Before He Wakes: A True Story of Money, Marriage, Sex and Murder

Written by Jerry Bledsoe

Narrated by Kevin Stillwell

She led an almost perfect life, and committed an almost perfect crime. Barbara Stager appeared to be a devoted mother, loving wife, and dedicated church leader in her Durham, North Carolina community. When she “accidentally” shot her husband, popular high school coach Russ, the police were inclined to believe her—until they found out ten years earlier her first husband had died in a strangely similar way. Detective Rick Buchanan’s relentless investigations into Stager’s life revealed a stunning vortex of compulsive lying, obsessive spending, and sexual promiscuity. With every shocking new discovery, more of Barbara’s impeccable image unraveled. But the greatest shock—a damning piece of evidence Russ Stager left behind—revealed the nightmare truth about Barbara. New York Times bestselling author Jerry Bledsoe takes us deep into one of the most spellbinding cases of double life, lethal lust, and almost perfect murder.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Lantern Audio
• Release date: May 15, 2015
• ISBN: 9781942248545

Reviews for Before He Wakes

[Julie Boler · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

The detective work, interviews, and courtroom scenes were great. Not too detailed on old family history - just enough, and good at giving some ideas about the psyche of the killer.

[Linda Nell · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Very engaging story well narrated. The recounting of the trial was a bit too blow by blow at times, but otherwise can't fault this.

[Bexy · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Excellent. I have listened to all of jerry bledsoes audio books. Ths storytelling is outstanding and engaging. The narrator is the icing on the cake. A very interesting story in itself, brought alive by Jerry and Kevin. Although a sad and tragic case. I enjoyed every minute of its delivery.

[Lisa Molloy · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

What an interesting book, and very well written. The detail made all the events come to life, and death, very unfortunately. Will definitely read addt’l books by Jerry Bledsoe.