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"My Husband's Trying to Kill Me!": A True Story of Money, Marriage, and Murderous Intent
From an award-winning journalist, this “grippingly suspenseful true-crime tale details the foiling of a wealthy Texan’s plot to have his wife murdered” (Publishers Weekly).
To the world, Linda DeSilva’s marriage to Robert Edelman was perfect. He was her college boyfriend turned wealthy and successful husband, and the father of her children. But what friends and family didn’t know was that the Texas real estate tycoon who set her up with a luxurious life in Dallas was also her abuser. When she asked him for a divorce, the violence against her only escalated, until the shocking moment she learned her husband had hired an assassin to take her life.
From acclaimed journalist and author Jim Schutze, “My Husband’s Trying to Kill Me!” is the riveting true-crime account of how Linda DeSilva worked with the FBI to trap her husband before he could act on his murderous intentions—and how the sting operation nearly got her killed instead. A shocking and sensational story of a wife and mother’s escape from the marriage that went from American dream to every woman’s worst nightmare.
“Numbing.” —Kirkus Reviews
To the world, Linda DeSilva’s marriage to Robert Edelman was perfect. He was her college boyfriend turned wealthy and successful husband, and the father of her children. But what friends and family didn’t know was that the Texas real estate tycoon who set her up with a luxurious life in Dallas was also her abuser. When she asked him for a divorce, the violence against her only escalated, until the shocking moment she learned her husband had hired an assassin to take her life.
From acclaimed journalist and author Jim Schutze, “My Husband’s Trying to Kill Me!” is the riveting true-crime account of how Linda DeSilva worked with the FBI to trap her husband before he could act on his murderous intentions—and how the sting operation nearly got her killed instead. A shocking and sensational story of a wife and mother’s escape from the marriage that went from American dream to every woman’s worst nightmare.
“Numbing.” —Kirkus Reviews
396 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 1, 1992
194 people are currently reading
318 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
March 30, 2024
3⭐
Genre ~ true crime
Setting ~ New York, Oklahoma, Texas
Publication date ~ March 19, 2024 for my copy, but originally published in 1992!
Est page Count ~ 394 (8 chapters)
Audio length ~ 9 hours 26 minutes
Narrator ~ Jonathan Sleep
POV ~ multiple 3rd
Featuring ~ long chapters, domestic abuse
This takes place in the 1970's and follows Linda's marriage to Robert, an evil man. He verbally and physically abused her. She worked with the FBI in order to bring him down before he kills her first.
The chapters were so long, I mean there were only 8 for an almost 400 page book, so that made the book feel longer to me. The domestic abuse is on page, which I would expect since this is true crime. It was really hard to listen when her son was on page crying for his mother wondering why she wasn't answering his call. Heartbreaking all around.
I do feel like I was duped in that I thought this was a newly released book, but turns out it's a re-release from 32 years ago. I don't know why, but that really bugs me. I don't mind books published years ago, but I'd prefer a heads up, but maybe that's my fault for not doing my research. Overall, I think true crime fans would like this one.
Narration notes:
Jonathan did a good job and I stayed awake the whole time.
*Thanks to the author, Tantor Audio and NetGalley for the audio copy. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ Twitter
Genre ~ true crime
Setting ~ New York, Oklahoma, Texas
Publication date ~ March 19, 2024 for my copy, but originally published in 1992!
Est page Count ~ 394 (8 chapters)
Audio length ~ 9 hours 26 minutes
Narrator ~ Jonathan Sleep
POV ~ multiple 3rd
Featuring ~ long chapters, domestic abuse
This takes place in the 1970's and follows Linda's marriage to Robert, an evil man. He verbally and physically abused her. She worked with the FBI in order to bring him down before he kills her first.
The chapters were so long, I mean there were only 8 for an almost 400 page book, so that made the book feel longer to me. The domestic abuse is on page, which I would expect since this is true crime. It was really hard to listen when her son was on page crying for his mother wondering why she wasn't answering his call. Heartbreaking all around.
I do feel like I was duped in that I thought this was a newly released book, but turns out it's a re-release from 32 years ago. I don't know why, but that really bugs me. I don't mind books published years ago, but I'd prefer a heads up, but maybe that's my fault for not doing my research. Overall, I think true crime fans would like this one.
Narration notes:
Jonathan did a good job and I stayed awake the whole time.
*Thanks to the author, Tantor Audio and NetGalley for the audio copy. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ Twitter
March 17, 2024
⭐️4.5 stars⭐️
The events that unfolded in Linda Edelman’s life were so outlandish, this story truly sounded like a book of fiction. I cannot fathom the stress and trauma she and her children endured throughout the entire ordeal. My heart was racing and my anxiety was raging just listening to it!
And that group of friends…I want friends like that if I ever go missing. They were relentless! I mean it was almost to their detriment but thankfully they didn’t derail anything.
The story was well written and made it seem like a tale rather than just details of an event. I think that kind of writing makes for the best true crime novels.
The events that unfolded in Linda Edelman’s life were so outlandish, this story truly sounded like a book of fiction. I cannot fathom the stress and trauma she and her children endured throughout the entire ordeal. My heart was racing and my anxiety was raging just listening to it!
And that group of friends…I want friends like that if I ever go missing. They were relentless! I mean it was almost to their detriment but thankfully they didn’t derail anything.
The story was well written and made it seem like a tale rather than just details of an event. I think that kind of writing makes for the best true crime novels.
March 14, 2024
Can you imagine being married to someone for years and then everything implodes and next thing you know your life is at risk. This was a great listen. It took me a moment to get into the narrator, Jonathan Sleep. After the first chapter it was easy listening and finished in less than 2 days. The story is well put together and reads just like a murder podcast story.
Thank you to NetGalley, Tantor Audio, and Jim Schutze for an audiobook in exchaznge for an honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley, Tantor Audio, and Jim Schutze for an audiobook in exchaznge for an honest review.
October 21, 2023
This had potential, but is also its own worse enemy. It wasn’t edited well at all. It doesn’t transition scenes well. The dialogue was also poorly written. For a true story, the dialogue read like a caricature. The quality definitely went down as the book was went on, which I found odd. While I was interested in the story throughout, the book didn’t leave me satisfied.
August 14, 2010
This book was pretty good. It is based on a true story, but it was kinda pedictible and the story line lagged. But overall the book was ok.
May 20, 2024
Thank you to Tantor Audio for the ALC to review.
Jim Schutze is a well known journalist in Dallas, and when I saw he was the author of this book in addition to it being a true crime case in Dallas I could not pass it up, plus it was available via audio which was a bonus. It did not disappoint, this was a CRAZY case, especially for back then (this was originally published in 1992). The narrator was just ok but the story was what I was really here for. Linda drove me nuts at times and I echoed her attorney’s and the FBI’s frustration with the fact that she was not connecting the fact that her husband had hired an assassin to take her life and if she wanted to stay alive she had to go along with their plan. I was captivated from the start with this one and it was intense until the very end. If you like true crime then I definitely recommend this one.
Jim Schutze is a well known journalist in Dallas, and when I saw he was the author of this book in addition to it being a true crime case in Dallas I could not pass it up, plus it was available via audio which was a bonus. It did not disappoint, this was a CRAZY case, especially for back then (this was originally published in 1992). The narrator was just ok but the story was what I was really here for. Linda drove me nuts at times and I echoed her attorney’s and the FBI’s frustration with the fact that she was not connecting the fact that her husband had hired an assassin to take her life and if she wanted to stay alive she had to go along with their plan. I was captivated from the start with this one and it was intense until the very end. If you like true crime then I definitely recommend this one.
April 3, 2024
Narrated by Jonathan Sleep ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
by Jim Schutze ⭐⭐⭐
A very interesting story of Murder for Hire.
This true crime story is written like a fiction novel which Is an interesting way to do it, can't say I loved the style and it took me a while to get my head around it but overal it was good.
by Jim Schutze ⭐⭐⭐
A very interesting story of Murder for Hire.
This true crime story is written like a fiction novel which Is an interesting way to do it, can't say I loved the style and it took me a while to get my head around it but overal it was good.
March 9, 2024
"My Husband's Trying to Kill Me!": A True Story of Money, Marriage, and Murderous IntentOMG! I am a sucker for a good true crime story. I 100% would recommend reading/listening to this book! I listened to the whole book in 1 day!
Trigger warnings: Crime, Domestic violence, language
I did listen to the audio book. Honestly at first I didn't like the narration, however it defiantly improved. I just felt like at the beginning of the book the narrator was trying too hard, or just sounded off, but he did relax and it sounded more natural and was much easier to listen too.
It is hard to tell much about the story w/o spoilers so lets just say....
This book includes a Texas family, murder for hire, FBI, and sounds so insane it's hard to believe its true. Not to mention the twists and turns your not sure what will happen.
#goodreads #NetGalley #Amazon #TrueCrime #MyHusbandsTryingtoKillme
Trigger warnings: Crime, Domestic violence, language
I did listen to the audio book. Honestly at first I didn't like the narration, however it defiantly improved. I just felt like at the beginning of the book the narrator was trying too hard, or just sounded off, but he did relax and it sounded more natural and was much easier to listen too.
It is hard to tell much about the story w/o spoilers so lets just say....
This book includes a Texas family, murder for hire, FBI, and sounds so insane it's hard to believe its true. Not to mention the twists and turns your not sure what will happen.
#goodreads #NetGalley #Amazon #TrueCrime #MyHusbandsTryingtoKillme
September 7, 2024
From the outside, Linda DeSilva and Robert Edelman have the perfect marriage. Together since college, Robert turned into a wealthy real estate tycoon. Linda may live in luxury, but she also lives with her abuser.
Having had enough of it, Linda asked for a divorce, which only escalates the violence towards her.
In the midst of her divorce, she's told that Robert has put a hit out on her. Linda works with the FBI to trap her husband before the hit can be completed.
"A shocking and sensational story of a wife and mother’s escape from the marriage that went from American dream to every woman’s worst nightmare." (Synopsis)
I listened to the audiobook of this novel, and it was fantastic! It was intense!
Having had enough of it, Linda asked for a divorce, which only escalates the violence towards her.
In the midst of her divorce, she's told that Robert has put a hit out on her. Linda works with the FBI to trap her husband before the hit can be completed.
"A shocking and sensational story of a wife and mother’s escape from the marriage that went from American dream to every woman’s worst nightmare." (Synopsis)
I listened to the audiobook of this novel, and it was fantastic! It was intense!
March 18, 2024
This was so disturbing and almost unbelievable on so many levels. It almost felt like a movie. This really explored the complexities of a physically abusive marriage and divorce that ends with the husband plotting to kill his wife. Everything that Robert said and did made me so angry. My heart was racing just listening to Linda's story unfold. All I can say is that if I ever went missing, I wish my friends and family would rally like Linda's did. They were relentless and determined to find their friend.
Overall, this was a well-written true crime novel that had me absolutely enraptured.
Thank you to Tantor Audio and Netgalley for the audio arc of this book!
Overall, this was a well-written true crime novel that had me absolutely enraptured.
Thank you to Tantor Audio and Netgalley for the audio arc of this book!
March 27, 2024
This...got annoying.
So, originally this was published by HarperCollins in 1992/1993. And if I'm being honest, we should have left it there.
I LOVE true crime. And this is an interesting story - in fact, they made a movie about it in the 90s.
Linda is trying to get away from her abusive husband, Robert. But Robert is a narcissist and simply wants to win. That means he has to have all the money and he DEFINITELY has to win the children in the custody battle. Even though he doesn't particularly like the children.
When Linda gets a new lawyer and it looks like Robert might lose, he decides to hire someone to kill his wife.
Luckily, the FBI find out there was a hit and they decide to set up a second hit with one of their men. They're going to fake Linda's death, and arrest Robert.
Only it kind of falls apart. The FBI are messy. Linda and her family are messy. And her friends are SUPER messy. And by that, I mean they are busy bodies who are like EXCUSE US, OUR FRIEND IS MISSING AND WE'RE GONNA FIND HER! Which is exactly what you want in a friend, but not what you want if you are the FBI and trying to pull off a sting.
I've got a few issues with this book.
1. It's LONG. I'm sorry this is essentially about a divorce and a hired hit. This audiobook is like 12 hours long. That's the length you should save for serial killers who have a long history.
2. While the narrator did a good job, it's weird to have a male narrator when it's essentially a female story. It feels....odd.
3. This is written as a narrative, not a non-fiction book. This means there's a lot of "Linda sighed." Like, did she? Are we sure? I just found it annoying. And because it's a true story you can't take a lot of liberties, which means you end up with a more "tell and not show" type of writing.
4. The children. Holy crap did they become annoying. And I say that because, again, this was written narratively so the author clearly took some liberties with how dramatic the children acted by not being able to get a hold of their mother. The little boy immediately starts to wail and say his mom has been murdered, and he never lets up. And it is annoying to listen to. Again, I think it's how it was written and not because this poor child literally thought his mother had died, which I'm sure he did, and I'm sure he was distraught. But again, it's the writing.
5. I don't think she ever says, "My Husband's Trying to Kill Me." In fact, it seems like she didn't know he was trying to. Linda seemed pretty naïve the entire book.
I know true crime is super popular, and I am all for revisiting content that was already produced and getting it back out there, but I think this is one that could have been left back in the 90s.
So, originally this was published by HarperCollins in 1992/1993. And if I'm being honest, we should have left it there.
I LOVE true crime. And this is an interesting story - in fact, they made a movie about it in the 90s.
Linda is trying to get away from her abusive husband, Robert. But Robert is a narcissist and simply wants to win. That means he has to have all the money and he DEFINITELY has to win the children in the custody battle. Even though he doesn't particularly like the children.
When Linda gets a new lawyer and it looks like Robert might lose, he decides to hire someone to kill his wife.
Luckily, the FBI find out there was a hit and they decide to set up a second hit with one of their men. They're going to fake Linda's death, and arrest Robert.
Only it kind of falls apart. The FBI are messy. Linda and her family are messy. And her friends are SUPER messy. And by that, I mean they are busy bodies who are like EXCUSE US, OUR FRIEND IS MISSING AND WE'RE GONNA FIND HER! Which is exactly what you want in a friend, but not what you want if you are the FBI and trying to pull off a sting.
I've got a few issues with this book.
1. It's LONG. I'm sorry this is essentially about a divorce and a hired hit. This audiobook is like 12 hours long. That's the length you should save for serial killers who have a long history.
2. While the narrator did a good job, it's weird to have a male narrator when it's essentially a female story. It feels....odd.
3. This is written as a narrative, not a non-fiction book. This means there's a lot of "Linda sighed." Like, did she? Are we sure? I just found it annoying. And because it's a true story you can't take a lot of liberties, which means you end up with a more "tell and not show" type of writing.
4. The children. Holy crap did they become annoying. And I say that because, again, this was written narratively so the author clearly took some liberties with how dramatic the children acted by not being able to get a hold of their mother. The little boy immediately starts to wail and say his mom has been murdered, and he never lets up. And it is annoying to listen to. Again, I think it's how it was written and not because this poor child literally thought his mother had died, which I'm sure he did, and I'm sure he was distraught. But again, it's the writing.
5. I don't think she ever says, "My Husband's Trying to Kill Me." In fact, it seems like she didn't know he was trying to. Linda seemed pretty naïve the entire book.
I know true crime is super popular, and I am all for revisiting content that was already produced and getting it back out there, but I think this is one that could have been left back in the 90s.
March 29, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley, Cantor Audio and the author for an advanced reading copy of this book.
Okay fellow murderinos wondering if this book is your next read, you definitely should. This is book is like binging an entire season of your favorite true-crime podcast without having to wait a week between episodes.
Wow. This story is absolutely insane and Linda DeSilva is one badass lady. This is a story of incredible tracking, investigating and plotting on both DeSilva's side and her husband (who is barking mad by the way). Who goes into a marriage thinking there is ever a possibility of your husband hiring a hitman to kill you...especially when you have children together.
This book felt very relevant (regardless of this being a republication) considering the true crime podcasts and stories in the news now. I honestly was not even aware that it was a republication until writing this review. Plus it bridges so many different genres of reading: psychological thriller, domestic violence and family drama, true-crime, narrative nonfiction, and mystery. It is not exactly a who done it- as we absolutely know who is being everything, but the can we save Linda before it's too late and will they be able to catch Robert Edelman (the husband)?
This did take me a little while to get into, but I would say after a few chapters I listened almost straight through. You become very invested in Linda and her story. I couldn't stop reading because I needed to know if she made it or not.
This book was a reminder of the horrors that some women experience in their lives while also reminding us of the relentless spirit and resilient drive to survive inside all of us. Horrifying, yet empowering at the same time?
There were also some very sarcastic, dry-humor jokes throughout that made me chuckle despite the seriousness of the story at hand, which I enjoyed. It made all of the individuals within the story seem like real people, rather than just characters.
As for the narration, Jonathan Sleep did well with providing emphasis where it was needed and also sounded genuine in his reading.
Okay fellow murderinos wondering if this book is your next read, you definitely should. This is book is like binging an entire season of your favorite true-crime podcast without having to wait a week between episodes.
Wow. This story is absolutely insane and Linda DeSilva is one badass lady. This is a story of incredible tracking, investigating and plotting on both DeSilva's side and her husband (who is barking mad by the way). Who goes into a marriage thinking there is ever a possibility of your husband hiring a hitman to kill you...especially when you have children together.
This book felt very relevant (regardless of this being a republication) considering the true crime podcasts and stories in the news now. I honestly was not even aware that it was a republication until writing this review. Plus it bridges so many different genres of reading: psychological thriller, domestic violence and family drama, true-crime, narrative nonfiction, and mystery. It is not exactly a who done it- as we absolutely know who is being everything, but the can we save Linda before it's too late and will they be able to catch Robert Edelman (the husband)?
This did take me a little while to get into, but I would say after a few chapters I listened almost straight through. You become very invested in Linda and her story. I couldn't stop reading because I needed to know if she made it or not.
This book was a reminder of the horrors that some women experience in their lives while also reminding us of the relentless spirit and resilient drive to survive inside all of us. Horrifying, yet empowering at the same time?
There were also some very sarcastic, dry-humor jokes throughout that made me chuckle despite the seriousness of the story at hand, which I enjoyed. It made all of the individuals within the story seem like real people, rather than just characters.
As for the narration, Jonathan Sleep did well with providing emphasis where it was needed and also sounded genuine in his reading.
Read
March 14, 2024In My Husband‘s Trying To Kill Me by Jim Schutze, we hear about Linda de Silva and her marriage to Robert Edelman. When they met she was a songbird on campus at Oklahoma State she loves Disney movies and her family and soon she would fall in love with ROBERT as well.
He was a knight and shining armor the big man on campus and eventually Linda’s husband unfortunately he turned out to be your stereo typical Texas bully and all that implies. He was a man with no sympathy in that extended to the two children they would have Steven and Kathleen when she decided it was time to get a divorce and she couldn’t take his abuse anymore at first it seemed he would be OK with it but once he figured out that Linda would beat him in the court system he couldn’t let that happen in this is when he hired Colonel Young to kill Linda and her parents. This is when the comedy of errors that almost jeopardized the case started happening. The FBI including Linda’s divorce lawyer Ike Mc Ikelson had a plan to keep Linda safe it’s too bad they didn’t tell the others in Linda’s life. This was such a good book we don’t hear much about the trial as a matter of a fact it’s only in the epilogue they mention it but if you like True Crime and Love win a really bad annoying bully gets his due then you’ll definitely love this book. This is the first True Crime book that made me laugh and win Mary Ellen and Janet got it in their mind Linda was in trouble it seemed every thing they did made me laugh especially the scarecrow. Not everything in this book is funny but the comedy relief was definitely needed and absolutely appreciated. We should all have good friends like those two women I had the audiobook version and thoroughly enjoyed it I thought the narrator did a perfect job and definitely knows how to set the tone and gave a totally professional and stellar performance. I want to thank Tantore audio and net galley for my free arc copy please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.
He was a knight and shining armor the big man on campus and eventually Linda’s husband unfortunately he turned out to be your stereo typical Texas bully and all that implies. He was a man with no sympathy in that extended to the two children they would have Steven and Kathleen when she decided it was time to get a divorce and she couldn’t take his abuse anymore at first it seemed he would be OK with it but once he figured out that Linda would beat him in the court system he couldn’t let that happen in this is when he hired Colonel Young to kill Linda and her parents. This is when the comedy of errors that almost jeopardized the case started happening. The FBI including Linda’s divorce lawyer Ike Mc Ikelson had a plan to keep Linda safe it’s too bad they didn’t tell the others in Linda’s life. This was such a good book we don’t hear much about the trial as a matter of a fact it’s only in the epilogue they mention it but if you like True Crime and Love win a really bad annoying bully gets his due then you’ll definitely love this book. This is the first True Crime book that made me laugh and win Mary Ellen and Janet got it in their mind Linda was in trouble it seemed every thing they did made me laugh especially the scarecrow. Not everything in this book is funny but the comedy relief was definitely needed and absolutely appreciated. We should all have good friends like those two women I had the audiobook version and thoroughly enjoyed it I thought the narrator did a perfect job and definitely knows how to set the tone and gave a totally professional and stellar performance. I want to thank Tantore audio and net galley for my free arc copy please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.
March 22, 2024
Title: Gripping Tale of Survival: "My Husband's Trying to Kill Me!" Audiobook Review
Jim Schutze's "My Husband's Trying to Kill Me!" delivers a chilling account of Linda DeSilva's harrowing journey from the facade of a perfect marriage to the reality of a life-threatening situation. Narrated with intensity and empathy, the audiobook plunges listeners into the depths of DeSilva's turmoil, making for a riveting listening experience.
Schutze skillfully unveils the layers of deception and abuse lurking beneath the surface of what appeared to be an ideal life. DeSilva's courage in confronting her abuser and her resilience in the face of escalating danger are portrayed with gripping detail, keeping listeners on the edge of their seats throughout.
The audiobook's strength lies in its ability to convey the emotional and psychological toll of domestic violence, as well as the complexities of escaping such a perilous situation. DeSilva's collaboration with the FBI to ensnare her husband adds a thrilling dimension to the narrative, showcasing both the power of determination and the risks involved in seeking justice.
Narrator's delivery enhances the story's impact, capturing the tension, fear, and ultimately, the triumph of survival. Each chapter unfolds with a sense of urgency, propelling listeners forward as they root for DeSilva's liberation from her nightmarish circumstances.
Despite the dark subject matter, "My Husband's Trying to Kill Me!" offers a message of hope and empowerment. It serves as a reminder of the strength found within individuals facing adversity and the importance of breaking the silence surrounding domestic violence.
In conclusion, Jim Schutze's audiobook is a compelling exploration of one woman's fight for freedom and justice. Gripping and thought-provoking, "My Husband's Trying to Kill Me!" is a must-listen for those drawn to true-crime narratives and stories of resilience against all odds.
Jim Schutze's "My Husband's Trying to Kill Me!" delivers a chilling account of Linda DeSilva's harrowing journey from the facade of a perfect marriage to the reality of a life-threatening situation. Narrated with intensity and empathy, the audiobook plunges listeners into the depths of DeSilva's turmoil, making for a riveting listening experience.
Schutze skillfully unveils the layers of deception and abuse lurking beneath the surface of what appeared to be an ideal life. DeSilva's courage in confronting her abuser and her resilience in the face of escalating danger are portrayed with gripping detail, keeping listeners on the edge of their seats throughout.
The audiobook's strength lies in its ability to convey the emotional and psychological toll of domestic violence, as well as the complexities of escaping such a perilous situation. DeSilva's collaboration with the FBI to ensnare her husband adds a thrilling dimension to the narrative, showcasing both the power of determination and the risks involved in seeking justice.
Narrator's delivery enhances the story's impact, capturing the tension, fear, and ultimately, the triumph of survival. Each chapter unfolds with a sense of urgency, propelling listeners forward as they root for DeSilva's liberation from her nightmarish circumstances.
Despite the dark subject matter, "My Husband's Trying to Kill Me!" offers a message of hope and empowerment. It serves as a reminder of the strength found within individuals facing adversity and the importance of breaking the silence surrounding domestic violence.
In conclusion, Jim Schutze's audiobook is a compelling exploration of one woman's fight for freedom and justice. Gripping and thought-provoking, "My Husband's Trying to Kill Me!" is a must-listen for those drawn to true-crime narratives and stories of resilience against all odds.
March 13, 2024
I received this audiobook from NetGalley for an honest review.
Personally, I found this book challenging, particularly in its opening chapters. I felt a need for more background information about the couple and their shared history. The book shared that the husband transformed from a non-aggressive and kind individual to one exhibiting such traits due to workplace issues, but never showed that progression. This portrayal made it difficult to grasp his character's evolution. Although the book mentioned their college sweetheart status, it failed to explore this aspect further. Additionally, the audiobook occasionally resembled a theatrical performance, which undermined the authenticity of the events depicted. Furthermore, the ending provided only a brief glimpse into the husband's fate, leaving me wishing for more closure on that front. Overall, I would rate this book 3.75 stars. While it held my interest, I hesitate to recommend it to others.
"To the world, Linda DeSilva’s marriage to Robert Edelman was perfect. He was her college boyfriend turned wealthy and successful husband, and the father of her children. But what friends and family didn’t know was that the Texas real estate tycoon who set her up with a luxurious life in Dallas was also her abuser. When she asked him for a divorce, the violence against her only escalated, until the shocking moment she learned her husband had hired an assassin to take her life. From acclaimed journalist and author Jim Schutze, “My Husband’s Trying to Kill Me!” is the riveting true-crime account of how Linda DeSilva worked with the FBI to trap her husband before he could act on his murderous intentions—and how the sting operation nearly got her killed instead. A shocking and sensational story of a wife and mother’s escape from the marriage that went from American dream to every woman’s worst nightmare."
Personally, I found this book challenging, particularly in its opening chapters. I felt a need for more background information about the couple and their shared history. The book shared that the husband transformed from a non-aggressive and kind individual to one exhibiting such traits due to workplace issues, but never showed that progression. This portrayal made it difficult to grasp his character's evolution. Although the book mentioned their college sweetheart status, it failed to explore this aspect further. Additionally, the audiobook occasionally resembled a theatrical performance, which undermined the authenticity of the events depicted. Furthermore, the ending provided only a brief glimpse into the husband's fate, leaving me wishing for more closure on that front. Overall, I would rate this book 3.75 stars. While it held my interest, I hesitate to recommend it to others.
"To the world, Linda DeSilva’s marriage to Robert Edelman was perfect. He was her college boyfriend turned wealthy and successful husband, and the father of her children. But what friends and family didn’t know was that the Texas real estate tycoon who set her up with a luxurious life in Dallas was also her abuser. When she asked him for a divorce, the violence against her only escalated, until the shocking moment she learned her husband had hired an assassin to take her life. From acclaimed journalist and author Jim Schutze, “My Husband’s Trying to Kill Me!” is the riveting true-crime account of how Linda DeSilva worked with the FBI to trap her husband before he could act on his murderous intentions—and how the sting operation nearly got her killed instead. A shocking and sensational story of a wife and mother’s escape from the marriage that went from American dream to every woman’s worst nightmare."
March 20, 2024
After reading many thrillers back-to-back, I decided I was overdue for a true crime novel, which meant it was time to read "My Husband's Trying to Kill Me!”: A True Story Of Money, Marriage, And Murderous Intent by Jim Schutze. Of course, it was this title that caused my initial interest, and I was honestly very curious to find out if the husband succeeded.
The opening chapters share the wife's memories while she hides away in a remote vacation home, feeling threatened and fearing the worst for her life. From these memories, it is easy to grasp that the husband is both controlling and violent, with their relationship laid out in all its horrors. The storyline then moves to the sting operation, while the wife is again depicted at the secluded lake-front home. This timeline shift deviated from the typical linear fashion and almost gave the book a fictional feel stylistically.
This true crime was especially difficult to read as the couple’s children were present for the violence and were emotionally devastated during the sting, not knowing about the operation; the same ringing true for the wife's close family members. Slowly, information was divulged to those closest to the wife, but then I found myself screaming as I read, scared that the truth would be leaked to the husband.
The audiobook narration sounded flat, and far too much like a news anchor; I had wanted more inflection with their voice in order to create extra drama and foreboding. I expected a voice more in line with John Walsh’s (America’s Most Wanted).
I want to add that this book was originally published on September 1, 1992, and there were some phrases used that gave me pause as they are just not common place today. I wished this book was edited and adjusted to align with the social norms of today.
Thank you NetGalley and Tantor Audio for the complimentary copy to read and review.
The opening chapters share the wife's memories while she hides away in a remote vacation home, feeling threatened and fearing the worst for her life. From these memories, it is easy to grasp that the husband is both controlling and violent, with their relationship laid out in all its horrors. The storyline then moves to the sting operation, while the wife is again depicted at the secluded lake-front home. This timeline shift deviated from the typical linear fashion and almost gave the book a fictional feel stylistically.
This true crime was especially difficult to read as the couple’s children were present for the violence and were emotionally devastated during the sting, not knowing about the operation; the same ringing true for the wife's close family members. Slowly, information was divulged to those closest to the wife, but then I found myself screaming as I read, scared that the truth would be leaked to the husband.
The audiobook narration sounded flat, and far too much like a news anchor; I had wanted more inflection with their voice in order to create extra drama and foreboding. I expected a voice more in line with John Walsh’s (America’s Most Wanted).
I want to add that this book was originally published on September 1, 1992, and there were some phrases used that gave me pause as they are just not common place today. I wished this book was edited and adjusted to align with the social norms of today.
Thank you NetGalley and Tantor Audio for the complimentary copy to read and review.
March 18, 2024
My Husband's Trying to Kill Me! is a dramatized version of the true story of Linda DeSilva during her divorce from Robert Edelman in 1987. Their rocky and abusive marriage is introduced in a nonlinear fashion at the beginning of the book with flashbacks between the present and key moments of distress throughout the marriage. After years of violence, Linda seeks a divorce from Robert, only to be entangled in a messy battle for custody of the children that culminates in Robert taking out a hit on Linda's life. The FBI are tipped off to the conspiracy and work with Linda to fake her own death and finally build a case against Robert to put him behind bars.
I enjoy true crime, but I didn't love this book. There are a number of cliched characters and plotlines, which seems like a strange choice considering it's based on real people (e.g. Ja as the "magical negro"). Maybe this was more of an acceptable writing style when the book was originally published in 1992, but it comes off as a bit tone-deaf and hackneyed today. I also felt the choice to provide the plot in a non-linear manner buried the lead and made the rest of the story feel anti-climactic. It's hard to balance telling a story in an interesting way when it's based on real events, but I don't think this was the best version of that genre.
Thanks to NetGalley for the audiobook ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoy true crime, but I didn't love this book. There are a number of cliched characters and plotlines, which seems like a strange choice considering it's based on real people (e.g. Ja as the "magical negro"). Maybe this was more of an acceptable writing style when the book was originally published in 1992, but it comes off as a bit tone-deaf and hackneyed today. I also felt the choice to provide the plot in a non-linear manner buried the lead and made the rest of the story feel anti-climactic. It's hard to balance telling a story in an interesting way when it's based on real events, but I don't think this was the best version of that genre.
Thanks to NetGalley for the audiobook ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 11, 2024
My Husband's Trying to Kill Me! by Jim Schutze - audiobook narrated by Jonathan Sleep
Thank you, NetGalley, the publisher, and author for the chance to listen to this audiobook! I did not realize this was published over 30 years ago, and this was a re-release. The audiobook was somewhat slow paced and took me a couple of days (with life happening) to get through this, but it was a decent read. The narrator diffrentiates character voices to mostly know who is speaking or thinking.
For fans of true crime, I feel that this book is worth the read, especially being someone in the state and familiar with the location that this took place - Dallas, Texas. The story had gripping moments that I wanted to rush through to hear what happened next, but then there were also some pretty sad parts to hear and to put yourself in the shoes of the family. I feel hesitant to comment on the complete interest or lack thereof for a true story, because this would be no fault of the author as to how the story unfolded. I can say there are no real gruesome moments like in some true crime, but definitely edge of your seat at times.
This was my honest opinion and review of this audiobook, granted to me by NetGalley.
Thank you, NetGalley, the publisher, and author for the chance to listen to this audiobook! I did not realize this was published over 30 years ago, and this was a re-release. The audiobook was somewhat slow paced and took me a couple of days (with life happening) to get through this, but it was a decent read. The narrator diffrentiates character voices to mostly know who is speaking or thinking.
For fans of true crime, I feel that this book is worth the read, especially being someone in the state and familiar with the location that this took place - Dallas, Texas. The story had gripping moments that I wanted to rush through to hear what happened next, but then there were also some pretty sad parts to hear and to put yourself in the shoes of the family. I feel hesitant to comment on the complete interest or lack thereof for a true story, because this would be no fault of the author as to how the story unfolded. I can say there are no real gruesome moments like in some true crime, but definitely edge of your seat at times.
This was my honest opinion and review of this audiobook, granted to me by NetGalley.
March 16, 2024
Many thanks to NetGalley and Tantor Audio for gifting me an audio ARC of this true crime story by Jim Schutze, narrated by Jonathan Sleep - 4 stars!
Linda DeSilva married her college boyfriend, Robert Edelman, who became a wealthy real estate tycoon. To the outside, they were the perfect family, with two children, and led a glamorous life in Dallas. But the reality was quite different behind closed doors, where Robert was cruel and violent. Then she learned he hired a hit man to kill her. This is the story of how Linda worked with the FBI to trap her husband in a sting operation that nearly went very badly wrong.
I'm a big true crime reader and this book, like so many in this genre, was disturbing on so many levels. This is a re-release of a book written in 1993 and while I would hope that we as a society have grown into a better understanding of domestic violence, these situations of course continue to happen. In this book, neighbors and family knew and suspected of the abuse, but no one said or did anything until Linda went missing. My only comment about this book was that I thought the transition between timelines was abrupt. It could be because of listening to it rather than reading it, but I would have to pause to figure out where the story was taking place.
Linda DeSilva married her college boyfriend, Robert Edelman, who became a wealthy real estate tycoon. To the outside, they were the perfect family, with two children, and led a glamorous life in Dallas. But the reality was quite different behind closed doors, where Robert was cruel and violent. Then she learned he hired a hit man to kill her. This is the story of how Linda worked with the FBI to trap her husband in a sting operation that nearly went very badly wrong.
I'm a big true crime reader and this book, like so many in this genre, was disturbing on so many levels. This is a re-release of a book written in 1993 and while I would hope that we as a society have grown into a better understanding of domestic violence, these situations of course continue to happen. In this book, neighbors and family knew and suspected of the abuse, but no one said or did anything until Linda went missing. My only comment about this book was that I thought the transition between timelines was abrupt. It could be because of listening to it rather than reading it, but I would have to pause to figure out where the story was taking place.
March 17, 2024
This audiobook made me understand why the prosecution had a hard time with their case. I may be biased as a criminal defense lawyer, but this audiobook made me not like Linda.
This audiobook needed a female narrator. The male narrator has a great voice for male characters, but his voices for women and children bothered me so much I would have stopped listening if not for this being a NetGalley book. All of the women in this audiobook come off as being whiny, neurotic, and stupid because of how their voices were portrayed.
The story of how Linda was set up to be murdered should have been thrilling and fast paced, but it wasn’t. The story itself could do with some restructuring and reframing to make Linda come off as more sympathetic. It seems like the book was written by someone who didn’t particularly like Linda or most women.
For example, the amount of times Linda asks why or is confused is framed as an annoyance to whoever is currently talking to her. Instead of treated with sympathy and understanding that Linda was going through the most stressful time in her life.
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for allowing me to review this audiobook. I did not enjoy this book, but it seems like I am the outlier here.
This audiobook needed a female narrator. The male narrator has a great voice for male characters, but his voices for women and children bothered me so much I would have stopped listening if not for this being a NetGalley book. All of the women in this audiobook come off as being whiny, neurotic, and stupid because of how their voices were portrayed.
The story of how Linda was set up to be murdered should have been thrilling and fast paced, but it wasn’t. The story itself could do with some restructuring and reframing to make Linda come off as more sympathetic. It seems like the book was written by someone who didn’t particularly like Linda or most women.
For example, the amount of times Linda asks why or is confused is framed as an annoyance to whoever is currently talking to her. Instead of treated with sympathy and understanding that Linda was going through the most stressful time in her life.
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for allowing me to review this audiobook. I did not enjoy this book, but it seems like I am the outlier here.
March 23, 2024
My Husband's Trying to Kill Me is a true crime story that ocurred in Dallas, Texas in the 1980s. The story started very interesting and I enjoyed learning about the couple's marriage and subsequent divorce proceedings. When we got to the point that her husband was trying to kill her I was suprised to see that there was still 60% of the story to go.
The pace of the book changed dramatically at that point and became very slow. Every conversation was relayed in sometimes excrutiating detail. The dialogue was stilted and honestly made some of the characters sound entitled, hysterical and not very bright. This could have been magnified by the narrator's voice choices for the female characters.
This book could have been very good if the author had spent less time on some of the minutia and spent more time discussing the back story of the marriage and covered the subsequent trial with more detail.
At the end of the story is when we learn that the book was originally written in 1992 and was only now being reissued as an audio book. I would have liked a quick chapter updating where the important characters were now 30 years later.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
The pace of the book changed dramatically at that point and became very slow. Every conversation was relayed in sometimes excrutiating detail. The dialogue was stilted and honestly made some of the characters sound entitled, hysterical and not very bright. This could have been magnified by the narrator's voice choices for the female characters.
This book could have been very good if the author had spent less time on some of the minutia and spent more time discussing the back story of the marriage and covered the subsequent trial with more detail.
At the end of the story is when we learn that the book was originally written in 1992 and was only now being reissued as an audio book. I would have liked a quick chapter updating where the important characters were now 30 years later.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
April 19, 2024
NetGalley ARC audio
Linda's marriage to the successful Robert seems perfect from the outside, but Robert is abusive and cruel. Linda eventually finds the strength to leave Robert. What follows seems to insane to be true. While going through a contentious divorce, the FBI discovers that Robert has taken out a hit on Linda. Linda must fake her disappearance, telling on one but her lawyer and parents. The FBI has an airtight plan, Linda's parents would report her missing at a certain kind of date to a specific police officer. The FBI didn't count on small town Dallas and the fact that Linda is important to her community. Friends and family know immediately that something is wrong.
While this seems like the plot of a crime procedural, there are very real emotions involved. What Linda, her family and friends go through is gut wrenching. Linda must leave her children, telling them nothing. The children are already traumatized by the divorce and time with their father. Linda's friends are convinced she is dead. The author goes into details about the situation.
The narrator does a great job.
Linda's marriage to the successful Robert seems perfect from the outside, but Robert is abusive and cruel. Linda eventually finds the strength to leave Robert. What follows seems to insane to be true. While going through a contentious divorce, the FBI discovers that Robert has taken out a hit on Linda. Linda must fake her disappearance, telling on one but her lawyer and parents. The FBI has an airtight plan, Linda's parents would report her missing at a certain kind of date to a specific police officer. The FBI didn't count on small town Dallas and the fact that Linda is important to her community. Friends and family know immediately that something is wrong.
While this seems like the plot of a crime procedural, there are very real emotions involved. What Linda, her family and friends go through is gut wrenching. Linda must leave her children, telling them nothing. The children are already traumatized by the divorce and time with their father. Linda's friends are convinced she is dead. The author goes into details about the situation.
The narrator does a great job.
March 18, 2024
I’m always interested in these true life “my spouse tried to kill me” stories. I should have been a psychologist instead of my current profession because it interests me so much reading about these types of stories. Why would someone do this to another human, much less to someone they loved at some point in their life? We do get the answers to these questions, but it’s really sad to find out why and how the husband has decided to put a hit on his wife and the mother of his children.
Overall I found this book interesting and well written. The author did a great job telling the story of a controlling and deceitful husband. And the intelligent wife who fought hard for her life and her children’s lives. The narrator of this audio did a great job as well. I would definitely recommend this book for any true crime fan.
***Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC copy in return for an honest review***
Overall I found this book interesting and well written. The author did a great job telling the story of a controlling and deceitful husband. And the intelligent wife who fought hard for her life and her children’s lives. The narrator of this audio did a great job as well. I would definitely recommend this book for any true crime fan.
***Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC copy in return for an honest review***
March 17, 2024
A big thank you to NetGalley, Jim Schutze, and Tantor Audio for advanced access to the audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
This is a re-release from 30 years ago. I had never heard of the case, nor had I read the book. I love true crimes, so this audiobook was right up my alley!
I had a hard time with the narration for the first few chapters. I wasn't able to re-listen to it to pinpoint what it was about it that made it hard to get through though. As the story went on I felt the narrator was express and kept me engaged!
The marriage between Linda DeSilva and Robert Edelman was toxic to say the least. The book tells How Linda worked with the FBI to avoid her husband murdering her and her family.
Trigger warnings-Profanity, child abuse, domestic abuse
I would recommend this book to any true crime lover.
This is a re-release from 30 years ago. I had never heard of the case, nor had I read the book. I love true crimes, so this audiobook was right up my alley!
I had a hard time with the narration for the first few chapters. I wasn't able to re-listen to it to pinpoint what it was about it that made it hard to get through though. As the story went on I felt the narrator was express and kept me engaged!
The marriage between Linda DeSilva and Robert Edelman was toxic to say the least. The book tells How Linda worked with the FBI to avoid her husband murdering her and her family.
Trigger warnings-Profanity, child abuse, domestic abuse
I would recommend this book to any true crime lover.
March 19, 2024
Thank you Netgalley for this audio edition of "My Husband's Trying to Kill Me!" by Jim Schutze.
This is a totally bonkers true story of a woman who had to work closely with the FBI in order to save her own life from her husband who had hired a hitman to kill her. On reading reviews it looks like this is a release of a book that has been out for a long time, so, now you know.
The story itself is great, it's crazy, it's stranger than fiction. The writing and narration drove me a bit crazy. Sometimes we just don't need all the dialogue, it was overdone, and the narration made everyone sound clueless and whiny. I doubt that they were whiny, but I guess I'd feel a little clueless if I was in their situation too. However, if the author had cut down on the cheesy dialogue, the story itself probably would have been a lot more readable.
Still worth the story.
This is a totally bonkers true story of a woman who had to work closely with the FBI in order to save her own life from her husband who had hired a hitman to kill her. On reading reviews it looks like this is a release of a book that has been out for a long time, so, now you know.
The story itself is great, it's crazy, it's stranger than fiction. The writing and narration drove me a bit crazy. Sometimes we just don't need all the dialogue, it was overdone, and the narration made everyone sound clueless and whiny. I doubt that they were whiny, but I guess I'd feel a little clueless if I was in their situation too. However, if the author had cut down on the cheesy dialogue, the story itself probably would have been a lot more readable.
Still worth the story.
June 6, 2024
For years, Linda was married to Robert, an abusive jerk that the book describes as having pasty white man boobs. When it seems like Linda might win the kids in the divorce, Robert tries to hire an assassin to kill Linda. That goes about as well as it ever does, and the majority of the book is about the sting operation that Linda, her divorce lawyer, and the FBI put together to catch and prosecute Robert.
Pro: the framing. This true crime story reads like a thriller, complete with scenes of Linda staring out over a lake and wondering when the killer is coming for her.
Con: it's a fairly boring crime, really. Man hires hit, hit man has conscience, man gets caught. Everyone knows man is guilty because he's the sort of man you'd expect to try to kill his wife. Life goes on.
Pro: the framing. This true crime story reads like a thriller, complete with scenes of Linda staring out over a lake and wondering when the killer is coming for her.
Con: it's a fairly boring crime, really. Man hires hit, hit man has conscience, man gets caught. Everyone knows man is guilty because he's the sort of man you'd expect to try to kill his wife. Life goes on.
March 7, 2025
To everyone else, Linda DeSilva's marriage to Robert Edelman looked perfect. He was her college sweetheart who became a successful and wealthy husband, and they had kids together. But what people didn't know was that this Texas real estate mogul who gave her a lavish life in Dallas was also abusing her. Things got worse when she asked for a divorce, and then she found out he hired a hitman to kill her.
"My Husband's Trying to Kill Me!" by Jim Schutze is a thrilling true-crime story. It tells how Linda teamed up with the FBI to catch her husband before he could go through with his plan, even though the operation nearly cost her life.
This gripping story shows how Linda fought to get away from a marriage that went from a dream to a nightmare, highlighting her bravery and determination.
"My Husband's Trying to Kill Me!" by Jim Schutze is a thrilling true-crime story. It tells how Linda teamed up with the FBI to catch her husband before he could go through with his plan, even though the operation nearly cost her life.
This gripping story shows how Linda fought to get away from a marriage that went from a dream to a nightmare, highlighting her bravery and determination.
March 12, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of an ARC for my honest opinion.
I love true crime and thrillers. This book hits both. I had not heard of this true crime prior to listening to My Husband's Trying to Kill Me. Jim Schutze did a fantastic job telling the story and keeping me hooked! Without giving much away I'll say that I was on the edge of my seat hoping everything worked out at the end.
The narrator did a great job. Kids voices seem to be a hit or miss with narrators but he nailed it.
I love true crime and thrillers. This book hits both. I had not heard of this true crime prior to listening to My Husband's Trying to Kill Me. Jim Schutze did a fantastic job telling the story and keeping me hooked! Without giving much away I'll say that I was on the edge of my seat hoping everything worked out at the end.
The narrator did a great job. Kids voices seem to be a hit or miss with narrators but he nailed it.
March 13, 2024
I devoured this audiobook in the span of two days, it’s that good! Unlike any other true crime book I’ve read, this one makes you forget it’s a true case because it reads more like a suspense. If you enjoy true crime podcasts (especially serialized ones), then I highly recommend this audiobook. I had never heard of the Robert Edelman case before reading this and the author does an excellent job at presenting it in a well-researched and engaging way.
Huge thank you to NetGalley, Jim Schutze, and Tantor Audio for the free audio-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Huge thank you to NetGalley, Jim Schutze, and Tantor Audio for the free audio-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
March 21, 2024
3.5 rounded to 4 stars
I received this audiobook via @Netgalley to listen to and review.
This read like a true crime podcast, which I loved. What I didn't love was that the story wasn't really in chronological order, making it difficult to follow the sequence of events. The descriptions of the events that led to the attempted murder of Linda were terrifying and well written. Robert was a horrible person, which goes without saying. It's a good audiobook for true crime lovers and would be great to listen to while working or driving to pass the time.
I received this audiobook via @Netgalley to listen to and review.
This read like a true crime podcast, which I loved. What I didn't love was that the story wasn't really in chronological order, making it difficult to follow the sequence of events. The descriptions of the events that led to the attempted murder of Linda were terrifying and well written. Robert was a horrible person, which goes without saying. It's a good audiobook for true crime lovers and would be great to listen to while working or driving to pass the time.
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