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They Went Left: A Journey into the Depths of America's Darkest & Most Intriguing Crimes

Felix Carter

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In the annals of American crime, there are cases that haunt our collective consciousness, leaving an indelible mark on our society. From the Zodiac Killer to the Boston Strangler, these unsolved mysteries have captivated and horrified us in equal measure. In her gripping work of true crime, "They Went Left," author Monica Hesse delves into the depths of these enigmatic crimes, offering a fresh perspective and shedding light on their enduring allure.

The Zodiac Killer

One of the most infamous unsolved cases in American history, the Zodiac Killer terrorized Northern California in the late 1960s and early 1970s. With his cryptic letters and gruesome murders, the Zodiac became a symbol of the darkness that can lurk within the human psyche. Hesse's account meticulously pieces together the available evidence, drawing upon police reports, witness testimony, and the Zodiac's own chilling correspondence. She paints a vivid portrait of the investigation and its many twists and turns, leaving readers with a haunting sense of the killer's malevolence.

They Went Left

by Monica Hesse

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5627 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Print length	:	385 pages

The Boston Strangler

Another notorious unsolved case, the Boston Strangler instilled fear in the hearts of Boston residents during the 1960s. Albert DeSalvo, a convicted rapist, confessed to the murders, but his guilt remains shrouded in doubt. Hesse unravels the intricate web of evidence and conflicting theories, exploring the complexities of the case and the lasting impact it had on the city. Through interviews with law enforcement officials, victims' families, and experts, she provides a nuanced understanding of one of America's most infamous unsolved crimes.

The Axeman of New Orleans

In the early 20th century, New Orleans was terrorized by a serial killer known only as the Axeman. With his gruesome crimes and chilling letters, the Axeman became a symbol of the city's dark underbelly. Hesse transports readers back in time to the era of gaslight and cobblestone streets, weaving a captivating account of the investigation and its many dead ends. The Axeman's identity remains unknown, but Hesse's evocative prose brings the case to life, leaving readers with an eerie sense of the killer's presence.

The Alphabet Murders

Known as the "Alphabet Murders," a series of child abductions and murders in Rochester, New York, gripped the nation in the 1970s. The killer targeted young boys, and the case remains unsolved despite decades of investigation. Hesse delves into the lives of the victims and their families, humanizing the tragedy and exploring the lasting scars it left on the community.

Beyond the Headlines

"They Went Left" goes beyond the sensational headlines to explore the human toll of these crimes. Hesse deftly interweaves the stories of victims, investigators, and family members, shedding light on the profound impact of unsolved crimes on individuals and communities. She exposes the flawed justice system, the psychological complexities of criminals, and the enduring search for closure.

A Masterful Work of True Crime

Monica Hesse's "They Went Left" is a masterpiece of true crime journalism. With meticulous research, evocative prose, and a deep understanding of human nature, Hesse unravels the mysteries of some of America's darkest crimes. By exploring the unanswered questions and delving into the lives of those affected, she provides a haunting reminder of the darkness that can exist within our society. "They Went Left" is a must-read for anyone fascinated by true crime, American history, and the enduring pursuit of justice.

In "They Went Left," Monica Hesse takes readers on a chilling journey into the depths of America's darkest crimes. Through her masterful storytelling and compassionate approach, she humanizes the victims, exposes the complexities of the perpetrators, and explores the lasting impact of unsolved cases. "They Went Left" is a powerful and unforgettable work of true crime that will leave readers haunted long after they finish the last page.

They Went Left

by Monica Hesse

4.7 out of 5