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The Grand Canyon Black Widower
Not yet published
Expected 29 Sep 26- GenresTrue Crime
224 pages, Paperback
Expected publication September 29, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews
August 17, 2026
An interesting, thorough and well put together account of a slippery individual who throughout his life charmed many people. As revealed in later years, he killed quite a few of them as well. This was like the Robert Durst case- whomever crosses his path will get put out of the way, permanently. The crimes were particularly tragic and ruthless, especially the earlier deaths.
Outwardly a family man, popular, successful career, good standing in the community, a sportsman and avid hiker with many ‘unlucky’ and seemingly explainable deaths associated to him. The author brought the perpetrator’s early years to account which set the groundwork for exploring his character and despicable crimes. This was a really interesting read detailing the series of ‘unfortunate events’ connected to him, his audacity and ‘luck’, and the haunting majestic landscape of the Grand Canyon.
This wasn’t a long read yet it was engaging and grabbed my interest into the case. I didn’t put it down. For a longer account, I may wish to delve deeper into the psychology and behaviours, the little details and memories of those around him. Were there signs, red flags. I would be interested to get an insight into his domestic life and in relationships. Although perhaps much of this remains unknown and secrets have gone to the grave.
4 stars. Would definitely read other true crime by the author.
Thanks to Netgalley for the arc.
Outwardly a family man, popular, successful career, good standing in the community, a sportsman and avid hiker with many ‘unlucky’ and seemingly explainable deaths associated to him. The author brought the perpetrator’s early years to account which set the groundwork for exploring his character and despicable crimes. This was a really interesting read detailing the series of ‘unfortunate events’ connected to him, his audacity and ‘luck’, and the haunting majestic landscape of the Grand Canyon.
This wasn’t a long read yet it was engaging and grabbed my interest into the case. I didn’t put it down. For a longer account, I may wish to delve deeper into the psychology and behaviours, the little details and memories of those around him. Were there signs, red flags. I would be interested to get an insight into his domestic life and in relationships. Although perhaps much of this remains unknown and secrets have gone to the grave.
4 stars. Would definitely read other true crime by the author.
Thanks to Netgalley for the arc.
July 22, 2026
Review of advanced copy from NetGalley
Plot: True crime tale of a man who murdered multiple wives (at least 2) and his children.
Impression: This was a very short book for true crime. I also found the ties to the Grand Canyon rather weak- only one spouse was killed there. There was more detail about the national park than I felt was relevant. However, I liked the way the book was organized and it was a crime I was unfamiliar with. An enjoyable read overall. I would love to read an interview with his last wife!
Trigger Warning: nothing explicit but mentions of spousal abuse
Star System: 5 star reads are books I can’t put down and/or make me cry. This is a book that will stick with me for either the topic, writing style, or emotional impact.
4 star books are unique or interesting and perhaps teach me something new. A feel good read is usually 4 stars.
3 star reads are good, solid books. I’m not necessarily learning or feeling anything new.
2 star books have some plot holes or timeline issues. These are the books that just aren’t believable.
1 star books are typically offensive
Plot: True crime tale of a man who murdered multiple wives (at least 2) and his children.
Impression: This was a very short book for true crime. I also found the ties to the Grand Canyon rather weak- only one spouse was killed there. There was more detail about the national park than I felt was relevant. However, I liked the way the book was organized and it was a crime I was unfamiliar with. An enjoyable read overall. I would love to read an interview with his last wife!
Trigger Warning: nothing explicit but mentions of spousal abuse
Star System: 5 star reads are books I can’t put down and/or make me cry. This is a book that will stick with me for either the topic, writing style, or emotional impact.
4 star books are unique or interesting and perhaps teach me something new. A feel good read is usually 4 stars.
3 star reads are good, solid books. I’m not necessarily learning or feeling anything new.
2 star books have some plot holes or timeline issues. These are the books that just aren’t believable.
1 star books are typically offensive
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was my second book in this series, and I’m really enjoying them so far. As a lifelong Arizona resident and true crime fan, I was surprised that I had never heard of this case. Going in, I assumed Arizona’s entry in the series would focus on someone like Jodi Arias or Winnie Ruth Judd, so discovering this story was an unexpected treat.
What makes this book especially compelling is the scope of the crime. Spanning decades and multiple locations, it highlights both the complexity of the investigation and the persistence required to bring a killer to justice. It serves as a reminder that while justice can move slowly, it often catches up in the end.
The most satisfying aspect was seeing the victims’ families finally receive some measure of closure, even if the ultimate outcome left me wishing the perpetrator had faced a more fitting punishment. Overall, this was an excellent true crime read and one I would definitely recommend to fans of the genre.
What makes this book especially compelling is the scope of the crime. Spanning decades and multiple locations, it highlights both the complexity of the investigation and the persistence required to bring a killer to justice. It serves as a reminder that while justice can move slowly, it often catches up in the end.
The most satisfying aspect was seeing the victims’ families finally receive some measure of closure, even if the ultimate outcome left me wishing the perpetrator had faced a more fitting punishment. Overall, this was an excellent true crime read and one I would definitely recommend to fans of the genre.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A good read. The line, "He was such a nice person" fits well here. The author provides a great look into the life and crimes of the murderer as well as the victims of his crimes. The book is a fast read and held my attention and made me not want to put it down till I finished. A good true crime read. This is the fourth book of this series I have read, and I have enjoyed all of the stories. A good series.
Thank you to #NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
Thank you to #NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
I've enjoyed the books I've previously read in the 50 States of Crime series, and I also liked this book. The story of these crimes was well explained. I wish the guy had had to face the consequences of his actions more fully. He got off easy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I received a free copy of, The Grand Canyon Black Widower, by Vincent Manileve, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This is a good series. This was not a nice man at all. Im shocked he found so many women to marry him, and then he gets rid of them.
Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews