Too often Ann Rule's books seem to be promoted and packaged as something akin to a telemovie film script - that is, more like tabloid material than true journalism. And sometimes the contents of Ann's books don't rise above the lurid packaging. But 'If You Really Loved Me' is truly a moving, shocking story. One can't help but feel empathy for the trusting daughter and total disgust for the manipulative daughter.
Strongly recommended.
David Brown was a ruthless, cruel, cold and calculating sociopath. He was married a total of six times (twice to the same woman) and appeared to be unable to sustain adult relationships. His wives were put to pasture before they hit 25 and it is his wife Linda who suffers most of all.
David used psychological pressure on Cinnamon to kill Linda. Cinnamon, then 14, does so. She is arrested and serves time in a California Youth Authority center. Meanwhile, David is living the good life by marrying Linda's younger sister and making a good living in the computer industry.
Fortunately, David's crimes are brought to light. Witnesses come forward and it is the "biker witness" who wins everybody's heart. Suffering from AIDS and wanting to do the right thing, this witness comes through like the cavalry. He is a good lesson that friends come in all forms.
I was glad that Cinnamon was finally released from the CYA. She was a good kid who really needed a break. At last count, I read that she had recently married and had a child. I also read that she completed her degree. Cinnamon is truly a success story and I prayed for her release and for her happy life for years.