The Mind of a Murderer

The Mind of a Murderer

A glimpse into the darkest corners of the human psyche, from a leading forensic psychiatrist

by Richard Taylor

352 pages· 2021· ISBN 9781472268174
About
'An intricate and brilliantly written psychiatric perspective on the most perplexing of crimes' Kerry Daynes, author of The Dark Side of the Mind 'Beautifully written and very dark' Nimko Ali OBE 'Whodunnit' doesn't matter so much, not to a forensic psychiatrist. We're more interested in the 'why'. In his twenty-six years in the field, Richard Taylor has worked on well over a hundred murder cases, with victims and perpetrators from all walks of life. In this fascinating memoir, Taylor draws on some of the most tragic, horrific and illuminating of these cases - as well as dark secrets from his own family's past - to explore some of the questions he grapples with every day: Why do people kill? Does committing a monstrous act make someone a monster? Could any of us, in the wrong circumstances, become a killer? As Taylor helps us understand what lies inside the minds of those charged with murder - both prisoners he has assessed and patients he has treated - he presents us with the most important challenge of all: how can we even begin to comprehend the darkest of human deeds, and why it is so vital that we try? The Mind of a Murderer is a fascinating exploration into the psyche of killers, as well as a unique insight into the life and mind of the doctor who treats them.For fans of Unnatural Causes, The Examined Life and All That Remains. MORE PRAISE FOR THE MIND OF A MURDERER: 'A fascinating insight into what drives criminality - and a punchy polemic against mental-health service cuts' Jake Kerridge, Sunday Telegraph 'A dark, fascinating and often surprising glimpse into the minds of those who kill, from a forensic psychiatrist who's seen it all' Rob Williams, writer of BBC's The Victim

Discuss The Mind of a Murderer with other readers

Join or start a book club for The Mind of a Murderer on Readfeed. Live chat, shared reading progress, and AI discussion questions — free to get started.

Frequently asked questions

How do I join a book club for The Mind of a Murderer?

Sign up free on Readfeed, then browse public clubs or start your own club with The Mind of a Murderer as the current read. Invite friends with a share link and discuss together with live chat and AI discussion questions.

Can I discuss The Mind of a Murderer with other readers online?

Yes. Readfeed book clubs let you chat live, share progress, and join discussions about The Mind of a Murderer with readers worldwide — whether your club is virtual, in-person, or hybrid.

Is Readfeed free?

Yes. Creating an account and joining book clubs is free. Sign up to find readers who love the same books and start discussing today.