Colin McEvoy

This is basically the story of Michael Ballard and his murder of 4 people: His girlfriend Denise, 2 other family members and a neighbor. The book was well-written and well researched. The authors interviewed this sociopathic killer for about 9 hours, so they did get a lot from him. Including the fact that he did not take any real responsibility for what he did. He blames it all on Denise and his belief that she was cheating on him. So he killed her and the others, rather than being a man and either talking to her or just moving on. His control issues did not allow this. I did like the book, but this killer really riles me up! He is the poster boy for the death penalty and deserves each one of the 4 death sentences he received.… (més)

The authors of this book are local journalists for an Easton, PA newspaper. Because my local library is hosting a book discussion next week with the authors in attendance, in anticipation of attending the session, I read this fascinating true crime story based on a local murder.

A debut novel for the journalists, it is exceedingly well written and engrossing. Rhonda Smith, a 42 year old attractive woman was murdered in cold blood, point blank with two gunshots to the head in a rural Springtown, PA church. The body was discovered by a friend, long-time member and cleaning person of the church. Her frantic 911 call alerted the police that something was wrong...very, very unusually wrong for an area known for its beautiful countryside and wholesome life style.

Saddened, terrified and concerned, the church members grew suspicious as they grieved the loss of a beloved parishioner. As the web of intrigue centered primarily on a 66, unattractive, socially inept choir member, the church and the community were increasingly in shock.

Stalked by Mary Jean Fonder, Rev. Gregory Shreaves previously alerted the church council that Mary Jean's behavior was frighteningly obsessive. Numerous rambling messages left on the pastor's answering machine were an indication that she needed to be told to cease. Acting as "Christians" the council did nothing.

Increasingly paranoiac and spinning out of control, Mary Jean held fast to the unfounded notion that her target was infatuated with Rhonda.

Using a gun previously purchased when she was fired from a local restaurant, Mary Jean Fonder slipped into the rural church when Rhonda was working in the office and eliminated what she believed to be her competition.

Sadly, Mary Jean's reality was not grounded in any reality.

When overwhelming evidence confirmed both the motive and the method, Mary Jean steadfastly claimed innocence.

A jury felt otherwise and today she serves a life sentence. As a side note, years prior to her murder of Rhonda, Mary Jean's father went missing. Facing severe health problems, it was highly unlikely that her father walked away from the property by himself. This case has never been solved.

Recommended!… (més)