The Stranger Beside Me

by Ann Rule
The Stranger Beside Me cover
Good Books rating 4.42
True Crime
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Waterstones
Paperback • £12.99
Amazon
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Technical
  • ID: 868
  • Added: 2025-09-21
  • Updated: 2025-10-16
  • ISBN: 9781416559597
  • Publisher: Simon and Schuster
  • Published: 2008-12-30
  • Formats: 23
  • Reviews: 4

The Stranger Beside Me is a harrowing true crime narrative that delves into the disturbing dual life of Ted Bundy, a charming and intelligent man who secretly led a life of violence and murder. The author, a close friend and colleague of Bundy's, recounts her personal experiences and the shocking realization that the man she knew was a savage serial killer. This updated edition includes a new chapter that provides further insight into the case and its aftermath. /n/nThe book offers a unique perspective on the infamous Ted Bundy case, blending personal memoir with investigative journalism. It explores themes of trust, deception, and the dark side of human nature, making it a gripping and thought-provoking read for those interested in true crime and psychological profiling.

Reviews
Goodreads · 2025-10-16
chilling 4.50

The book is unique in its intimate portrayal of Ted Bundy, offering a chilling and jarring perspective that defies expectations. It remains as frightening and compelling as when it was first published.

This review highlights the book's unique intimacy with Ted Bundy, making it a standout in true crime literature. The reviewer emphasizes how the book's chilling and jarring nature has endured over time, making it a must-read for those interested in the genre. They appreciate the way Ann Rule's personal connection to Bundy adds a layer of complexity and horror to the narrative. The reviewer also notes that the book's impact has not diminished, making it a timeless piece of true crime writing.

Quick quotes

    Utterly unique in its astonishing intimacy, as jarringly frightening as when it first appeared

    Ann Rule's The Stranger Beside Me defies our expectation

    The book remains as frightening and compelling as when it first appeared

Reddit - r/books · 2025-10-13
engaging 4.70

The book is highly engaging and hard to put down, with Ann Rule's respectful treatment of the subject matter standing out. It is considered a great introduction to true crime.

This Reddit user found 'The Stranger Beside Me' to be an incredibly engaging read that they couldn't put down. They appreciate Ann Rule's respectful approach to the true crime genre, which makes the book both compelling and respectful to the victims. The reviewer recommends it as a great starting point for anyone interested in true crime, praising Rule's ability to balance the horrific nature of the crimes with a thoughtful narrative.

Quick quotes

    This was the first Ann Rule book I read and felt the same, couldn't put it down.

    She does true crime very well, very respectfully.

    I'd recommend this to anyone interested in true crime, it's a great introduction.

foyles.co.uk · Unknown · 2025-09-21
harrowing 4.00

The Stranger Beside Me is a chilling and insightful account of Ted Bundy, offering a unique perspective from someone who knew him personally. It raises questions about the nature of evil and the ability to hide in plain sight.

The Stranger Beside Me provides a deeply unsettling yet fascinating look into the life of Ted Bundy, as seen through the eyes of someone who was close to him. The author's personal experiences add a layer of authenticity and horror to the narrative, making it a compelling read for those interested in true crime. While the book is well-researched and engaging, it can be quite disturbing due to the nature of the subject matter. The exploration of Bundy's charm and the way he manipulated those around him is particularly intriguing, but it also serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of trusting appearances.

Quick quotes

    The author's personal experiences add a layer of authenticity and horror to the narrative.

    The exploration of Bundy's charm and the way he manipulated those around him is particularly intriguing.

    The book is well-researched and engaging, but it can be quite disturbing due to the nature of the subject matter.

Baddie Book Reviews · 2025-02-09
harrowing 4.50

The book is a harrowing account filled with sadness and pain, detailing the crimes of Ted Bundy. It is a deeply unsettling read that captures the horror of his actions.

This review highlights the emotional weight of the book, describing it as a page-turner that doesn't shy away from the grim details. The reviewer emphasizes the book's ability to convey the pain and suffering caused by Bundy's crimes, making it a powerful and disturbing read. They appreciate Ann Rule's respectful approach to the victims and her thorough investigation, which adds depth to the narrative.

Quick quotes

    A book filled page to page with sadness, hurt, pain, and horrifying images, all to describe the crimes of Ted Bundy.

    Ann Rule's writing is both respectful and thorough, ensuring that the victims' stories are told with dignity.

    The book is a chilling reminder of the evil that can lurk behind a seemingly normal facade.

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