Ep 2. Love in Flames

Love in Flames is the second episode of the fifth season of the chilling true crime series, Fatal Vows. The episode delves into the complex and ultimately tragic relationship between Linda and David Rader. Linda was a headstrong and independent woman who was living the single life in her thirties when she met David. David was charming, successful, and seemed like the perfect partner for Linda. However, as their relationship progressed, Linda began to see a darker side to David.

The episode starts off with interviews from Linda's family and friends, who paint a picture of a woman who was fiercely independent and determined to make a life for herself. Linda worked hard to advance in her career and was proud of her accomplishments. However, her love life was not as successful. Linda had been in several serious relationships, but they always ended in heartbreak. When she met David, she thought that her search for love was finally over.

David was a wealthy businessman who quickly swept Linda off her feet. He was attentive, affectionate, and seemed to adore Linda. They fell in love quickly, and Linda was thrilled to have found a partner who was so successful and devoted to her. However, as their relationship progressed, things began to change.

Linda started to notice that David was controlling and possessive. He wanted to know where Linda was at all times, who she was with, and what she was doing. He would call her constantly and get upset if she didn't answer. Linda tried to shrug it off as David just being protective and caring, but she started to feel trapped.

The episode also includes interviews with David's family and friends, who paint a different portrait of David. They describe him as a hardworking and diligent businessman who was always looking to provide for his family. However, as Linda would later find out, David had a dark past that he had kept hidden from her.

As Linda and David's relationship continued, the couple decided to get married. Linda was thrilled to be starting a new life with the man she loved, but things quickly took a turn for the worse. The couple would argue constantly, and David's possessiveness only grew stronger. He would berate Linda, calling her names and telling her that she was worthless without him. Linda would later describe the abuse as being both emotional and physical.

Throughout the episode, interviews with Linda's friends and family recount the moments leading up to Linda's tragic death. As their relationship continued to deteriorate, David became more and more violent. One night, after an argument, David poured gasoline around their home and set it on fire. Linda was trapped inside and died from the flames. David was later arrested and convicted of murder.

The episode ends with interviews from Linda's loved ones, who remember her as a strong and determined woman who had her whole life ahead of her. They recount the sadness and shock that they felt when they learned of her untimely death and remember her as someone who will always be missed.

Love in Flames is a harrowing reminder of the dangers of staying in an abusive and controlling relationship. It is a cautionary tale about trusting others and how things are not always as they seem. The episode leaves a lasting impression on viewers and is a must-watch for anyone interested in true crime or domestic abuse cases.