True Crime With Caledonian Kitty : personal

Showing posts with label personal. Show all posts

What's Been Going On?

(Join me on Instagram as well as my other socials, check out my Linktree page)

Hey everyone, I know you've probably clicked on my blog expecting to see what my latest post is about, well, you were probably aware that it was my birthday a few weeks ago. I originally planned to take just a little bit of time to enjoy my birthday and come back all refreshed, however...life got in the way as it often does and I ended up taking a break for a little bit longer than I wanted to. I just wanted to put a note on here to let you know that I will be posting again next weekend and I will make up for my absence. I have been really busy in my personal life, something unexpected happened and I had to work really hard to sort it all out, I didn't have time to sit down, study and to be honest, I couldn't focus.

Now I am ready to get stuck into another case and my usual routine will be back to normal as of next week! I also want to say a HUGE thank you for 1,704,303 views on this blog....that is INCREDIBLE!!! You don't know how much it means to me.

So, mark your calendars cause in the words of the legendary Arnie (as the Terminator).....I'll be back (next week lol)

PS: In the meantime, I will be on all of my Socials as usual. If you would like to help support my work, please make a donation via my PayPal

Thank you x

The Dark & Creepy Side of Vinted

It's been a while since I have written a more personal post where I share my thoughts and views on a particular topic (true crime related) but in this post the focus is on the popular pre-loved website 'Vinted'.

Like millions of people in the UK, I have an account on there where I sell second hand items, outfits that I no longer wear as well as things that I might have bought by mistake that still have the tags on. Vinted is an extra way to make money and the majority of it's users are younger and older women.

A few years ago, Vinted wasn't as popular as it is now but with the cost of living crisis and everything being so expensive, people are looking to both save money and make money and that's where Vinted comes in. So, it all sounds like a positive thing right? Well, it should be and the majority of the time it is positive. You do come across the odd grumpy customer or purchase from a seller who ends up sending you a dirty or faulty item but like all things in life, it has it's good sides and bad. You get honest people on there and people out to scam, you just have to be as careful as you can.

When I first opened an account with Vinted, I remember watching a shocking documentary about a lady who had gone undercover and it was revealed that women were routinely harassed on the vinted platform by creepy perverts. These men would freely open Vinted accounts and target women and young girls as well as screenshotting their pictures and putting them on a site called 'Vinted Sluts'. These perverts would rate women & young girls out of 10 and describe what they wanted to do sexually to them in graphic, violent terms. This site was supposed to have been closed down but as we know with incels and their like, they just find other ways to communicate or simply open other websites.

When I first opened an account on Vinted it took just two days before I ended up flooded with perverts in my messages. I never promoted having a Vinted page but somehow these guys pounced on me within two days of me being on there, which also leads me to believe that these horrible sites and forums (where incels pass information and pictures to each other) are still online. Literally all in one night I had creep after creep harassing me...where were they all coming from? I was offered money to send them my used underwear, one also wanted me to pee on some underwear and send it to him.

I like shopping for lingerie and sometimes when I have a delivery of items I take a second look and think ''Nah, I don't think these will fit me or I'm not really a fan of this colour, it looked different on the site etc'', so I will sell the lingerie which has never been worn and has the tags and hygiene safety stickers still on.

I get requests (yes, creeps still jump into my messages on Vinted) if I post a lingerie set or a cropped top with requests to wear them and if I wear the thong (especially to the gym) they will pay me extra. I've had men pretending to be trans-women who are looking for style advice from me. I try to be polite and offer advice about clothes and the next minute they're telling me that they want me to dress them in women's underwear and clothes and humiliate them.

With Vinted practically crawling with perverts you'd probably ask me why I still have an account on there, well it's because it is an easy, fun way to make some extra money on unwanted items and why should I leave? The thing that also scares me is the younger girls on there who are being creeped on, it scares me to think that they most probably have been receiving the same disgusting messages that I have.

A couple of weeks ago I had this strange guy pop up in my messages telling me I was hot, I just thought to myself ''Here we go again, just ignore it and go about the day''. The next thing I know, this creep was following me on all of my social media platforms, on Instagram he was liking all of my pictures and was becoming a real pest. I ignored him and carried on with my work and then I got a notification from this guy on Vinted, he'd sent me a message telling me that he took it back that I was hot, he then proceeded to make fun of the fact that I'm a writer and that I had something wrong with me, he said I loved serial killers (anyone who is a follower of mine, a reader or knows me personally knows that is not true) and was being negative. I was really uncomfortable and made it clear that I didn't want him to message me, he carried on and then started talking about how I looked, telling me basically that I looked old. It was really dark and horrible to be honest and quite upsetting. I just wanted him to go away.

I blocked and reported him but he's still got an account on there, he isn't a buyer, or a seller, he has no reviews. He has an account on Vinted purely to harass women and girls.

I used to screenshot all of the creepy messages from Vinted on my phone and it got to the point that it was taking up too much space and to be honest, I didn't like seeing these things every time I'd go into my photo files. I deleted them all but I found one on my phone that I forgot to delete. There's no way to track these creeps anyway and nothing gets done about it. They use a variety of email addresses, fake names, fake dates of birth and stolen profile pictures to ensure they remain anonymous.

Some of these creeps just get off on trying to tear a woman down or they just love to try and make conversation with you in your messages by pretending they are interested in what you're selling. They pretend to be a customer at first and then they change and turn pervy, unbeknown to you, they've been getting their rocks off just because you responded to their 'item enquiry'.

Vinted has totally blown up now and I think it's even more difficult to avoid the creeps and freaks, there's just too many of them and when you report them, they just pop up again with another account. There was a guy who harassed me all weekend last year and every time I blocked his Vinted accounts, he popped up within seconds with another one. These creeps have multiple accounts.

Now, it's not just the creeps that are an issue, there are some women on Vinted that are basically selling used panties and socks and are only too happy to accommodate these guys for the sake of a fiver or a tenner. These creeps are not multi-millionaires by the way, they offer you at the very most, £10 for used underwear on Vinted and I see these creeps sometimes purchasing from these women. I made the mistake when I first opened an account on Vinted, I saw a bundle of thongs that a woman had listed, she described them as new with tags but included IYKYK (If You Know You Know) in the description. Me, being oblivious contacted her about a possible bundle deal and she refused point blank to sell them to me. It turned out that the underwear had been worn and was only to be sold to these men.

I was flabbergasted that all this seedy stuff was going on but it's the world we live in (you should see the monstrosities that I see on X/Twitter every day that some creep who's following me has reposted). I did what I always do....I researched and ended up down a seedy, dirty path. So not only do you have the creeps and perverts, the freaks and the scammers, you have women who sell dirty underwear and socks etc to these guys for a few pounds. I ended up on a forum that gave advice on how to sell dirty underwear to strangers, they wrap their used panties in foil to keep the 'discharge' (I'm really sorry to be graphic but that's their words) fresh otherwise it goes stale and mouldy. Can you believe it? So who can we blame for all of this when there's quite obviously a market for dirty knickers.

I like to think of myself as open-minded but I'm sorry, I can't understand men who buy used panties from a stranger on the internet, they even purchase used panties off of women they have never seen, it could be anybody with any type of disease. It makes you feel sick!

I've been wanting to write this post for a while but I didn't think it would be received well or some people may take offence and see it as unprofessional but I always do and say what I like and some of this stuff just makes me nauseous.

So, what would my advice be if you're on Vinted especially if you are a woman who has no interest in flogging her dirty knickers for a fiver to any old Harry, Bob and Jim. Here's some tips:

- Don't use your real address with deliveries, this info is often printed on postage labels. If you purchased from a seller, have your parcel sent to your nearest Newsagent/Supermarket.

- Try not to use any pictures of yourself and don't share personal information.

- If a creep pops up in your messages, don't read! First sign that it's a creep is the info you will see in the notification, if there are 0 reviews and 0 followers, that's usually a sign. Some creeps do have a handful of reviews from women they've bought dirty knickers from but you will be able to tell the difference.

- A lot of these perverts and dirty underwear sellers operate on Telegram so you will usually see on their profile things such as their telegram username as well as IYKYK.

- Report anyone who is harassing you by reporting and blocking, you may have to do this several times if the creep has a bunch of accounts they will get fed up eventually, trust me.

- Screenshot if you want to keep evidence if someone is continuing to harass you as this may aid any investigation in tracking this individual down.

Just be aware on there, trust your instincts and if you need someone to chat to about this, I am always available for advice, you can email me at jocaledoniankitty@gmail.com all comments and conversations will be kept completely confidential.

I know this post is a little bit different to what I usually post on here although I know a lot of you like my personal posts, I just wanted to talk about this, maybe someone else has gone through the same thing or is currently being harassed? Maybe there'w men who've been harassed by women on Vinted? We don't know because nobody is talking about it. Hopefully I have set the ball rolling for open discussion on how to make Vinted safer.

If you've made it to this part in the post, I really appreciate it. I will be back to covering more serial killer cases and true crime in my next posts. In the meantime, I hope to see you as usual on my Socials

Remember, always trust your instincts and stay safe! See you in the next post x

Quick True Crime Chit-Chat With Jo • Is It Really Bad In The UK?, What's In Store For 2025? Am I moving to America? • Your Questions Answered & More.....

(Blog author. Jo Donnelly otherwise known as Caledonian Kitty. For all links see: Linktree)

So, before I put my pens and highlighters back into my black Killstar pencil case (yes, I have one of those) and put the lid down on the laptop for the Christmas break. I offered you all a chance to send me some questions you may have. I wasn't expecting to get so many but I've narrowed it down to 10. Thank you for all of your questions and the ones that don't feature here will still be answered and responded to in your message and email inboxes.

Get cosy and let's get to it....

1) I can't wait for your book, will it be out next year?

I'm not going to say 100% because I am still working on it and I'm a bit of a perfectionist so right now I am hoping but watch this space....

2) Are things really as bad in the UK as seen on social media?

Yes, the UK is a mess and it's quite scary what is going on right now. It seems that you can't do a thing without some sort of consequence. A lot of beautiful places are getting destroyed and a lot of people in our country are being neglected, people who have been here all their lives and payed taxes are suffering. It's appalling what's going on.

3) What do you think of people being jailed for taking part in protests in the UK?

It depends what their actions were, I don't condone violence. I saw footage of police vans being set on fire, items being thrown, I don't condone that. But, just standing there and in a mature and well spoken manner, stating your thoughts in a way that is not racist but is about your care for the safety of your children and yourself, that is not wrong and people should not be punished for it. Some people forget that we have put up with a lot in this country, we've endured cover-ups and seen innocent people harmed and no justice brought but the perpetrators rewarded. What we saw with these riots was people being sick and tired but some of them expressed themselves in the wrong way. Support should have been given as well as counselling and anger management to the people involved, their concerns listened to, but instead we see hard-core criminals released early from prison and people who protested thrown behind bars. Now, I just want to be clear that if you commit violence you should pay the price but just standing there in the crowd or shouting a few words, does not warrant a prison sentence in my opinion. I saw that one of the men jailed was a grandfather in his 60s who had no criminal record and suffered from mental health issues and sadly took his own life. There was another man who was grieving over the death of his best friend who'd died just weeks before and he was put in prison. There was more to this than was taken into consideration.

4) Are you really moving to America?

Yes, it's been a dream of mine for a long time and I will still be back to visit, especially Scotland.

5) What was the last true crime documentary that you watched?

I actually watched Waco: American Apocalypse (again) on Netflix.

6) Which true crime book is your favourite?

I don't have a particular favourite but one of the books that I consider essential in my Serial killer research is The Encyclopedia of Serial Killers by Michael Newton. I just need there to be an updated version.

7) I want to make a few case requests, can I email you?

Yes, you can email me anytime at jocaledoniankitty@gmail.com

8) Will you be bringing back your merch?

Yes! my merch will be coming back in 2025, watch this space!!

9) What do you hope for 2025?

I like to hold my cards close to my chest, I'm all about manifesting things. I do wish great things for my readers though.

10) What's your favourite thing to drink on Christmas Day?

Bucks Fizz, I just love it!

Thanks again for these questions, I thought they were really good and have left me feeling in more of a positive mood than I was before. I hope you enjoyed reading my answers.

So here's to 2025, I hope you have a fabulous Christmas and New Year. I will be back to share more posts in 2025. Thank you as always for your support x

My Top 5 Most Popular True Crime Cases For 2024 (And My Honest Thoughts)

(Blog author: Jo Donnelly aka Caledonian Kitty. All my links can be found on Linktree)

Well, can you believe that it's almost the end of 2024? As you know, I've kept things busy here on True Crime With Caledonian Kitty and it's good to look back over this year and see which posts have been more popular than others.

Before I list my most popular posts below I would just like to say THANK YOU again for all of the support this year, it is very much appreciated and always will be. So let's get into it.....

1) The Mysterious Death of Alexa Kenin

This post still continues to grow and grow years later! The sad and tragic story of Actress Alexa Kenin's death is a story that still affects people to this day. I still see comments and emails from people who grew up watching her and whenever 'Pretty in Pink' is on or there's an anniversary of the movie being released, fans pop back up again to share their memories of Alexa. I'm extremely grateful for the interest in this post and that Alexa's legacy continues to go on.

2) The Real Story Behind 'Stay The Night' (The Jimmie Sue Finger Story)

Who'd have thought that a TV movie that I had watched with my mother years ago would lead to me years later, writing about the very story that the film was based on. The portrayal of Jimmie Sue Finger by the incredible Barbara Hershey is a favourite of all of her performances over the years and everyone wants to know the real story behind it. For years it was very difficult to get a copy of the movie but someone uploaded it to Youtube a few years ago and since then, my coverage of the story has gone crazy.

3) Toxic Relationship: The Tracie Andrews Story

Back in 2019, I wrote this four part series about this shocking case and the sad anniversary of Lee's murder which has just been (1st of December) and as is usually the situation, relatives or a documentary may have been posting about the case elsewhere leading to people looking up the case and finding my articles. I remember Lee's daughter contacting me about the posts and at first I was worried that I had caused offence and offered to remove them but she was very positive about it, thanking me for helping keep the story alive and letting people remember about what happened to her father. The abuse that Lee suffered in this relationship was hell and domestic abuse towards men was something that wasn't talked about back in those days. Today we are becoming a bit more open minded and giving these horrible issues that attention that they should have. The truth is, that Tracie didn't just fly off the handle one random night, she had been putting this guy through hell for a very long time. There's people who will say that she's served her time etc but can someone really change that much? Let me know your thoughts.

4) The Acid Bath Murderer: John George Haigh

A case that still very much shocks anyone who stumbles across it. It is the stuff of nightmares, deceased bodies being dissolved in acid, very horrific and gruesome! Books have been written and TV series made and it's a wonder why this has popped up at number 4 but people seem to be searching for information about John George Haigh again.

5) The Carol Maltesi Case

And finally, the 5th of the most popular cases is the shocking murder of Only Fans model Carol Maltesi, otherwise known as Charlotte Angie. We are seeing a lot of horrific stories where dreadful things have happened to Only Fans content creators. It's a scary situation if obsessed fans and stalkers manage to track you down. I've written a few cases on this blog about people who have been murdered by crazed stalkers. The details in this post were harrowing and Carol had to be identified by her tattoos, that's how horrendous it was.

So, there you have it! I hope that everything that I have shared with you here this year has been of some value and information to you. I always aim for my readers to come away from my posts feeling like they've learned something about a case that they never knew before.

I appreciate all of the support and I'm looking forward to 2025 to bring you more content so I hope you will join me for that.

Merry Christmas (if you celebrate the holidays) and Happy New Year for 2025.

Take care and I'll see you in the next post x

5 of The Most Shocking & Disturbing Cases That I Have Covered So Far | True Crime With @CaledonianKitty

(Collage photo credits: Top left: Donald Smith: people. Middle left: Gertrude Baniszewski: murderpedia. Bottom left: Josef Mengele: wikipedia. Top right: John Couey: crimemuseum. Bottom right: Michael Slager: independent)

I've been writing about true crime for quite a while now (since 2019 to be exact) and every case that I have covered has left a mark on me. I've been asked many times what cases have disturbed me the most and it's really hard to pick because each story has been a heartbreaking journey to research, innocent people losing their lives in the most horrendous ways. In some cases we have seen justice served and in other cases we have seen perpetrators literally getting away with murder.

In this post I have chosen just five disturbing cases I have covered here on this blog. Of course, if you take a stroll through my archives you can see that there are hundreds of cases that are the stuff of nightmares so it's pretty hard to narrow it down. The cases included below are the ones that just jumped out to me and you may remember them, you may not. You may wish to revisit the cases or you may be new to them. Whatever the situation, I hope that you find them informative but please keep in mind that the details included in these posts are pretty tough to take, hence why I don't even have to look at the posts to re-fresh my memory - some things just stay with you, even when you don't want them to.

Next week I will be starting a new series on my blog so I hope you will join me for that. As always, please feel free to comment below or contact me via email (jocaledoniankitty@gmail.com) with any of your thoughts, comments or case requests.

- Beyond Evil: The Murder of Jessica Lunsford

- The Horrific Murder & Torture of Sylvia Likens (Four Part Series)

- The Abduction & Murder of Cherish Perrywinkle

- Dr Josef Mengele: The Angel of Death (Two Part Series)

- The Evil That Some Men Do: The Judy Malinowski Story

I always think about each of the victims in these cases and I still receive emails from time to time from people who've just come across my blog or knew the victims personally. I care about the cases I cover and hope that people will see beyond what happened to these innocent angels and remember who they were when they were alive and the love that they left behind with family, friends and complete strangers like you and I. RIP to all and continued prayers for the survivors and their families.

I hope you will join me next week for my new series, remember to take care of yourself and I hope you'll join me next time. In the meantime I hope to see you for a chat on my socials.

73 Questions Answered By Jo (Vogue - True Crime Style: 2024) | Get To Know Caledonian Kitty

(Yours truly - with Freddie's watchful eye in the background! Find me on all of my socials: Linktree)

On this blog I spend a lot of time writing about the dark side of life, the disturbing things that go on in our world and have gone on in the world. Sometimes it's good to take a step back and look at the good things in life and to take in some of the fresh air. Yes, there is a lot of evil in the world, we see it every day but there's also a lot of good in the world too. In the past I have had a lot of positive feedback and messages about my Q&A posts and since I have spent the last seven weeks talking about Serial Killers, I thought you might like to see something a little bit different for a change. I thought it was time for an updated version of my Vogue (true crime style) 73 questions post.

Usually I would ask readers for any questions they would like to put forward but this was a random idea that just came to me on Friday night as I sat drinking my shortbread tea (Marks & Spencer do an amazing tea called 'Shortbread Tea' - it's amazing...you need it in your life, trust me on this). I'm currently in the middle of planning my next series for this blog and I thought that whilst I'm here, cup of tea to the side of me, laptop on my...um lap (it's actually balancing on a cushion), I thought I would just shoot the breeze with you if you don't mind?

So if you have time on your hands and there's nothing on the TV have a browse at my ramblings below and I hope you enjoy this post (don't worry I will be back to writing about doom and gloom soon enough but for now let's add a bit of lightness to things...I love you all by the way)

So here goes....

Q1) What's your favourite time of day?

Probably in the morning when you have that first cup of coffee. There's nothing like it! I love a quiet, easy-going morning to enjoy that first cup. I'm not a morning person so I like a bit of time to myself to enjoy my first coffee of the day.

Q2) What's your biggest weakness?

Not admitting at times that I need to take a break. I can push myself too hard at times when I should be resting and taking everything in my stride.

Q3) What's your biggest strength?

My self motivation! Nobody has ever had to tell me to do anything, I already do it. I take it upon myself to do things and I have done that since as I was child.

Q4) What's the biggest learning experience you've had?

I've had many experiences in my life where I have learned how strong I actually am but I have to say it was watching my grandmother for years. She battled cancer for a long time and you would never have known it by looking at her. She was an old-school Glaswegian (native of Glasgow, Scotland) and every day she would wake up, go out and do things, attend hospital appointments on her own. She was a very independent and strong woman and I treasure the memories of her every day.

Q5) What's your idea of a perfect date?

Chinese takeaway or pizza on the sofa with a stack of horror movies to watch.

Q6) What's one vice you wish you could give up?

The addiction to caffeine but millions of people have that same addiction lol and in this day and age you're always bloody exhausted and need the extra boost. I've tried orange juice and ginger shots but they just don't cut the mustard!

Q7) What's a cause that's important to you?

Well I always live in hope that a cure for cancer will be found. I also think that's it's important to have more focus on the victims of crime instead of glamorizing killers. We seem to be in a place at the moment where murderers (if they happen to be good looking) are idolized as if they are film stars. Of course we have had this situation since the days of Ted Bundy's show trials but still, it's so disrespectful to the victims, the survivors and their families.

Q8) What's the best compliment you've ever received?

I love it when people tell me that I am one of their favourite writers.

Q9) Sweet or savory?

Both! This question has just made me think of Chinese takeaway. I love to order vegetarian spring rolls with sweet n sour sauce.

Q10) What song can you listen to on repeat?

Anything by Bryan Ferry / Roxy Music and this is a fact because I hear their music every day. I listen to them in the shower or bubblebath, it's part of my routine lol.

Q11) When do you feel the most inspired?

Knowing me, probably about 3 am when I'm supposed to be asleep!

Q12) What makes you smile the most?

Lots of things in my life, I have a lot to be grateful for. I count my blessings.

Q13) What's one thing people don't know about you?

I make my own homemade soup! It's funny because my grandmother made her own signature soup then my Dad made his in which he added chunks of potatoes. I have my own spin on both and I serve it with warm, crusty buttered bread....it's divine! I'm such a fabulous chef and anyone who's ever tried my soup loves it.

Q14) Heels, flats or sneakers?

Always heels!!!!

Q15) Vintage or new?

Vintage!!

Q16) What are three things you can't live without?

Makeup, perfume and Dino's pickles!

Q17) Window or aisle seat?

Window, so I can put my headphones on and pretend I am in a music video lol.

Q18) What's your current TV character obsession?

It will always be Columbo!

Q19) Leather or lace?

Always lace!

Q20) What's the most adventurous thing you've ever done?

Probably loads of stuff but one thing comes to mind.....being dragged onto the Pepsi Max rollercoaster in Blackpool, England! The fact that I was even on that thing still shocks me (I had my eyes closed the whole time and hung on for dear life).

Q21) How would you define yourself in 3 words?

Undefinable, Underestimated and Eccentric!

Q22) What's your current favourite piece of clothing that you own?

Either my Versace or Armani skinny tees.

Q23) What's inspiring you in life right now?

I've always been heavily into aromatherapy oils and crystals. I've been keeping a lot of Rose Quartz around me lately and it's making me feel more relaxed with positive energy.

Q24) What's the best piece of advice you've received?

To never give up and consistency is key!

Q25) What's your pet peeve?

People who judge me for my writing. I blocked a guy yesterday on X because he said ''You're actually a nice person for someone who's obsessed with Serial Killers''. Anyone who is a regular reader or knows me personally, knows I and not a fan of serial killers and that ridiculous statement just dismisses me as just some sort of crazy fan girl instead of a person who is working so hard on their dream to be a published writer.

Q26) Diamonds or pearls?

As Marilyn once sang....''Diamonds are a girl's best friend''.

Q27) What's something you notice about someone when you first meet them?

Teeth, nails or style.

Q28) What's your biggest regret?

I think regrets are good because they teach you a lesson but I would love to have seen George Michael live in concert.

Q29) What's heavily played on your playlist right now?

Sabrina Carpenter's 'Espresso'. I have such a girly crush on her right now.

Q30) What's your favourite board game?

Atmosphere or Connect 4

Q31) What's your guilty pleasure?

Watching 90's WWE

Q32) What book did you most recently finish?

I think it was Britney Spears's autobiography. I usually don't have time to focus on just one book as I tend to use various ones for research.

Q33) How do you start your day?

Wake up, check my phone, answer messages, make coffee and get my glam on.

Q34) What's your favourite holiday?

Christmas.

Q35) If you could raid one woman't closet, who would it be?

Sabrina Carpenter.

Q36) If you could switch lives with one person for a day, who would it be?

Mariah Carey

Q37) What's one thing you've always wanted to try but been too scared to?

Well I keep going back and forth about getting my belly-button pierced (I've seen and heard such horror stories)

Q38) What's one thing you wish you knew at 19?

How actually strong I was and that I had everything I needed (even a that age) to succeed.

Q39) Besides your phone or wallet, what are a couple of must-have handbag items?

For me.....nail glue and eyelash glue lol!

Q40) If you were not a writer what would you be doing?

Makeup artistry.

Q41) What's something you can't do?

Save money and anything to do with mathematics.

Q42) Where was the best vacation you've ever taken?

Sounds soppy but I just love visiting back home in Scotland.

Q43) What's one city you've always dreamed of going to?

Ever since I was a child it has been Rome.

Q44) What's something you always travel with?

Makeup bag and perfume.

Q45) Favourite food?

Right now, vegetarian sushi or Focaccia bread.

Q46) Favourite dessert?

Chocolate gateaux

Q47) Favourite snack?

Cheese and marmite oatcakes or Dino's pickles.

Q48) What's a movie that made you cry?

The Notebook

Q49) What's your favourite movie of the last five years?

Late Night With The Devil

Q50) What's the one talent you wish you had?

To be able to sing

Q51) What's your favourite exercise?

I love my cross-trainer, it works every part of the body and keeps me toned.

Q52) Who's your favourite band?

I have many but I have a special love for Depeche Mode.

Q53) What's your favourite fast food order?

Maccie D's fries (if I'm on my period I'll ask for two portions), McPlant burger and either a donut or McFlurry. I tend to have my own sugar-free drinks and ketchup at home.

Q54) What's something you don't want to be doing in 10 years?

Struggling financially

Q55) What's the cutest thing on earth?

A baby's laughter

Q56) What's the best thing that has happened this year?

Ask me again in December lol.

Q57) What's your favourite cocktail?

Orgasm or Sex on The Beach

Q58) Which movie makes you laugh the hardest?

Office Space or Step Brothers.

Q59) What do you usually eat for dinner?

Whatever I fancy on any given day. I like a little bit of everything - vegetarian of course!

Q60) What do you usually eat for lunch?

A cheese and Quorn ham sandwich with Dino's pickles!

Q61) What do you usually eat for breakfast?

Special K oats and honey cereal with a huge mug of coffee.

Q62) What's your favourite thing in the world?

Animals

Q63) What's your favourite colour?

Pink or black

Q64) What colour do you wear the most?

Pink, black, burgundy or red

Q65) What are three words to describe living in England?

Expensive, busy and beautiful (scenery)

Q66) Do you like surprises?

Nice ones, yes!

Q67) What's one thing you had to learn the hard way?

That some people may not have your best intentions at heart

Q68) What's something you're tired of?

Crazy people going around chucking oil and paint over famous paintings and landmarks

Q69) What cheers you up when your sad?

Happy memories, a bubblebath or retail therapy.

Q70) What's a trend you would like to see vanish forever?

Turkey teeth, BBLs and duck lips!

Q71) What did you want to do with your life at age 12?

I wanted to be an actress in Eastenders.

Q72) How long have you been writing about true crime?

Since 2019

Q73) What true crime documentary would you recommend to someone?

Check out a documentary called 'Talhotblond'. That will blow your socks off!!!

Well, there you have it, 73 questions answered and my left hand is starting to fall off! I hope you found this post an interesting read and feel like you know me that little bit more. Sometimes it's good to get a bigger picture of the person behind the writing and I appreciate you making it this far.

I hope you will join me in my next post on this blog where I will be starting my new series. As to what that's going to be? I'm not quite sure but rest assured I will put my all into it as always.

See you next time x...

73 Questions With Caledonian Kitty | Vogue (Parody) - True Crime Edition

As you know, I do like to change things up a bit on my true crime blog and cover various cases but I also like doing the Q&A posts too. I'd seen a few of these Vogue parody posts but nobody has ever done a true crime style one, so I thought I would have some fun and give it a go. I hope you enjoy...

Q1) What are you most excited about in life right now?

To be honest and maybe sound a bit personal here, I am still over the moon about getting my results back from my Cervical Screening for cancer & the HPV virus. As you may know, here in the UK, 1 in 3 women have not been attending their Cervical Screening appointments (for various reasons, through fear, not being able to get an appointment etc) and I was one of those women. I buried my head in the sand and put off appointments. It wasn't the smear test that bothered me, it was the 3 weeks wait for the results. I was worried sick but it was a huge relief when I got the all clear for cancerous cells. Pleaseeee go for your Cervical Screenings, if you are a woman due to go for yours and have been putting it off, it could save your life. I'm also excited because it's my birthday next month.

Q2) What are you reading right now?

Well, if I'm not reading books for research, I'm currently reading 'Unnatural Causes' (The Life & Many Deaths of Britain's Top Forensic Pathologist) by Dr Richard Shepherd. I also have his second book which I'm hoping to read after this one.

Q3) What is the song that you're currently obsessed with?

OMG! 'Ghosts Again' by Depeche Mode.

Q4) If you were not writing about true crime, how would you be spending your time?

Dancing, working out, watching movies.

Q5) What is something you would still love to learn?

Pole dancing & burlesque, which I am taking classes for soon. I've been dancing since I was a child but never in those styles professionally, just for fun.

Q6) What is the best film ever made?

Either Manhunter (1986) or The Silence of The Lambs.

Q7) Who's the best criminologist that has ever lived?

There's so many I admire but we'll go with Prof David Wilson.

Q8) What are your favourite flowers on earth?

Tulips, roses or tiger lillies

Q9) Do you prefer to read about true crime stories or watch true crime documentaries?

I prefer to read books

Q10) Kindle or paperback?

Paperback

Q11) Silver or gold?

Both

Q12) Heels or flats?

Always heels!

Q13) What excites you most about being a true crime writer?

I don't know, I feel that we in the true crime community help bring more awareness to cases which may have been forgotten about

Q14) What's your favourite aspect of your job(s)?

Well I have two jobs, one that I do by day and the other which is my content. I like that in both roles I'm pretty much my own boss.

Q15) What's the hardest thing about your job(s)?

The long hours that are involved, sometimes I don't go to bed until 5am.

Q16) What is the most overused word in the true crime community right now?

Podcast

Q17) What's a fashion rule that you completely disagree with?

That people with red hair can't wear red clothes.

Q18) Do you research, write and promote your true crime blog yourself?

Yes, I do every bit by myself and I'm quite proud of that, to have built something from scratch.

Q19) Is it true you are vegetarian?

Yes

Q20) Is it true that you are a fitness fan?

Yes, I try to workout every day

Q21) What is a movie that everyone should be watching right now?

Trying to think....Watch Sinister!

Q22) What TV show have you recently been hooked on?

I love having a little binge session on 90s X-Files episodes. I've seem them all but every now and then I like to delve into them again.

Q23) If you could have coffee with anyone on the planet, who would it be?

Jamie Lee Curtis

Q24) If you could have dinner with anyone on the planet, who would it be?

Depeche Mode

Q25) What's one item that every woman should have in her wardrobe?

Black mini skirt

Q26) What is your greatest achievement?

Probably leaving school with no qualifications, moving to England, going to college then Uni & becoming a PR Executive as well as having my true crime blog. I did this whilst having learning difficulties with Maths and Dyslexia. I'm proof you can come from a council estate with no money, no qualifications and that you can work yourself up.

Q27) How would you describe your personal style?

Princess meets Vamp!

Q28) What's the most important thing to have happened in the true crime community?

A lot of cold cases from decades ago have been re-opened and a lot of them have been solved. It's amazing what writers, podcasters and youtubers have helped achieve to help finally bring justice to families.

Q29) Which is a fashion trend that you wish would never return?

Dungarees! I still see people wearing them though.

Q30) Do you think that one day we are going to be reading your autobiography?

I have thought about writing a memoir about my childhood in my hometown but I'd have to be careful cause everyone would be trying to sue me lol

Q31) If you ruled the world, what would you make the law?

Free healthcare and dentistry for all.

Q32) Where do you hope to see the world in 5 years from now?

Better than it is now but sadly, I think it's getting worse

Q33) What's your favourite true crime documentary series?

I love the Born To Kill series

Q34) Who inspired you to write about true crime?

Reg McKay

Q35) Of all the cases you have written about, is there one that still gets to you?

There's so many that have touched me deeply and that is why I have written about them. To name some, off of the top of my head:

- Beyond Evil | The Murder of Jessica Lunsford

- The Horrific Murder of Sylvia Likens

- The Dunblane Massacre

- The Evil That Some Men Do | The Judy Malinowski Story

- The Limbs In The Loch Killer

- The Murder of Suzanne Rossetti

Q36) What is one of your favourite memories from childhood?

Watching cartoons, eating cheese on toast at my Dad's house. He would let me sleep on the sofa and I thought that was awesome, having the TV to myself.

Q37) What's the best advice that anyone has ever given you?

Whatever you give out, comes back to you, meaning, be kind, be nice, be positive to those around you.

Q38) What's the best gift you've ever received?

I treasure everything I have so I can't pick just one thing.

Q39) What's the best food in the world?

Italian food

Q40) What's the best thing about living in England?

I think there's more opportunities here, Part of the reason I moved here was so that I could go to college, Uni & have more chance at a decent job. It's also great for concerts and easier to get to London.

Q41) What's your favourite country to visit and why?

Scotland! I've yet to visit Italy, which is my dream. Scotland, for obvious reasons but really, the scenery is so beautiful and really like a watercolour painting. It just takes your breath away to be stood there in the middle of all of this beauty, the hills, the trees, the landscape, the fresh air, there's nothing like it.

Q42) What's your favourite thing that English people say?

I like cockney accents, especially when they swear and say 'Fackin hell' or 'Darlin'.

Q43) What's your favourite Scottish word or phrase?

''Whit's fur ye will no go past ye'' (meaning, if something is meant to happen in your life, it will)

Q44) What's a Scottish word you wish other countries would pronounce properly?

Edinburgh. They pronounce it as Edin-burg! It's not an issue though

Q45) What makes your blog unique?

Me! And the fact that I write like I'm having a conversation.

Q46) Which blog post are you most proud of?

I'm proud of all of my posts. You can find them all here: Archives

Q47) If you were a # what would you be?

Just simply #CaledonianKitty

Q48) Who is your favourite true crime writer?

Reg Mckay, Ann Rule, Prof David Wilson & Christopher Berry-Dee

Q49) How has the true crime community changed since you first started your blog?

I feel that everyone and their mother now has a podcast! I see a lot of people copying each other and stealing each others work. I see people who work hard who don't get the recognition they deserve. Because true crime seems to be popular now, there's a lot of people who are just jumping on the bandwagon to make money.

Q50) What can we expect from your true crime content in 2023?

I will be continuing on, working on my book and who knows what the future holds for my channel. Watch this space.....

Q51) What is your first reaction when someone says that you're one of their favourite true crime writers?

I get lovely messages and emails and it always blows me away. Whenever I get such positive comments it feels like being a kid at school and having your drawing put up on the classroom wall, it's such a nice feeling. What also feels rewarding is when victim's families or friends reach out and tell me that I did a good job and thanking me for writing about their loved one.

Q52) Is it true that you have written over 260 true crime stories/articles?

Yes, and I don't plan on stopping any time soon

Q53) Apart from your blog, is there another true crime writer you would recommend?

I always recommend the writer and podcaster, Steven Pacheco of the Trace Evidence podcast.

Q54) How would you describe yourself?

A spicy cocktail, a Diva, a hardworker with a kind heart.

Q55) How do you feel you are perceived?

As a Diva or bimbo lol

Q56) Which is the biggest misconception about you?

That I'm dumb or stuck-up because I'm glamorous

Q57) Who do you admire the most?

I don't know if I can pick one person. I feel inspired by a lot of people, every day.

Q58) What is the best advice on writing that you have ever received?

Just be yourself, let the words flow and if your mind goes blank, don't force it, take a couple of weeks off and come back to it.

Q59) What advice would you offer to your 16 year old self?

Be patient, everything will work out for the better, you'll see.

Q60) How do you react to criticism?

If it's something helpful and meant in a positive way, I take it on board. If it's someone just trying to be negative, I either ignore it and block, or I give them a piece of my mind....and then block them lol.

Q61) Who was the best designer of all time?

Versace

Q62) If you could recommend a true crime podcast or youtube channel who would it be?

Trace Evidence

Q63) What is an issue that you wish a lot of us would talk about more often?

Internet trolls and the rise in suicides because of online bullying

Q64) What would you like to see more of in the true crime community in 2023?

More originality and continuation of raising awareness of cold cases and missing persons.

Q65) What does it mean to be a female writer today?

I think we still have a long way to go like a lot of things. We have some amazing female writers that deserve more recognition.

Q65) Do you consider yourself a feminist?

Yes but not one of the extreme ones

Q66) What does feminism mean to you?

Supporting other women, sisterhood! Encouraging each other

Q67) What's one thing that is going to save humanity?

Love and sustainability

Q68) What advice would you give to someone who is thinking about starting a true crime blog or podcast?

Plan well and be prepared to work hard! A lot of long hours and late nights, early mornings are involved. It is a full time job.

Q69) What is your favourite thing to snack on whilst you are doing true crime research?

I like coffees, sometimes I might have some strawberries or crisps, it depends how hungry I am but I always have drinks.

Q70) How long does it take you to research true crime cases?

Depends on the cases, I like to spend a full week on each case.

Q72) Is there anything you would like to say to your supporters and readers of your true crime content?

Thank you so much for being so supportive over the years and hopefully you will still continue to support me, read and share my posts as it means the world to me, Thank you.

Q73) And finally, if you were to recommend one of your true crime posts to a new reader, which would it be?

To pick one, off of the top of my head, I would say: The Life & Gruesome Crimes of Jeffrey Dahmer (& other details you may not know). Obviously, everyone is talking about Jeffrey right now because of the series on Netflix but if you fancy reading about the case, please check out my post.

And there you have it. I hope you enjoyed this post, it's nice to do something a little different.

I hope you will join me next time, for more true crime related content.

And remember, stay safe out there x (Come say hi on any of my socials: here)