The Writer's Complete Crime Reference Book [Hardcover]

Martin Roth (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: June 1993

"The perfect crime-writer's reference book is here... a good quick reference book for editors, a source of plot ideas, and an invaluable collection of information..". -- Mystery Scene Magazine

Editorial Reviews

From School Library Journal

YA-A helpful and complete reference source. Chapters on crime, criminals, cops, investigations, courts, prisons, and language offer tips to writers who want their stories to be realistic but who cannot do the primary research themselves. Specialized vocabulary, including the latest crime-related slang, is presented and most sections have lists for further reading.
Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 304 pages
• Publisher: Writers Digest Books; Rev Sub edition (June 1993)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0898795648
• ISBN-13: 978-0898795646
• Product Dimensions: 9.1 x 6.1 x 1.2 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.3 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 4.8 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (5 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #961,873 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

20 of 20 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Mystery writers need this book!, March 31, 2000

By 

"hmoos" - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Writer's Complete Crime Reference Book (Hardcover)

Roth deals with all of the major issues involved in crimes. He has a comprehensive list on topics such as motives for homicides, frequently abused drugs, and firearms. The book explores the workings of the police, justice system and investigations. At the end of every chapter you will find a reference list for additional information on the topics covered. Note that this is a reference book--it is not meant to read cover to cover. Browse through the book, highlight, and reread the sections that interest you. This is an essential book for any mystery writer.

15 of 16 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Good book to use as a starting point., August 16, 2001

By 

irmita "irmita" (usa) - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Writer's Complete Crime Reference Book (Hardcover)

I am really intrigued whenever I read a brand new mystery or suspense thriller, which is why I thought about writing mystery short stories. Hence, I purchased this reference book in hopes that it will inform me about everything I need to know behind law enforcement. It does give details on the legal system, the police force and criminals. The author discusses crimes and has a lists of weapons. It does provide minor information on police procedure and "cop talk." In addition, there are extensive lists on books to look at for more information. However, this book does have its flaws. It only contains brief paragraphs on some topics, so don't rely entirely on this book for information to write your novel or short story. It is a detailed book, but does not include as much info. as I had originally hoped.

11 of 12 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Stop Talking to the Police!, January 5, 2001

By 

FictionAddiction.NET - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Writer's Complete Crime Reference Book (Hardcover)

This book is your guide to the police department. No more countless hours of interviewing the police to learn about procedures and organization.

There's a complete list of weapons terms, fundamentals of investigation, even police and crime slang. While it's interesting enough to read the whole way through, you can flip right to the source you need. There are even rules of evidence and organizational charts to help make your writing more "real."