In the 1980s and 1990s, the Last Call killer targeted gay men in New York. I've read quite a few true crime books over the years, and it's not hard to feel sorry for the victims and the loved ones they left behind. My heart weighed extra heavy after reading this book knowing due in part to the victims' sexuality not much attention was paid to the crimes back then or even now. What is also sad is knowing there are most likely other undiscovered victims of this serial killer.
If you do not count the Acknowledgments and Notes, this book is a little bit over 200 pages which is on the shorter side for a true crime book especially one featuring multiple crimes. I think it is worth noting that even though you get some of the details of the crimes, the victims, and the killer, this book is also just as much about the gay community in New York during the 80s and 90s. The author does a good job painting the picture of what life was like for a gay man during that era. You have the AIDs epidemic, the fear of being outed if you were closeted, rampant homophobia, and hate crimes that weren't taken very seriously by the general public or law enforcement. It's a heartbreaking and infuriating read but one that is certainly important in order not to forget the history.
I think this book is a worthwhile read but it is not the strongest true crime book I have ever read. I felt more like I was getting a snapshot of the victim's life and then the author would move on to the next one. There were many names brought up in the book, not just victims, but others that were part of the NYC social scene and it was difficult at times to keep track of everyone. I also was surprised the author barely devoted any time to the court case. That's just minor criticism though as overall I found it to be a fascinating read.
I received an advance copy from Celadon Books. All thoughts expressed are my honest opinion.
If you do not count the Acknowledgments and Notes, this book is a little bit over 200 pages which is on the shorter side for a true crime book especially one featuring multiple crimes. I think it is worth noting that even though you get some of the details of the crimes, the victims, and the killer, this book is also just as much about the gay community in New York during the 80s and 90s. The author does a good job painting the picture of what life was like for a gay man during that era. You have the AIDs epidemic, the fear of being outed if you were closeted, rampant homophobia, and hate crimes that weren't taken very seriously by the general public or law enforcement. It's a heartbreaking and infuriating read but one that is certainly important in order not to forget the history.
I think this book is a worthwhile read but it is not the strongest true crime book I have ever read. I felt more like I was getting a snapshot of the victim's life and then the author would move on to the next one. There were many names brought up in the book, not just victims, but others that were part of the NYC social scene and it was difficult at times to keep track of everyone. I also was surprised the author barely devoted any time to the court case. That's just minor criticism though as overall I found it to be a fascinating read.
I received an advance copy from Celadon Books. All thoughts expressed are my honest opinion.