On The Table Read Magazine, “the best entertainment eBook magazine UK“, discover the popularity of true crime, the UK’s hottest reading trend, as Readly’s Retro Series and gripping books like Helter Skelter: The True Story of The Manson Murders unravel notorious cases and mysteries!
As summer unfolds, true crime has emerged as the genre of choice for British readers, dominating poolside loungers, long travel journeys, and cozy home retreats. A recent study by the Readly digital magazine and newspaper app reveals that 74 percent of UK readers are drawn to true crime, which boasts the highest average reading times across various genres on the platform. From notorious serial killers to baffling disappearances, true crime’s gripping narratives are fueling a national obsession.
Why True Crime Resonates
The allure of true crime lies in its ability to unravel the complexities of human behavior and societal undercurrents. Over 60 percent of readers are motivated by a desire to understand the criminal mind, while 53 percent relish the mystery of solving intricate cases. For 40 percent, the genre satisfies a craving for justice, particularly in exposing wrongful convictions, and 39 percent are hooked by the high stakes of real-world events.
The genre’s raw emotional impact—stemming from stories of real victims, offenders, and consequences—creates a deep connection with readers, challenging their sense of safety and civility. Solving a “whodunit” offers some a sense of intellectual triumph, while others confront their fears by delving into the darkest corners of human nature.
True crime also serves as a thrilling escape, especially during the holiday season. Nearly half of readers (48 percent) fancy themselves as potential detectives, while 28 percent view the genre as a safe way to experience fear and suspense. This blend of psychological intrigue, mystery, and adrenaline makes true crime an ideal summer companion.
Popular True Crime Themes
Readers are drawn to a variety of true crime narratives. High-profile cases with unexpected twists captivate 47 percent, while 41 percent focus on notorious serial killers unmasked after years of terror. Stories of criminals leading double lives intrigue 35 percent, vanishings without a trace grip 32 percent, and wrongful convictions fascinate 31 percent. These themes reflect a curiosity about the extraordinary and the unresolved, offering readers a chance to explore the edges of human experience.
Reading Trends and Engagement
Readly’s data highlights true crime’s dominance in reader engagement. The genre generates the highest average reading time per issue compared to history, lifestyle, and celebrity titles. Lifestyle magazines with true crime specials see particularly strong engagement, with readers spending 44 and 35 minutes per issue, respectively, far surpassing TV and film (27 minutes), science (20 minutes), and cars and motoring (19 minutes). This trend underscores true crime’s ability to hold readers’ attention with its compelling storytelling and real-world stakes.
Readly’s True Crime Retro Series
To feed this growing appetite, Readly has partnered with The Evening Standard to launch a True Crime Retro Series, offering archived coverage of infamous historical crimes. The series includes cases like Jack the Ripper’s final murder in 1888, the trial of Dr. Crippen in 1910, the Great Train Robbery of 1963, and the chilling House of Horrors linked to serial killer Fred West in 1994. This collection allows readers to dive into the raw, unfiltered reports of historic crimes, blending nostalgia with the genre’s enduring appeal. The series is part of Readly’s effort to expand its content portfolio, which includes over 8,000 digital magazines and newspapers accessible through a subscription model.
Recommended True Crime Books
The Suspicions of Mr. Whicher by Kate Summerscale
A historical true crime classic, this book revisits the 1860 Constance Kent case, a Victorian murder that sparked national hysteria and inspired modern detective fiction. Summerscale examines Inspector Jonathan Whicher’s investigation, offering a meticulous reappraisal of a case that remains a cornerstone of the genre. Ideal for readers fascinated by disappearances and historical mysteries.
Helter Skelter: The True Story of The Manson Murders by Vincent Bugliosi
The best-selling true crime book of all time, this 1974 account details the 1969 Manson Family murders, including the brutal killing of Sharon Tate. Written by the prosecuting attorney, it offers unparalleled insight into Charles Manson’s psychology and the trial that captivated the world. A must-read for those drawn to serial killer narratives.
The Dublin Railway Murder by Thomas Morris
This meticulously researched book recounts the baffling 1856 murder of George Little, a railway cashier found dead in Dublin. Despite the efforts of Ireland’s top detective and lawyer, the case defied explanation, even stumping Scotland Yard. Perfect for readers who enjoy Victorian-era mysteries and unsolved crimes.
Somebody’s Mother, Somebody’s Daughter by Carol Ann Lee
Focusing on the victims of Peter Sutcliffe, the Yorkshire Ripper, this book shifts the narrative to the women whose lives were devastated. Lee’s empathetic storytelling highlights the human cost of Sutcliffe’s crimes, making it a powerful choice for readers interested in justice and victim-centered accounts.
These books align with the themes UK readers gravitate toward—serial killers, high-profile cases, disappearances, and justice—while offering fresh perspectives and historical depth.
About Readly and the Research
Readly, a European leader in digital subscriptions, provides unlimited access to 8,000 national and international titles in 17 languages, serving subscribers in 50 countries. In 2024, the company reported revenues of SEK 725 million and is listed on Nasdaq First North Growth Market. The research, conducted by Ipsos for Readly in March 2025, surveyed 1,000 UK residents, with comparative data from Sweden and Germany. For more information, visit www.readly.com.
True crime’s surge in popularity reflects a deep-seated curiosity about the human condition, making it the perfect genre for summer 2025. Whether through Readly’s retro series or the latest true crime books, UK readers have plenty to keep them enthralled.
We strive to keep The Table Read free for both our readers and our contributors. If you have enjoyed our work, please consider donating to help keep The Table Read going!
ztccjw
a131lb