Comfort for the Afflicted

Medically retired clinical psychologist, William P. Hyneezitzs exhibits no discernable signs of having survived an astonishing life. But make no mistake, Dr. Hyneezitzs yokes a bewitching tale on his soft shoulders. The doctor's wife, BellaRae-a semi-retired psychiatrist, seems to be the only person who can keep William focused enough to stay on track. Unfortunately, he holds fast, or can't let go of a terribly disabling addiction. William obsessively wallows in the curiously strange and horribly hideous things he has observed and experienced. His self-afflicted torments suffer him an aggrandized state of martyr heroism. At least in his own mind.

William recklessly slips in and out of the pains and pleasures of his past. While the doctor knows better than to romanticize the nasty cruelties he has witnessed as a professional, it's BellaRae who is the steel that keeps this skyscraper sturdy. Not only does he risk developing into the monster he fears most, but he could easily lose his loose grip on reality and become a patient himself. One paramount lesson Dr. Hyneezitzs humbly learns, is even the slightest nuance of harm caused toward another can, and will, derange and mock the life of the offender.

Also included are two short stories: Lost at the Bar: Confessions of the Drunk and Stupid; and BellaRae: Quiet Please, Psychedelic Session in Progress.

TRIGGER WARNINGS: This book contains graphic violence, sexual content, inappropriate language, explicit drug usage, and lots of fun. Reader discretion is advised.

REVIEW

This is an interesting story of the mental health struggles of a 'doctor of minds' himself. I love the descriptive way the writer tells the story. He paints clear pictures with his words. The doctor has a beautiful life with a good marriage and great kids. However, he lives between his reality and the traumatic reality of his patients. His relives, in his mind, his patients' difficult life experiences time and time again. He is compassionate and fully involved in their stories. The medical profession discourages emotional involvement with patients, but our doctor here is unable to adhere to this. It is a story that speaks to the humanity in all of us. Who 'doctors' the doctors? This book cannot be read half-heartedly. It will tug at your heart and soul. A great read.

--Prof. Rose