Step into the unsettling yet captivating world of true crime as we welcome Susan Ashline, an author whose narratives expose the darkest crevices of human experience. She discusses "Without a Prayer," a book that tells the grim tale of Lucas Leonard and the church that became his demise. Yet, beyond the true crime, Susan boldly reflects on her own life in "A Jacket Off the Gorge," offering a rare, unfiltered glimpse at the challenges faced by an author in the trenches of humanity's worst.

Love can be blinding, and Susan's story with John Fontaine is a harrowing testament to this. She unravels a web of theft, deceit, and a missing treasure, all concealed behind the facade of romance. The conversation twists through the complexities of a relationship marred by hidden criminal pasts and the haunting reality that sometimes the person closest to us is the most enigmatic. Susan's introspective journey is not merely her own but serves as a beacon for those who have encountered the perils of deceit in love.

As we wrap our discussion, the focus shifts to a topic often left in the shadows: domestic violence.  Susan confronts the harsh truths faced by victims, particularly men who seek solace and justice. The episode is a call to arms, pushing for a reformed criminal justice system and advocating for the overlooked. It's not just about story-sharing; it's about igniting change and empowering those who've been silenced to find their voice. Join us for this profound conversation that's as educational as it is emotionally resonant.

If you or someone you know is facing domestic Violence, Click HERE

Get you copy of A Jacket Off the Gorge: True Story of the Biggest Liar HERE

Get your copy of Without a Prayer: The Death of Lucas Leonard and How One Church Became a Cult HERE

CLICK HERE For the blog post for this episode.

Time Line
(00:00) Author Discusses True Crime Memoir
(05:43) Uncovering a Criminal's Hidden Secrets
(18:32) Survivor's Book and Domestic Violence Awareness
(31:47) True Crime Author Discusses Book Challenges
(44:40) Domestic Violence and Writing Empowerment

About Susan Ashline

Susan Ashline is the author of the nationally acclaimed true crime book Without a Prayer: The Death of Lucas Leonard and How One Church Became a Cult. She is an Emmy-nominated journalist whose career spans more than twenty-five years. Her work has received major awards, including a first place Associated Press award for general excellence in individual reporting, and a Gannett Gold Medal award. Susan graduated from the University of Massachusetts, and she studied at the University of New Mexico and the State University of New York.

DON'T FORGET TO RATE, COMMENT AND SUBSCRIBE

JOIN ME ON SOCIAL MEDIA BY FOLLOWING THE LINKTREE

SIGN THE DEEP DARK SECRETS PETITION HERE

Follow Our Family Of True Crime Shows

Deep Dark Secrets with LaDonna Humphrey & Amy Smith

True Crime, Authors and Extraordinary People With David McClam

Extinguished With David McClam & LaDonna Humphrey

Cover Art and Logo created byArslan (Moazzam) From Fiverr

Sound Mixing and editing by David McClam

Intro script by Sophie Wild From Fiverr & David McClam

Intro and outro jingle by Jacqueline G. (JacquieVoice) From Fiverr