- Why do you think author Jillian Lauren chose to open the book with her own fight (and near-death by strangulation) with a boyfriend?
- What is the allure of the cold case—for detectives, journalists, and true crime fanatics? How does Detective Mitzi Roberts describe it? How can cold cases compete for resources against active investigations?
- How does Jillian’s approach to telling Little’s story differ from other true crime accounts? Where is her focus, and how does that change our impressions of each crime?
- One of the most shocking facts about Sam Little’s crimes is how poorly hidden they were. Why, after so many arrests, did he continue to get released from jurisdictions all over the country?
- Despite knowing the risks, Jillian builds a relationship with Little over time. What is the most challenging aspect of that relationship for her? What motivates her to maintain it?
- Texas Ranger Jim Holland’s interview techniques are revered by his colleagues, but also described in the following way, “Makes you fucking sure you did something wrong.” Why is the discomfort of the interviewee, and the creation of a feeling of guilt, one of the measures of interview success?
- What was Jean’s motivation for teaming up with Little until her eventual death? Do you agree with Jillian that Jean was fully aware of Little’s murders?
- Little tries to convince Jillian that all crimes are equal, from stealing a cookie to murder, because they are all equally sinful in the eyes of his religion. Do you agree with his argument?
- Sam Little perished in prison, where his sentence reflected only a few of the many murders he committed. Do you think justice was served?