Blog Archives
Chained Birds: A True Crime Memoir
Chained Birds, by Carla Conti, is a compelling true crime memoir that delves into the wrongful conviction of Kevin Sanders, accused of a brutal stabbing within a maximum-security prison. The story isn’t just about the crime itself, which is described briefly. Instead, it focuses on the ten-year legal battle that followed. The author, writing under a pseudonym, is a close friend of Scott Powell, the attorney representing Kevin, and becomes personally involved when prison gangs take an interest in her role.
This memoir stands apart from the typical true crime genre. It isn’t just about the violent crime or the mystery of “whodunit.” Instead, it digs deep into the long, complex legal fight that followed the incident. Conti exposes the layers of corruption within the prison system, where self-preservation runs rampant, and uncovers the harsh reality of prison gangs that pull the strings behind the scenes. The book offers a rare look into how these underground groups exert control over nearly every aspect of prison life, creating a chilling backdrop to the wrongful conviction. What makes Chained Birds unique is its focus on the legal process rather than the crime. This is not the book for those seeking a fast-paced thriller full of suspense or shocking revelations. Instead, it’s for readers who appreciate the painstaking detail of legal proceedings. Conti doesn’t shy away from the courtroom minutiae, clarifying questions, procedural clarifications, and other aspects that most books would gloss over. At times, the narrative reads like a court transcript, which may feel slow or overly detailed for some, but it captures the authenticity of the drawn-out legal process.
Chained Birds offers a different kind of true crime experience. It’s a thought-provoking examination of justice, corruption, and the hidden world of prison power structures. This book is best suited for readers with an interest in the legal aftermath of crime, rather than the crime itself. If you’re fascinated by courtroom dramas and the inner workings of the legal system, this memoir will provide a deep and unsettling dive into both.
Pages: 438 | ASIN : B0DGYPXNNC
The Velvet Hammer: Judge Belvin Perry, Jr.’s Capital Murder Cases and Memoir
The Velvet Hammer by former Chief Judge Belvin Perry Jr. offers a unique perspective within the true crime genre. It sets itself apart from the usual narratives penned by detectives, third-party authors, or perpetrators. Instead, it is written by the judge who presided over some of the high-profile cases detailed within its pages. The title, a nod to his courtroom nickname, will be familiar to those who recognize Perry as the judge in the infamous Casey Marie Anthony case.
Perry acknowledges that many readers will be drawn to the book because of his role in the Anthony trial, and he does not disappoint. A significant portion of the book delves into this case, revealing behind-the-scenes details that even avid followers may have missed. Perry shares insights from the courtroom, including moments that weren’t captured by cameras or recorded in transcripts, offering a fresh perspective on a case that captivated the nation. Beyond the Anthony case, The Velvet Hammer explores Perry’s personal life and other significant cases he handled, such as the Judy Buenoano case, also known as the Florida Black Widow. These accounts provide valuable context for understanding Perry’s approach to the highly publicized Anthony trial. The book paints a picture of a judge who, while emotionally detached in his professional capacity, also grapples with the isolating nature of his role. Perry presents certain elements of the case in a matter-of-fact manner, avoiding excessive graphic detail. This makes The Velvet Hammer accessible to a broad audience, including those new to the true crime genre.
For seasoned true crime enthusiasts, the book is a must-read, offering a rare viewpoint from the bench—a perspective that is both judicially objective and personally reflective. Perry’s account sheds light on the complexities of the justice system and the inner workings of a judge’s mind. The Velvet Hammer is a compelling read for true crime aficionados and an excellent entry point for newcomers to the genre. Its balanced approach, combining legal insight with personal narrative, makes it a standout work that offers something unique in true crime literature.
Pages: 339 | ASIN : B0D98XVXB3
Wrongfully Convicted
Immunity for Murder: The Veronica Taft Story gives readers the account of a 23-year-old single mother of four who was wrongly convicted of manslaughter in her two-year-old son’s murder. What inspired you to tell her story?
Shortly after I became involved in Veronica’s defense, I recognized the unfolding travesty of injustice almost immediately. The evidence that clearly pointed to the real killer was overwhelming but brushed aside in the pursuit of Veronica. The case against Veronica was a total train wreck from the get-go. As a former NY state police investigator, I was appalled by what was happening. Often saying to myself, “This should not be happening.” But it did. And despite our best effort, Veronica was still wrongfully convicted. With the added tragedy of the real killer walking away free. Never to be held accountable. So, I was inspired to write her story, by knowing that a factually innocent woman was wrongfully convicted of a murder she didn’t commit. You really need to read the whole story.
Your book is not just a chronicle of a crime but an exploration of systemic failures affecting the marginalized and vulnerable in society. What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
The systematic failures in this case involved a concentrated and united team effort to arrest and prosecute Veronia Taft. Which included police investigators, supervisors, prosecutors, child protective services, a forensic pathologist and even extended to include civilian witnesses and a jailhouse snitch. What was important for me was to share, not only the various system failures but also how easily anyone like Veronica can be vulnerable and fall victim to these failures. In other words, it can happen to anyone.
What was one of the hardest parts of Immunity for Murder for you to write?
The hardest part for me was having to describe the graphic details of Lyric’s death. It’s certainly a hard read. Many of my readers have told me that it made them cry, including my wife. Yes, that was the hard part. Even though Veronica was anxious to have me write the book, I later asked her if she had read the book she said, “No, it’s too painful.” Indeed.
What is one thing you hope readers take away from your book?
I think the takeaway here should be straightforward. Police and prosecutors are necessary for our criminal justice system to work the way it was intended. However, that does not mean they are deserving of our blind trust and allegiance. Hopefully, this story helps to explain why. Take nothing at face value. Ask questions. Because things are not always what they appear to be.
Author Links: Goodreads | Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn | Website | Amazon
After more than five years in prison, Taft was set free after a bombshell Appellate Court decision found the verdict was against the weight of the evidence. The court overturned the theory and evidence used by authorities, including time-of-death, Taft’s alibi, and controversial testimony of a desperate jail-house snitch.
Working on behalf of Taft, Defense Investigator, David M. Beers conducted an independent investigation. In his account, Immunity for Murder, he’ll guide you through the ill-fated police investigation and the shameful prosecution that, contrary to the evidence, quickly turned the tides towards Veronica and away from the real killer. This book will look closely at the suspect, bizarre events, and disturbing facts never before revealed. Furthermore, it’ll show how the evidence proves Taft’s innocence, which is why he considers her story a tragic miscarriage of justice.
Immunity for Murder
Immunity for Murder: The Veronica Taft Story by David M Beers delves into the complex and heart-wrenching case of Veronica Taft, a young mother accused of her son’s murder. Beers masterfully presents the narrative with meticulous detail, weaving a tale of suspense that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The case, initially seeming straightforward, unfolds into a series of unexpected twists that deeply affect all involved.
The book epitomizes the adage “fact is stranger than fiction.” As an audiobook narrated by the author himself, it engages the listener from the outset. Beers skillfully interlaces past events with the ongoing investigation, adding depth and darkness to the story. The narrative is not just a chronicle of a crime but a poignant exploration of systemic failures affecting the marginalized and vulnerable in society. This story is not only a gripping legal saga but also a profound commentary on societal injustices. It prompts readers to consider how easily such tragedies could occur to others under similar circumstances. Despite its challenging subject matter, the book is accessible and engaging, suitable for both seasoned true crime enthusiasts and newcomers to the genre. David M Beers’ work is a compelling addition to the true crime library, offering a nuanced look at the intricacies of criminal investigation and legal proceedings. It’s particularly recommended for those interested in the meticulous details of criminal cases and their journey through the judicial system.
Immunity for Murder: The Veronica Taft Story is an enlightening read that offers a captivating narrative and insightful commentary on the broader implications of criminal justice. The book is well-researched and presents a balanced perspective on immunity in criminal cases. It is a superb audiobook for anyone interested in criminal justice and true crime stories.
Listening Length: 11 hours 33 min | ASIN : B0B33W6SBG
LITERARY TITAN 