Precious Victims

Penguin True Crime

By: Don W. Weber, Charles Bosworth Jr.

Narrated by: Kevin Pierce

Length: 15 hrs and 42 mins

Publisher's summary

This is a New York Times best-selling true crime book considered by many to be a classic of the genre.

The police in Jersey County, Illinois, accepted Paula Sims' story of a masked kidnapper who snatched her baby girl, Lorelei, from her bassinet. Three years later, her second newborn daughter suffered an identical fate - and this time the police were unable to stop searching until they had discovered the whole horrifying truth. This is the full terrifying story of twisted sexuality and hate seething below the surface of a seemingly normal family and of the massive investigation and nerve-shattering trial that made the unthinkable a reality. Written by the lawyer who won the case and the reporter who covered its entirety, the listener is given a unique close-up of the riveting drama that unfolds, painting a dark picture of the depraved family who lived with a murderous secret.

©2015 Charles Bosworth, Jr., Don Weber (P)2015 Charles Bosworth, Jr.

Very Well Done

This story was well written & compelling with a minimal amount of swearing/foul language. The narration was perfect.

Thoroughly and grossing, a tad slanted, but I know that going in.

Since I don't think any True crime novel could avoid any sort of a slant, I'm not holding it against this book especially given that the prosecuting attorney is the author. That said, the slant is very subtle virtually unnoticeable except in tone in a few spots. For me it played out as thorough examination of a crime, it's investigation and the trial process giving ample insight into the personalities involved. Extra kudos for being detailed without being overly technical or boring and without being overly gruesome in description. Narration is top notch, pitch perfect. Would recommend.

Incredibly Shocking and primal

What did you love best about Precious Victims?

The historical and social information as it pertains to offender (s) in this crime. The detail and meticulous work that went into this project was outstanding.

What was one of the most memorable moments of Precious Victims?

There were so many that I can't choose just one, I would lean towards her confession post conviction. Even then, this offender still couldn't tell the truth.

Which character – as performed by Kevin Pierce – was your favorite?

The prosecuting attorney was "all in" and supported the law enforcement members with the respect and admiration they deserves.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

In the end when both the surviving son and father will killed in an unexpected freak accident.

Any additional comments?

This book had me at the opening chapter, I still can't wrap my mind around the atrocious crime. Well written and beautifully narrated by my favorite "Kevin Pierce"

Far too long...

This book seemed to focus mostly on the prosecution lawyer and the court case. I felt there were also far too many details given about people that really had little to do with the actual story. It was very long and actually, fairly boring. Those interested in law and court cases may find it interesting, I suppose.

Engrossing Story

Would you listen to Precious Victims again? Why?

Yes, I found it to be very well-written.

What other book might you compare Precious Victims to and why?

Small Sacrifices - Paula Sims and Diane Downs are two peas from the same pod. While their personalities are different, they both decided life would be easier without their children.

Have you listened to any of Kevin Pierce’s other performances before? How does this one compare?

I actually listened to this book because it was narrated by Kevin Pierce. I liked the other one he did so much (a Jack Olsen story) I picked this book on that fact alone.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

Yes, at the end when Paula came clean.

Any additional comments?

Give this a try. If you love true crime then this won't disappoint.

True crime must listen!

Great book - big fan of the authors. So far I've listened to two of theirs and they have both been great!

Poor Babies!

Oh my Gosh! I never had heard of this story. It is so evil. If you have never heard of this story listen to the book before Googling too much about it. The ending is terrifying! In addition, the husband was never convicted but how could he not have been involved? Seriously! The real life ending to it all is even more tragic. Great book. Wish it were fictional!

Interesting but sad true crime story

I found this story quite compelling. A tragic story about the murder of two infant girls at the hands of their mother. The narrator is quite good.

Best True Crime Book I’ve read

True crime books can be monotonous and sometimes plain boring. This book was so well written and performed it had me captivated from the first page. It churned up my personal emotions and I was compelled to read it almost constantly until finishing.

wow

what a rollercoaster ride this one was! it was a good book very sad story.