Four Bullets, Four Witnesses, Four Liars: The True Story of a Murder and the Trial That Followed

by Brian Barrie, Brian Greenspan (foreword)

On April 26th, 1988, a man was shot and killed in a remote cabin in rural Ontario.

Four witnesses were questioned by the police. Each one told a different story. Worse, they continued to change their stories, repeatedly contradicting not only each other, but also themselves. Ultimately, a woman named Mae McEachern was charged with murder. But what really happened that night?

Author Brian Barrie acted as Mae’s defense lawyer at her murder trial. In this scintillating true crime novel, Barrie uses the trial transcripts, newspaper articles, and his own memories to piece together the story of who the victim was, who the witnesses were, and how the murder came to pass. He goes on to detail the gripping courtroom drama of the murder trial, where Mae’s innocence was judged by a jury of her peers.

Grappling with themes of mental illness, domestic violence, misogyny, and disability, this astonishing exposé from Delve Books casts a light on how the Canadian justice system can further victimize those who are already vulnerable, while also laying bare the simple kindness and love that can exist between people, even in the harshest of circumstances.

Genres: True Crime, Nonfiction

356 pages, Paperback

Published November 22, 2023

About the author

Brian Barrie lives on Lake Huron, his horizon encircled by fishing islands until backlit by the Red Bay sunsets - a gathering place for a vibrant family life. He graduated from the Royal Miltary College in 1969 and, while serving in Gagetown, obtained a Master’s degree in English, specializing in Canadian literature, from the University of New Brunswick, before pursuing his law degree from Queen's University In Kingston, graduating in 1976. The call of Lake Huron and the unfailing support of his young wife afforded him the choice to establish a trial practice in Owen Sound Ontario, where for 40 years he was privileged to be accepted into a world of wonder and crisis, where strangers entrusted him with their causes, their fight for freedom, their financial survival and granted him access to their innermost fears and hopes. These were the living stories that provided motivation and instruction beyond books and cemented lasting relationships between a lawyer and his client. From a small town practice Brian Barrie defended 13 individuals charged with murder, acted for the Deputy Chief of Defence in the Somalia inquiry and three families who lost loved ones in the Walkerton Water crisis, among other things. As well, he served two terms on the board of directors of the Ontario Trial Lawyers Association. In his last trial, Superior Court Justice Conlan made note of Mr. Barrie’s legal contributions, referring to him in his written judgement “ as one of the best barristers to ever practise law in the Counties of Grey and Bruce”. But Brian Barrie could not still his passion for writing, while practising law. He published four books for children or youth between 2007 and 2019, which have been cherished by local Owen Sound readers. See www.brianbarrie.com to learn more about these titles, their story lines and their reviews. And now he has written a true life murder mystery ( ‘Four Bullets, Four Witnesses, Four Liars’ ), based on his second murder trial, which has won praise from jurists and the readers of true crime novels, alike. As Brian Barrie said: “ Every human life carries with it a unique and noble story worth telling and there are so many more stories that still need telling.”

Reviews

[Sheila · Rating 5 out of 5]

I would not normally read crime stories, whether fictional or not. But this one kept me completely engaged. I lived in the area where the story happened and so I knew all the locations and many characters’ names were familiar. The books foreword written by a colleague of the author talks about “a compelling reality to the exchanges and interactions revealed in the backstory as the mirror and reflect the fact that we are confirmed at trial.” This story exposes some elements of the judicial system at the same time it attempts to unravel who really killed Jimmy Strutton. A well organized book with clear eloquent prose. Crime or not, I recommend this one.

[Linda Lpp · Rating 4 out of 5]

From the first few pages, I knew this book would be difficult to put down. Based on a true murder from the late 80's, Brian Barrie the defense lawyer involved in the case painstakingly took us along as he followed the lives of the key players/suspects.
I found it interesting as I grew up in the Canadian locale ( around Owen Sound). Landmarks and even a few of the secondary characters were familiar.

The book was well laid out in sections, focused on people involved, crime details, prosecution and court dynamics including interpersonal fire works throughout.

The book cover outlines the book contents. No point in further elaboration.
You really need to follow along, in the determination of "who done-it". Is difficult to stick with one explanation, right to the end. I enjoyed the story and hope you do as well.

[Debra Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

Four Bullets, Four Witnesses, Four Liars, set in a rural Ontario landscape, offers a first-hand glimpse into our Canadian justice system and its inherent flaws.

True Crime is a compelling genre, but the nuance of fictionalizing non-fiction is an art that adds depth to the characters and connects the reader to the unravelling of the story.

The first part of the book, the backstory, was a clever way to use artistic license in order to provide the reader with emotional connection to the characters, especially Mae. For the remainder of the book, we feel empathy for Mae who, despite so many societal knocks, exudes a gentle spirt and trust in others.

Part Two offers a fascinating insight into the intricacies, inherent biases and misogyny of the legal system, and of humans themselves.

A test of a good novel is when I think of characters long after the story has ended. In this case, my “book hangover” leaves me pondering the themes exposed by the case: inequity, poverty, discrimination, vulnerability; and yet, the overriding message that morality and compassion for the human condition must endure.

Four Bullets, Four Witnesses, Four Liars is a compelling, well-written page-turner that makes one ponder the inherent biases present in our justice system and society itself.

[John McCormick · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished reading Four Bullets, Four Witnesses, Four Liars. I held off reading this first published work of a neophyte author as I gave myself your novel as a Christmas present. For someone who has been technical his entire career I do read a lot – some of my favorite authors are: Scot Turow, John Grisham and D. W. Buffa. In addition to reading a lot, I am very critical of some authors, David Baldacci, for example. Knowing that I was a critical reader it was with some apprehension I started this first work– I did not expect Mr. Barrie to end up in the Baldacci group, neither did I expect him to end up in the Turow group, but he did – end up in the Turow group, that is!
Perhaps it was the subject matter (criminal law) and/or the Norman Mailer form (non-fiction with reasonable artistic license) that made me the ideal reader, but I cannot recall a first novel that I have enjoyed more – ever!

[Mark Moore]

This debut novel by Brian Barrie is not only a good read, it's a great read. The story is based on the true story of the murder of Jimmy Strutton and the trial that followed. Three people live in a cabin near Owen Sound with Jimmy at the time of the murder; Mae McEachern, Jimmy's long suffering partner, Paige Stephenson, a young teenage girl Mae had befriended, and Paige's cousin, Matthew Eaton.

Mae McEachern confesses to and, not surprisingly, is charged with Jimmy's murder. To complicate matters, Paige and Mae's mother, Daisy Mole, also confess to killing Jimmy. In a later version of her story, Paige accuses John of firing one or more of the four bullets that killed Jimmy. Jimmy is revealed as a violent, abusive, petty criminal, so regardless of who fired how many bullets, is it a simple case of self defence?

Lawyers Brian Barrie and Julia Morneau take on the case. Mae is a passive and peaceful woman who lives on a disability pension, so Brian and Julia go to the crown prosecutor to cut a deal based on self defence. Surprisingly, the prosecutor sees the case from a different point of view and decides to seek the maximum penalty possible. To make the task of defending Mae even more difficult, Mae draws a judge with a predilection for prosecution-friendly decisions and heavy punishments.

What seems at the start to be a simple murder case grows into a complex web of contradictory statements and changing stories. It's beyond the abilities of the well meaning but overworked police investigators to sort it out. Does "blind justice" mean ignoring the plight of vulnerable people like Mae, who have no money and with limited life skills?

This is a classic whodunnit with a modern twist. Mae was charged, but did she do it? If not, who did it? Did they all do it? Can you predict the jury's verdict?

[Jovdb · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author gave this book to our daughter, the owner of an independent bookstore close to where the author lives. She gave it to me to read as this genre, murder/crime, is the type of book I like to read. Although, I usually don’t read true crime.

The first part of the book is the author’s interpretation of life before the murder. As I was reading this, it struck me that this was based on the lives of real people! A small community harboured these individuals and their complex lives. It is amazing to think that people actually live like this - in fear, in poverty, and marginalized. The author’s writing drew me into this sad depiction of how others live.

The second part of the book concentrated on the trial and court scenes. I found it interesting to read how the legal system works in Canada and in a small community. As I read the excerpts from the trial notes, I tried to imagine the setting, a rustic, basic, isolated dwelling just a few kilometres from a busy, bustling town.

The ending was a puzzle. Even with the insights from the legal defence team, it was difficult to surmise what actually happened. Yes there was a verdict, but was it the right one?

A well written novel that drew me into the lives of the characters and kept me enthralled to the end.

[Josh · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m surprised I never heard about this story as I’m very much a true crime aficionado & live fairly close to the area this happened, but I’m glad I never did cause it made this book even more great. I really enjoyed how extremely detailed it was & character driven & really shows the workings of the Canadian justice system in the 80s. I think the story itself is super intriguing & leaves you guessing as to what really happened on the night in question. I do believe Justice was served & the right person was acquitted even if it resulted in the crime never truly being discovered. In my opinion most like the daughter did it from what the evidence is pointing to & Mae was trying to protect & cover for her. We will never know for sure but that’s my assumption on it. This was a great read & didn’t feel dragged on in the slightest. I really enjoyed this & would love to hear more stories regarding Brian Barrie’s cases because of this is an indication, they have to be interesting.

[R Obert · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fictional account of a murder and subsequent trial which remains impeccably true to fact.
The story begins with a description of the lives of desperate dispossessed people,leading to the death by shooting of ,one Jimmy Stratton. The description gives context to the trial and an introduction to the intricacies of a murder trial.strategies of cross examination,handling of expert testimony and management of witnesses ,and the finer points of pleading.
It introduces a cast of characters,a theatrical and menacing crown attorney whose effectiveness is diminished by his eccentricity,a not fully impartial judge, and slippery witnesses.
You are introduced to the differences between legality and morality and the philosophical undercurrents of the legal system. Leading to the jury’s verdict. Which you will discover upon reading. Was justice served ? you be the judge.

[Robert Hughes · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great True Crime novel. Reads in two parts: the first a evolving story of inner family conflict leading to murder, and the second a dramatic criminal trial leaving to the very last, the question of the guilt of the accused. Loved the character development in Part 1, creating empathy for the accused and central character Mae. More so, I particularly enjoyed the details of the trial provided in Part 2, including stinging criticism of the judicial system, inside information on criminal trial strategy, and insight into the philosophy of a caring criminal attorney who understands that lower income folks are often disadvantaged when confronting the legal system. It seemed to me the book, which details an actual Canadian case, would make an excellent TV serial or movie, and would have wide international appeal. R. Hughes, Huntsville, Ontario

[Frank Greaves · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent book based on a true story which pulls back the curtain on the lives of several people struggling with chronic societal disadvantages, culminating with a murder and subsequent trial.
The story is well told, complex and very interesting, by an experienced small town trial lawyer, who allows the characters to come alive on the page, often using their own testimony from the trial.
Glimpses of the inner workings of the Canadian justice system are refreshingly revealed in counterpoint to the more storied one of our cousins to the south. Highly recommended reading for students of the human condition, a sympathetic look at the woven fabric of real life, where not all questions have answers and motives remain murky.

[K Crozier · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great read. My usual line up consists of Ian Rankin, Jo Nesbo, Henning Mankell and now Brian Barrie! Unlike the other authors mentioned, who focus primarily on fiction, this is an unbelievable true story that focusses on the lives of several people in small town Ontario. At times I had to remind myself that this is non-fiction, with real people and real lives. The book helped me realize how much difference there is in our society. The book is well organized into two parts. Not only does it tell a fantastic story but gives insight into the legal system, which (thankfully!) I do not know a lot about. I hope there is another book in the works!

[Joe Bartolacci · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book reads like the best Perry Mason or David Mamet's "The Verdict". However, Brian Barrie's writing style is crisp, with no superfluous prose. At the same time, each setting, character or incident can be clearly visualized.
The title fits the intertwined characters right to the conclusion. The eagerly anticipated "gotcha" does not disappoint, even though you hope or know it is coming.
This is a great legal cliff hanger that fully satisfies, filled with clearly identified characters and all their human flaws.
I hope Brian Barrie has another legal true crime story in the near future!

[Meredith · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’m not usually one to read true crime, but it was the book club pick since it’s local. The story itself was interesting, so the first half was very enjoyable - though not technically the “true” story of what happened, as it was a retelling of a retelling that the author admitted to making some parts of it up.

The court side of the story fell a little flat, it went back and forth between quotes directly from the trial and his own words/memories/etc which made it feel… disjointed. I’d have rather just read court transcripts with his own commentary than to cut some parts of it out to fill in with his own words.

Fascinating story though.

[Viktoria M · Rating 4 out of 5]

Usually, I'm not a true crime person. However I found the fact that the author himself was the defence lawyer in this case, to be massively intriguing. It's rare to receive such an intimate account of a murder trial, especially one as convoluted as this. Brian does an excellent job of painting the air of the times and re-telling this story as a journalistic account of true-crime. Brians own role in the trial shows an incredible amount of humanity and awareness specifically for the popular culture of 1988. This Canadian true-crime book is an unexpected delight.

[Randal J · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read! A novel, but as real as the truth can be told. I couldn’t put it down until finished. Well written, in spite of such convoluted events and circumstances. I couldn’t even begin to speculate the trial’s outcome until I read the jury’s final decision. Case closed, the author still leaves the reader to ponder their own conclusions about what really happened, and question the fairness of a justice system that can be so heavily influenced by a person’s economic situation, and the preconceived prejudice and bias of the Courts.

[Danielle Landry · Rating 5 out of 5]

The fascinating true story of a murder and the trial that followed, masterfully written by the criminal lawyer who defended the accused. This book will captivate you from start to finish. Brian Barrie is an extraordinary storyteller who makes you feel as if you are in the story alongside the characters. He has an undeniable charisma in the way that he writes that connects you to the human side of the characters he is illustrating. This is a truly unique read that allows you rare insight into the criminal justice system from the mind of an exception criminal defence lawyer. A must read.

[Grace McKenna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought this was a very well written book. I loved this book and was not able to put it down. The narrative style is enthralling, and the inclusion of the lawyer's perspective during the trial added a unique layer to the story, showcasing creativity unparalleled in my reading experience. The overall message and comments on our justice system was an interesting point of view and something definitely everyone should know/take away. Highly recommended for anyone who enjoys a gripping mystery with layers of complexity.

[H Keep · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first foray into true crime and I was thrilled to find myself eager to keep reading no matter how late the hour. The delicately fictionalized narrative in the first half of the book sets up the stage perfectly for the historical trial in the second half. Anyone curious about the judicial system in Ontario will benefit from this captivating tale of justice, and injustice, in the context of a real and truly heartbreaking chapter in the life of a downtrodden woman trapped in painful circumstance.

[Cynthia Michaud · Rating 5 out of 5]

My book club enjoyed Brian Barrie's creative non-fiction, 'Four Bullets, Four Witnesses, Four Liars' so much that we met twice to discuss it. Part 1 conveys the backstory and develops each character with empathy and understanding while Part 2 takes readers through the murder trial. Barrie's lengthy career as a lawyer gives the reader a vivid view into this fascinating and, at times, unbelievable series of events and human behaviours. We all enjoyed this book so much that we shared it with family members and cannot wait for future books by Brian Barrie.

[Jill Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed everything about this book. In particular Brian Barrie’s writing style, the storyline was clearly laid out and easy to follow. It is a true crime story that took place in an area I am familiar with which made the story come to life as I could easily visualize the various locations. As well, it was personal for this author as he was the defence lawyer in this case and as such he brought so much legal credibility to the story. For a debut novel, Mr. Barrie knocked it out of the park.

[Andrea T · Rating 5 out of 5]

A quite local to me true crime story, with domestic violence as a main theme, piquing my interest before I even opened the (part fiction / part nonfiction) book.


This one could be just as easily viewed as a murder mystery as it could be a critique of the justice system.  The partially fictionalized backstory was very well-written and gave great insight into what day to day life eith an abuser is like.  The nonfiction part covering the arrest, trial, and verdict was equally as fascinating and engrossing, and highlighted issues faced by marginalized folks involved in the justice system.

[Nicole Lajambe · Rating 5 out of 5]

First off, I want to mention that this was a Goodreads win for me.
Secondly, WOW! WOW ! WOW!
This book was amazing.
The story started off about explaining the area which I find it very fascinating and the lives of the people involved. It sucks you in.
As you’re reading, it keeps you going.
I was constantly saying “ok just one more page” and then I would read five more.
It is very well writing and it leads you along like a puppet wanting more.
This is one book I would highly recommend.
Good job on this one.
I will definitely look out for more of his books in the future.
Thank you

[Wally Murray · Rating 5 out of 5]

Although I knew the story in the broad sense and certainly knew the results of the trial, I was more or less riveted by Brian's writing style and his excellently expressed intimate knowledge of the characters, locations, events and legal issues. I got the sense of almost being there. Driven by suspense, I looked forward to opening each new chapter. Congratulations Brian. I await your next publication

[Dan Mersich · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brian Barrie produces a true who-dunnit page turner as seen through the eyes of one of its central characters. Don’t start reading unless enough time has been cleared to finish it in one sitting.
Mae, treated badly by life and facing a murder charge, shows great courage and a kind and gentle spirit through an ordeal described as perhaps only her lawyer could. It’s a satisfying story that moves along briskly and makes the reader want to see what lies around he next corner.

Dan Mersich

[Jo Germann · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book and couldn't put it down once I started. The story is fast paced and keeps your curiosity peaked, wondering what's going to happen next, especially to Mae. Brian Barrie skillfully portrayed Jimmy's character as a complicated one, and one that plays on your emotions throughout the story development. Thank you for writing an absolutely captivating novel. I'd highly recommend this book!

[Nina And · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a fascinating read! Through the many twists and turns of the trial, in which Mr. Barrie was the defence counsel, it was obvious that his distinguished career was exemplified by a deep dedication to justice as well as a position of courtesy, decency and honesty. With the many themes of mental illness, misogyny, poverty and domestic violence, it was riveting that the Canadian Justice system can even further exploit those who are already at risk. Well done Mr. Barrie - an excellent read.

[Douglas Hart · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great read, about a true murder in Grey County, Brian Barrie did a wonderful keeping your interest peaked over the entire novel. The characters give many conflicting statements to the police so you never know if any of facts in the murder were true or false.

But the fact remains the person killed, was quite abusive to everyone involved but with all the facts even today, the abuser seems to be able to skirt the law somehow.

[Peter Galligan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is an absolute page turner! The author, who is a central part of the true story, masterfully navigates you through ambiguity and ever changing twists. Barrie defends one of the three main characters who were at the murder scene, and were all pointing the finger at each other.
I normally don't like 'whodunits' where the book ends and you don't know the perpetrator. This was the exception! A great read.
Pete G.

[Lawrence Cumming · Rating 5 out of 5]

Couldn't put it down. Brilliant! A murder mystery with the added perspective and insight that could only come from an author with a long career as a very skilled and compassionate defense attorney. A must read for all aspiring lawyers. Some insights into a less than perfect justice system, and a gripping story all the more compelling because it actually happened.

[Barrie Friel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just finished this excellent non-fiction novel by author Brian Barrie about a murder committed near Owen Sound, Ontario, in the late 80's. As relevant today as it was then, it's a cleverly written and compelling true story crafted with great care by the insightful defense counsel who tried the case. A genuine page turner, it will leave you guessing to the very end. Highly recommended.