Shattered Direction

by Edward A. Dreyfus

After directing an award-winning documentary in college, Harry Moreland, an idealistic, sensitive, promising filmmaker with a social conscience, goes on a two-year odyssey ending in Hollywood with hopes of becoming a film director. He is seduced by money, fame, and the glitz of the porn industry. Like many of the wanna-be actresses in front of the lens, Harry finds his hopes and dreams shattered as he gradually becomes embedded in the high life of drugs, alcohol, and living in the fast lane. When his girlfriend overdoses and his brother is arrested for dealing drugs, he hits bottom and has to go through the slow and painful process of redemption, reclaiming his soul, his integrity, and his identity. He is confronted with the age-old choice between money and glitz or integrity and relationships.

ebook

Published May 1, 2016

About the author

Before turning to writing fiction, I was a practicing clinical psychologist for fifty-plus years. I have been privileged to enter the lives of countless people as their psychotherapist. Their lives and struggles revealed profound truths about the human condition. Many of the stories I heard in my practice have provided themes for my books. Often a common issue rather than a particular individual stimulated the stories.

Everyone has a story to be told. Usually, we get so caught up in living our lives that we fail to see the extraordinary embedded in the ordinary. We look at our life as just putting one foot in front of the other, trying the best we can to live our lives in a meaningful, productive way. For some of us, the task is merely to survive in the world in which we find ourselves. Sometimes it takes an outsider to tell the story.

As a psychologist, I have tried to help people make sense of their life experiences, come to terms with their inner demons, cope with tragedy, and find greater fulfillment. As a writer, I try to tell their story in a way that might help others find meaning, purpose, and fulfillment.

A recurrent theme in my writing is the exploration of the light and dark sides inherent in all of us. I hope to encourage people to embrace both sides, learn to integrate them, and thereby experience a greater sense of wholeness and fulfillment.

More than once, their stories resonated with my own life and helped me to gain clarity and perspective. I am profoundly grateful for the insights provided by those who trusted me with their stories and permitted me to join them on their journey of self-discovery.

I have been married to my wife, Barbara, for almost forty years, have three grown children, five grandchildren, and two pooches named Charlie and Benji. My hobbies include vegan cooking, photography, woodworking, and physical fitness. I am active in nonprofit agencies that serve children, youth, and families. All profits from the sales of my books go to these charities.

Find out more at http://www.edwarddreyfusbooks.com

Reviews

[Miriam Smith (A Mother’s Musings) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I won this book through the Goodreads Giveaways. On paper this would not be my normal typical book, however, once I started reading this I really got into it. Written by a proven psychotherapist - the story is about a sensitive, promising filmmaker who ends up embroiled in a life of drink drugs and pornography. Set in his psychotherapists office we see Harry's life from a small child living with a strict military father to his slide down into the sleazy side of filmmaking. Although the topic is pornography it is written without being too explicit and therefore is comfortable to read. This novel is well written by an obviously very intelligent author. I was intrigued to see how Harry's life panned out and thorough enjoyed it. Would recommend and would read more by Edward A. Dreyfus.

[Mike Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good read.

This book kept my interest. Well written with interesting characters that come to life. I'm eager to read more from this author.

[Catherine Milmine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Was a lucky winner on Goodreads. Really enjoyed this story and characters in the book. From the beginning to end. Reminded me alot of my upbringing by a Military father and the way he raised his family military syle, I could relate to the characters. Recommend this book, was a great read.