Easter Sunday Massacre: A Prosecutor's Diary: the True Story of James Ruppert

I love to read detective novels by Patterson and courtroom drama by Grisham. I also enjoy well written true crime stories. This book combines all of these elements. The author has meticulously researched the events of this tragedy and interviewed key players involved. That alone was interesting to read, but what makes this book stand out even more is the faithfully transcribed journal of the lead prosecutor of the case. It’s a real voice of a person who was intimately involved in every facet of the case. His voice reflects the 1970’s attitudes and social mores. I was worried that the book might be gruesome to read, but it’s not. The murders are described in professional terms and the book focuses on the investigation and court case that followed the crime. One of my favorite things about the book was that it allowed me to know the victims through interviews with people who knew and loved them.

Although I know of no other written account of this horrific crime I can say that no one should even attempt one as this one is impossible to top. The Prosecuting Attorney's own words, recorded and then transcribed, do indeed read like a Mickey Spillane novel. The principal writer, Karen Holcomb, is a fine writer herself.

I have lived in Butler County for 70 years. Well written and objective. More detail given than was previously available to the public at that time. Ruppert was a puzzling person with many surprises. He should have gotten the death penalty.

I’m was a teenager when this happened. Just a shocking crime by a very peculiar man. A quick and interesting book.

I have extended family in Hamilton, Ohio and have heard of this case for many years, but this book puts you there in 1975! Excellent writing and explanation of the case and also included a layout of the small house. As a visual person, this brought everything to life for me. A must read if you enjoy history, true crime or courtroom drama!

A must-read for any true-crime junkie! A real page-turner that I couldn’t put down…I think I finished it in 3 days! Highly recommend!

One of if not the worst criminal act in my town that I am aware of. James Ruppert murdering 11 members of his own family, ages 2 to 65. Terrible. I remember when it happened. On Easter Sunday.

Going behind the scenes through the prosecutor’s eyes, made this book a real page turner. The format made it easy to read….couldnt put it down. I live in the town where this happened, so the people and places were very familiar. But reading what actually happened behind the public eye was extremely intriguing. Highly recommended!