Fict - Compulsion by Meyer Levin

Compelling fictionalized account of a chilling real-life murder which occurred in Chicago in the 1920's.  2 extremely gifted college students from 2 of Chicago's wealthiest Jewish families forge an unusual bond based on latent sexual tension and a shared quest for knowledge and enlightenment. 

Obsessed with Neitzche's idea of a superhuman being not subject to men's laws, the boys plot an experimental and arbitrary killing - simply for the experience.  The narrative also focuses on the friends and family and how what is being called as the "crime of the century" affects each of them.

The progression of the initial bonding, the crime, and the courtroom drama form an easy flow, producing an engrossing study of twisted youth delusions and aspirations. 

Short Stories - Turtleface & Beyond

Turtleface & Beyond: Stories by Arthur Bradford is a quick and entertaining read. It's a great collection of stories that made laugh out loud several times - always a good sign. There were twists I didn't see coming. The main character throughout the stories seems to be down, but not out. He keeps moving along despite one setback after another. I'd recommend it.