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Helter Skelter  By  cover art

Helter Skelter

By: Vincent Bugliosi, Curt Gentry
Narrated by: Scott Brick
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Publisher's summary

Prosecuting attorney in the Manson trial Vincent Bugliosi held a unique insider's position in one of the most baffling and horrifying cases of the 20th century: the cold-blooded Tate-LaBianca murders carried out by Charles Manson and four of his followers. What motivated Manson in his seemingly mindless selection of victims, and what was his hold over the young women who obeyed his orders? Now available for the first time in unabridged audio, the gripping story of this famous and haunting crime is brought to life by acclaimed narrator Scott Brick.

©1974 Curt Gentry and Vincent Bugliosi, Afterword 1994 by Vincent Bugliosi (P)2011 Audible, Inc.

Critic reviews

“One of the best crime stories ever written.” (Chicago Sun-Times)

Featured Article: The Best True Crime Audiobooks for Your Inner Detective


The best true crime audiobooks will have you on the edge of your seat—whether the story divulges details about well-known serial killers or unidentified villains of unsolved crimes. You won’t be able to stop listening as each mystery unravels, especially when these fascinating, gripping tales are read by some of the most captivating voices in audio. Here are the best true crime audiobooks to get your heart racing.

Editor's Pick

The real story of the Manson Family
"Fifty years after the Manson murders, there are still a lot of questions to unpack. How did a man who never killed anyone himself become known as one of the 20th century’s most infamous murderers? What motivated his young followers to do his evil bidding, and why did the trial end up in the annals of legal history? Prosecutor Vincent Bugliosi’s legendary book on the trial remains the definitive source on the case—and Scott Brick’s pitch-perfect narration will hold your attention the whole way through."
Kat J., Audible Editor

What listeners say about Helter Skelter

Average customer ratings
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    4 out of 5 stars

Long but worth it

I didn't know very much about the Manson Murders when I started this book, but I can safely say I have been properly educated now. A chilling true story told by someone so close to the case, worth every minute of your time.

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Still Compelling

Very interesting story of the Manson murders and family and the ensuing investigation and trial by the lead prosecutor. The narrator sets just the right tone and enhances the book. I highly recommend.

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Must listen

This is such a well written and thorough account of the Manson murders and trial as well as aftermath that it is a much read for all true crime fans.

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amazing story

I've always been fascinated with this case. the narrator is amazing and I learned things I never knew. 10 out of 10 would read again.

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Haunting True Tale

I knew of the Manson murders, but only now do I know the depth and the truth behind it all. Incredibly enlightening and haunting.

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A must read!

I was captivated by this book from beginning to end. Whether or not you know about the Manson murders you will be compelled to keep listening. I was familiar with Manson but I never knew how truly bizarre the case was until reading this book. Several times I went back and listened to chapters over again because I couldn’t believe some of the events.

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The gold standard for true crime books

What did you love best about Helter Skelter?

It blows away just about any crime novel I have ever read. No one not even James Elroy could think this stuff up.

What was the most compelling aspect of this narrative?

The casual and very tenuous but also very chilling connection between the victims, near victims and the killers created at the fringes of the entertainment industry in Los Angeles. Sex, drugs, hippies, bikers, record producers, cowboy extras, big name recording artists, The Black Panthers, The Beatles and the Bible's Book of Revelation all combine to create the most off the wall over the top insane motive for murder and mayhem ever.

Have you listened to any of Scott Brick’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

I have not but he does an outstanding job. The hair stood up at the back of my neck many times during his narration.

Any additional comments?

Even if you read the book when it came out in the early 70's it still seems very fresh and is worth a re-read or better yet a listen.

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CHILLING STORY WELL TOLD

Like I said Bugliosi relates in the first person as well as anyone. I was living in L.A. at the time but had no idea how close we all were to murder...

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Comprehensive and Thoughtful

Didn't realize I was signing up for such a long listen. But the presentation was so comprehensive and interesting. The author was thorough and detailed both in execution of his job and his writing. Was fair in not throwing folks under the bus or did so in an understated way.

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Engaging!

Thoroughly engaging throughout the entirety of this book. Recommended for someone wanting to feel like you're right there with the characters.

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