Yes and no. There are crime fiction books that are based on true stories. Authors might take a real crime and fictionalize it, changing names, adding fictional characters or plot twists. But many crime fiction works are completely made up. They're the product of the author's creativity, designed to entertain readers with fictional mysteries and crimes.
They usually have a lot of research behind them. Authors of these books have to dig deep into police reports, interviews with witnesses and survivors, and sometimes even court transcripts. 'Helter Skelter' is a prime example. The author had to piece together a complex web of information to tell the story of the Manson Family murders accurately.
No. While some crime fiction books might be inspired by real - life events or crimes, a large number are not. Authors often use their creativity to come up with unique crime plots, characters, and settings that have no basis in real - life events.
They often have a sense of authenticity. Since they are based on real events, the details feel more real and raw. For example, in 'In Cold Blood', the descriptions of the crime scene and the investigation are very detailed.
One great true crime book based on a true story is 'In Cold Blood' by Truman Capote. It details the brutal murder of a family in Kansas. Another is 'Helter Skelter' which tells the story of the Manson Family murders. 'The Devil in the White City' is also a notable one, combining the true story of the 1893 Chicago World's Fair with the serial killings of H. H. Holmes.
There's 'Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil' which is based on a true crime that took place in Savannah, Georgia. It not only delves into the crime but also the unique culture and characters of the city. These books are all very interesting reads if you like crime stories based on real - life events.
Some parts of 'American Crime' are based on true events, but there's also fictional elements added for dramatic effect. It blends reality and creativity to create an engaging story.