American Monster

The Search for the Sunset Killer

By: JT Hunter

Narrated by: Kathryn Wylde

Summertime in Florida. Tourists flock to the subtropical paradise for its beautiful beaches, abundant sunshine, and the magical allure of Disney World. For one Midwestern mother and her two teenaged daughters, a trip to the Sunshine State seemed like a dream vacation. But the promise of a sunset cruise by a friendly stranger turned that dream into a deadly nightmare. This is the true story of that tragic encounter and the hunt for the Sunset Killer, a modern American Monster.

©2022 JT Hunter (P)2024 JT Hunter

The Making of a Monster

American Monster by J.T. Hunter is a disturbing yet compelling true-crime story about a mother and her daughters whose Florida vacation turns into a tragedy when they cross paths with the serial killer known as the Sunset Killer. The book pulled me in quickly because of Hunter’s writing style, he blends solid research with storytelling that feels like watching a dark crime documentary. As I continued reading, it became clear that the killer did not turn into a criminal overnight. The author suggests three major influences on his development: a traumatic and unstable childhood, deep psychological issues that were never treated, and a growing obsession with control and violence. These factors slowly shaped him into someone capable of horrific acts.

Although some parts were difficult and emotional to read, the story reminded me how fragile everyday life can be and how quickly normal moments can become dangerous. The detailed investigation, the small clues, and the way law enforcement finally identified the killer made the book even more gripping. Overall, it is a fast but intense read, especially for people interested in real-life mysteries and true crime psychology.
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Monstrous story narrated with humanity

True crime stories can read as violence porn, but the author of American Monster has kept the focus of this narrative on the elements behind the crime. With a focus on the victims and the investigators, the short descriptions of the methods of the featured serial killer are well balanced by small human details. The narrator does an exceptional job at breathing life into each piece of dialog or letter included in the text. The clear narration lends warmth and care to a carefully crafted tale of horror and resolution.

Well researched and well written....

Very good overall. I will read more books from this author. Better than most. Chandler was a very bad guy who pretty much flew under the serial killer radar.

Lived in Florida when it happened

Never got the whole story but was in Florida living when this happened.
Quite a monster.

Perfect

Great book.. perfect length, great narration.. doesn't have the usual nonsense that drags the book on for hours..Will definitely be rereading.