A fascinating insight into an often hidden profession, with a lot of self-reflection by the author (though not in an arrogant way, quite the opposite!).

One of the most insightful books on forensic psychology that I have read. Rather than writing small tidbits about a multitude of cases, the author instead focuses on eleven specific cases (covering various crimes from the UK - serial murder, stalking, arson, child abuse - committed by both men and women). Each chapter discusses a case, and Dr Adshead describes her interactions and treatments of the individual, going into their background, the motivations for their actions and what has happened to them following their treatment.

I was a little bit put off by the first chapter in which she talks about having some compassion for these people, but by the end of the book I completely understand where she is coming from. Her ability to see these people as humans, as something more than their actions, is remarkable....and I'm not sure if that is a personality trait unique to her, or due to the field she is in.

Highly recommended if you have an interest in criminal/forensic psychology.

I couldn’t put this book down. From the first case through to the last it was such an interesting read and interesting perspective.