BooksChatter: ℚ♫ The Vampire Next Door

Today we have the pleasure of meeting up with author J.T. Hunter to talk about The Vampire Next Door: The True Story of the Vampire Rapist (8 September 2014, RJ Parker Publishing, 365 pages), a True Crime book.

"Every Detective looks for that one case, this was my case. It became my mission. This book documents exactly what transpired in the John Crutchley case." -- Det. Robert Leatherow, Chief of Detectives, Brevard County Sheriff's Office, (Retired)

"I have written sixteen true crime books, and have read hundreds. I can honestly say that this book is one of the best, well-written and gripping true stories I've ever read" -- (RJ Parker)

"The disintegration of a seemingly normal, brilliant man into a psychopath so evil, so methodical in his killings, that makes one wonder if he was at all human" -- (Crime Magazine)

|| Synopsis || Teaser: KCR Preview || Author Q&A || About the Author || Giveaway & Tour Stops ||

A very warm welcome back to J.T. Hunter; thank you for joining us on BooksChatter!

As you know, here at BooksChatter we love music; do you have a music playlist that you used in The Vampire Next Door, or which inspired you whilst you were writing it?

"Massive Attack’s album, Mezzanine, is my go-to for writing!"

How did you first come across John Crutchley, and what compelled you to write The Vampire Next Door?

"This was my first book. At the time I was considering various subjects to write about, a family member who was in law enforcement knew the lead detective on the Crutchley case. He told me about the case and when I did some preliminary research online I found the case extremely interesting. I was subsequently introduced to the detective and ended up working closely with him throughout the process of writing the book."

What was one of the most surprising things you learned in writing this book?

"John Crutchley had a genius level IQ and Top Secret security clearance at the Pentagon."

Why should we read The Vampire Next Door and what sets it apart from the rest? What makes your book unique?

"It’s fascinating how he led two lives – one as white collar computer whiz working on classified projects for the U.S. Navy, and one as a bizarre serial killer who drank his victims’ blood."

What has been your greatest challenge in writing The Vampire Next Door? What was the hardest part to write?

"Deciding what to include and what to omit from the wealth of research materials I gathered."

Can you share with us a favourite passage / section (this can be a recollection or an excerpt)?

“The authorities handling the Crutchley case are convinced that they have another Bundy on their hands, and to some extent they are right. However, Crutchley is far more dangerous, and would make Bundy look like an amateur in many respects . . . . John is in a class all by himself. He is a very intelligent, sick human being. He has gotten away with murder so many times, he feels he’s untouchable, and for the last twenty years he’s proved himself right.” (Diary entry of Crutchley’s cellmate)

Who would you recommend The Vampire Next Door to and what should readers be aware of (any warnings or disclaimers)?

"Recommended to anyone interested in learning about a monster in disguise who managed to hide in plain sight. The story includes some description of the rape of one of Crutchley’s victims."

What advice or pointers would you give to someone who is interested in writing a true crime book? Are there any particular issues you encountered that would make life easier for them?

"During the research process, be prepared for rejection (from victims/victims’ families, law enforcement, and other witnesses). Then be prepared for more rejection when you try to get your book published."

Writing can be difficult at times, how do you overcome writers block?

"I take a break and let my mind recharge, whether it be a few hours or few days. That usually does the trick."

When writing, do you have any habits or rituals that are consistent? Location, food, drink etc.

"The only habit I know of is that I often listen to music when writing or revising. Strangely, it helps me focus."

What’s in store next for you as a person and writer?

"I’ll be speaking to a True Crime Book Club in Central Florida in March. And I’m in the end stages of my next book, which I hope to publish by this summer."

And as a final quirky thing, to get to know you a little bit better... Can you tell us about your hero or main influence?

"In Cold Blood influenced me as my first introduction to the world of true crime. My main writing influence is Kurt Vonnegut. I love his humor and style. "

Thank you for sharing, J.T.

We hope you are having a great tour!

While he stalked the streets hunting his unsuspecting victims, the residents of a quiet Florida town slept soundly, oblivious to the dark creature in their midst, unaware of...