The Perfect Husband

Book Description

What would you do if the man of your dreams hides the soul of a killer?

Jim Beckett was everything she'd ever dreamed of...But two years after Tess married the decorated cop and bore his child, she helped put him behind bars for savagely murdering ten women. Even locked up in a maximum security prison, he vowed he would come after her and make her pay. Now the cunning killer has escaped—and the most dangerous game of all begins....

After a lifetime of fear, Tess will do something she's never done before. She's going to learn to protect her daughter and fight back, with the help of a burned-out ex-marine. As the largest manhunt four states have ever seen mobilizes to catch Beckett, the clock winds down to the terrifying reunion between husband and wife. And Tess knows that this time, her only choices are to kill—or be killed.

Lisa Gardner sold her first novel when she was 20 years old. In 1993 she graduated magna cum laude from the University of Pennsylvania with a degree in international relations. She lives in Rhode Island, where she is at work on her next novel of suspense.

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Praise for The Perfect Husband:

"A streamlined bang-up addition to the oeuvre of Tami Hoag, Karen Robards, Elizabeth Powell and, these days, even Nora Roberts." --Publishers Weekly

"A dark, powerful tale of nerve-shattering suspense."
--Tami Hoag

"A chilling story of revenge and betrayal, with one of the creepiest villains I've ever read."
--Iris Johansen, New York Times-bestselling author of The Ugly Duckling

"An unforgettably evil villain and a throat-gripping climax make The Perfect Husband a real page-turner!"
--Tess Gerritsen, New York Times-bestselling author of Harvest

"I loved this book! I was up till 2 a.m. finishing it!"
--Karen Robards, New York Times-bestselling author of Walking After Midnight and Hunter's Moon

"Nail-biting suspense...a taut roller coaster of a story that kept me up very, very late."
--Kay Hooper, nationally bestselling author of Amanda and After Caroline

"A superlative read, with vivid characters, faultless procedure, and a villain who will whisper in the dark evertime you turn off the light."
--Eileen Dreyer, nationally bestselling author of Brain Dead

From the Paperback edition.

Customer Reviews:

Lisa Gardner gives me nightmares!.......2007-08-22

Bloody disturbing book! I had nightmares about opening my closet, about evil policemen, about opening my door to strangers... had them for WEEKS after reading this book. Lisa Gardner has the gift of paralyzing you with fear, shocking you to your core, and then making you feel all warm and fuzzy when the victim finds a big tough guy to take care of her. Tess is a completely helpless character who doesn't let that stop her from fighting like a spitting cat, and you just can't help feeling for her. J.T. is a gruff but lovable prickly teddy bear who doesn't want to let Tess in, but can't resist her either. Jim Beckett is entirely detestable. It's impossible to have any feeling other than loathing for this character. This is a page-turner that will keep you awake at night, but you won't want to put it down to face the nightmares that might lurk behind that closet door. The characters are incredible!

Serial Killers and Romance Don't Mix..........2007-07-30

I thought this book was pretty good; the last 50 pages were very gripping. What bothered me, though, was the romance. I like to read suspense novels for the suspense, not because I want to read about the characters hooking up. I know this author has written a ton of romance novels, but I would've preferred not to read about romance in this book. Also, some of the sex scenes were pretty ridiculous. There was one passage about "feeling like a Spring rain and smelling of her roses," or something like that, which was so cliched, I was embarrassed and actually irritated that the author thought so little of her readers to think that a description like that would be appreciated. Also, I found it unbelievable that Tess had any interest in sex after her serial killer ex-husband kidnapped their daughter. That was just stupid. I think the story was good, but the romance/sex was unnecessary. It "dumbed down" the book, in my opinion.

Why do I keep reading her trash??.......2007-07-16

I bought this book on sale at Wal-Mart looking for a cheap summer thriller, and I can't finish it. I read about a book a week, and this is one of those books that puts you off reading for months. You can't finish it, and you can't just start another because you are totally bummed about reading now! Her characters are lame, the story runs the same darn scenario over and over. I am on page 120 or so and the same thing is happening as was on page 10..."train me" "I can't, I'm too mysterious and have daddy issues and can't open up" "but train me I need you" "I will but I will be weird and argue with my sister all the time because I have daddy issues" "but train me" "I will but I have daddy issues and my kid died" "but train me I need you and won't talk about it and will take 300 pages before I give a clue to what this book is about" "I have daddy issues and this book is lame". STOP WRITING LISA!!!!! This book got 1 star because I couldn't give it a zero.

Would this demon be captured? A novel of great suspense.......2007-06-16

J.T. Dillon, a very depressed and retired Ex-Marine thought his days of protecting people were over. But when Tess appeared on his doorstep begging for help and protection from her serial killer husband Jim Beckett, J.T. relented and gave in. Tess had a four-year-old daughter she had to keep hidden away for her own safety, as Jim was a terribly dangerous man. A cop himself, he found an escape route from prison and was on the run killing again, his main goal to kill Tess this time around.

J.T.'s sister Marion was also an FBI agent and came into the picture trying to help. Between her, J.T. and Quincy, another detective, they all form a team to capture Jim. But not before he kills a few others.

There is a secret hiding house for protection where Detective Difford, and Sam, the little girl are staying. But Jim locates this place and kills the detective there, stuffing his body into a car trunk, and kidnapping his little girl.

With Samantha in danger now, Tess is horribly frightened. They must get to Jim before time runs out for both her, and her daughter. J.T. and his crew must form a plan quickly, but not before Jim Beckett strikes and kills again.

unbelieveable.......2007-05-22

i have tried & tried many books by this author, & cannot for the life of me find what everyone is so taken with by her... has noone read any decent novels to compare with lisa gardner?? if i read *in the good/bad news department* one more time, i think i might even become the subject of a horror novel myself. lisa repeats herself so many times throughout the book, it becomes maddening. i have tried & tried to like this author, but just cannot find a book that even compares to decent , talented authors who know how to write. her characters are a joke, & the stories are just so amaturish, it is impossible to read them with a straight face. i couldnt even finish this book, again, with certian annoying phrases continuosly being repeated throughout the entire book. i cannot fathom how this author has gotten the reviews she has. her fans should check out some different, TALENTED authors, & see what they have been missing. i will never read another book by lisa gardner ever again.

The Perfect Paragon (Agatha Raisin Mysteries)

Average customer rating:

Agatha's Detective Agency Deepens Its Capabilities
Have you heard from Agatha lately?
Going downhill...such a shame
My 2 Cents Worth
The Perfect Paragon

The Perfect Paragon (Agatha Raisin Mysteries)
M. C. Beaton
Manufacturer: St. Martin's Minotaur
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 031230448X
Release Date: 2005-07-14

Book Description

'Outwardly bossy and vain, inwardly insecure and vulnerable, Agatha grows more endearing with each installment.'-Cleveland Plain Dealer After being nearly killed by both a hired hit man and her former secretary, Agatha Raisin could use some low-key cases. So when Robert Smedley walks through the door, determined to prove that his wife is cheating, Raisin In-vestigations immediately offers to help. Trouble is, Agatha hates divorce cases-especially when she's been hired by a pompous jerk like Smedley-but she has a business to run now and she's not about to turn away a paying client.

Customer Reviews:

Agatha's Detective Agency Deepens Its Capabilities.......2007-10-03

Although this is the 16th mystery in the Agatha Raisin series, you could enjoy this book as a stand-alone if you don't want to go back. Of those earlier books, I do especially recommend the first one, Agatha Raisin and the Quiche of Death.

Agatha Raisin had a rough start to her detective agency in The Deadly Dance. She learned she didn't really know all that much about detecting, that getting and keeping good help are hard, and that the police don't like amateur detectives who set up agencies any more than they like amateur detectives.

As The Perfect Paragon opens, the detective business is operating more smmothly . . . if only there were more business to operate. The money is in divorces, but Agatha has tried to avoid those cases due to having been recently divorced. But when business is slow, she agrees to check on Robert Smedley's wife, Mabel, who has shown an unusual (for her) tendency to act independently of her husband. Who is she buying those new clothes for? At the same time, Agatha has the usual run of missing teenagers and dogs where she normally makes good progress.

Agatha's agency soon makes a hash of the Smedley assignment, and after that she's off the case for other reasons. When a missing teenager turns out to be a murder victim, the obvious suspects seem to be unlikely killers, and Agatha is at a loss to figure out what happened . . . until Mrs. Bloxby gives her a hint as to motive. Before the story is over, crimes are spilling out in all directions.

Agatha adds a new staff member who brings some pizzazz to Agatha's investigations, and Agatha gets occasional help from her old detective partner, Sir Charles Fraith. Being as insensitive as ever to others, she virtually destroys her relationship with Bill Wong in the process of trying to find the killer and accept Bill's hospitality.

The story has a few weaknesses that are unfortunate: The investigation is turned into more of a circus than is really needed to make a good story, agency people make more dumb mistakes than seem likely, and there are a few too many coincidences in how the key facts are turned up.

The actual mystery is better developed and hidden than in many earlier books. And Agatha mostly avoids being her most annoying self.

I think these detective-agency cases will be the saving of this series, even though M. C. Beaton couldn't resist having Agatha fall for yet another handsome man.

Consider all the circumstances if you want to get at the truth!

Have you heard from Agatha lately?.......2007-04-03

This latest (16th) entry into the long running Agatha Raisin series opens as Agatha is seeking advice from her friend, the vicar's wife, about her new detective agency. Business is slow and Agatha is having doubts about the whole thing. She is surprised when the advice she is given is not to scale back but rather to hire a new employee. Reluctantly Agatha agrees and soon finds herself with more cases, and staff than she had ever imagined. She is even working with the local police! And being Agatha there is a new romance on the horizon.

Authors of series novels are faced with some difficult choices. Should their main character age as the series progress or stay the same? How many murders can a person just stumble on to? If the author chooses not to age the character then how to keep the series fresh? Criticisms begin about the stories becoming boring, formulistic etc. If the character does age or change in anyway the complaints are that he/she is not the same. In my opinion Beaton has reached a happy compromise with Agatha who ages slightly with each novel and her personality also matures slightly as time goes on. In the later books Agatha is beginning to realize that she must consider other people's feelings, that the traits that brought her success in the London business world are not serving her well in a small village. To solve the problem of how many bodies Agatha could just happen on to, Beaton has had Agatha open a detective agency so the mysteries will be able to present themselves in a more straightforward manner.

These books could be read and enjoyed in any order but due to the on-going story arc of Agatha's personal life it would be better to read them in order.

Going downhill...such a shame.......2007-03-23

Alas, I don't refer to our Agatha's arthritic hip or thickening waist, but to the series. I have delighted in reading Agatha's adventures. Have rolled my eyes at her vanity, shaken my head at her desperation, sympathized with her worries, admired her courage and been completely captivated. The characters, in general, became as familiar and as loved. Roy, Bill, Charles and Mrs. Bloxby, even Miss Simms, all have very human strengths and flaws.

Unfortunately, this latest entry begs comparison with Lilian Braun's "The Cat Who..." series in which the books became carbon copies of each other, progressively blurrier. I must agree wtih the reviewer who commented that the characters were too good to be true and poorly developed, that guesses turned out to be facts and obstacles were too easily overcome. The book was too brief and felt hurried and formulaic, as if Ms. Beaton was under pressure to throw something together quickly.

I'm glad to see Agatha growing, changing and, for that matter, aging. It would simply be too frustrating if she didn't. I'd be content to accompany her on her adventures whether she remains single or enters into marriage. (Although I usually wanted to box James Lacey's ears) What I can't bear is to see is Agatha and the village of Carsely degenerate into the mystery genre's version of fast food, i.e., flavorless, empty and simply there to fill space. I sincerely hope for better things in the next installments.

My 2 Cents Worth.......2007-02-03

I just finished this book, the last of the series (except for the new one in hardback) and am going through withdrawal symptoms. I have read the series straight through and have developed a soft spot for the irrascible Agatha Raisin. While Agatha's going pro is an inevitable progression of the series, I don't like the dissipation caused by too many characters. Other changes are evident in this book. Agatha now cooperates with the police (most of the time) and the police sometimes give her tips. This is the first book where Agatha herself is not in personal danger. Her character has softened somewhat and she's now just understanding the meaning of friendship, which requires giving as well as taking. She's still vain and men obsessed, but doesn't get much satisfaction in this book. Because of that, a melancholy mood has settled over her and she fears loneliness and old age. Speaking of age, the author is going to have to age Agatha a bit. How many years can she spend in her "early 50s"? I love this series and can't wait for the new book to come out in paperback. In the meantime, I'll give the Hamish McBeth series a try.

The Perfect Paragon.......2006-08-05

I have always loved Agatha Raisin. As a matter of fact I got my mother and sister hooked on her also. I was very disappointed in this book. Agatha has lost her spark and fiesty disposition. She needs to drop the detective agency as it makes the story too scattered. Even the love interest fizzled before any fire started. Hope the next one is a gem!

How to Be the Almost Perfect Wife: By Husbands Who Know

Average customer rating:

great book!
Fuel for the Newlywed Soul
good ideas
Filled with gold nuggets for improving your relationship
Wonderful!

How to Be the Almost Perfect Wife: By Husbands Who Know
J. S. Salt
Manufacturer: Shake It
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0966715624

Book Description

What can a woman do to improve her husband's life? That's the question J.S. Salt asked more than a thousand husbands (ages 18-82). Engaging, funny, honest and revealing, here's the definitive guide to what men need from their wives. Finally, men reveal:

* What to do when he wants to go off with the guys

* How to criticize (if you must)

* What to do when you KNOW he's wrong

* How to deal with his shortcomings

* Two little words that can make life a lot easier

* What to do once in a while

* What to do a lot more often

Like its companion book, How to Be the Almost Perfect Husband by Wives Who Know, this insider's guide will surely serve as a catalyst for conversation leading couples to deeper understanding, better relationships, and improved ... everything!

Customer Reviews:

great book!.......2007-03-08

I just received this book today and have already read completely through it. I had my husband go through it and highlight all the things he wanted me to work on. I think this book is going to be great for my marriage. Great book!

Fuel for the Newlywed Soul.......2007-01-04

This book is by no means a wonderpill for awful relationships or a bible for the newlyweds, but no book really is. What this serves as is more of a running start for people who plan to stay together forever. The advice is sound and badly needed, although some of the "experts" have been divorced several times. Other than that, it's a solid four out of five as far as good advice for long, loving relationships. And the reader doesn't feel like they're being psychoanalyzed by a book. This is the healthy marriage book for people who don't want to be therapied to death.

good ideas.......2004-09-02

There are many good ideas throughout this book. Some are obvious, but still a good bit of information. You can learn how to be the wife your husband desires. There is not a lot of depth, however. It is a collection of quotes and nothing more. Why not ask your husband how you can be his perfect wife?

Filled with gold nuggets for improving your relationship.......2004-04-23

As an Author, Coach, and Motivational Speaker I read alot of books about people, their motivations, and their relationships. Wow, How to Be the Almost Perfect Wife is a guys version of a relationship conversation. It's short, direct, and impactful.

Ladies, please read and act on the items listed in this book. Some of the most important for me are:

** Be my cheerleader. Believe that I have the talent to achieve my dreams, even if it takes longer than I ever imagined.

** I love it when you just listen to show you understand. I also love it when you challenge me with a different perspective.

** If I want to go to bed later than you it doesn't mean I don't love you. It means I want to go to bed later than you.

** Pounce on me unexpectedly

Get a copy of this book and use it in your relationship for fun, for passion, and for romance.

Wonderful!.......2003-07-21

This book and the companion book, "How to be the Almost Perfect Husband" are absolutely wonderful. As a couples therapist, these are the things that often come up that men and women want one another to know about. This is great for men to read, to better understand women and also to understand how universal their needs are. I recommend both of these books highly! These are both my new gifts for bridal showers, weddings, and anniversaries. I just love them!!

How to Be the Almost Perfect Husband: By Wives Who Know

Average customer rating:

Caution, whining ahead!!
Guys, it's almost perfect!
Fabulous!
"The Woman Call It As The See It!
A perfect gift

How to Be the Almost Perfect Husband: By Wives Who Know
J. S. Salt
Manufacturer: Shake It
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0966715616

Book Description

What can a husband do to improve his wife's life?" That's the question J. S. Salt asked more than a thousand wives ages 19-78. It's a simple question, yet the answers promise to do more for man/woman relations than chocolates, flowers and all the sweet nothings a man can muster. Honest, revealing, wise and funny, the answers are compiled in this priceless collection. This guide instructs, amuses and provokes as it finally answers the question that has dumbfounded men since Adam bit the apple: "What does a woman want?" Wives tell all: *

What to do when your wife is stressed *

How to get what you want without raising your voice *

What to do before you blow up *

How great sex really begins *

What to do daily and what to do weekly *

The one thing you must never do on Valentine's Day-and more! This delightful-yet telling-glimpse into what women are REALLY thinking is a catalyst for better behavior and, then, better relationships. At last, husbands can get a clue. And it just might save a marriage or two.

Customer Reviews:

Caution, whining ahead!!.......2005-03-03

This is a good book to keep in the bathroom magazine rack. Be careful and just read one or two pages at a sitting.
I made the mistake of reading most of the book at one time .... Whaa, whaa, whaa, blah, blah, blah.
When I finally threw it down I felt like I had been beaten up. Husbands are insensitive, brutish louts!
A lot of the quotes (complaints) are from divorced women, married 2 or 3 times.
Don't get me wrong, there's some good advise here, just ration it out slowly otherwise you might feel like singing the blues.

Guys, it's almost perfect!.......2004-04-23

As an Author, Coach, and Motivational Speaker I read alot of books about people, their motivations, and their relationships. How to Be the Almost Perfect Husband is a cliff notes version of all the relationship books for guys that are out there. Every guy should have a copy as a quick reference guide.

Each of the 100+ pages has a thought, principle, or practice that is short, sweet, and impactful. Not every one will work for every woman so you'll need to try a few out and see the results you get. Some that work for me in my relationship with my wife are:

** I know you want to help, but please don't jump in with a solution before I've finished telling you my problem. Sometimes all I need is a sympathetic ear. - Linda

** Always kiss me good morning and good night. - Penny

** Now and then, let her have a day to herself. It's a wonderful gift that won't cost you a thing. - Suzanna

** Praise your wife, even for the little things. - Susan

Husbands, buy a copy of this cool little book and take action. You'll be very happy with the results.

Fabulous!.......2003-07-21

What a great book! What every man should know - this is what women are really thinking and what they really need. As a couples therapist, these issues are dealt with everytime a couple comes into therapy. It is so important for men and women to understand one another. This book, and the companion book "How to be The Almost Perfect Wife" are great for couples to begin a dialogue into what they need from one another. Highly recommended!!

"The Woman Call It As The See It!.......2003-06-02

Wonderful--- very funny, poignant. In one sentence you can almost sum up the woman's relationship with her husband. What's wrong... and what is right.

I have suspected woman have had these thoughts about men since the beginning of time. J.S. Salt has done his homework. Every man will think his wife is talking about him.

A perfect gift.......2000-02-08

This and its companion book "How to be the perfect wife" are a great gift for Valentines day. They are fun, clever and easy to read. I wish I had read them sooner!

Be Happy or I'll Scream!: My Deranged Quest for the Perfect Husband, Family, and Life

Average customer rating:

Love Sheri's humor
If you love
It's ok.
Poignant, Funny and Painfully Truthful.
Great Book - great service

Be Happy or I'll Scream!: My Deranged Quest for the Perfect Husband, Family, and Life
Sheri Lynch
Manufacturer: St. Martin's Griffin
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 0312342349
Release Date: 2007-02-06

Book Description

Be Happy or Ill Scream! is for every married woman whose fantasy of a sitcom-perfect familythink The Brady Bunch or The Huxtablesis disrupted by the evidence in front of her eyes. Instead of compliant rosy-cheeked children and an adorably tolerant husband ready to go along with zany shenanigans, most women are faced with kids who view family outings with all the enthusiasm of hardened inmates forced to bust rocks on an Alabama roadside and a man who would trade every one of her kooky ideas for just a little more sex and a hot meal on the table at six.

Customer Reviews:

Love Sheri's humor.......2007-08-13

This is a quick read and Sheri's humor is great. I truly enjoyed the book!

If you love.......2007-07-28

to listen to Bob and Sherry, you'll love this book. My mom did and was happy to get it for her B-day. She read it all in like a week.

It's ok........2007-06-27

I love the "Bob and Sheri Show", that's why I thought I would love this book by Sheri Lynch. It wasn't as funny as I thought it would be. Yes, some places had me really laughing, but not the whole thing.

Poignant, Funny and Painfully Truthful........2007-03-29

In this memoir about life with kids and our crazy desire for perfectionism, radio talk-show host Sheri Lynch gives it up. Whether describing a trip to Chicago, the chaos of a toddler birthday party or the near-impossible task of marital sex, she bares her soul with transparency and humor, encouraging us to laugh with her. Poignant, funny and painfully truthful.

Great Book - great service.......2007-03-19

Recieved product in a timely matter. Just what I was looking for. Appreicated being notified that product was available, because I had ordered similar merchandise.

Dead By Sunset: Perfect Husband, Perfect Killer?

Average customer rating:

Suspensful
"A man of monumental ego and suicidal arrogance..."
Thanks Ann!
I had fantasies of strangling this man!!!
Brad-the ultimate con man

Dead By Sunset: Perfect Husband, Perfect Killer?
Ann Rule
Manufacturer: Simon & Schuster
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0684802058

Amazon.com

Another chilling and creepy book from the reigning queen of true-crime, Ann Rule, who also penned the riveting bestseller Small Sacrifices. Here, we encounter a charismatic con-artist accused of brutally bludgeoning his wife and follow his case through to its strangely redemptive end.

Book Description

The shocking tale from true crime queen Ann Rule.

Who is Brad Cunningham?

How could five beautiful, intelligent, and successful women believe he was their dream come true? Ask any women who ever longed for "the perfect man."

Loni Ann, Cynthia, Lauren, Cheryl, and Sara seemed to have it all -- beauty, wealth, children, and a husband who they believed to be this perfect man -- Brad Cunningham. He was handsome, charismatic, and mysterious -- they adored him and tried to give him all he wanted. But he wanted everything -- sex, money, and it seemed, their very lives. How long would it take before he finally got what he deserved?

This question haunts Dead by Sunset -- Ann Rule's riveting and impeccably researched study of the destructive relationships, multiple marriages, financial manipulations, and monstrous acts of harassment and revenge that surrounded Brad Cunningham and his wives. It is also a penetrating -- and ultimately shocking -- recreation of Cheryl's murder and the eight years it took to bring her killer to justice.

Dead by Sunset is a chilling look at the evil that lurks behind the most charming of facades, and a fascinating homage to the kind of courage and brilliance it takes to combat it.

Download Description

Dead By Sunset is the extraordinary true story of a charismatic man adored by beautiful and brilliant women who always gave him what he wanted. But he wanted everything--sex, money, and their lives. How long would it take before he finally got what he deserved?

Customer Reviews:

Suspensful.......2007-09-24

This book was superbly written. I've read a lot of Ann Rule, and in my opinion, this was the best. There was a sick, ominious feeling throughout, because you knew it was going to get worse, but I couldn't tear myself away. I am amazed at Ms. Rule's ability to weave a story, complete with each of the many characters' backgrounds and present situations, without it seeming choppy.

A sample of her superb writing in this story: "...the enmity in Cheryl's relationship with Brad was intensifying. And as it did...the essence that was Cheryl had begun, finally, to disentegrate. As water eventually erodes stone after an eon of continual dripping, Brad's relentless seige against Cheryl was working its devastation."

Hard to believe that what I read in this book actually happened. I can only hope that somewhere deep in Brad's warped mind, he knows what a complete loser he is. I hope he has only female jailers who tell him what a piece of "garbage" he is every single day!

After finishing this book, I can only think of Cheryl as a martyr. Her unwilling sacrifice saved so many people from being tormented by Brad forever. At least in jail, his victims know where he is.

READ THIS BOOK!

"A man of monumental ego and suicidal arrogance...".......2007-07-09

Brad Cunningham was clearly the epitome of delusional narcissism. The classic sociopath/psychotic, without conscience, he cared for no one's feelings but his own. His personality disorders deemed him dangerous, placing him beyond any woman's worst nightmare. Lack of empathy and compassion combined with total self-absorption may make it difficult to see what anyone would find attractive about him; however, that is what characterizes people like Brad Cunningham as pure evil. He seeks out the perfect victim. He makes her feel important or needed or beautiful or whatever. There is a reason women fall for these men. Most are victims to begin with. I hope people do not judge Brad's victims too harshly. Sometimes others have a tendency to wonder how women could fall for guys like that. Men like Brad Cunningham know exactly what they are doing. I have read all of Ann Rule's books. I tout them as "must reads."

Thanks Ann!.......2007-07-08

This is a gripping book from start to finish. It's hard to believe that there are real life 'psycho' people out there like Brad. He had to just be so charismatic to lure these normal, unsuspecting woman into his life like he did. This was a great book and had me up late turning pages- then cuddling up next to my wonderful husband and thanking the Good Lord above for my blessings!!!!

I had fantasies of strangling this man!!!.......2007-04-06

This book is excellent. Ann Rule really develops these characters to the extent you can feel the fear that was instilled in them by this man. Seldom have I ever felt such a rage towards anyone like I did Brad Cunningham when I read this book. Evil is too nice a word to describe Brad Cunningham. This man is nothing short of a monster and Ann Rule is at her best in telling the horrific evil he dispensed on everyone who came into contact with him.

Brad-the ultimate con man.......2007-02-14

I just finished reading 8 of ann rules books i dont know why I just found her - but i am so glad i have!!!! So many of the men/women who commit the crimes she relates are really so fascinating. I think Ann does an incredible job of weaving the history of the people involved, the psychological profiles, and the trials with updates and pictures...it's all good...

The people who perpetrate these crimes are such charming "users" - it is quite overwhelming to read 8 of her books in a row - i am watching neighbors to see if any of them seem psychotic!! Can make you a tad paranoid, but hey, these books are true and we should all be a bit more careful out there.

So I'm a new fan, cannot wait to buy more of her books!!!

Perfect Husband: True Story Trustng Bride Who Discovered Husband Coldblooded Killer

Average customer rating:

I'm in the book....

Perfect Husband: True Story Trustng Bride Who Discovered Husband Coldblooded Killer
Provost
Manufacturer: Atria
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
ASIN: 0671724932

Customer Reviews:

I'm in the book...........2004-05-05

They spelled my name wrong and left out the most interesting part of my involvement.....................

Average customer rating:

Gripping Suspense

The Perfect Husband
Lisa Gardner
Manufacturer: Bantam Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
Similar Items:

ASIN: 1568656017

Product Description

Suspense Thriller....What would you do if the man of your dreams hides the soul of a killer. Jim Beckett was everything she'd ever dreamed of...But two years after Tess married the decorated cop and bored his child she helped put him behind bars for savagely murdering ten woman......

Customer Reviews:

Gripping Suspense.......2005-03-11

Lisa Gardner has found a perfect story of a heroine, the outsider, and the FBI. She introduces the characters such that you truly know how they feel and survive. The deranged, Jim Beckett is the ultimate evil. This story makes you feel the terror and the urgency of a mother protecting her child and her own life. We also get the first glance into the life of FBI Agent Quincey.

Death in a Fish Pond: A Perfect Husband, a Perfect Marriage, a Perfect Murder?

Average customer rating:

missing a lot of information
Poorly written with poor punctuation.
Authentic and compelling
SO HAPPY...JUSTICE WAS DONE FOR MY FRIEND PAM
Fishpond is Fascinating

Death in a Fish Pond: A Perfect Husband, a Perfect Marriage, a Perfect Murder?
Howard R. Lemcke
Manufacturer: New Horizon Press
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

Murder & Mayhem | True Accounts | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books

True Crime | True Accounts | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books
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ASIN: 0882822608

Book Description

A terrified scream forever shattered the quiet calm of a Utah neighborhood as a distraught husband pulled is beloved wife from the backyard fishpond he had recently constructed. At first glance, police had no reason to be suspicious regarding Pamela Mead's death. Her husband David was obviously suffering from the loss and no evidence immediately pointed to foul play. However, in the days and weeks that followed, suspicions were steadily aroused. Women who claimed to have relationships with David contacted police with troubling stories. David's cousin, a recovering drug addict, surfaced to recount a shocking proposal made shortly before Pamela's death. An unusually large life-insurance policy was purchased mere months before the so-called accident. And when police returned to the Mead household to gather more evidence, the fishpond where David Mead found his departed wife was gone.

Written by the prosecutor of the criminal trial, Death in a Fish Pond is the chilling detailed account of the perfect husband, the murder, and the two trials to bring the killer to justice.

Customer Reviews:

missing a lot of information .......2006-07-02

This book is more about the man who wrote it then the victim & the killer.

I cound not find ages, dates of birth, where born etc.

Poorly written with poor punctuation........2006-03-27

I bought this book after reading the other reviews. Although the case was about the death of a seemingly lovely person, the author seems to want to talk about himself as well as his colleagues, family, career (hx of law school, GI bill, etc). Such extra verbage was not necessary and did not add to the story - it mainly seemed to add to the interest of the author. Also, the editor was obviously a close friend and chose to let these errors go by without clearly using their power to keep the author in his place - the background. I was bored by the writing, excessive storytelling and lack of coherence. This author should stay in fiction and stay away from true victims and their families. That way, he can improve his craft and protect the innocent from his ramblings.

Authentic and compelling.......2006-02-13

This book tells of the events from the time a wife is found dead in her backyard, the husband carrying on as a greatly distressed widower. We follow the events as they unfolded in the eyes of the police and the ultimate prosecutor, the author of this fascinating book. One gets the reactions of the author at each stage of the investigation and at the legal procedures which follow, including a blow-by-blow account of the trial. Any lawyer or judge will be fascinated by the account, as will any lay person who wants to know what a trial is really like so far as the proxecutor is concerned. I found this a really good book, and as I usually do when I read a true crime book I read the opinion from the Supreme Court: State v. Mead, 27 P.3rd 1115 (Utah 2001); and it was like a condensation of the account of the trial we read about in great detail in the book. And one always finds of interest the differences and the samenesses in procedure between what we know in our own state and the way it is done in Utah, and considering which way is better. It balances out, even if one thinks the way it is done in the state with which we are familiar is sometimes preferable.

SO HAPPY...JUSTICE WAS DONE FOR MY FRIEND PAM.......2005-09-12

I have been waiting 11 years to hear what really happened the night og August 15, 1984. I have heard many rumors from co-workers but of course had my own thoughts. I knew Pam well and flew with her often. This book gives her life dignity and respect. I always had that gut feeling she was WAY too good for David. She was one of the kindest and sweetest people I ever was lucky enough to meet. She also told me how much her family from Colorado meant to her. I was unable to attend the funeral and have always felt like I needed to know more. Of course I had me own suspicions from DAY ONE!! I couldn't put the book down...I was very impressed with the writer/prosecutor. Thank you Mr. Lemcke for not only writing a great book but helping a dear friend rest in peace.

Fishpond is Fascinating.......2005-05-30

A vivid look into what it takes to build a case against the cold blooded but seemingly perfect husband. Loved the humanity when dealing with the other players in the drama. Great writing style and insight to how everything in the judicial process falls together.

Average customer rating:

Far from Perfect
Very interesting
This was an awesome story!
i'm surprised
Great Read

A Perfect Husband
Aphrodite Jones
Manufacturer: Pinnacle
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Criminology | Crime & Criminals | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books

Murder & Mayhem | True Accounts | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books

True Crime | True Accounts | Nonfiction | Subjects | Books

All 4-for-3 Deals | 4-for-3 Books Store | Stores | Books
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ASIN: 0786016949

Customer Reviews:

Far from Perfect.......2007-08-02

"He knew his infidelity was not all HER fault..." That sentence, which made me laugh out loud, summarizes the whole book: ridiculous. The author is talking about Kathleen Peterson's first husband, who has the gall to say that his cheating on his wife is not entirely his wife's fault. Gee, what a big man he is. Of course, the guy comes across as the jerk he is, but the problem is that Aphrodite Jones doesn't get it: she takes the guy at face value, as if cheating on his spouse said nothing about him.

Jones also stars out with the description of an ideal evening that is ridiculous considering she believes that Michael Peterson killed his wife on that very evening. She even narrates what was on Kathleen's mind that night--and, unless she's a medium, there was no way for her (or anyone else) to know. The only thing Kathleen Peterson (RIP) was guilty of was a terrible taste in men, and she deserved much better--in her life, in her marriage, and in the book that was written about her. My condolences to her daughter, Caitlin.

Very interesting.......2007-06-25

I have very little patience when it comes to reading. I give a book about 10 pages before I decide if I will continue to read it or not. I was hooked from page one. Unlike some of the other reviewers, I found it very interesting and easy to read. I have a very short attention span when it comes to reading and I found this book to be quite engaging.

This was an awesome story!.......2006-08-27

I would put Aphrodite Jones right up there with Ann Rule as far as writing true crime books. This story was captivating and has somewhat of a surprise endng. I found it difficult to put down and I would recommend it to lovers of true crime books.

i'm surprised.......2006-06-07

this chick could take her tongue out of Mark Geragross's ear to write a book.

Big thumbs down for Hermaphrodite

Great Read.......2006-06-02

Even though I watched the entire trial on court Tv this book went in to so many other factors of Peterson that we did not know. Do not confuse this book thinking it's Scott Peterson.This is another Peterson. Great read could not put down the book.Aphrodite Jones goes in to such detail as if she was there herself watching this horrible situation. She is a great investigative True Crime Author. This Book is a must read.

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