“A compelling and accurate description of a fascinating murder case, from the initial investigation through the twists and turns of two trials, and all the strategic decisions in between.  One of the best true crime books I have read.  Very entertaining.” 

—David S. Rudolf, defense attorney for Michael Peterson, featured in the Netflix series "The Staircase" and author of AMERICAN INJUSTICE:  Inside Stories from the Underbelly of the Criminal Justice System

 

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“Psychological thriller meets true crime story at its best!  MURDER ON BIRCHLEAF DRIVE is a riveting account of what, at first blush, appears to be a boy-meets-girl romance but ends in bloody horror.  Epstein brilliantly details the unraveling of the couple’s relationship and eloquently captures the legal details, making the most complicated aspects of the murder case completely understandable.  Prepare yourself for an intense, heart-pounding read!” 

—Dr. Jean G. Spaulding, Forensic Psychiatrist and Associate Consulting Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Duke University

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“An amazing first book, by a talented new author, MURDER ON BIRCHLEAF DRIVE drops the reader into the complex web and dark beauty of the criminal justice system.  Epstein skillfully recounts a chilling tale of human emotion, betrayal, and calculated murder. This story cannot be matched by the best of crime fiction--its power unleashed by the haunting reality of truth. I hope this is the first book among many for this gifted author.” 

—Joseph B. Cheshire, V, criminal defense attorney whose successful representation of Duke University lacrosse players falsely accused of sexual assault received national acclaim

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"MURDER ON BIRCHLEAF DRIVE is a gripping story that captures the true essence of a bizarre 'who done it' murder investigation and prosecution, with remarkable insights and thoughtful analysis.  The book provides an unvarnished look behind the curtain at how the criminal justice system really works.  Epstein has skillfully fleshed out the characters involved and courtroom theatrics.  A great read, and a must read, for those who are fascinated with the drama of real life—it’s even better than fiction."

—Colon Willoughby, District Attorney of Wake County, North Carolina, 1987-2014

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“Steve Epstein’s debut effort is an outstanding achievement in true crime writing.  A seasoned trial attorney in his own right, he skillfully brings this heartbreaking case to life with a detailed accounting of both the crime and the complex legal battles that followed, while helping us get to know the many individuals impacted by the tragic murder of Michelle Fisher Young.  This is a must read for anyone interested in seeing our criminal justice system at work.”  

—Hon. Barbara Jackson, Associate Justice, North Carolina Supreme Court, 2011-2019; Judge, North Carolina Court of Appeals, 2005-2011

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“Reading MURDER ON BIRCHLEAF DRIVE is like being at the scene of the crime and inside the well of the courtroom during every moment of one of North Carolina’s most notorious murder trials. Epstein does an exceptional job with the challenging task of describing how it feels to be there as law enforcement cracks a case and when great lawyers go to battle.”  

—Ripley Rand, U.S. Attorney, Middle District of North Carolina, 2011-2017; Superior Court Judge, 2002-2010
 

"This fascinating and well-told story of a North Carolina murder and the trials that followed has more twists and turns than the road to Murphy.  Clear your schedule and settle down for a long evening with some of the state’s best trial attorneys. I enjoyed the daylights out of it." 

—Hon. Robert H. Edmunds, Jr., Associate Justice, North Carolina Supreme Court, 2001-2017; Judge, North Carolina Court of Appeals, 1999-2001; U.S. Attorney, Middle District of North Carolina, 1986-1993

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“There is no way to put down this book!  Once you begin, it draws you in right from the start. I felt as though Michelle Young could have been my very own sister. Many times I
forgot I was reading a book; it is so difficult to fathom this being a true story.”

—Stacie Overman, co-star of SyFy’s “Ghost Mine,” author of ANGEL KISSES: NO MORE CANCER

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"Some heinous crimes, like premeditated murder, are relatively easy to solve due to damning physical evidence and direct witness testimony.  Others, like the one Steven B. Epstein details in his captivating book, MURDER ON BIRCHLEAF DRIVE, are anything but simple.  The solution to such crimes, resulting in justice for the victim, comes only through unwavering witnesses, dedicated law enforcement efforts, and well-prepared prosecutors .... This book documents, accurately, the work it takes to make 'circumstantial evidence' persuasive.  As such it should make the reader appreciate the tenacity those involved in criminal prosecution must display if justice is to truly be done on behalf of victims.  Excellent book, and I recommend it highly."

—Jerry Boyd, Coronado, California Police Chief (ret.); former Los Angeles County Sheriff's Deputy; author of multiple books including FIRESTONE PARK: POLICING SOUTH-CENTRAL LOS ANGELES and MY YEARS AS A CHIEF