American Predator

by Maureen Callahan
American Predator cover
Good Books rating 4.5
True Crime
Technical
  • ID: 3716
  • Added: 2025-10-20
  • Updated: 2025-10-20
  • ISBN: 9780698191068
  • Publisher: Penguin
  • Published: 2019-07-02
  • Reviews: 3

Israel Keyes, a name lesser-known than Ted Bundy or Jeffrey Dahmer, was one of the most terrifying serial killers in modern history. His methods were meticulous and calculating, involving 'kill kits' buried across the U.S. and a ability to blend back into normal life. Maureen Callahan's investigative journalism uncovers the shocking details of how Keyes evaded capture for over a decade, leaving a trail of unsolved crimes. Her work delves into classified FBI files and interviews, revealing the mind of a relentless predator and the limitations of law enforcement in stopping him.

Reviews
Baddie Book Reviews · 2023-11-15
chilling 4.25

The book is a chilling narration on the life, crimes, and capture of serial killer Israel Keyes. It's a well-researched and compelling read that sheds light on the darker side of human nature.

Baddie Book Reviews describes 'American Predator' as a chilling and well-researched account of the life and crimes of Israel Keyes. The reviewer appreciates the depth of research and the compelling narrative that brings to light the darker side of human nature. The book is praised for its ability to keep the reader engaged and its insightful exploration of the mind of a serial killer. The reviewer also notes that the book is not for the faint-hearted but is a must-read for true crime enthusiasts.

Quick quotes

    This book review focuses on 'American Predator' by Maureen Callahan, a chilling narration on the life, crimes, and capture of serial killer Israel Keyes.

    The book is a well-researched and compelling read that sheds light on the darker side of human nature.

    The narrative is chilling and thought-provoking, offering a deep dive into the mind of a monster.

The Washington Post · Maureen Callahan · 2019-07-03
chilling 4.50

The book explores the unusual tactics of Israel Keyes, highlighting his chilling and meticulous methods. It delves into the limitations of traditional law enforcement in catching such a predator.

Maureen Callahan's 'American Predator' is a gripping exploration of the life and crimes of Israel Keyes, a serial killer whose methods were both unusual and terrifying. The book reveals how Keyes' meticulous planning and ability to evade detection made him a particularly dangerous predator. Callahan also highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement in tracking and catching such a sophisticated criminal. The narrative is chilling and thought-provoking, offering a deep dive into the mind of a monster and the systems that failed to stop him.

Quick quotes

    Maureen Callahan's true-crime book explores the unusual tactics of Israel Keyes.

    Callahan takes us on a journey into the chilling, nightmarish mind of a relentless killer.

    The book reveals the chilling playbook of a serial killer who was able to evade detection for so long.

Tampa Bay Times · 2019-07-03
bone-chilling 4.75

The book is hooked by the disturbing story of Samantha Koenig's abduction, providing a bone-chilling portrait of a monster. It's a gripping and unsettling read that stays with the reader long after finishing.

The Tampa Bay Times review of 'American Predator' starts with the harrowing account of 18-year-old Samantha Koenig's abduction, which immediately draws the reader in. The book is described as a bone-chilling portrait of Israel Keyes, a serial killer whose crimes are both disturbing and fascinating. The reviewer praises the author's ability to create a gripping narrative that keeps the reader on the edge of their seat. The book is not for the faint-hearted, but it's a compelling exploration of the mind of a monster and the impact of his crimes on victims and society.

Quick quotes

    American Predator hooked me first with the disturbing story of the abduction of 18-year-old Samantha Koenig from a coffee kiosk in Anchorage, Alaska.

    This is a bone-chilling portrait of a monster.

    The book is a gripping and unsettling read that stays with the reader long after finishing.

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