Crush: VERB 1) to press or squeeze with a force that deforms or destroys

by Carole Barker

When Mormon missionary Keith Barker meets Patty Jenkins, he is unaware that one step inside her home will catapult him into the life of an accomplished sociopath. Patty's life story includes rape, abuse, abandonment and alcoholic parents. She is in desperate need of a good friend. Keith's empathy for Patty leads to a physical relationship resulting in an unexpected pregnancy. Keith is sent home from his mission and his life soon spirals out of control.Patty travels cross-country by bus to marry Keith. It quickly becomes apparent that all is not what it seems with Patty. Her outlandish tales and amazing stories send the Barker family in search of answers about the stranger now living in their home. After his birth, Keith's son Steven is diagnosed with one illness after another, and Keith's suspicions fall squarely on Patty. Desperate for understanding, the Barker family finds answers in the study of psychopathic behavior. Keith's worst fears materialize as they investigate Munchausen by Proxy, a disorder where a parent, usually the mother, makes her own child sick in order to garner attention for herself. This is the true account of a ten year battle to save the life of Steven Barker.

172 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 2008

Reviews

[Jody · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very interesting true story about a Mormon man and his CRAZY sociopath ex wife and their fight of child custody. I know why read that depressing stuff? Our Church book group is reading the book and it is captivating and as the story continues in real time you can follow the grandmas blog.
It is a quick read.

[Gwen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! This mother shares a very stirring and emotional story about the battles their family endures while dealing with a sociopath. The behavior in this book is so incredible I can't help but feel that the author could not have written it so believably if it weren't completely true!

[Rachelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

An interesting story about munchausen by proxy. Very quick read.