Murder in the Heartland

Very well written. Such a sad story! proof again that there are very evil people on this earth.

Phelps' book about the Lisa Montgomery case is well written/researched; he obviously did his homework. In the early chapters, the reader is able to get a glimpse of the close, loving relationship that Zeb and Bobbie Jo Stinnett shared. They had looked forward to owning their own house and having a family of their own. Phelps went on to say "Live was sweet". Lisa M. had been lying to her family, friends, and community about being 'pregnant'. In order to save face, she needed to produce a baby so she targeted Bobbie Jo, who was 8 mos pregnant, murdered her and cut/ripped her baby girl from her womb. Back in KS, Lisa presented the baby as her own while police in MO were investigating the crime scene and sending out an amber alert for the baby. Ben Espey, the sheriff is a hero for jumping through hoops in order to get that amber alert out to bring Victoria Jo back to safety, home to her father, Zeb Stinnett. I was so happy that Victoria Jo survived and was returned to her father. Carl Boman had many interesting things to say about his relationship with Lisa. He knew Lisa better than anyone and had plenty to say. I enjoyed hearing from Lisa's children too, especially Kayla. They have been devastated by Lisa's crime and they, too, are her victims. I really appreciate Phelps' update for the paperback explaining to his critics why he wrote the book prior to Lisa's trial. Although, he doesn't owe us an explanation, I am glad that he gave us one. This really is an excellent literary account of Lisa's life and the crime itself. The info on the backstory is amazing; info we might not get from the trial. Murder In The Heartland is a book that stands on its own!

Well written and evenly paced, Phelps details the gruesome case with a deft and sympathetic touch. I enjoyed this book greatly, and am looking forward to the updated paperback version.