Colin Wilson, The Corpse Garden

Colin Wilson, The Corpse Garden - Colin Wilson's detailed account of the life and crimes of Fred and Rosemary West is definitely one of the better books on the rather disturbing subject matter. Wilson has documented the various murders well, with a constant emphasis towards the day-to-day lifestyle at 25 Cromwell St. Unfortunately, Wilson hasn't really explored the upbringing of either Fred or Rose in any real detail, particularly towards the incest that occured towards both of them at a young age. Obviously, their upbringing is very important to how their lifestyles have been moulded over time, and I felt that this had been overlooked. I did like Wilson's interesting comparisons with other, similar serial killers, especially with his theory on damaging the brain at an early age. I have read a few books on the life of the Wests and have found this one to be a nice introduction, and a good all-rounder on the subject. For further, more in-depth reading, I would strongly recommend 'An Evil Love - The Life Of Frederick West' by Geoffrey Wansell. Another very interesting book on the subject is 'Inside 25 Cromwell Street' by two of Fred's children - Stephen & Mae West. But, all in all, I would say that this is a well-written, detailed, well-thought-through account of the horrific activities that occured from the life of the Wests.