The Stranger Beside Me

Written by Ann Rule

Narrated by Lorelei King

From #1 New York Times bestselling author Ann Rule, “America’s best true-crime writer” (Kirkus Reviews), her unforgettable classic account of the horrifying murders in the Pacific Northwest and her shock when she discovered her friend—Ted Bundy—was not only a suspect but also one of the most prolific serial killers in American history.

Meeting in 1971 at a Seattle crisis clinic, Ann Rule and Ted Bundy developed a friendship and correspondence that would span the rest of his life. Rule had no idea that when they went their separate ways, their paths would cross again under shocking circumstances.

The Stranger Beside Me is Rule’s compelling firsthand account of not just her relationship with Bundy, but also his life—from his complicated childhood to the media circus of his trials. Astonishing in its intimacy and with Rule’s clear-eyed prose, you can’t help but share in her growing horror at discovering that her friend was one of the most notorious American serial killers.

An unforgettable and haunting work of research, journalism, and personal memories, The Stranger Beside Me is “as dramatic and chilling as a bedroom window shattering at midnight” (The New York Times).

• Language: English
• Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio
• Release date: Feb 21, 2012
• ISBN: 9781442353800

Ann Rule

Ann Rule (1931–2015) wrote thirty-five New York Times bestsellers, all of them still in print. Her first bestseller was The Stranger Beside Me, about her personal relationship with infamous serial killer Ted Bundy. A former Seattle police officer, she used her firsthand expertise in all her books. For more than three decades, she was a powerful advocate for victims of violent crime.

Reviews for The Stranger Beside Me

[drt_4 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

The next book I read was The Stranger Beside Me by Ann Rule. Since I was reminded of the Zodiac book I read a long time ago I thought I'd read about another serial kill. I picked up this book about Ted Bundy. The author, Ann Rule, worked along side him at a telephone hotline where she heard him do work that saved people's lives. Ms. Rule appeared to have a crush on Bundy with his handsome looks, good verbal ability, and clean-cut appearance back in the 60's and 70's. I appeared to me that she was torn whether or not to believe his innocence. This book goes through a biography of Ted's life, the troubled youth, his schooling, the crimes, and legal aspects of his cases. It was interesting that he quickly was liked by people and was a young republican name as he was growing up. I did not think the book went too deep into the gore of the crimes and did not talk about all of the seventy six or so murders that he committed. It was interesting how it chronicled where he lived and how he went through towns particularly in Utah. To me, he did not appear to be a person that handles refusal well. I know that is not much about that book but I'd be happy to talk to anybody that wants to talk about it. Just let me know.

[lesliewright34 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Absolutely fascinating how this true crime writer, of all things, worked alongside and was friends with, Ted Bundy. Rule does a fantastic job detailing their relationship and his heinous crimes, and remaining objective throughout.

[bookworm12_1 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

This nonfiction look at the strange case of Ted Bundy is chilly to say the least. The author knew him well and was researching the killings without realizing she knew the killer. At times it dips into her personal life, which I could have done without, but to be fair, her real life was intertwined with his so it was relevant.

[Thomas Cummins · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

best true crime thing I've ever read listened to or watched a must read

[skelterhelter_1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I think this is my favorite Ann Rule book, hands down. Not only because it's well-written, but because she knew Ted Bundy personally (she worked along side him at the Crisis Center in the late 60's, never knowing her good friend and co-worker was a cold-blooded serial killer). Ted Bundy is one of the most fascinating serial killers to me in the fact that he looked nothing like a killer--he was handsome, charismatic, and well-liked by everyone...yet, he brutally kidnapped, raped, and murdered dozens of young women. He was not only a sexual deviant, but a necrophiliac as well (straddling two types of serial killers, which is rare). This book is told from a person who knew him well and it definitely shows. 'The Stranger Beside Me' is not to be missed (especially if you're a fan of true crime novels!)

[longdogmom · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Ann Rule is one of the best true crime writers around, but the added insights from her personal relationship with Ted Bundy made this a truly exceptional and fascinating read. The fact that Bundy could so easily hide the horrific parts of his personality from so many, including Ms. Rule who clearly was experienced with criminals and disturbed personalities from her work with the police and in crime writing, was astonishing and frightening. It makes one realize that we could all be fooled by such a person, a terrifying thought. Bundy's brutality juxtaposed with his thoughtfulness and kindness in his dealings with friends was chilling. A very rare and unusual glimpse into one of America's most prolific serial killers.

[coloradogirl14 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I read horror novels like they're going out of style, I devour twisted psychological suspense stories, and yet I have the strongest reactions to true crime accounts. I guess that's not surprising, since these events actually happened, but The Stranger Beside Me scared the living daylights out of me.Ann Rule's account of her relationship with Ted Bundy, before and after he was charged with murder, is straightforward but still manages to delve into the emotional aspects of the case, both in terms of her friendship with Bundy and in terms of his many female victims. The writing is not spectacular, but in this case, it really doesn't have to be. The facts speak for themselves. (Some readers don't respond well to this type of writing, but it seems to be more of a preference thing than a comment on the writing talent. I personally think this type of straightforward writing is extremely effective.)The crime scenes are stomach-turning and graphic, which juxtaposes horrifically with Bundy's suave, charismatic demeanor. Simply put, this book is terrifying and still gives me chills when I think about it. Bonus chapters, epilogues, and forewords show just how far Ted Bundy's infamy has spread through American culture...25 years after his execution, we're still talking about him.Readalikes:Green River Running Red - Ann Rule. If you liked how this serial killer account unfolded, from the murders to official investigations, to the trial, GRRR is another must-read. This time, the murderer is the Green River Killer, who was finally caught at the end of a 20+ year reign of terror in the Pacific Northwest.My Life Among the Serial Killers - Helen Morrison. A forensic psychologist interviews several infamous serial killers in the hopes of learning what makes these murderers tick, and how they became serial killers.The Good Nurse - Charles Graeber. Although this book isn't written from an insider's perspective, it evokes many of the same powerful and visceral reactions as TSBM. The Good Nurse covers the crimes of Charlie Cullen, a male nurse on the East Coast who killed as many as 300 patients in his 16+ years of hospital experience.Defending Gary - Mark Prothero. An insider's perspective into an infamous serial murder case - in this instance, written by the lead defense attorney for Gary Ridgeway, the Green River Killer.John Wayne Gacy - Sam L. Amirante. See above. This book, however, covers the trial and crimes of John Wayne Gacy, the Chicago serial killer who dressed like a clown for his victims.

[ibeth_2 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

One of the best true crime books ever written (up there with Helter Skelter and Doc: the Rape of the town of Lovell). The crime descriptions are too painful for me to read (now that I am a parent) but the story of the relationship between Rule and Bundy, and her growing awareness that he is a monster, is just as gripping as ever.

[schatzi_5 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Ann Rule, a struggling single mother writing stories for detective magazines, lands a book contract for the yet-unsolved "Ted" murders that are occurring in her town. In a twist that I'd call unbelievable and unrealistic in a novel, the "Ted" behind these murders is her friend, Ted Bundy. Rule discusses Ted's crimes, which culminate in a shocking murder spree in Florida. She also talks about her own life, and her feelings about Ted. You can see her opinion on Ted Bundy evolve as she writes numerous "final chapters" and updates in the book - one in 1986 (once Ted Bundy had been on Florida's death row for years), another in 1989 (after his execution), another in 2000, and a final one in 2008. Part memoir and part true crime book, Rule isn't the best writer I've read, but the book was very engrossing.

[nevans1972 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

The Stranger Beside Me had a huge influence on me when I first read it years ago. Ann Rule was my first true crime book that I read and started me on a true crime obsession. I have read almost all of Ann's books and they where all 4 to 5 star ratings in my opinion. Ann will be truly missed. RIP Ann Rule.

[Antoinette Maceri · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

I know that this is a great book because of the television series movie based on it with Mark Harmon which I saw once. I occasionally wonder why it is never shown on television or anywhere for that matter. Wow! It was so terrifying — but excellent, especially Harmon’s frightening performance. SO WHY THREE STARS WHEN I AM JUST BEGINNING THE BOOK? Because the absolutely sing songy tone of the narrator’s voice is TOTALLY INAPPROPRIATE TO A DEAD SERIOUS SCARY TALE LIKE THIS! It’s so SILLY! IT’s REALLY ALMOST NAUSEATING! Not sure if I can get through it, but I’ll try. My guess is that she thinks she sounds like “Ann Rule”. What she must imagine Rule sounds like…

[Jenn K · Rating: 2 out of 5 stars]

First Anne Rule book I've listened to. Unfortunately I wasn't a fan. Maybe because it was written in first person? I'll give a different book another shot. Hopefully that will be better.

[Brianna Kleiman · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Good read/listen! Definitely kept me entertained during my work day.

[Laura · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

So interesting and brilliantly written! I would highly recommend it!

[Elizabeth Meadows · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Very interesting! She covered the details without making it too graphic or sensationalizing it.

[Róża Boczkowska · Rating: 1 out of 5 stars]

This book is a story of the author's crush on the killer. It does not honor the victims at all. It excuses the killer's crimes. Through the author the master manipular and con Bundy tries to manipulate humanity yet again. Left a really bad taste in my mouth.

[Christine Gal · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Fascinating account of Ted Bundy and the author’s connection to him.

[Rita Mansour · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I’m one of Anne Rules biggest fan and have enjoyed every book of hers. This was particularly interesting because of her friendship with Ted Bundy . First hand insight into this monster who hid behind his good looks and charm. Could not stop listening. Ted Bundy should not Rest In Peace. Hell is too good for him

[Janey Robideau · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

What makes this book truly amazing are the added bits in later editions, where Ann Rule updates the tale. Amazing writing and storytelling about one of the most vile men of all time.

[kim stories · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Gripping and horrifying from start to finish. I feel wrung out after listening to it. Really worth listening to.

[greymowser · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

One scary individual.

[lisamaria_c · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

Ann Rule is the James Patterson of True Crime writers. In other words, prolific, ubiquitous, practically rules her genre--but essentially an empty writer of boiler plate. But this book, such as it is, is definitely a fascinating read for two reasons: one, Ted Bundy is among that rara avis, a serial killer, and a high-functioning sociopath who kept a mask of sanity so skin tight and smooth that Ann Rule, who knew him and volunteered beside him on a suicide hotline had not a clue he was the killer so many were looking for--and that she was writing about as a crime reporter. And there you have the other reason: she did know him. She did think of him as a friend. So the inherent fascination of content triumphs somewhat over the clumsy hack writing.

[pdebolt_1 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Although I read this book when it was first published, I am still haunted by it. Ann Rule is the standard by which true crime writing is measured, and she did a spectacular job of describing Ted Bundy, who touched her life. This is a fascinating account of this horrific, psycopathic killer and the people he knew who had no idea of the depths of his depravity.

[Vanessa Assumpção · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Muito bem escrito e detalhista. Me fez sentir assustada, indignada e bastante triste. Ann fez um trabalho excepcional!

[Annie · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Great book, it is terrifying and sad but a great book

[Sandy · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Thanks for sharing details of your very unique relationship with this murderer. What a personal story.

[Dolores Weiss · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

AnnRule is such a great author. This must have been especially hard for her since her own life was so entwined with Ted for years. I felt that she was totally honest. I was impressed with how she revealed how long she held on to believing it wasn’t really him. Then as she began to see how wrong she was she still felt loyal to Ted, still sent him Money And stamps. She held her honesty by telling him how her mind was changing. Then still send stamps and money Ann Rule was still human. Difficult story to tell but she did it so well.

[Julie Evans · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Well written and well read, clear and comprehensive, a serial killer I knew nothing about. Highly recommend

[bdank_2 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This is a required book for anyone who is a Ann Rule fan, wants to know how she became involved in writing in this area. Book deals with herdual relationship with Bundy, friend and reporter. The book demonstrates how a successful serial killer, a person who murders undetected for many years, must be an expert in humanpsychology, must be extraordinarily skilled in presentation of self, in manipulation of others.

[Matson Ruddell · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Different than any other serial killer account. I've read and studied serial killers for around twenty years and I found this to be quite different than any other book. Anne Rule showed Ted Bundy's human, seemly emotional side. I was surprised at how much emotion he was capable of. He seemed to have a low level of compassion that I didn't think Phychopaths were not capable of. I've been trying to put these guys into some kind of box and this book makes most of that seemingly impossible.