Phoenix Reborn

Rafael A. Marti
AuthorHouse (2010)
ISBN 9781452054537
Reviewed by Richard R. Blake for Reader Views (09/10)

 

The mythical bird, the phoenix, symbolizes rebirth. “Phoenix Reborn” by Rafael A. Marti is a fictional account of Nathan Christopher Styles, his battle for survival, and a new awakening.

Nathan Christopher Styles, a former elite operative with the U.S. Army Special Forces, suddenly finds himself in a new and unexpected survival mode. A failed marriage, a medical discharge from the Army, and the death of his father, all within a two-year period, leave Nathan devastated, alone, unemployed, and homeless.

Plagued with a history of paranoid-schizophrenia, Nathan struggles to put his life back together. Confused and unable to differentiate between reality and paranoia Nathan becomes suspicious of everyone, including his best friend and benefactor. He is edgy with bizarre ideas, altered perceptions and becomes highly dependent on his meds, cigarettes, and alcohol.

Nathan Christopher is convinced there is a plot to have him killed. A series of psychiatric consultations, new prescriptions, and therapy offer little help as he confronts his adversaries, real or imagined.

“Phoenix Reborn” by Rafael A. Marti if a fast-moving story of espionage, suspense, and danger. Marti brilliantly weaves the symptoms of schizophrenia into a fast-moving action plot. Nathan Christopher is often left unable to think clearly, to mange his emotions, to make rational decisions, and relate to others. Assassination attempts on his life and the murder of those around him become a blur during his loss of reality.

The book contains material published earlier as a novelette - “From the Ashes.”  Marti has expanded the account to give additional background information while adding elements of drama, suspense, romance, and intrigue to a unified plot. Additional editing would augment the flow of Marti’s writing style. However, the thrust of his plot is strong.

Rafael Marti has a creative imagination and is a gifted storyteller. Six years service in the U. S. Army and a career in medical and security assistance give Marti important insight into the theme of “Phoenix Reborn.” Rafael’s personal background as a medicated paranoid-schizophrenic with an anxiety disorder adds an amazing depth of understanding and credibility to his writing.

“Phoenix Reborn” is unforgettable, leaving the reader with a lasting feeling of hope and promise.

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