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Children of Darkness and Light: Lori Vallow and Chad Daybell: A Story of Murderous Faith
In this gripping work of true crime, a criminal lawyer takes readers inside the notorious Lori Vallow case and the devastating "doomsday murders."
A blonde beauty queen, missing children, six suspicious deaths, and the twisted Mormon doomsday writings of her fifth husband are only the beginning of a tragic crime saga that gripped Americans and instigated frantic searches all over the country.
It all started when Lori Vallow met Chad Daybell at a doomsday prepper event. Their story grew like a wildfire that creates its own weather, and what happened next will shock even the most experienced true crime reader.
Clinging to and manipulating one another, Lori Vallow and Chad Daybell believed the return of Jesus Christ was imminent and that God had chosen them to lead the 144,000 and usher in the new millennium. When the people closest to them began dying, it became clear they would stop at nothing to be together and fulfill their mission. When the bodies of Lori’s missing children—J.J. and Tylee—were discovered in Chad’s backyard, the strange and complex story of their fundamentalist Mormon beliefs were revealed in all their true horror.
Author Lori Hellis, a retired criminal lawyer, had just moved to Arizona when news of J.J. and Tylee's disappearance broke, and there were reports about these missing children that linked them to a neighboring community. She began to follow the case closely, trying to understand this perfect storm of people and circumstances that culminated in the death of innocents. In Children of Darkness and Light, Hellis digs deep into the investigation, trial, and verdict to craft a haunting narrative that illuminates one of the most confounding crimes in recent memory.
A blonde beauty queen, missing children, six suspicious deaths, and the twisted Mormon doomsday writings of her fifth husband are only the beginning of a tragic crime saga that gripped Americans and instigated frantic searches all over the country.
It all started when Lori Vallow met Chad Daybell at a doomsday prepper event. Their story grew like a wildfire that creates its own weather, and what happened next will shock even the most experienced true crime reader.
Clinging to and manipulating one another, Lori Vallow and Chad Daybell believed the return of Jesus Christ was imminent and that God had chosen them to lead the 144,000 and usher in the new millennium. When the people closest to them began dying, it became clear they would stop at nothing to be together and fulfill their mission. When the bodies of Lori’s missing children—J.J. and Tylee—were discovered in Chad’s backyard, the strange and complex story of their fundamentalist Mormon beliefs were revealed in all their true horror.
Author Lori Hellis, a retired criminal lawyer, had just moved to Arizona when news of J.J. and Tylee's disappearance broke, and there were reports about these missing children that linked them to a neighboring community. She began to follow the case closely, trying to understand this perfect storm of people and circumstances that culminated in the death of innocents. In Children of Darkness and Light, Hellis digs deep into the investigation, trial, and verdict to craft a haunting narrative that illuminates one of the most confounding crimes in recent memory.
319 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 24, 2024
43 people are currently reading
309 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
October 1, 2024
2 "what happens when two evil soulmates meet and explode...." stars !!
I struggled very much with this author's writing and analyses. Very very much. I will explain a bit later but briefly.
This crime story is extremely frightening....two sociopathic narcissists meet and fall in love with lust, money and power. They will stop at nothing and had hopes of being the chosen for a Mormon splinter group in their quest for end of times...in their path lay the murder of his wife, her ex-husband, her brother, her teenage daughter, her adopted little son and a few attempted murders as well....these two not only had very severe yet high functioning personality disorders but were evil to their bloody core
There is also talk of delusional disorder...not sure about that...overvalued ideas for sure...but two more despicable people you could not imagine in your wildest dreams....
The crime story is adequately told...you get a hazy picture of what transpired....
Where the author fails is in her anti-Mormon stance. I wish she had been transparent as to why she feels such hostility towards this group of people. She couches it as education for the layperson but to me what came across was her disdain and disgust for this group of people and their communities...really not acceptable (to me) and this book also needed some sharp editing and a few rewrites....
These two criminal assholes would have caused destruction had they been secular scientists, politicians, hospital administrators, Buddhist acolytes or Church of England...their brand of evil has no bounds and would have occurred no matter what environment they were born into....the issue is that their sum of evil is tenfold when their lives collided So I do not buy the author's cult hypotheses one bit....
I would have preferred the author consulted with a clinicial psychologist, a family therapist and an anthropologist rather than cult experts....(not so relevant in this case)
Anyhow these crimes are horrific and may they both burn....more horrid and evil people you cannot imagine....
May their victims have peace and I do hope their loved ones continue to heal....
Here is the couple....
I struggled very much with this author's writing and analyses. Very very much. I will explain a bit later but briefly.
This crime story is extremely frightening....two sociopathic narcissists meet and fall in love with lust, money and power. They will stop at nothing and had hopes of being the chosen for a Mormon splinter group in their quest for end of times...in their path lay the murder of his wife, her ex-husband, her brother, her teenage daughter, her adopted little son and a few attempted murders as well....these two not only had very severe yet high functioning personality disorders but were evil to their bloody core
There is also talk of delusional disorder...not sure about that...overvalued ideas for sure...but two more despicable people you could not imagine in your wildest dreams....
The crime story is adequately told...you get a hazy picture of what transpired....
Where the author fails is in her anti-Mormon stance. I wish she had been transparent as to why she feels such hostility towards this group of people. She couches it as education for the layperson but to me what came across was her disdain and disgust for this group of people and their communities...really not acceptable (to me) and this book also needed some sharp editing and a few rewrites....
These two criminal assholes would have caused destruction had they been secular scientists, politicians, hospital administrators, Buddhist acolytes or Church of England...their brand of evil has no bounds and would have occurred no matter what environment they were born into....the issue is that their sum of evil is tenfold when their lives collided So I do not buy the author's cult hypotheses one bit....
I would have preferred the author consulted with a clinicial psychologist, a family therapist and an anthropologist rather than cult experts....(not so relevant in this case)
Anyhow these crimes are horrific and may they both burn....more horrid and evil people you cannot imagine....
May their victims have peace and I do hope their loved ones continue to heal....
Here is the couple....
November 24, 2024
If she would've just stuck to the story based on the facts of the case, 5. Instead, she tries to make everything more salacious for cheap play on emotions and weak arguments.
September 30, 2024
Thank you so much to Pegasus Crime and Lori Hellis for my copy of this book. It was PHENOMENAL- so well written and engaging. I knew the Lori Vallow case, but not like this. This true crime story dives into the history of Mormonism and the religious extremism of a certain sect of preppers. Lori Vallow met Chad Daybell at a doomsday prepper event, and it was all downhill from there. What followed were several murders, delusion, and destruction that followed in their wake.
Thoughts: This story was so well written and comprehensive. It gave the background of the Mormon faith, and how religious extremists can take things to a whole new level of delusion. The things Lori and Chad believed and convinced themselves were hard to believe and heartbreaking when they ended in the murder of Lori’s two children and Chad’s wife.
I loved how the author tied in how media effects court cases and trials and the way that our justice system has pitfalls when dealing with popular crimes. This book covered the background, investigation, and court trials with interesting detail and well-written facts. I couldn’t get enough of this story and the way it was laid out made it a breeze to read. 5-stars.
Thoughts: This story was so well written and comprehensive. It gave the background of the Mormon faith, and how religious extremists can take things to a whole new level of delusion. The things Lori and Chad believed and convinced themselves were hard to believe and heartbreaking when they ended in the murder of Lori’s two children and Chad’s wife.
I loved how the author tied in how media effects court cases and trials and the way that our justice system has pitfalls when dealing with popular crimes. This book covered the background, investigation, and court trials with interesting detail and well-written facts. I couldn’t get enough of this story and the way it was laid out made it a breeze to read. 5-stars.
did-not-finish
January 1, 2025Dnf 30% way through. If you are interested in this case check out When the Moon Turns to Bloody by Leah Sottile. Much better writing.
October 2, 2024
3.5 stars. Overall this was a very interesting telling of the Lori Vallow case. There was a lot of repeating, rabbit trails and redundancies but if you’re interested in this case, a good listen!!
Thank you LibroFM and the publisher for the audiobook!!
Thank you LibroFM and the publisher for the audiobook!!
October 23, 2024
Read if you like true crime of a crazy story and crazy relationships, with a lot of thorough religious context to understand the logic of the crimes. Many might be familiar with the recent social media firestorm of the Lori Vallow case, of her missing children, and of her trial. I saw narcissism in her the entire time. Great narrator.
August 25, 2024
✨Audiobook Review✨
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Speed: 2.0x
I’m speechless and absolutely heartbroken.
This audiobook tells the devastating story of the loss of Charles Vallow, Tammy Daybell, Tylee Vallow, and J.J. Vallow, along with the attempted murder of Brandon Boudreaux, all at the hands of Lori Vallow, Alex Cox, and Chad Daybell. Vallow and Daybell were LDS doomsday preppers, convinced it was their duty from God to usher in the new millennium. Vallow and Daybell denied family members information regarding Tylee and J.J.’s disappearance for months until police were able to locate both children’s remains on the Daybell estate. Readers are taken on a bizarre and twisted narrative of Vallow and Daybell’s religious views, the police investigation, and their court trial.
Highlights:
⭐️ Background content. Hellis provided a well-thought-out and detailed background on Mormonism and the LDS religion. I personally appreciated this because I have no knowledge of this religion, and it helped me understand where Vallow and Daybell’s delusions stemmed from. ⭐️ Writing flow. Everything flowed nicely, and it was easy to follow along. In some true crime cases, all the details can get convoluted, and the reader/listener can get lost, but that wasn’t the case here. ⭐️ Neutrality. Hellis was neutral in her writing, as was Reid in her narration. Neither the writer nor the narrator influenced the retelling of the events leading up to the crime or the trial afterward; the facts speak for themselves.
Thank you, NetGalley and Dreamscape Media, for the ARC of this audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
💗 My thoughts, prayers, and condolences go out to the victims, their families, and friends. There is no sentence severe enough for what has been lost
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Speed: 2.0x
I’m speechless and absolutely heartbroken.
This audiobook tells the devastating story of the loss of Charles Vallow, Tammy Daybell, Tylee Vallow, and J.J. Vallow, along with the attempted murder of Brandon Boudreaux, all at the hands of Lori Vallow, Alex Cox, and Chad Daybell. Vallow and Daybell were LDS doomsday preppers, convinced it was their duty from God to usher in the new millennium. Vallow and Daybell denied family members information regarding Tylee and J.J.’s disappearance for months until police were able to locate both children’s remains on the Daybell estate. Readers are taken on a bizarre and twisted narrative of Vallow and Daybell’s religious views, the police investigation, and their court trial.
Highlights:
⭐️ Background content. Hellis provided a well-thought-out and detailed background on Mormonism and the LDS religion. I personally appreciated this because I have no knowledge of this religion, and it helped me understand where Vallow and Daybell’s delusions stemmed from. ⭐️ Writing flow. Everything flowed nicely, and it was easy to follow along. In some true crime cases, all the details can get convoluted, and the reader/listener can get lost, but that wasn’t the case here. ⭐️ Neutrality. Hellis was neutral in her writing, as was Reid in her narration. Neither the writer nor the narrator influenced the retelling of the events leading up to the crime or the trial afterward; the facts speak for themselves.
Thank you, NetGalley and Dreamscape Media, for the ARC of this audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
💗 My thoughts, prayers, and condolences go out to the victims, their families, and friends. There is no sentence severe enough for what has been lost
December 5, 2024
True crime set against the backdrop of religious fanaticism.
This book is about a couple who killed two children and the man’s ex-wife. The couple are both LDS members.
As an Australian I hasn’t heard of these two before so this was a whole information dump in terms of firstly the crimes and secondly the feature of the LDS religion. There was a lot early on about LDS and it’s doctrines which made the first 1/2 of the book very dry and theological.
I would have liked more of the trial and more about the community views and impact - the last few chapters were underwhelming at best.
This book is about a couple who killed two children and the man’s ex-wife. The couple are both LDS members.
As an Australian I hasn’t heard of these two before so this was a whole information dump in terms of firstly the crimes and secondly the feature of the LDS religion. There was a lot early on about LDS and it’s doctrines which made the first 1/2 of the book very dry and theological.
I would have liked more of the trial and more about the community views and impact - the last few chapters were underwhelming at best.
August 30, 2024
Children of Darkness and Light is the true story of the murders of Charles Vallow, Tylee Vallow, J.J. Vallow, and Tammy Daybell. The culprits? Lori Vallow, Alex Cox, and Chad Daybell.
Lori met Chad at a doomsday prepper event. They both were involved in the LDS church and believed they were the chosen ones to lead the 144,000. That was their mission and they would stop at nothing to fulfill it. This book follows the story from before the crimes to the trial.
I appreciated the time and thought the author put into this book. I didn’t follow along with this case as it was happening. You can tell the author put a lot of time into researching and making sure the details were correct.
I also appreciated the background of LDS and the Mormon faith in the beginning. I did not know much about LDS or Mormonism, so this helped me understand better.
I have received an ARC of the audiobook from Netgalley and Dreamscape Media. This has not influenced my review at all. Thank you Netgalley and Dreamscape!
Lori met Chad at a doomsday prepper event. They both were involved in the LDS church and believed they were the chosen ones to lead the 144,000. That was their mission and they would stop at nothing to fulfill it. This book follows the story from before the crimes to the trial.
I appreciated the time and thought the author put into this book. I didn’t follow along with this case as it was happening. You can tell the author put a lot of time into researching and making sure the details were correct.
I also appreciated the background of LDS and the Mormon faith in the beginning. I did not know much about LDS or Mormonism, so this helped me understand better.
I have received an ARC of the audiobook from Netgalley and Dreamscape Media. This has not influenced my review at all. Thank you Netgalley and Dreamscape!
September 9, 2024
Not sure what I just finished reading!
So, although this one had many interesting points, it had MANY more very disturbing ones.
AND, the author seemed to say the same thing over and over and over and over…. To the point where I actually stopped the book, multiple times, to see if it had somehow backtracked…. What’s the point in doing that? I really don’t understand??
🛑🛑 If you don’t know anything about this True Crime Story, please 🛑🛑 Stop. Right. Here... as I’m going to delve loosely into the book here…
I did learn that Lori Vallow and Chad Daybell were basically ‘certifiably’ crazy.
I mean I’m a solid Catholic (Not a Latter Day Saints [LDS] pupil)… And I believe in a lot of things, but…she believes she’s a goddess? And, he’s the next coming of the Lord??? They can SEE darkness and light in people? And demons??
Where were their families in all of this? Did anybody see this as ‘strange’, ‘odd’ or a million other adjectives?? What about the police?
And those kids??? Just helpless young people…
Ok. I’m ranting…sorry. I just don’t understand.
I know, from what I read, that this was very prevalent in their area…even the jury was made up of mostly LDS people… But there’s NO ONE who can help? Set them on the right path??? Or Get Them Help?
Again, I know…it’s like a CULT mindset… I’m just blown away by this.
As for the actual book… as I mentioned, it was very repetitive and just didn’t flow well. I guess because we’re reading about ABC move on to DEF continue for a few hours, and then we’re BACK on ABC and DEF…as if it were never Fully Discussed Before… But then again, the author was a lawyer before, so maybe this is the norm for them??
I read a lot. I generally don’t feel the need to repeat things constantly in order to absorb them, but maybe I’m in the minority? Not sure. But, due to these oddities, my rating is somewhat low. 😕
Thanks to #NetGalley and #DreamscapeMedia for an ARC of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
**** Release date is set for 9/24/24. ****
3 ⭐️⭐️⭐️ for me.
#ChildrenOfDarknessAndLight by #LoriHells and narrated by #AimeeReid.
Feel free to like, follow and friend me on: Goodreads,
Insta @ #BookReviews_with_emsr and/or
My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine.
Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, and click ‘LIKE’ below… And, let me know YOUR thoughts if you read it!! 📚⭐️
So, although this one had many interesting points, it had MANY more very disturbing ones.
AND, the author seemed to say the same thing over and over and over and over…. To the point where I actually stopped the book, multiple times, to see if it had somehow backtracked…. What’s the point in doing that? I really don’t understand??
🛑🛑 If you don’t know anything about this True Crime Story, please 🛑🛑 Stop. Right. Here... as I’m going to delve loosely into the book here…
I did learn that Lori Vallow and Chad Daybell were basically ‘certifiably’ crazy.
I mean I’m a solid Catholic (Not a Latter Day Saints [LDS] pupil)… And I believe in a lot of things, but…she believes she’s a goddess? And, he’s the next coming of the Lord??? They can SEE darkness and light in people? And demons??
Where were their families in all of this? Did anybody see this as ‘strange’, ‘odd’ or a million other adjectives?? What about the police?
And those kids??? Just helpless young people…
Ok. I’m ranting…sorry. I just don’t understand.
I know, from what I read, that this was very prevalent in their area…even the jury was made up of mostly LDS people… But there’s NO ONE who can help? Set them on the right path??? Or Get Them Help?
Again, I know…it’s like a CULT mindset… I’m just blown away by this.
As for the actual book… as I mentioned, it was very repetitive and just didn’t flow well. I guess because we’re reading about ABC move on to DEF continue for a few hours, and then we’re BACK on ABC and DEF…as if it were never Fully Discussed Before… But then again, the author was a lawyer before, so maybe this is the norm for them??
I read a lot. I generally don’t feel the need to repeat things constantly in order to absorb them, but maybe I’m in the minority? Not sure. But, due to these oddities, my rating is somewhat low. 😕
Thanks to #NetGalley and #DreamscapeMedia for an ARC of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
**** Release date is set for 9/24/24. ****
3 ⭐️⭐️⭐️ for me.
#ChildrenOfDarknessAndLight by #LoriHells and narrated by #AimeeReid.
Feel free to like, follow and friend me on: Goodreads,
Insta @ #BookReviews_with_emsr and/or
My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine.
Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, and click ‘LIKE’ below… And, let me know YOUR thoughts if you read it!! 📚⭐️
October 23, 2024
*****I received this free audiobook from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
This true crime of the children and a wife in the Mormon community was interesting. I did feel it repeated some of the information more than it needed to. It was definitely a twisted set of murders as they claimed it was for religious purposes.
This true crime of the children and a wife in the Mormon community was interesting. I did feel it repeated some of the information more than it needed to. It was definitely a twisted set of murders as they claimed it was for religious purposes.
October 23, 2024
This was deeply researched but the writing style felt along the lines of a book report. I should have DNF’d this but… here we are.
TYSM Libro.FM for the gifted ALC of this title. The narrator and voice editing was great.
TYSM Libro.FM for the gifted ALC of this title. The narrator and voice editing was great.
May 7, 2025
3.8 good but less about Lori and more about the negative history and truth bombs of the lds church
September 24, 2024
I received an advanced copy of the book.
As someone who has followed the Lori Vallow and Chad Daybell case from the start and watched both trials, this book was exactly what I was looking for—an unbiased, factual, and deeply insightful exploration of this tragic case. What fascinates me about true crime is the legal side - courtroom strategies to the interpretation of evidence, law, and the rights guaranteed to defendants given to them in the Constitution. Lori Hellis’ legal expertise shines through, as she provides a clear and straightforward analysis without sensationalism, which is a refreshing change given the emotional nature of the crimes.
Another thing I appreciated is Hellis' extensive research into the history of the LDS church. As someone who is not a member and unfamiliar with LDS culture, I found her exploration of its influence on the case extremely valuable. Hellis skillfully explains how certain beliefs and practices within this culture may have contributed to the mindset and motivations behind these horrific events, offering much-needed context. Her ability to blend legal analysis with well-researched cultural and psychological factors adds depth to the story.
Whether you’re familiar with the case or learning about it for the first time, Children of Darkness and Light is a must-read for anyone seeking a comprehensive understanding of one of the most shocking crimes in recent history.
As someone who has followed the Lori Vallow and Chad Daybell case from the start and watched both trials, this book was exactly what I was looking for—an unbiased, factual, and deeply insightful exploration of this tragic case. What fascinates me about true crime is the legal side - courtroom strategies to the interpretation of evidence, law, and the rights guaranteed to defendants given to them in the Constitution. Lori Hellis’ legal expertise shines through, as she provides a clear and straightforward analysis without sensationalism, which is a refreshing change given the emotional nature of the crimes.
Another thing I appreciated is Hellis' extensive research into the history of the LDS church. As someone who is not a member and unfamiliar with LDS culture, I found her exploration of its influence on the case extremely valuable. Hellis skillfully explains how certain beliefs and practices within this culture may have contributed to the mindset and motivations behind these horrific events, offering much-needed context. Her ability to blend legal analysis with well-researched cultural and psychological factors adds depth to the story.
Whether you’re familiar with the case or learning about it for the first time, Children of Darkness and Light is a must-read for anyone seeking a comprehensive understanding of one of the most shocking crimes in recent history.
November 8, 2024
This is a super information packed book, so make sure you are in the mind set to really pay attention. I listened to this book, which I think really helped me absorb more of the dryer fact chapters. It’s heavy with LDS religious references, so brace yourself.
I knew a good amount of the Lori Vallow & Chad Daybell story, so I was really just looking for a deeper understanding of the why. If you watch the true crime doc, or followed the trial you get pretty much the whole idea of what happened. Together, Lori & Chad thought they would be ushering the end of days, and didn’t want kids along for the ride. That’s the real condensed version. Unfortunately, the children weren’t the only victims, and non of it makes sense.
This book, most of the first half of it, explains the religious beliefs of Lori and Chad by telling the story of the LDS church from the beginning. It then dives into spinoff beliefs, exaggerated interpretations, and false prophets. And then there is Chad Daybell. He fueled Lori’s religious delusions and together they were on a path to destruction. But it was all in the name of lightness. Lori still stands by this, today.
I still have a hard time believing they didn’t kill their spouses and the children just so they could be together. I think they are using their religion as an excuse. But this book does make you question that opinion, a lot. It’s just so unbelievable, and heartbreaking. I definitely recommend this if you need more answers to this case.
I knew a good amount of the Lori Vallow & Chad Daybell story, so I was really just looking for a deeper understanding of the why. If you watch the true crime doc, or followed the trial you get pretty much the whole idea of what happened. Together, Lori & Chad thought they would be ushering the end of days, and didn’t want kids along for the ride. That’s the real condensed version. Unfortunately, the children weren’t the only victims, and non of it makes sense.
This book, most of the first half of it, explains the religious beliefs of Lori and Chad by telling the story of the LDS church from the beginning. It then dives into spinoff beliefs, exaggerated interpretations, and false prophets. And then there is Chad Daybell. He fueled Lori’s religious delusions and together they were on a path to destruction. But it was all in the name of lightness. Lori still stands by this, today.
I still have a hard time believing they didn’t kill their spouses and the children just so they could be together. I think they are using their religion as an excuse. But this book does make you question that opinion, a lot. It’s just so unbelievable, and heartbreaking. I definitely recommend this if you need more answers to this case.
September 29, 2024
I heard about this book on NetGalley and then saw author Lori Hellis had an event at Powell’s. As a native Idahoan and a former Religious Studies major in college, the content of this book piqued my interest. I was lucky to get an ARC of the audiobook for review. The horrific murders of 16yo Tylee Ryan and 7yo Joshua “JJ” Vallow felt very close to home when their bodies were found in Rexburg, Idaho. As the bizarre circumstances surrounding their deaths unfolded, it seemed impossible to believe their own mother (and her latest husband) not only committed these barbaric crimes but justified them as religious acts. This book takes a deep dive into Lori Vallow Daybell, her crimes, her relationship with Chad Daybell, and their fringe beliefs in fundamental LDS doctrine. This book will scratch the itch of anyone interested in learning more about what transpired.
I did not expect the depth of criticism this book lodged at the Mormon church and the backstory of the LDS faith. Personally, I found this an interesting surprise (as I had studied LDS fundamentalism in college), however, the author’s condemnation of the cultish faith felt a bit too personal or inflammatory. Her blanket rebuke of all LDS faith tenets felt like throwing the baby out with the bathwater, giving hardly any credit to the good that can come out of the faith, which might offer a more tempered, objective perspective for the reader to interpret. I have a lot to say about this and could go on and on, but I think this drums up good fodder for discussion, albeit a feisty one. Nonetheless, I would tweak the author’s strong voice to come across with less bias (though, admittedly, I do agree with many of her points and conclusions).
Finally, I would say the book felt very repetitive at times and could have benefited from a bit tighter editing. The audiobook narration was solid and overall I appreciated this nonfiction true crime deviation from my typical women’s fiction and romcom fare.
I did not expect the depth of criticism this book lodged at the Mormon church and the backstory of the LDS faith. Personally, I found this an interesting surprise (as I had studied LDS fundamentalism in college), however, the author’s condemnation of the cultish faith felt a bit too personal or inflammatory. Her blanket rebuke of all LDS faith tenets felt like throwing the baby out with the bathwater, giving hardly any credit to the good that can come out of the faith, which might offer a more tempered, objective perspective for the reader to interpret. I have a lot to say about this and could go on and on, but I think this drums up good fodder for discussion, albeit a feisty one. Nonetheless, I would tweak the author’s strong voice to come across with less bias (though, admittedly, I do agree with many of her points and conclusions).
Finally, I would say the book felt very repetitive at times and could have benefited from a bit tighter editing. The audiobook narration was solid and overall I appreciated this nonfiction true crime deviation from my typical women’s fiction and romcom fare.
November 25, 2024
I was so torn on this book. On one hand it gave I think it gave accurate information about the trial and actions of these two murders. On the other hand, in trying to describe the religious fanatics they were, very biases and untrue statements regarding the church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints were made. the church would not approve of this kind of extreme behavior.
Chad and Lori are delusional and manipulative people who did all the things they were accused of. They and others who embrace these fringe ideas presented in this book can be very dangerous.
Chad and Lori are delusional and manipulative people who did all the things they were accused of. They and others who embrace these fringe ideas presented in this book can be very dangerous.
September 12, 2024
Wow. Just wow, on so many levels.
Disclosure: I knew nothing about the Vallow-Daybell murders prior to reading this book. Also, I kind of have a beef with the LDS faith. (LSS, little female missionaries used to try and recruit my partner. On my watch.)
First, what a well-designed book. In this case, you absolutely cannot separate the acts from the religion. Lori Hellis starts the book with an overview of LDS beliefs and makes sure to intersperse new information throughout the text as needed. This is necessary. For example, go to YouTube and look up a video explaining the basics of the LDS faith. You won't hear much of anything that would explain Lori Vallow's and Chad Daybell's beliefs and behaviors. Bizarrely enough, when viewed in its full religious context, their acts make a kind of sense.
Speaking of that full religious context, I follow the rule "an it harm none, do what thou wilt.” I ask for tolerance so I try to be tolerant of others. Even before people started turning up dead, I was pretty sure that Lori, Chad, and their sundry friends/followers were... I believe the current DSM V approved diagnosis is "cuckoo for Cocoa Puffs." O.k., that's a little unfair, but it also makes me nervous to think about all of these people running around, seemingly normal and functioning in the real world. Like the Cheshire Cat, I recognize that we're all mad here. Unlike this crowd, I don't believe that I was Jesus's aunt in a past life and that I have the power to call storms to destroy people I don't like. I agree with Lori Hellis's thesis that the Vallow-Daybell crowd could be considered a proto-cult. I now realize that their rise is likely not an isolated incident.
Another aspect of Children of Darkness and Light: Lori Vallow and Chad Daybell: A Story of Murderous Faith I appreciated was how skillfully Lori Hellis explained the legal aspects of the cases. As someone with an extensive legal background, it usually bores me when a book does this. I know that your average reader doesn't understand, so these sections are necessary. Lori Hellis's explanations of the legal aspects had me nodding my head along not rolling my eyes. Another score for the author!
I really don't want to be too flippant. I would also like to go on the record that I have known LDS people throughout my life that I am pretty sure are as sane as the next guy. But, in this case, at least four people were dead directly because of Lori Vallow's and Chad Daybell's beliefs and behaviors. A fifth death, Lori's brother Alex Cox's, had pretty suspicious timing. A sixth person, Lori's third husband, was killed well before Lori ever met Chad, but there are enough parallels between Joseph Anthony Ryan Jr.'s shooting and Charles Vallow's that I think you have to see Ryan's shooting as a kind of a precursor, a trial run. A sixth person, Lori's former nephew-in-law, was shot at. This is all pretty well the exact opposite of "an it harm none."
Aimee Reid's narration was perfectly acceptable. She was easy to follow. That's fine; for a work like this you don't want to do different voices for different characters. You just need to be able to read clearly in an engaging tone.
In sum, I found this book well written, engaging, and informative. It will stay with me for a long, long time. I would highly recommend it to anyone not already familiar with the case, people interested in the LDS faith, or those who might know some of the particulars of the case but not understand their true religious context.
I would like to thank Dreamscape Media for allowing me to experience this NetGalley audiobook.
Disclosure: I knew nothing about the Vallow-Daybell murders prior to reading this book. Also, I kind of have a beef with the LDS faith. (LSS, little female missionaries used to try and recruit my partner. On my watch.)
First, what a well-designed book. In this case, you absolutely cannot separate the acts from the religion. Lori Hellis starts the book with an overview of LDS beliefs and makes sure to intersperse new information throughout the text as needed. This is necessary. For example, go to YouTube and look up a video explaining the basics of the LDS faith. You won't hear much of anything that would explain Lori Vallow's and Chad Daybell's beliefs and behaviors. Bizarrely enough, when viewed in its full religious context, their acts make a kind of sense.
Speaking of that full religious context, I follow the rule "an it harm none, do what thou wilt.” I ask for tolerance so I try to be tolerant of others. Even before people started turning up dead, I was pretty sure that Lori, Chad, and their sundry friends/followers were... I believe the current DSM V approved diagnosis is "cuckoo for Cocoa Puffs." O.k., that's a little unfair, but it also makes me nervous to think about all of these people running around, seemingly normal and functioning in the real world. Like the Cheshire Cat, I recognize that we're all mad here. Unlike this crowd, I don't believe that I was Jesus's aunt in a past life and that I have the power to call storms to destroy people I don't like. I agree with Lori Hellis's thesis that the Vallow-Daybell crowd could be considered a proto-cult. I now realize that their rise is likely not an isolated incident.
Another aspect of Children of Darkness and Light: Lori Vallow and Chad Daybell: A Story of Murderous Faith I appreciated was how skillfully Lori Hellis explained the legal aspects of the cases. As someone with an extensive legal background, it usually bores me when a book does this. I know that your average reader doesn't understand, so these sections are necessary. Lori Hellis's explanations of the legal aspects had me nodding my head along not rolling my eyes. Another score for the author!
I really don't want to be too flippant. I would also like to go on the record that I have known LDS people throughout my life that I am pretty sure are as sane as the next guy. But, in this case, at least four people were dead directly because of Lori Vallow's and Chad Daybell's beliefs and behaviors. A fifth death, Lori's brother Alex Cox's, had pretty suspicious timing. A sixth person, Lori's third husband, was killed well before Lori ever met Chad, but there are enough parallels between Joseph Anthony Ryan Jr.'s shooting and Charles Vallow's that I think you have to see Ryan's shooting as a kind of a precursor, a trial run. A sixth person, Lori's former nephew-in-law, was shot at. This is all pretty well the exact opposite of "an it harm none."
Aimee Reid's narration was perfectly acceptable. She was easy to follow. That's fine; for a work like this you don't want to do different voices for different characters. You just need to be able to read clearly in an engaging tone.
In sum, I found this book well written, engaging, and informative. It will stay with me for a long, long time. I would highly recommend it to anyone not already familiar with the case, people interested in the LDS faith, or those who might know some of the particulars of the case but not understand their true religious context.
I would like to thank Dreamscape Media for allowing me to experience this NetGalley audiobook.
December 30, 2024
This is a review where I could go very long. I will try to stifle, fully understanding many of the 2 star ratings and even more so those of 3 stars. It has wide flaws, especially in the off-tangent information of lengths. Somewhere between 50 to 60 pages at points of nothing but Mormon dogma and Temple level materials depth information. It's a religion that the author has no limits in questioning for how such modern "evolving" proceeded. Good for her. Many will object to her prejudice. I don't. Does she disdain some practices and states the reality of the observations of its operations. Oh yes. Does that hold bias? To a certain extent that is author explained and justified. So I disagree with many reviewers here. Her chapters on cult behaviors is adequate and informative also. Especially for those that cause bodily harm and are "big man" dictator stricture run- with the "progressive" ideas of constant evolving to a "better". Or a planned reaction to ends of days or some traumatic prophetic event. Jim Jones, or Moonie styles per se. But many more examples are explained and recorded here too; history given by author at length. The book is overlong and not organized well. Except for the after COVID portions, the sequences are difficult to comprehend in association with each other at times.
The case is told in a 2 to 3 star level of inside/out and round about prose. Not always clear writing either. Some repetition, but not entirely chronological. As if it were happening now or if the police were just starting the answers to missing persons calls. So at certain times in late 2019, you have scores of dozens knowing one thing or another about Lori, Chad, their families etc. And the reader is also left in voids and skips to "what/ where"? But very much like reality of operations for those not in the know as they look back- nothing is quite clear at all about any of the when. Then you get the reality revealed and physical proofs in the last quarter of the book.
Horrendous! IMHO, any God/religion which is structured / based/ requires murder is not religion. Most especially if it is as a prerequisite to reach a higher point of salvation.
Lori is absolutely insane and was for years. She was also beautiful, outgoing, expansively charismatic and for most (not all) inspired constant fun. And also evasive (mobile/moving away/ coming back long distances) and deadly.
Quite awhile ago I saw TV and print versions of what happened in all these Idaho, Utah, Louisiana, Hawaii locations. You did NOT get the real gist as you did in this book in any of those methods I saw. Although you did get photos. You don't get a one here.
Overall with all its faults, I still think this superbly posited both Chad, Lori and the all their followers (her brother/ family cohorts) to a near 5 star level of nuance of mindset and context. Thought processes, tech use, cognition for action or movement etc. were done superbly for this genre of non-fiction true crime. Many fail in this category of print; they don't dive INSIDE the perpetrators as this did.
It taught me too. Having an old friend in my youth that died decades ago who was Mormon and devout- I now understand some of the particulars of her self-image for the 1st time. It is not a religion I would at all call Christian.
This book contains primarily the title- but it is MORE than that too. Much more. Most readers will balk at all the Latter Day Saints' scripture and Temple world material. Many dozens of pages to the history and operations of that entity in this location. I rounded it to 4 star because the history and base operating principles of the Mormon practice needed that many pages to understand this whole.
The case is told in a 2 to 3 star level of inside/out and round about prose. Not always clear writing either. Some repetition, but not entirely chronological. As if it were happening now or if the police were just starting the answers to missing persons calls. So at certain times in late 2019, you have scores of dozens knowing one thing or another about Lori, Chad, their families etc. And the reader is also left in voids and skips to "what/ where"? But very much like reality of operations for those not in the know as they look back- nothing is quite clear at all about any of the when. Then you get the reality revealed and physical proofs in the last quarter of the book.
Horrendous! IMHO, any God/religion which is structured / based/ requires murder is not religion. Most especially if it is as a prerequisite to reach a higher point of salvation.
Lori is absolutely insane and was for years. She was also beautiful, outgoing, expansively charismatic and for most (not all) inspired constant fun. And also evasive (mobile/moving away/ coming back long distances) and deadly.
Quite awhile ago I saw TV and print versions of what happened in all these Idaho, Utah, Louisiana, Hawaii locations. You did NOT get the real gist as you did in this book in any of those methods I saw. Although you did get photos. You don't get a one here.
Overall with all its faults, I still think this superbly posited both Chad, Lori and the all their followers (her brother/ family cohorts) to a near 5 star level of nuance of mindset and context. Thought processes, tech use, cognition for action or movement etc. were done superbly for this genre of non-fiction true crime. Many fail in this category of print; they don't dive INSIDE the perpetrators as this did.
It taught me too. Having an old friend in my youth that died decades ago who was Mormon and devout- I now understand some of the particulars of her self-image for the 1st time. It is not a religion I would at all call Christian.
This book contains primarily the title- but it is MORE than that too. Much more. Most readers will balk at all the Latter Day Saints' scripture and Temple world material. Many dozens of pages to the history and operations of that entity in this location. I rounded it to 4 star because the history and base operating principles of the Mormon practice needed that many pages to understand this whole.
August 7, 2024
As I begin this review, I should be clear that I have followed this case since the very beginning so I probably know more about this case than most casual True Crime readers. I should also mention up front that I'm an active member of the mainstream LDS Church.
This book was very comprehensive and pretty well written but it didn't include a lot of brand new information that I didn't already know. I think for someone who isn't as familiar with the details may have a different experience.
But I also fee it is important to say this too. I am not sure what the author's issue is with the mainstream LDS Church, but it is very clear she somehow blames Lori and Chad's bad deeds on the church or has some other reason for disliking the religion. The author's tone feels overly critical and skeptical which I guess is fine since they aren't her religious beliefs. But it doesn't feel like she presents a very balanced view of the religion giving believers as much benefit of the doubt as she gives to critics. Throughout the book, it seemed like random references about the church and Joseph Smith are shoe-horned in just to find another way to take a swipe at the religion.
To be clear, this book is not meant to be a history of the LDS Church and, of course, context on the history of the religion is very important to understand some of this case. Some of what she brings up is very germane to the topic of discussion. But a lot of the criticism of the religion feels unfair and colored by a need to prove her thesis that the mainstream LDS Church by being a high demand religion with some unique beliefs caused Chad and Lori to murder and manipulate...which is absolutely not accurate. Having studied this case extensively and having even attended a couple of days of the trial, I can very confidently say that Chad and Lori were master manipulators who could see a common religious tradition as a very easy way to manipulate people. Their religion wasn't the cause of their bad deeds; it was a tool.
There was even a section where it sounds like the author is asserting the claim that the mainstream LDS is a cult similar to Heaven's Gate...which is actually pretty offensive.
Anyway in summary, with the exception of quite a few small factual errors about the LDS Church (ex: temples are not the same thing as the meethouses/church buildings we attend on Sundays, saying that the church discourages us from talking to people outside the faith-not true, or that we are discouraged from asking questions about our own religion-also 100% not true and I could provide multiple citations to prove otherwise on all these claims), the facts of the actual Chad and Lori case are accurate, and pretty comprehensive. I also appreciated the legal analysis the author provided about some of the complexities of this case.
This is a good book for true crime fans and anyone wanting to get more familiar with the specifics of the case.
This book was very comprehensive and pretty well written but it didn't include a lot of brand new information that I didn't already know. I think for someone who isn't as familiar with the details may have a different experience.
But I also fee it is important to say this too. I am not sure what the author's issue is with the mainstream LDS Church, but it is very clear she somehow blames Lori and Chad's bad deeds on the church or has some other reason for disliking the religion. The author's tone feels overly critical and skeptical which I guess is fine since they aren't her religious beliefs. But it doesn't feel like she presents a very balanced view of the religion giving believers as much benefit of the doubt as she gives to critics. Throughout the book, it seemed like random references about the church and Joseph Smith are shoe-horned in just to find another way to take a swipe at the religion.
To be clear, this book is not meant to be a history of the LDS Church and, of course, context on the history of the religion is very important to understand some of this case. Some of what she brings up is very germane to the topic of discussion. But a lot of the criticism of the religion feels unfair and colored by a need to prove her thesis that the mainstream LDS Church by being a high demand religion with some unique beliefs caused Chad and Lori to murder and manipulate...which is absolutely not accurate. Having studied this case extensively and having even attended a couple of days of the trial, I can very confidently say that Chad and Lori were master manipulators who could see a common religious tradition as a very easy way to manipulate people. Their religion wasn't the cause of their bad deeds; it was a tool.
There was even a section where it sounds like the author is asserting the claim that the mainstream LDS is a cult similar to Heaven's Gate...which is actually pretty offensive.
Anyway in summary, with the exception of quite a few small factual errors about the LDS Church (ex: temples are not the same thing as the meethouses/church buildings we attend on Sundays, saying that the church discourages us from talking to people outside the faith-not true, or that we are discouraged from asking questions about our own religion-also 100% not true and I could provide multiple citations to prove otherwise on all these claims), the facts of the actual Chad and Lori case are accurate, and pretty comprehensive. I also appreciated the legal analysis the author provided about some of the complexities of this case.
This is a good book for true crime fans and anyone wanting to get more familiar with the specifics of the case.
July 16, 2024
As a grandmother who found the Vallow Daybell murders deeply troubling, I struggled to comprehend the facts as they unfolded. Lori Hellis's Children of Darkness and Light provides a much-needed clarity, unraveling this perplexing case in a way that helps make sense of the chaos.
Hellis, with her background as a defense attorney, begins by grounding the story in the religious beliefs of both Lori Vallow and Chad Daybell. These extreme views played a significant role in the events that transpired, and understanding this context is crucial. Her ability to outline the timeline of the case highlights how these beliefs influenced their actions in ways that were hard to grasp at first.
To gain firsthand insight, Hellis moved to the Boise area before and during the trials, attending them in person while writing the book. This dedication brings authenticity to her narrative and allows her to present the facts with a level of detail that I found reassuring.
The book addresses the heartbreaking disappearance of two children, casting a shadow over Vallow, who was once seen as a devoted mother. I remember the anguish of their grandparents, who even created billboards pleading for information about their missing grandchildren. Their desperation only added to the tragedy.
As the case took darker turns with the deaths of spouses and others, it revealed a confusing web of deceit and malice disguised as religious conviction. Hellis skillfully navigates this complicated narrative, which often felt like something out of a poorly written movie, with characters adopting multiple identities and terms like "zombies" surfacing alongside references to Jesus. Hellis's clear explanations helped me understand these surreal elements better.
What I appreciated most about Children of Darkness and Light is Hellis's straightforward approach. She makes sense of the seemingly senseless actions that led to the convictions of individuals who once appeared upright. Her meticulous research and clear storytelling are firmly anchored in factual information, shedding light on the complexities of this case without sensationalism.
For anyone trying to wrap their head around this troubling situation, Children of Darkness and Light is an essential read. Lori Hellis's work underscores the importance of presenting information anchored in facts, helping readers like me navigate the complexities of such distressing events.
Hellis, with her background as a defense attorney, begins by grounding the story in the religious beliefs of both Lori Vallow and Chad Daybell. These extreme views played a significant role in the events that transpired, and understanding this context is crucial. Her ability to outline the timeline of the case highlights how these beliefs influenced their actions in ways that were hard to grasp at first.
To gain firsthand insight, Hellis moved to the Boise area before and during the trials, attending them in person while writing the book. This dedication brings authenticity to her narrative and allows her to present the facts with a level of detail that I found reassuring.
The book addresses the heartbreaking disappearance of two children, casting a shadow over Vallow, who was once seen as a devoted mother. I remember the anguish of their grandparents, who even created billboards pleading for information about their missing grandchildren. Their desperation only added to the tragedy.
As the case took darker turns with the deaths of spouses and others, it revealed a confusing web of deceit and malice disguised as religious conviction. Hellis skillfully navigates this complicated narrative, which often felt like something out of a poorly written movie, with characters adopting multiple identities and terms like "zombies" surfacing alongside references to Jesus. Hellis's clear explanations helped me understand these surreal elements better.
What I appreciated most about Children of Darkness and Light is Hellis's straightforward approach. She makes sense of the seemingly senseless actions that led to the convictions of individuals who once appeared upright. Her meticulous research and clear storytelling are firmly anchored in factual information, shedding light on the complexities of this case without sensationalism.
For anyone trying to wrap their head around this troubling situation, Children of Darkness and Light is an essential read. Lori Hellis's work underscores the importance of presenting information anchored in facts, helping readers like me navigate the complexities of such distressing events.
September 24, 2024
Solid accounting of a tragic series of events
Like many others, I followed the series of events stemming from the disappearance of Lori Vallow’s children Tylee Ryan and JJ Vallow in real time, based on news reports beginning in late 2019. How did this family get to the point in 2020 where both children were dead and their mother and her husband were arrested for their murder?
Author Lori Hellis sets the stage at the start of the book to explain how Chad Daybell and Lori Vallow came together in a collision course of greed, fanatacism, and hubris under the guise of religion to travel down a deadly road that ended with murder. Even if a short but thorough dive into the backstory of the Mormon church isn’t your thing, Hellis does a fantastic job of succintly (and entertainingly) setting out how this particular sect, from its very beginnings, was fertile ground for the events that unfolded and how its “elasticity of doctrine” fueled the rise of Chad and Lori’s acts.
Hellis paints a well-rounded picture of a Lori as a girl with many opportunities and many influences. She touches on the dichotomy of Lori and her family’s willingness to adhere strongly to a rule driven religion but at the same time spurn the law, the government, and any perceived authority that tells them they cannot do whatever they want. The rules, it seems, don’t apply to them. Both Chad and Lori consistently flouted the rules of the LDS church when it served their purposes, as did many of their friends and most of Lori’s family. Of course, the book also touches on the dichotomy (and hypocrisy) of the LDS church itself as well as the flaws of the police and mental health systems in Arizona where Lori’s fourth husband tried to get help for Lori and was killed for his efforts.
More questions than answers exist surrounding the murder of Charles Vallow, including who knew what and when, why the police didn’t take appropriate action at the time, and how Lori and her brother Alex were allowed to leave the state. Hellis draws attention to the fact that Tylee, who was, if not a witness to the actual murder, at least in the vicinity of the act and an integral part of the play, was herself killed several weeks later. Was it because of what she knew about Charles’s murder? And less than three months after Charles’s murder, the attempted murder of Brandon (Lori’s niece’s estranged husband who was conveniently insured for millions of dollars) by Alex, using Tylee’s jeep, occurred. Tylee herself hadn’t been seen or heard from in at least two to three weeks at that point. The police were still investigating Charle’s death and yet here was another incident involving many of the same people. The Idaho coronor’s failings in regards to Tammy Daybell’s suspicious death and Chad’s obvious lies regarding that death are touched upon.
Hellis’s thorough research includes recounted conversations from third parties, text messages between Chad and Lori and other writings, and you can see the outside evidence of Lori’s delusions. Lori herself did not leave behind a diary so we can only infer what was actually going on inside her head. She was declared incompetent for a time before her 2023 trial but one wonders why and how she escaped the mental health system for so long.
Unfortunately, the series of events, people, and crimes that make up the Daybell-Vallow cases are so vast that it can be hard to do justice to all of the information. Hellis’s organizational style is excellent and she does her best to walk the line between covering all the events and getting bogged down in all of the details as she sets up the timeline. The sad reality is that one book cannot cover in depth everything that this case unearthed and a few things necessarily have to take a back seat — things such as Lori’s competency, courtroom proceedings around the death penalty and discovery, the use of social media by people connected to the case, and even the fact that the author herself was ejected from the courtroom all could make up another book entirely.
What the book does not and cannot do is pinpoint a singular moment that put either Lori or Chad on the path that ended with them as convicted murderers. Both of them made a long series of choices, rooted in their own personal and religious extremism, their pridefulness, and their selfishness. The people around them were either unwilling or unable to stop them. Above all, this book should serve as a warning of how far extremists can and will go.
Like many others, I followed the series of events stemming from the disappearance of Lori Vallow’s children Tylee Ryan and JJ Vallow in real time, based on news reports beginning in late 2019. How did this family get to the point in 2020 where both children were dead and their mother and her husband were arrested for their murder?
Author Lori Hellis sets the stage at the start of the book to explain how Chad Daybell and Lori Vallow came together in a collision course of greed, fanatacism, and hubris under the guise of religion to travel down a deadly road that ended with murder. Even if a short but thorough dive into the backstory of the Mormon church isn’t your thing, Hellis does a fantastic job of succintly (and entertainingly) setting out how this particular sect, from its very beginnings, was fertile ground for the events that unfolded and how its “elasticity of doctrine” fueled the rise of Chad and Lori’s acts.
Hellis paints a well-rounded picture of a Lori as a girl with many opportunities and many influences. She touches on the dichotomy of Lori and her family’s willingness to adhere strongly to a rule driven religion but at the same time spurn the law, the government, and any perceived authority that tells them they cannot do whatever they want. The rules, it seems, don’t apply to them. Both Chad and Lori consistently flouted the rules of the LDS church when it served their purposes, as did many of their friends and most of Lori’s family. Of course, the book also touches on the dichotomy (and hypocrisy) of the LDS church itself as well as the flaws of the police and mental health systems in Arizona where Lori’s fourth husband tried to get help for Lori and was killed for his efforts.
More questions than answers exist surrounding the murder of Charles Vallow, including who knew what and when, why the police didn’t take appropriate action at the time, and how Lori and her brother Alex were allowed to leave the state. Hellis draws attention to the fact that Tylee, who was, if not a witness to the actual murder, at least in the vicinity of the act and an integral part of the play, was herself killed several weeks later. Was it because of what she knew about Charles’s murder? And less than three months after Charles’s murder, the attempted murder of Brandon (Lori’s niece’s estranged husband who was conveniently insured for millions of dollars) by Alex, using Tylee’s jeep, occurred. Tylee herself hadn’t been seen or heard from in at least two to three weeks at that point. The police were still investigating Charle’s death and yet here was another incident involving many of the same people. The Idaho coronor’s failings in regards to Tammy Daybell’s suspicious death and Chad’s obvious lies regarding that death are touched upon.
Hellis’s thorough research includes recounted conversations from third parties, text messages between Chad and Lori and other writings, and you can see the outside evidence of Lori’s delusions. Lori herself did not leave behind a diary so we can only infer what was actually going on inside her head. She was declared incompetent for a time before her 2023 trial but one wonders why and how she escaped the mental health system for so long.
Unfortunately, the series of events, people, and crimes that make up the Daybell-Vallow cases are so vast that it can be hard to do justice to all of the information. Hellis’s organizational style is excellent and she does her best to walk the line between covering all the events and getting bogged down in all of the details as she sets up the timeline. The sad reality is that one book cannot cover in depth everything that this case unearthed and a few things necessarily have to take a back seat — things such as Lori’s competency, courtroom proceedings around the death penalty and discovery, the use of social media by people connected to the case, and even the fact that the author herself was ejected from the courtroom all could make up another book entirely.
What the book does not and cannot do is pinpoint a singular moment that put either Lori or Chad on the path that ended with them as convicted murderers. Both of them made a long series of choices, rooted in their own personal and religious extremism, their pridefulness, and their selfishness. The people around them were either unwilling or unable to stop them. Above all, this book should serve as a warning of how far extremists can and will go.
October 3, 2024
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC in audiobook format.
Children of Darkness and Light: Lori Vallow, Chad Daybell and the Story of a Murderous Faith by Lori Hellis, narrated by Aimee Reid, is a gripping and meticulously researched true crime audiobook that delves into one of the most disturbing and complex cases in recent history. This audiobook offers a comprehensive examination of the tragic events surrounding Lori Vallow and Chad Daybell, whose apocalyptic beliefs led to a series of shocking murders.
Lori Hellis, a retired criminal lawyer, brings her legal expertise and investigative skills to the forefront, providing a detailed account of the case from its inception to the final verdict. Her narrative is both thorough and engaging, shedding light on the twisted dynamics between Vallow and Daybell, and the devastating impact of their actions on their victims and the broader community.
Aimee Reid’s narration is a stellar feature of this audiobook. Her clear and expressive voice captures the gravity of the subject matter, making the complex legal and psychological aspects of the case accessible to listeners. Reid’s ability to convey the emotional weight of the story enhances the overall impact, drawing listeners into the harrowing journey of uncovering the truth behind the murders.
One of the strengths of Children of Darkness and Light is its exploration of the psychological and sociological factors that contributed to the couple’s descent into criminality. Hellis delves into their backgrounds, their radical beliefs, and the manipulative dynamics that fueled their actions. This in-depth analysis provides a nuanced understanding of how seemingly ordinary individuals can become perpetrators of such heinous crimes.
This audiobook highlights the tireless efforts of law enforcement and the legal system in bringing justice to the victims. Hellis meticulously documents the investigation, the challenges faced by the authorities, and the eventual courtroom drama, offering listeners a front-row seat to the unfolding of this tragic saga.
Children of Darkness and Light is a must-listen for true crime enthusiasts and anyone interested in the darker aspects of human nature.
Children of Darkness and Light: Lori Vallow, Chad Daybell and the Story of a Murderous Faith by Lori Hellis, narrated by Aimee Reid, is a gripping and meticulously researched true crime audiobook that delves into one of the most disturbing and complex cases in recent history. This audiobook offers a comprehensive examination of the tragic events surrounding Lori Vallow and Chad Daybell, whose apocalyptic beliefs led to a series of shocking murders.
Lori Hellis, a retired criminal lawyer, brings her legal expertise and investigative skills to the forefront, providing a detailed account of the case from its inception to the final verdict. Her narrative is both thorough and engaging, shedding light on the twisted dynamics between Vallow and Daybell, and the devastating impact of their actions on their victims and the broader community.
Aimee Reid’s narration is a stellar feature of this audiobook. Her clear and expressive voice captures the gravity of the subject matter, making the complex legal and psychological aspects of the case accessible to listeners. Reid’s ability to convey the emotional weight of the story enhances the overall impact, drawing listeners into the harrowing journey of uncovering the truth behind the murders.
One of the strengths of Children of Darkness and Light is its exploration of the psychological and sociological factors that contributed to the couple’s descent into criminality. Hellis delves into their backgrounds, their radical beliefs, and the manipulative dynamics that fueled their actions. This in-depth analysis provides a nuanced understanding of how seemingly ordinary individuals can become perpetrators of such heinous crimes.
This audiobook highlights the tireless efforts of law enforcement and the legal system in bringing justice to the victims. Hellis meticulously documents the investigation, the challenges faced by the authorities, and the eventual courtroom drama, offering listeners a front-row seat to the unfolding of this tragic saga.
Children of Darkness and Light is a must-listen for true crime enthusiasts and anyone interested in the darker aspects of human nature.
September 2, 2024
Title: Children of Darkness and Light” Lori Vallow, Chad Daybell
and the Story of a Murderous faith
Author: Lori Hellis
Format: 🎧
Narrator: Aimee Reid
Publisher: Dreamscape Media
Genre: non-Fiction, True Crime
Pub Date: September 24, 2024
My Rating: 3.3 Stars
Pages: 320
As a non-Mormon, I have always been fascinated with the LDS Church – in fact, faith and religion of friends and neighbors has always interested me.
We lived in Illinois when my daughters were young and our next door neighbors were Mormon. My six-year old was best friends with their little girl. My daughter was attending church and Sunday school classes but would come home from playing and have questions that I wasn’t always able to answer - this creating my curiosity.
y I read Educated which is a memoir by author Tara Westover published in 2018. Ms. Westover tells of her struggles growing up a female raised in a survivalist Mormon family. Story is entitled “Educated” as she had such a desire of being educated and being able to attend college.
This story starts with back ground information of how the Mormon Church originated.
Author Lori Hellis, is a retired criminal lawyer, she began to follow the case of Lori Vallow and Chad Daybell and their religion beliefs. As her research continued it gave her a better understand the circumstances that resulted in the deaths of the children. .
I am a big thriller fan used to twists and turns. Although the first part of this story was necessary in setting up the story it did drag a bit for me.
The story is truly sad.
I know the LDS church does not want to be associated with any cults but there are some things that have caused concems..
Want to thank NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for granting me this audiobook.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for September 24, 2024.
and the Story of a Murderous faith
Author: Lori Hellis
Format: 🎧
Narrator: Aimee Reid
Publisher: Dreamscape Media
Genre: non-Fiction, True Crime
Pub Date: September 24, 2024
My Rating: 3.3 Stars
Pages: 320
As a non-Mormon, I have always been fascinated with the LDS Church – in fact, faith and religion of friends and neighbors has always interested me.
We lived in Illinois when my daughters were young and our next door neighbors were Mormon. My six-year old was best friends with their little girl. My daughter was attending church and Sunday school classes but would come home from playing and have questions that I wasn’t always able to answer - this creating my curiosity.
y I read Educated which is a memoir by author Tara Westover published in 2018. Ms. Westover tells of her struggles growing up a female raised in a survivalist Mormon family. Story is entitled “Educated” as she had such a desire of being educated and being able to attend college.
This story starts with back ground information of how the Mormon Church originated.
Author Lori Hellis, is a retired criminal lawyer, she began to follow the case of Lori Vallow and Chad Daybell and their religion beliefs. As her research continued it gave her a better understand the circumstances that resulted in the deaths of the children. .
I am a big thriller fan used to twists and turns. Although the first part of this story was necessary in setting up the story it did drag a bit for me.
The story is truly sad.
I know the LDS church does not want to be associated with any cults but there are some things that have caused concems..
Want to thank NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for granting me this audiobook.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for September 24, 2024.
August 30, 2024
I’ve been following this case since Lori Vallow’s children first went missing. I’ve read, listened to, and watched as much as I could as the case has unfolded since 2019. This book was the most comprehensive view I’ve encountered and was a purely factual representation of something that has already been sensationalized.
The book starts strong with a full history of Mormonism-from its founding and beliefs, to modern-day practices. This is vital context for this case and even unveiled information I've never encountered in the past while learning about the LDS faith through podcasts and TV series.
By providing a detailed understanding of the church (it was about 10% of the entire book), and an in-depth exploration of Lori and Chad’s beliefs, this story centers itself in ways other examinations of this case have not. I’m so grateful the author provided this information first and foremost.
While I could write at length about my feelings about the case itself, I will instead say that the author did a beautiful job of remaining impartial. Hellis provided a wealth of information that I presume is straight from court proceedings and case evidence, including numerous text exchanges and transcripts of conversations. The view this provides of the mindset, and deep belief in this cause, of Lori Vallow and Chad Daybell is critical.
This is absolutely among one of the best true crime novels I’ve ever read. I credit the author for their attention to detail, presentation of facts, and relevant considerations, such as whether this was a cult or just a fringe religious group - an important examination putting the totality of the evidence in perspective.
I hope to see this book cited in the future as this case continues to pop up on various media platforms.
Thank you NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the opportunity to listen to an ARC of Children of Darkness and Light.
The book starts strong with a full history of Mormonism-from its founding and beliefs, to modern-day practices. This is vital context for this case and even unveiled information I've never encountered in the past while learning about the LDS faith through podcasts and TV series.
By providing a detailed understanding of the church (it was about 10% of the entire book), and an in-depth exploration of Lori and Chad’s beliefs, this story centers itself in ways other examinations of this case have not. I’m so grateful the author provided this information first and foremost.
While I could write at length about my feelings about the case itself, I will instead say that the author did a beautiful job of remaining impartial. Hellis provided a wealth of information that I presume is straight from court proceedings and case evidence, including numerous text exchanges and transcripts of conversations. The view this provides of the mindset, and deep belief in this cause, of Lori Vallow and Chad Daybell is critical.
This is absolutely among one of the best true crime novels I’ve ever read. I credit the author for their attention to detail, presentation of facts, and relevant considerations, such as whether this was a cult or just a fringe religious group - an important examination putting the totality of the evidence in perspective.
I hope to see this book cited in the future as this case continues to pop up on various media platforms.
Thank you NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the opportunity to listen to an ARC of Children of Darkness and Light.
October 20, 2024
I started following this story in December 2019 & quickly Lori Hellis, a retired Oregon criminal @ family law attorney making guest appearances on YouTube channels discussing this case. Lori’s 4th husband was killed in July 2019 by her brother Alex in “self defense” now 2 of Lori’s children hadn’t been seen since September 2019. Then there was the 10/19/19 suspicious death of Chad’s 49 year old wife of 29 yrs, Lori and Chad flew to Hawaii and married about 2 weeks after Tammy Daybell’s funeral. The “Good Lori” as she became known, is a down to earth highly intelligent & creative person with an engaging personality. I quickly learned so much legal strategies & complexities with this case. Ms Hellis lived & breathed this case tirelessly. She’s done an excellent job giving readers insight into how a physically attractive petite woman with an outgoing personality and by all accounts a loving and traditional LDS housewife ended up developing similar religious beliefs to Chad Daybell, a married father of 5 grown children who’s a quiet socially awkward, passive aggressive, overweight and insecure man. He claims having had several near death experiences that left him with the gift of being a visionary prophet with numerous God like capabilities. He and his now new wife joined forces leaving behind a wake of death and destruction while claiming to be on a God given mission to rid the world of zombies and gather/prepare the LDS people for the 2nd coming of Christ.
Lori wrote this stranger than fiction book so well and I highly recommend it. Whether you’re a fiction or non fiction fan, this book is for you. As the saying goes life is stranger than fiction.
Lori wrote this stranger than fiction book so well and I highly recommend it. Whether you’re a fiction or non fiction fan, this book is for you. As the saying goes life is stranger than fiction.
August 25, 2024
The author spent a lot of time on this case and did loads of research, which is appreciated, whether warranted or not. However, it was a slow-moving, somewhat repetitive story that read like an attorney instead of an author told it, and a few times I wanted to say, "I object!" It didn't have the flow of a lot of other true crime. Forgivable, for sure, if it had moved along better. The author is scathing in her telling, and it feels more like an essay or a long closing argument than a chronology of the events. She's very hard on the Mormon faith, which we know has a sordid history and fringe elements, like most other religions on Earth. She described the perpetrators as practicing a "cult". The author spends quite a bit of effort pointing out Mormon law and history as having led the Daybells to their killing spree. These three people, Lori, Chad, and Alex, all had severe personality disorders. Suppose they had been born in another area, or to another religion. In that case, we'd blame something else for their actions, whether it's a different religious fringe, a non-Mormon cult, videogame players, heavy metal listeners, or knitters. They were sociopaths. They were always going to manipulate people, likely to a similar end. Lori and Chad are family annihilators -- bottom line. The history of Mormonism was irrelevant to me and a lot of the judgment by the author felt biased and skewed. I'd have appreciated a more objective telling of the events and less history of religion.
August 30, 2024
Children of Darkness and Light” by Lori Hellis is a book that I found challenging to fully connect with. The narration felt somewhat flat, as if the narrator was simply reading without much passion or emotion, which made it difficult to stay engaged.
The book itself seemed to be padded with fillers, almost like an unorganized essay that struggled with poorly written transitional sentences. While I appreciate the importance of understanding the history behind the events, the way it was presented felt out of place and disrupted the flow, making it hard to follow the main narrative. I was hoping for more focus on the two main figures, Chad and Lori, as well as the tragic story of the children and Tammy who lost their lives, but these aspects seemed underdeveloped.
It honestly just felt like there was a lot of redundancy in the book which lost my attention and made me feel like I was losing my place.
The extensive biblical lessons woven into the text were also something I could have done without, although I must acknowledge that the author did a commendable job comparing the teachings of the Mormon faith to those of the Bible. Overall, while this book wasn’t for me, it doesn’t mean I wouldn’t recommend it to others who might appreciate its approach.
I truly appreciate being a member of NetGalley in which allowed me to have firsthand reading/ listening of this book before publishing.
The book itself seemed to be padded with fillers, almost like an unorganized essay that struggled with poorly written transitional sentences. While I appreciate the importance of understanding the history behind the events, the way it was presented felt out of place and disrupted the flow, making it hard to follow the main narrative. I was hoping for more focus on the two main figures, Chad and Lori, as well as the tragic story of the children and Tammy who lost their lives, but these aspects seemed underdeveloped.
It honestly just felt like there was a lot of redundancy in the book which lost my attention and made me feel like I was losing my place.
The extensive biblical lessons woven into the text were also something I could have done without, although I must acknowledge that the author did a commendable job comparing the teachings of the Mormon faith to those of the Bible. Overall, while this book wasn’t for me, it doesn’t mean I wouldn’t recommend it to others who might appreciate its approach.
I truly appreciate being a member of NetGalley in which allowed me to have firsthand reading/ listening of this book before publishing.
October 20, 2024
This deadly duo deserves everything they got, and more.
Lori and Chad were brought together during a conference, in which Chad was selling his books. Lori had been diving deeper into some of the far outlying beliefs in the LDS church, and unfortunately, it led to murder.
As I was listening to this book, I could not believe the level of depravity, and utter disregard for those around them. Chad was a charlatan, pure and simple, and his lies led to many families being destroyed. Lori was easily swayed, having looked into some of the taboo areas, and then with urging and support from friends, dove headfirst into the darkness that would lead to her downfall.
While there were some religious leanings that led to the murder of two innocent children, husbands, wives, and relatives, the simple motivation here was lust. They found themselves drawn together, Chad through his many lies, and entered into a relationship which leaves many speechless with horror.
This was a difficult read, but laid out in such a way that you could follow the unraveling of the minds from start to finish. I had to take some breaks while reading. As a mother, I could not fathom the reason that someone would kill their children, whether or not they considered them "possessed," instead of fighting to save them. From start to finish you are going to gasp, experience anger and disbelief, and then sit back and wonder how anyone could sink to this level.
Lori and Chad were brought together during a conference, in which Chad was selling his books. Lori had been diving deeper into some of the far outlying beliefs in the LDS church, and unfortunately, it led to murder.
As I was listening to this book, I could not believe the level of depravity, and utter disregard for those around them. Chad was a charlatan, pure and simple, and his lies led to many families being destroyed. Lori was easily swayed, having looked into some of the taboo areas, and then with urging and support from friends, dove headfirst into the darkness that would lead to her downfall.
While there were some religious leanings that led to the murder of two innocent children, husbands, wives, and relatives, the simple motivation here was lust. They found themselves drawn together, Chad through his many lies, and entered into a relationship which leaves many speechless with horror.
This was a difficult read, but laid out in such a way that you could follow the unraveling of the minds from start to finish. I had to take some breaks while reading. As a mother, I could not fathom the reason that someone would kill their children, whether or not they considered them "possessed," instead of fighting to save them. From start to finish you are going to gasp, experience anger and disbelief, and then sit back and wonder how anyone could sink to this level.
November 15, 2024
Let me preface this by saying I am an ex-Mormon and have spent my postdoctorate years (2021-Present/2024) studying the history of the faith and culture I was born and raised in. That being said this book was in desperate need of a fact-checker and a far better editor. Hollis was constantly repeating things that detracted from the narrative and jumped around in the chronology too much. It was so disjointed. There were many basic errors that were repeated multiple times over, especially in phrases like "for all time and all eternity" which correct is "for time and *all* eternity," which is actually kinda crucial if you want to understand anything about how temple and non-temple marriages are perceived in Mormonism. There was also a strange affection of referring to JS as "Smith Jr." which I have never seen in a supposedly professional dissertation on Mormon or even basic American religious history. Hellis was so entrenched in her anti-Mormon bias that it was hard to take her seriously. She came across Nancy Grace-like in her sensationalism of Daybell and Vallow's beliefs and how this led to the murder of two children and two spouses. The audiobook was also poor in that the narrator was constantly mispronouncing "Moroni," "Manti," and other very Mormon words. In short if you want to read a very good book on the Vallow/Daybell murder spree I would recommend Leah Sottile's "When the Moon Turns to Blood" and the podcast Hidden True Crime.
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