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With the holidays fast approaching (why does it always sneak up on me so quickly?!) it’s time to find your true crime bestie something fantastic this year. The following items are all goodies that I was either gifted or that I bought myself that I absolutely love. I know that one of these items (or all of them!) will make the perfect gift.
1. Chase Darkness With Me - Billy Jensen
I read a lot of True Crime non-fiction and I have to say that Billy Jensen’s book is one of the best that I’ve read (and listened to.) As an investigative journalist, Billy Jensen has come up with a way to solve murders himself using social media. I love the way that this book combines stories of Billy’s life and crimes that he has worked on. I really feel like you get to know him and are along for the ride as he investigates. If your bestie is passionate about citizen sleuthing, loved Michelle McNamara’s I’ll Be Gone In The Dark (he talks about his relationship with her and how he helped finish the book), or has listened to Billy’s podcast with Paul Holes “The Murder Squad,” they will need this book. The audiobook is also spectacularly read by Billy himself. You and your bestie probably need both the book and audiobook.
I am absolutely obsessed with the shirts from Crackers & Milk. The shop owner, Chelsea, is a true entrepreneur who comes up with some seriously witty shirts. The “True Crime + Taco Bell,” one speaks to my two greatest loves. If your bestie is any thing like me, this will be a fantastic gift. But if the Cheesy Gordita Crunch isn’t their thing (are you sure you’ve chosen the right friend?!) there are tons of other adorable shirts and sweatshirts options. They are all so soft and high quality. And you have to love supporting a small business.
3. Hunt A Killer Subscription
If you want to give your bestie a gift that will last for months, a Hunt A Killer subscription is a fun option. A box of evidence, clues, and puzzles will come each month that will allow your bestie to be a detective to solve a fictional crime story. Each story is a “season” that lasts 6 months, so you’re probably going to want to opt for the 6 month gift option. Also, each box helps to fund The Cold Case Foundation, so not only is the gift fun, but it goes toward a great cause as well. I received a subscription as an anniversary gift and could not wait to get my box each month.
4. Serial Killer Coloring Book
I love that adult coloring books are all the rage right now. If your bestie loves to color and/or enjoys learning facts about infamous serial killers, this coloring book is for them. Pair it with some fancy colored pencils or pens, and it will make a great gift. I received mine as a gift and love it so much I’m afraid to color in it for fear of messing it up!
5. Basically A Detective Sweatshirt
My mom and I took a trip to Seattle for CrowdSolve this past October and I scored this awesome sweatshirt. If you and your bestie are talking about going to CrimeCon this year (you really should) you both need one. I live in hoodies throughout the fall and winter and have practically worn this one every day since I got it (don’t worry I wash it.) It is soft and cozy and every time that I wear it people ask me where I got it.
It also comes in a v-neck shirt version that my mom opted for (we like to twin) but I personally love that the sweatshirt has the CrimeCon logo on the sleeve.
6. Criminal Mind Puzzle Book
This year I was part of a True Crime Secret Santa Exchange, and my Secret Santa sent me this fun book. Full of verbal and visual puzzles, this book is going to keep me busy for hours. I plan to keep it in my purse and go through it whenever I have to wait at appointments. Help your bestie keep their mind sharp by getting them this book. It would also be fun to go through some of the puzzles together, maybe over some wine!
7. Alcatraz East Crime Museum
If you want an experience you both can enjoy together, take your bestie to the Alcatraz East Crime Museum in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. My mom and I went this past August and we spent hours going through all the exhibits. You can see everything from Ted Bundy’s VW Bug to John Dillingers’ death mask. There is so much to learn and see for any true crime enthusiast. My personal favorite was the interactive crime scene investigation exhibit. They also have a fantastic gift shop where you can get even more true crime gifts.
What are you getting your true crime bestie this year and what’s on your own wishlist?
