[.ca] Ma Duncan (ISBN 1571973842)

WOW! What a story!:
True crime lovers will love this story about a diabolical woman who murders her daughter-in-law to keep her son. The detail is excellent, the book is easy to read, and very well written. The author captures Ma Duncan and really makes you see what an evil, crazy women she is. A must read for all!

Outstanding crime novel:
I found the book to be an easy and enjoyable read. Many years ago I saw old newspapers which mentioned the trial of Ma Duncan. After seeing this I've often wondered what acctually happened. Now I know. Captain Barrett does a wonderful job of bringing the people to life and giving the reader insight into each of the characters involved. A very thorough account about the killers, detectives and Ma Duncan, herself. Captain Barrett masterfully guides the reader into what motivates all of the players and describes, in detail, what drives them to become involved in this horrendous murder. A very well researched book; one that I also had trouble putting down after starting.

Our judicial system has hopefully changed!:
A facinating true story of a mother totally obsessed with jealousy over her own son. The last woman to be executed in California and feel the sensation as you are right there with Ma and her hired killers in the gas chamber, their last expressions. Great physcholical profiles of the hired killers and the woman who hired them. I often wondered what makes someone so cold about killing another and this book gives you some insight into that issue. The law in the 50's was certainly not what it is today, hopefully! Unbelievable how she masterminded this brutal crime, just a little old lady she was. If you like true crime stories, this is it! Could not put the book down to the very last page. Where is that meek son of hers today, I wondered. I don't like him very much!

NOT Mommy Dearest!!!!!:
I remember, as a child, hearing snippets of the Ma Duncan story from family friends who were members of the Ventura County D.A.'s office around that time. When I found out Jim Barrett had written a book about it, I could not wait to read it! From the moment I started the book, I did not put it down until I had finished!

Fascinating and well-written.:
I remember when this crime happened here in Southern CA. It hit me hard because I was pregnant, at the time, with my 2nd daughter. Now to read the complete story in such depth and detail almost 50 years later was a fascinating experience. Yet, this isn't just a dry crime report. Barrett has captured the essence of the characters and made them come to life. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and have recommended it to everyone I know who loves a good true crime. Patricia Fry www.matilijapress.com