Mum who wrote book to help children process father's death is on trial for his murder

A Utah mother who self-published a children's book is standing trial accused of killing her husband; the trial begins on Monday and is expected to last about a month.

A Utah mother who self-published a children's book intended to help young children process a parent's death is now facing criminal charges in connection with her husband's death. Her book drew local attention after publication, and weeks later she was arrested. Prosecutors allege the husband died after exposure to fentanyl in March 2022 and have brought numerous charges, including aggravated murder and fraud. The defendant has pleaded not guilty and disputes the prosecution's account. Key facts: - She faces nearly three dozen counts, including aggravated murder, attempted murder, forgery, mortgage fraud and insurance fraud. - Prosecutors say a medical examiner found fentanyl in the husband's system and allege a financial motive; the defendant has pleaded not guilty. - Her trial began on Monday in Utah and is expected to run about a month, with a 12-person jury to hear the case. - The self-published children's book, which was promoted locally as helping children cope with a parent's death, has been referenced by prosecutors in court filings. Summary: The case has attracted attention because of the contrast between the book's public purpose and the criminal charges. The trial will present competing accounts to the jury over the coming weeks, and the jury's decision will determine the legal outcome.