What do you think?
Rate this book
The Vampire Next Door: True Story of the Vampire Rapist and Serial Killer
John Crutchley seemed to be living the American Dream. Good-looking and blessed with a genius level IQ, he had a prestigious, white-collar job at a prominent government defense contractor, where he held top secret security clearance and handled projects for NASA and the Pentagon. To all outward appearances, he was a hard-working, successful family man with a lavish new house, a devoted wife, and a healthy young son.
But, he concealed a hidden side of his personality, a dark secret tied to a hunger for blood and the overriding need to kill. As one of the most prolific serial killers in American history, Crutchley committed at least twelve murders, and possibly nearly three dozen. His IQ elipsed that of Ted Bundy, and his body count may have as well. While he stalked the streets hunting his unsuspecting victims, the residents of a quiet Florida town slept soundly, oblivious to the dark creature in their midst, unaware of the vampire next door.
J.T. Hunter is an attorney with over fourteen years of experience practicing law, including criminal law and appeals, and he has significant training in criminal investigation techniques. He is also a college professor in Florida where his teaching interests focus on the intersection of criminal psychology, law, and literature. This is his debut true crime novel.
But, he concealed a hidden side of his personality, a dark secret tied to a hunger for blood and the overriding need to kill. As one of the most prolific serial killers in American history, Crutchley committed at least twelve murders, and possibly nearly three dozen. His IQ elipsed that of Ted Bundy, and his body count may have as well. While he stalked the streets hunting his unsuspecting victims, the residents of a quiet Florida town slept soundly, oblivious to the dark creature in their midst, unaware of the vampire next door.
J.T. Hunter is an attorney with over fourteen years of experience practicing law, including criminal law and appeals, and he has significant training in criminal investigation techniques. He is also a college professor in Florida where his teaching interests focus on the intersection of criminal psychology, law, and literature. This is his debut true crime novel.
365 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 11, 2014
209 people are currently reading
480 people want to read
About the author
J.T. Hunter
14 books189 followersJ.T. Hunter is an attorney with over fourteen years of experience practicing law, including criminal law and appeals, and he has significant training in criminal investigation techniques. He is also a college professor in Florida where his teaching interests focus on the intersection of criminal psychology, law, and literature.
JT's bestselling true crime books include:
Devil in The Darkness: True Story of Serial Killer ISRAEL KEYES
The Country Boy Killer: The True Story of Serial Killer Cody Legebokoff
In Colder Blood: True Story of the Walker Family Murder as depicted in Truman Capote’s, In Cold Blood
Deadly Deception: True Story of Tampa Serial Killer, Bobby Joe Long
Death Row Romeo: The True Story of Serial Killer Oscar Ray Bolin
The Vampire Next Door: True Story of the Vampire Rapist and Serial Killer
JT's bestselling true crime books include:
Devil in The Darkness: True Story of Serial Killer ISRAEL KEYES
The Country Boy Killer: The True Story of Serial Killer Cody Legebokoff
In Colder Blood: True Story of the Walker Family Murder as depicted in Truman Capote’s, In Cold Blood
Deadly Deception: True Story of Tampa Serial Killer, Bobby Joe Long
Death Row Romeo: The True Story of Serial Killer Oscar Ray Bolin
The Vampire Next Door: True Story of the Vampire Rapist and Serial Killer
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
February 15, 2020
Check out all of my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
The Vampire Next Door: True Story of the Vampire Rapist and Serial Killer by J.T. Hunter is a true crime story of a serial killer who was terrifying in his ability to hide his depravity.
John “JB” Crutchley is a good looking man with a genius IQ and working as an engineer. To his neighbors in Florida, he was a hard-working, quiet husband, father and neighbor. He was sometimes socially awkward and could hold a grudge, but these were just looked at as quirks. At one time he even held a top secret security clearance when he worked on projects for the Pentagon and NASA.
There was a dark side to JB’s personality that he kept behind closed doors. He enjoyed bondage, choking and hungered for blood. Women went missing in areas that JB lived. He was accused of at least twelve murders, but authorities believe there were many more.
I found this to be a well written true crime novel. Mr. Hunter writes an account that pulls you right into John Crutchley’s life. His research flows into a writing style that gives you all the information without being stark and feeling as though you are just reading an information dump. Mr. Hunter also does a wonderful job introducing the reader to Crutchley’s victims and the one woman who got away. At times, this killer reminded me of Ted Bundy and that made it even more chilling.
This book focuses as much on the victims and law enforcement officers, as it does the killer and the narrative flows perfectly to tie the whole story together throughout the book. The ending is not what I was expecting or hoping for, but this is not fiction and you cannot change the facts.
I highly recommend this true crime book and author. I am looking forward to checking out more of Mr. Hunter’s work.
The Vampire Next Door: True Story of the Vampire Rapist and Serial Killer by J.T. Hunter is a true crime story of a serial killer who was terrifying in his ability to hide his depravity.
John “JB” Crutchley is a good looking man with a genius IQ and working as an engineer. To his neighbors in Florida, he was a hard-working, quiet husband, father and neighbor. He was sometimes socially awkward and could hold a grudge, but these were just looked at as quirks. At one time he even held a top secret security clearance when he worked on projects for the Pentagon and NASA.
There was a dark side to JB’s personality that he kept behind closed doors. He enjoyed bondage, choking and hungered for blood. Women went missing in areas that JB lived. He was accused of at least twelve murders, but authorities believe there were many more.
I found this to be a well written true crime novel. Mr. Hunter writes an account that pulls you right into John Crutchley’s life. His research flows into a writing style that gives you all the information without being stark and feeling as though you are just reading an information dump. Mr. Hunter also does a wonderful job introducing the reader to Crutchley’s victims and the one woman who got away. At times, this killer reminded me of Ted Bundy and that made it even more chilling.
This book focuses as much on the victims and law enforcement officers, as it does the killer and the narrative flows perfectly to tie the whole story together throughout the book. The ending is not what I was expecting or hoping for, but this is not fiction and you cannot change the facts.
I highly recommend this true crime book and author. I am looking forward to checking out more of Mr. Hunter’s work.
February 5, 2020
I love the way The Vampire Next Door by J T Hunter was written. The story flows smoothly, drawing me in to the twisted story of John Crutchley.
Factual accounting, but J T Hunter writes with a flair, bringing to life the depraved and gruesome action John Crutchley, a serial killer,walks on a super dark side, not content with just killiing, but rapes and tortures for fun. It’s so hard to understand how someone can do these terrible thing, but I am fascinated trying to figure out what makes them tick.
One victim survives to give details that may never have been known otherwise.
He had a terrible upbringing, but I make no excuses for him. We all make choices, and he made some depraved ones. He is brilliant, a genius IQ, equivalent to Bill Gates, but socially and romantically inept. Some of the jobs he held are amazing, working for NASA, the pentagon, and other top secret clearance companies.
He is vicious. Delights in seeing terror and suffering in his victims. He was a thief and, even with a top secret clearance, he dealt drugs, because he could. He loved the thrill of getting away with it. Definitely shows his personality.
J T Hunter’s research includes letters written by him, interviews, police reports, etc. He is a Ted Bundy type of serial killer, coming across as the harmless guy net door, with a psychopathic ability to fake caring and able to manipulate others to do his bidding. Watch out when the dark comes to light. No conscience. No qualms about lying to achieve his ends.
Makes me sick, lying and whining, trying to invoke sympathy. Why does a serial killer think he deserves any mercy? It’s novels like this that leave me feeling angry, enraged, disgusted and totally pissed off…not only at the pathetic excuse for a human being, but the justice system and law enforcement.
I take some solace in the advancements that have been made in forensic science and investigation techniques, treating rape as the felonious violent crime it is and the changing of laws, where hopefully the punishment fits the crime.
I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of The Vampire Next Door by J T Hunter.
See more at fundinmental
Factual accounting, but J T Hunter writes with a flair, bringing to life the depraved and gruesome action John Crutchley, a serial killer,walks on a super dark side, not content with just killiing, but rapes and tortures for fun. It’s so hard to understand how someone can do these terrible thing, but I am fascinated trying to figure out what makes them tick.
One victim survives to give details that may never have been known otherwise.
He had a terrible upbringing, but I make no excuses for him. We all make choices, and he made some depraved ones. He is brilliant, a genius IQ, equivalent to Bill Gates, but socially and romantically inept. Some of the jobs he held are amazing, working for NASA, the pentagon, and other top secret clearance companies.
He is vicious. Delights in seeing terror and suffering in his victims. He was a thief and, even with a top secret clearance, he dealt drugs, because he could. He loved the thrill of getting away with it. Definitely shows his personality.
J T Hunter’s research includes letters written by him, interviews, police reports, etc. He is a Ted Bundy type of serial killer, coming across as the harmless guy net door, with a psychopathic ability to fake caring and able to manipulate others to do his bidding. Watch out when the dark comes to light. No conscience. No qualms about lying to achieve his ends.
Makes me sick, lying and whining, trying to invoke sympathy. Why does a serial killer think he deserves any mercy? It’s novels like this that leave me feeling angry, enraged, disgusted and totally pissed off…not only at the pathetic excuse for a human being, but the justice system and law enforcement.
I take some solace in the advancements that have been made in forensic science and investigation techniques, treating rape as the felonious violent crime it is and the changing of laws, where hopefully the punishment fits the crime.
I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of The Vampire Next Door by J T Hunter.
See more at fundinmental
December 29, 2016
This true account of the serial killer vampire rapist was the most different true crime book I have ever read. Very in-depth account of the crimes and the conviction of the killer. This book is not for the faint of heart as it is very graphic as it goes into the descriptions of the crimes and there are detailed photos. The author, J.T. Hunter, draws you into the story giving a background on the killer, his crimes, and the conviction. Giving it 4 stars.
February 4, 2022
Story 4/5
Narration 4/5
Narration 4/5
February 26, 2020
My apologies to the author, but this book, for me, is a train wreck. Some of my thoughts:
While the research seems solid, the book reads like summaries of various newspaper articles, with occasional author input along the way. The details are repetitious and could easily be condensed to half this book's length.
Yes, these are rapes and murders, sex crimes, but at times I felt like I was reading a bad porn fantasy. I suppose this was the author's attempt to get us into the killer's head, despite having absolutely no input from Crutchley or his victims. We're told one rape victim's thighs are "silky," which made me cringe. There is an absolute disrespect for the victims, in that the rapes are sensationalized in tone and detail. Dialogue is included, and yet it's clear that this is fiction coming from the author, not real words from Crutchley or his victims.
We're told what people are thinking at certain times and about certain situations, when the author couldn't possibly know what any of these people thought because he didn't interview anyone.
I got no real sense of Crutchley as a person. We're repeatedly told that he's brilliant, though I saw no evidence of such intelligence. We're told about childish tantrums and we're given an onslaught of his behavior regarding sex. By the end, that's all I knew about this man, who, in this book, is more caricature than intelligent killer.
Throughout the book, Crutchley is portrayed as cocky and self-assured, convinced, even after his arrest, that he'll be found innocent. And then suddenly he accepts a plea deal that keeps him in prison. But we don't know what happened that so abruptly changed his mind. Or maybe he was never really self-assured to begin with. I have no idea.
And, so, all I feel at the end is frustrated.
While the research seems solid, the book reads like summaries of various newspaper articles, with occasional author input along the way. The details are repetitious and could easily be condensed to half this book's length.
Yes, these are rapes and murders, sex crimes, but at times I felt like I was reading a bad porn fantasy. I suppose this was the author's attempt to get us into the killer's head, despite having absolutely no input from Crutchley or his victims. We're told one rape victim's thighs are "silky," which made me cringe. There is an absolute disrespect for the victims, in that the rapes are sensationalized in tone and detail. Dialogue is included, and yet it's clear that this is fiction coming from the author, not real words from Crutchley or his victims.
We're told what people are thinking at certain times and about certain situations, when the author couldn't possibly know what any of these people thought because he didn't interview anyone.
I got no real sense of Crutchley as a person. We're repeatedly told that he's brilliant, though I saw no evidence of such intelligence. We're told about childish tantrums and we're given an onslaught of his behavior regarding sex. By the end, that's all I knew about this man, who, in this book, is more caricature than intelligent killer.
Throughout the book, Crutchley is portrayed as cocky and self-assured, convinced, even after his arrest, that he'll be found innocent. And then suddenly he accepts a plea deal that keeps him in prison. But we don't know what happened that so abruptly changed his mind. Or maybe he was never really self-assured to begin with. I have no idea.
And, so, all I feel at the end is frustrated.
April 27, 2015
This is take 2 on writing a review for this book. Take one sounded like a review of the man and not a review of the book. We will hope I can do better.
Hunter does an excellent job discussing the victims, their experiences, their feelings, and when lucky their escapes. He covers the crimes Crutchley is accused of, the trial, and the ravings, letters, and discussions of Crutchley.
He manages to convey without as much judgment as I feel regarding the fact that Crutchley is suspected of having killed 30 women but no murder charges were ever filed against him. Hunter is fair in his evaluations and a very good writer. I was very impressed by the authors ability to draw and color the picture of the lives of the families of the women lost and their need to bring them home.
If you enjoy true crime novels I would highly recommend this book.
Hunter does an excellent job discussing the victims, their experiences, their feelings, and when lucky their escapes. He covers the crimes Crutchley is accused of, the trial, and the ravings, letters, and discussions of Crutchley.
He manages to convey without as much judgment as I feel regarding the fact that Crutchley is suspected of having killed 30 women but no murder charges were ever filed against him. Hunter is fair in his evaluations and a very good writer. I was very impressed by the authors ability to draw and color the picture of the lives of the families of the women lost and their need to bring them home.
If you enjoy true crime novels I would highly recommend this book.
March 1, 2020
Before I head into this review every since I can remember I have had a huge obsession with learning about serial killers. I find them very interesting and really want to know why the do the things that they do. This is the main reason I joined this tour and I’m so glad I did.
We follow the horrible violent crimes of John Crutchly also know as the vampire rapist due to his violent crime against many, many women.
I really enjoyed following the story of how all of this came about, how the police got involved and how he got caught. Throughout this story we also get background about other crimes that happened during John’s reign of terror for example Ted bundy, OJ Simpson, etc which I really liked and enjoyed learning about those other crimes too.
This was a really informative peace and gave great remembrance to the women who were hurt and killed throughout this horrible time.
We follow the horrible violent crimes of John Crutchly also know as the vampire rapist due to his violent crime against many, many women.
I really enjoyed following the story of how all of this came about, how the police got involved and how he got caught. Throughout this story we also get background about other crimes that happened during John’s reign of terror for example Ted bundy, OJ Simpson, etc which I really liked and enjoyed learning about those other crimes too.
This was a really informative peace and gave great remembrance to the women who were hurt and killed throughout this horrible time.
August 9, 2015
4.0 out of 5 stars A monster in sheep's clothing, August 8, 2015
By B. Mckee "beemac" (Alma, AR United States)
This review is from: The Vampire Next Door: The True Story of the Vampire Rapist, John Crutchley (Kindle Edition)
J. T. Hunter has written a compelling and well-researched account of John Brennan Crutchley, the Vampire Rapist, a demented serial killer who would have continued to kill without remorse but for a teenage victim, traumatized and weak from blood loss, who managed to escape.
The story covers the life of Crutchley and speculates on how many he killed. Unfortunately, law enforcement officials were never able to accumulate enough indisputable evidence to charge him with murder.
The book has a few typographical errors which I hope will be corrected for the benefit of future readers. This book is highly recommended reading for true crime fans. You've never seen anything quite like this.
By B. Mckee "beemac" (Alma, AR United States)
This review is from: The Vampire Next Door: The True Story of the Vampire Rapist, John Crutchley (Kindle Edition)
J. T. Hunter has written a compelling and well-researched account of John Brennan Crutchley, the Vampire Rapist, a demented serial killer who would have continued to kill without remorse but for a teenage victim, traumatized and weak from blood loss, who managed to escape.
The story covers the life of Crutchley and speculates on how many he killed. Unfortunately, law enforcement officials were never able to accumulate enough indisputable evidence to charge him with murder.
The book has a few typographical errors which I hope will be corrected for the benefit of future readers. This book is highly recommended reading for true crime fans. You've never seen anything quite like this.
December 7, 2014
A very compassionate approach to a true crime story. What affected me most about this book was how much time was spent detailing the lives of the victims and their families, the compassion with which they were portrayed, as well as the relentless efforts of law enforcement to catch this killer. A truly inspirational approach. Superbly researched and well-written, I highly recommend it to any True Crime fan. So glad to have read this and cannot wait for this author's next book!
September 1, 2015
3.5 stars
October 12, 2021
The vampire next door is a book I had been waiting for before it was ever even published.
In fact for a while I've often dreamed of being a true crime author and my first book would of been about John Brennan Crutchley. I first came across him in the early 2000s. Reading about the case, then I stumbled upon a short documentary about the case that aired on TV in an episode of some true crime series. Also in the 2000s. As I began to collect more and more books in 2005 I began to hope for a book about Crutchley. His case was just so weird, unique, and fascinating in so many ways. I wanted to know more and I often kept on the case. Often researching for any new info. I saw one news report of police officers going back through the evidence and they showed an evidence bag of a pair of handcuffs.
It was this searching that led me to stumbling upon this book very early on, before it was ever even available to buy. I immediately wanted it. I listened to the author give interviews with the lead investigator. It was published in 2014 and it would take me until near the end of 2018 to finally get a copy and read it in 2019.
The book is typical of true crime in terms of time line.
Most true crime books start off at a specific point in time but then go back in time and then go back to where it was before. It starts off with describing Crutchley's blood lust and then introduces us to the victim that got him caught. The author changes her name. Not exactly sure why because I know her name and have even seen her I.D. card which Crutchley stole as a trophy.
I really enjoyed the detail into the survivors background and what she was into.
Her boyfriend apparently gave her a red walkman and she listened to Madonna adnausum while vacationing at her boyfriend's place. I like details like that. Madonna was awesome in the 80s!
As a true crime fanatic and history buff who really appreciates trivia I really appreciated the author putting interesting historical facts and context in the story. It mentions the AIDS epidemic and even mentions the Unabomber. It also mentions movies such as Rambo and Back to the future coming out. Got to like that.
In a prison interview Crutchley said to the reporter "Over 11 years ago I was - Ma'am, I was unfulfilled. I felt - I had all the toys, I got everything everybody said I should get to be happy and I wasn't."
Reading this book and looking at Crutchley's life story and childhood that prison comment makes a lot of sense and is a constant theme in the book about Crutchley's life. Also a constant comment by Crutchley him self to several people.
Crutchley was incredibly hedonistic.
Crutchley had a genius level IQ and worked for the pentagon and NASA.
The book points out that only 3 months after he was caught the infamous Challenger explosion happened while the investigators were searching his office. Through the years Crutchley apparently killed a few of his coworkers and dumped their bodies on the premises. Incredibly arrogant.
I also came to the conclusion that Crutchley might of had a borderline personality disorder and I would be curious if he also suffered from OCD.
Another thing I really liked and enjoyed about the book is what is rarely ever done with true crime books. Typically when it comes to photos they can be found in basically a "photo section." ie all the photos are put together. Most probably for easy access to the photos in the book. It's also probably easier to edit since you don't have to think about where to put each photo. The photo section is also usually within the middle of the book. Some books have two photo sections placed evenly through the book.
Rarely do you get a true crime book where the photos are appropriately placed where they are relevant in the book. I have very few true crime books that do this and this book does exactly that. I was very pleased to see the author add photos of evidence, Crutchley childhood photos, adult photos of Crutchley enjoying him self, graphic sexual photos, and photos of his victims. I do wish the author shared more photos of victims, and not just their skulls and bones in some photos.
The looses it and becomes a little bit boring towards the end once Crutchley is convicted.
The investigators still tried to find the bodies and we learn a disgusting that. Actually I already knew about it before I read the book and it is reprehensible.
Jodi Arias in 2014 went on trial for murdering her ex boyfriend. All through out the trial the defense including Jodi made unsupported claims about her boyfriend; he was abusive, he was a pedophile, etc. Through out the media, zealots reporters were disgusted by the defense. After she was convicted and not given the death sentence we learned that Jodi in the beginning said she didn't want to "drag Alexanders name under the bus." and said she would confess to the murder. Instead the prosecutor rejected that confession and basically said "We are gonna have a trial and seek the death penalty." So we had a sensationalistic murder trial where Alexander was slandered and his family had to go to court every day and see the photos of his bloated body in the bathtub and hear Jodi accuse him of being a pedophile and raping her, etc.
In the Crutchley case, he early on wanted to confess. He was going to confess to 11 murders although he most probably killed more. He would also lead the investigators to his trophies that he had hidden after his bail and to the bodies. Some guy in charge named Speedy disliked one of the main investigators and rejected the offer saying they were going to seek the death penalty.
So because of this one guy we will never know the full extent of Crutchley's crimes and most probably will never ever find his trophies or the hidden bodies, although he left clues.
If someone in my family was murdered and the killler was going to confess and give us the body and yet someone in power refused simply because they wanted to seek the death penalty and to get one over on an investigator and show his power over them...I would be really angry and disgusted. This speedy guy is a scumbag.
A pretty good true crime book about a very interesting case.
What would of made it better? More photos of more victims, more details about certain victims.
It mentions two victims that were found around his work place. One was stuck between some rocks around the beach and another was in her car. I would of liked further details on those two murders. Another reason I have it a 3 out of 5 instead of a 4 out of 5 is because it got kind of boring towards the end. My mother also died in the middle of it and for weeks I was heart broken and it took a while to read the rest of it. That might also have something to do with it.
Over all a very good true crime book. A full confession by Crutchley would of probably made it a 4/5 or maybe even a 5/5.
In fact for a while I've often dreamed of being a true crime author and my first book would of been about John Brennan Crutchley. I first came across him in the early 2000s. Reading about the case, then I stumbled upon a short documentary about the case that aired on TV in an episode of some true crime series. Also in the 2000s. As I began to collect more and more books in 2005 I began to hope for a book about Crutchley. His case was just so weird, unique, and fascinating in so many ways. I wanted to know more and I often kept on the case. Often researching for any new info. I saw one news report of police officers going back through the evidence and they showed an evidence bag of a pair of handcuffs.
It was this searching that led me to stumbling upon this book very early on, before it was ever even available to buy. I immediately wanted it. I listened to the author give interviews with the lead investigator. It was published in 2014 and it would take me until near the end of 2018 to finally get a copy and read it in 2019.
The book is typical of true crime in terms of time line.
Most true crime books start off at a specific point in time but then go back in time and then go back to where it was before. It starts off with describing Crutchley's blood lust and then introduces us to the victim that got him caught. The author changes her name. Not exactly sure why because I know her name and have even seen her I.D. card which Crutchley stole as a trophy.
I really enjoyed the detail into the survivors background and what she was into.
Her boyfriend apparently gave her a red walkman and she listened to Madonna adnausum while vacationing at her boyfriend's place. I like details like that. Madonna was awesome in the 80s!
As a true crime fanatic and history buff who really appreciates trivia I really appreciated the author putting interesting historical facts and context in the story. It mentions the AIDS epidemic and even mentions the Unabomber. It also mentions movies such as Rambo and Back to the future coming out. Got to like that.
In a prison interview Crutchley said to the reporter "Over 11 years ago I was - Ma'am, I was unfulfilled. I felt - I had all the toys, I got everything everybody said I should get to be happy and I wasn't."
Reading this book and looking at Crutchley's life story and childhood that prison comment makes a lot of sense and is a constant theme in the book about Crutchley's life. Also a constant comment by Crutchley him self to several people.
Crutchley was incredibly hedonistic.
Crutchley had a genius level IQ and worked for the pentagon and NASA.
The book points out that only 3 months after he was caught the infamous Challenger explosion happened while the investigators were searching his office. Through the years Crutchley apparently killed a few of his coworkers and dumped their bodies on the premises. Incredibly arrogant.
I also came to the conclusion that Crutchley might of had a borderline personality disorder and I would be curious if he also suffered from OCD.
Another thing I really liked and enjoyed about the book is what is rarely ever done with true crime books. Typically when it comes to photos they can be found in basically a "photo section." ie all the photos are put together. Most probably for easy access to the photos in the book. It's also probably easier to edit since you don't have to think about where to put each photo. The photo section is also usually within the middle of the book. Some books have two photo sections placed evenly through the book.
Rarely do you get a true crime book where the photos are appropriately placed where they are relevant in the book. I have very few true crime books that do this and this book does exactly that. I was very pleased to see the author add photos of evidence, Crutchley childhood photos, adult photos of Crutchley enjoying him self, graphic sexual photos, and photos of his victims. I do wish the author shared more photos of victims, and not just their skulls and bones in some photos.
The looses it and becomes a little bit boring towards the end once Crutchley is convicted.
The investigators still tried to find the bodies and we learn a disgusting that. Actually I already knew about it before I read the book and it is reprehensible.
Jodi Arias in 2014 went on trial for murdering her ex boyfriend. All through out the trial the defense including Jodi made unsupported claims about her boyfriend; he was abusive, he was a pedophile, etc. Through out the media, zealots reporters were disgusted by the defense. After she was convicted and not given the death sentence we learned that Jodi in the beginning said she didn't want to "drag Alexanders name under the bus." and said she would confess to the murder. Instead the prosecutor rejected that confession and basically said "We are gonna have a trial and seek the death penalty." So we had a sensationalistic murder trial where Alexander was slandered and his family had to go to court every day and see the photos of his bloated body in the bathtub and hear Jodi accuse him of being a pedophile and raping her, etc.
In the Crutchley case, he early on wanted to confess. He was going to confess to 11 murders although he most probably killed more. He would also lead the investigators to his trophies that he had hidden after his bail and to the bodies. Some guy in charge named Speedy disliked one of the main investigators and rejected the offer saying they were going to seek the death penalty.
So because of this one guy we will never know the full extent of Crutchley's crimes and most probably will never ever find his trophies or the hidden bodies, although he left clues.
If someone in my family was murdered and the killler was going to confess and give us the body and yet someone in power refused simply because they wanted to seek the death penalty and to get one over on an investigator and show his power over them...I would be really angry and disgusted. This speedy guy is a scumbag.
A pretty good true crime book about a very interesting case.
What would of made it better? More photos of more victims, more details about certain victims.
It mentions two victims that were found around his work place. One was stuck between some rocks around the beach and another was in her car. I would of liked further details on those two murders. Another reason I have it a 3 out of 5 instead of a 4 out of 5 is because it got kind of boring towards the end. My mother also died in the middle of it and for weeks I was heart broken and it took a while to read the rest of it. That might also have something to do with it.
Over all a very good true crime book. A full confession by Crutchley would of probably made it a 4/5 or maybe even a 5/5.
October 17, 2021
A true story full of sickening cruelty with suggestions that much, much more happened just out of my visual range. The author did a good job of collecting the unanswered questions, at least. This book did need a thorough final copyedit; the punctuation is bizarre and some of the usage is way off base. It was not enough to stop me reading this terrible story.
February 26, 2020
John “JB” Crutchley is known as the Vampire Rapist because he drained the blood of his victims and would drink it in front of him as he repeatedly raped them. Although he was only convicted of the kidnapping and rape of a nineteen-year-old girl. But the police think that he has killed more than thirty people. Unfortunately, they could not find the evidence to prosecute him.
JT Hunter is a lawyer that has spent the last two years looking into this case and has done an amazing job presenting the case of JB Crutchley. I like how he notes that with any book like this one there is certain guessing when talking about the person. JT has written a captivating story of a man that had a horrible childhood and some serious issues later in his life.
I didn’t really know about this case so I was excited, yes I know I’m morbid, to learn about the Vampire Rapist. I understand the struggles when you just know that he has committed these murders yet cannot find the evidence. But the thing that got me was how his wife defended him. What in the HECK?!?
If you like books about real like serial killers than you need to get this book. It is so well written! I was instantly drawn in and kept on the edge of my seat as I explored more about JB Crutchley. I recommend checking out The Vampire Next Door.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.
JT Hunter is a lawyer that has spent the last two years looking into this case and has done an amazing job presenting the case of JB Crutchley. I like how he notes that with any book like this one there is certain guessing when talking about the person. JT has written a captivating story of a man that had a horrible childhood and some serious issues later in his life.
I didn’t really know about this case so I was excited, yes I know I’m morbid, to learn about the Vampire Rapist. I understand the struggles when you just know that he has committed these murders yet cannot find the evidence. But the thing that got me was how his wife defended him. What in the HECK?!?
If you like books about real like serial killers than you need to get this book. It is so well written! I was instantly drawn in and kept on the edge of my seat as I explored more about JB Crutchley. I recommend checking out The Vampire Next Door.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.
October 14, 2014
I have read a few of the True Crimes series now and loved every second of them. It is fascinating to read about these crimes in such an accurate and informative way. I have been shocked by many of the stories in the other books, but this book and its subject is the most appalling crime I think I have read about yet.
The story revolves around a man that actually drinks the blood of his victims. His crimes would often include rape, torture and murder too. He killed all but one of his victims, who surely would have been murdered too, if she wasn’t able to escape. Obviously, this man has severe psychological and social problems. However, he also appears to have been an incredibly intelligent man that was earning a very good wage. It’s shocking to think that this man’s family and colleagues knew nothing of his depravity.
The book also centres on the investigation and subsequent trial of this man. It’s incredible to think that the only reason that the police caught on to him was the lucky escape of one woman (whose name has been changed at her request). Otherwise he would likely have met more victims.
This is an incredibly well-researched book, full of facts. I imagine the author would have spent a long time collating all of this information. All of their work, however, has made for an excellent read and I highly recommend it.
The story revolves around a man that actually drinks the blood of his victims. His crimes would often include rape, torture and murder too. He killed all but one of his victims, who surely would have been murdered too, if she wasn’t able to escape. Obviously, this man has severe psychological and social problems. However, he also appears to have been an incredibly intelligent man that was earning a very good wage. It’s shocking to think that this man’s family and colleagues knew nothing of his depravity.
The book also centres on the investigation and subsequent trial of this man. It’s incredible to think that the only reason that the police caught on to him was the lucky escape of one woman (whose name has been changed at her request). Otherwise he would likely have met more victims.
This is an incredibly well-researched book, full of facts. I imagine the author would have spent a long time collating all of this information. All of their work, however, has made for an excellent read and I highly recommend it.
June 14, 2023
John Crutchley described himself as a vampire to the woman who escaped his clutches and would lead to his capture. The worst part of the story is the fact that a nurse he was dating introduced him into the "soul cleansing" practice of drinking human blood. She instructed him on the correct usage of needles in order to draw blood.
The computer genius held a job at TRW with top security clearance. While there he was involved in several affairs with married women. One of them described John as being "hung like a donkey."
Other women gave the same description and added that he would often tie them up and choke them during the sexual encounters. I am constantly amazed at the behavior of my fellow human beings.
Robert Ressler is famous for coining the term serial killer and for his interviews with Bundy, Kemper and Manson. He testified at the sentencing hearing for Crutchley and determined that he was a sexual psychopath who could never be cured. His wife claimed that he was just a kinky sort of guy.
The final chapters make a comparison with Bundy, as they both had the habit of removing the heads of their victims. The two men were imprisoned in Florida with the difference being that Ted was executed and Crutchley's final farewell must be read to be believed.
J.T. Hunter is an attorney and is also one hell of a writer. Do not miss this incredible book.
The computer genius held a job at TRW with top security clearance. While there he was involved in several affairs with married women. One of them described John as being "hung like a donkey."
Other women gave the same description and added that he would often tie them up and choke them during the sexual encounters. I am constantly amazed at the behavior of my fellow human beings.
Robert Ressler is famous for coining the term serial killer and for his interviews with Bundy, Kemper and Manson. He testified at the sentencing hearing for Crutchley and determined that he was a sexual psychopath who could never be cured. His wife claimed that he was just a kinky sort of guy.
The final chapters make a comparison with Bundy, as they both had the habit of removing the heads of their victims. The two men were imprisoned in Florida with the difference being that Ted was executed and Crutchley's final farewell must be read to be believed.
J.T. Hunter is an attorney and is also one hell of a writer. Do not miss this incredible book.
February 26, 2020
I chose to read this book after receiving a free e-copy. All opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased.
I don’t read too many true crime books from cover to cover. If I come across them to sell, I’ll often skim through them, but since I had never heard of the Vampire Rapist, this one intrigued me. After reading this book, I’m not sure why I’d never heard of him. Maybe because I was working full time and going to college full time in the 1980s.
The facts of John Crutchley’s crimes are horrific, and I could feel the frustration of the men in law enforcement who were trying to find any piece of evidence that would keep him behind bars. I like how the information was presented except that there was a lot of repetition. There were facts about other events such as the Challenger explosion and the Ted Bundy case which helped with the timeline but were also distracting. If they’d just been mentioned without the extra explanation, it wouldn’t have been distracting.
Overall, I found The Vampire Next Door: The True Story of the Vampire Rapist very interesting and well written. It’s obvious that the author did a lot of investigation for this book. I recommend it to anyone who likes true crime.
I don’t read too many true crime books from cover to cover. If I come across them to sell, I’ll often skim through them, but since I had never heard of the Vampire Rapist, this one intrigued me. After reading this book, I’m not sure why I’d never heard of him. Maybe because I was working full time and going to college full time in the 1980s.
The facts of John Crutchley’s crimes are horrific, and I could feel the frustration of the men in law enforcement who were trying to find any piece of evidence that would keep him behind bars. I like how the information was presented except that there was a lot of repetition. There were facts about other events such as the Challenger explosion and the Ted Bundy case which helped with the timeline but were also distracting. If they’d just been mentioned without the extra explanation, it wouldn’t have been distracting.
Overall, I found The Vampire Next Door: The True Story of the Vampire Rapist very interesting and well written. It’s obvious that the author did a lot of investigation for this book. I recommend it to anyone who likes true crime.
March 12, 2018
INTRIGUING
I enjoyed this book much more so than the previous one written by JT Hunter (I've just found the author, so 2nd book for me). And, while it's just the second, there will be a third, fourth, etc. This read more like a novel than a true crime book. There was a lot more details provided to the reader. I was at University when this happened and I don't recall seeing one article concerning the case. I'm sure it was there, but I was too busy studying. I won't reveal any details because I DON'T want to ruin it for another reader! I particularly enjoyed the trial narrative. This is different from other true crime books because of the organization of the chapters and the ease that connects them, they flow perfectly together. I would certainly recommend this book to others with only one caveat, it's a long, complicated case; therefore, the book is long.
I enjoyed this book much more so than the previous one written by JT Hunter (I've just found the author, so 2nd book for me). And, while it's just the second, there will be a third, fourth, etc. This read more like a novel than a true crime book. There was a lot more details provided to the reader. I was at University when this happened and I don't recall seeing one article concerning the case. I'm sure it was there, but I was too busy studying. I won't reveal any details because I DON'T want to ruin it for another reader! I particularly enjoyed the trial narrative. This is different from other true crime books because of the organization of the chapters and the ease that connects them, they flow perfectly together. I would certainly recommend this book to others with only one caveat, it's a long, complicated case; therefore, the book is long.
October 11, 2014
Twisted and amazing
This is the way to write a True Crime book the story is very well presented. Filled with so many twist of a very sick individuals.
The writer and publisher takes full advantage of. the technology giving you photos of the subject matter within the story instead of waiting till the end of the book, or like many reprints transferred to ebooks and throw photos in the center of book giving away facts before you even read them.
This book and story is at the top of my list as one of the best True Crime reads this year.
It is hard to believe I have never heard more about this case untill now and this book gives it.
This is the way to write a True Crime book the story is very well presented. Filled with so many twist of a very sick individuals.
The writer and publisher takes full advantage of. the technology giving you photos of the subject matter within the story instead of waiting till the end of the book, or like many reprints transferred to ebooks and throw photos in the center of book giving away facts before you even read them.
This book and story is at the top of my list as one of the best True Crime reads this year.
It is hard to believe I have never heard more about this case untill now and this book gives it.
October 11, 2014
I only knew a few details about this case before I picked up this book. If you like true crime, especially serial killer cases, you'll want to read this book. While police were never actually able to formally charge Crutchley with the murders, J.T. Hunter does an incredible job at laying out the facts of this case for the reader. He takes you behind the scenes into the investigation, up close and personal with the investigators, the one surviving victim, and even Crutchley himself. Exceptionally researched and incredibly well-written, it is hard to believe that this is his first true crime book. I can't wait to see what he writes next!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 17, 2014
This book absolutely grabs you from the first page and doesn’t release your brain even once you’re finished. The author, J.T. Hunter arranges the words with such an artist’s touch that that it reads more like a well written novel. I found The Vampire Next Door: The True Story of the Vampire Rapist especially interesting as it is about a case that I didn’t have prior knowledge of before reading this book. You will finish the final page with the feeling that you want to go and take a shower. You will not find yourself bored through a single page. The truly surprising thing is that this is the author’s first true crime book. I am anxious to see which criminal he chooses to study next.
December 28, 2014
Bought this book, well the kindle edition a few days ago. It had raving reviews on amazon.
Probably because of that I was quite disappointed. Not because of the writing because that was good but because of what happened.
Probably because of that I was quite disappointed. Not because of the writing because that was good but because of what happened.
October 13, 2014
This true crime novel is extremely well written and has wonderful flow that keeps you turning the pages.
I have read a little about his human monster before but I did not realize the extent of his horror and the pain he caused and for how long until I read this. The author not just gives you the timeline of
John Brennan Crutchley, but also gives you the events that happened in the world while his investigation and trials were going on.
Great read for any true crime fan out there.
I have read a little about his human monster before but I did not realize the extent of his horror and the pain he caused and for how long until I read this. The author not just gives you the timeline of
John Brennan Crutchley, but also gives you the events that happened in the world while his investigation and trials were going on.
Great read for any true crime fan out there.
March 2, 2015
True crime book about one of the most prolific serial killers in recent history. He had everything. A brilliant IQ, a family, a home and a good job but once he started killing he put it all on the line & eventually lost everything. A good read for true crime fans and a look into the mind of someone who thought he was much smarter than other people. Amazing that he got away with it as long as he did.
September 29, 2016
Very good true crime novel covering all aspects of the case from the victims, forensic evidence, psychopathy of the suspect, and the trial. The quotes obtained from those involved, including the suspect himself, were very enlightening. The book was much longer than I expected, and parts of it were repetitive with respect to describing the suspect and his motives. Were it edited down in length a little more, I would give it five stars.
November 13, 2016
Evil Strange person Who Drinks Blood Of Victim; High IQ; Computer Genius With Government Security Clearance, And Unassuming Stature Appearance Creates An Unique Oddly True Crime Story! Author Seems Overdo In Length Of Book, But The Research; Details Are Quite A Reality Of A True Story Almost Hits Like A Stephen King Novel Portraying A Character Development!
Never Heard Of This NUT, But A True Vampire Story Stranger Than A Stephen King Fictional Character Quite A Read Into Depths Human Evil!
Never Heard Of This NUT, But A True Vampire Story Stranger Than A Stephen King Fictional Character Quite A Read Into Depths Human Evil!
September 24, 2019
A horrifying and true tale of a real life monster. This book does a great job of explaining the saga of JB and his reign of terror. He truly lived up to his moniker.
As with all true crime books, the narrative can only be as good as the facts it is based on, and it tends to drag with the legal proceedings. Nonetheless, the author makes the best of it.
A must-read for true crime fans, and definitely not for the faint of heart.
As with all true crime books, the narrative can only be as good as the facts it is based on, and it tends to drag with the legal proceedings. Nonetheless, the author makes the best of it.
A must-read for true crime fans, and definitely not for the faint of heart.
July 30, 2015
Interesting
This is an interesting book covering the case of John Crutchley, the vampire rapist. I have read about it before but this book is more in depth. The first part was very disturbing and I almost stopped reading there but after Christina escaped it was much better. Some interesting points were raised. Nice coverage!
This is an interesting book covering the case of John Crutchley, the vampire rapist. I have read about it before but this book is more in depth. The first part was very disturbing and I almost stopped reading there but after Christina escaped it was much better. Some interesting points were raised. Nice coverage!
October 20, 2014
Serial killer
An in depth look into the mind of a serial killer.They are so intelligent it is had to catch them and this is one who was never even charged with a murder.He was a true vampire.
An in depth look into the mind of a serial killer.They are so intelligent it is had to catch them and this is one who was never even charged with a murder.He was a true vampire.
October 29, 2014
WOW! I love this book! I was completely compelled by this absolutely fascinating story.
I wasn't sure I would lime this book but from the beginning I was so caught up in this intriguing story. It's a MUST READ for people who enjoy true crime stories
I wasn't sure I would lime this book but from the beginning I was so caught up in this intriguing story. It's a MUST READ for people who enjoy true crime stories
February 19, 2015
Definitely a page turner
This book was very well written and the subject, while disturbing, was fascinating. The only criticism I have is that the author tended to repeat the same information which unnecessarily lengthened the book.
This book was very well written and the subject, while disturbing, was fascinating. The only criticism I have is that the author tended to repeat the same information which unnecessarily lengthened the book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews