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Losing Jon: A Teen's Tragic Death, a Police Cover-Up, a Community's Fight for Justice
A PopSugar Best True Crime Book of 2020
"The twists and turns read like a page-turning thriller, but Losing Jon is all fact. This is true crime at the highest of levels. Scary, heartbreaking and completely insightful."
--Brad Meltzer, #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Escape Artist
David Parrish was in disbelief when he learned that nineteen-year-old Jon Bowie's body had been found hanged from a backstop at the local high school's baseball field and the death declared a suicide. David had known Jon and his twin brother since they were boys. He had coached them on the baseball field and welcomed them into his home for sleepovers with his own sons. However, when David learned how Jon's body was found, he felt compelled to find the facts behind this incomprehensible tragedy.
Soon, David would learn of a brutal incident at a local motel where Jon and his brother had been severely beaten by police officers, the charges filed against those officers, and the months of harassment and intimidation Jon and his brother endured. Few in the utopian community of Columbia, Maryland, believed Jon could commit such a final act. Like many others, David wondered how a fateful night of teens blowing off steam could lead to such a tragic end. As law enforcement failed to find answers and seemed intent on preventing the truth from surfacing, David uncovered a system of cover-ups that could only lead to one conclusion--Jon's death was an act of murder.
"A true page turner, filled with almost-too-unbelievable-to-be-true details of one community's fight to find justice for one of its own . . . the issues raised, particularly when it comes to questions of police brutality and cover-ups, are very much relevant today."
--New York Times bestselling author Lisa Pulitzer
Includes 16 Pages of Photographs
"The twists and turns read like a page-turning thriller, but Losing Jon is all fact. This is true crime at the highest of levels. Scary, heartbreaking and completely insightful."
--Brad Meltzer, #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Escape Artist
David Parrish was in disbelief when he learned that nineteen-year-old Jon Bowie's body had been found hanged from a backstop at the local high school's baseball field and the death declared a suicide. David had known Jon and his twin brother since they were boys. He had coached them on the baseball field and welcomed them into his home for sleepovers with his own sons. However, when David learned how Jon's body was found, he felt compelled to find the facts behind this incomprehensible tragedy.
Soon, David would learn of a brutal incident at a local motel where Jon and his brother had been severely beaten by police officers, the charges filed against those officers, and the months of harassment and intimidation Jon and his brother endured. Few in the utopian community of Columbia, Maryland, believed Jon could commit such a final act. Like many others, David wondered how a fateful night of teens blowing off steam could lead to such a tragic end. As law enforcement failed to find answers and seemed intent on preventing the truth from surfacing, David uncovered a system of cover-ups that could only lead to one conclusion--Jon's death was an act of murder.
"A true page turner, filled with almost-too-unbelievable-to-be-true details of one community's fight to find justice for one of its own . . . the issues raised, particularly when it comes to questions of police brutality and cover-ups, are very much relevant today."
--New York Times bestselling author Lisa Pulitzer
Includes 16 Pages of Photographs
256 pages, Paperback
First published April 28, 2020
219 people are currently reading
4386 people want to read
About the author
David Parrish
1 book58 followersDavid Parrish writes about witnessing the unexpected twists and turns of a disturbing and often-frightening journey through the criminal justice system and beyond. Losing Jon takes place in Columbia, Maryland, a planned community once advertised as New America where he and his wife raised their two sons and still live. He grew up in a blue-collar family near Durham, North Carolina, and graduated with a B.A. in English at the University of North Carolina.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
March 23, 2020
This was a good true crime book by author David Parrish that’s coming out next month (April 2020). It certainly got my attention and kept me involved with the story of twin brothers Mickey and Jon Bowie, who were at a party in a motel room one night when the cops were called over a noise complaint. There were a group of others there that night too, but the twin Bowie brothers ran afoul of the anger and received the brunt of the punishment of the police that night. It was really over the top. The aftermath left ongoing animosity between several of the cops and the underage partiers. The twins, with Jon in particular, was being harassed daily. Tt gets really twisted a few nights later when Jon is found dead, and the mystery is on to figure out how it really happened. Many twists in this true crime book. Advanced electronic review copy was provided by NetGalley, author David Parrish and Citadel.
May 30, 2020
Hooked from the beginning this page turning true crime story was both captivating and infuriating.
19 yr old Jon Bowie is dead under very suspicious circumstances. This book explains the ordeal his family and friends go through in order to discover the truth while being harassed and intimidated by the police.
When his death was ruled a suicide by the police and the medical examiner, author David Parrish knew that Jon wouldn't have taken his own life. He was Jon's former baseball coach, knew the family well, and worked diligently for justice and to clear Jon's name.
The author did a wonderful job researching this complex story and capturing the community's response to the tragic events.
An important story to tell!
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for an arc of this novel in exchange for my honest review.
19 yr old Jon Bowie is dead under very suspicious circumstances. This book explains the ordeal his family and friends go through in order to discover the truth while being harassed and intimidated by the police.
When his death was ruled a suicide by the police and the medical examiner, author David Parrish knew that Jon wouldn't have taken his own life. He was Jon's former baseball coach, knew the family well, and worked diligently for justice and to clear Jon's name.
The author did a wonderful job researching this complex story and capturing the community's response to the tragic events.
An important story to tell!
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for an arc of this novel in exchange for my honest review.
March 30, 2020
Whoaaaaa..... a very emotive account of the still largely unanswered mystery surrounding the apparent suicide of a young man.
The suggestion of a murder and police involvement had me hooked from the synopsis, and it didn’t disappoint.
Eerily written, this is a wonderful yet sad and harrowing story for true crime fans everywhere.
The suggestion of a murder and police involvement had me hooked from the synopsis, and it didn’t disappoint.
Eerily written, this is a wonderful yet sad and harrowing story for true crime fans everywhere.
September 6, 2020
My rating is 3.5 (but i round down since we can’t do half stars)
I won this book through a giveaway in exchange for an honest review.
Urgh! I’m not going to lie, I am honestly a bit bummed about the way this book turned out. I was excited to read it! As soon as I saw it in a giveaway, I entered it right then and there! The story was a little bit confusing in the beginning with the way it jumped around, but it did keep me interested. My main issue is that the entire book felt like it kept leading me to some sort of final answer that never came. It just kept bringing about more questions. I understand that this is based on a true story, so they can’t just make up endings for the sake of the readers, and I don’t want them to. That would take away from the realness and truth of it all. I guess I just wish the ending had elaborated more on the finalities of the case and the main players. I’m left with so many questions and I hate it! I read this book all the way to the end BECAUSE I wanted to know what really happened. And if you can’t give me that, then at least give me some speculation. Lol.
I won this book through a giveaway in exchange for an honest review.
Urgh! I’m not going to lie, I am honestly a bit bummed about the way this book turned out. I was excited to read it! As soon as I saw it in a giveaway, I entered it right then and there! The story was a little bit confusing in the beginning with the way it jumped around, but it did keep me interested. My main issue is that the entire book felt like it kept leading me to some sort of final answer that never came. It just kept bringing about more questions. I understand that this is based on a true story, so they can’t just make up endings for the sake of the readers, and I don’t want them to. That would take away from the realness and truth of it all. I guess I just wish the ending had elaborated more on the finalities of the case and the main players. I’m left with so many questions and I hate it! I read this book all the way to the end BECAUSE I wanted to know what really happened. And if you can’t give me that, then at least give me some speculation. Lol.
May 13, 2020
*Thank you, Netgalley and publisher, for giving me a copy of this book.
This book is very strange. I think the author wrote it because he wanted people to know and remember Jon, and that is understandable. But sometimes it seemed a fictional story, with so many psychics and unrelated random things happening all the time. It was hard to remember that it is real because it's so frustrating that the case wans't even resolved and that police was so corrupt and incompetent. That is real life, I know, but I just thought we were getting somewhere with all this and that didn't happen.
R.I.P Jon Bowie.
This book is very strange. I think the author wrote it because he wanted people to know and remember Jon, and that is understandable. But sometimes it seemed a fictional story, with so many psychics and unrelated random things happening all the time. It was hard to remember that it is real because it's so frustrating that the case wans't even resolved and that police was so corrupt and incompetent. That is real life, I know, but I just thought we were getting somewhere with all this and that didn't happen.
R.I.P Jon Bowie.
April 26, 2020
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Check out the full review on my website. CLICK HERE
REVIEW :
DISCLAIMER : Thank you Netgalley and Kensington Books for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
David Parrish's Losing Jon is a harrowing account of a teenager's death following a night of partying under suspicious circumstances. The whole book is written to bring out the police brutality in Howard county and the steps the police, FBI, and other officials took to cover up the crime. The book was engaging and gripping in its storytelling. I was interested in finding out what had happened to Jon Bowie and hoped to God the murderer/murderers were caught. The book takes us through Jon and Mickey's lives as they navigate their school and college. Jon and Mickey were twins and they were one night partying at a motel with 12 other friends when police came knocking on their door. Everything that happened from there is quite surreal, almost movie-like but sadly true. The accounts from the witnesses and fellow students all report that excessive force was used on the students by the police. Later the kids were harassed and followed and stalked by the police. And one night the body of Jon was seen by a jogger hanging from the baseball backstop. The whole incident is horrific and on top of that, the way the police and FBI behaved towards the victims was simply disturbing and cruel. They were intentionally framing the kids and also trying to make it seem like Jon committed suicide and not handling the proper investigation to solve the crime. The blase way the whole case was handled and the other incidents surrounding it are all one big mess of incompetency on the legal system as well. I was hooked from the beginning and the more I read the more I was drawn to the case. I felt bad for the family, friends, and victims. I was frustrated and angry and emotional through the book. I thought the book was going to be a solid 5-stars book for me and it was going to be giving us the answers to the case and how it got resolved. Let's just say that didn't happen and I was highly disappointed by it. The book ended abruptly and we don't get to see or find out how Jon Bowie dies. There are no answers to some of the questions that were frequently asked throughout the book, and adding to the confusion we have psychics and their prediction muddying everything. I am confused and disappointed by the way the case was closed and on top of that, we do not get answers to the important points made in the book. I wish the author addressed them and help resolve the issues. The book simply leaves readers with the family moving on with their lives because Jon appeared to them and told them to let it go. After all of the struggle and pain and hard work, it just seems like we are left in the dark with more questions than answers. I don't believe justice was served to the families involved, the case got closed without proper investigations, and there are too many people whose roles feels undefined in the entire case. I gave the book 3.5 stars and it would have been a 5 star read if not for the way the book ended. I sincerely hope the family got their answers and they are at peace. I can't imagine the pain and turmoil the family must have been in following Jon's untimely death. I pray the wrongdoers were all brought to justice and they answered for their failures to provide the closure for the family. I believe this is an important story and everyone should read this book to be aware of the brutality and possible cover-up of crimes committed by the police and other systems.
Check out the full review on my website. CLICK HERE
REVIEW :
DISCLAIMER : Thank you Netgalley and Kensington Books for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
David Parrish's Losing Jon is a harrowing account of a teenager's death following a night of partying under suspicious circumstances. The whole book is written to bring out the police brutality in Howard county and the steps the police, FBI, and other officials took to cover up the crime. The book was engaging and gripping in its storytelling. I was interested in finding out what had happened to Jon Bowie and hoped to God the murderer/murderers were caught. The book takes us through Jon and Mickey's lives as they navigate their school and college. Jon and Mickey were twins and they were one night partying at a motel with 12 other friends when police came knocking on their door. Everything that happened from there is quite surreal, almost movie-like but sadly true. The accounts from the witnesses and fellow students all report that excessive force was used on the students by the police. Later the kids were harassed and followed and stalked by the police. And one night the body of Jon was seen by a jogger hanging from the baseball backstop. The whole incident is horrific and on top of that, the way the police and FBI behaved towards the victims was simply disturbing and cruel. They were intentionally framing the kids and also trying to make it seem like Jon committed suicide and not handling the proper investigation to solve the crime. The blase way the whole case was handled and the other incidents surrounding it are all one big mess of incompetency on the legal system as well. I was hooked from the beginning and the more I read the more I was drawn to the case. I felt bad for the family, friends, and victims. I was frustrated and angry and emotional through the book. I thought the book was going to be a solid 5-stars book for me and it was going to be giving us the answers to the case and how it got resolved. Let's just say that didn't happen and I was highly disappointed by it. The book ended abruptly and we don't get to see or find out how Jon Bowie dies. There are no answers to some of the questions that were frequently asked throughout the book, and adding to the confusion we have psychics and their prediction muddying everything. I am confused and disappointed by the way the case was closed and on top of that, we do not get answers to the important points made in the book. I wish the author addressed them and help resolve the issues. The book simply leaves readers with the family moving on with their lives because Jon appeared to them and told them to let it go. After all of the struggle and pain and hard work, it just seems like we are left in the dark with more questions than answers. I don't believe justice was served to the families involved, the case got closed without proper investigations, and there are too many people whose roles feels undefined in the entire case. I gave the book 3.5 stars and it would have been a 5 star read if not for the way the book ended. I sincerely hope the family got their answers and they are at peace. I can't imagine the pain and turmoil the family must have been in following Jon's untimely death. I pray the wrongdoers were all brought to justice and they answered for their failures to provide the closure for the family. I believe this is an important story and everyone should read this book to be aware of the brutality and possible cover-up of crimes committed by the police and other systems.
May 3, 2020
This is an interesting and relevant true crime piece about, well, a teen's tragic death, a police cover-up, and a community's fight for justice (just as advertised!). Jon Bowie and his brother Mickey were having a little party at a Red Roof Inn somewhere in Maryland. The police got a noise complaint from the motel and went to check it out, but the situation soon turned nasty. The three officers (and more who came) on the scene didn't like the Bowie brothers' attitudes, and what was supposed to be an easy check-in turned into a disgusting display of overreactive police brutality on two innocent teenage boys. The Bowie brothers were arrested, but opened a suit against the officers for abuse of force.
A few weeks later, Jon Bowie would be found dead, hanging from the backstop of the local baseball diamond. The police ruled it as a suicide, despite assurances from everyone Jon Bowie knew (including the author, who was Bowie's baseball coach) that he would have never committed suicide. The police made insinuations and false statements about the boy's character, sometimes seemingly covering up evidence rather than leading an investigation. The small community was outraged - they knew foul play was afoot - so when the police ruled it a suicide, they decided to lead their own investigation to find out what really happened to Jon Bowie.
This is a good story, but the way it was written doesn't do the excitement justice. I had a hard time following events and people, and a lot of the "plot" is legal action and waiting for results/decisions (yes, most legal thrillers are this way, but this didn't seem like a legal thriller). In my opinion, this may have been better if told from the perspective of an objective outsider rather than a member of the community - of course, Parrish has amazing insights to offer on the details of the investigation, but I wonder if this story might receive another treatment. Lastly, there's quite a bit of "supernatural" talk here - mostly people having telling dreams, seeing things, sensing things - lots of folks with ESP. This took a bit out of the story to me. I understand what purpose these feelings and premonitions added to the story, but I'm a total skeptic, and I found myself being a bit leary of all this.
Overall, this is a good pick for a quick true crime read - a story that is little known but deserves attention. Thank you to Citadel Press for the ARC!
A few weeks later, Jon Bowie would be found dead, hanging from the backstop of the local baseball diamond. The police ruled it as a suicide, despite assurances from everyone Jon Bowie knew (including the author, who was Bowie's baseball coach) that he would have never committed suicide. The police made insinuations and false statements about the boy's character, sometimes seemingly covering up evidence rather than leading an investigation. The small community was outraged - they knew foul play was afoot - so when the police ruled it a suicide, they decided to lead their own investigation to find out what really happened to Jon Bowie.
This is a good story, but the way it was written doesn't do the excitement justice. I had a hard time following events and people, and a lot of the "plot" is legal action and waiting for results/decisions (yes, most legal thrillers are this way, but this didn't seem like a legal thriller). In my opinion, this may have been better if told from the perspective of an objective outsider rather than a member of the community - of course, Parrish has amazing insights to offer on the details of the investigation, but I wonder if this story might receive another treatment. Lastly, there's quite a bit of "supernatural" talk here - mostly people having telling dreams, seeing things, sensing things - lots of folks with ESP. This took a bit out of the story to me. I understand what purpose these feelings and premonitions added to the story, but I'm a total skeptic, and I found myself being a bit leary of all this.
Overall, this is a good pick for a quick true crime read - a story that is little known but deserves attention. Thank you to Citadel Press for the ARC!
December 28, 2020
David Parrish, a retired tech writer, was a part-time baseball coach many years ago. When he learned that one of his former players, Jon Bowie, had died, Parrish was stunned. As a friend, he talked to friends and family, trying to understand what police and the medical examiner had ruled a suicide. Jon had been found hanging from the backstop at the local high school’s baseball field, although it seemed unlikely for a variety of reasons (including logistics, Jon’s personality, and the possible role of the police. Thanks to Kensington Books/Citadel and NetGalley for an advance copy of Parrish’s book, Losing Jon, in exchange for an honest review of this book, subtitled A Teen’s Tragic Death, A Police Cover-Up, a Community’s Fight For Justice.
Some months prior to Jon’s death, he and his identical twin brother Mickey were with a group of young people (apparently most of whom were under the legal age for drinking in Maryland) at a party in a motel room rented by a friend. When police came, several of the males behaved like the drunk teens they were, and the police responded with force that was WAY over the top. Following “the incident,” the Bowies filed complaints against two of the officers, citing excessive force and claiming it wasn’t necessary for them to have been kicked, beaten, and choked. The young man who rented the room was later abducted and dragged by the neck, allegedly by police officers, which didn’t surprise those who were familiar with the months of harassment and intimidation by police that the Bowie twins had endured – the abduction occurred the night before he was scheduled to testify about the incident.
Most of those who, like the author, lived in Columbia, Maryland, didn’t believe that Jon would commit suicide. Community feelings ran high, and there were calls for an investigation into the death as well as the actions by police. As part of his investigation into the matter, David Parrish came to the conclusion that Jon was murdered. This book is an extremely detailed documenting of the incident, the author’s investigation, and the cover-up(s) on the part of the justice system in Maryland.
As someone who has read books and listened to podcasts over the past several years dealing with the criminal justice system in the Baltimore area, I found the story disgusting but sadly not surprising. Mr. Parrish has done a good job documenting this complex story and capturing the community’s response to the events. I love true crime when it is done well, and this one is done well! I deducted one star because while I found the parts about Mr. Parrish’s mother being able to “see” things and the role of the psychic near the end being interesting, they seemed somewhat…not sure what. Possibly out of place? Jarring? Lacking clarity? Can’t quite put my finger on it but for me they detracted from the story of corruption and malfeasance just a bit. Four stars.
Some months prior to Jon’s death, he and his identical twin brother Mickey were with a group of young people (apparently most of whom were under the legal age for drinking in Maryland) at a party in a motel room rented by a friend. When police came, several of the males behaved like the drunk teens they were, and the police responded with force that was WAY over the top. Following “the incident,” the Bowies filed complaints against two of the officers, citing excessive force and claiming it wasn’t necessary for them to have been kicked, beaten, and choked. The young man who rented the room was later abducted and dragged by the neck, allegedly by police officers, which didn’t surprise those who were familiar with the months of harassment and intimidation by police that the Bowie twins had endured – the abduction occurred the night before he was scheduled to testify about the incident.
Most of those who, like the author, lived in Columbia, Maryland, didn’t believe that Jon would commit suicide. Community feelings ran high, and there were calls for an investigation into the death as well as the actions by police. As part of his investigation into the matter, David Parrish came to the conclusion that Jon was murdered. This book is an extremely detailed documenting of the incident, the author’s investigation, and the cover-up(s) on the part of the justice system in Maryland.
As someone who has read books and listened to podcasts over the past several years dealing with the criminal justice system in the Baltimore area, I found the story disgusting but sadly not surprising. Mr. Parrish has done a good job documenting this complex story and capturing the community’s response to the events. I love true crime when it is done well, and this one is done well! I deducted one star because while I found the parts about Mr. Parrish’s mother being able to “see” things and the role of the psychic near the end being interesting, they seemed somewhat…not sure what. Possibly out of place? Jarring? Lacking clarity? Can’t quite put my finger on it but for me they detracted from the story of corruption and malfeasance just a bit. Four stars.
March 24, 2020
Losing Jon: A Teen's Tragic Death, a Police Cover-Up, a Community's Fight for Justice is one of the best true-crime books I've read in a long time. Author David Parrish did an excellent job of writing, talking to the reader as if we were sitting next to him and having a conversation. As he was an integral part of the story, he was able to offer insight into the situation that a more distanced person could not.
Teenager Jon Bowie and his twin brother, Mickey, lived in a small community in Maryland. One night, at a party they were brutally beaten and arrested by police officers who had answered a noise complaint about the party. No drugs or anything other than some alcohol and a pipe were found at the scene. Jon and his brother, along with others, filed complaints about their treatment by the police, who had a reputation for brutality, specifically toward teenagers. Shortly after this, Jon's body was found hanging from a backstop at the high school. Police determined it was a suicide, although evidence pointed to homicide.
The author, David Parrish, knew the twins and had coached them in baseball. He, along with family members and other friends, knew that Jon wouldn't have taken his own life. Lies that the police blatantly told about Jon's reputation for drinking and drugs were held up as truth, even though there was no evidence for this.
David Parrish worked diligently with Jon's family and friends to clear Jon's name and bring the police officers involved to justice. If you aren't aware of the story (I wasn't), then I won't spoil it by giving the end of the book away. I will only say that instances that happened throughout the book made me angry and frustrated, and this was an important story to tell.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books and Citadel for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
5 stars
Teenager Jon Bowie and his twin brother, Mickey, lived in a small community in Maryland. One night, at a party they were brutally beaten and arrested by police officers who had answered a noise complaint about the party. No drugs or anything other than some alcohol and a pipe were found at the scene. Jon and his brother, along with others, filed complaints about their treatment by the police, who had a reputation for brutality, specifically toward teenagers. Shortly after this, Jon's body was found hanging from a backstop at the high school. Police determined it was a suicide, although evidence pointed to homicide.
The author, David Parrish, knew the twins and had coached them in baseball. He, along with family members and other friends, knew that Jon wouldn't have taken his own life. Lies that the police blatantly told about Jon's reputation for drinking and drugs were held up as truth, even though there was no evidence for this.
David Parrish worked diligently with Jon's family and friends to clear Jon's name and bring the police officers involved to justice. If you aren't aware of the story (I wasn't), then I won't spoil it by giving the end of the book away. I will only say that instances that happened throughout the book made me angry and frustrated, and this was an important story to tell.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books and Citadel for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
5 stars
May 5, 2020
A captivating, heartfelt and thrilling story based on true events
Incredible true story that reads like a thriller. This fast-moving story intimately connects the reader with the characters and drills into the heart of what it means to be a mother and a community determined to find justice no matter the cost. This book snatched my attention from the first page and didn't let go until the last.
Incredible true story that reads like a thriller. This fast-moving story intimately connects the reader with the characters and drills into the heart of what it means to be a mother and a community determined to find justice no matter the cost. This book snatched my attention from the first page and didn't let go until the last.
March 26, 2020
This is a true story of a teen's death, ruled a homicide. The young man had suffered police brutality and a coverup ensues. It's amazing that the coverup extends to the FBI. It's a totally engrossing read. I felt such empathy for the family and friends of Jon. It's a sad story but one I couldn't put down. I recommend it.
September 2, 2022
Trying not to let my ACAB stance color my review, but it's incredible that this was published in 2020 amidst rising awareness of police brutality and corruption (and on the cusp of #DefundThePolice; I'd like to think the publisher would've updated the digital edition with something to address current events) yet this whole book is like, "Oh no, there are bad cops!" I think what bothers me is that the events of the book took place 30 years ago and there's zero reflection on the state of policing today.
That being said. It's an interesting story, and I'm glad I read it. I was meh about the writing (especially the pacing) and was put off by the presence of the supernatural in a nonfiction story.
That being said. It's an interesting story, and I'm glad I read it. I was meh about the writing (especially the pacing) and was put off by the presence of the supernatural in a nonfiction story.
February 1, 2022
Sad what some people think they can get away with.
April 10, 2020
For anyone interested in true crime reads, documentaries, or podcasts, this story is definitely going to be right up your alley, especially for fans of the first season of the Serial podcast or the Netflix documentary, Making a Murderer. This story is about police corruption and murder. The story is riveting and, at times, a little scary. The author does an excellent job of evoking a feeling of community to the reader, making you feel like you are one of them, probably because the author was, in fact, one of them. Getting to experience the story from someone who, not only lived it but, was on the front lines is a special treat, for me as a reader and lover of true crime.
The writing for this book, though, was a bit “clunky” for me and, as you can tell, that of a first time book author. David Parrish worked as a technical writer and it shows. The writing at times felt almost robotic. Plus, there were sentences that just didn’t make a whole lot of sense, some that weren’t needed and/or misplaced, several sentences seemed to be copied and pasted for reuse, and even some that seemed to contradict one another. Don’t go in expecting this book to be on par with the classic Ann Rule book “The Stranger Beside Me”. Also, I felt that the supernatural aspects of this book really detracted from the gravity of the situation for me; it would often times take me out of the story resulting in eye rolls and heavy sighs. But, I just kept reminding myself that even the sanest of us might believe in the craziest of possibilities when we are at our most desperate.
In the end, I found the book enjoyable, but at times hard to stick with.
The writing for this book, though, was a bit “clunky” for me and, as you can tell, that of a first time book author. David Parrish worked as a technical writer and it shows. The writing at times felt almost robotic. Plus, there were sentences that just didn’t make a whole lot of sense, some that weren’t needed and/or misplaced, several sentences seemed to be copied and pasted for reuse, and even some that seemed to contradict one another. Don’t go in expecting this book to be on par with the classic Ann Rule book “The Stranger Beside Me”. Also, I felt that the supernatural aspects of this book really detracted from the gravity of the situation for me; it would often times take me out of the story resulting in eye rolls and heavy sighs. But, I just kept reminding myself that even the sanest of us might believe in the craziest of possibilities when we are at our most desperate.
In the end, I found the book enjoyable, but at times hard to stick with.
March 23, 2020
I received a free copy of this book through a publisher giveaway, in exchange for a review.
I enjoy true crime, nonfiction narrative stuff, etc. (hence getting on the list for the giveaway). But this was just not good. Poorly written, no closure, just some suspicious circumstances. Author was connected to the family (baseball coach) but otherwise no reason to write a book, especially 30 years after the fact. A couple weird tangents about consulting a psychic & asking his mom about the case, since she had some seemingly prophetic dreams....
Maybe get a co-writer or ghost writer? Present more evidence, not just an unsubstantiated theory related to the police officers in the community who’d had a run-in with the title character shortly before his death? Not recommended.
I enjoy true crime, nonfiction narrative stuff, etc. (hence getting on the list for the giveaway). But this was just not good. Poorly written, no closure, just some suspicious circumstances. Author was connected to the family (baseball coach) but otherwise no reason to write a book, especially 30 years after the fact. A couple weird tangents about consulting a psychic & asking his mom about the case, since she had some seemingly prophetic dreams....
Maybe get a co-writer or ghost writer? Present more evidence, not just an unsubstantiated theory related to the police officers in the community who’d had a run-in with the title character shortly before his death? Not recommended.
September 12, 2022
No resolution. There are enough cases of police misconduct, innocence project cases of wrongly convicted , that adding this mishmash of possible misdoings and psychic evidence seems a sad use of a young man and his family.
April 25, 2020
Losing Jon tells the tragic story of nineteen year-old, Carl Jonathan "Jon" Bowie of Maryland, whose death left a hole in the hearts of many people and a thorn between the police and his community. It begins with a noise complaint from the Jessup motel where Jon, and his twin brother, Mickey were partying with their friends; and ends with Jon's death on May 4, 1990. He was found hanged on a baseball backstop outside Oakland Mills High School. Although, his death was officially ruled suicide, but evidence shows otherwise.
David Parrish is a friend of the twins and he shares his experience and investigation of this case in this book. He writes with so much passion while staying true to the facts of the case. It is an emotional read for sure. It has the depth of the case and the writing although mostly engaging, there were some parts that felt "clunky" and disjointed. I was somewhat surprised by the supernatural/psychic aspect of the story to be honest. But I understand that it may be pivotal to the story, or even a way of coping with grief and loss, or desperation for the truth.
Overall, I think this book will be appealing to true crime readers. This is a case of police brutality and cover-up and how it impacted the victim's family and community. There were so many flaws in this case. From the crime scene, to the autopsy and even the internal police department investigation were so flawed and filled with biasness. So, if you are looking for books similar to Just Mercy, A Death in Belmont and Adnan's Story, this may be the book for you.
Pub. Date: 28 Apr, 2020
***Thank you Kensington Books and NetGalley for this gifted review copy in exchange for an honest review. All views expressed in this review are my own and was not influenced by the author, publisher or any third party.***
David Parrish is a friend of the twins and he shares his experience and investigation of this case in this book. He writes with so much passion while staying true to the facts of the case. It is an emotional read for sure. It has the depth of the case and the writing although mostly engaging, there were some parts that felt "clunky" and disjointed. I was somewhat surprised by the supernatural/psychic aspect of the story to be honest. But I understand that it may be pivotal to the story, or even a way of coping with grief and loss, or desperation for the truth.
Overall, I think this book will be appealing to true crime readers. This is a case of police brutality and cover-up and how it impacted the victim's family and community. There were so many flaws in this case. From the crime scene, to the autopsy and even the internal police department investigation were so flawed and filled with biasness. So, if you are looking for books similar to Just Mercy, A Death in Belmont and Adnan's Story, this may be the book for you.
Pub. Date: 28 Apr, 2020
***Thank you Kensington Books and NetGalley for this gifted review copy in exchange for an honest review. All views expressed in this review are my own and was not influenced by the author, publisher or any third party.***
October 15, 2020
Wow, just wow. This true crime novel grabbed ahold of me from the very first page and didn’t let go, even once I had finished. In fact, I felt so invested in Jon Bowie’s story that I found myself messaging the author on Goodreads, which is something I never do. This was such a page turner that I had a hard time putting it down and would stay up late into the night to continue reading as much as I could.
There was some stuff included in the book about the use of psychics and people having premonitions, which isn’t what I’m used to seeing in true crime books. I mean, I’ve occasionally seen the use of a psychic for an investigation, but it’s usually kept pretty quiet and there’s not much time spent talking about it. I actually liked how much David Parrish included about the premonitions people were having. I thought it was really interesting and added another layer to the book. I know some people aren’t going to appreciate that being talked about so much, but I definitely enjoyed it.
I loved the way David Parrish writes. He uses such captivating words and is able to put things down into a written format that draws the reader in. I became invested in his writing, the characters, and the story. From reading other reviews, there was a lot of disappointment at the way the story ended. I get it, I was right there with them; however, the problem of true crime is that it’s true. So, while I’m frustrated that we don’t get any official answers about Jon Bowie’s death, I can’t fault the author for giving us the truth rather than spouting lies in order to make a more interesting book. I would rather have the facts than walk around with false information in my head.
If you’re in search of a page-turning true crime book, I highly recommend this one. There were no dull moments and it was completely captivating from start to finish.
There was some stuff included in the book about the use of psychics and people having premonitions, which isn’t what I’m used to seeing in true crime books. I mean, I’ve occasionally seen the use of a psychic for an investigation, but it’s usually kept pretty quiet and there’s not much time spent talking about it. I actually liked how much David Parrish included about the premonitions people were having. I thought it was really interesting and added another layer to the book. I know some people aren’t going to appreciate that being talked about so much, but I definitely enjoyed it.
I loved the way David Parrish writes. He uses such captivating words and is able to put things down into a written format that draws the reader in. I became invested in his writing, the characters, and the story. From reading other reviews, there was a lot of disappointment at the way the story ended. I get it, I was right there with them; however, the problem of true crime is that it’s true. So, while I’m frustrated that we don’t get any official answers about Jon Bowie’s death, I can’t fault the author for giving us the truth rather than spouting lies in order to make a more interesting book. I would rather have the facts than walk around with false information in my head.
If you’re in search of a page-turning true crime book, I highly recommend this one. There were no dull moments and it was completely captivating from start to finish.
June 25, 2020
Losing Jon
A Teen's Tragic Death, a Police Cover-Up, a Community's Fight for Justice
by David Parrish
Kensington Books
Citadel
Nonfiction (Adult) | True Crime
Pub Date 28 Apr 2020
I am reviewing a copy of Losing Jon through Kensington Books/Citadel and Netgalley:
When David Parrish discovered that nineteen-year-old Jon Bowie’s body had been found hanged from a backstop at the local high school’s baseball field. The death was ruled as a suicide, but something was not right. David had known Jon as well as his twin brother since the boys were kids. He had coached them them on the baseball field and welcomed them into his home for sleepovers with his own sons. After David learned how Jon’s body was founded felt the need to find the facts by this incomprehensible tragedy.
It wasn’t long before David learned of a brutal attack at a hotel, where both Jon and his brother were horribly beaten by police officers. He learned too of the fires charged against the officer and the months of harassment and intimidation Jon and his brother endured. There were few in the Utopian like community of Columbia, Maryland believed that Jon would commit suicide. David could not help but wonder how a night of teens blowing off teen could end so tragically. The officers were unable or unwilling to find answers and seemed to be intent on preventing the truth from surfacing. In his own research on the case David uncovered a series of cover-up’s could only lead to one conclusion—Jon’s death was an act of murder.
I give Losing Jon five out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
A Teen's Tragic Death, a Police Cover-Up, a Community's Fight for Justice
by David Parrish
Kensington Books
Citadel
Nonfiction (Adult) | True Crime
Pub Date 28 Apr 2020
I am reviewing a copy of Losing Jon through Kensington Books/Citadel and Netgalley:
When David Parrish discovered that nineteen-year-old Jon Bowie’s body had been found hanged from a backstop at the local high school’s baseball field. The death was ruled as a suicide, but something was not right. David had known Jon as well as his twin brother since the boys were kids. He had coached them them on the baseball field and welcomed them into his home for sleepovers with his own sons. After David learned how Jon’s body was founded felt the need to find the facts by this incomprehensible tragedy.
It wasn’t long before David learned of a brutal attack at a hotel, where both Jon and his brother were horribly beaten by police officers. He learned too of the fires charged against the officer and the months of harassment and intimidation Jon and his brother endured. There were few in the Utopian like community of Columbia, Maryland believed that Jon would commit suicide. David could not help but wonder how a night of teens blowing off teen could end so tragically. The officers were unable or unwilling to find answers and seemed to be intent on preventing the truth from surfacing. In his own research on the case David uncovered a series of cover-up’s could only lead to one conclusion—Jon’s death was an act of murder.
I give Losing Jon five out of five stars!
Happy Reading!
July 30, 2022
Columbia Maryland was considered a quiet little town where everybody knew everybody and life was easy-going. Until one night, 19 year old Jon Bowie was found hanging from the backdrop at the high school. According to police, he committed suicide. But why were his fingers looped around the cable as if he were trying to pull it away from his neck? Why were there bruises under his arms and across his chest as if something tight was wrapped around his body and he was being pulled?
So begins the haunting true-crime account of a young boy’s murder, and the community’s effort to expose the lies, secrets and corruption hiding behind the Howard County police department.
Losing Jon grabbed my attention from the very first page and held it until the very last word. David Parrish’s simple writing puts the reader right in middle of the conundrum. I felt all the emotions as the story unfolded, grief, sadness, frustration, fear, and anger. But as the community came together to fight for justice, there was some hope that maybe the truth would come out.
The only complaint I have were the supernatural aspects. In my opinion…it detracted from the story and wasn’t plausible although it was somewhat interesting. It just wasn’t very believable. Or maybe I just don’t believe in psychics.
Overall, Losing Jon was a gripping story. David Parish worked diligently alongside Jon’s family to preserve his reputation and uncover the truth. If you’re a fan of true crime, I definitely recommend reading this book.
So begins the haunting true-crime account of a young boy’s murder, and the community’s effort to expose the lies, secrets and corruption hiding behind the Howard County police department.
Losing Jon grabbed my attention from the very first page and held it until the very last word. David Parrish’s simple writing puts the reader right in middle of the conundrum. I felt all the emotions as the story unfolded, grief, sadness, frustration, fear, and anger. But as the community came together to fight for justice, there was some hope that maybe the truth would come out.
The only complaint I have were the supernatural aspects. In my opinion…it detracted from the story and wasn’t plausible although it was somewhat interesting. It just wasn’t very believable. Or maybe I just don’t believe in psychics.
Overall, Losing Jon was a gripping story. David Parish worked diligently alongside Jon’s family to preserve his reputation and uncover the truth. If you’re a fan of true crime, I definitely recommend reading this book.
June 3, 2020
David Parrish was in disbelief when he learned that nineteen-year-old Jon Bowie’s body had been found hanged from a backstop at the local high school’s baseball field and the death declared a suicide. David had known Jon and his twin brother since they were boys. He had coached them on the baseball field and welcomed them into his home for sleepovers with his own sons. However, when David learned how Jon’s body was found, he felt compelled to find the facts behind this incomprehensible tragedy.
Soon, David would learn of a brutal incident at a local motel where Jon and his brother had been severely beaten by police officers, the charges filed against those officers, and the months of harassment and intimidation Jon and his brother endured. Few in the utopian community of Columbia, Maryland, believed Jon could commit such a final act. Like many others, David wondered how a fateful night of teens blowing off steam could lead to such a tragic end. As law enforcement failed to find answers and seemed intent on preventing the truth from surfacing, David uncovered a system of cover-ups that could only lead to one conclusion—Jon’s death was an act of murder.
This book was very disturbing. Especially with how olive are murdering innocent people in real life and getting away with it.
Soon, David would learn of a brutal incident at a local motel where Jon and his brother had been severely beaten by police officers, the charges filed against those officers, and the months of harassment and intimidation Jon and his brother endured. Few in the utopian community of Columbia, Maryland, believed Jon could commit such a final act. Like many others, David wondered how a fateful night of teens blowing off steam could lead to such a tragic end. As law enforcement failed to find answers and seemed intent on preventing the truth from surfacing, David uncovered a system of cover-ups that could only lead to one conclusion—Jon’s death was an act of murder.
This book was very disturbing. Especially with how olive are murdering innocent people in real life and getting away with it.
June 1, 2021
I was drawn to this book because the events recorded in it happened in my town years before I moved here. Jon Bowie’s death and those that cared about him, that tried to advocate for him to find out what really happened, is a part of Columbia’s history, even if this might not be everyone’s traditional definition of history.
For me, the writing style wasn’t the best, as David Parrish doesn’t have a creative writing background — he specifically briefly discusses his career as a technical writer as some point in the book. I think the style was more like someone rambling in a conversation. Nevertheless, Parrish is a friend of the family, and was Mickey and Jon’s coach at some point during their high school athletic careers. So, he cares about them and Jon’s passing. I think he honors Jon in having written ‘Losing Jon.’
But another problem with the writing style, for me, is that since the author is writing from his own perspective, and talks extensively about himself, he makes himself more a center of the topic than I think should have been.
Overall, glad I read it, as it furthered my perspective about my town, and gave me something to think about in a way I’m not sure that I was before.
For me, the writing style wasn’t the best, as David Parrish doesn’t have a creative writing background — he specifically briefly discusses his career as a technical writer as some point in the book. I think the style was more like someone rambling in a conversation. Nevertheless, Parrish is a friend of the family, and was Mickey and Jon’s coach at some point during their high school athletic careers. So, he cares about them and Jon’s passing. I think he honors Jon in having written ‘Losing Jon.’
But another problem with the writing style, for me, is that since the author is writing from his own perspective, and talks extensively about himself, he makes himself more a center of the topic than I think should have been.
Overall, glad I read it, as it furthered my perspective about my town, and gave me something to think about in a way I’m not sure that I was before.
March 17, 2020
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
I loveeeeee true crime books, and this synopsis proved to be a great book.
David Parrish was in disbelief when he learned that 19 yr old Jon Bowie's body had been found hanged from a backstop at the local high school's baseball field and the death declared a suicide. David had known Jon and his twin brother since they were boys. He had coached them on the baseball field and welcomed them into his home for sleepovers with his own sons. However, when David learned how Jon's body was found, he felt compelled to find the facts behind this incomprehensible tragedy.
David would soon learn of a brutal incident at a local motel where Jon and his brother had been severely beaten by police officers. Charges had been filed against those officers, and the months of harassment and intimidation Jon and his brother endured. Few in the "perfect" community of Columbia, Maryland, believed Jon would commit suicide. Like many others, David wondered how a fateful night of teens blowing off steam could lead to such a tragic end. As law enforcement failed to find answers and seemed intent on preventing the truth from surfacing, David uncovered a system of cover-ups that could only lead to one conclusion, Jon's death was an act of murder.
This was a very well written book and the author did his research. It reads as a fiction crime novel because some of the details of the case seem so out there! A communities rally to find justice and shed light on the truth of a young man's demise. I couldn't put the book down, I finished it in one sitting.
I loveeeeee true crime books, and this synopsis proved to be a great book.
David Parrish was in disbelief when he learned that 19 yr old Jon Bowie's body had been found hanged from a backstop at the local high school's baseball field and the death declared a suicide. David had known Jon and his twin brother since they were boys. He had coached them on the baseball field and welcomed them into his home for sleepovers with his own sons. However, when David learned how Jon's body was found, he felt compelled to find the facts behind this incomprehensible tragedy.
David would soon learn of a brutal incident at a local motel where Jon and his brother had been severely beaten by police officers. Charges had been filed against those officers, and the months of harassment and intimidation Jon and his brother endured. Few in the "perfect" community of Columbia, Maryland, believed Jon would commit suicide. Like many others, David wondered how a fateful night of teens blowing off steam could lead to such a tragic end. As law enforcement failed to find answers and seemed intent on preventing the truth from surfacing, David uncovered a system of cover-ups that could only lead to one conclusion, Jon's death was an act of murder.
This was a very well written book and the author did his research. It reads as a fiction crime novel because some of the details of the case seem so out there! A communities rally to find justice and shed light on the truth of a young man's demise. I couldn't put the book down, I finished it in one sitting.
March 29, 2020
This is an infuriating story about a community trying to fight for justice against the police department. Police brutality and police corruption seems like common story we hear about all the time. Nevertheless, it should not be ignored or dismissed. Jon Bowie was murdered but made to look like he hung himself. I understand that there are always two sides to every story and I would love to hear the other side. According to the author, the police investigation team don't confront or really address points of contradiction or straight up lies. Even the FBI gets involved at some point but they draw the line at investigation police corruption and refuse to look into the events surrounding Jon's death.
This is sadly another in an unforgivably long list of cases where police corruption is covered up to maintain the image and reputation of those in power.
David Parrish is not an author but felt this case was important enough to document. I applaud him for it and I can only hope that even if justice isn't found for all victims, the fight will not end.
I would like to thank NetGalley and Kensington Books and Citadel for my copy of this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This is sadly another in an unforgivably long list of cases where police corruption is covered up to maintain the image and reputation of those in power.
David Parrish is not an author but felt this case was important enough to document. I applaud him for it and I can only hope that even if justice isn't found for all victims, the fight will not end.
I would like to thank NetGalley and Kensington Books and Citadel for my copy of this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
April 16, 2020
Losing Jon: A Teen’s Tragic Death, a Police Cover-up, a Community’s Fight for Justice by David Parrish | review.
This book tells the story of nineteen year old Jon Bowie, his suspicious death and the journey his family and friends would go through to try to discover the truth. Author David Parrish knew Jon and his twin brother Mickey since they were boys and couldn’t believe the police could be right when they claimed Jon committed suicide. Months before his death, Jon and Mickey were involved in an incident with police where they were both beaten and arrested. The brothers filed against the officers and were then harassed and bullied for months. When the police seen intent on not investigating Jon’s death, David begins his own quest for answers and justice for Jon.
➖ This book will anger readers immensely. David carefully lays out evidence that supports teenagers in Columbia where often targeted by overzealous police for minor offenses. How can police commit such brutalities and receive no justice?
➖ Ultimately, I felt like this story was a little clunky and could have used some additional editing. David brought up the supernatural a lot and it made me roll my eyes every time.
Overall, I think true crime fans will like this book and I hope it brings more attention to Jon’s death.
Thank you to the author, publisher, and Netgalley for the chance to read and review this book. While I received the book for free, all opinions are my own.
This book tells the story of nineteen year old Jon Bowie, his suspicious death and the journey his family and friends would go through to try to discover the truth. Author David Parrish knew Jon and his twin brother Mickey since they were boys and couldn’t believe the police could be right when they claimed Jon committed suicide. Months before his death, Jon and Mickey were involved in an incident with police where they were both beaten and arrested. The brothers filed against the officers and were then harassed and bullied for months. When the police seen intent on not investigating Jon’s death, David begins his own quest for answers and justice for Jon.
➖ This book will anger readers immensely. David carefully lays out evidence that supports teenagers in Columbia where often targeted by overzealous police for minor offenses. How can police commit such brutalities and receive no justice?
➖ Ultimately, I felt like this story was a little clunky and could have used some additional editing. David brought up the supernatural a lot and it made me roll my eyes every time.
Overall, I think true crime fans will like this book and I hope it brings more attention to Jon’s death.
Thank you to the author, publisher, and Netgalley for the chance to read and review this book. While I received the book for free, all opinions are my own.
February 1, 2023
This is a very strange book that talks about police brutality and their cover up of any involvement in the death of Jon. The first half of the book was great but so much of what is presented as fact on both sides is really hearsay and couldn’t be relied on as evidence of anything. Hardly anything said by one side was agreed by the other side. There was a great deal of faith placed on dreams, a type of ESP, faith and even a psychic. I found these *facts* hard to believe and that is why I gave this three stars. There definitely is police brutality and corruption but unless someone confesses I do not think the mystery surrounding Jon’s death will ever be solved. Today with so many smart phones and security cameras it will be more and more difficult for abusive and power hungry police to get away with violence against the public. I do think that the majority of policemen are honest, dedicated and are doing their best in a very difficult job but there certainly are those that should be forced to leave policing. Unfortunately the rotten ones have to do something horrific before they can be removed and prosecuted.
March 29, 2020
Sad and disturbing story of a young man’s death that really was never well investigated due apparently to police brutality and corruption. Nothing in this story makes sense and it is infuriating to read about what this family and their close friends including the author had to go through to be heard. It was definitely a crime that needed to be talked about. So many things happened afterward that are so very suspicious.
The author isn’t polished or skilled at writing this type of book but his hands were tied as he was personally involved and I’m sure many people would not give him info either. He needs to be commended however. He did an overall good job though there was some repetition and some things that seemed incompletely detailed. Not sure I go for all the psychic stuff but take that as you will. I wish this young man would have gotten justice. I’m not sure I could ever put aside something like this happening to a loved one. I would be so angry.
Thank you to Net Galley and Kensington for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The author isn’t polished or skilled at writing this type of book but his hands were tied as he was personally involved and I’m sure many people would not give him info either. He needs to be commended however. He did an overall good job though there was some repetition and some things that seemed incompletely detailed. Not sure I go for all the psychic stuff but take that as you will. I wish this young man would have gotten justice. I’m not sure I could ever put aside something like this happening to a loved one. I would be so angry.
Thank you to Net Galley and Kensington for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 18, 2020
Heartbreaking, to say the least. It was very important to write this book, to bring out in the open the guilty people and their names and designations. The world needed to know who the real culprits are. That this was not a suicide, but a murder. That police officers carry on illegal acts without any accountability or punishment. That police officers’ crimes are hidden by their colleagues, by the FBI, by the legal system. Police officers get away with unlawful violence, abuse, and even homicide. Many have connections with drug dealers and are often involved in selling and/or using drugs. They have the means to frame innocent people, mess up murder scenes, tamper with evidence and autopsy reports.
The police think they are untouchable -- that they can get away with murder. Sadly, they’re right.
The police think they are untouchable -- that they can get away with murder. Sadly, they’re right.
August 15, 2022
I gave this book a five star rating because it's a true story and author did an excellent portraying what happened in Columbia, Maryland in 1990. Everything that could go wrong did one Friday night involving quite of few young people at a motel, especially when the police show up and instead of controlling the situation they went too far with some of the young men, literally beating them up, arresting them for any crazy charge they could come up with. This whole episode lasting several years many courts cases starting and stopping and of course the worst of the worst, one. of the young boys dies and they call it suicide and it clearly was a murder. The police in this town pulled together and no one got charged. Such a terrible tragedy for the young man, his family, friends and the town itself, to have a police department so corrupt, even if some were good ones they didn't speak up.
April 19, 2020
Finished Losing Jon: A Teen’s Tragic Death, a Police Cover-up, and a Community’s Fight for Justice by David Parrish today (April 18, 2020). I highly recommend it. I was in shock by the gross miscarriage of and blatant disregard for justice in this case. Local, state, and federal agencies failed this family. They not only endured the tragic loss of their son, but also the ruling of “suicide” without investigation, slanderous allegations about Jon, and stalking and threats of violence to anyone who testified for them. Parrish does a phenomenal job at laying out the evidence, and giving Jon a voice. He creates an image of Jon that come s from those who truly knew him. Thank you Netgalley and Kensington Publishing Corp for giving me the opportunity to review this book.
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