I read the book Victim by Gary Kinder last week, and let me just say … wow.
Victim is a true crime book that details the story of the infamous Hi-Fi Killings that took place in Ogden, Utah in 1974. I’m not a stranger to crime books, but this one was particularly well done. The author uses dialogue from witness, survivors, and family members to outline the crime and its aftermath. Kinder also uses firsthand accounts throughout the book that add a dimension to this read that makes Victim unique.
The book opens, introducing its “characters” and then the perpetration of the crime. For me, this is usually the part of the book in which I am least interested. Far more important to me is what comes after. The pages of this book are filled with heroism, courage, tenacity, and strength. That is the good stuff.
Doctors work tirelessly for the well-being of the survivors of this gruesome attack. Family members come together to honor loved ones and give each other hope and purpose. Law enforcement quickly and efficiently works to bring the criminals to justice and ensure that no stone is unturned. There isn’t a page in this story that won’t pull at your heart strings.
I won’t lie to you, this book was difficult for me to read in parts. Some chapters I was boiling mad at the tortuous, murderous men who changed the course of these people’s lives. Some chapters I was overcome with emotion as victims became survivors and rebuilt their lives. I was in awe of the doctors, family, police departments, and everyone involved in making sure that this crime did not go unanswered.
Victim is a heartbreaker. It is also a heart-healer, reminding me of the humanity of each of us and how precious the people around us are. Is it a difficult read? Absolutely. Is it a worthwhile read? Absolutely, again.