Debut Spotlight: Franziska Gänsler’s ‘Eternal Summer’ Explores Climate and Connection

‘Eternal Summer’ by Franziska Gänsler. Photo: Barnes & Noble

New Release: “Eternal Summer” by Franziska Gänsler

Available Tuesday, May 6, 2025 (Other Press)

This week brings an unsettling and mesmerizing work of climate fiction from debut author Franziska Gänsler. “Eternal Summer: A Novel” is set in a once-idyllic German spa town now devastated by climate change. Perfect for fans of Jenny Hval, Julia Armfield, and Olga Tokarczuk, this haunting novel explores themes of trust, abuse, and solidarity through the evolving relationship between two women.

When Iris inherits her grandfather’s hotel in Bad Heim, the town is still a bustling wellness retreat. But as climate change tightens its grip, summers stretch endlessly, scorching heat and forest fires fill the skies with ash and smoke, and guests become scarce. One day, a young mother and her small daughter arrive, seemingly out of nowhere. Iris senses something is off. Is the woman in need of help—or could she pose a threat?

Gänsler vividly conjures the suffocating atmosphere: the sting of ash on skin, the oppressive heat, and the ever-present scent of smoke. “Eternal Summer” is a powerful, immersive novel that captures the intersection of personal trauma and global catastrophe. It’s an intense and timely debut that lingers long after the last page.

About the Author

Franziska Gänsler was born in Augsburg, Germany in 1987. She studied art and English in Berlin, Vienna, and Augsburg. In 2020, she was shortlisted for the Blogbuster Prize and was a finalist at Berlin’s 28th Open Mike competition. Gänsler currently lives in Augsburg and Berlin. “Eternal Summer” is her first novel.

About the Translator

Imogen Taylor studied French and German at New College, Oxford, and the Humboldt University in Berlin. She has translated works by Sascha Arango, Dirk Kurbjuweit, and Melanie Raabe. In March 2016, she received the Goethe-Institut Award for New Translations.

Advance Praise for Franziska Gänsler (Eternal Summer):

“I loved this book. Exploring the unsettling tension between individual lives and the collective upheaval of the climate crisis, it questions what we owe one another. Its haunting is subtle, slow and flickering from page to page until it catches. The two women stayed with me for days afterward.”
—Sarah S. Grossman, author of “A Fire So Wild”

“Gänsler’s language is calm and unerring. Parallel to the fatal consequences of the climate crisis, she also narrates the story of women.”
—DER SPIEGEL

“A feminist climate-fiction novel that gets under the skin in many different ways.”
—BERLINER ZEITUNG

Leadership Lessons from a Military Commander: What Elyezer Shkedy’s Book Teaches Us About Success

‘Who the F*ck is Michael?!: An Israeli Air Force Chief’s Uncompromising Code for Achieving Greatness’ by Elyezer Shkedy. Photo: Barnes & Noble

The Power of Books on Personal and Business Success

Books on personal and business success offer more than just inspiration—they provide actionable insights, proven strategies, and lessons from top leaders across industries. These works condense decades of experience into digestible, practical advice that can help readers improve their mindset, boost productivity, enhance leadership skills, and sharpen decision-making.

Whether you’re launching a startup or pursuing personal growth, these books offer real-world relevance and motivation. Readers learn from the triumphs and setbacks of renowned entrepreneurs and executives, gaining perspectives that can accelerate their own journeys. Ultimately, these books act as mentors on the page, empowering individuals to achieve their goals with clarity and confidence.

Spotlight on Elyezer Shkedy and “Who the F*ck is Michael?!”

General (Ret.) Elyezer Shkedy served as the fifteenth commander of the Israeli Air Force, where he led numerous strategic operations—including the pivotal Operation Orchard airstrike on Syria’s nuclear reactor. After his military service, he became the CEO of El Al, Israel’s national airline, and currently leads over fifteen educational and social NGOs. As president of I Belong Israel, Shkedy is a prominent voice on leadership, tolerance, and personal values.

His bestselling debut book “Who the F*ck is Michael?!: An Israeli Air Force Chief’s Uncompromising Code for Achieving Greatness” has sold over 30,000 copies in its Hebrew edition and was the most-read book among Israeli military personnel in 2022. (CS Lewis Publicity, 2025)

A Leadership Book Like No Other

“Who the F*ck is Michael?!” is a compelling exploration of leadership, resilience, and personal excellence. Drawing from a career that spans elite military command and corporate leadership, Shkedy shares over 100 real-life stories and insights that stress the importance of hard work, accountability, and moral courage.

Originally published in Hebrew and now available in English, the book received the prestigious Golden Book Award. It stands as a powerful guide for anyone looking to lead with intention, discipline, and integrity.

‘Inheritance’ Unpacks Family Ties and Hidden Truths

Emily Moss Wilson’s new film ‘Inheritance.’ Courtesy photo, used with permission.

When it comes to films, dramas contain emotional depth, compelling characters, and exploration of the human experience. They often tackle complex themes such as love, loss, identity, and morality, allowing viewers to connect with the story on a personal level. This emotional resonance is a key reason for their enduring appeal. Whether based on true events or fictional narratives, dramas invite introspection and empathy, offering a mirror to society and the self. Their ability to evolve with cultural shifts while maintaining timeless emotional truths ensures their continued popularity across generations, making them a cornerstone of cinema around the world.

The new drama film Inheritance will be showing in select US theaters from May 6 through May 22 and will be available on digital and on demand on June 3. (One Tree Entertainment, 2025)

‘Inheritance’…The Past Never Dies

Directed by Emily Moss Wilson
Starring Austin Highsmith Garces (Scream TV Series, Criminal Minds, Dolphin Tale), Rachel Noll James, Wes Brown (True Blood, 90210, Hart of Dixie), Michelle Hurd (Star Trek: Picard, Blindspot Hawaii Five-0)

Estranged sisters Lucy and Paige reluctantly reunite to bury their father, only to find themselves drawn back into the tangled web of their painful past. As old wounds resurface, they discover that they’ve inherited far more than just money.

CINEMA SCREENING TIMES BELOW

LOS ANGELES, CA
May 6th @ 7p.m. – Laemmle Glendale – MORE INFO HERE
*Talkback with actors Michelle Hurd & Austin Highsmith Garces
May 8th @ 7p.m. – Laemmle Santa Monica – MORE INFO HERE
*Talkback with actors Michelle Hurd & Austin Highsmith Garces
May 9th – May 22nd – Laemmle Santa Monica (Various Times – TBA)

WASHINGTON STATE
May 9th – 22nd @ 6:30p.m. daily – Bainbridge Island Cinemas – TICKETS HERE
*Talkbacks on May 13th and 22nd with actor/writer Rachel Noll James and producer Sienna Beckman
May 9th – 15th @ 6p.m. daily – Historic Admiral in West Seattle – TICKETS HERE
May 21st @ 7p.m. – Kingston Firehouse Theater – TICKETS HERE
*Talkback with actor/writer Rachel Noll James and producer Sienna Beckman

NEW ORLEANS, LA
May 18th @ 3p.m. – The Broad Theater – TICKETS HERE
*Talkback with director Emily Moss Wilson, editor Misty Talley, producer Daniel Lewis

Inheritance still. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

What Psychoanalysis Really Feels Like: A Review of Joan Peters’ ‘Untangling’

‘Untangling: A Memoir of Psychoanalysis’ by Joan K. Peters. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Book Review: ‘Untangling: A Memoir of Psychoanalysis’ by Joan Peters
What It’s Really Like to Be in Psychoanalysis—From the Patient’s Chair

If you’ve ever wondered what actually happens during psychoanalysis—or what it feels like to unravel years of emotional knots on a therapist’s couch—Joan Peters‘ “Untangling: A Memoir of Psychoanalysis” offers a rare, intimate glimpse into that world.

Unlike most writing on psychoanalysis, which often comes from the perspective of clinicians, “Untangling” is told from the inside out. Peters chronicles her decades-long analytic journey with striking vulnerability, courage, and clarity. This journey consisted of two different analysts: Lane when she was 28 and Kristi when she was 67. While Lane was helpful, she remained impersonal and impartial. Kristi actually got to know her because she used relational psychoanalysis, a psychoanalytic approach that emphasizes the importance of the relationship between the therapist and patient in the therapeutic process. Peters brings readers into the room with her, detailing the subtle shifts, long silences, and emotionally charged breakthroughs that define the therapeutic process.

Highlights:
Chapter 7 – Schizoid – Peters admits to Lane that from ages 14 to 19, she had lived an alternate existence because when she was 14, she started hearing voices. These voices guided her every action.
Chapter 4 – Lane Explains Me to Me – Focuses on her family background, memories of her as a two year old seeing her mother preparing the morphine syringes for her dad who was dying of cancer. This explained her nightmares about syringes and being given injections with poisons. Two months after talking about this, her needle nightmares ended. That’s when Joan discovered the complicated issue of subconsciousness and how it affects our lives.

At its core, honesty is what makes this memoir so powerful. Peters doesn’t offer easy answers or dramatic resolutions—instead, she shows how transformation unfolds slowly, often painfully, through the act of being deeply seen and heard. It reveals how analysts’ methodology differ and how patients respond differently with age and life experience. Her writing is vivid and lyrical, making even the most abstract aspects of psychoanalysis feel grounded and human. “Sitting back in her chair, patient as a fisherman in a placid lake, she listened, questioned, interjected while I mostly avoided the story, as if its invisible tentacles might entangle (or strangle) me.”

Overall, “Untangling” is a courageous and necessary contribution to the literature on mental health. It demystifies a process often veiled in secrecy and offers an authentic voice to the patient experience. For readers curious about psychoanalysis—or the complexities of healing—this memoir is both enlightening and deeply moving.

“My question back in Vermont had loosened a scab; now the wound bled, unstoppable. She had offered me silence, and I had refused her gift. Now, at times, I felt I might drown in her words.”

*The author was contacted for an honest review of this book and received a copy. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Cinco de Mayo in San Antonio: Local Deals to Celebrate Flavor, Heritage, and Style

Anaqua Garden Bar is having $8 margaritas all day on Cinco de Mayo. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in San Antonio with Local Flavor and Festive Deals

Cinco de Mayo, celebrated on May 5th, commemorates Mexico’s victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. Though it’s a minor holiday in Mexico, it has become a vibrant celebration of Mexican culture in the United States. People mark the occasion with festive parades, mariachi music, folkloric dancing, and traditional foods like tacos and mole poblano. Cities like San Antonio host street fairs and cultural events, drawing crowds eager to experience the lively atmosphere. Cinco de Mayo appeals to many for its colorful energy, community spirit, and joyful embrace of Mexican heritage through food, music, and celebration.

With Cinco de Mayo falling on a Monday this year, local favorites Anaqua Garden Bar, La Panadería, and Twang are offering flavorful and festive ways to honor the traditions of Mexican culture. (Anaqua Garden Bar, La Panadería, Twang, 2025)

Sip and Savor at Anaqua Garden Bar
Located at the Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, Anaqua Garden Bar invites guests to relax in its lush garden oasis with $8 margaritas available all day. It’s an ideal setting to unwind and toast to the vibrant traditions behind this cultural holiday.

Tequila-Inspired Treats at La Panadería
Founded by brothers José and David Cáceres, La Panadería continues to blend traditional Mexican baking with innovative flavors. This Cinco de Mayo, the menu shines with tequila-infused offerings, including:

Tequila Butter Steak & Eggs
Tequila Almond Croissant
Tequila Tres Leches Croissant
Tequila French Toast
A variety of refreshing tequila-based cocktails

Bring the Flavor Home with Twang
Twang, a Latino-founded brand with nearly four decades of flavor expertise, uses Cinco de Mayo as a moment to celebrate cultural roots and family traditions. Known for products like Snack Salts, Beer Salts, Drink Rimmers, and their All-In-One Michelada Cocktail Mix, Twang’s flavor enhancers are made to elevate any drink or snack—perfect for at-home celebrations.

Together, these three local brands invite San Antonians to celebrate Cinco de Mayo with intention, joy, and a deep appreciation for Mexican heritage. Whether you’re clinking glasses at Anaqua, brunching on tequila delights at La Panadería, or adding a spicy twist to your drinks at home with Twang, make this May 5th a flavorful tribute to tradition.

Starmony Is Coming: Slumbering Sun’s Next Chapter in Sound

Slumbering Sun shares Midsommar Night’s Dream single from forthcoming sophomore album *Starmony*. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Slumbering Sun is set to rise once more with their much-anticipated new album, Starmony—a sonic voyage that promises to blend celestial ambiance with earth-shaking heaviness. As the band teases fragments of what’s to come, early listeners are already whispering about a bold evolution in their sound. Here’s what I know so far:

Austin band Slumbering Sun shares “Midsommar Night’s Dream,” a new single from their forthcoming sophomore album Starmony. Starmony will be available on limited edition LP and digital on May 6, 2025. Fans can pre-order HERE. (US/THEM Group, 2025)

Slumbering Sun is a powerful new melodic doom entity formed by members of underground mainstays Temptress, Destroyer of Light, and Monte Luna. The resulting sound explores broader melodies and sonics than their other bands, inspired as much by Celtic folk standards as by doom, grunge and shoegaze.

Slumbering Sun makes music for crazy romantics. Keegan Kjeldsen, James Clarke, Kelsey Wilson, Garth Condit, and Kelly “Penny” Turner joined forces in 2022 in order to weave a dreamy kind of doom that would incorporate shoegaze, grunge, and prog. All were friends in the Texas metal scene, assembled from bands in Austin and Dallas, who sought to elevate the love and camaraderie they’d found over the years into an artistic vision.

After releasing their debut, The Ever-Living Fire (2023, #20 debut on Doom Charts), Slumbering Sun played their first show at Stoner Jam during SXSW, embarked on a series of regional tours, and capped off the year with an appearance at Ripple Fest. The band spent all of 2024 making their second effort, Starmony, in between touring the Midwest, and releasing their single “Out of the Blue & Into the Void” — a brilliant mashup of Neil Young’s and Black Sabbath’s classic tracks. With no plans to slow down, the band intends to make more metalheads than ever pound their fists and cry about their exes.

Band members:
James Clarke (Vocals) – of Monte Luna
Keegan Kjeldsen (Guitar) – of Destroyer of Light
Kelsey Wilson (Guitar) – of Temptress
Garth Condit (Bass) – of Monte Luna, Scorpion Child
Penny Turner (Drums) – of Destroyer of Light

SLUMBERING SUN LIVE 2025:
05/02 Austin, TX – Valhalla (album release show)
06/04 El Paso, TX – Rosewood
06/06 Tempe, AZ – Yucca Tap Room
06/07 Las Vegas, NV – Dive Bar
06/08 Palmdale, CA – Transplants Brewing
06/10 San Francisco, CA – Bottom of The Hill
06/12 Eugene, OR – Sparrow & Serpent
06/13 Portland, OR – High Water Mark – Soundcastle Festival
06/14 Olympia, WA – McCoy’s
06/15 Bellingham, WA – Shakedown
06/17 Moscow, ID – Mikey’s
06/18 Boise, ID – Neurolux
06/19 Salt Lake City, UT – Aces High
06/20 Denver, CO – Squire
06/21 Colorado Springs, CO – What’s Left Records
06/22 Wichita, KS – Kirby’s Beer Store
07/11 Asheville, NC – Doomed and Stoned Festival

Starmony tracklist:

01. Together Forever

02. Keep it Secret

03. Midsommar Night’s Dream

04. The Solar Bear

05. Danse Macabre

06. The Tower

07. Wanderlust

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hours minutes seconds

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Starmony release date

Trippy, melodic doom metal. From the moment you hit play, ‘Liminal Bridges’ feels like a transitional track meant to guide you along a wispy, winding trail in a slightly foggy forest while on a quest.” — Metal Sucks

“An ice-cold blend of 90s alternative, doom, and prog that will quench your thirst for captivating melodies, thundering percussion, and grungy riffs! They’ve created an epic mash-up of classic doom and added the soaring vocals and towering instrumentation that took us on the sonic journey from Sabbath to Maiden to Soundgarden.” — CvltNation

“Nothing short of fantastic, and should be blasted at full volume.” — Metal Injection

“Possibly the best doom album I’ve heard this year… Front to back it’s an insanely well done work, with remarkably clear vision.” — Invisible Oranges

Celebrating Local: Food, Music, and Fun at Pullman Market’s First Birthday Bash

Pullman Market celebrates one year with a birthday party block party this Saturday May 3. Photo: Robert J. Lerma, used with permission.

Pullman Market, the 53,000-square-foot culinary hub at Pearl in San Antonio, will celebrate its one-year anniversary with a family-friendly block party on Saturday, May 3, from 1p.m. – 5p.m. The free event highlights the market’s mission of bringing local land to local hands with food from award-winning local restaurants, live music, family activities from DoSeum, and more. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the San Antonio Food Bank. (Pullman Market, 2025)

The celebration will feature dishes for sale from numerous local restaurants, including The Jerk Shack, Freight Fried Chicken, Ladino, Leche de Tigre, Mixtli, Pharm Table, Southerleigh, Supper and Pullman Market’s own Mezquite.

Pullman Market in the Pearl District, created by the Emmer & Rye Hospitality Group, opened on April 23, 2024. In its first year, it has become a community culinary hub featuring a specialty grocer, five quick-service eateries and four full-service restaurants – Fife & Farro, Mezquite, Isidore and Nicosi. Committed to sustainability and supporting local producers, Pullman Market sources all products within 150 miles of San Antonio, fostering an ecosystem that connects farmers, chefs and consumers.

Since opening, Pullman Market has been named to Progressive Grocer’s “Outstanding Independents” list for its commitment to local connections, elevated grocery standards and integration of chef-driven concepts. Among its accolades, Nicosi, the on-site restaurant featuring a dessert tasting menu experience, received a Michelin recommendation in Texas’ inaugural Michelin Guide, and Chef Tavel Bristol-Joseph was named “Pastry Chef of the Year” by Esquire in late 2024.

Pullman Market’s First Birthday Party is free to attend, with RSVPs encouraged via Eventbrite.

Pullman Market on Karnes Patio
221 Newell Ave
San Antonio, TX 78215

Pullman Market

Jack and Laurie Return: Why ‘Night Shift’ Is a Must-Read for Medical Thriller Fans

‘Night Shift’ is the thrilling medical thriller by the master of the genre Robin Cook. Photo: Barnes & Noble.

Doctor and author Robin Cook is widely credited with introducing the word ‘medical’ to the thriller genre, and decades after the publication of his 1977 breakthrough novel, “Coma,” he continues to dominate the category he created. Cook has successfully combined medical fact with fiction to produce thirty-nine international bestsellers, including “Outbreak,” “Terminal,” “Contagion,” and “Chromosome 6.” “Night Shift” is the 13^th book in the Jack Stapleton and Laurie Montgomery series. (Barnes & Noble, 2025)

“Night Shift” – In this exhilarating new medical thriller, fan favorites Jack and Laurie are lured into the dark underbelly of hospital dangers when an internist dies mysteriously.

Colleagues-turned-spouses Dr. Laurie Montgomery and Dr. Jack Stapleton already have their hands full due to demanding forensic pathology work and family pressures. The last thing they need is the sudden death of a colleague. When Laurie’s apparently vital and healthy longtime friend Dr. Sue Passero dies mysteriously in the hospital parking garage, an autopsy is required. It falls uncomfortably under Laurie’s purview as the chief medical examiner and when Laurie asks Jack to take special care with the case, he can hardly refuse.

With his curiosity sparked by an inconclusive autopsy, Jack is compelled to resolve the case at hand, and sets out to investigate on-site at Manhattan Memorial Hospital, even though it means defying the Office of Chief Medical Examiner’s rules. What started out as an inquiry into Sue’s tragic passing soon turns into a deadly and dangerous chess game between Jack and the clever and deranged killer, who might just administer another lethal blow if Jack isn’t careful.

Review:

Robin Cook’s “Night Shift” is a gripping return to the adrenaline-charged world of medical suspense, where danger is around every corner. In this latest installment, Cook reunites readers with beloved characters Dr. Jack Stapleton and Dr. Laurie Montgomery, a dynamic duo whose chemistry and sharp instincts have made them staples of the genre.

When Dr. Sue Passero dies of an apparent heart attack in her car after a late-night shift, Jack and Laurie are drawn into a murky investigation that reveals alarming vulnerabilities surrounding the the people entrusted to save lives. As Jack digs deeper, he uncovers a chilling conspiracy that blurs the lines between healthcare and crime.

Cook masterfully blends cutting-edge medical details with the fast-paced narrative of a crime thriller, delivering a story that feels urgent and unsettlingly plausible because these cases have occurred in real life. “Night Shift” pulses with tension, balancing scenes of clinical precision with emotional stakes that hit close to home. Longtime fans will appreciate the return of familiar characters, while new readers will find an accessible entry point into Cook’s world.

One way to get readers inside the killer’s mind is by revealing his/her identity halfway through the book. Some readers are put off by this, but I find it fascinating because we get a peek into the killer’s reasonings and plannings and in this case, when the killer goes after Jack, it adds layers to the suspense.For this book, I checked out the audiobook on the Libby app, so that made the action even more exciting.

Overall, “Night Shift” is a gripping page-turner and confirms Robin Cook’s place as a master of the medical thriller. It explores the themes of good vs evil, human nature, death, and justice. Recommended for fans of medical thrillers, it’s a compelling reminder that in medicine, not all dangers are biological.

Healing Through Sound: Dr. Stephen Porges’ Revolutionary Safe and Sound Protocol

‘Safe and Sound: A Polyvagal Approach for Connection, Change, and Healing’ is the transformative new book by Dr. Stephen Porges. Photo: Barnes & Noble

Mental health awareness is crucial in today’s fast-paced world, where stress, anxiety, and depression are increasingly common. Recognizing the importance of mental well-being helps reduce stigma and encourages people to seek help. Various therapy methods are available, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which focuses on changing negative thought patterns; dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), used for emotional regulation; and art therapy, which provides creative outlets for expression. Mindfulness-based therapies and medication management also play vital roles. Addressing mental health is essential now more than ever, as it promotes resilience, healthier relationships, and improved quality of life in an increasingly complex society.

In today’s book news, “Safe and Sound” is the new book by Dr. Stephen Porges where he addresses Safe and Sound Protocol as another means of therapy.

Safe and Sound Protocol is a groundbreaking therapy based on the Polyvagal Theory developed by Dr. Stephen Porges. Now, together with researcher Karen Onderko, they have written “Safe and Sound: A Polyvagal Approach for Connection, Change and Healing.” (Sounds True, 2025)

In this new book,Porges and Onderko offer a glimpse into this innovative approach, highlighting not only the origin of SSP and its best practices, but also real-life stories of transformation and healing. SSP is backed by neuroscience and this technique aids in stress reduction and mental wellness. It’s gaining traction for its effectiveness in treating various mental health conditions.

Stephen W. Porges, PhD, is author of “The Polyvagal Theory” and creator of the Safe and Sound Protocol. He’s a professor of psychiatry at the University of North Carolina and Distinguished University Scientist at Indiana University, where he’s founding director of the Traumatic Stress Research Consortium.

Karen Onderko, a cofounder of Polyvagal Institute, helped bring the Safe and Sound Protocol from the research lab to clinicians, who then enabled people to experience the benefits of improved nervous system regulation.

From Polyvagal Theory pioneer Dr. Stephen Porges comes a new resource sharing the origin and best practices of his groundbreaking new protocol, and highlighting real-life stories of transformation and healing.

“Safe and Sound” – We all want to live and share our truth, but when we don’t feel safe, it can be impossible to fully express or even know who we really are. The nervous system impacts daily well-being, to our benefit or detriment. Understanding how may be key to truly knowing yourself and better supporting the challenges holding you back.

The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) is a groundbreaking therapy based in Polyvagal Theory, which looks at the role the autonomic nervous system and vagus nerve play in regulating health and behavior. SSP involves listening to music that’s been filtered to prioritize frequencies of human speech, providing auditory input that enables the nervous system to reset to its homeostatic state.

Porges and Onderko offer a glimpse into this innovative approach, highlighting not only the origin of SSP and its best practices but also real-life stories of transformation. They showcase clinical evidence demonstrating SSP’s impact on emotional dysregulation, social interaction difficulty, and auditory sensitivity, providing a comprehensive understanding of its therapeutic potential.

Some features and conditions addressed include:

• Depression
• Perfectionism
• Addiction
• Suicidal ideation
• COVID recovery
• Navigating gender identity
• Living with Parkinson’s disease
• Hypermobility
• Autism
• ADHD
• Dyslexia

Whether patient, family member, friend, or clinician, you’ll find a deeper understanding of the nervous system and tools for a more resilient experience. Illustrating the incredible range of application and how autonomic regulation can lead to significant improvements—from stress and anxiety to grief and trauma—”Safe and Sound” demonstrates how SSP can promote a state of safety and calm, facilitating the foundation for long-awaited healing.

Inside the Analyst’s Chair: Joan Peters’ Raw and Riveting Journey in ‘Untangling’

‘Untangling: A Memoir of Psychoanalysis’ is the new book by Joan K. Peters. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Psychoanalysis, a deep exploration of the unconscious mind, offers a powerful path toward mental health and self-awareness. Rooted in the belief that unspoken thoughts and early experiences shape our behaviors, it invites individuals to uncover, confront, and integrate hidden parts of themselves. In a time when mental health is gaining long-overdue attention, talking openly about therapy and inner struggles is vital. It reduces stigma, encourages others to seek help, and reminds us that healing often begins with honest conversation. Embracing psychoanalysis and mental wellness isn’t just personal—it’s a collective step toward a more compassionate, self-aware society.

The new memoir “Untangling: A Memoir of Psychoanalysis” dares to tell the patient’s side of psychoanalysis. It’s available now wherever books are sold.

Joan K. Peters was born in New York City and got her Ph. D in comparative literature from The University of Chicago. She’s published a novel and two books about women and work and is a professor emeritus of literature and writing at California State University at Channel Islands. She lives in Ojai with her husband, her dogs, and her chickens. In her much-anticipated new book “Untangling: A Memoir of Psychoanalysis,” she focuses on her experience in psychoanalysis at two different points in her life, comparing two different theoretical and technical analytic views, from the vantage point of her experience as a patient. (CS Lewis Publicity, 2025)

“Untangling: A Memoir of Psychoanalysis” – With the drama of a novel it tells the story of a turbulent and transformative psychoanalysis in this first ever in-depth patient’s account. Joan K. Peters’ story lays bare the inner workings of this complex treatment, which takes place behind closed doors, is rarely spoken about, and is largely unknown outside of professional circles.

A polished, poetic, and often funny writer, her willingness to expose her own demons brings psychoanalysis to life, from the intense strife to the fierce love that can develop between patient and analyst. Joan’s first analyst, Lane, helped Joan alleviate tormenting and recurring nightmares and to find herself by discovering her family’s secret past. Her second analyst, Kristi, guided her through the frightening depths of that past to a yearned-for freedom.

In another first, Kristi writes an afterword about the challenge of analyzing Peters. Unique in its reach, “Untangling”reveals the mysteries that lurk beneath the surface of our psyches.

Psychoanalysis is full of mysteries — it taps into the subconscious more than any other form of therapy and sets up a unique relationship between analyst and patient. No one really knows exactly how or why it works, just that it does. But one patient, in candidly revealing her own journey, invites readers into that very private patient experience as she grapples with hidden and haunting demons.

Whether due to taboo, fear, shame, or reluctance, very few patients have shared their journey of psychoanalysis with others, let alone written about the experience. Too many people are unaware of the transformative powers that this penetrating, multi-layered therapy has.

In her unique memoir, written in the narrative style of Mary Karr, the author recounts her two analyses — one when she is in her twenties and another in her sixties — that form one continuous story of immense discovery and healing. She dramatizes firsthand accounts of how she and her two very different analysts unlocked the traumas, losses and terrors of her past – enabling her to confront and understand them, and finally feel free to fully enjoy her life.

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