Although the children were unaware of the murders going on, life at 25 Cromwell Street was certainly not wholesome or typical in any way. But ultimately it’s the reaction of Fred West to his arrest and subsequent trial that leaves the coldest impression on the reader. The book ends with an appendix providing a twelve page chronology of the most notable events of the whole case. Surprisingly short on content, the book is a quick read; there is so much more that can be told about the characters of the deranged pair and life growing up in the West household.

Their sister, Heather, was 16 when her parents murdered her after she tried to escape – then buried her in the garden.Super interesting to read about something that happened so close to home and strange to recognise a pot of the places written about. One thing I really enjoyed about reading this was the humanity of Fred and Rose which was revealed in a way that only children really can see about their parents. I have a vague notion of reading this book a long time ago, but it could be familiar because of the documentaries I have seen about the West family.

Even if she did not abuse anyone (doubtful)her beatings of Stephen was disgusting and shows how CRUEL she is. Fred had told Mae that it was his father who had taught him that it was a father’s duty to ‘break in’ his daughters. e. Stephen and Mae West’s words) were obtained, the book’s structure, and ultimately identifies the book as part of Stephen and Mae’s ‘rehabilitation process’. You can change your choices at any time by visiting Cookie preferences, as described in the Cookie notice. Stephen was close at times to his father but had to grow up so fast neither realished the horror under there feet and both seem really upset about there fathers actions.

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Tbh what I can't understand is HOW Mae still visits Rose and how mae +stephen have written this story sympathising with Rose +fred also. The book then concludes with a second Appendix publishing many of the letters that Fred and Rosemary West sent Stephen and Mae from prison (which makes for some surreal reading to say the least). Fred and Rose West truly felt that they could do whatever they wanted in their home, away from prying eyes. The book also includes eight pages of full colour photographs showing the West family at various times during their lives as well as snippets from inside 25 Cromwell St.Without wanting to appear overly sceptical, one can’t help but feel that the two editors (no doubt fellow reporters for said newspaper) are more concerned with milking the story for all its worth than the actual rehabilitative welfare of Stephen and Mae. Written by their children, who were no doubt in the house during some of their more hideous crimes, adds a personal touch which adds more depth to the book and makes a more engaging read.