Definitely a novel work submerging yourself in entirely. It is a unique twist on a serial killer sort-of trope, with a psychological thriller aspect. This is a read that I finished in one day and was definitely work it!

Insightful and often emotional into the every day life of a serial killer and his family interactions. Not about the flash and fame, more about the overall character and dynamics. Will be devoured by true crime fans looking for context instead of hype.

Fantastic book for fans of true crime documentaries and podcasts. Kept my attention the whole time, and I found it fascinating to read all the details of April’s childhood and how she put all the puzzle pieces together later in life. I’m sure it’s haunting to not know who else is connected to her father’s crimes; it’s leaving ME very curious. Definitely recommend to anyone who likes true crime!

𝘙𝘢𝘪𝘴𝘦𝘥 𝘣𝘺 𝘢 𝘚𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘢𝘭 𝘒𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘳 is a gripping and horrifying book that is part-memoir and part-true crime story. In it, author April Balascio shares memories of her nomadic, traumatic childhood; provides details she’s learned regarding the troubled background and early crimes of her father, serial killer Edward Wayne Edwards; describes her later suspicions of her father and her call in to the police about his possible involvement in a double-homocide from decades earlier; and discusses his arrest, multiple convictions, and the aftermath of his life of cruelty and violence. Because of the abundance of information, a terrifyingly vivid portrait of Edwards is painted—a difficult, disturbed child whose misbehaviors were not properly corrected. A married father of five who volleyed between being a charming, fun family man and a brutal, sadistic abuser. A psychopath who damaged and took away lives to satisfy his ego and perverse desires.

Overall, 𝘙𝘢𝘪𝘴𝘦𝘥 𝘣𝘺 𝘢 𝘚𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘢𝘭 𝘒𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘳 is a well-written book that will engross those interested in true crime. In addition to showing once-cold cases getting solved with new information and testimonies, it offers a glimpse into the disturbing make-up and motivations of a killer and abuser and demonstrates how one man’s violence can have lasting ripple effects on multiple families and generations. I do feel like the last section of the book—which covered middle-aged Balascio piecing together painful memories, uncovering more uncomfortable truths about Edwards while participating in an investigative true crime podcast, and dealing with health issues and faltering family relationships—felt a bit rushed and more detached than previous chapters. But it’s possible that she is still working through and coming to terms with more recent events as well as protecting details about still-living members of her family. Nevertheless, I do recommend this book to true crime readers.

4.5 stars rounded up. Thank you to Gallery Books for an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.

Raised by a Serial Killer by April Balascio is a chilling and compelling memoir that gives a deep insight into a life shaped by unimaginable circumstances. April’s story is heartbreaking and inspiring as she navigates the shocking truth about her father. The writing is straightforward and honest, which makes the story even more powerful. While some parts of the book might feel slow, the narrative is gripping and thought-provoking. It’s a must-read for true crime fans and anyone interested in stories of resilience and survival.

Raised by a Serial Killer is a heartbreaking and gripping book. April Balascio describes in terrifying detail the upbringing she and her several siblings endured being raised by her psychopathic and criminal father (Edward Wayne Edwards) and her ineffective, depressed and also very abused mother. Indeed, her father was a serial killer. The father moved the family from town to town, state to state, which helped him evade capture. This also prevented the family members from developing the type of trusting connections that would cause people to notice and step in and help. Rather than trusting people enough to tell them what was happening in their world, they pretended and often believed that everything was normal. April’s strength, love for her family, and humanity come through the pages as she comes to understand that her father was responsible for many unsolved crimes. She is propelled to research and investigate and find the truth. Often difficult to read, April’s braveness is evident in this book. With thanks to Netgalley and Gallery Books for this ARC. My opinions are my own.

Thought provoking read where one really feels like they are walking through life with April. The memoir is easy to read and yet filled with so much depth and detail! There were parts that were extremely difficult to read yet truly laid the foundation for the book. As a school counselor, I really hope that I would pick up on ALL the red flags that April and her siblings were showing! Good grief schools we can do better and help these children.