Book Review: A Monster in Mount Pleasant by CJ Williams

 

It is 1978 in the quaint, idyllic town of Mount Pleasant, Iowa, a lovely place to raise a family and a low-risk community where there hadn’t been a murder since 1944. Then, within six months, three brutal murders shattered that sense of safety, leaving the town reeling. When a local teenager was arrested, it was as shocking as the crimes themselves. Author CJ Williams explores the twisting road to justice with a compelling, clear-eyed true crime narrative and a unique perspective: he was a teenager living in Mount Pleasant during these crimes, and he knew those who lost their lives, their families, and the perpetrator. The author paints a robust, compassionate portrait of the victims and their roles in their families, honoring their memories in a way that is both respectful and deeply moving.


As a federal judge and former prosecutor, Williams brings meticulous research, seasoned insight, and an impressive command of jurisprudence to the story. This is not a whodunnit; instead, Williams aptly explains the intricacies of the judicial process, making the legal twists as gripping as the crimes themselves. His respect for civil protections is clear, as are the legal missteps that entangled the case for decades. While the wheels of justice roll slowly, we understand each painstaking detail, which brings true satisfaction when we turn the last page.


As the host of the Murder Shelf Book Club Podcast, I read many true crime books, and I found A Monster in Mount Pleasant exceptional. Williams recounts these little-known cases with respect, dignity, and remarkable narrative control, creating a true crime story that is thorough, absorbing, and genuinely appreciated by readers who value both humanity and legal precision. I highly recommend it for any true crime enthusiast, thoughtful reader, or book club group looking for a powerful, well-researched discussion.




In Episodes 181, 183, and 185, I featured this book, and I interviewed CJ Williams in Ep 187. Check them out!




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