Review: Murder In The Family by Burl Barer

Title: Murder In The Family
Author: Burl Barer
Publisher: WildBlue Press
Publication Date: June 21, 2016
Edition: Kindle (320 pages)

Murder In The Family by Burl Barer

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


The bodies of Nancy Newman (wife and mother), Melissa Newman (eight-years-old), and Angie Newman (three-years-old) were found brutally murdered in their home on March, 15, 1987. It was one of the most horrific crimes ever seen in Anchorage, Alaska, to date. 'Murder in the Family' is a detailed account of the investigation of the crime, apprehension of the suspect and the subsequent trial, conviction and sentencing of the perpetrator.

What makes this true crime book especially interesting is that the case marks the first time testimony was allowed by an FBI profiler and allotyping evidence was introduced in support of demonstrable proof of guilt--Both of which were very controversial at the time.

Burl Barer explains much of the early DNA science as it is used in this case as well as the procedural aspects involved, so if you're looking for a white-knuckle suspenseful read, this is likely not it. However, 'Murder in the Family' engaged me in a different way. There is much here about the psychology of the criminal mind and the police officers who worked relentlessly to solve the case up to and post conviction.