Skip Hollandsworth

Skip Hollandsworth is an award-winning journalist and executive editor at Texas Monthly magazine, where he has worked since 1989. His long-form crime reporting and narrative journalism have earned him multiple accolades, including a National Magazine Award. Hollandsworth gained wider recognition for his 2016 true-crime book "The Midnight Assassin: Panic, Scandal, and the Hunt for America's First Serial Killer," which chronicles America's first documented serial murders in 1880s Austin, Texas. He also wrote the screenplay for the 2011 film "Bernie," directed by Richard Linklater and starring Jack Black, based on his 1998 Texas Monthly article about a small-town mortician who murders a wealthy widow. His work frequently explores Texas crime stories, historical events, and cultural phenomena, with particular attention to detailed character studies and complex narratives. Hollandsworth's articles have been included in various "Best American Crime Writing" anthologies, and his investigative reporting has led to the reopening of several cold cases. Throughout his career at Texas Monthly, Hollandsworth has written definitive pieces on subjects ranging from football culture to unsolved murders, establishing himself as one of Texas's most prominent narrative journalists. His writing style combines meticulous research with compelling storytelling, particularly in true crime and historical narratives.

Readers praise Hollandsworth's detailed research and ability to weave historical facts into compelling narratives. His Texas Monthly articles receive consistent recognition for making complex crime stories accessible while maintaining journalistic integrity. What readers liked: - Deep historical research and context - Engaging narrative style that reads like fiction - Balanced treatment of sensitive subject matter - Clear presentation of complex criminal investigations What readers disliked: - Some found "The Midnight Assassin" repetitive in parts - Several readers noted excessive detail slowed the pacing - A few reviews mentioned wanting more definitive conclusions Ratings: - The Midnight Assassin: 3.7/5 on Goodreads (5,800+ ratings) - 4.2/5 on Amazon (430+ reviews) One reader noted: "Hollandsworth has a gift for bringing historical figures to life without sensationalizing tragic events." Another commented: "The research is impeccable but sometimes gets in the way of the story flow." Texas Monthly subscribers frequently cite his articles as highlights of the magazine, with particular praise for his crime reporting and character profiles.

The Midnight Assassin: Panic, Scandal, and the Hunt for America's First Serial Killer (2016) Chronicles the true story of a series of murders in 1880s Austin, Texas, where a killer targeted servant women in brutal attacks that terrorized the city.

Lies Came True (1991) Documents the case of Charles Stuart, who murdered his pregnant wife in Boston but initially convinced authorities it was a carjacking gone wrong.

The Day Treva Throneberry Disappeared (2002) Explores the bizarre story of a woman who posed as a teenager, enrolled in high school multiple times, and created multiple false identities across several states.

The Lost Boys (1998) Examines the disappearance of several young men in Houston during the 1970s, their connection to serial killer Dean Corll, and the aftermath that affected the community.

Out of Bounds (2002) Details the life and crimes of Fort Worth millionaire Cullen Davis, who was accused of murder but acquitted in a highly publicized trial.

Erik Larson Writes narrative non-fiction focusing on historical true crime and murder cases. His detailed research and storytelling approach mirrors Hollandsworth's treatment of Texas crime stories.

Jeff Guinn Chronicles historical figures and crimes from the American West with emphasis on Texas and surrounding regions. His work includes investigations of Charles Manson and Bonnie and Clyde.

Harold Schechter Specializes in serial killer true crime accounts and historical murder cases. His examination of killers' psychological profiles and societal context aligns with Hollandsworth's analytical approach.

Truman Capote Pioneered the non-fiction novel format with true crime reporting. His immersive investigation methods and focus on the psychological elements of crimes influenced modern true crime writing.

John Berendt Combines true crime with cultural exploration of Southern cities and communities. His narrative style weaves together murder cases with local history and character studies.