The Demon in Disguise, Murder, Kidnapping, and the Banty Rooster
August 2021, Köehler Books
For every suspense novel that entertains, there is a true crime tale that dispenses with belief suspension in favor of the painfully real. Ashley Elliott survived the execution style murder of her father and friend, the drugging, and kidnapping of her mother, and the small town good ol’ boy criminal justice system.
In the late evening of May 18, 2002, prominent local businessman Carter Elliott and his young protégé become the first double-homicide victims in the history of Conway, Arkansas. The Conway PD, Arkansas State Police, and FBI combine to launch a painstaking investigation into what seems a meticulously planned mob-style execution. There are no eyewitnesses, recorded disturbances, fingerprints, or DNA.
After several weeks of investigation, and numerous theories, law enforcement has made no progress. They have no motive. No suspects. Then, one month after the murders, the estranged wife of Carter Elliott goes missing. Is there a connection?
The Demon in Disguise chronicles Ashley Elliott’s years-long, roller-coaster journey with the criminal justice system in pursuit of answers and justice for her parents. When will it end, and what will it ultimately produce?
