Cleveland Strangler: The Untold Cover Up

Dear CD, powerful,well written. I couldn't stop reading it. I felt I was there. You write fluidly with anger and emotion and fact. I feel emotionally connected to you, vernice and the murderous swine. A true story written from such a personal position. I want to read all. I think a six star and definitely on my book shelf. This needs to be told to the world. Maureen .

Dear CD,

I am stunned by your ability to write such an intense true-life story in such a moving way. I loved your honest, powerful voice right away. Your word choice and use of language makes this story feel every bit as real as it is. I love the line in the opening: "But God brought me back." You have a remarkable ability to insert short, powerful lines like this, which truly make the reader pause and think about what you are communicating. I was deeply disturbed by the pain and violence Vernice endured, and my heart goes out to you (and her) for facing such a tormenting situation. I can tell this is a story that needs to be told, and you are probably the only person who can tell it with such emotional connection. I commend your search for justice and truly wish you hope, peace, and every success.

All the very best,
Faith Rose
Now To Him

Hi CD,
I have read all chapters you have uploaded and have studied the case briefly on other sites. I can not even begin to know what you have been through. I too thought this was fiction. But now I see you have a true story to tell. And may I say. you have told in a remarkable way. The story emerged from many different angles. I could almost walk in your shoes as you told the story. I could feel your pain and I can still feel your emotion of... If I had only. I can also feel in your words, you know you have battles ahead of you and have yet to face. But somehow I sense you are strong enough to face them. Strong story.
I will read the rest of your story. Hope this day finds you well.
Sara Stinson

Dear CD: I've read your uploaded chapters. Wow! This is awesome. I enjoy reading true crime stories, but I don't think I've ever read one by an associate of a victim rather than by a detective. This makes your story even more gritty and real and brutal! I sincerely hope the rest of your book reveals that the police finally stepped in and did what they were suppose to do in the first place. (I will check out your web site).

I enjoyed reading the letter from Vernice to her attacker, Anthony Sowell, the Cleveland Strangler as well as your letter to both Sowell and the Sex Crime Unit. I do think, if you are interested in seeking publication, that it might be better to put these letters in an appendix rather than in the opening of your book and, for dramatic purposes, to start right away with the crime. Then drop away from the crime with a backflash to when you met Vernice and tell the story of how your relationship developed giving Vernice a human face and a fully-developed personality as you tell the story.

You actually have a lot of talent in writing but your book does need editing, organizing a bit, and polishing preferably by an editorial service (it's worth the price) or, if you've a good friend who's a writer, by someone you know. Once they've helped you get the story line and plot in order, then, using your ability to write, you can fill in the outline.

This is a shocking, true story and you have a definite gift at writing true crime. Your dialogue is excellent - very real, very blunt and honest. Once you have built your characters up a bit more (yourself included as well as Vernice), this will be a full-bodied, ready-to-publish book and I sincerely wish you the best in finding a publisher!
You captivated me with you story and I, as I said, will go to your website to find out more about it. Best wishes.

CLEVELAND STRANGLER
Wow. This is an angry, angry story. The kind a person has to write or will explode inside. The injustice of the rape and the incompetence of the police force are both revealing. The chapter where CD walks past the house where Vernice has just been strangled has a great sense of sadness about it. The sight of her eye had to be gruesome. She comes across as a very likable and sympathetic character which is unusual because she’s also such a heavy drug user. Good job on revealing her true character. A good introduction to a revealing book, I’m starring this and adding it to my shelf. Wanttobeawriter: Who Killed the President?

I came back to read the chapter that wouldn't upload. There's intensity, there's passion and energy in every chapter. The POV changes, from Vernice's to the perpetrator's to yours actually worked well for me--your using the shifts created powerful, vivid scenes, your search for her, Vernice's mustering all the strength to find help, the hospital recovery. The way in which you presented the crime scene was horrific and frightening, bringing the reality of what she had to endure through to the forefront--because writing it in the first person pov removed any screen.
Donna
No Kiss Goodbye

I'm backing the story, but with reservations. I found the constantly POV confusing and it was sometimes hard to tell whose head the narrator's in. It seems to be a draft, but I think it needs work to make it a cohesive story. Good luck with it!

Every word from the first to the last brims with such passion, it filled me with great indignation. I liked how you put me, as a reader, into Vernice's voice with a charged opening statement. I think it was brilling that you put her voice in the second POV, talking to the perpetrator. Instantly captivating and I joined her in her battle. It's a miracle that she survived. By the time it's your voice at the further injustice she suffered, you've got me in your corner (sorry to use a cliche, but that's exactly how you made me feel). This story is heartwrenching and you've delivered it in a most powerful way.
Donna
No Kiss Good-bye

CD I want to start out by commending you for telling Vernice's story. I want to read more. I can see your personality spewing out of the book. I actually laughed at the scene where you said you couldn't wait until they serve him the cocktail. That was a nice play on words and very witty. However, I have to be honest with you about some of the sentence structure. I noticed a few fragment sentences in the opening. I originally ignored it because I assumed that you were writing in the voice of the character and that is the way they spoke. Well I noticed it continued with CD's character. For example when you start some of the sentences with the word But most of the time it was a fragment. These are simple fixes though. Just go back and add a comma before the word but and make it a complex sentence. In addition, I wish there was more detail. I want to know what Vernice looked like when I was reading. I didn't have a mental picture of her. I just knew that she was pretty. Is she tall, short, thin, full figured, short hair, dark skin, etc. Give us some more details. I knew it was a filthy room, but I would have liked to know more about it. I encourage you to describe the smell, how dark it was, the filth on the ground and things like that. I can tell that the killer was sick when he would exaggerate the truth to see his relatives get whipped naked. I wish I knew some more about him and what caused him to be like that. I mean was his mother an addict? There is some underlying reason more than likely that caused him to have so much hatred toward addicts. I am sure that this will be covered later, but I am so excited and eager to know. My main advice is to share more details though. I enjoyed reading your work and I will be back later. I hope I didn't offend you at all because that was not my intention. This is a good book.

Just finished reading chapter 3. You totally made up for the first chapter. OMG I hope and pray you didn't have to go through this in reality. This is so crazy. Idk anything about Cleveland but New Orleans have a lot a crime. None as vicious as this one. CD was an amazing man. Need more like him.

Vernice looked at herself and all she said was damn. I would've had a panic attack or cried or passed out. LOL. She did better than I expected. All hands down I really love this story. I think I almost cried when I thought she had died. Then, seeing that her family was stubborn (like my family) and only come cuz they thinks she's dying. It's sad people are like that but I really hope you upload more. :)

I'll be honest. I love crime and investigations but I got irritated within the first four or so paragraphs. You basically repeated the same paragraphs twice. The only thing you did differently was the wording. I got the point she was the victim in 2006 but why does she have to keep saying it? Especially not that close together.

She what I did there? I repeated my point twice but changed the wording.

I really do want to finish reading it but I just had to be honest with you. The plot seems like it's going to be interesting. Sorry if I came of a little harsh but I like to be honest.

Your novel is very well written, it really pulled you in.
The descriptions was vivid and accurate, but not excessive.
The characters were well developed, I was shocked to realize this wasn't fantasy.
It's so well written, it seems like it couldn't possibly have real life applications...

high stars

- Bree

CD,
Truth trumps fiction anytime, and your work is a testament to the fact, gripping, unrelenting, in-your-face. The switching of POV's from CD to Vernice to Sowell adds to the intensity of the narrative with the horror more pronounced being in the person's head experiencing the actual event. Your unabashed writing style, straightforward without superfluity is easy to follow and digest, making it effective to the extreme. Thank you so much for your intestinal fortitude.

Kenneth Edward Lim
The North Korean

Hi CD, I read most of chapter 3. This is a gripping, edge of the seat story. You have a good plot and can get inside the characters really well. Your descriptions are excellent and the flow is great. I was thrown at the start:
'The rays from the morning sun made its way...' as the 'rays' are plural should this be 'made their way'? hope you are not offended, if I wasn't sure the next person might also be confused. Well done, excellent piece.

Kind Regards and Best Wishes,
Lenny Banks - Tide and Time: At The Rock

Dear CD,
I am speechless. I admire your ability to actually write this, knowing how that must have felt for you. You are a brave, powerful storyteller. Telling this story from the perspectives of everyone involved is what made this more than just a true crime story. It puts the reader in the heart of it in a way that I have not seen before. This is a haunting, horrible story but one that I hope gave you some peace to tell.
--Julie

Thanks you so much Laurence! Your very sincere comments left me speechless. Thanks for the critique. I did purposely keep it lean and mean for the opening chapters for pace and impact. However, the next chapters do offer more backstory, description and fleshes out the three main characters. But thanks again for such generous and I might encouraging words of support. (Made my eyes a little misty) Best Wishes to you too in your writing endeavors!

This non fiction has novels pale into insignificance, mine more than most. I'm humbled by your tough, emotional and extraordinary story. There is only one thing that I dare suggest when reading your work, which already shines with your own personal integrity and honesty, and that is more description of scenes and characters. This is not for commercial reasons but to transport and engage the reader more fully, especially those from overseas like me. But your powerful, hard hitting style and eloquent gift for writing will, I hope, ensure that your book is read by millions across the world. It is a unique insight into the thoughts of both the victim and the perpetrator and your own tear wrenching view of how you dealt with the tragedy. You reacted as we would all hope we would faced with the same circumstances but very few of us have the sature you pocess.
An incredible read. Privileged to have an opportunity to comment and proud to back your book.
Laurence Howard, The Cross of Goa

Hi CD,
My writing partner, Kristen, author of Immortal Dilemma, texted me immediately that this was a gripping story, and that it was true, at that. Put it on my watchlist, and greatly look forward to reading it, hopefully later today. I feel terrible saying that I want to read something so horrible that actually occurred, but I think that's what you want, right?

Take care, and I will get back to you with commentary.
--Julie, author of Running Home

Hi CD,
My writing partner, Kristen, author of Immortal Dilemma, texted me immediately that this was a gripping story, and that it was true, at that. Put it on my watchlist, and greatly look forward to reading it, hopefully later today. I feel terrible saying that I want to read something so horrible that actually occurred, but I think that's what you want, right?

Take care, and I will get back to you with commentary.
--Julie, author of Running Home

Wow. This is a really powerful story and deserves to be told for the sake of Vernice and all involved. Vernice pulled me in with her opening statement, and then I read the whole thing. Please keep us updated when you add more. I hope that Vernice has recovered from her physical wounds and her addiction.

As far as writing critique...when you change POV, I would use a subheader. It's pretty clear from the text, but just to make it more impactful for the reader. I might also break up the chapters. In 3 chapters you met the 10K upload requirement. You definitely have a page turner, and breaking it up will just build the tension and drama.

I just wish this story was fiction. Great job so far.
Kristen

Dear CD, powerful,well written. I couldn't stop reading it. I felt I was there. You write fluidly with anger and emotion and fact. I feel emotionally connected to you, vernice and the murderous swine. A true story written from such a personal position. I want to read all. I think a six star and definitely on my book shelf. This needs to be told to the world. Maureen .

I know the story well, living in Cleveland and being an attorney in Cuyahoga County at the time. This is a very good story, but to publish it, it needs work. You need to put the story in a setting, to give it life, not just dialogue
At the start of Chapter Three, "The rays from the morning sun . . . is exactly what I mean. Another idea is to reminisce in within the story of you and Vernice's good times together, how you met, what you did, that fateful day when you decided it was over. Also, maybe you could includ how she got into that life, how old she was, where her parents were. I think this would be a very popular book, it definitely has potential.

Your story is so real to believe, good to understand and learn from. I learned the idea that you have many problems to face, and you have to deal with. I am still reading, goo job.

Six stars.

Animals In Paradise.

Your story is so real to believe, good to understand and learn from. I learned the idea that you have many problems to face, and you have to deal with. I am still reading, goo job.

Six stars.

Animals In Paradise.

Dear CD,

I am stunned by your ability to write such an intense true-life story in such a moving way. I loved your honest, powerful voice right away. Your word choice and use of language makes this story feel every bit as real as it is. I love the line in the opening: "But God brought me back." You have a remarkable ability to insert short, powerful lines like this, which truly make the reader pause and think about what you are communicating. I was deeply disturbed by the pain and violence Vernice endured, and my heart goes out to you (and her) for facing such a tormenting situation. I can tell this is a story that needs to be told, and you are probably the only person who can tell it with such emotional connection. I commend your search for justice and truly wish you hope, peace, and every success.

All the very best,
Faith Rose
Now To Him

Thanks DWB for the suggestion. I will look into it. To answer your question I do have several more completed chapters. I will be uploading soon. Thanks for taking time to read my challenging true crime and pursuit of justice story. I appreciate it. I will get back to you soon on your appealing story.

CD,
This is one shocking story and you tell it well;
I would suggest using a different word instead of house so many times in paragraph 2; it distracts the reader...
other than that, this story deserves many stars. where are you on finishing it?

Hello Sara,

Thank you for the kind reassuring words! Yes it has been the most challenging time in my life. But I thank God for the strength and determination to pursue justice and closure for her. The writing process and feedback has been most cathartic. Hopefully this 'trial in the court of public opinion' may get our story national exposure and pique a compassionate attorney.

One more thing did you give it a star rating? Thanks again for your time and gracious comments. Best wishes to you as well.

Hi CD,
I have read all chapters you have uploaded and have studied the case briefly on other sites. I can not even begin to know what you have been through. I too thought this was fiction. But now I see you have a true story to tell. And may I say. you have told in a remarkable way. The story emerged from many different angles. I could almost walk in your shoes as you told the story. I could feel your pain and I can still feel your emotion of... If I had only. I can also feel in your words, you know you have battles ahead of you and have yet to face. But somehow I sense you are strong enough to face them. Strong story.
I will read the rest of your story. Hope this day finds you well.
Sara Stinson

Hi CD,

When I first read your pitch, I neglected to look at your tags, and thought this was fiction. When I realized this was a true story, I was amazed by both the well-written work you accomplished and how you were able to make it read like a fiction. The perspective is great, and this is a riveting read. I think the mood of the two letters seemed much different than the actual work you wrote. I felt anger and some bitterness in the letters, which is very understandable, but in the book I saw in you and the victim a real compassionate, humane side coming through.

I only saw minor things I might consider changing:
The only part I got kind of confused in was when you introduced Lovely into the picture. I had a hard time following how she was related to Vernice and the phone call that ensued. Maybe it was me, but this seemed difficult to put together.
Also, god (God) in the parts where your praying, thanking him

Other than that, I saw your work was very nicely done, and I think you have a real story to tell.

Kara
A Gate Called Beautiful

Dear Dr. J.

Shhh! Do you hear that? This is officially my very first comment here at Authonomy, hence the proverbial violins! Now with the melodic strings playing in the background let’s get down to business.
First of all…THANK YOU!

Thanks for your kind words and insightful comments. Yes this is a true crime story. One that is still evolving. The approach to put the “open statements” up front is experimental but your suggestion for an appendix location is duly noted. Over time I will see what the general consensus feels about it.

You also suggested, “for dramatic purposes, to start right away with the crime. Then drop away from the crime with a backflash to when you met Vernice and tell the story of how your relationship developed giving Vernice a human face and a fully-developed personality as you tell the story.”

I agree. That is my intent with Chapter one focusing on the day of the crime/assault. Immediately cut to the proverbial chase as it were. That is followed by Chapter two which covers the next day, actually early morning when Vernice regained consciousness. And I continue with the subsequent events of that day when I was called to the ER.

As you so well suggested ‘drop away with a back flash to when we met and how are relationship developed’ that is exactly the approach I take in not yet uploaded Chapter 3. For the very same reason as you aptly mentioned to “give Vernice a human face and fully-developed personality.”

I realize Chapters 1 & 2 don’t provide much background information on the two of us, but once readers are introduced to the tragedy that set this intriguing journey in motion, (for justice and closure,) succeeding chapters do get…personal. Trust me. Very intimate. As characters, we are fully fleshed out, presenting the good, the bad, and the ugly.

As far as editing and polishing goes that’s why I am here. To make a captivating story a greater, publishable read. Hopefully with more discerning feedback from others like you that goal will be realized.

Thank you very much Dr. J. Hope you liked the violins! -CD

Dear CD: I've read your uploaded chapters. Wow! This is awesome. I enjoy reading true crime stories, but I don't think I've ever read one by an associate of a victim rather than by a detective. This makes your story even more gritty and real and brutal! I sincerely hope the rest of your book reveals that the police finally stepped in and did what they were suppose to do in the first place. (I will check out your web site).

I enjoyed reading the letter from Vernice to her attacker, Anthony Sowell, the Cleveland Strangler as well as your letter to both Sowell and the Sex Crime Unit. I do think, if you are interested in seeking publication, that it might be better to put these letters in an appendix rather than in the opening of your book and, for dramatic purposes, to start right away with the crime. Then drop away from the crime with a backflash to when you met Vernice and tell the story of how your relationship developed giving Vernice a human face and a fully-developed personality as you tell the story.

You actually have a lot of talent in writing but your book does need editing, organizing a bit, and polishing preferably by an editorial service (it's worth the price) or, if you've a good friend who's a writer, by someone you know. Once they've helped you get the story line and plot in order, then, using your ability to write, you can fill in the outline.

This is a shocking, true story and you have a definite gift at writing true crime. Your dialogue is excellent - very real, very blunt and honest. Once you have built your characters up a bit more (yourself included as well as Vernice), this will be a full-bodied, ready-to-publish book and I sincerely wish you the best in finding a publisher!
You captivated me with you story and I, as I said, will go to your website to find out more about it. Best wishes.

Dear CD: I've read your uploaded chapters. Wow! This is awesome. I enjoy reading true crime stories, but I don't think I've ever read one by an associate of a victim rather than by a detective. This makes your story even more gritty and real and brutal! I sincerely hope the rest of your book reveals that the police finally stepped in and did what they were suppose to do in the first place. (I will check out your web site).

I enjoyed reading the letter from Vernice to her attacker, Anthony Sowell, the Cleveland Strangler as well as your letter to both Sowell and the Sex Crime Unit. I do think, if you are interested in seeking publication, that it might be better to put these letters in an appendix rather than in the opening of your book and, for dramatic purposes, to start right away with the crime. Then drop away from the crime with a backflash to when you met Vernice and tell the story of how your relationship developed giving Vernice a human face and a fully-developed personality as you tell the story.

You actually have a lot of talent in writing but your book does need editing, organizing a bit, and polishing preferably by an editorial service (it's worth the price) or, if you've a good friend who's a writer, by someone you know. Once they've helped you get the story line and plot in order, then, using your ability to write, you can fill in the outline.

This is a shocking, true story and you have a definite gift at writing true crime. Your dialogue is excellent - very real, very blunt and honest. Once you have built your characters up a bit more (yourself included as well as Vernice), this will be a full-bodied, ready-to-publish book and I sincerely wish you the best in finding a publisher!
You captivated me with you story and I, as I said, will go to your website to find out more about it. Best wishes.