Review of Deceit

[Tejas Koli]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Deceit" by Vernon Baumrind.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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In “Deceit: A True Story of Domestic Infidelity and Betrayal with Salacious Details Recorded by Wiretap,” Vernon Baumrind delivers a compelling first-person account of the devastating impact of adultery and betrayal within his own marriage. After 11 years of marriage and two children, Baumrind begins to suspect his wife, Linda, is having an affair with her gynecologist, Dr. James Ewing. To uncover the truth, Baumrind installs an illegal wiretap on his home phone line, resulting in explicit recordings that confirm the affair and provide ammunition for an explosive custody battle. What ensues is a page-turning chronicle of Baumrind’s attempt to win sole custody of his children while simultaneously suing Ewing for alienation of affection and outrage. Baumrind spares no detail, transcribing lengthy excerpts of lewd conversations between Linda and Ewing that underscore the doctor’s manipulative nature and sex addiction. The depravity of their trysts—in Ewing’s medical office, the Baumrinds’ marital home, and even a public park—is conveyed viscerally through Baumrind’s anguished but determined first-person narration.

The book Deceit showcases meticulous editing, ensuring a smooth flow of the story from start to finish. The narrative engages readers with its salacious details and captivating storytelling. The author, Vernon Baumrind, skillfully weaves together the events of domestic infidelity and betrayal, keeping the audience engrossed in the unfolding drama. The grammar and language usage in the book are carefully crafted, enhancing the clarity and readability of the text. The editing process has effectively brought out the author’s intent, creating a compelling and immersive reading experience for the audience.

While certainly sensational at times, the story raises thoughtful questions about privacy, fidelity, addiction, and the ethics of those in positions of power over vulnerable individuals. Baumrind faces gut-wrenching choices, and his devotion to protecting his children from trauma makes him a sympathetic, if controversial, protagonist. The 1977-79 timeline provides fascinating insight into evolving attitudes around divorce, custody, and gender roles as well. Overall, “Deceit” delivers a raw, compelling perspective on the devastating fallout of marital infidelity. Baumrind’s confessional style and unflinching honesty make for a memorable, if unsettling, read. The book has earned a rating of 5 out of 5.

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Deceit
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