American Black Widow

2.5 I would have enjoyed this a lot more if it wasn't for the rampant misogyny that the author felt was needed in order to illustrate what kind of person Sharon Nelson is. And yes, I recognize that much of the book features language used from people who were interviewed back in the 90s, which while awful to listen to I can understand was more acceptable back then, but as an author he didn't remain objective and continued to drive that narrative home.

What a missed opportunity to explore the reason Sharon became the person she is. There was a small portion of the book dedicated to abuse she experienced growing up, but no further inspection of the lasting effects of that trauma or the narcissistic, manipulative tactics she displayed time and time again. No, instead we get page after page of slut-shaming diatribes both by those interviewed and story narrative from the author.

Deeply disappointed at the writing because it certainly had the potential to be a fascinating true crime novel about the impacts that a strict religious upbringing, physical abuse, and emotional abandonment, had on Sharon to create the manipulative personality that impacted every person she ever came in contact with.

***Thank you to Bookouture Audio for providing me with the Audiobook for free via NetGalley for an unbiased review.