Who Is Ann Rule? Age, Biography and Wiki
Ann Rule was born on October 22, 1931, in Barton City, Michigan, USA. A prolific American true crime author, she was best known for her detailed narratives that blended crime with psychological insights. Her journey began as a police officer, and her writing career took off with the groundbreaking book The Stranger Beside Me, which chronicled the life of her friend and infamous serial killer Ted Bundy.
Despite her passing in 2015, Rule's legacy endures through her numerous publications and the continued fascination with true crime narratives. In 2025, her work remains a staple for true crime enthusiasts and aspiring writers.
| Occupation | Writers |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | October 22, 1931 |
| Age | 83 Years |
| Birth Place | Lowell, Michigan, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Libra |
| Country | U.S |
| Date of death | 26 July, 2015 |
| Died Place | Burien, Washington, U.S. |
Popularity
Ann Rule's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Details about Ann Rule's physical attributes are less often discussed compared to her literary contributions. Throughout her life, she was reported to have a height of approximately 5 feet 6 inches (1.68 meters) and weighed around 140 lbs (63.5 kg) at her prime. Specific measurements have not been publicized, as Rule's focus was primarily on her work rather than her physical appearance.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Ann Rule was married to her first husband, a man named MacDonald, with whom she had three children: a son and two daughters. However, after their divorce, Rule became involved with various relationships throughout her life. She was known for her discretion regarding her personal life after her early marriage. In 2025, she remains a figure of intrigue regarding her private relationships, with readers often speculating about her dating life and romantic involvement.
She was one of two children of Sophie Marie (Hansen) and Chester R. Stackhouse. Her mother was a teacher, specializing in developmentally disabled children, and her father was a football and track and field coach. As Rule did during young adulthood, her family members had careers in law enforcement.
Rule's grandfather and uncle were sheriffs in Michigan. Another uncle was a medical examiner and a cousin was a prosecutor. Rule spent summers with her grandparents doing volunteer work at the local jail.
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of her passing in 2015, Ann Rule was estimated to have a net worth between $3 million to $5 million. This wealth stemmed primarily from her successful writing career, which included over 20 published books, many of which became bestsellers. As of 2025, her estate continues to generate revenue through book sales, adaptations, and licensing agreements, solidifying her place as a prominent figure in the true crime genre.
Career, Business and Investments
Ann Rule's writing career spanned more than three decades, during which she published numerous books that often detailed her firsthand accounts of criminal cases. She not only authored works but also contributed to magazines and wrote articles, expanding her influence in the true crime field.
Rule also made strategic investments in her brand, including appearances in documentaries and discussions about crime. Her business acumen continued to grow her reputation and revenue even after her death, with new generations discovering her work.
Rule's career path included working as a law enforcement officer for the Seattle Police Department as well as writing for publications geared toward women. Beginning in 1969, she wrote for True Detective magazine under the pen name "Andy Stack".
Social Network
Although Ann Rule did not utilize social media platforms during her lifetime, her works continue to engage millions on platforms such as Goodreads and various book discussion communities. Fans and followers often share quotes, discuss her books, and lead discussions about her contributions to the crime writing genre, maintaining an active community that celebrates her legacy.
Rule's next three books, The Lust Killer about Jerry Brudos, The Want-Ad Killer about Harvey Carignan, and The I-5 Killer about Randall Woodfield, were released with her pen name but following the success of the book about Bundy, they were re-released under Rule's name.
Rule's 1987 work, Small Sacrifices, tells the story of Diane Downs, an Oregon woman who in May 1983 murdered her daughter and attempted to murder her other two children. The book was filmed for television in 1989, with Farrah Fawcett in an Emmy-nominated and Peabody-cited performance.
Education
Ann Rule attended the University of Washington where she studied journalism. This educational foundation equipped her with the skills necessary for her writing career and informed her storytelling techniques in true crime literature. Her academic background contributed significantly to her ability to engage readers with factual narratives presented in a compelling style.
In conclusion, Ann Rule's indomitable spirit and talent continue to resonate with audiences in 2025, making her a crucial figure in the true crime genre. Readers and aspiring authors alike continue to celebrate her life, work, and the thrilling narratives that have left an indelible mark on the literary landscape.
She graduated from Coatesville High School in Chester County, Pennsylvania and later earned an associate degree from Highline Community College in Des Moines, Washington. Rule also attended the University of Washington, studying creative writing, criminology and psychology.
