Bitter Harvest by Ann Rule (1998, Hardcover, Illustrated)

Ann Rule, known for her numerous true crime novels and superb story telling ability, presents the true story of Dr. Debora Green and her downward spiral from genius student to lethal mom and eventually life in prision.

Well written, presenting the facts with attention to detail, in an easy to read flow I devoured this story with interest as well as horror. Rule, exceptionally experienced in the field of true crime as a retired policewoman and lecturer she also served on the task force that established VI-CAP (Violent Criminal Apprehension Program at the FBI), strives to relate the story and is honest in her opinions - which for the most part she tries to leave out, letting the reader make up their mind. However you are left with the taste that Rule agreed that Dr. Green was guilty.

This is a story about a woman who, despite mental and emotional problems, managed to not only survive but excel in many areas of her life. Her problems, which looking back were evident to some degree throughout her life, eventually led to her downfall and to the death of 2 of her 3 children - and if the facts presented in this book are indeed correct she intended for all 3 to perish.

This is a must read for those interested in true crime as it provides a degree of psychological background and events leading up to the fateful Autumn that took the life of 2 innocent children. While Dr. Green would never have admitted nor seen her own need for help - her husband (soon to be x-husband) did see but unfortunately it was to little, to late. Dr. Green's abusiveness alone, toward herself and her family, should have been enough to allow for proper action - but it didn't.

This story leans more toward the psychological side of the story, looking to the why's more than the how's.