Is It Weird?

I’ve always been slightly interested in true crime. I’ve read a few books. I’ve watched documentaries here and there.

But I’ve noticed my interest in true crime has increased. I’m reading more books and have even joined a few online groups discussing true crime.

I’ve been looking at the forums on Web Sleuth, a website of amateur sleuths trying to solve cases, and even thought to myself, What if I could help solve cases?

And it’s not just true crime. I’ve taken to reading books about grief. Books about death and dying.

Are these sudden increases because my mom passed away?

Is this somehow a method of coping?

Is it in some way helping me to heal?

I don’t know. Maybe it’s all of the above.

Is it weird, or has anyone experienced an increased interest after someone passed away?

91 Days of Halloween Movie-thon: Day 90

The Demon Murder Case (1983)

This film stars Kevin Bacon and is based on a true story. It is sometimes known as The Demon Murder Case or “The Devil Made Me Do It” case. The 2021 Conjuring film is also based on this true story.

It is the first known court case in the United States which sought to prove innocence on the basis of demonic possession.

Arne Johnson claims he was possessed when he killed his landlord. He was found guilty and sentenced to 10 – 20 years. He served only 5 years.

It’s an interesting case. Do I believe he was possessed? I’ve seen so much in my life that I can’t say he was lying.

I believe possession is real. I believe in ghosts. I believe in angels. And I believe there are bad spirits. Do I think every person who commits murder or does bad things is possessed? No. Unfortunately, there are just some horrible humans in the world.

I do believe possession happens, and it can definitely change a person. It can make them do things they wouldn’t do.

It wasn’t a bad movie, and it is worth a watch. I found it on YouTube, and the quality isn’t great. But that is the only way I was able to watch it. It doesn’t look like it was ever released on DVD.

The Demon Murder Case on Youtube.

Book Review: I’ll Be Gone in the Dark by Michelle McNamara

I became aware of this book through the author’s husband. And it piqued my interest. I’ve read a few true crime books, and I’ve watched some documentaries. I am not as enthralled with true crime as others might be, but this book caught my attention. Sadly, I had not heard of the author before her passing.

I was hooked within a few pages. Michelle McNamara has a strong voice and is a fantastic writer. Her writing is gripping and makes you not want to put down the book. This is different than other true crime books I’ve read. It is more than just stating facts. It’s personal. It’s human. The only other book I can say is similar is Who Killed My Daughter? by Lois Duncan.

Part true crime and part biography, Michelle McNamara was obsessed and passionate. She wanted justice for the victims of the Golden State Killer.

It is a very detailed book and very well-written.

I highly recommend this book and its documentary series on HBO Max. Both are amazing.