Sep 25, 2026 · 10 min listen · Last updated September 25, 2026
From storyflo. This is your daily audio brief. Here are today's top 6 true crime stories. Let's get into it. First, from CrimeReads (Literary Hub). The Best True Crime Of the Month: September 2026. This month, there are some compelling new true crime books that really dive into the complexities of human nature and society.
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Daily True Crime Brief · September 25th
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The Best True Crime Of the Month: September 2026
This month, there are some compelling new true crime books that really dive into the complexities of human nature and society. Anand Giridharadas’s "Man in the Mirror" takes a hard look at how vulnerable communities are often dismissed as threats, making it a powerful read that resonates deeply with current social issues. It’s not just a story; it’s a call to reflect on our collective responsibilities.
Then there's Sara McDougall’s "Justice for Jehanne," which shines a light on a medieval survivor's tale, adding important layers to women’s history and gender justice. It’s a strong addition that reminds us how far we've come and how far we still need to go.
Mikita Brottman’s "A Double Life" explores the chilling details of a premeditated murder, offering startling insights that will keep true crime fans on the edge of their seats. Brottman dives into the psychological aspects, making it a gripping read for those who love to understand the darker corners of the human mind.
Matthew J. Prigge’s "Dog’s Day" tells the true story behind a bank robbery that intersects with gay liberation and toxic love, providing a nuanced perspective that a Hollywood movie just can’t capture. It’s a raw look at queerness, trauma, and the complexities of love that’s both heartbreaking and enlightening.
Lastly, Emmanuel Carrère’s "The Adversary" presents a shocking exposé on deception and moral blindness. This book challenges readers to confront the darker sides of humanity and our tendency to ignore wrongdoing, making it a thought-provoking read that sticks with you long after you turn the last page.
Which International Film Should You Stream This Weekend?
If you’re looking for something intriguing to watch this weekend, there are some fantastic international films to consider. First up is "The Nile Hilton Incident," a gripping mystery set in Cairo. It follows a corrupt cop named Noredin as he investigates the murder of a famous singer. The story dives deep into the murky waters of police corruption and political intrigue, and the performances really shine, especially from Fares Fares and Mari Malek. Originally intended to be filmed in Egypt, it was shot in Casablanca, but it still captures the essence of Cairo’s complex landscape. You can find this one on Tubi and Apple TV.
Next, if you’re in the mood for something a bit more colorful and melodramatic, check out "Karz," a classic Bollywood musical from 1980. It’s a wild ride involving reincarnation and revenge, featuring Rishi Kapoor in a silver jumpsuit that’s unforgettable. The plot revolves around a murder, a rebirth, and plenty of catchy songs that make it a quintessential 80s Bollywood experience. You can stream this gem on Prime Video.
Lastly, for something more thought-provoking, "The Conformist" is a stunning Italian film that tackles themes of morality and Fascism. Directed by Bernardo Bertolucci, it follows Marcello, a man tasked with assassinating his former professor. The film is beautifully shot, with mesmerizing cinematography that enhances its unsettling narrative. It raises questions about normalcy and morality, leaving you with plenty to ponder long after the credits roll. You can catch this one on Apple TV and Prime Video.
So, whether you’re in the mood for a gritty mystery, a vibrant musical, or a deep, reflective drama, there’s something here for everyone. Enjoy your movie night!
A recent crime-fiction conference in San Francisco inspired an author to step into the shoes of her character, Capri Sanzio, a true-crime walking tour guide. This experience turned out to be both a fun connection with attendees and a valuable research opportunity. The author quickly realized that being a tour guide is no easy task and requires a unique set of skills that also align perfectly with those of an amateur detective.
First off, tour guides need to be observant and analytical. While scouting locations for her tour, the author had to pay close attention to her surroundings, spotting details that could enhance the storytelling experience. This keen eye for context is essential for detectives, who must notice subtle clues that might otherwise go overlooked.
Additionally, reading people is crucial for tour guides. They must gauge their audience's reactions to ensure their stories are engaging and that guests are comfortable. This ability to interpret body language and facial expressions is equally important for detectives interviewing suspects, helping them discern the truth behind the words.
Adaptability is another key trait. The author faced unexpected challenges during her tours, like changing weather and sudden street closures, requiring her to think on her feet. This skill mirrors what detectives must do when new evidence or surprises arise in an investigation.
Tour guides also possess an intimate knowledge of their city, knowing all the hidden gems and shortcuts. This familiarity gives them an advantage, whether they're leading a group or trying to escape a dangerous situation. Finally, the research skills they develop—digging into various topics and building a network of experts—are invaluable for detectives needing to uncover information about suspects or crimes.
After her experience, the author gained a deeper respect for tour guides and is convinced that their skills make them ideal amateur sleuths. With Capri's resourcefulness and knowledge of San Francisco, the author feels confident in putting her character in perilous situations, knowing she can handle whatever comes her way.
There’s a unique intersection of horror and animal advocacy in literature that’s worth exploring, especially if you’re an animal lover. The list starts with Kira Jane Buxton’s *Hollow Kingdom*, where a pet crow named Shit Turd narrates a zombie apocalypse. With humans turned into violent, unrecognizable creatures, Shit Turd and his dog buddy, Dennis, embark on a quest to save their owner and other pets trapped in this chaos. It’s a blend of humor and heartbreak that’s beautifully written.
Then there’s Stephen Graham Jones’ *The Only Good Indians*, which dives deep into themes of retribution. A group of friends from the Blackfeet nation faces the consequences of a hunting trip gone wrong, where they kill a pregnant elk. The haunting spirit of the elk mother seeks vengeance, making this a chilling read that lingers long after you turn the last page.
Catriona Ward’s *The Last House on Needless Street* offers a complex narrative with multiple unreliable narrators, including a cat named Olivia. The story unfolds around the mystery of a missing girl, intertwining the perspectives of the main suspect and those connected to the case. It’s a slow burn that keeps you guessing, with Olivia providing some of the most objective insights.
In Josh Malerman’s *Pearl*, we meet a telepathic pig who influences a boy into committing horrific acts. The story explores the dark side of animal intelligence and manipulation, leading to a gruesome revenge plot against those who harm pigs. It’s a thought-provoking and unsettling read that challenges our perceptions of animals.
Lastly, Agustina Bazterrica’s *Tender is the Flesh* presents a dystopian world where a pandemic has wiped out all edible animal meat, leading to state-sanctioned cannibalism. While it doesn’t feature animal characters, it starkly critiques the ethics of meat consumption, making it a harrowing but essential read for anyone concerned about animal rights. Each of these novels invites readers to consider the often-overlooked perspectives of animals in horror, delivering both chills and thought-provoking themes.
Encyclopedia Brown and the Ethics of Amateur Sleuthing
The current crop of YA detective stories often features protagonists who engage in questionable behaviors to uncover the truth, raising ethical dilemmas about their methods. While these narratives typically end on a victorious note, they gloss over the moral complexities involved in their sleuthing. The author grapples with the implications of celebrating such amateur investigations, especially in a society where confidence in authority is waning.
Despite the fictional nature of these stories, they reflect real frustrations with systemic failures. The piece suggests that while fiction can entertain, it also has the power to inspire young readers to think critically about their world. Books like "Missing Clarissa" and "Promise Boys" challenge the notion of simple victories, exploring the consequences of amateur sleuthing and the potential for creating change. Ultimately, the article advocates for a diverse range of narratives that not only entertain but also engage with the complexities of morality and justice in a flawed system.
Something Followed Us Home: “el Jíbaro de puerto rico”
In a quiet, intimate setting, Victoria wakes up to her Abuelo preparing for a significant day. He's dressed neatly, stirring coffee, and shares that today marks the last misa, a ceremony for a family mourning their son, Jonathan. The atmosphere is heavy yet comforting, filled with the aroma of coffee and the sounds of morning life outside. As they prepare for the guests from San Juan, Victoria feels a mix of excitement and self-consciousness about her appearance, comparing her simple dress to the modern styles she imagines the city dwellers wear.
Abuelo, with his wisdom, reminds her that true richness isn't about wealth but the happiness found in their simple life on the mountain. He emphasizes gratitude for their surroundings, their animals, and each other. As the preparations unfold, Victoria learns that this misa is different; it's not just about the dead but also about Jonathan's troubling dreams. This revelation leaves her confused, as she grapples with the idea that this misa will focus on the living rather than the deceased.
As Abuelo sets up a table for the ceremony, Victoria reflects on past misas, which traditionally connect the living with the dead. The shift in purpose for this last misa stirs emotions within her, as she realizes the significance of confirming Jonathan's experiences to his mother. The memories of a past celebration come flooding back, hinting at the weight of history and personal connection that permeates their lives. The story weaves together themes of loss, memory, and the deep bonds of family, all set against the backdrop of Puerto Rican culture and tradition.