The Life of Mr. Richard Savage

‘The Life of Mr. Richard Savage’ is an incredibly interesting true crime book by Daniel Defoe. The book examines the case of the poet Richard Savage who murdered a man during a brawl in 1727. The salacious trial received great publicity at the time as wild accusations were made about both the criminal and the victim. Defoe provides invaluable insight into the crime and Savage’s attempt to receive a pardon from the Queen during his trial. This account of the murder stands out as Defoe delves deep into Savage’s fascinating childhood and troubled relationship with his adulterous mother that may have affected him in later years. ‘The Life of Mr. Richard Savage’ should be read by all true crime fans as it is a riveting account of one of the first famous true crime stories.