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.