Invisible Darkness

i am going to have a difficult time critiquing this one.

the book "Invisible Darkness" by Stephen Williams, is the story of Paul Bernardo and Karla Homolka. all of the disgusting and sordid details of the kidnap, rape and torture of 3 girls (one being her sister, whom she aided Bernardo in raping (by drugging her) and sexually assaulted while her sister was in a comatose state) i found it very difficult to get through this book, based on the fact of how descriptive Williams actually was. this book certainly isn't for the faint at heart.

Bernardo and Homolka's sick and twisted sexual fantasies made them desire female, teenage sex slaves. as we all know after the media firestorm that in return for all details on the case, Homolka was granted a 'blanket immunity', which set her free after only 12 years. (Bernardo is serving a life sentence, a shame us Canadian don't believe in the death penalty in cases such as these).

this book describes all of the mistakes and mix-ups on behalf of the police and fbi, things like granting Homolka this immunity before evening knowing half of what happened, to Bernardo's attorney withholding the "smoking gun" of videotapes of their horrendous crimes.

the end of the book was what made it enthralling, once you get past the parts of step by step detail of the rapes and murders, William's goes on to discuss all of the court proceedings. this if found interesting, how someone so blatantly guilty, was given such minimal punishment. (sound like another high profile case? ahem.. O.. J?).

after reading and understanding the facts of the case and all that surrounds it, it leads me to one burning question- IF it had been two men (Bernardo and a male NOT female Homolka) would he have gotten off as easily? OR were all involved so blind as to think a WOMAN could never commit such crimes, without a MAN'S influence?

for crime junkies, and biographical junkies "Invisible Darkness" is a definite read- but i will caution any and all interested that it truly isn't a book for all- you have to have a strong stomach to be able to relive the horrendous acts that were committed to these young girls.

FYI: Homolka was released July 4, 2005 after serving her 12 year sentence. She is said to be living in Antilles with her new born son and boyfriend.... how wonderful for her......