True Crime Rocket Science covers high-profile true crime, with videos posted daily dealing with real-time cases, as well as vintage, unsolved cases. What sets this true crime channel apart is the level of depth, detail, insight and effort that goes into researching these cases.
The author, who studied criminal law, has attended murder trials in situ in America, in Idaho and Texas, as well as in South Africa. The depth of this research and insight means a series may run into dozens, sometimes hundreds of meticulously curated episodes. No other true crime creator is as widely travelled, well-read or written as many books on very different cases as this one, and this is the “Rocket Science” behind the success of the channel.
“I try to cover these cases beyond gratuitous voyeurism. I try to find the pearl of wisdom, the lessons learned, and out of these cautionary tales about human destruction perhaps we can find something positive. If we can recognize patterns of dysfunction, we can choose better paths, ways to build and improve ourselves.”
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Nick van der Leek is a widely-published investigative photojournalist and one of the most prolific true crime authors in the world. His expertise spans a broad spectrum—from cold case investigations in the U.S., U.K., France, and South Africa, to analyses of disasters, doping scandals, and even Dutch art history. With a background in law, economics, and marketing, Nick’s career includes years of magazine features and exclusive interviews with global personalities like Lewis Pugh [the “Sir Edmund Hillary of swimming”], the late Ueli Steck [the “Swiss Machine”], Tyler Hamilton [former pro bike racer], Morgan Freeman, director Gavin Hood, American science writer Gary Taubes, Miss World 2009 and many others. His work has not only been adapted for television but also archived by respected institutions such as the Van Gogh Library and the University of Cape Town.
Book series
Book series
Book series
Described by one reviewer as “The Most Authentic Voice in True Crime,” True Crime Rocket Science is known for its credible, meticulous, boots-on-the-ground research and deep-dive analysis into high-profile true crime cases. With a sharp focus on criminal psychology, relational dynamics, victimology, and social context, each narrative is guided by bestselling author Nick van der Leek, who has written over 100 books on the subject. His approach to true crime is rigorous, insightful, and unflinching—earning him a loyal following among readers who value depth and authenticity.
Mary Spriggs
With his razor-sharp intelligence and unparalleled knowledge of the facts, van der Leek’s case analysis is at once fresh while immensely thorough. Masterful depiction of the ironies displayed by the Ramseys. Van der Leek reveals his deep insight into forensic psychology as well as the evolving ethics of a 21st century internet society. Brilliant!
Verified Purchaser
I thought I knew a great deal about the JonBenet Ramsey case; however, after reading this book and watching Nick’s YouTube channel, I have learned much more than I thought possible. Emphasizing critical thinking and synthesis, Nick could teach a college course in how and why such techniques are of paramount importance in this case, but also in life. All of the material he presents is sourced and discussed in an engaging manner. I highly recommend the book and his channel, True Crime Rocket Science.
@whenshovelswereshovels3068
This work of Nicks is so valuable to understanding the criminal mind and the human condition I’ve been recently going over all the Chris watts videos and bought some of his books on watts and truly feel like I am evolving to understand how people come to make extremely difficult or heinous decisions in life and how we can use these terrible situations as an opportunity to better understand the machinations of people.
@MissingRenoboy
I am always awed by Nick’s analysis, he makes everything and anything interesting. The way he deeply goes into a subject and explores is like nothing else
Marcus Haysom
You remain true to yourself, which within the current media landscape, is a huge accomplishment in itself. You have a loyal following and you’ve built a strong community who trust what you do implicitly. You’ve proven yourself a principled and intelligent true crime “commentator”, you should have complete faith in yourself and shouldn’t be derailed in your convictions by click bait channels. Keep up the good work Nick, your subscribers and members will remain at your side, because when it comes to true crime, no one comes close to your insight.
Suzanne Eisenhauer
You always do a superb analysis of any case you touch. In a world, where discernment is in short supply, you have that amazing insight and wisdom.
