There's no room for glamour in this heartwrenching yet inspiring documentary of first-hand accounts from mothers who went above and beyond for their children. These days it is hard to escape fancy editing, theatrical reenactments, and law enforcement's clinical recounts in true crime productions, but these four stories inject much-needed empathy for victims. In each episode, the mothers' fight for justice and their children's safety illuminates the strength of a community, the goodwill of strangers, and the perseverance of all (with or without the help of the law). Straightforward and respectful, these first-hand accounts will appeal to viewers wanting humane narratives and a few happy endings. 

The mothers are the heart, soul, and beacon of the series. Crime documentaries that inadvertently tip the scale toward the killer exist in great numbers, so highlighting these cases and perspectives was a bold and admirable choice. Not only does the docuseries center the victims’ voices (elevating their contributions past footnotes status), it also takes care not to over-emphasize the involvement of police, lawyers, and culprits. The mothers’ determination and the praise and support they receive from families, friends, and even strangers are a reprieve in this dark, saturated genre.