Robin Goodfellow's Blog, page 11

Navigating Psychosis

There’s a lot of hardships for people who experience psychosis. For starters, there’s the stigma; when we hear the news, we see people insult others by saying “she’s psychotic” or “he’s crazy”. When we watch shows involving asylums, when we first look inside, we’ll find someone experiencing psychosis, with artists parading them around as though they’re someone to be laughed at or pitied, rather than to be treated as a human. 

I currently work for an organization that treats individuals with early onset psychosis (meaning the symptoms have started when the individual was around 15-30). This includes diagnoses such as schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, bipolar disorder with psychotic features, ect. Most of the people I see are young adults, those who are just starting their lives and are struggling to find footing. I’ll admit, when I first started working in this program, I was nervous. From my experiences as a case manager, I knew somewhat about how to work with people with psychosis, but I didn’t have a good understanding of it. My boss recommended that I read The First Episode of Psychosis by Michael T. Comptom and Beth Broussard. 

And I loved it.

Honestly, I would recommend this title for anyone diagnosed with a mental illness that has psychotic features, or even just for caregivers or curious mental health professionals. Although the book reminds us that it’s important to treat the person holistically, the authors go in depth into each treatment option. They list out the importance of having social supports, like family and friends, the right medications, and different psychoeducational rehabs and skills trainings that your loved one may experience. Personally, I found the medications particularly; while I have common brand names memorized, I’m sorely lacking on knowledge for anti-psychotics. 

I feel like this book could also pair well with memoirs regarding schizophrenia, such as Recovered but not Cured by Richard McLean and The Quiet Room: A Journey out of the Torment of Madness by Lori Schiller and Amanda Bennett. It could provide a structure for providers who are interested in serving this resilient population. 

Book Review for These Silent Stars by Chani Lynn Feener

I received this book for free. This did not impact my review in any shape or form. 

These Silent Stars, by Chain Lynn Feener, is sci-fi romance novel about a young man who attempts to control his lover’s fate, regardless of the consequences. Kelevra, the Imperial Prince and third in line for the throne of Vitality, is intrigued by Rin Varun, a seemingly carefree student at the Academy they both attend. Known as the Devil of Vitality, Kelevra decides to pursue Rin, and after realizing the depths of Rin’s emotional beauty (and volatility), Kel decides he must possess Rin at any costs, even if it means trapping him in a passionate, loveless betrothal. Rin, on the other hand, finds himself drawn to the sociopathic Kelevra, and despite his reluctance, begins to succumb to the Prince’s dark charms. So begins a chaotic love story in which two men fight for dominance and, in turn, their identities.

There’s a lot of chaotic energy between Kelevra and Rin. In truth, I really thought Rin would do whatever it took to escape from Kelevra’s obsessive love, but clearly that’s not the case. I did enjoy the BDSM aspects of the book, especially with Kelevra forcing Rin to give up control (a lot of subs struggle with this in real life). That being said, I’d be reluctant to give up control to a psychopath too. Moreover, I liked the codependency that Rin’s developed on Sila; after all, who needs to work on weaknesses when you’ve got someone to cover for you? The idea of Rin and Sila switching places, to the point where they don’t even know who they are anymore, only going by instinct and what they feel at the time, was a good touch. Moreover, despite them being identical twins, they were still able to tell their desires apart from one another. As such, it’s rather telling that Kel wonders why anyone would mistake the two. 

The book, even with all its steamy sex scenes and dark, possessive romances, delves into the complexities of having your own identity. It’s obvious that Kelevra, though he almost prides himself in his cruelties, was more than off put by his sudden infatuation with Rin and his well-being. Similarly, Rin was afraid to show Kelevra who he was, and as a result, pushed the only person away who could possibly understand his situation. Both Rin and Sila were trying to escape the roles that their father tried to pigeon-hole them in, and in a way, Kelevra was their ticket to freedom. When you’re born into a certain order, you’re expected to play a certain part, and right now, those three are only trying to find somewhere to belong. It’s rather poetic in that sense, the fact that even though Kelevra and Rin were trapped in a way, they were still  trapped together. It makes me wonder what Sila’s fate holds.

As such, I would give this book a 4 out of 5 stars. 

Book Review for Secrets, Lies, and Double Lives by Claire Rosalind

I received this book for free. This does not impact my review in any shape or form. 

Secrets, Lies, and Double Lives, by Claire Rosalind, is an action thriller about two men weaving through the deceptions and betrayals and, eventually, finding their way back to one another. Elijah is a young man who just found out his entire family had been murdered. After seemingly kidnapped by Zeke who, as it turns out, was trying to protect him, Elijah decides to put his trust in his impromptu knight and shining armor. However, the more Elijah learns about Zeke, the more untrustworthy he becomes. Before long, Elijah can’t help but notice that something is very, very wrong. It’s up to Elijah and Zeke to determine what’s reality and what’s not, who’s lying and who’s telling the truth, before they destroy the people around them, and inevitably, themselves. 

I absolutely loved the insanity of this book. Just when you think you know who the bad guys are, Rosalind pulls the rug out from under us for one last dramatic reveal (or three.) A part of me wondered if the author enjoyed screwing with her audiences, but then again I enjoyed being screwed with. So take that what you will. 

I did enjoy reading about Elijah and Zeke’s relationship. Although there were times when the relationship took a weird turn, I did admire Zeke’s ability to push through the bullshit. Moreover, I liked how dependent Elijah had become of Zeke, and how self-aware he is, especially with his self-harming and eating disorder. While I do agree that a lot of times, Elijah’s more harmful coping skills stem from a need for control, at the same time, I didn’t think Rosalind needed to complicate Elijah’s past further. In fact, I would’ve preferred Elijah just be a highly competent individual with a death wish, rather than layer it with hidden plots and duplicities. Moreover, I liked how vulnerable they are willing to be with each other. Even though they “hardly” knew each other, they were able to rely on one another in times of need. 

Due to the almost volatile nature of the relationship, and the admittedly unnecessary, but entertaining, drama surrounding their relationship, I would give this book a 3.5 out of 5 stars. 

Book Review for Always There For You by Halli Starling

I received this book for free. This does not impact my review in any shape or form.

Always There for You, by Halli Starling, is a new adult novella about two best friends who fell in love with each other, supporting one another through life’s celebrations and disappointments. The book introduces Amelia, who had long since succumbed to her infatuation with Hadley. Hadley decides to help Amelia open her wine store, where the two only grow closer over time. The story eventually culminates into a happily-ever-after, with Amelia and Hadley knowing they’ll be each other, no matter what obstacles they might face. 

This was a very cozy romance that I didn’t know I needed. It’s painful when you’ve fallen for someone wonderful but know that you can’t be anything more than friends. It’s especially true when the person you’ve fallen for is either straight or just doesn’t see you that way. Regardless, Amelia doesn’t push things. She respects the boundaries Hadley puts up (real or imagined), and concentrates on her store. She cherishes Hadley’s presence, and honors her rather than tears her down. I also think it’s rather sweet that, because of her obsession with Hadley, how distant Amelia is with others.  

All in all, I did enjoy the book. The encounters between Amelia and Hadley were charming. In fact, the only conflict seems to be the will-they-won’t-they tension they have every time they talk with one another. Adding in the uncertainty of starting a business, and suddenly, the readers, alongside the characters, are glad Amelia has such a strong support system, romantic or not.

As such, I’m giving this book a 4.5 out of 5 stars. 

Book Review for The Golden Haired Boy by Scarlet Blackwell

I received this book for free. This does not impact my review in any shape or form. 

The Golden Haired Boy, by Scarlet Blackwell, is a gothic romance about a vampire who falls in love with a young man, however futile it may seem. Despite his restraints, his moving away, his avoidance of said young man, he continues to return to him.  The lonely vampire follows him throughout the years, becoming more and more consumed by the thought of him, until the man is at the brink of death.

I’ve got to admit, I was a little reluctant at first, especially with the name. And yet, as I read through the book, I fell in love with it. It reminded me of a gothic romance in the form of a journal. I liked the relationship between Johann and Lucas, and although Johann had to cope with Lucas continuing to live his life, it never really stopped the two of them from being together. I loved the idea of Johann visiting Lucas once a year, and that, no matter how much he tries to resist, he still comes to see him. In a way, it’s almost like a drug. Then again, love has been compared to an addiction, borderline codependency, but hey, it’s the thought that counts.

That being said, I enjoyed this romance more so than I do other vampire romances (looking at you Twilight). I can see myself reading this again during Samhain, and again at Yule, when it’s cold, and you need a good story to cozy up to. As such, I would give this book a 4.5 out of 5 stars. 

Book Review for Eyes of the Beholder by Swinn Daniels

I received this book for free. This does not impact my review in any shape or form.

Eyes of the Beholder, by Swinn Daniels, is a contemporary romance about an aspiring photographer named Juliette Burns, daughter of the famous Jack Burns. She applies for an assistant position for Saxon Payne, a world famous photographer whose talent stems from the darkness in his past. When the two meet, it’s love at first sight, and from then on, they resolve to stay by each other, no matter the obstacles that come their way.

The couple, as well as their friends, were likable. There wasn’t any drama that stemmed from their interactions with each other (other than Cassie, who’s just a mean girl, not an actual threat). I enjoyed the scenes between Saxon and Juliette, and although their relationship was fast paced, it was healthy. It seemed that things will take a darker turn later on, but for the most part, this was an okay romance.

I certainly appreciate how open everyone was with each other. Even though they acted over the top every now and then, there’s an acceptance with each of them, rather than tolerance. They all have a strong connection to art, and through it they celebrate the human body, sexuality, and love. It’s a far cry from America’s rigid standards on sexuality, but I’m certainly happy it’s brought to the forefront. 

As such, I’d give this book a 3.5 over 5 stars. 

Book Review for War of the Sea by Dana Claire

I received this book for free. This does not impact my review in any shape or form.

The War of the Sea, by Dana Claire, is a paranormal fantasy about two captains who, after a series of mishaps and misunderstandings, team up to take down the Siren Queen Lorelei, and come to terms with what remains of their heritage. Elouise “Lou” Farrington is the captain of The Freedom, and the sea’s only woman captain. After being propositioned by Captain Rylander Bordeaux, her father’s killer, to destroy the Siren Queen, she decides to side with him, in exchange for his death. Captain Rylander, the “Emperor of the Sea”, has been dragged into a power struggle, and in order to protect his loved ones, he forces himself to work with Lou, a captain who already has a grudge against him. Against all odds, the two grow closer, and together, they risk their lives and the lives of their crew members to destroy the threat looming before them. 

This was funnier than I thought it was going to be. Although the attraction was a little unnerving, especially with how hard Lou fell for, you know, her father’s killer, I still enjoyed the relationship they both had. I’m going to admit; it would’ve been nice if they stayed friends. They could’ve been bash siblings or something, depending on each other but also torturing each other mentally and emotionally, but I’m not complaining. It becomes more understandable when Lou realized why her father was shanked. It doesn’t make the fact any easier, but it does illustrate her character. In spite of all the fear she inspires, she’s a good person. More than that she’s hot headed, and willing to adapt to any situation, regardless of her alliances. Rylander, in my opinion, is the male version of her; to him, family is everything, and although he didn’t want to, he will destroy his own kind if it meant saving Lou and her crew. I also like the relationship he has with his auntie and uncle; it’s cute, it’s quirky, and it screams lovable. 

This was a unique way to incorporate the Greek mythos. I enjoyed how petty Poseidon was, and how, when the gods couldn’t resolve their differences, they bring their problems to the humans. It’s also unbelievable that these all powerful beings were stopped by sigils, but it’s also what makes ordinary people heroes, even though Lou and Rylander are far from ordinary. I’ll admit though; it would’ve been nice to hear Rylander’s voice against Lorelei’s, but again, not complaining, especially given how bloodthirsty she is. 

The book was a fun read. I enjoyed the romance between the main characters, even though I didn’t think it was necessary. It was a story of good and evil, with good triumphing and getting a happy end. In a way, it almost reads like a fairytale. As such, I would give it a 4 out of 5 stars. 

Book Review for The Death of a Songbird by M.R McCoy

I received this book for free. This does not impact my review in any shape or form.

The Death of a Songbird, by M.R McCoy, is a dark, dystopian fantasy about what it means to survive in a world of corruption and decay. The book begins with Gerolt, a young man who wants more than what New Geneva is prepared to give him. Trying to care for a dying father and blind mother, he decides to go into town to sell animal skin he sews together. While selling his products, he meets a girl named Harmony who, after seeing his crafts, trades him her family’s meat pies for his creation. After Harmony’s father learns that she has a frightening ability known as hysteresis, he attempts to sell her off to the League to become a Purity Maiden. She runs away with Gerolt then, and together, they begin a long journey of brutality, loss, and resilience.

The summary above cannot do this book justice. I absolutely love Gerolt and Harmony, and it saddened me when Gerolt loses himself in the fight to protect his family. True, New Geneva’s physical abuse towards its female members is downright cruel, but I can’t begin to imagine what it must feel like to lose your husband to the same regime you tried to escape. But, despite it, he regains himself, even though it’s too late. That being said, I feel that Gerolt and Harmony’s happiness survives within Wren. Wren, a strong young woman who has the strength to fight for what her parents cannot. Wren who, even though she witnessed the death of her older brother, was still willing to escape into the same world he died in. It certainly helps that she has friends along the way, and though I worry for her, I know that she’s in good hands. 

I also liked how McCoy parallels the strict doctrine of the League Fathers to the Bible. All the propaganda the League tries to perpetuate is similar to the political agendas of a lot of Southern Baptist churches (there’s a reason why so many people are leaving). Moreover, I like the economic struggles that New Geneva are going through as well; though  not their fault, the purity maidens are driving everyone out of the business. But of course, it doesn’t matter, as long as the League Fathers and their higher ups are having a good time, right? Similar to the tycoons in America, the elitists that run Wall Street, and even our own Senate; everyone exists to serve them, and if we come out of line, that’s another story entirely. 

I look forward to reading more from this series. I’d love to see how Gerolt and Harmony free themselves from the League, and how Nico’s rebellion pans out. And although I hate Solomon Pipher (with a passion), I am interested to see what his character development would look like. You’d think that, coming from nothing he has some empathy for the girls and for those living outside the walls, but unfortunately, absolute power corrupts. As such, I would give this book a rating of 5 stars out of 5. 

Book Review for Dragon’s Son by M.K Casperson

I received this book for free. This does not impact my review in any shape or form.

Dragon’s Son, by M.K Casperson, is a fantasy romance about the trust a young King and Queen have in one another, as well as the treachery that threatens to tear them apart. The book is separated into five parts. Part One introduces Princess Amarea who, after her Kingdom of Pelizia has fallen, is sent to be married to the enemy prince to appease the conquerors. Alexis, said enemy Beotian prince, decides to right in his journal to Amarea about his history, including about his older brother, Villian, and how they discovered they were both dragons. Part Two showcases Amarea getting used to her life in Beotia, as well as Alexis, who, despite his hesitation, deciding to align with Villian in his bid for the throne. Part Three has Alexis and Amarea meeting each other for the first time and, although Alexis painted himself a charming facade toward Amarea, reminded that the Queen still doesn’t know much about him. Part Four shows Amarea and Alexis fighting together in order to bring peace to the kingdom of Beotia, with Amarea holding down the political fort, and Alexis becoming a dragon to defeat his brother once and for all. Part Five ends with Amarea and Alexis finally achieving peace in the midst of the trials and tribulations they’ve undergone.

I enjoyed the relationship that Amarea and Alexis developed. Although Amarea did fall for the fairytale version of Alexis, she was still able to accept the real him despite the lie. She had a choice not to; she could’ve sided with the court nobles and rebel against Alexis, but in the end, she stayed loyal and continued to hope for the opportunity to get to know him. I also liked how, even though Alexis barely knew her, he still fought for her. I felt that they were fighting for their futures, and while it may be a scary thing, it was necessary. I especially loved how they switched roles midway between the book, symbolizing the shared understanding they have with one another. 

Which brings me to another thing; Villian was only concerned about short term goals. He drowned in his greed, and didn’t think of how his actions affected others (for a while, I thought his name was Villain, which wasn’t at all foreshadowing anything). Alexis, on the other hand, as well as Amarea, knew what it took to survive, and they did so anyways. They knew how to be flexible, knew how to prosper in the face of ruin, while Villian had his glory given to him. He was always praised, never a disappointment. It nourished his ego, so much so he killed his own offspring (and tried to kill his own father) for his own desires (and I highly doubt he cares). 

This was a solid book that speaks volumes on what it means to stay true to who you are. It was straightforward, and gave testament to its characters’ strengths. As such, I would give it a 4.5 out of 5 stars. 

Book Review for Haunting in Hartley by Janice Tremayne

I received this book for free. This does not impact my review in any shape or form.

Haunting in Hartley, by Janice Tremayne, is a gothic horror novel about a young woman who must overcome a malevolent entity that threatens to destroy her loved ones. Clarisse and her husband, Harry, are currently visiting Hartley in Australia. They decide to take a tour with Paranormal Jack, an eccentric man who, much like his name, takes an interest in ghosts and other nightmarish beings. After Harry and Jack run into the supposed ghost of Father Grimaldi, Jack suddenly dies. With time running out, and Harry’s life on the line, Clarisse must find a way to defeat this evil entity that gleefully wants to destroy them all. 

I’m not going to lie, I definitely empathize with the phantom. We’ve seen the victims he’s gathered, people who have experienced loss, trauma, and grief. Although he was parasitic, I could understand how he was able to lure them in; after all, everyone wanted a safe place to belong, somewhere where they can’t be hurt again. It made sense for Eleanor and Little Charlie. But even so, Tremayne reminds us of the phantom’s darkness, that at the end of the day, it doesn’t care about anyone else but itself. It wants to lure people in, people who have a certain innocence to them, if only to be corrupted. Perhaps the devil behind it feels that the more light it consumes, the more likely it’ll get into heaven. The same could be said with the Catholic Church. Despite the facade it puts up, it nourishes sin more than forgives it. And while so many, like Father O’Hara, may seek said forgiveness, in the end they’re lost. They can’t hope to find it, no matter how many times they lie to themselves. It’s the same with the phantom. 

I also enjoyed the concept of the chest being a sort of Pandora’s Box intertwined with a Faustian contract. It promises you everything. It lets you see into the future, bring wealth and power beyond your wildest imagination, and yet at the end of it, you’d be lost to it. I’m not going to lie; there are a lot of people right now who would give anything to have that kind of power, what with the economy and all. Moreover, the fact that we’ve seen how corrupt religious institutions can be, regardless of affiliation, can definitely push us into that direction. It’s why we have to have strong morals, why, no matter what tempts us, we need to keep moving forward. 

The editing could definitely use a lot of work, especially since I felt there were more than a few repetitive phrases. The sentences could’ve flown smoother, and there are times when I felt the author was telling me what was going on, rather than showing me. Despite that, I absolutely loved the plot. I liked how intricate the details were, as well as the descriptions of the ghosts. I would’ve preferred the ending be more fleshed out, but nonetheless, this was a solid book. As such, I would give this book a 3.5 out of 5 stars.