Join us as we delve into the gripping true crime narrative of “The Murder Gene” by Karen Spears Zacharias. Set against the backdrop of Morganton, North Carolina, this book follows the shocking transformation of Luke Chang from a soft-spoken missionary’s son to a brutal killer. As we explore Luke’s journey from a highly intelligent youth to a Marine, we’re confronted with questions about the influence of environment and genetics on behavior. The captivating friendship between Luke and fellow Marine Casey Byrams adds layers of complexity to the narrative, leading us to Pendleton, Oregon, where tragedy strikes. Zacharias masterfully weaves together the past and present, drawing parallels between Luke’s actions and those of his grandfather, Gene Dale Lincoln. Through meticulous research and powerful storytelling, the author raises thought-provoking questions about the existence of a “murder gene” and its potential implications. Prepare to engage in discussions about nature vs. nurture, the impact of childhood experiences, and the complexities of criminal behavior. Whether you’re a true crime enthusiast or simply intrigued by the mysteries of human nature, “The Murder Gene” promises to captivate and challenge readers alike. Join us for an exploration of this compelling and haunting tale.
Meet Karen
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Karen Spears Zacharias is an American writer whose work focuses on women and justice. She holds an MA in Appalachian Studies from Shepherd University and an MA in Creative Media Practice from the University of West Scotland. She lives at the foot of the Cascade Mountains in Deschutes County, Oregon, where she volunteers with the League of Women Voters. Zacharias taught First-Amendment Rights at Central Washington University and continues to teach at writing workshops around the country. Learn more about her at www.karenzach.com.
No Perfect Mothers - Karen Spears Zacharias
$27.00
While 1920s Charlottesville, Virginia, is a charming place to grow up, there's one thing Carrie Buck doesn't like about her hometown--her home. Taken from her mother, Carrie is put up for fostering as a toddler. At age ten, Carrie is forced to leave school to work as a domestic. But when Carrie turns up pregnant at seventeen, it is Miss Mora, a Scottish immigrant and Charlottesville's most competent midwife, who she turns to. Fearing their nephew's assault of Carrie will be discovered, Carrie's foster parents claim custody of her infant daughter and fraudulently commit her to the Virginia Colony for Epileptics and Feebleminded. Dr. Priddy, the colony's superintendent, deceptively labels Carrie an imbecile, unfit to bear children. In pursuit of a legal argument granting states the right to forcibly sterilize individuals, he exploits her. NO PERFECT MOTHERS explores characters, historical and imagined, who were parties to the infamous Buck v. Bell U.S. Supreme Court case of 1927.
As the soft-spoken, highly intelligent son of missionaries in Morganton, North Carolina, Luke Chang gave no indication of the killer he would become. But after hacking into a teacher's computer at his school, a stint in the Marines was his only option.
As a young recruit, Luke was taunted for being a virgin who didn't cuss, drink, or smoke pot. That all changed when Luke met Casey Byrams, a fun-loving musician and fellow Marine from Cullman, Alabama. Their friendship set off a series of events that would eventually lead Luke to Pendleton, Oregon, where he brutally murdered nineteen-year-old Amyjane Brandhagen in August 2012. When Luke attempted to kill another woman almost a year later, Pendleton Police knew they had a serial-killer wannabe on their hands.
Some forty years prior to Amyjane's murder, Luke's maternal grandfather, Gene Dale Lincoln, murdered a young Michigan woman and attempted to abduct a twelve-year-old girl. The similarities between the violent actions of grandfather and grandson compels the question: Is there such a thing as a murder gene?
Author Interaction: Immerse yourself in the world of literature as you connect with the featured author. This is a unique opportunity to discuss their writing journey, characters, and the inspiration behind their latest work.
Book Signing Table: A dedicated table will be set up for the author to personally sign copies of their book. Bring your own copy or purchase one at the event to receive an autograph that makes your book truly one-of-a-kind.
Engaging Discussions: Gain insights into the author's creative process, storytelling techniques, and the themes that drive their work during a captivating discussion.
Spotlight on Literature: Discover the magic of literature as we celebrate the power of storytelling and the impact it has on our lives.
Community of Readers: Connect with fellow book enthusiasts and bibliophiles who share your passion for reading and appreciation for the written word.
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Collectible Keepsake: An autographed book becomes a cherished keepsake, preserving the memory of this unique event for years to come.
Expand Your Literary Horizons: Explore new genres, discover fresh perspectives, and broaden your literary horizons through the author's storytelling.
Support for Local Authors: By attending this event, you're supporting local authors and celebrating the vibrant literary community in Shepherdstown.
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Come with an open heart, leave with an autographed book, and a deeper connection to the world of literature. We can't wait to share unforgettable moments with you!