Obsession

More about the book

In this eagerly awaited new book by the international best-selling authors of Mindhunter and Journey into Darkness, master FBI profiler John Douglas delves into the minds of both hunters and the hunted. As the former head of the FBI's Investigative Support Unit, Douglas pioneered modern behavioral profiling of serial criminals. He previously tracked notorious killers, revealing the complexities of their motivations and the impact on victims. In this work, Douglas focuses on predatory crimes against women, examining the obsessions that lead to rape, stalking, and murder through notable cases such as Ronnie Shelton, Joseph Thompson, and the tragic story of Rebecca Schaeffer. He explores the minds of infamous killers like Ed Gein, Gary Heidnick, and Ted Bundy, who inspired the composite character of "Buffalo Bill" in The Silence of the Lambs. Douglas also reflects on his own obsession with hunting predators and highlights the dedication of those working to support victims, including a Virginia police department's victim's program and a lawyer's innovative school in Harlem. The poignant story of Gene and Peggy Schmidt, whose daughter was murdered, illustrates the empowerment of the victim's rights movement. In a compelling call to action, Douglas emphasizes the importance of understanding and insight to combat violent crime, urging readers to protect themselves and their loved ones. No one is better qualified to penetrate ob