Book: Perfect Stranger
This true story by Sydney-based American Schubach is often harrowing, disturbing reading. But it's compelling and as difficult to put down as the most hypnotic thriller.
Schubach, then 40, meets a handsome man and is instantly attracted. She abandons her kind and loyal partner and takes up with the man - Simon Lowe - in part because he promises to give her the baby she so desperately wants.
Then the nightmare begins. Simon turns out to be an egotistical, devious narcissist - charming one minute, ranting the next. He threatens her former boyfriend, and her parents. Traumatised, she leaves him.
Soon after, she discovers another woman who has been similarly treated by Simon has reported him to the police, and he is now part-way through an 11-year prison sentence.
If any reader doubts the veracity of this, Google Simon Lowe , and get a taste of what this man is like.
Title: Perfect Stranger
Author: Kay Schubach
Publisher: Penguin, $37
