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My Daddy Is a Hero: How Chris Watts Went from Family Man to Family Killer
A husband. A father. A killer.
Chris Watts was a family man. Everybody, including his family, believed that. Yet, on August 13, 2018, he murdered Shanann, his pregnant wife, and two young daughters, burying Shanann and their unborn son in a shallow grave and dumping their daughters’ bodies in separate oil tanks.
As terrible as his story is, it is also a warning because, to this day, living behind bars, Watts is still acting out the character traits that made him kill in the first place.
In this, the first and only psychological exploration of the Watts family murders, psychotherapist Lena Derhally has pieced together the crime, the events leading to it, and most of all, her beliefs about the “why,” including the fact that Chris Watts—now a self-described “man of God”—is not in the least remorseful about killing his family.
Using police discovery and other sources, Derhally recreates the night of the murders and the investigation that followed. She explores the childhoods, families of origin, meeting, and early relationship of Shanann and Chris Watts. She also examines Watts’s double life and duplicity regarding his well-publicized affair with a co-worker, who, although she claimed their affair was casual, was searching online for wedding dresses at the time of the murders.
The book includes an in-depth look at community psychopaths, the different subtypes of narcissism, how to prevent this type of violence, and interviews with a neuroscientist, a criminal psychologist, and a journalist in order to determine what in Watts's twisted makeup allowed him to hide who he really is for so long. Using her knowledge of attachment theory, Imago relationship theory, and psychopathology, Derhally draws a profile of the real Chris Watts and--just as important--she warns readers that he is still a danger today.
**$1 from each book sold during the pre-sale and first week of sales will be donated to St Jude Children's Research Hospital (in the name of Shanann, Bella, CeCe and Nico), which is one of the designated charities named by Shanann's family on Dr. Phil. The author will post receipts of sales and donation receipt on her website upon payment of the initial sales.
Chris Watts was a family man. Everybody, including his family, believed that. Yet, on August 13, 2018, he murdered Shanann, his pregnant wife, and two young daughters, burying Shanann and their unborn son in a shallow grave and dumping their daughters’ bodies in separate oil tanks.
As terrible as his story is, it is also a warning because, to this day, living behind bars, Watts is still acting out the character traits that made him kill in the first place.
In this, the first and only psychological exploration of the Watts family murders, psychotherapist Lena Derhally has pieced together the crime, the events leading to it, and most of all, her beliefs about the “why,” including the fact that Chris Watts—now a self-described “man of God”—is not in the least remorseful about killing his family.
Using police discovery and other sources, Derhally recreates the night of the murders and the investigation that followed. She explores the childhoods, families of origin, meeting, and early relationship of Shanann and Chris Watts. She also examines Watts’s double life and duplicity regarding his well-publicized affair with a co-worker, who, although she claimed their affair was casual, was searching online for wedding dresses at the time of the murders.
The book includes an in-depth look at community psychopaths, the different subtypes of narcissism, how to prevent this type of violence, and interviews with a neuroscientist, a criminal psychologist, and a journalist in order to determine what in Watts's twisted makeup allowed him to hide who he really is for so long. Using her knowledge of attachment theory, Imago relationship theory, and psychopathology, Derhally draws a profile of the real Chris Watts and--just as important--she warns readers that he is still a danger today.
**$1 from each book sold during the pre-sale and first week of sales will be donated to St Jude Children's Research Hospital (in the name of Shanann, Bella, CeCe and Nico), which is one of the designated charities named by Shanann's family on Dr. Phil. The author will post receipts of sales and donation receipt on her website upon payment of the initial sales.
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First published April 14, 2020
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About the author
Lena Derhally
2 books44 followersLena Derhally is a licensed psychotherapist certified in Imago Relationship Therapy. She specializes in relationships and sees individuals and couples with a variety of issues. She has published numerous articles in The Washington Post and Huffington Post. She has also been interviewed for a variety of publications as an expert, including Self Magazine and Glamour Magazine. She is the co-host of a psychology podcast, “Sessions with Bob and Lena” and is a public speaker.
In her spare time, when she is not spending time with her family and friends, she enjoys being a clinical instructor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at the George Washington School of Medicine where she mentors medical students. She is also very passionate about raising money and awareness for children with trauma who have been afflicted by war.
In her spare time, when she is not spending time with her family and friends, she enjoys being a clinical instructor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at the George Washington School of Medicine where she mentors medical students. She is also very passionate about raising money and awareness for children with trauma who have been afflicted by war.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 421 reviews
March 1, 2022
Out of all the books written on this case, I found this one to be the best. It really went in-depth and was easy to read. No matter how it is given to you, this case is sad and horrifying. I just don't understand how someone kills a child, much less their own. I feel it takes a special kind of evil to commit crimes on the most innocent of us. I have no idea how he lives with himself. I hope there is a special place after this life these soulless animals go to. Watts is still acting out his character traits behind bars. No rest for the wicked.
January 20, 2020
I have been fascinated with this case from the moment I watched the now infamous Chris Watts interview with the media in the days immediately following his wife and children's disappearance. I could not understand how this "nice guy" could do what he did, and a book that shed any insight into his psyche was a must-read for me. The most troubling thing about Chris Watts is that he is still such an enigma to mental health professionals, although I thought Derhally pointed out some key character traits that made sense and came as close as I believe anyone will ever come to the psychological makeup of Watts and offers great insight into how and why he did what he did.
The book is primarily broken up into three parts. The first and second half of the book rehash the details of the case and are made up of police interviews, court transcripts, text messages and social media posts of both Shannan and Chris, etc. Even to those well-versed in the case, there are details that were surprising (to me, it was the time frame of his daughters' deaths and the calculating premeditation). The third part of the book is where the real bulk of Derhally's analysis takes place. It was chilling and tragic, however, that Derhally repeatedly asserts that there were absolutely no obvious warning signs, and that Shannan had no way of seeing this coming. Derhally presents powerful information on narcissism and the patterns of which Watts fits to a tee. Self-importance and other people's perception of him were a driving force (and continue to be to this day with him). His need of constant adoration from others is thoroughly documented. I thought there was a very insightful excerpt from the investigator's transcript of his prison visit with Watts after he had been sentenced to life, where the investigator tells him that Shannan's parents do not hate him, and Watts remarks over and over about how happy he is to hear that and how he repeatedly tells the investigator that he is a great guy, who would do anything to help others and how everyone knows that about him. It was also very troubling that Watts seems to have no real remorse or understanding about what he has done and truly believes he will someday be released from prison because he is such a "good guy."
The only thing I disliked about the book (and this is minor) is the title. I realize that it's a chilling statement/song that his young daughter, Bella, sang about in the car and Shannan recorded and posted on social media; however, I still felt like it was distasteful, as a reader could initially get the wrong impression.
Overall, it is a very informative, fact-laden, well-written story into this horrific tragedy. One of the most insightful true crime books I have read to-date. 4 stars.
The book is primarily broken up into three parts. The first and second half of the book rehash the details of the case and are made up of police interviews, court transcripts, text messages and social media posts of both Shannan and Chris, etc. Even to those well-versed in the case, there are details that were surprising (to me, it was the time frame of his daughters' deaths and the calculating premeditation). The third part of the book is where the real bulk of Derhally's analysis takes place. It was chilling and tragic, however, that Derhally repeatedly asserts that there were absolutely no obvious warning signs, and that Shannan had no way of seeing this coming. Derhally presents powerful information on narcissism and the patterns of which Watts fits to a tee. Self-importance and other people's perception of him were a driving force (and continue to be to this day with him). His need of constant adoration from others is thoroughly documented. I thought there was a very insightful excerpt from the investigator's transcript of his prison visit with Watts after he had been sentenced to life, where the investigator tells him that Shannan's parents do not hate him, and Watts remarks over and over about how happy he is to hear that and how he repeatedly tells the investigator that he is a great guy, who would do anything to help others and how everyone knows that about him. It was also very troubling that Watts seems to have no real remorse or understanding about what he has done and truly believes he will someday be released from prison because he is such a "good guy."
The only thing I disliked about the book (and this is minor) is the title. I realize that it's a chilling statement/song that his young daughter, Bella, sang about in the car and Shannan recorded and posted on social media; however, I still felt like it was distasteful, as a reader could initially get the wrong impression.
Overall, it is a very informative, fact-laden, well-written story into this horrific tragedy. One of the most insightful true crime books I have read to-date. 4 stars.
May 30, 2021
This is the second book I've read about this case. This one gives so much more detail into the case. Pick this one if you're interested in reading about this unforgivable crime
August 26, 2021
There is a special place in hell for people like Chris Watts.
In August 2018, Shanann Watts was raising two daughters, pregnant with a son on the way, and wondering where exactly in the last 5 weeks she had gone wrong in what, up until that point, had seemed like her perfect 6-year marriage to her husband Chris. The normally bright, bubbly, cheerful and outgoing work-from-home mom had been under extreme emotional duress in the months leading up to this point, but she was determined to make it work. She loved her family and the life she had worked hard to build in Colorado with her husband and she knew Chris did too. Or she thought she knew. But so much of what she didn't know ended up killing her and her children.
In the early hours of August 13th, 2018, Chris violently ended the lives of his wife, two daughters, and unborn baby in unspeakable crimes. The case quickly became a national sensation and Americans were collectively outraged that this seemingly normal, easygoing family man could snap and murder his entire family. It would be some time before the truth of the premeditation of these murders came to light along with many other disturbing details, but it took far less time for Chris Watts to become one of the most speculated about and hated men in America.
Lena Derhally unpacks the events leading up to and following these shocking family murders, and goes beyond that to consider the mental state of Chris Watts. Is he a psychopath? A narcissist? What could have happened in his brain to lead to such a devastating outcome?
I appreciate Derhally's handling of such a sensitive topic and murder case. She gives Shanann and her daughters a voice they so deserve and handles their perspectives with great compassion. She analyzes this case from every possible angle, and she does it with compelling storytelling. Living in Colorado and generally in this country I knew about this case and some of the surface level details, but there were so many more sinister text messages, behaviors, and events than I had realized. It was both fascinating and viscerally upsetting to learn about these murders. I don't condone violence, but if the other prisoners incarcerated alongside Chris Watts are interested in beating the life out of him, I would condone that. He is a sick and horrible human being, as evidenced by Derhally's careful analysis of his psychology. This portion of the book dragged on a bit too much for my tastes and was at times slightly too clinical, but I still appreciated the learning experience it provided.
Recommended for fans of true crime, criminal psychology, and those who followed this case closely. Rest in peace to the beautiful Shanann, Bella, Cece, and Nico Watts. Burn in hell to Chris.
In August 2018, Shanann Watts was raising two daughters, pregnant with a son on the way, and wondering where exactly in the last 5 weeks she had gone wrong in what, up until that point, had seemed like her perfect 6-year marriage to her husband Chris. The normally bright, bubbly, cheerful and outgoing work-from-home mom had been under extreme emotional duress in the months leading up to this point, but she was determined to make it work. She loved her family and the life she had worked hard to build in Colorado with her husband and she knew Chris did too. Or she thought she knew. But so much of what she didn't know ended up killing her and her children.
In the early hours of August 13th, 2018, Chris violently ended the lives of his wife, two daughters, and unborn baby in unspeakable crimes. The case quickly became a national sensation and Americans were collectively outraged that this seemingly normal, easygoing family man could snap and murder his entire family. It would be some time before the truth of the premeditation of these murders came to light along with many other disturbing details, but it took far less time for Chris Watts to become one of the most speculated about and hated men in America.
Lena Derhally unpacks the events leading up to and following these shocking family murders, and goes beyond that to consider the mental state of Chris Watts. Is he a psychopath? A narcissist? What could have happened in his brain to lead to such a devastating outcome?
I appreciate Derhally's handling of such a sensitive topic and murder case. She gives Shanann and her daughters a voice they so deserve and handles their perspectives with great compassion. She analyzes this case from every possible angle, and she does it with compelling storytelling. Living in Colorado and generally in this country I knew about this case and some of the surface level details, but there were so many more sinister text messages, behaviors, and events than I had realized. It was both fascinating and viscerally upsetting to learn about these murders. I don't condone violence, but if the other prisoners incarcerated alongside Chris Watts are interested in beating the life out of him, I would condone that. He is a sick and horrible human being, as evidenced by Derhally's careful analysis of his psychology. This portion of the book dragged on a bit too much for my tastes and was at times slightly too clinical, but I still appreciated the learning experience it provided.
Recommended for fans of true crime, criminal psychology, and those who followed this case closely. Rest in peace to the beautiful Shanann, Bella, Cece, and Nico Watts. Burn in hell to Chris.
April 21, 2020
Coming off my recent read of The Perfect Father, which also covers the murder case of Shanann Watts and her children–Bella, Celeste, and unborn Nico–I was hopeful that My Daddy is a Hero would do a better job of relaying the facts without blaming Shanann for her own demise. I’m happy to say that Lena Derhally’s book is an excellent exploration of the case. Part overview of the crimes and part analysis, psychotherapist Derhally presents her perspective of how a seemingly perfect husband became a family annihilator.
While My Daddy is a Hero summarizes the events leading up to and including the crimes themselves, the text stays away from the salacious details that many other outlets have zeroed in on. More importantly to me, this book makes it clear that the blame for the crimes lies solely with the murderer, Chris Watts. I’ve found other commentaries on this case focus too sharply on Shanann’s personality flaws, even to the point of character assassination and outright victim blaming. That’s not the case here.
Additionally, the book includes a significant exploration of the personality disorders that could have contributed to this crime (though the author is clear to disclaim that she has not treated the murderer personally, and so cannot formally diagnose him). Some of the topics analyzed include community psychopathy as well as narcissism and its offshoots.
If, like me, you’re always troubled by the “why” of crime, this book is a study in potential answers. While the crimes are discussed, they are done so with care and respect for the victims. I highly recommend this book to anyone seeking a deeper examination of this case.
Many thanks to Libro.fm for my free advance listening copy.
While My Daddy is a Hero summarizes the events leading up to and including the crimes themselves, the text stays away from the salacious details that many other outlets have zeroed in on. More importantly to me, this book makes it clear that the blame for the crimes lies solely with the murderer, Chris Watts. I’ve found other commentaries on this case focus too sharply on Shanann’s personality flaws, even to the point of character assassination and outright victim blaming. That’s not the case here.
Additionally, the book includes a significant exploration of the personality disorders that could have contributed to this crime (though the author is clear to disclaim that she has not treated the murderer personally, and so cannot formally diagnose him). Some of the topics analyzed include community psychopathy as well as narcissism and its offshoots.
If, like me, you’re always troubled by the “why” of crime, this book is a study in potential answers. While the crimes are discussed, they are done so with care and respect for the victims. I highly recommend this book to anyone seeking a deeper examination of this case.
Many thanks to Libro.fm for my free advance listening copy.
March 9, 2024
Let’s start with the title - My daddy is a Hero: How Chris Watts went from Family Man to Family Killer.
The conflicting title is aptly chosen for it perfectly sets the over-arching theme of Lena Derhally’s true-crime masterpiece.
The book is structured in three distinctive parts that are equally well executed. First, it provides the facts about the Watts family murders and the police investigation.
In the second part, the author provides an apt profiling of the perpetrator and his wife, one of the victims.
Leaving it there, it would have been already all nice and well.
To my surprise, adding a third part, this here author manages to surpass standard crime-writing by treating us with an in-depth psychological treatise on emotional deviance that shines with competence and relevance.
The author’s specialist knowledge is put to good use as she explains how people like Watts are made, or not made. The nature versus nurture debate is referenced only a couple of times and plays little role within her scheme of things. So, fittingly, the only nitpick I have is when the author confidently injects the Free Will proposition amidst her professional theories. But that is just me and of no consequence as it takes nothing away from the author’s accomplishment.
Other than specialist books on psychology, this here book of Lena Derhally ranks among the very few that had me actually learn something new in the field. On completion of the book, as I reflected on the author’s statements, I also realized how the title already anticipated how I would feel at the end of the reading, namely, thoroughly jolted. In my humble understanding, Watts is a narcissists with psychopathic traits that manages to completely deceive the people around him as to his real nature. It is said that sustaining a way of life built on deception is like a house of cards that is bound to collapse as ever more lies are needed for consistency. What scares me here is that Watts is not at all affected by this simple rationality. He did not build his life around a lie, instead he is the lie himself. His whole being seems to have been evolved to completely deceive his surroundings in order to gain maximum narcissistic gratification. We do certainly have an inherent knowledge of human nature which we apply to the people around us as we judge, with varying success, their actions and reactions on an emotional basis. At the least, if something is off repeatedly about a person’s behavior, we are forewarned. However, people such as Chris Watts seem to be able fly below that “weirdness” radar. For what it’s worth, the author’s elucidations had me make a double take on people and relationships in general.
Summa summarum, this ranks among the best in
true crime compositions there are.
The conflicting title is aptly chosen for it perfectly sets the over-arching theme of Lena Derhally’s true-crime masterpiece.
The book is structured in three distinctive parts that are equally well executed. First, it provides the facts about the Watts family murders and the police investigation.
In the second part, the author provides an apt profiling of the perpetrator and his wife, one of the victims.
Leaving it there, it would have been already all nice and well.
To my surprise, adding a third part, this here author manages to surpass standard crime-writing by treating us with an in-depth psychological treatise on emotional deviance that shines with competence and relevance.
The author’s specialist knowledge is put to good use as she explains how people like Watts are made, or not made. The nature versus nurture debate is referenced only a couple of times and plays little role within her scheme of things. So, fittingly, the only nitpick I have is when the author confidently injects the Free Will proposition amidst her professional theories. But that is just me and of no consequence as it takes nothing away from the author’s accomplishment.
Other than specialist books on psychology, this here book of Lena Derhally ranks among the very few that had me actually learn something new in the field. On completion of the book, as I reflected on the author’s statements, I also realized how the title already anticipated how I would feel at the end of the reading, namely, thoroughly jolted. In my humble understanding, Watts is a narcissists with psychopathic traits that manages to completely deceive the people around him as to his real nature. It is said that sustaining a way of life built on deception is like a house of cards that is bound to collapse as ever more lies are needed for consistency. What scares me here is that Watts is not at all affected by this simple rationality. He did not build his life around a lie, instead he is the lie himself. His whole being seems to have been evolved to completely deceive his surroundings in order to gain maximum narcissistic gratification. We do certainly have an inherent knowledge of human nature which we apply to the people around us as we judge, with varying success, their actions and reactions on an emotional basis. At the least, if something is off repeatedly about a person’s behavior, we are forewarned. However, people such as Chris Watts seem to be able fly below that “weirdness” radar. For what it’s worth, the author’s elucidations had me make a double take on people and relationships in general.
Summa summarum, this ranks among the best in
true crime compositions there are.
July 12, 2020
Just wow
I followed this story on the news and to read it in more detail is disturbing. I did skip the chapter that discusses the nursery bc I knew I couldn’t handle it and I thank the author for the warning. As a true crime novel this was brilliantly written and is more than just the grime and gore. It focuses on The sickness of the individual that committed the crimeS and gives you a pick at his brain. Very interesting reading.
I followed this story on the news and to read it in more detail is disturbing. I did skip the chapter that discusses the nursery bc I knew I couldn’t handle it and I thank the author for the warning. As a true crime novel this was brilliantly written and is more than just the grime and gore. It focuses on The sickness of the individual that committed the crimeS and gives you a pick at his brain. Very interesting reading.
October 15, 2022
Time for True Crime 😬
🛑TRIGGER WARNING extreme violence🛑
My friend @sadaleywrites sent me this book last year & I’ve been putting it off because it’s a hard one to digest. After watching Dahmer I decided to pick it up. I might as well get all of the emotions out at once, right?
This story hits so close to home it’s scary. Shanann is from NJ like me, her family moved to NC also like mine. I actually watched Chris Watt’s initial interview on the News in NC & told everyone in the room that he was lying. He gave me the chills just from his mannerisms. I also suffer from autoimmune issues including Lupus like Shanann , am very close in age & was pursued & swooned by a dangerous human at my lowest point in life. It’s horrifying to think if I didn’t get out of that situation what could have happened to me. What would my future have looked like? Would I have had one? Some of you know my story but it’s not something that I like to elaborate on.
“Shanann locked the door behind her and used a security system to keep evil away from her and her family. She had no idea that the evil she needed to protect themselves from was the person she trusted the most.”
If you are unfamiliar with this case, Chris Watts murdered his pregnant wife & two toddler girls: Bella & Celeste because he wanted to be with his mistress. I will spare you the details.
The reason why I chose this book in particular is because it’s primary focus is to discuss narcissism, sociopaths vs. psychopaths & how to prevent/ detect this type of violence in relationships & your community. The most frightening aspect is that Chris, among many others in prison are FAILED psychopaths; imagine how many we interact with on a daily basis.
4.5 /5⭐️
This would’ve been a 5 star read if it wasn’t quite as repetitive and it did have some grammatical errors.
💭 Have you heard of the Watts story?
💭 What’s the last True Crime book that you read or show that you watched?
#chriswatts #truecrime #truecrimebooks #narcissist #psychopath #sociopath #shannanwatts #wattsfamily #mydaddyisahero #lenaderhally #dahmer #truecrimebooks #nonfiction #nonfictionbooks #nonfictionbook #nonfictionnovember #murder #familicide #fallreading #currentlyreading #bookfeaturepage #bookrecommendation #bookreader #bookreview #gifted #amazonwishlist
🛑TRIGGER WARNING extreme violence🛑
My friend @sadaleywrites sent me this book last year & I’ve been putting it off because it’s a hard one to digest. After watching Dahmer I decided to pick it up. I might as well get all of the emotions out at once, right?
This story hits so close to home it’s scary. Shanann is from NJ like me, her family moved to NC also like mine. I actually watched Chris Watt’s initial interview on the News in NC & told everyone in the room that he was lying. He gave me the chills just from his mannerisms. I also suffer from autoimmune issues including Lupus like Shanann , am very close in age & was pursued & swooned by a dangerous human at my lowest point in life. It’s horrifying to think if I didn’t get out of that situation what could have happened to me. What would my future have looked like? Would I have had one? Some of you know my story but it’s not something that I like to elaborate on.
“Shanann locked the door behind her and used a security system to keep evil away from her and her family. She had no idea that the evil she needed to protect themselves from was the person she trusted the most.”
If you are unfamiliar with this case, Chris Watts murdered his pregnant wife & two toddler girls: Bella & Celeste because he wanted to be with his mistress. I will spare you the details.
The reason why I chose this book in particular is because it’s primary focus is to discuss narcissism, sociopaths vs. psychopaths & how to prevent/ detect this type of violence in relationships & your community. The most frightening aspect is that Chris, among many others in prison are FAILED psychopaths; imagine how many we interact with on a daily basis.
4.5 /5⭐️
This would’ve been a 5 star read if it wasn’t quite as repetitive and it did have some grammatical errors.
💭 Have you heard of the Watts story?
💭 What’s the last True Crime book that you read or show that you watched?
#chriswatts #truecrime #truecrimebooks #narcissist #psychopath #sociopath #shannanwatts #wattsfamily #mydaddyisahero #lenaderhally #dahmer #truecrimebooks #nonfiction #nonfictionbooks #nonfictionbook #nonfictionnovember #murder #familicide #fallreading #currentlyreading #bookfeaturepage #bookrecommendation #bookreader #bookreview #gifted #amazonwishlist
September 7, 2022
Why does it feel so difficult to find good true crime books? I don't feel as though I have this problem when I am looking at documentaries, docuseries, blogs, or podcasts. But for some reason, almost every time I pick up a true crime book it feels forced and dull.
Sadly, My Daddy is a Hero was no different. Don't get me wrong. If you want a book that talks about the basic facts of this case and the DSM-V read to you word for word - this book may be for you. But as someone who already knew about this case with a background in psychology, I was just bored.
Derhally's discussion of this case was extremely long-winded. She did not offer anything that you couldn't find elsewhere about this case.
The blurb touts how this is a case narration from a psychotherapist. But even these components of the book were extremely basic, in my opinion. This may be a different experience for readers with no knowledge of psychology or psychological diagnosis. However, I have come across countless podcasts, in particular, that have had similar, much more engaging, discussions in much more detail.
Note: Review copy received from Libro.FM. This does not impact opinions within this review.
becandbooks.com ‧ trigger warning database ‧ book depository ‧ more links
Sadly, My Daddy is a Hero was no different. Don't get me wrong. If you want a book that talks about the basic facts of this case and the DSM-V read to you word for word - this book may be for you. But as someone who already knew about this case with a background in psychology, I was just bored.
Derhally's discussion of this case was extremely long-winded. She did not offer anything that you couldn't find elsewhere about this case.
The blurb touts how this is a case narration from a psychotherapist. But even these components of the book were extremely basic, in my opinion. This may be a different experience for readers with no knowledge of psychology or psychological diagnosis. However, I have come across countless podcasts, in particular, that have had similar, much more engaging, discussions in much more detail.
→ trigger warnings: murder, child death, domestic violence resulting in death
Note: Review copy received from Libro.FM. This does not impact opinions within this review.
becandbooks.com ‧ trigger warning database ‧ book depository ‧ more links
February 14, 2023
My second book on this case and just as good (if not better) than the first. Very detailed, but also offers a different perspective that I feel we don't see that often in true crime books so I appreciate it.
I'd recommend this one to anyone interested in the case, it breaks everything down nicely and the narration is perfectly okay too, if you choose the audiobook.
I'd recommend this one to anyone interested in the case, it breaks everything down nicely and the narration is perfectly okay too, if you choose the audiobook.
October 5, 2020
From the moment I received my book I could not put it down. This is a masterful and gripping account of the murder of Shanann Watts, her daughters and her unborn son by her husband, Chris Watts. The author provides important background information about Shanann and Chris’s relationship and Chris’s relationship with his parents and other family members. Most importantly the author uses her knowledge as a psychotherapist and couples counselor to provide valuable insight into Chris’s personality along with why and how a tragedy like this can happen. She also discusses how to spot psychopathic and narcissistic traits in others and avoid allowing those people into ones life. All of this is something I’ve never encountered before in a true crime book. This is a heartbreaking but important book to read.
December 12, 2020
Riveting reading. True crime so heinous it's hard to imagine. Derhally does a great job of sticking to the known facts about the case and making it very clear when she is expressing an opinion.
September 12, 2020
A thorough accounting of the Chris Watts case, ideal for someone like me who went in pretty cold... stayed for the psychoanalysis though. When I first saw the book I was deeply skeptical of the armchair take, but I ended up really liking it. Everything is well-stated, properly hedged, but also pretty illuminating.
I chose this, happily "free" via Kindle Unlimited, over the Big 5 published book on the same subject as reviews for that one, plus the sample pages, indicated it heavily favored "this poor man who had his nagging wife" and I am NOT about that life. Goodbye with that take. Derhally was both fair but also unequivocal: the ONLY person responsible for murdering three people is Chris Watts. It does not MATTER what Shanann was like. He's the cold-hearted murdered in this scenario. And I thought Derhally did a good job analyzing Chris's personality, any "signs" there were or weren't, and going in depth on types of narcissists as well as anti-social personality disorder.
The book is at times a tad repetitive, and it did take a little bit to get into the narrative writing style at the very beginning (Derhally's strength is the analytical writing over narrative, but that's okay), but overall nothing that detracted too much. As I often say, this book delivered what it said on the tin: it's a recap of the Chris Watt's case with a ton of material that psychoanalyzes the case.
I did end up supplementing the book with some YouTube searches and it enhanced my reading experience. Likely to cover her own butt (understandably), Derhally doesn't go in-depth into Chris's family and the likely dysfunction there... but a handy YouTube video went into more details on some things Shannan's mother has said that gave me a clearer picture, re: Chris's mom and sister that I found illuminating. Poor Shannan married into some horrible in-laws, basically. It was also very helpful to watch the police footage of the initial house search--I was better able to picture the house, and watching Chris is just chilling.
I chose this, happily "free" via Kindle Unlimited, over the Big 5 published book on the same subject as reviews for that one, plus the sample pages, indicated it heavily favored "this poor man who had his nagging wife" and I am NOT about that life. Goodbye with that take. Derhally was both fair but also unequivocal: the ONLY person responsible for murdering three people is Chris Watts. It does not MATTER what Shanann was like. He's the cold-hearted murdered in this scenario. And I thought Derhally did a good job analyzing Chris's personality, any "signs" there were or weren't, and going in depth on types of narcissists as well as anti-social personality disorder.
The book is at times a tad repetitive, and it did take a little bit to get into the narrative writing style at the very beginning (Derhally's strength is the analytical writing over narrative, but that's okay), but overall nothing that detracted too much. As I often say, this book delivered what it said on the tin: it's a recap of the Chris Watt's case with a ton of material that psychoanalyzes the case.
I did end up supplementing the book with some YouTube searches and it enhanced my reading experience. Likely to cover her own butt (understandably), Derhally doesn't go in-depth into Chris's family and the likely dysfunction there... but a handy YouTube video went into more details on some things Shannan's mother has said that gave me a clearer picture, re: Chris's mom and sister that I found illuminating. Poor Shannan married into some horrible in-laws, basically. It was also very helpful to watch the police footage of the initial house search--I was better able to picture the house, and watching Chris is just chilling.
October 2, 2020
Finally, finally, FINALLY!!!
An in-depth book about WHY ON EARTH CHRIS WATTS KILLED HIS FAMILY! Before this, I already read The Perfect Father by John Glatt. And I put down the book with this sinking feeling that there must be more to it. As per my review on that book, it described about HOW, WHEN, WHAT, WHERE but not the WHY.
After listening to this book, I started to understand more about Chris Watts and his 'suspected' personality disorder (because they are not professionally diagnosed). From this book, it is clear that he is a narcissist and psychopath.
The author did a great job in describing many types of Narcistic Disorder - like covert and communal, which I never knew before. Then the psychopathic traits just give me chills. Imagine how can you live without ever felt remorse or empathetic to others??
A great example is when Chris Watts still remembered to pack his lunch to work even though he just killed his wife - and on his way to kill his daughters?
Another quote in this book that give me chills is something like this:
"They are my flesh and blood and I don't know what happened. I even read a book that says no dad would ever do anything to hurt his children. So I always asked myself, was I ever a dad at one point?"
Imagine he has to READ A BOOK to understand that no dad would hurt his children - a natural instinct and a basic knowledge of a normal father. He didn't have the normal feeling of wanting to protect his children from harm at all cost. Because it is easy for him to dispose and hurt his children when they get in the way from having what he wanted - in this case, a happy life with his mistress.
He is also a pathological liar who can lies and build this façade of a perfect and loving husband and father - when the truth is he felt nothing for them. This book gives the best insight and information on how to spot a psychopath around you. And most importantly, the blame is put entirely on Chris Watts - not the victim (Shanaán)
In conclusion, if you want to know why Chris Watts killed his family, and want to know more about Narcistic Personality Disorder and psychopathic traits, you should read this book. In fact, I think Chris Watts HIMSELF should read this book - to understand more about how his brain is wired - if he really want to change and repent himself.
An in-depth book about WHY ON EARTH CHRIS WATTS KILLED HIS FAMILY! Before this, I already read The Perfect Father by John Glatt. And I put down the book with this sinking feeling that there must be more to it. As per my review on that book, it described about HOW, WHEN, WHAT, WHERE but not the WHY.
After listening to this book, I started to understand more about Chris Watts and his 'suspected' personality disorder (because they are not professionally diagnosed). From this book, it is clear that he is a narcissist and psychopath.
The author did a great job in describing many types of Narcistic Disorder - like covert and communal, which I never knew before. Then the psychopathic traits just give me chills. Imagine how can you live without ever felt remorse or empathetic to others??
A great example is when Chris Watts still remembered to pack his lunch to work even though he just killed his wife - and on his way to kill his daughters?
Another quote in this book that give me chills is something like this:
"They are my flesh and blood and I don't know what happened. I even read a book that says no dad would ever do anything to hurt his children. So I always asked myself, was I ever a dad at one point?"
Imagine he has to READ A BOOK to understand that no dad would hurt his children - a natural instinct and a basic knowledge of a normal father. He didn't have the normal feeling of wanting to protect his children from harm at all cost. Because it is easy for him to dispose and hurt his children when they get in the way from having what he wanted - in this case, a happy life with his mistress.
He is also a pathological liar who can lies and build this façade of a perfect and loving husband and father - when the truth is he felt nothing for them. This book gives the best insight and information on how to spot a psychopath around you. And most importantly, the blame is put entirely on Chris Watts - not the victim (Shanaán)
In conclusion, if you want to know why Chris Watts killed his family, and want to know more about Narcistic Personality Disorder and psychopathic traits, you should read this book. In fact, I think Chris Watts HIMSELF should read this book - to understand more about how his brain is wired - if he really want to change and repent himself.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 9, 2020
If you aren't familiar with the Chris Watts case in Colorado, mild-mannered quiet helpful Chris strangled his pregnant wife, smothered his two daughters (ages 2 and 4) to be with his new love, Nicole. Chris really WAS the guy that everyone liked and no one saw this coming.
The author details the crime and with her background as a psychologist, she tries to determine if Chris is a sociopath, a malignant narcissist, etc. It really is chilling because Chris - up to until 5-6 weeks before the murder - had never exhibited any signs and his wife truly felt they had a great marriage and were in love. But Chris only mimicked emotions and could callously kill his wife, toss her facedown in a shallow grave and stuff his daughters into a remote oil tank. He stated "I felt nothing for my family."
I liked the book but felt there was a lot of repitition in establishing the pyschological explanation for Chris' acts and the author heavily depends on a book called Letters from Christopher: The Tragic Confessions of the Watts Family Murders that, unfortunately, has since been plagued with charges of plagarism from another true crime author. 3.5 stars.
Vist my new blog - I Love True Crime Books!
The author details the crime and with her background as a psychologist, she tries to determine if Chris is a sociopath, a malignant narcissist, etc. It really is chilling because Chris - up to until 5-6 weeks before the murder - had never exhibited any signs and his wife truly felt they had a great marriage and were in love. But Chris only mimicked emotions and could callously kill his wife, toss her facedown in a shallow grave and stuff his daughters into a remote oil tank. He stated "I felt nothing for my family."
I liked the book but felt there was a lot of repitition in establishing the pyschological explanation for Chris' acts and the author heavily depends on a book called Letters from Christopher: The Tragic Confessions of the Watts Family Murders that, unfortunately, has since been plagued with charges of plagarism from another true crime author. 3.5 stars.
Vist my new blog - I Love True Crime Books!
December 12, 2019
Great Book & Insights!
A deeper dive into the personality traits of Chris Watts and what led him to annihilate his beautiful family. No case has ever bothered me in such a way like this one has. Think I’ve read everything on it and have watched every last YouTube video + documentary on this case. Possibly because I feel a relatable connection being the same age as Shannan, in a relationship for 6 years with my daughters father. Similar personality traits, with me being the more dominant, type A and him being my opposite (similar to Chris’s personality). Two young daughters also. Had I ever met Shannan in person, we would’ve been fast friends, I just know it!
Sadly, I know exactly what she went through during those last 6 weeks, because I myself went through something similar. Flipped switch over night. Left wondering what the hell you did wrong, how to fix it and having a fearful, unshakable feeling of doom come over you. The only difference between us is that instead of me being the one to end up dead, it was my significant other who passed away, along with his little brother in the same tragic car accident.
Now being a psychology major, I finally found exactly what I’ve been looking for in this book. A breakdown of the psychopathy behind Chris Watts personality traits and behaviors that led him to life in prison. I feel like I have a better understanding after reading this and even though I knew every detail about this case prior; I actually enjoyed how the author wrote the series of events in chronological order; like a well written story and not just stating facts in a case.
After losing half my family, I thought I went crazy because the signs were ALL their beforehand. So much that I continuously showed people the physical evidence I had because I felt like I was losing all sense of reality. I’ve watched that YouTube video of a panicked Chris Watts shittin his pants at the neighbors house while watching himself on the surveillance footage, like 5 different times. However, it wasn’t until the other day after reading a persons random comment on a Watts documentary saying to take a better look at that video and keep your eye on the tv ad that comes on after the surveillance footage stops playing. I never noticed this before but it actually shows an unborn fetus inside a womb, then an explosion to skulls in crude oil!! This is beyond coincidental?! What are the odds?? Definitely Shannan trying to show what he had done or Chris projecting his guilty conscience. It’s seriously mind blowing to me and has reaffirmed my belief that their is more to this universe then any of us even know. My signs were real, just as Shannan’s and her mother’s were too. This is just more evidential proof!
A deeper dive into the personality traits of Chris Watts and what led him to annihilate his beautiful family. No case has ever bothered me in such a way like this one has. Think I’ve read everything on it and have watched every last YouTube video + documentary on this case. Possibly because I feel a relatable connection being the same age as Shannan, in a relationship for 6 years with my daughters father. Similar personality traits, with me being the more dominant, type A and him being my opposite (similar to Chris’s personality). Two young daughters also. Had I ever met Shannan in person, we would’ve been fast friends, I just know it!
Sadly, I know exactly what she went through during those last 6 weeks, because I myself went through something similar. Flipped switch over night. Left wondering what the hell you did wrong, how to fix it and having a fearful, unshakable feeling of doom come over you. The only difference between us is that instead of me being the one to end up dead, it was my significant other who passed away, along with his little brother in the same tragic car accident.
Now being a psychology major, I finally found exactly what I’ve been looking for in this book. A breakdown of the psychopathy behind Chris Watts personality traits and behaviors that led him to life in prison. I feel like I have a better understanding after reading this and even though I knew every detail about this case prior; I actually enjoyed how the author wrote the series of events in chronological order; like a well written story and not just stating facts in a case.
After losing half my family, I thought I went crazy because the signs were ALL their beforehand. So much that I continuously showed people the physical evidence I had because I felt like I was losing all sense of reality. I’ve watched that YouTube video of a panicked Chris Watts shittin his pants at the neighbors house while watching himself on the surveillance footage, like 5 different times. However, it wasn’t until the other day after reading a persons random comment on a Watts documentary saying to take a better look at that video and keep your eye on the tv ad that comes on after the surveillance footage stops playing. I never noticed this before but it actually shows an unborn fetus inside a womb, then an explosion to skulls in crude oil!! This is beyond coincidental?! What are the odds?? Definitely Shannan trying to show what he had done or Chris projecting his guilty conscience. It’s seriously mind blowing to me and has reaffirmed my belief that their is more to this universe then any of us even know. My signs were real, just as Shannan’s and her mother’s were too. This is just more evidential proof!
February 20, 2020
I received this book at no cost in exchange for an honest review.
The murders first caught my attention when the family of Christopher Watts went missing. It particularly grabbed my eye because of the way he behaved on interviews I saw on television.
I’ve been the victim of narcissistic abuse in my life by someone who I thought was a friend for a very long time. I ignored a lot of her behavior as her just being different, but as time went on, I realized she really had a deeply rooted mental problem. I put up with her treatment of me until one chilling moment when I realized I needed to cut off the friendship/relationship. I began to research and learn about narcissism, attachment disorder and the various traits of someone with those personality disorders.
When I saw the TV footage of this man, Chris Watts, I saw my former friend in his actions and in his demeanor and lack of affect. His demeanor was completely inappropriate for the circumstances he was in. It was alarming to watch and I knew then he’d done something awful to his family.
When given the chance to read this book, I was already curious about his mental makeup and since the author is a psychotherapist, I was intrigued to read it and get her perspective.
I wasn’t disappointed. She had meticulously researched the case as well as reviewing the forensic evidence. This included text messages from Shanann, Chris and his paramour as well as reviews of police reports, court transcripts, and interviews. Her discussions of certain mental disorders was intriguing. How she showed what was in Chris’ mind and his lack of remorse for his actions was validating in many ways with behavior I’ve witnessed for myself in my own experience. Of course, my experience wasn’t fatal, but so much of what she said rang true. I found myself nodding along as I read her words.
This was a horrific crime and this man should never be freed – it’s clear from the analysis of Derhally he doesn’t have the ability to feel remorse or be reformed.
The book was a hard read- not because it was complicated but because it was so tragic. Shanann trusted the wrong man – the man she thought loved her and her children. My heart hurts for her family and friends. I recommend this book – to TRY to understand this case. Those of us with normal psyches will have a difficult time understanding Chris Watts’ brain, but Derhally sheds light in those dark corners.
The murders first caught my attention when the family of Christopher Watts went missing. It particularly grabbed my eye because of the way he behaved on interviews I saw on television.
I’ve been the victim of narcissistic abuse in my life by someone who I thought was a friend for a very long time. I ignored a lot of her behavior as her just being different, but as time went on, I realized she really had a deeply rooted mental problem. I put up with her treatment of me until one chilling moment when I realized I needed to cut off the friendship/relationship. I began to research and learn about narcissism, attachment disorder and the various traits of someone with those personality disorders.
When I saw the TV footage of this man, Chris Watts, I saw my former friend in his actions and in his demeanor and lack of affect. His demeanor was completely inappropriate for the circumstances he was in. It was alarming to watch and I knew then he’d done something awful to his family.
When given the chance to read this book, I was already curious about his mental makeup and since the author is a psychotherapist, I was intrigued to read it and get her perspective.
I wasn’t disappointed. She had meticulously researched the case as well as reviewing the forensic evidence. This included text messages from Shanann, Chris and his paramour as well as reviews of police reports, court transcripts, and interviews. Her discussions of certain mental disorders was intriguing. How she showed what was in Chris’ mind and his lack of remorse for his actions was validating in many ways with behavior I’ve witnessed for myself in my own experience. Of course, my experience wasn’t fatal, but so much of what she said rang true. I found myself nodding along as I read her words.
This was a horrific crime and this man should never be freed – it’s clear from the analysis of Derhally he doesn’t have the ability to feel remorse or be reformed.
The book was a hard read- not because it was complicated but because it was so tragic. Shanann trusted the wrong man – the man she thought loved her and her children. My heart hurts for her family and friends. I recommend this book – to TRY to understand this case. Those of us with normal psyches will have a difficult time understanding Chris Watts’ brain, but Derhally sheds light in those dark corners.
May 7, 2024
This book was very well done. The author is a psychotherapist and she explained what she thought had happened in this case, in terms of why Chris Watts very suddenly did what he did, seemingly completely out of character.
The topic is difficult and emotional. Not easy.
Recommend for those who are already familiar with the case and who want to know more.
The topic is difficult and emotional. Not easy.
Recommend for those who are already familiar with the case and who want to know more.
June 8, 2020
Must Read
I really didn’t know what to expect when I bought this book. I, like most people, had followed the news on Chris Watts. I knew he had to be a monster and an evil person but I was honestly shocked at the depth of his madness. No remorse for taking the lives of his own children and wife? That scared me to my core.
I wished I had skipped the chapter (and there is a clear warning to avoid that chapter if it might trigger you) that details the killing of his family. I can’t stop thinking about it and I’ll never be the same after reading that.
The book is a great read with exceptional detailed descriptions of mental illnesses. I was intrigued to the very end.
I really didn’t know what to expect when I bought this book. I, like most people, had followed the news on Chris Watts. I knew he had to be a monster and an evil person but I was honestly shocked at the depth of his madness. No remorse for taking the lives of his own children and wife? That scared me to my core.
I wished I had skipped the chapter (and there is a clear warning to avoid that chapter if it might trigger you) that details the killing of his family. I can’t stop thinking about it and I’ll never be the same after reading that.
The book is a great read with exceptional detailed descriptions of mental illnesses. I was intrigued to the very end.
September 25, 2020
Oh. Is it weird to give a book about such a horrific topic 5 stars because I loved it? The information was great, well researched, good insight in the thought process of someone capable of such devastating actions.
April 18, 2023
It's a good insight in case.
April 15, 2020
3.5. Thanks to Libro FM for an ALC of this audiobook. My Daddy is a Hero recounts a horrendous act of familicide that occurred in the northern Denver suburbs. I live less than an hour away, so this story has played out in our local news for the past couple of years. This book describes the events leading up to the crime using media interviews and discovery documents from law enforcement. Some of these things I knew, but I thought how the author organized it all was meticulous and compelling. The author also describes the couple generally, how they met, and their families. Personally, I wish the author had discussed the social media and multi-level marketing aspect of this couple. Some parts felt a bit repetitive even though there was more material that could've been analyzed.
The second half of the book is more focused on understanding psychopathic and narcissistic behavior and being able to identify it. The author is a psychotherapist and couples counselor and though she definitely has many disclaimers about diagnosis, she still seems to believe these two personality disorders most closely align with the perpetrator. The perpetrator's turn to fake religiosity in prison is just... aggravating. Overall, a captivating and enraging listen.
The second half of the book is more focused on understanding psychopathic and narcissistic behavior and being able to identify it. The author is a psychotherapist and couples counselor and though she definitely has many disclaimers about diagnosis, she still seems to believe these two personality disorders most closely align with the perpetrator. The perpetrator's turn to fake religiosity in prison is just... aggravating. Overall, a captivating and enraging listen.
April 12, 2020
In-depth true crime
"Was Chris a nice guy who had a break from reality? Was he an evil psychopath? A narcissist? Something else? If he is a psychopath, how did he hide it for so long? How did Chris become like this? Was he born like this, or did he become this way over time? Were there any warning signs? Are there warning signs that I can look out for, so this doesn’t happen to me? These are all questions I have attempted to answer in this book . . ."
When I started this book, I had a very brief knowledge of the Watts case. I'd seen one sort-of documentary on YouTube. It left me wanting to know more, so this book was right up my alley--especially because my interest (obsession, let's be honest) in these true crime accounts is the psychology behind. Imago Relationship Therapy was an eye opener, that coupled with explained definitions of psychological diagnoses really put a spot light on who Chris REALLY was. While this book needs a good editor, it did go into depth and was well-organized, well-documented, and, well-defined giving great insight into the Watts case and what was hidden beneath.
"Was Chris a nice guy who had a break from reality? Was he an evil psychopath? A narcissist? Something else? If he is a psychopath, how did he hide it for so long? How did Chris become like this? Was he born like this, or did he become this way over time? Were there any warning signs? Are there warning signs that I can look out for, so this doesn’t happen to me? These are all questions I have attempted to answer in this book . . ."
When I started this book, I had a very brief knowledge of the Watts case. I'd seen one sort-of documentary on YouTube. It left me wanting to know more, so this book was right up my alley--especially because my interest (obsession, let's be honest) in these true crime accounts is the psychology behind. Imago Relationship Therapy was an eye opener, that coupled with explained definitions of psychological diagnoses really put a spot light on who Chris REALLY was. While this book needs a good editor, it did go into depth and was well-organized, well-documented, and, well-defined giving great insight into the Watts case and what was hidden beneath.
September 11, 2020
Been waiting for John Glatt's book The Perfect Father because I like his writing style but the book is 14,95 and I will never pay that much for something that will never be mine. It sucks because I now prefer reading on my e reader otherwise it would have been cheaper to buy the paperback. 9,99 but I would have to wait a year for it.
I tried finding a copy but to no avail so I decided to pick this one although I hate how this author is constantly telling the readers how to feel. Shannan is perfect and has no mistakes. Some authors do not understand that readers can make up their own minds about someone. They do not constantly have to add their thoughts and opinions into it.
Even if someone has faults they should never be murdered right?
3.5 stars
I tried finding a copy but to no avail so I decided to pick this one although I hate how this author is constantly telling the readers how to feel. Shannan is perfect and has no mistakes. Some authors do not understand that readers can make up their own minds about someone. They do not constantly have to add their thoughts and opinions into it.
Even if someone has faults they should never be murdered right?
3.5 stars
August 23, 2020
well done. this is exactly what i’m looking for when i read true crime, an answer to the question, “WHY???!!!” Derhally does a bang-up job. she’s a psychotherapist and doesn’t let up on Watts for a second. her analysis is so insightful, i learned more from this case study than i did from the small stack of books i’ve read by fbi profilers. her writing is good. even though i knew the details of the case, i read parts of this book several times with equal fascination. true crime may not be her passion, but i hope it’s her calling, because she has a gift for it and i’d like to hear more from her on the subject.
December 10, 2019
My Daddy is a Hero is a poignantly written true crime novel unlike any I’ve read before.The author provides an in-depth analysis of the roots of violence and psychology behind Chris Watt’s brutal and merciless slaughter of his two innocent young daughters and pregnant wife with gripping and masterful writing. The author does more than just regurgitate the tale of the Watt’s case facts and confession. She delves deeply into the psyche of Watts and gives the reader an intimate understanding of his shocking and heinous actions and the covert signs of a hidden psychopath.
December 10, 2019
Excellent Book
I’ve followed this case closely for a while now and, like most, have been baffled trying to understand how it could happen. Derhally presents a clear, well organized, and easy to read summary of the case with likely explanations for what kind of person Chris Watts is and the “perfect storm” of events that led up to this. Her information is well researched, with references provided.
I’ve followed this case closely for a while now and, like most, have been baffled trying to understand how it could happen. Derhally presents a clear, well organized, and easy to read summary of the case with likely explanations for what kind of person Chris Watts is and the “perfect storm” of events that led up to this. Her information is well researched, with references provided.
December 31, 2019
I was not able to read this book very fast since the case is very heavy. Sometimes i had to lay down the book after two chapters just to process it first.
I did so much research about the case and this was the first book i read about it. At the end when everything is explained on characteristics and personality disorders, it really gives an insight and explanation what might caused everything.
Great writing! Would recommend for anyone interested in the topic.
I did so much research about the case and this was the first book i read about it. At the end when everything is explained on characteristics and personality disorders, it really gives an insight and explanation what might caused everything.
Great writing! Would recommend for anyone interested in the topic.
August 6, 2020
I gave it four stars instead of five only because there aren’t many interviews with family or friends. That would have made the book perfect. If you are like me and didn’t read the discovery documents then this book is for you. The author gives alittle more insight on Watts and I believe it’s an honest insight. There are monsters out there. Some we can tell right away and some who will fool us. I highly recommend reading the book.
August 17, 2020
This senseless tragedy was depicted in a well researched and detailed chain of events throughout the book. This is a difficult crime to understand, but the author takes a look at the profile of who/what might lead someone to do such a horrible thing, even if they seem that they wouldn’t be capable of such a thing. She also provides warning signs and education to hopefully prevent future tragedies from occurring.
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