A very good book about the Columbo killings,in Chicago,1976.In depth coverage of the trail,that was not presented in LOVE'S BLOOD by clark howard(another great book,but more in patty columbo's words).Buy them both for a more complete view of this still shocking crime-25+ years later.

The tale of Patty Columbo and Frank DeLuca and the terrible murder of the Columbo family was totally gripping and engrossing - one of the best true crime books I have ever read, and I've read a lot of them. The author asked a basic question "What makes this 19-year-old girl go out and kill her parents and younger brother? " and then unravels the sordid tale. At the end of the book, I was definitely questioning everything about the case - especially Patty's involvement. The book tells the story from Patty's side and really delves into her subconscious and her memories. The only reason I did not give this book 5 stars was it did drag on for a while -- all the conversations and meetings with the "hit men" was a little overdone -- and there were some sections that were pretty sexually explicit. All I can say is, Frank DeLuca is a complete pervert and a total wacko and what a shame that Patty ever got involved with him -- it cost the lives of three people. A great true crime book, not up there with the likes of "Helter Skelter" or "Stranger Beside Me" . . . but a good read nonethless!

I read a lot of true crime books, and I bought this book thinking I would read just another true story of a murderess and her wrath. I started reading the book convinced of Patricia Columbo's guilt, but by the time I finished it, Clark Howard left me completely baffled with nagging questions. Did she do it? The book held my attention from start to finish -- the sexual abuse she suffered as a young girl, her disastrous relationship with the much older Frank DeLuca, the tragic murders of her family, and her life in prison up to the time the book was written. This is the first time I have actually felt, as another reader noted, a twinge of sorrow for someone convicted of a crime of this nature. The seriousness of the crimes were not lost on me, but I can't help but thinking where would she be if she had not met Frank DeLuca.

I truly enjoyed this book. I was pretty much convinced of Patricia Columbo's guilt until the very end -- now I'm not sure what to believe. But this much I know... it was one of the better true crime books I've read, and I've read hundreds!

Before planting your children in any setting, it's important to do your research. We live in a highly mobile society. Many of us have to rely on childcare outside the home. A book like the family resource guide helps us sort out our options and make the best choices for our children. However, I encourage you not to rely on this book alone -- do your own research and as always in parenting, trust your instincts!!!