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The Drowned Phoenician Sailor
Fynn is resolutely unromantic, a bit of a loner, and sceptical about life before death, never mind after it. And yet since she was fifteen her dead sister has been visiting her on a regular basis. Fynn doesn’t believe in ghosts so is she crazy? Three years after starting psychotherapy with Paul, she arrives for a session and finds him lying dead on the couch. But this is just the beginning... The same night she gatecrashes Paul’s funeral he turns up in his newly disembodied form and her dilemma takes a different turn... And when she meets the enigmatic Jack, washed up like driftwood on a beach in Cornwall, she begins to revise her jaded beliefs and expectations, discovering that life, and death, is far more mysterious and intricate than she imagined.
262 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 5, 2014
3 people are currently reading
14 people want to read
About the author
Lesley Hayes
32 books63 followersLesley Hayes was born in Deptford, in South East London, in 1948, and started writing almost as soon as she could talk. Her first story was published when she won a literary competition at the age of 13. Between 1966 and 1992 she was regularly and prolifically published in literary and women's magazines, writing stories, serials and articles, and in 1986 had a novel published called 'Keeping Secrets'. For the following two years she had a weekly slot on BBC Radio Oxford reading her short stories, and in 1999 a collection of linked stories called 'Oxford Marmalade' was brought out on audiotape, read by the actress Susanna Dawson. Her son and daughter, born respectively in 1969 and 1971, helped her throughout these years to keep her feet on the ground and her sense of humour alive and well and occasionally kicking. In 1990 she came to the conclusion that continuing to write about the fascinating vagaries of the human condition just wouldn't be enough, and for the next four years she trained to become an integrative psychotherapist. Her long and successful career as a psychotherapist over the ensuing years took her away from fiction writing, but brought quite different rewards. It was a fork in the road she never once regretted taking, and she was aware of using many of same creative skills and insights. During the past five years the compelling urge to write fiction has again emerged, and she has given in gracefully to the inevitable return to her first love. Her novels 'A Field Beyond Time' and 'The Drowned Phoenician Sailor' are available on kindle, along with three collections of short stories: 'The Oscar Dossier','Without a Safety Net' and the aptly named 'Not Like Other People.' As you might expect, now that the genie has once again escaped from the bottle, more will soon follow.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
September 26, 2014
Intelligent and beguiling, I was drawn to turn each page by the wonderful craft of Lesley Hayes. My biggest problem is trying to review this lovely book without giving away too much. Undoubtedly different people will get different things from this story and certainly I get the impression that this may be intentional. From my perspective it is an exploration of the human condition in a very original fashion. At the heart of the story the main character Fynn (Fiona) is troubled by many issues from her past and here I will not give away too much, but the mechanism by which Lesley explores this, gives us a very clever plot line and I thoroughly enjoyed the story from beginning to end.
I saw a rather troubled heroin from the start and loved that I could not see where Lesley was going to bring me. The journey is both original and smart and Lesley keeps you guessing throughout the book. For me it is an exploration of happiness and where it comes from, how it is ultimately a choice and not a given without our consent. The path to finding that happiness is explored here in such an unusual way and I am the better for finding this gem of a book.
Importantly the above is my personal conclusion not a summary of the plot. Lesley tells her tale with much intrigue, drama and a lovely balanced pace. Each character is perfectly drawn and with the introduction of every new person to the story, the reader gets a deeper knowledge of Fynn and perhaps more importantly it feels as though we are witnessing Fynn’s growing understanding of her own life through her eyes not ours. For me this is the real quality of Lesley’s craft.
I am not genre-centric so I read many varied books, few I have read and enjoyed as much as this one. The only thing you will need as a prerequisite to reading this one is a desire to find a really good story. Pick up The Drowned Phoenician Sailor and you will have found one. Well Done Lesley Hayes. This book is one to read and recommend wholeheartedly. I Loved it. Five stars out of five.
I saw a rather troubled heroin from the start and loved that I could not see where Lesley was going to bring me. The journey is both original and smart and Lesley keeps you guessing throughout the book. For me it is an exploration of happiness and where it comes from, how it is ultimately a choice and not a given without our consent. The path to finding that happiness is explored here in such an unusual way and I am the better for finding this gem of a book.
Importantly the above is my personal conclusion not a summary of the plot. Lesley tells her tale with much intrigue, drama and a lovely balanced pace. Each character is perfectly drawn and with the introduction of every new person to the story, the reader gets a deeper knowledge of Fynn and perhaps more importantly it feels as though we are witnessing Fynn’s growing understanding of her own life through her eyes not ours. For me this is the real quality of Lesley’s craft.
I am not genre-centric so I read many varied books, few I have read and enjoyed as much as this one. The only thing you will need as a prerequisite to reading this one is a desire to find a really good story. Pick up The Drowned Phoenician Sailor and you will have found one. Well Done Lesley Hayes. This book is one to read and recommend wholeheartedly. I Loved it. Five stars out of five.
April 9, 2015
The author is a psychotherapist and it clearly shows in The Drowned Phoenician Sailor. As I began reading I became intrigued with her writing and the story. It was with some trepidation that I read on. I say this because it was apparent to me that it would stir a lot emotions. I began to wonder if the story was in some way a self psychoanalytical process or journey for Lesley Hayes, if it wasn't, it sure was for me.
Visions of the dearly departed gave Fynn- the protagonist- a chance to dissect her emotions and ask questions only she could answer. We all do this, but not with the dead, we do it with the little voices in our head - very cleverly done Lesley Hayes.
The book overall was a roller-coaster ride of emotions and I loved the way they were examined and treated by the author.
The written language in The Drowned Phoenician Sailor is deep but beautiful. Humour was subtle at sometimes, tongue in cheek at others all made for an enjoyable book with the story and the written word at its best.
I highly recommend this book. It's not often nowadays people buy paperbacks to keep on their bookshelf but this is one I will gladly purchase.
Visions of the dearly departed gave Fynn- the protagonist- a chance to dissect her emotions and ask questions only she could answer. We all do this, but not with the dead, we do it with the little voices in our head - very cleverly done Lesley Hayes.
The book overall was a roller-coaster ride of emotions and I loved the way they were examined and treated by the author.
The written language in The Drowned Phoenician Sailor is deep but beautiful. Humour was subtle at sometimes, tongue in cheek at others all made for an enjoyable book with the story and the written word at its best.
I highly recommend this book. It's not often nowadays people buy paperbacks to keep on their bookshelf but this is one I will gladly purchase.
October 18, 2014
Lesley has managed within this tale to encapsulate many levels of emotion. Note that I say levels rather than depths, because you will find the folk in this story believable and experiencing the highs and lows of life. The plot serves to provide characters with frailty in one area and strength in another. On occasion some of these characters, who are all well-rounded, find themselves at loggerheads, while at other times becoming allies.
I’ve read this author’s work before so knew to expect good imagery, great dialogue and effective storytelling and I wasn’t disappointed. If you are a lover of language then this story will appeal to you in particular.
This is at once a story of love, loss, respect, affection, strength, weakness and so much more besides. Read it and get to know the characters. Enjoy it and remember it for a long time to come for all the right reasons. I highly recommend it.
I’ve read this author’s work before so knew to expect good imagery, great dialogue and effective storytelling and I wasn’t disappointed. If you are a lover of language then this story will appeal to you in particular.
This is at once a story of love, loss, respect, affection, strength, weakness and so much more besides. Read it and get to know the characters. Enjoy it and remember it for a long time to come for all the right reasons. I highly recommend it.
August 2, 2014
This is a wonderfully written story. For those who have undergone some sort of counselling/therapy, you will relate to some of the scenarios/dialogue between Fynn and Paul. The way Fynn becomes an unwilling centrepoint to Paul's family, Paul's amusing appearances throughout the book, the mysterious Jack who Fynn's free spirited mother finds washed up on a beach all make for an extremely enjoyable, funny, heartwarming and touching tale of self discovery and awareness. Thoroughly recommended.
September 23, 2014
The Drowned Phoenician Sailor shouts quality before one even gets to chapter 1. No other writer (to date) has given me Stevie Smith and T.S. Eliot to get me into the right frame of mind; and then that first paragraph: "...the cat, eyeballing me into subservience" - BLISS, like slipping into a warm jacuzzi, prior to being massaged by words precisely chosen and arranged in just the right order.
This is Lesley Hayes at her best, and a superb best it is: sharply analytical, deeply observant about the vagaries of the human character and reliably lyrical in her use of language. You just know you’re in a very safe pair of well-informed, wittily writerly hands.
The story chronicles an interesting period in the life of Fynn, short for Fiona (the name her controlling, unfaithful father insisted on). She also goes by the name of Kaya – her ‘soul’ name given to her by her now “aging hippie”, very likeable mother. Lesley Hayes has told us in her “Meet My Character” blog (http://bit.ly/WbKT8S ) that “it’s in using her ‘soul name’ that she discovers more of who she really is throughout the course of the novel.”
Fynn/Kaya tells us quite early on, she’d “had a happy childhood. Well, no more miserable than most!” However, in adulthood, particular memories kept returning to ‘haunt her’ – hence the need for her therapist Paul, who “loved life” and “lived love”. His sudden, unexpected death leaves her with unfinished business, and she embarks on a journey towards a kind of happiness: a journey guided in a most intriguing way by an unlikely pair of “ghosts”.
One of the things I love most about Lesley Hayes’ books is the entertaining way in which I learn so much about people and the different ways they find to deal with their experiences of abusive behaviour – some by abusing in their turn and others by incredible feats of forgiveness, reinvention and renewal. In consequence, I feel better able to deal with the vagaries of my own existence having read them, and that is no mean feat.
Fynn’s father was “anything but” a father figure, and her mother was “a fallen angel”. Does that ring any bells for anyone? Fynn says “I always saw in her the absence where someone should have loved her more.” In savouring this book I highlighted hundreds of passages like that, at least one on every page: deep, questioning, thoughtful, perceptive observations in a smooth and cultured prose.
Above all it’s a hopeful book, ending with Fynn/Kaya discovering “what it’s like when you are happy” (it’s all so simple, really); by which time we are acutely aware “how intricate are the strands of connection that the universe weaves.”
I recommend this book without reservation.
This is Lesley Hayes at her best, and a superb best it is: sharply analytical, deeply observant about the vagaries of the human character and reliably lyrical in her use of language. You just know you’re in a very safe pair of well-informed, wittily writerly hands.
The story chronicles an interesting period in the life of Fynn, short for Fiona (the name her controlling, unfaithful father insisted on). She also goes by the name of Kaya – her ‘soul’ name given to her by her now “aging hippie”, very likeable mother. Lesley Hayes has told us in her “Meet My Character” blog (http://bit.ly/WbKT8S ) that “it’s in using her ‘soul name’ that she discovers more of who she really is throughout the course of the novel.”
Fynn/Kaya tells us quite early on, she’d “had a happy childhood. Well, no more miserable than most!” However, in adulthood, particular memories kept returning to ‘haunt her’ – hence the need for her therapist Paul, who “loved life” and “lived love”. His sudden, unexpected death leaves her with unfinished business, and she embarks on a journey towards a kind of happiness: a journey guided in a most intriguing way by an unlikely pair of “ghosts”.
One of the things I love most about Lesley Hayes’ books is the entertaining way in which I learn so much about people and the different ways they find to deal with their experiences of abusive behaviour – some by abusing in their turn and others by incredible feats of forgiveness, reinvention and renewal. In consequence, I feel better able to deal with the vagaries of my own existence having read them, and that is no mean feat.
Fynn’s father was “anything but” a father figure, and her mother was “a fallen angel”. Does that ring any bells for anyone? Fynn says “I always saw in her the absence where someone should have loved her more.” In savouring this book I highlighted hundreds of passages like that, at least one on every page: deep, questioning, thoughtful, perceptive observations in a smooth and cultured prose.
Above all it’s a hopeful book, ending with Fynn/Kaya discovering “what it’s like when you are happy” (it’s all so simple, really); by which time we are acutely aware “how intricate are the strands of connection that the universe weaves.”
I recommend this book without reservation.
June 13, 2015
I thought the drowned Phoenician a very cleverly written story with a lovely turn of phrase and rich vocabulary. It escapes many of the limitations that restrict other stories written in the first person perspective. The author uses many tools to broaden that self-oriented perspective to a less subjective view. One of those tools is the use of ghosts who communicate only with the main character. These wraiths (as she likes to refer to them) may or may not be delusional figments of her imagination; however, they act as her own sub personalities. We have the mute child ghost of her dead twin sister. Her acted out charades almost represent the main character’s own child persona inside, which was stunted early in life through trauma. Then we have the ghost of her dead counselor; the person she felt closest to because he seemingly understood her. His ongoing psychoanalysis allows the author to offer counter and contrary views and perspectives to the main character. This works well because the story is subtly narrated in the first person perspective, and his added understandings help to broaden her perspective.
This is a story about character. The author implies throughout, that a person’s character when seen through the eyes of another is like the tip of an iceberg. Sometimes it takes a person’s death, before the depth of their character becomes truly evident. Subjectively we understand other people through processing an accumulation of stories we tell ourselves about them. Hence, we can often misunderstand other people by seeing such stories out of context.
I liked the introduction of the character of Jack. He was made purposely mysterious; in order to act as a catalyst to the other characters with whom he interacted. He reminded me of Steppenwolf, my all time favorite book character, and he watched a film called ‘the Fountain’; you guessed it, my favorite. Thus, Jack alone earns this clever book a very well deserved 5 stars.
This is a story about character. The author implies throughout, that a person’s character when seen through the eyes of another is like the tip of an iceberg. Sometimes it takes a person’s death, before the depth of their character becomes truly evident. Subjectively we understand other people through processing an accumulation of stories we tell ourselves about them. Hence, we can often misunderstand other people by seeing such stories out of context.
I liked the introduction of the character of Jack. He was made purposely mysterious; in order to act as a catalyst to the other characters with whom he interacted. He reminded me of Steppenwolf, my all time favorite book character, and he watched a film called ‘the Fountain’; you guessed it, my favorite. Thus, Jack alone earns this clever book a very well deserved 5 stars.
August 6, 2014
The title is a reference to the tarot in T S Eliot’s The Waste Land, and is an ambiguous symbol of rebirth and/or doom. The heroine, Fynn, is a troubled personality whose long-dead twin sister Abby appears to her at intervals. Is Abby a spirit or a hallucination? In an attempt to stop these visitations, Fynn has been in psychotherapy with Paul for some time when, arriving at his consulting room for a session, she discovers him lifeless in his chair. But death does not mean the end of Paul’s contribution to Fynn’s life. Soon after the funeral, his apparition also begins to visit her. Their work together continues as Fynn embarks on a series of encounters with members of Paul’s dysfunctional family, from whom she manages to hide the fact that she was Paul’s client. A massive twist of fate involving Fynn’s ethereally-minded and tarot card-reading mother finally brings satisfaction of Fynn’s hitherto hopeless desire for true love.
This is a pacy, quirky page-turner that reads like a thriller while, at intervals, nourishing the reader’s soul with illuminating observations about relationships. The author is an Oxford-based, psychotherapist currently in the process of retiring. She was a prolific author prior to starting psychotherapy training in 1990, and returned to writing five years ago.
This is a pacy, quirky page-turner that reads like a thriller while, at intervals, nourishing the reader’s soul with illuminating observations about relationships. The author is an Oxford-based, psychotherapist currently in the process of retiring. She was a prolific author prior to starting psychotherapy training in 1990, and returned to writing five years ago.
March 24, 2015
For someone who is a lover of plot driven stories, I often find character driven ones such as "The Drowned Phoenician Sailor" a tad on the difficult side.
There were a few moments in this book where it started to lag and I'll be honest in saying it was easy to put down when other things were distracting, but it was enjoyable enough to pick up again.
The main character Fynn, aka Kaya, was incredibly easy to relate to. I think everyone would easily identify with her and share common ground.
I found her interactions with her dead therapist, Paul, quite entertaining, which makes me ponder the question - was it really his ghost? Or was Kaya just imagining him, as well as her sister who she had been able to still see for decades after her death. She knew them both so well, couldn't it be possible that she was creating them in her mind, creating what they would do/how they would react/ what they would say, to surround herself with familiarity in a world she's never really felt comfortable in? (Probably the most relatable thing about her, I found.)
The minor twist was well placed, having only predicted it mere moments before it was revealed, and the writing was so well done, it can't be faulted.
There were a few moments in this book where it started to lag and I'll be honest in saying it was easy to put down when other things were distracting, but it was enjoyable enough to pick up again.
The main character Fynn, aka Kaya, was incredibly easy to relate to. I think everyone would easily identify with her and share common ground.
I found her interactions with her dead therapist, Paul, quite entertaining, which makes me ponder the question - was it really his ghost? Or was Kaya just imagining him, as well as her sister who she had been able to still see for decades after her death. She knew them both so well, couldn't it be possible that she was creating them in her mind, creating what they would do/how they would react/ what they would say, to surround herself with familiarity in a world she's never really felt comfortable in? (Probably the most relatable thing about her, I found.)
The minor twist was well placed, having only predicted it mere moments before it was revealed, and the writing was so well done, it can't be faulted.
August 12, 2014
First and foremost, this is an enjoyable novel to read.
That said, it's more than just a good story. As might be inferred from a title that quotes from Elliot's "The Burial of the Dead" it is a tale that works on many levels as it explores: what makes a person's identity, how to resolve grief, what is real and much more.
If all that sounds a little heavy, I can assure you that it is fun to read. Heartily recommended.
That said, it's more than just a good story. As might be inferred from a title that quotes from Elliot's "The Burial of the Dead" it is a tale that works on many levels as it explores: what makes a person's identity, how to resolve grief, what is real and much more.
If all that sounds a little heavy, I can assure you that it is fun to read. Heartily recommended.
January 18, 2019
Imagine, if you will, a lace-maker creating intricate designs with thread from a dozen separate bobbins and you will have an idea of the fascinating complexity of The Phoenician Sailor.
Is Fynn, Fynn (Fiona), or is she Kaya, and which of them found the body?
Kaya’s mother is Phoebe, and nobody could resist Phoebe with her eternal optimism that twenty-five years on, Leon, her ex, might realise his mistake and come back.
Kaya, or Fynn, is more concerned about her own sanity, because Abby, or Kassia, has haunted her for years, and now her “dead” therapist is intent on doing the same.
And that is only the left hand’s bobbins; the right controls the strands of another entwined story.
As always, Lesley Hayes invades your own thoughts with questions about choices made, mortality, beliefs – “It isn’t forgiving someone else that’s hard. It’s forgiving yourself”.
Is Fynn, Fynn (Fiona), or is she Kaya, and which of them found the body?
Kaya’s mother is Phoebe, and nobody could resist Phoebe with her eternal optimism that twenty-five years on, Leon, her ex, might realise his mistake and come back.
Kaya, or Fynn, is more concerned about her own sanity, because Abby, or Kassia, has haunted her for years, and now her “dead” therapist is intent on doing the same.
And that is only the left hand’s bobbins; the right controls the strands of another entwined story.
As always, Lesley Hayes invades your own thoughts with questions about choices made, mortality, beliefs – “It isn’t forgiving someone else that’s hard. It’s forgiving yourself”.
September 10, 2020
I purchased this book because of the amazing reviews on Amazon and oh boy, they were all right. Such a good book with great characters that keeps you obsessed with every page since the first one. I couldn't put this down until I ended. The characters are so real and so well writen that you can easily find yourself or a friend reflected on them, you start to love and care for them. Fynn is easily one of the more complex characters I´ve ever read and I had so much fun with her. I´m eager to read more from Lesley Hayes. Totally recommended!!!
April 14, 2015
I've just this minute finished this book and felt the urge to share my experience of it. From the outset, it seems that Lesley has the ability to lull the reader into a false sense of security. It's a little like a swimming pool, you know the type, they have a shallow end and a gently sloping gradient and at first, you feel great. You splosh straight in, the water covers your toes and you swish about making foamy bubble patterns, then you take a few steps forwards and the water reaches your knees, and then your waist, as you continue to laugh at the tingling sensations. Before you know it, you're taking more steps forwards and soon find yourself immersed completely. That's how this book grabbed me.
It came at a time when my emotions had been steam-rolled by a common foe. Oddly, the nature of the story has given me an immense sense of solace, of understanding and even a degree of acceptance of recent events - for that alone I owe a great debt to Lesley Hayes. I read the first 50% of this book in just one sitting - then it occurred to me that I didn't want to get to the end. The story centres around the insecurities of Fynn/Kaya, a lady with a degree of mistrust, condemnation even, of the world and almost everyone in it. She hides behind the emotional walls of her logic, able to explain most things in a sensible, reasoned manner - that is until events lead her into the core of her own mind causing her to re-evaluate her entire being. The way that this story is written is nothing short of epic. Lesley's ability to utilise words in such a way as to induce questions in a readers mind really is a talent - you think you know what's coming, but do you really? The depiction of each character allows a reader to bond with them, able to almost feel their feelings, particularly in the case of Fynn/Kaya; there were several times when I mentally wrapped her up in my own arms to protect her. One of the things I really liked was the introduction... the explanation of how the title to the piece came about. If ever there were a more appropriately titled book, I have yet to find it. Kudos for the intro indeed.
I loved the fact that time was taken to let us know what happened to each of the characters, as a reader, they belong to me, and the relationship I develop with them as I read means that it matters to me. You'll notice that I haven't gone into the actual details and plot of this story, that's because I don't want to spoil the effect that reading it will have upon you. It is one of those books that I'll read again at some point, one that literally commands a place on a bookshelf, if such a place is at all possible on a kindle. Lesley Hayes, I take my hat off to you, today, you earned a new fan, justifiably so.
It came at a time when my emotions had been steam-rolled by a common foe. Oddly, the nature of the story has given me an immense sense of solace, of understanding and even a degree of acceptance of recent events - for that alone I owe a great debt to Lesley Hayes. I read the first 50% of this book in just one sitting - then it occurred to me that I didn't want to get to the end. The story centres around the insecurities of Fynn/Kaya, a lady with a degree of mistrust, condemnation even, of the world and almost everyone in it. She hides behind the emotional walls of her logic, able to explain most things in a sensible, reasoned manner - that is until events lead her into the core of her own mind causing her to re-evaluate her entire being. The way that this story is written is nothing short of epic. Lesley's ability to utilise words in such a way as to induce questions in a readers mind really is a talent - you think you know what's coming, but do you really? The depiction of each character allows a reader to bond with them, able to almost feel their feelings, particularly in the case of Fynn/Kaya; there were several times when I mentally wrapped her up in my own arms to protect her. One of the things I really liked was the introduction... the explanation of how the title to the piece came about. If ever there were a more appropriately titled book, I have yet to find it. Kudos for the intro indeed.
I loved the fact that time was taken to let us know what happened to each of the characters, as a reader, they belong to me, and the relationship I develop with them as I read means that it matters to me. You'll notice that I haven't gone into the actual details and plot of this story, that's because I don't want to spoil the effect that reading it will have upon you. It is one of those books that I'll read again at some point, one that literally commands a place on a bookshelf, if such a place is at all possible on a kindle. Lesley Hayes, I take my hat off to you, today, you earned a new fan, justifiably so.
January 27, 2015
I am always careful not to read too much about a book before I start as I enjoy the thrill of discovering the story for myself. This book was definitely a thrill to read, sometimes rushing through in excitement, other times pausing to contemplate the deeper meanings but each chapter built a new layer of discovery. It is a story that expertly flows between several genres, psychological thriller, gentle supernatural and with a subtle heart-warming romance interwoven. Written with a humorous style, it tackles difficult family relationships, bereavement and the ghosts that linger on, but it is so much more. It remains a fun and uplifting read despite the serious themes and there is something in this magical story to satisfy every intelligent reader.
This wasn't so much like reading a story though, as living the life of Fynn the fabulous main character. As I became immersed in her world, the characters became my friends and family and I even acquired a pet cat for a short while!
All the characters were highly believable, the loveable quirky Phoebe, the intense but loyal Lisa and the mysterious Jack. Of course Morphius the cat deserves a special mention and cat lovers will no doubt appreciate the antics of this obstinate little character. And then there are Fynn's ghosts, whether they are really there or just a figment of her imagination is for you to decide. It really doesn't matter, the story works well whichever reality you choose to believe.
I raced to the end of the book desperate to know the ending, it certainly didn't disappoint but I won't spoil it for you. Initially, I was sad to have completed it and was left wanting more but now I feel comforted that I'll carry a little piece of Fynn with me. This is one book I will probably read several times over and gain something new from each read. I now look forward to reading more by the talented Lesley Hayes.
This wasn't so much like reading a story though, as living the life of Fynn the fabulous main character. As I became immersed in her world, the characters became my friends and family and I even acquired a pet cat for a short while!
All the characters were highly believable, the loveable quirky Phoebe, the intense but loyal Lisa and the mysterious Jack. Of course Morphius the cat deserves a special mention and cat lovers will no doubt appreciate the antics of this obstinate little character. And then there are Fynn's ghosts, whether they are really there or just a figment of her imagination is for you to decide. It really doesn't matter, the story works well whichever reality you choose to believe.
I raced to the end of the book desperate to know the ending, it certainly didn't disappoint but I won't spoil it for you. Initially, I was sad to have completed it and was left wanting more but now I feel comforted that I'll carry a little piece of Fynn with me. This is one book I will probably read several times over and gain something new from each read. I now look forward to reading more by the talented Lesley Hayes.
September 23, 2016
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Kaya is an emotionally-repressed young woman, struggling to cope with her twin sister’s death. Paul is her psychotherapist, the man to whom she looks for some rationalisation for the ghost she’s seeing, and Jack is the enigmatic young man who walks out of the sea and into her life.
Lesley Hayes takes a pinch of physic resonance, stirs in the afterlife, and cooks up an intriguing brew of cosmic inter-connectivity. She leads you kindly and with gentle humour to places you’ve already been and reassures you that it’s perfectly okay to be there, that’s its perfectly okay to be the person you are: that forgiveness of self is a blessing. She unpicks her characters stitch by careful stitch and reknits them into something new and beautiful. It’s like having a long heart-to-heart with an old friend. I left Kaya and Jack feeling at peace with myself and the world. As Douglas Adams wrote in Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy, ‘That’s all right then.’
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Michael James GallagherRobert K Swisher Jr.Brian ChaplinAlan James
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Patrick Christopher PowerVal TobinNico LaeserLesley Hayes
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Kaya is an emotionally-repressed young woman, struggling to cope with her twin sister’s death. Paul is her psychotherapist, the man to whom she looks for some rationalisation for the ghost she’s seeing, and Jack is the enigmatic young man who walks out of the sea and into her life.
Lesley Hayes takes a pinch of physic resonance, stirs in the afterlife, and cooks up an intriguing brew of cosmic inter-connectivity. She leads you kindly and with gentle humour to places you’ve already been and reassures you that it’s perfectly okay to be there, that’s its perfectly okay to be the person you are: that forgiveness of self is a blessing. She unpicks her characters stitch by careful stitch and reknits them into something new and beautiful. It’s like having a long heart-to-heart with an old friend. I left Kaya and Jack feeling at peace with myself and the world. As Douglas Adams wrote in Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy, ‘That’s all right then.’
May 4, 2015
I can honestly say I am sad after reading this book. Sad, due to the fact that I am now finished with it! I enjoyed every second of this book. I felt as if I were there right alongside the main character Fynn/Kaya, and even in her head and thoughts. The storyline is intriguing and perplex with just enough quirkiness to keep me chuckling. Lesley Hayes takes you on a journey through the complexities of human relationships, living or dead, in such a unique way that you truly sit back and eagerly join in on the ride. Her writing is almost lyrical in a sense, hypnotic. You do not want to put the book down because you are so wrapped up into what is happening, but also because it is beautifully written. I found myself highlighting and re-reading certain passages just because of the intricate way she worded things: such as the feeling of death, the arrogance of Fynn's feline companion, and Phoebe's mystical outlook on life... The way Hayes describes and explains the theme for how connected we are to one another as humans left me stunned. You feel as if you have finally reached that point of understanding in what life is all about, why we are all so connected. That 'Aha!' moment. And thankfully you reach that feeling as she wraps and weaves the story to a satisfying and geniusly written ending
October 24, 2015
Having read and enjoyed a number of Lesley’s short stories, I thought it was high time I read one of her novels and it didn’t disappoint. I admire the way Ms Hayes construct a sentence and she has a lightness of touch that stops this work from sinking into melodrama or becoming heavy. Her lightness and sense of humour makes this book very readable and enjoyable despite dealing with serious issues such as loss, abandonment and emotional abuse. I know the writer is a psychotherapist and it show in how she approaches her characters. Her main protagonist Kaya/Fynn we get to know as she finds her own therapist dead when turns up for their regular session. Fynn still has a lot of issues to sort out and maybe this is why the therapist manifests itself as a ghost. I found it at times uncomfortable as we got such an insight into her life. (Like listening at the door of a therapist session in progress) At times the pace dropped a little, but I put that down to relating more to some characters than others. (I think Jack would be someone I would hide from in a pub, for the fear of him dragging me into a deep philosophical discussion.) Lesley Hayes has written a beautiful book that will appeal to most, as the number of emotions explored, are many and I think every reader will recognise themselves at some point.
January 8, 2016
If you’re looking for a beautifully poignant character study, written with charming prose and style, this book is for you.
This is a character driven story with a delightfully flawed and fascinating protagonist in Fynn/Kaya. Fynn is in therapy, but right at the start her sessions are rudely interrupted by fate, and she finds herself embroiled in unexpected family drama.
Psychology runs throughout the novel challenging Fynn’s cynicism as her life takes unforeseen turns. I was hooked early on – keen to see where the author was taking me and I wasn’t disappointed. I kept reading, unfurling Fynn’s story and smiling every time I was lead around a new corner. Even when I was sure I knew where I was heading, the reveals and twists delighted and satisfied me.
Hayes understands the human condition (as far as anyone can appreciate our quirks) and her writing draws you in with humour and pathos, and some profound paragraphs. Oh, and I loved Morpheus, if you’re a cat-lover you’ll understand!
I especially love the name of the book and Hayes invites you, in her preface, to decide which character you think deserves the titular tribute – I nodded my head sagely and made my choice at the close of the novel…who will you choose?
This is a real voyage of discovery and I’m excited to see where this author’s books can take me in the future.
This is a character driven story with a delightfully flawed and fascinating protagonist in Fynn/Kaya. Fynn is in therapy, but right at the start her sessions are rudely interrupted by fate, and she finds herself embroiled in unexpected family drama.
Psychology runs throughout the novel challenging Fynn’s cynicism as her life takes unforeseen turns. I was hooked early on – keen to see where the author was taking me and I wasn’t disappointed. I kept reading, unfurling Fynn’s story and smiling every time I was lead around a new corner. Even when I was sure I knew where I was heading, the reveals and twists delighted and satisfied me.
Hayes understands the human condition (as far as anyone can appreciate our quirks) and her writing draws you in with humour and pathos, and some profound paragraphs. Oh, and I loved Morpheus, if you’re a cat-lover you’ll understand!
I especially love the name of the book and Hayes invites you, in her preface, to decide which character you think deserves the titular tribute – I nodded my head sagely and made my choice at the close of the novel…who will you choose?
This is a real voyage of discovery and I’m excited to see where this author’s books can take me in the future.
March 9, 2015
A beautifully written book containing believable characters with depth which raises interesting questions. I really was not surprised to note the author is also a psychotherapist.
A short summary of the book, without giving too much away - the book opens with the death of Fynn's therapist and ends with her feeling more at ease with the concerns she sought therapy for in the first place.
I tend to read mystery/crime books where there is a clear goal or mystery to solve, that propels me through the book. This book has a beginning, middle and end but the distinctions are less clear (some might say, less formulaic). It is more of a "snapshot" of a few months, charting the progress of the central character's "journey." Her journey is one we all share; dealing with fears and insecurities, trying to make connections to create meaning and seeking love and happiness while occasionally questioning our sanity. It satisfied the nosey part of my personality. That need to open the top of somebody's head and peer inside to see not only how their mind works but also to check how it compares to my own reasoning.
A short summary of the book, without giving too much away - the book opens with the death of Fynn's therapist and ends with her feeling more at ease with the concerns she sought therapy for in the first place.
I tend to read mystery/crime books where there is a clear goal or mystery to solve, that propels me through the book. This book has a beginning, middle and end but the distinctions are less clear (some might say, less formulaic). It is more of a "snapshot" of a few months, charting the progress of the central character's "journey." Her journey is one we all share; dealing with fears and insecurities, trying to make connections to create meaning and seeking love and happiness while occasionally questioning our sanity. It satisfied the nosey part of my personality. That need to open the top of somebody's head and peer inside to see not only how their mind works but also to check how it compares to my own reasoning.
April 19, 2015
“The Drowned Phoenician Sailor” by Lesley Hayes is a remarkable book and a real treat. Character driven and with focus on their development this is just my type of novel. The reader is allowed to get insight into the thoughts and background of the protagonists through the analytical and reflective narrative that provides substance and much food for thought.
A huge fan of novels that use psychology and / or spiritualist themes I was extremely happy to find both of these themes in this novel. We witness a few months in the life of Fynn/ Fiona during which she has contact with the dead, namely her sister and her psychologist, while she also meets a man and learns to loosen up a little. Partaking in her development has been a privilege, thanks to the sensitive and yet entertaining writing skills of the author. For me the most enjoyable parts were the many great discussions between the characters. It’s the sort of book to read with a pen in your hand to underline the many wonderful lines you wish to remember and write down later. Full of insight in human nature and psychology and full of warmth this is a treasure to cherish for me.
A huge fan of novels that use psychology and / or spiritualist themes I was extremely happy to find both of these themes in this novel. We witness a few months in the life of Fynn/ Fiona during which she has contact with the dead, namely her sister and her psychologist, while she also meets a man and learns to loosen up a little. Partaking in her development has been a privilege, thanks to the sensitive and yet entertaining writing skills of the author. For me the most enjoyable parts were the many great discussions between the characters. It’s the sort of book to read with a pen in your hand to underline the many wonderful lines you wish to remember and write down later. Full of insight in human nature and psychology and full of warmth this is a treasure to cherish for me.
February 28, 2015
This novel was a sheer delight from beginning to end. The main protagonist, Fynn, is a strong-willed, hard-nosed, unsentimental woman. A tough cookie. Living alone, except for her very demanding cat Morpheus, she cherishes her independence. Then a death and an encounter with an apparition triggers a series of events and encounters that takes her – and us – on a journey laced with all kinds of twists and turns.
The other reviews here adequately cover the elements within without giving away the plot. Suffice to say this is a beautifully written book. All the characters are believable and wonderfully observed. Lesley Hayes seems to have an uncanny knack – in true Shakespearean fashion – of unraveling human nature.
I heartily recommend The Drowned Phoenician Sailor. You won’t be disappointed.
November 6, 2016
An eloquent and articulate portrayal of being human. Lesley’s emphatic perceptiveness is outstanding, relating our fears, qualms, insecurities and scepticism perfectly. Her writing is beautiful and quaint, and often cheeky. The protagonist Fynn, insecure and insular, can be cynically honest at times and just as sympathetic to the mystical supernatural as any rational mind can be. The story deals with the mechanics of loss and loathing, understanding, discovery and the pain and pleasure of love. It highlights the marvels of coincidence and synchronicity, and recounts the intuitive observations of feline idiosyncrasy to a fine art. A worthy read for the psychological intrigued.
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