This is the third book in the Fractured Soul Series which introduces the person behind Ian Anderson of the previous books. New Characters are introduced some not desirable, others with the best of intentions, but still with their own agenda.
A person arrives at a hotel in a dilapidated Volvo estate car. The hotel's architecture is a mix of colonial design and modern construction. A woman in a long black coat leaves the hotel and boards a bus. The observer in the car, after watching the bus leave, exits the vehicle. A young boy named Charlie observes the scene from a window and discusses the newcomer with his mother. The man enters the hotel and approaches the reception desk where a woman named Mandy greets him.
Tom, a child with a tumultuous relationship with his mother, is often subjected to her verbal abuse. His mother's harsh words, such as "an attention-seeking little brat" and "get up, you lazy shit," have left deep emotional scars. Tom struggles with a mental illness that was initially misdiagnosed as a Hyperkinetic Reaction of Childhood, leading to further isolation and bullying. The correct diagnosis of Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) was only made in 1980. Tom's father, Hugh Shaw, finds it difficult to handle Tom's behaviour, which is exacerbated by his insecurities as a father. The family's struggles continue to unfold.
Tom's relationship with his mother, Coria, is described as tumultuous. Coria often subjects Tom to verbal abuse, using harsh words such as "an attention-seeking little brat" and "get up, you lazy shit." These words have left deep emotional scars on Tom and have significantly impacted his self-esteem.
Coria's lack of understanding and empathy towards Tom's mental health struggles further strains their relationship. When Dr. Smyth, a psychiatrist, identifies that Tom might have multiple personalities, Coria forbids Tom from seeing her again. She believes that Dr. Smyth has influenced Tom to lie to her and declares that she doesn't trust the psychiatrist. Despite Tom's protests that Dr. Smyth is helping him, Coria remains firm in her decision.
This complex relationship with his mother contributes to Tom's emotional turmoil and his struggles with mental illness. It also highlights the importance of understanding and empathy in dealing with mental health issues within a family setting.
Tom's life and how it is linked to Ian Anderson and others is revealed. We find Tom and Ian's