The dead can tell us all about themselves: where they came from, how they lived, how they died, and, of course, who killed them. Forensic scientists can unlock the mysteries of the past and help serve justice using the messages left by a corpse, a crime scene, or the faintest of human traces. This book draws on crime novelist McDermid's own interviews and firsthand experience on scene with top forensic scientists. Along the way, McDermid discovers...

"Crime novelist and former police officer Nigel McCrery provides an account of all the major areas of forensic science from around the world over the past two centuries. The book weaves dramatic narrative and scientific principles together in a way that allows readers to figure out crimes along with the experts. Readers are introduced to such fascinating figures as Dr. Edmond Locard, the "French Sherlock Holmes; " Edward Heinrich, "Wizard of Berkeley,...

"No two stories about the capture of a serial killer are the same. Sometimes, the killers make crucial mistakes; other times, investigators get lucky. And the process of profiling, hunting, and apprehending these predators has changed radically over time, particularly in the field of criminal forensics, which has exploded in the last ten to 15 years. Laser ablation, video spectral analysis, cyber-sleuthing, and even DNA-based genetic genealogy are...

"A compelling account of forensic science's role in 50 great crime cases, this book brings to light its early development and the amazing sleuthing techniques employed today"--Publisher's description..

Presents a collection of real-life cases that were solved by forensic firearms examiners and describes how a single bullet can lead authorities to the criminal.

"Traces the cases in recent history that have been solved using the latest forensic science of the time, such as the first case to use fingerprint evidence, hair matching, and DNA profiling. Includes real case files and case studies"--

Presents a collection of famous cases solved by handwriting analysis including the Lindbergh kidnapping and the Hitler diaries.