I received a complimentary print copy of this book from the publisher and Bookish First Impressions in exchange for an unbiased review.
This is the first true crime book I’ve read by this author but won’t be the last. He has a unique manner of presenting all the facts from every perspective. It is obvious that extensive research has been done to write such a compelling book.
As Mark Twain is noted for stating: “Truth is stranger than fiction, but it is because Fiction is obliged to stick to possibilities; Truth isn't.”
Since this is true crime there really are no “spoilers” as the case has been followed and reported by the media outlets. I will add my review regarding my personal comments and opinions.
The author goes to great lengths to make the story about the victim Mary Yoder and not the sensationalized media attention or conspiracy theories. I admire the presentation of the facts and evidence as they are and not what some would like them to be. Just because people “can’t imagine” someone being capable of such heinous acts doesn’t mean she didn’t commit them!
It is obvious that Kaitlyn “Katie” Conley is a person with deep rooted psychological issues. An example of a sociopath with whom we should all take note as there are many people in world just like her. The conniving and manipulative mastermind of those people should not be underscored.
Another appalling aspect was that regarding Dateline and their coverage of the case. I don’t recall whether I watched that episode. The author is respectful but does share information that he received from several reliable sources. As much as we hope that media presentation will be accurate we must always remember that people are human. The human spirit is strong and wants to believe the best of people and shun the possibility of such evil. The most difficult task is to put all feelings aside and examine facts without emotion or judgment. I believe that M William Phelps possess that ability.
This is the first true crime book I’ve read by this author but won’t be the last. He has a unique manner of presenting all the facts from every perspective. It is obvious that extensive research has been done to write such a compelling book.
As Mark Twain is noted for stating: “Truth is stranger than fiction, but it is because Fiction is obliged to stick to possibilities; Truth isn't.”
Since this is true crime there really are no “spoilers” as the case has been followed and reported by the media outlets. I will add my review regarding my personal comments and opinions.
The author goes to great lengths to make the story about the victim Mary Yoder and not the sensationalized media attention or conspiracy theories. I admire the presentation of the facts and evidence as they are and not what some would like them to be. Just because people “can’t imagine” someone being capable of such heinous acts doesn’t mean she didn’t commit them!
It is obvious that Kaitlyn “Katie” Conley is a person with deep rooted psychological issues. An example of a sociopath with whom we should all take note as there are many people in world just like her. The conniving and manipulative mastermind of those people should not be underscored.
Another appalling aspect was that regarding Dateline and their coverage of the case. I don’t recall whether I watched that episode. The author is respectful but does share information that he received from several reliable sources. As much as we hope that media presentation will be accurate we must always remember that people are human. The human spirit is strong and wants to believe the best of people and shun the possibility of such evil. The most difficult task is to put all feelings aside and examine facts without emotion or judgment. I believe that M William Phelps possess that ability.