people - Fred and Rose West - who lived together, raised (and killed) children, provided sexual services for anyone interested.

    The book is a tale of horror that leaves a lasting impact on the reader.

    The detailed and thorough account of the Wests' crimes is both chilling and disturbing.

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