True Crime Book Club: Oct. 2024

Douglas J. Preston is an American author known for his contributions to the thriller and adventure genres. Born on May 26, 1956, in Cambridge, Massachusetts, he grew up in Wellesley and graduated from Pomona College in Claremont, California, with a degree in English literature.

Preston began his writing career at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City, where he worked as a writer and editor for the museum's magazine. This position allowed him to collaborate with Lincoln Child, another author with whom he later co-wrote numerous novels.

Some key points about Douglas J. Preston's life and career include:

1. Collaboration with Lincoln Child:

   • Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child formed a successful writing partnership, and together they co-authored a series of bestselling techno-thrillers, including the Pendergast series.

2. Pendergast Series:

   • The Pendergast series features FBI Special Agent Aloysius Pendergast, a character known for his intelligence and eccentricities. The series has gained a dedicated fan base and includes titles like "Relic," "The Cabinet of Curiosities," and "The Book of the Dead."

3. Solo Work:

   • In addition to his collaborations with Lincoln Child, Douglas Preston has written several solo novels, including works of non-fiction and standalone thrillers.

4. True Crime:

   • Preston has also delved into the true crime genre. "The Monster of Florence," co-written with journalist Mario Spezi, explores a real-life serial killer case in Italy.

5. Other Writing Ventures:

   • Beyond his novels, Preston has written for various publications, including The New Yorker, Smithsonian, and National Geographic.

6. Personal Life:

   • Douglas J. Preston is married to Christine Preston, and they have three children. The family has lived in various locations, including New Mexico, Maine, and Italy.

7. Adventure and Exploration:

   • Preston has a keen interest in adventure and exploration. He has participated in archaeological expeditions and explored remote and challenging terrains.

"The Monster of Florence," co-written by Douglas J. Preston and Mario Spezi, investigates a real-life series of murders that occurred in the hills surrounding Florence, Italy, between the late 1960s and the 1980s. The case involved a series of gruesome killings, and the perpetrator became known as the "Monster of Florence."

The Monster of Florence was never conclusively identified or apprehended, and the case remains unsolved. The killer targeted young couples who were parked in cars in secluded lovers' lanes, and the murders were characterized by brutality and a degree of ritualistic behavior. The investigation into these crimes faced numerous challenges, including the involvement of multiple investigators over the years, media sensationalism, and a complex web of theories and suspects.

The book delves into the intricacies of the investigation, the impact on the community, and the various theories surrounding the identity of the Monster of Florence. It explores the cultural and social context of Italy, the challenges faced by law enforcement, and the potential influence of the media on the case.

While the Monster of Florence case remains officially unsolved, the book provides a detailed and captivating examination of the events, personalities involved, and the lasting impact on the region. The authors, Preston and Spezi, bring their journalistic and investigative skills to unravel the complexities of this compelling true crime story.

The Relic (1997)

Thrilling tale about a deadly creature at large in the Chicago Field Museum. Following several grisly murders, a policeman teams up with a biologist to find the demonic force stalking the corridors of the museum. With the museum's gala opening being imminent, they face a race against time to track down the creature before it strikes again.