The book "Dead Wake: The Last Crossing of the Lusitania" by Erik Larson delves into the infamous sinking of the Lusitania during World War I. The narrative interweaves the personal stories of the ship's passengers and crew with the broader context of the war, highlighting the intricate tensions between nations at that time. Larson's meticulous research paints a vivid picture of the final journey and the events leading to the tragic outcome.

Murder, as a recurring fascination, serves as a thematic element in this historical account. It reflects the darker aspects of humanity, particularly during wartime, where the stakes are high and lives are abruptly lost. Larson illustrates how this fascination with violent events, such as the Lusitania tragedy, reveals deeper truths about human nature and societal conflicts during a tumultuous period in history.