American Predator: The Hunt for the Most Meticulous Serial Killer of the 21st Century by Maureen Callahan is a harrowing tale about the most prolific serial killer that you have probably never heard about. Israel Keyes is responsible for 3 confirmed deaths and another 8+ likely. The book implies it could be much more.

The fascinating part about this story is how he was caught more by fluke than serious police work or profiling. His own hubris was responsible for his capture and his admissions allowed the FBI to connect him to many other unsolved deaths. The most disturbing part is just how methodical and casual his plans and decision were. His emotionless explanation of his methods is downright scary.

Sure, a lot of the book was written from his interviews so could be exaggerated, but many of the things he explained were later revealed as true. It should be a bit humbling to law enforcement and eye-opening to the average person.

One thing that I found interesting was that he was quick to say that he didn’t risk “taking” someone in Texas because they are “so many cops” and “everyone is armed there.” God Bless Texas!

by Chris Doelle