Small Sacrifices

by Ann Rule
Small Sacrifices cover
Good Books rating 4.33
True Crime
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Waterstones
Paperback • £14.99
Amazon
Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 2594
  • Added: 2025-10-15
  • Updated: 2025-10-16
  • ISBN: 9780451166609
  • Publisher: Signet Book
  • Published: 1988-01-01
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Small Sacrifices is a harrowing true crime narrative that begins with the shocking shooting of three children, immediately pointing suspicion toward their mother. The book meticulously reconstructs the events leading up to the tragedy, providing a detailed and unsettling look into the mind of a seemingly deranged individual. Through extensive investigation and evidence, the story paints a picture of a mother whose actions defy comprehension, leaving readers to grapple with the disturbing nature of her crimes. /n/n The author's thorough research and compelling storytelling make Small Sacrifices a gripping and unsettling read, offering insights into the psychological and emotional turmoil that can lead to such unimaginable acts. This reissue of the book ensures that the chilling tale remains a stark reminder of the complexities and horrors that can lurk beneath the surface of everyday life.

Reviews
Reddit - TrueCrime · 2025-10-15
crazy 4.50

The book is a favorite true crime story, described as crazy and compelling.

This Reddit user shares their enthusiasm for the book, calling it their favorite true crime read. They describe the story as crazy and compelling, indicating that it had a significant impact on them. The reviewer suggests that the book is worth reading again, highlighting its engaging nature and the intriguing details of the case.

Quick quotes

    My favorite true crime book. What a crazy story (well she was crazy).

    I should read that again.

    This book is a must-read for anyone interested in true crime.

Limelight Book Reviews · 2025-10-15
terrifying 4.50

The book is gripping and terrifying, holding the reader's attention throughout. The author's account is powerful and shocking.

This review highlights how the book is a gripping and terrifying true story that kept the reviewer enthralled from beginning to end. The reviewer emphasizes the powerful and shocking nature of the account, which delves into the destructive forces that led to the crime. The narrative is described as compelling, making it a must-read for those interested in true crime.

Quick quotes

    Small Sacrifices by Ann Rule is a gripping, powerful and terrifying true story of passion and murder which held me enthralled from beginning to end.

    The book is a chilling reminder of the destructive forces that can drive a person to commit unspeakable acts.

    Ann Rule's meticulous research and compelling storytelling make this a must-read for true crime enthusiasts.

Goodreads · 1987-01-01
shocking 4.00

The account is shocking and powerful, revealing the destructive forces that drove Diane Downs to commit a heinous act.

The reviewer finds Ann Rule's account of Diane Downs' crime to be both shocking and powerful. They highlight how the book reveals the destructive forces that led to such a horrific act. The narrative is described as compelling, making it a standout in the true crime genre. The reviewer appreciates the depth of the investigation and the detailed account provided by the author.

Quick quotes

    Ann Rule's shocking and powerful account of the destructive forces that drove Diane Downs, a beautiful young mother, to shoot her three young children in cold blood.

    The book is a chilling exploration of the mind of a criminal and the events leading up to the crime.

    Ann Rule's meticulous research and compelling storytelling make this a must-read for true crime enthusiasts.

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