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Forensic Files Now: Inside 40 Unforgettable True Crime Cases
Perhaps no other television show captures our innate fascination with crime and criminals better than the original Forensic Files. Including murders, insurance fraud, hit-and-runs, and kidnappings, all cases featured on the show are solved in large part with the help of forensic science like DNA evidence.
In Forensic Files Inside 40 Unforgettable Cases, author Rebecca Reisner shares her own gripping retellings — adapted from her popular blog, ForensicFilesNow.com — of 40 favorite cases profiled on the show along with fascinating updates and personal interviews with those directly involved. Featuring classic cases like the Tennessee brothers who terrorized locals for years until the feds rode into town, the Texas lovebirds who robbed a grave in an insurance fraud plot that made international headlines, the Ivy League-educated physician who attempted a fresh start by burying his wife in the basement, and some cases so captivating that they have sparked spinoff miniseries or documentaries of their own, this book will enthrall readers with its vivid recaps and detailed updates.
Also featuring an in-depth interview with Forensic Files creator Paul Dowling and a profile on the show’s beloved narrator, Peter Thomas, Forensic Files Now is a must-read for diehard Forensic Files fans and a welcome find for true crime readers looking for more riveting and well-told stories.
In Forensic Files Inside 40 Unforgettable Cases, author Rebecca Reisner shares her own gripping retellings — adapted from her popular blog, ForensicFilesNow.com — of 40 favorite cases profiled on the show along with fascinating updates and personal interviews with those directly involved. Featuring classic cases like the Tennessee brothers who terrorized locals for years until the feds rode into town, the Texas lovebirds who robbed a grave in an insurance fraud plot that made international headlines, the Ivy League-educated physician who attempted a fresh start by burying his wife in the basement, and some cases so captivating that they have sparked spinoff miniseries or documentaries of their own, this book will enthrall readers with its vivid recaps and detailed updates.
Also featuring an in-depth interview with Forensic Files creator Paul Dowling and a profile on the show’s beloved narrator, Peter Thomas, Forensic Files Now is a must-read for diehard Forensic Files fans and a welcome find for true crime readers looking for more riveting and well-told stories.
299 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 15, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 35 reviews
October 31, 2024
I received a free copy of, Forensic Files Now, by Rebecca Reisner, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. I love the tv show, Forensic Files, so this was a great book for me. It has cases I remember, and some I do not. This book has 40 cases from the hit show, a must read for fans of the show.
October 5, 2022
Calling all Forensic Files fans! If you love the iconic tv show, this is a must read! In this book, author and ForensicFilesNow.com blogger, Rebecca Reisner, shares forty cases profiled on the show along with latest updates or information on the cases discussed in this book. I really loved the quick recap and the detailed updates on each cases. It was a well-written and well-structured book and I enjoyed this book thoroughly!
Pub. Date: 15th Oct, 2022
***Thank you Rowman & Littlefield, Prometheus and NetGalley for this gifted reading copy. All opinions expressed are my own.***
Pub. Date: 15th Oct, 2022
***Thank you Rowman & Littlefield, Prometheus and NetGalley for this gifted reading copy. All opinions expressed are my own.***
September 30, 2022
I was REALLY looking forward to reading this book. Learning where the cases were, where the criminals were, what happened AFTER the Forensic Files aired.
However, this is a sad state of a book.
First the good, I really loved the authors snarkiness of some of the summation of the cases. For instance when she would say, I guess he didn't watch Forensic Files.
I liked that she TRIED to see where the victim's relatives were at, the criminals, the attorneys, etc.
About a third of the way into reading this book, I wondered WHY?! Why was this book written. Yes it recapped some cases, but I really didn't get the feel of updates. I got the author doing internet searches, social media searches, and Department of Corrections searches to update the reader.
If I cared enough about the case, I could have done a google search and found the same information.
Every chapter was repetitive...it would start with a catchy sentence, then say what the author did to look for new information, then a recap of the episode.
Only a few of the chapters were worth the hassle of getting any updates. Most of them were internet searches of Department of Corrections information.
This book had the promise of a GREAT book, it was just meh.
Thank you to Netgalley and to the publisher for this ARC in exchange for this honest review.
However, this is a sad state of a book.
First the good, I really loved the authors snarkiness of some of the summation of the cases. For instance when she would say, I guess he didn't watch Forensic Files.
I liked that she TRIED to see where the victim's relatives were at, the criminals, the attorneys, etc.
About a third of the way into reading this book, I wondered WHY?! Why was this book written. Yes it recapped some cases, but I really didn't get the feel of updates. I got the author doing internet searches, social media searches, and Department of Corrections searches to update the reader.
If I cared enough about the case, I could have done a google search and found the same information.
Every chapter was repetitive...it would start with a catchy sentence, then say what the author did to look for new information, then a recap of the episode.
Only a few of the chapters were worth the hassle of getting any updates. Most of them were internet searches of Department of Corrections information.
This book had the promise of a GREAT book, it was just meh.
Thank you to Netgalley and to the publisher for this ARC in exchange for this honest review.
September 4, 2022
This book was not what I expected. I thought it would go deeper into episodes of the show. Instead, it gives a very brief overview of the show and then things found on the internet about the parties involved. This took away from the book in my opinion. Thanks to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for the ARC of the book in return for my honest thoughts. Receiving the book in this manner had no bearing on this review.
November 7, 2022
⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
True crime is something I really got into reading in 2022 though I would watch it all the time. What I liked about this book was getting more information from the episodes I remembering watching. I was also picturing the episodes in my head as I read. I really want to read more from Rebecca Reisner and I really need more true crime in my life.
Thank you Netgalley, Edelweiss and Rowman & Littlefield for letting read and give my honest review.
True crime is something I really got into reading in 2022 though I would watch it all the time. What I liked about this book was getting more information from the episodes I remembering watching. I was also picturing the episodes in my head as I read. I really want to read more from Rebecca Reisner and I really need more true crime in my life.
Thank you Netgalley, Edelweiss and Rowman & Littlefield for letting read and give my honest review.
January 15, 2023
If you’re like me, you’ve seen every single episode of Forensic Files over a dozen times. You fall asleep to the gentle cadence of Peter Thomas. You even start your day with a quick episode as you get ready. Okay.. maybe you’re not quite as devoted. 🤷🏻♀️
This book didn’t really live up to my expectations. Most of the chapters are just retellings of the episodes (which obviously I’m familiar with). There’s very little in the way of “updates.” Some chapters are more interesting than others of course. But I think the author should have cut down on the number of cases covered and really focused on bringing forward those with compelling facts post-conviction or insights not shared during the episode.
It seems evident that the author was reaching for straws and trying to fulfill a certain word count. Many chapters only offered insight into the weight gain or loss of the convicted and comments on their jailhouse appearance.
This book didn’t really live up to my expectations. Most of the chapters are just retellings of the episodes (which obviously I’m familiar with). There’s very little in the way of “updates.” Some chapters are more interesting than others of course. But I think the author should have cut down on the number of cases covered and really focused on bringing forward those with compelling facts post-conviction or insights not shared during the episode.
It seems evident that the author was reaching for straws and trying to fulfill a certain word count. Many chapters only offered insight into the weight gain or loss of the convicted and comments on their jailhouse appearance.
August 25, 2022
This book is definitely for Forensic Files fans, and it feels a bit like you're just sitting down to chat about your favorite episodes. Reads a bit like a podcast, but I'm totally fine with that as Reisner mentioned some of my all time favorite episodes- Bad Blood in particular is the one I show my non-Forensic Files friends because it's bananas and isn't about a murder. There were a few mentioned in the book that I don't remember, so you can be sure I'll track them down and watch them. I'm glad she followed up on some of the cases, even if the outcomes were sometimes frustrating or sad.
September 8, 2022
As a huge fan of the Forensic Files series, I was very excited to find this book. I had such high expectations, yet for me, it did not.
I remembered most of the cases covered, and was looking forward to reading more in-depth information on the cases and updates. The majority of each chapter focuses on a recap of the actual episode. There was very little included in what has happened since the incident.
The book is written very much like the posts Reisner makes on their blog, of the same name. I found some of the comments to be too familiar. I did not like the addition of personal comments, for instance, the comment about needing to go to a hardware store to purchase a fire extinguisher. I was also frustrated with the beginning of each chapter telling how they were going to recap the episode and provide information from internet research. It seemed just too repetitive to include it in each chapter. This kind of statement is usually included in a blog post, but shouldn't be repeated in a book, especially when being somewhat flippant (for example...let's get it to it...when moving to the recap of an episode).
For those who are not familiar with Forensic Files, the recaps and updates can be interesting to read, however for those who are true fans, it will be somewhat of a letdown.
I remembered most of the cases covered, and was looking forward to reading more in-depth information on the cases and updates. The majority of each chapter focuses on a recap of the actual episode. There was very little included in what has happened since the incident.
The book is written very much like the posts Reisner makes on their blog, of the same name. I found some of the comments to be too familiar. I did not like the addition of personal comments, for instance, the comment about needing to go to a hardware store to purchase a fire extinguisher. I was also frustrated with the beginning of each chapter telling how they were going to recap the episode and provide information from internet research. It seemed just too repetitive to include it in each chapter. This kind of statement is usually included in a blog post, but shouldn't be repeated in a book, especially when being somewhat flippant (for example...let's get it to it...when moving to the recap of an episode).
For those who are not familiar with Forensic Files, the recaps and updates can be interesting to read, however for those who are true fans, it will be somewhat of a letdown.
October 4, 2022
I'm a true crime junkie. I haven't had cable in over a decade. Have I seen this commercial? (Nope.) Heard about the terrible call in the game? (What game?) Have I watched this show? (Never even heard of it.) But I've seen every episode of Forensic Files at least three times and many of them I've searched the case and watched other documentaries about the same victim and/or killer. When I saw this book I was instantly intrigued.
Though I enjoyed the recaps (and remembered every episode), this book wasn't quite what I was hoping for. For one thing, each case was organized the same way. Teaser, statement that the episode will be recapped along with internet research (and possibly an interview), then the recap, then the internet research/interview. I think I would have found it more compelling if each story hadn't been organized in an identical fashion. In some cases there was very little update, one case it was just a mention that the person was paroled in some year and turned some age a few years later. Those cases where updated information wasn't available probably should have been left out (though it's still fun to read a recap of an episode I found interesting).
If you're a fan of the show, you'll enjoy the book. It's well-written and the stories are definitely very interesting. I do hope the author writes more books like this because I would love to learn about other cases but if she does I hope she limits to fewer cases and provides more information on each.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
Though I enjoyed the recaps (and remembered every episode), this book wasn't quite what I was hoping for. For one thing, each case was organized the same way. Teaser, statement that the episode will be recapped along with internet research (and possibly an interview), then the recap, then the internet research/interview. I think I would have found it more compelling if each story hadn't been organized in an identical fashion. In some cases there was very little update, one case it was just a mention that the person was paroled in some year and turned some age a few years later. Those cases where updated information wasn't available probably should have been left out (though it's still fun to read a recap of an episode I found interesting).
If you're a fan of the show, you'll enjoy the book. It's well-written and the stories are definitely very interesting. I do hope the author writes more books like this because I would love to learn about other cases but if she does I hope she limits to fewer cases and provides more information on each.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
July 7, 2025
Forensic Files Now: Inside 40 Unforgettable True Crime Cases by Rebecca Reisner is a compelling companion for fans of the iconic true crime series. Drawing from her popular blog, Reisner retells forty memorable cases featured on the show, but what sets this book apart are the fascinating updates and interviews with people directly involved in the investigations. Readers are treated to concise, vivid recaps of notorious cases—ranging from chilling murders to elaborate frauds—while also learning what happened to the perpetrators and victims after the cameras stopped rolling.
The book’s structure makes it easy to dip in and out, with each case presented as a bite-sized narrative packed with detail and clarity. Reisner’s research is thorough, filling in gaps left by the show and answering lingering questions that have long intrigued true crime enthusiasts. The inclusion of Q&As with legal experts and investigators adds depth and originality. While some may prefer longer, more in-depth explorations, this format is perfect for readers who enjoy quick, engaging reads.
Overall, Forensic Files Now is a must-read for true crime fans and Forensic Files aficionados alike, offering both nostalgia and new insights into some of the most unforgettable cases ever televised.
The book’s structure makes it easy to dip in and out, with each case presented as a bite-sized narrative packed with detail and clarity. Reisner’s research is thorough, filling in gaps left by the show and answering lingering questions that have long intrigued true crime enthusiasts. The inclusion of Q&As with legal experts and investigators adds depth and originality. While some may prefer longer, more in-depth explorations, this format is perfect for readers who enjoy quick, engaging reads.
Overall, Forensic Files Now is a must-read for true crime fans and Forensic Files aficionados alike, offering both nostalgia and new insights into some of the most unforgettable cases ever televised.
October 4, 2022
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
3.5 rounded up to 4 stars.
Spoilers ahead. I will not reveal anything big - most of the review vaguely alludes to plot, structure, and characters.
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As a true crime fan and a longtime Forensic Files watcher, this is a great read. The cases are interesting picks - I'm so glad glad they're not just the infamous ones that we always hear about when it comes to Forensic Files, though those are included too. There is a nice balance in each section between covering all of the facts and digging into them, making sure the book isn't bogged down by any one case. They structure and layout of the book was excellent, and I love that the cases are linked directly to specific episodes, so you can go back and rewatch if you felt so inclined. The biography of the narrator is also a nice touch - his voice is so iconic, I heard it in my head while reading most of the book. Overall, a very solid read for true crime fans.
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Again, thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
3.5 rounded up to 4 stars.
Spoilers ahead. I will not reveal anything big - most of the review vaguely alludes to plot, structure, and characters.
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As a true crime fan and a longtime Forensic Files watcher, this is a great read. The cases are interesting picks - I'm so glad glad they're not just the infamous ones that we always hear about when it comes to Forensic Files, though those are included too. There is a nice balance in each section between covering all of the facts and digging into them, making sure the book isn't bogged down by any one case. They structure and layout of the book was excellent, and I love that the cases are linked directly to specific episodes, so you can go back and rewatch if you felt so inclined. The biography of the narrator is also a nice touch - his voice is so iconic, I heard it in my head while reading most of the book. Overall, a very solid read for true crime fans.
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Again, thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 2, 2022
An interesting set of updates on notable cases for fans of Forensic Files. The pace is snappy and the tone is conversational as each case is recapped and examined. Biographical information is provided about notable players and interviews with people involved (family, law enforcement, etc.) are included whenever possible. Each article includes an update on the case, explaining what happened to the perpetrators and those left behind, satisfying reader curiosity. This is a quick, engaging read and would be a good pick for anyone interested in true crime.
Many thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review!
Many thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review!
Read
September 6, 2022I think it’s no secret that Forensic Files was and is the ultimate true crime binge worthy show. There are entire channels dedicated to it on several networks.
Rebecca Reisner did a phenomenal job and went above and beyond when it came to research for Forensic Files Now. I loved that this book answered so many questions left, filled in many blanks and referenced everything. As a lover of true crime, I didn’t have to lie awake wondering what I had just seen Collier Landry in, since A Murder in Mansfield was referenced.
Each recap was well done, I really, really enjoyed this book.
Rebecca Reisner did a phenomenal job and went above and beyond when it came to research for Forensic Files Now. I loved that this book answered so many questions left, filled in many blanks and referenced everything. As a lover of true crime, I didn’t have to lie awake wondering what I had just seen Collier Landry in, since A Murder in Mansfield was referenced.
Each recap was well done, I really, really enjoyed this book.
Read
September 22, 2022I cannot wait to recommend this book to all my patrons who love true crime. This book covers and sometimes updates classic cases from Forensic Files. The television show was one of the first and best true crime shows that showcased the science behind police investigations. While I prefer a long-form, deep dive into crime stories this was an entertaining read. I know many people who will love the short, bite-sized recaps of some of their favourite episodes. Great book. Good for short bites of reading.
January 15, 2023
I loved this book! Yes, I also love the show Forensic Files, so having a book with updates is fantastic. The updates were well researched and done very well. The author recapped each episode quite well and added in the new information quite well. I loved the new information. I remembered most of the episodes, so I could picture what she was talking about, however, I am now going to go back and watch each episode with the new information in my head and know the new stuff. If you like Forensic Files, this is a must read! It is fabulous! One of my favorites!
October 10, 2022
Forensic File fans this book is for you, even if you've never watched the show you can read up on all the cases. I have watched the show for years and it has always been one of my favorite shows. The book is full of information and updates on the cases and I was surprised to see that I actually remembered all of them. To this day I still watch the reruns and I love the voice of Peter Thomas telling it. It's not an in depth version of the stories but a short updated summary.
November 2, 2022
As a long time fan of Forensic Files, I had to read this, and so glad I did. This book recounts 40 episodes and crimes that have aired on Forensic Files, with some new information on alot of them. I like the insight and found this fascinating. I would recommend this to anyone interested in true crime, psychology or just a good read.
R
Thanks to Netgalley for sending this e-book ARC for fair review
R
Thanks to Netgalley for sending this e-book ARC for fair review
January 17, 2023
This is an awesome book!!!!!!!! If I could it would get a 100 star rating!!!! I should start by saying That Forensic Files is my favorite show. I'm totally blind and can't see the little things HLN roles across the screen for updates. I got the audio copy of this book it was really nice knowing what happened to these cases. It is a must read please share with you're friends and family!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
September 19, 2022
Forensic Files Now is an interesting twist on true crime. Several crimes are highlighted in the book as seen on the show Forensic Files. The interesting part of this book are the current updates on the victims/criminal. It was fascinating to read what happened after the convictions and are they still in prison, released, etc. This is a great true crime book. Thank you to NetGalley.
October 1, 2022
Thank you NetGalley, Rebecca Reisner and Rowman & Littlefield for the ARC of Forensic Files Now. This is my personal review.
I love watching the show Forensic Files and was excited to read this book.
I enjoyed the book a lot by was hoping to get more than I did from the stories. This for me was more of a Where Are They Now book that unknown details from the cases shown on tv.
I love watching the show Forensic Files and was excited to read this book.
I enjoyed the book a lot by was hoping to get more than I did from the stories. This for me was more of a Where Are They Now book that unknown details from the cases shown on tv.
December 6, 2022
If you ever read the author's blog of the same name, you'll quickly realize that most of the book's chapters are repurposed blog entries. Each entry is about 75% summary of the case and 25% update, which is a little annoying. Say you watch an interesting FF episode then want to read up on the case -- you'll be stuck reading a rehash of what you just viewed.
Most of the updates are informative and well-researched but a few times the author comes up empty. Which begs the question, why include an update that's not an update?
My worst complaint is the author's snarky and mean-spirited comments about prisoners' weight, based on data provided by corrections websites. Noting that someone has gained weight behind bars adds nothing to the update, and is not necessarily a sign of some moral failing or lack of discipline: what if the person has thyroid issues or is simply served an unhealthy diet by their jailers?
In all, an entertaining read despite its flaws and should please hardcore fans of the TV show.
Most of the updates are informative and well-researched but a few times the author comes up empty. Which begs the question, why include an update that's not an update?
My worst complaint is the author's snarky and mean-spirited comments about prisoners' weight, based on data provided by corrections websites. Noting that someone has gained weight behind bars adds nothing to the update, and is not necessarily a sign of some moral failing or lack of discipline: what if the person has thyroid issues or is simply served an unhealthy diet by their jailers?
In all, an entertaining read despite its flaws and should please hardcore fans of the TV show.
September 29, 2022
A great companion book to the original tv series. The author has done a great job of updating what happened to the individuals and to tell “the rest of the story”. A great true crime novel.
Thank you to #NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you to #NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
October 18, 2022
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Having never watched the program Forensic Files, this was new to me. The short recaps of shows make these true crimes understandable. Not sure if I will try to view the show, but you never know.
Having never watched the program Forensic Files, this was new to me. The short recaps of shows make these true crimes understandable. Not sure if I will try to view the show, but you never know.
December 29, 2022
A highly readable and entertaining true crime book. I enjoyed the detailed and occasionally humorous vignettes describing who done it, to whom, and how, and what happened next. A must for true crime fans.
June 5, 2024
Only reason not 5 stars is I WANT MORE! But I’ll be content with podcast I suppose… also it would be awesome if seasons/episodes were listed at start of chapter, I loved following along watching & reading
March 20, 2025
Forensic Files Now is a popular true crime podcast/blog created by Rebecca Reisner. In this book, Reisner shares 40 of her more memorable cases with follow on information on the history of the people involved and the lasting impact of the crimes. This is a true crime lover's ultimate book.
November 5, 2022
Excellent as an audiobook
February 20, 2023
loved this book hope she writes more they are stories that have been on forensic files and an update of where they are today and their families and the victims families a really great book......
Displaying 1 - 29 of 35 reviews