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Kill Daddy: Kill Daddy: Volume 1 (Get A Life) by mr Gerald Freeman
kill daddy is my debut book, and part of a series, which I call Life.The story takes place in East Africa, where Gerry has gone to escape the demons from his past, and find something inspirational to do with his life. Escaping England was easy, but escaping his past was not. It is an emotional journey as well as a physical one. He is damaged goods, the product of abuse, and he feels like a pariah on society. However, in Africa, Gerry finds love, friendship, and even security among the poorest people in the world, who open their hearts and welcome him into their families as one of their own. He experiences a roller-coaster ride of adventures, both amazing and awful, and he finds out what life is really like, living in the remote villages of Kenya and Uganda. Will Africa be enough to help him regain his sense of self-worth, or will his abusers win in the end?
- GenresNonfiction
Paperback
First published October 8, 2013
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
March 25, 2014
There’s trauma in every one’s life, it defines who we are as people, it shapes who we will become and how we react to every situation presented to us – for some that trauma is relatively minor (like an across state-line move in the middle of your formative school years) or major (like child abuse, and neglect) and in the end-it’s all a matter of how you react to those minor and major traumas that will define you as a person. Having never personally had any major life trauma, some minor traumas of bullying in school, I cannot relate to those who have suffered major traumas on any level, I can be sympathetic, but not empathetic. Luckily I came from a solid foundation with loving-supportive parents who told me to ignore the bully’s and they will eventually go away – to which they did leave me be, we never become best buds, but I got left alone – and sink back into their holes. Unlike those unlucky ones who suffer major traumas that require years of therapy and healing I was able to move on easily once I graduated high school.
For Gerry Freeman the trauma of being viewed as a devil child who is just plain evil was formative to the person he became as a young adult. He separated himself from all relationships before they become semi-permanent because he learned early on that those relationships can become toxic and abusive should those people learn his true identity – or at least the identity he was told all of his life he had. So instead of forming bonding relationships with people, he instead chose to self-medicate with alcohol and drugs bonding himself to the power of those vs. the people around him who might become close. In order to try and overcome this constant push and pull process he decides to immerse himself in a culture otherwise unknown and mysterious to the world as a whole, on a whim he decides to travel to Africa in hopes of healing himself.
I found I had a push and pull relationship with this novel simply because from one side I could see where Gerry aka Freeman was coming from, however, I found it hard to get into the book. The story line read like a travel brochure at first and then as the memoir it is…honestly while I enjoyed reading about the interior of Africa with the simplicity of the lives of the people Gerry interacted with and the gorgeous realm of the world he inhabited, I could not help but wonder how the travels connected to his separating and healing himself from his past. I found the ending to be abrupt and left me wondering what came of Gerry, did he heal? Was he able to move forward with his life and let go of his past?
Four out of Five Stars for Kill Daddy
**I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review**
For Gerry Freeman the trauma of being viewed as a devil child who is just plain evil was formative to the person he became as a young adult. He separated himself from all relationships before they become semi-permanent because he learned early on that those relationships can become toxic and abusive should those people learn his true identity – or at least the identity he was told all of his life he had. So instead of forming bonding relationships with people, he instead chose to self-medicate with alcohol and drugs bonding himself to the power of those vs. the people around him who might become close. In order to try and overcome this constant push and pull process he decides to immerse himself in a culture otherwise unknown and mysterious to the world as a whole, on a whim he decides to travel to Africa in hopes of healing himself.
I found I had a push and pull relationship with this novel simply because from one side I could see where Gerry aka Freeman was coming from, however, I found it hard to get into the book. The story line read like a travel brochure at first and then as the memoir it is…honestly while I enjoyed reading about the interior of Africa with the simplicity of the lives of the people Gerry interacted with and the gorgeous realm of the world he inhabited, I could not help but wonder how the travels connected to his separating and healing himself from his past. I found the ending to be abrupt and left me wondering what came of Gerry, did he heal? Was he able to move forward with his life and let go of his past?
Four out of Five Stars for Kill Daddy
**I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review**
December 16, 2013
What to say about this book! First of all, it was nothing like I expected it to be. The main character had family issues to begin with. He grew up ignored or abused by his family. So he decides to go to Africa. The bulk of the book is about his time in Africa. He travelled about and stayed with families that he would meet. They accepted him into their family and eventually, he accepted them in the same way.
It was ultimately a book about healing, but was so subtle that it seemed more about life in small African villages until he realized that he had been healed.
It was OK. I did enjoy many parts of it. I think it all goes back to expectations. Since it is not what I expected, I have trouble loving it.
It was ultimately a book about healing, but was so subtle that it seemed more about life in small African villages until he realized that he had been healed.
It was OK. I did enjoy many parts of it. I think it all goes back to expectations. Since it is not what I expected, I have trouble loving it.
July 7, 2014
Review also on www.jolasbookshelf.wordpress.com.
'Kill Daddy' is a story about a man with an abusive childhood, who tries to find a way to forget and heal. I deeply enjoyed the vivid descriptions of Africa, how the people there live. Gerry's struggles moved something in me and I wanted for him to fins some sort of happiness. It's not a book for everyone, but it deserves checking out.
Thanks to Gerald Freeman for sending me an ebook in exchange for an honest review.
'Kill Daddy' is a story about a man with an abusive childhood, who tries to find a way to forget and heal. I deeply enjoyed the vivid descriptions of Africa, how the people there live. Gerry's struggles moved something in me and I wanted for him to fins some sort of happiness. It's not a book for everyone, but it deserves checking out.
Thanks to Gerald Freeman for sending me an ebook in exchange for an honest review.
May 6, 2014
Kill Daddy: Gerald Freeman
Within the world there are many who suffer great burdens, abuse, fears and have to decide whether they can live within their minds, create their own fantasies or leave the past behind and create a new future. Abuse of any kind will leave the victim both physically and mentally scared if both are inflicted upon him. As the pain from the past can become part of both the present and the future your life might take force you to regress, hide behind your fears, not allow you to forge ahead and prevent you from healing. Like a suitcase that is packed to the hilt and is overflowing with excess clothes, lives often overflow with too many sorrows, events and struggles that cause many suitcases and glasses filled with any liquid to overflow or flood. How can someone who has been beaten, insulted, abused and shunned feel worthy of just being alive? Kill Daddy brings to light the story of Gerald Freeman whose pain is felt as each blow is inflicted by this father, each insult is hurled as if it is a javelin throwing his disc, and his struggle to leave the past behind and find some hope and place in the future.
Gerald makes a conscientious discussion to leave the world he’s known for so long and lives in a desolate, remote and poor village in East Africa. Finding his way to many of these villages, living in poverty yet finding the companionship of friends that protect him from the first minute he steps off the plane, can he ever feel save? Can he ever smile again? How do you forgive what someone that is supposed to nurture and care for you did? When do you stop running and stand still? Do you, as he did, take drugs to lesson the pain and send you to what you might consider a better place? What about his friends that really cared for him? Would you kill the father that caused you all this pain? Enter the buses, meet the people and hear his voice as he travels throughout Africa hoping to find out just who Gerald really is.
Close your eyes and picture the villages, see the animals, understand the poverty of Uganda and Kenya. Scratches your arms as the mosquitoes bite, malaria takes hold of your body, guns go off, robberies and learn what many African’s endure and live through daily. What would make someone feel as if he’s a devil child? Why would someone want to be alone and push aside people and not develop any real relationships? When drugs and alcohol becomes your best friend and the people that you meet and are around you want to help you don’t let them? Why?
When reading this compelling novel you will enter East Africa and you will learn about the people, take the many trips to the remote villages and feel as if you are experiencing it along with Gerry. A father who despised him and a life that was unbearable the author shares his life from Portugal and then to Nairobi in Eastern Africa.
As the author assimilates himself within the many different villages he decides to remain in one with a family that is loving, giving and makes him feel safe. Differences in culture and customs do not get in the way as Gerry begins to realize that all people just might be the same but live in different places. Developing a sense of calm and peace takes time but when things get stressful he hides behind the alcohol, forgets his present and sometimes regresses into the past. But, something happens and he begins to realize that he needs to be kinder to people, develop more friendships and allow himself to share and trust. Living with people who have so little yet give so much teaches him many lessons. Waiting for a bus and seeing his friend Becky who came to visit him, betrayed his friendship he knew that trust was part of living as he states but can he ever forgive?
With his two new closest friends Kib and Ote the author finds himself pulled into the culture, the life and the way of living in Kilifi and many other places. When someone close to the family he’s staying with dies he learns about their burial customs and realizes that he needs to respect their ways. From Nairobi, which he did not like, the matatu or bus to the people who love and live in Kilifi the author immerses readers deep inside the culture of these Africans, learns about why women use sex as a means to get money. Like the barter system in some ways thinking white men are rich and knowing that sex would mean getting a meal. As payment it is expected that the male take the woman out for breakfast. When Gerry does not he soon learns why Chantel is angry and has to develop the mind-set of these people.
Can he ever forgive and let go of his past? Will he forgive his father, mother and stepfather for what they did to him? Kenya proved dangerous and Uganda quite different as the author witnesses some horrific scenes. At times he questions himself as he does in Kenya reviewing his life before, remembering the horrors when he was in Ethiopia, the rape and the dead woman and what happened when he was with his friend Simon. Learning just how some wanted the best for the people and others wanted to profit, Gerry learns many hard and fast lessons. But, the most compelling one would be when he realizes that he is not evil, his parents feelings about him were wrong and his life did not need to be spent dwelling on the past. As you read Chapter 13 you will learn more. Hoping to create his own business in Africa wanted to do his artwork and establish himself little did he know that someone he briefly met with change his life even before he arrives back home? Meet the families he stayed with hear the voices of the children and listen as they each show him the love that his own family did not. Finding himself in one specific village the Mayor wanted to meet him and got him to agree to teach the children English. Dalila made him feel like one of her children and the rest of his journey you need to experience for yourself as Gerry finally learns the true meaning of family, caring and much more. Find out what happens on Christmas Day. Learn about the promises he makes the family that took him in. Hear the guns go off. See the victims of violence and experience his last moments before making his journey to find his friend. Where is he now? What happens that would shake anyone to the core? Does he still want to Kill Daddy? You decide when your read this outstanding memoir of a young man who ran away to escape his best, himself and just might have found who he really is. Like a sponge that is filled to the brim with water and you slowly squeezes the water out until there is nothing left. What happens to Gerry just might leave all the water in the sponge making him whole, strong and never having to worry about anyone squeezing it out leaving nothing inside? Told in the first person narrative by the author himself take the journey from start to finish and learn about the many villages in Africa, appreciate the culture, make sure you have your malaria pills and meet the amazing people that helped Gerry become stronger and rid himself of his insecurities and strengthen his future.
Fran Lewis: Reviewer
Within the world there are many who suffer great burdens, abuse, fears and have to decide whether they can live within their minds, create their own fantasies or leave the past behind and create a new future. Abuse of any kind will leave the victim both physically and mentally scared if both are inflicted upon him. As the pain from the past can become part of both the present and the future your life might take force you to regress, hide behind your fears, not allow you to forge ahead and prevent you from healing. Like a suitcase that is packed to the hilt and is overflowing with excess clothes, lives often overflow with too many sorrows, events and struggles that cause many suitcases and glasses filled with any liquid to overflow or flood. How can someone who has been beaten, insulted, abused and shunned feel worthy of just being alive? Kill Daddy brings to light the story of Gerald Freeman whose pain is felt as each blow is inflicted by this father, each insult is hurled as if it is a javelin throwing his disc, and his struggle to leave the past behind and find some hope and place in the future.
Gerald makes a conscientious discussion to leave the world he’s known for so long and lives in a desolate, remote and poor village in East Africa. Finding his way to many of these villages, living in poverty yet finding the companionship of friends that protect him from the first minute he steps off the plane, can he ever feel save? Can he ever smile again? How do you forgive what someone that is supposed to nurture and care for you did? When do you stop running and stand still? Do you, as he did, take drugs to lesson the pain and send you to what you might consider a better place? What about his friends that really cared for him? Would you kill the father that caused you all this pain? Enter the buses, meet the people and hear his voice as he travels throughout Africa hoping to find out just who Gerald really is.
Close your eyes and picture the villages, see the animals, understand the poverty of Uganda and Kenya. Scratches your arms as the mosquitoes bite, malaria takes hold of your body, guns go off, robberies and learn what many African’s endure and live through daily. What would make someone feel as if he’s a devil child? Why would someone want to be alone and push aside people and not develop any real relationships? When drugs and alcohol becomes your best friend and the people that you meet and are around you want to help you don’t let them? Why?
When reading this compelling novel you will enter East Africa and you will learn about the people, take the many trips to the remote villages and feel as if you are experiencing it along with Gerry. A father who despised him and a life that was unbearable the author shares his life from Portugal and then to Nairobi in Eastern Africa.
As the author assimilates himself within the many different villages he decides to remain in one with a family that is loving, giving and makes him feel safe. Differences in culture and customs do not get in the way as Gerry begins to realize that all people just might be the same but live in different places. Developing a sense of calm and peace takes time but when things get stressful he hides behind the alcohol, forgets his present and sometimes regresses into the past. But, something happens and he begins to realize that he needs to be kinder to people, develop more friendships and allow himself to share and trust. Living with people who have so little yet give so much teaches him many lessons. Waiting for a bus and seeing his friend Becky who came to visit him, betrayed his friendship he knew that trust was part of living as he states but can he ever forgive?
With his two new closest friends Kib and Ote the author finds himself pulled into the culture, the life and the way of living in Kilifi and many other places. When someone close to the family he’s staying with dies he learns about their burial customs and realizes that he needs to respect their ways. From Nairobi, which he did not like, the matatu or bus to the people who love and live in Kilifi the author immerses readers deep inside the culture of these Africans, learns about why women use sex as a means to get money. Like the barter system in some ways thinking white men are rich and knowing that sex would mean getting a meal. As payment it is expected that the male take the woman out for breakfast. When Gerry does not he soon learns why Chantel is angry and has to develop the mind-set of these people.
Can he ever forgive and let go of his past? Will he forgive his father, mother and stepfather for what they did to him? Kenya proved dangerous and Uganda quite different as the author witnesses some horrific scenes. At times he questions himself as he does in Kenya reviewing his life before, remembering the horrors when he was in Ethiopia, the rape and the dead woman and what happened when he was with his friend Simon. Learning just how some wanted the best for the people and others wanted to profit, Gerry learns many hard and fast lessons. But, the most compelling one would be when he realizes that he is not evil, his parents feelings about him were wrong and his life did not need to be spent dwelling on the past. As you read Chapter 13 you will learn more. Hoping to create his own business in Africa wanted to do his artwork and establish himself little did he know that someone he briefly met with change his life even before he arrives back home? Meet the families he stayed with hear the voices of the children and listen as they each show him the love that his own family did not. Finding himself in one specific village the Mayor wanted to meet him and got him to agree to teach the children English. Dalila made him feel like one of her children and the rest of his journey you need to experience for yourself as Gerry finally learns the true meaning of family, caring and much more. Find out what happens on Christmas Day. Learn about the promises he makes the family that took him in. Hear the guns go off. See the victims of violence and experience his last moments before making his journey to find his friend. Where is he now? What happens that would shake anyone to the core? Does he still want to Kill Daddy? You decide when your read this outstanding memoir of a young man who ran away to escape his best, himself and just might have found who he really is. Like a sponge that is filled to the brim with water and you slowly squeezes the water out until there is nothing left. What happens to Gerry just might leave all the water in the sponge making him whole, strong and never having to worry about anyone squeezing it out leaving nothing inside? Told in the first person narrative by the author himself take the journey from start to finish and learn about the many villages in Africa, appreciate the culture, make sure you have your malaria pills and meet the amazing people that helped Gerry become stronger and rid himself of his insecurities and strengthen his future.
Fran Lewis: Reviewer
October 31, 2013
Gerald Freeman has been running from an abusive childhood for most of his adult life. He’s finally at a point where he’s realized that self-medicating with assorted drugs and pushing away well-meaning friends has gotten him nowhere. It’s time for a change. He toys with the idea of killing his father in an attempt to quell his inner demons, but fortunately, he opts for something more meaningful, legal and only slightly less dangerous: traveling throughout Africa on a journey of self-discovery.
Gerald Freeman is a master storyteller. I found myself immediately hooked and completely immersed in a story that could only be told by someone who lived through it. I was struck by how much I didn’t know about Africa. Mr. Freeman has successfully painted a vivid picture of life in some amazing and exotic, yet overwhelmingly poverty-stricken, places like Uganda and Kenya. From start to finish, the reader experiences both the beauty and the danger of traveling the back roads and jungles through the eyes of the author. Through bouts of malaria, flesh-eating parasite attacks, gunfire, attempted robberies and more, we are right there with the author. Experiencing the heartwarming stories and the daily trials and tribulations of several of the book’s “characters” has a powerful effect on readers. The many challenges encountered by the average African family gives us a greater sense of appreciation for what the rest of us sometimes take for granted.
Kill Daddy is one of those rare books that will stay with you long after you’ve finished reading the last page. I’ve heard that the best way to deal with our problems is to help other people with theirs. I got a real sense that the author was able to begin to heal by helping those around him. Gerald Freeman definitely has a philosophical way of looking at the world, without ever sounding hokey or preachy. I’m happy that Gerald Freeman chose to travel through Africa in favor of committing murder! I’m now looking forward to his next book!
Gerald Freeman is a master storyteller. I found myself immediately hooked and completely immersed in a story that could only be told by someone who lived through it. I was struck by how much I didn’t know about Africa. Mr. Freeman has successfully painted a vivid picture of life in some amazing and exotic, yet overwhelmingly poverty-stricken, places like Uganda and Kenya. From start to finish, the reader experiences both the beauty and the danger of traveling the back roads and jungles through the eyes of the author. Through bouts of malaria, flesh-eating parasite attacks, gunfire, attempted robberies and more, we are right there with the author. Experiencing the heartwarming stories and the daily trials and tribulations of several of the book’s “characters” has a powerful effect on readers. The many challenges encountered by the average African family gives us a greater sense of appreciation for what the rest of us sometimes take for granted.
Kill Daddy is one of those rare books that will stay with you long after you’ve finished reading the last page. I’ve heard that the best way to deal with our problems is to help other people with theirs. I got a real sense that the author was able to begin to heal by helping those around him. Gerald Freeman definitely has a philosophical way of looking at the world, without ever sounding hokey or preachy. I’m happy that Gerald Freeman chose to travel through Africa in favor of committing murder! I’m now looking forward to his next book!
November 6, 2013
Kill Daddy by Gerald Freeman
Gerry had a not so pleasant past, drugs, family problems, he felt like a lost soul. As the hatred fro his father builds he decides he needs a change and possibly find himself. He takes his money and travels to Africa.
Very interesting story line, I loved the details of life in Africa, I liked Gerry, even though he was flawed. I also enjoyed the writing style of Gerald Freeman, his way with words and detail had the feel as if I was there. Great read.
Gerry had a not so pleasant past, drugs, family problems, he felt like a lost soul. As the hatred fro his father builds he decides he needs a change and possibly find himself. He takes his money and travels to Africa.
Very interesting story line, I loved the details of life in Africa, I liked Gerry, even though he was flawed. I also enjoyed the writing style of Gerald Freeman, his way with words and detail had the feel as if I was there. Great read.
January 19, 2014
I plan to read anything this author writes after reading KILL DADDY. Africa came alive in my senses. This is a book you will feel and remember. Put this author on your list, and don't miss this book!
February 23, 2014
First off, I have to say, when I picked up this book I had no idea what to expect. I think, based on the title, I was expecting this to be a thriller, and maybe a little tongue in cheek (I might just be weird here, but 'Kill Daddy' seemed a slightly 'jaunty' title - murderous, but jaunty). Once I began reading, my next feeling was OMG, this is going to be heavy going survivor fiction/memoir (although I can see the theraputic value for a survivor to set out their memoirs, and I understand the importance of bringing such experiences out into the open, I also have some reservations as to the genre because of the potentially voyeuristic nature of some readers).
The first section, set in Europe, is quite heavy going, Gerry, the protagonist is very messed up, very angry, and at the end of his tether self medicating with a whole pharmacopeia of drugs in order to deaden the pain from his upbringing; however the book changed its tone as soon as Gerry set off for Africa, and from then on I was totally hooked. His journey through Africa looking for a remote beach hideaway in which to heal himself was utterly captivating. Far from a lone paradise, he found himself becoming part of a family and a community.
Africa, and it's people were described so well that I felt I was along on the journey with Gerry - Freeman to his African friends Kib and Ote. The exhilaration of the first days of travel, finding ones feet, the risks that pay-off, the risks that don't, all smacked of an authentic travel memoir. Gerry uses travel to heal himself and to learn to trust other people once again (and accept that sometimes trust can be misplaced - there are some hair raising moments of violence in the book), his experiences help him come to terms with himself and his past. Not quite forgiving his parents (why would he), but certainly accepting that what happened to him need not shape his entire life. His existential meanderings see him philosophising on the meaning of life and how interconnected things can be. The philosophy may not necessarily be ground-breaking or particularly original, but it felt authentic and heartfelt.
The travel section of the book, which is easily the bulk of the work, does not dwell on the abuse suffered by Gerry, so it never felt like a self- indulgent, misery-fest. Gerry comes across as very troubled, but also very likable and ultimately stronger for his experiences. The people he meets, the friendships he forms and the kindness he experiences from people who materially have very little, slowly work their magic on him. Having done a bit of independent travel myself (admittedly, for totally trivial self- indulgent reasons), I can completely understand why he chose this method of therapy - it might sound like a cliché, but you really can 'find yourself' when you travel (OK, you can also totally loose yourself when you travel - perhaps that is half of its draw). I have always felt that travel has a way of putting everything in perspective, whilst also providing time and emotional space to reflect on the things that matter.
Even though there were some aspects of the story that were not fully explored, such as the dramatic event that gave the book its title, and his relationship with Becky and Sarah, I don't feel the book lost that much from the omission. After-all, this is a memoir, the author can include or omit whatever he wants; and after-all when you are a traveler, the nature of the beast is that you will leave some threads untied.
Overall if you are looking for survivor pity-porn you won't find it here. What you will find is an uplifting memoir of someone who overcame some terrible experiences and took control of his life; that, and a really enjoyable travel memoir to boot!
The first section, set in Europe, is quite heavy going, Gerry, the protagonist is very messed up, very angry, and at the end of his tether self medicating with a whole pharmacopeia of drugs in order to deaden the pain from his upbringing; however the book changed its tone as soon as Gerry set off for Africa, and from then on I was totally hooked. His journey through Africa looking for a remote beach hideaway in which to heal himself was utterly captivating. Far from a lone paradise, he found himself becoming part of a family and a community.
Africa, and it's people were described so well that I felt I was along on the journey with Gerry - Freeman to his African friends Kib and Ote. The exhilaration of the first days of travel, finding ones feet, the risks that pay-off, the risks that don't, all smacked of an authentic travel memoir. Gerry uses travel to heal himself and to learn to trust other people once again (and accept that sometimes trust can be misplaced - there are some hair raising moments of violence in the book), his experiences help him come to terms with himself and his past. Not quite forgiving his parents (why would he), but certainly accepting that what happened to him need not shape his entire life. His existential meanderings see him philosophising on the meaning of life and how interconnected things can be. The philosophy may not necessarily be ground-breaking or particularly original, but it felt authentic and heartfelt.
The travel section of the book, which is easily the bulk of the work, does not dwell on the abuse suffered by Gerry, so it never felt like a self- indulgent, misery-fest. Gerry comes across as very troubled, but also very likable and ultimately stronger for his experiences. The people he meets, the friendships he forms and the kindness he experiences from people who materially have very little, slowly work their magic on him. Having done a bit of independent travel myself (admittedly, for totally trivial self- indulgent reasons), I can completely understand why he chose this method of therapy - it might sound like a cliché, but you really can 'find yourself' when you travel (OK, you can also totally loose yourself when you travel - perhaps that is half of its draw). I have always felt that travel has a way of putting everything in perspective, whilst also providing time and emotional space to reflect on the things that matter.
Even though there were some aspects of the story that were not fully explored, such as the dramatic event that gave the book its title, and his relationship with Becky and Sarah, I don't feel the book lost that much from the omission. After-all, this is a memoir, the author can include or omit whatever he wants; and after-all when you are a traveler, the nature of the beast is that you will leave some threads untied.
Overall if you are looking for survivor pity-porn you won't find it here. What you will find is an uplifting memoir of someone who overcame some terrible experiences and took control of his life; that, and a really enjoyable travel memoir to boot!
August 14, 2016
***3.5 stars***
My first impression of Kill Daddy was that of profound sadness for Gerry. The opening chapters paint a heart-breaking picture of a man who’s been abandoned by his parents, left friendless (by his own doing) and reliant on drugs and alcohol to get through his sad and lonely days.
After another rejection from his father, Gerry decides to go to Africa to put his life pack together and gain a little perspective. After packing up his meager possessions and his semi-transient life in Portugal, he buys an open-ended ticket to Nairobi in eastern Africa.
Gerry ends up living in a village – immersed with the people – for a few months, learning that despite being in a completely different country and culture, all people are essentially the same. It is here that he finally begins to find a sense of peace, a sense of being complete and it is these people who have very little in their lives yet are willing to share everything with him.
Kill Daddy has a lot of great descriptions of everyday life in Nairobi from the “matatu” (bus) to the people who call the small seaside village of Kilifi home. As a reader, you get a real sense of what Gerry was feeling and thinking. The vivid descriptions of how people live adds to the intensity of the experiences Gerry describes.
But with all of these good things, Gerry also learns about the kind of mentality Africans have. He finds out that women use sex as a tool – especially when it came to him, a perceived ‘rich white man’. Sex is a means of getting a meal in Africa, and women make no apologies for that. At first he’s angry that he’s been used in such a way, but he soon realises that this mind-set is embedded in their culture.
Kill Daddy is a story about learning to forgive the people who have wronged you – in Gerry’s case it was his mother, father and stepfather who had contributed to his insecurities. Over all, the actual story-telling is very easy to follow. I was curious to know about this man who seemingly wants to take revenge on his father for how he was treated growing up. I also wanted to know how he would come out at the other end. Would he find what he was looking for? How would he change his life?
There were some really poignant thoughts/realisations throughout the book, however on one or two occasions his theories of life and the world in general took on a preaching edge which I found left a sour taste in my mouth. Additionally, there were also some transitions in the book – especially nearing the end – where the movement from one event to another was jerky, jarring my reading flow.
Overall though, I enjoyed reading Kill Daddy. Although not my usual choice of genre, I’m glad that I picked this book up and gave it a chance.
My first impression of Kill Daddy was that of profound sadness for Gerry. The opening chapters paint a heart-breaking picture of a man who’s been abandoned by his parents, left friendless (by his own doing) and reliant on drugs and alcohol to get through his sad and lonely days.
After another rejection from his father, Gerry decides to go to Africa to put his life pack together and gain a little perspective. After packing up his meager possessions and his semi-transient life in Portugal, he buys an open-ended ticket to Nairobi in eastern Africa.
Gerry ends up living in a village – immersed with the people – for a few months, learning that despite being in a completely different country and culture, all people are essentially the same. It is here that he finally begins to find a sense of peace, a sense of being complete and it is these people who have very little in their lives yet are willing to share everything with him.
Kill Daddy has a lot of great descriptions of everyday life in Nairobi from the “matatu” (bus) to the people who call the small seaside village of Kilifi home. As a reader, you get a real sense of what Gerry was feeling and thinking. The vivid descriptions of how people live adds to the intensity of the experiences Gerry describes.
But with all of these good things, Gerry also learns about the kind of mentality Africans have. He finds out that women use sex as a tool – especially when it came to him, a perceived ‘rich white man’. Sex is a means of getting a meal in Africa, and women make no apologies for that. At first he’s angry that he’s been used in such a way, but he soon realises that this mind-set is embedded in their culture.
Kill Daddy is a story about learning to forgive the people who have wronged you – in Gerry’s case it was his mother, father and stepfather who had contributed to his insecurities. Over all, the actual story-telling is very easy to follow. I was curious to know about this man who seemingly wants to take revenge on his father for how he was treated growing up. I also wanted to know how he would come out at the other end. Would he find what he was looking for? How would he change his life?
There were some really poignant thoughts/realisations throughout the book, however on one or two occasions his theories of life and the world in general took on a preaching edge which I found left a sour taste in my mouth. Additionally, there were also some transitions in the book – especially nearing the end – where the movement from one event to another was jerky, jarring my reading flow.
Overall though, I enjoyed reading Kill Daddy. Although not my usual choice of genre, I’m glad that I picked this book up and gave it a chance.
March 25, 2014
There’s trauma in every one’s life, it defines who we are as people, it shapes who we will become and how we react to every situation presented to us – for some that trauma is relatively minor (like an across state-line move in the middle of your formative school years) or major (like child abuse, and neglect) and in the end-it’s all a matter of how you react to those minor and major traumas that will define you as a person. Having never personally had any major life trauma, some minor traumas of bullying in school, I cannot relate to those who have suffered major traumas on any level, I can be sympathetic, but not empathetic. Luckily I came from a solid foundation with loving-supportive parents who told me to ignore the bully’s and they will eventually go away – to which they did leave me be, we never become best buds, but I got left alone – and sink back into their holes. Unlike those unlucky ones who suffer major traumas that require years of therapy and healing I was able to move on easily once I graduated high school.
For Gerry Freeman the trauma of being viewed as a devil child who is just plain evil was formative to the person he became as a young adult. He separated himself from all relationships before they become semi-permanent because he learned early on that those relationships can become toxic and abusive should those people learn his true identity – or at least the identity he was told all of his life he had. So instead of forming bonding relationships with people, he instead chose to self-medicate with alcohol and drugs bonding himself to the power of those vs. the people around him who might become close. In order to try and overcome this constant push and pull process he decides to immerse himself in a culture otherwise unknown and mysterious to the world as a whole, on a whim he decides to travel to Africa in hopes of healing himself.
I found I had a push and pull relationship with this novel simply because from one side I could see where Gerry aka Freeman was coming from, however, I found it hard to get into the book. The story line read like a travel brochure at first and then as the memoir it is…honestly while I enjoyed reading about the interior of Africa with the simplicity of the lives of the people Gerry interacted with and the gorgeous realm of the world he inhabited, I could not help but wonder how the travels connected to his separating and healing himself from his past. I found the ending to be abrupt and left me wondering what came of Gerry, did he heal? Was he able to move forward with his life and let go of his past?
Four out of Five Stars for Kill Daddy
**I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review**
For Gerry Freeman the trauma of being viewed as a devil child who is just plain evil was formative to the person he became as a young adult. He separated himself from all relationships before they become semi-permanent because he learned early on that those relationships can become toxic and abusive should those people learn his true identity – or at least the identity he was told all of his life he had. So instead of forming bonding relationships with people, he instead chose to self-medicate with alcohol and drugs bonding himself to the power of those vs. the people around him who might become close. In order to try and overcome this constant push and pull process he decides to immerse himself in a culture otherwise unknown and mysterious to the world as a whole, on a whim he decides to travel to Africa in hopes of healing himself.
I found I had a push and pull relationship with this novel simply because from one side I could see where Gerry aka Freeman was coming from, however, I found it hard to get into the book. The story line read like a travel brochure at first and then as the memoir it is…honestly while I enjoyed reading about the interior of Africa with the simplicity of the lives of the people Gerry interacted with and the gorgeous realm of the world he inhabited, I could not help but wonder how the travels connected to his separating and healing himself from his past. I found the ending to be abrupt and left me wondering what came of Gerry, did he heal? Was he able to move forward with his life and let go of his past?
Four out of Five Stars for Kill Daddy
**I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review**
January 23, 2014
Note : This Review was originally posted @ Readers' Muse
When the writer contacted us for a review, we were in the middle of the #Womanifesto campaign planning. Here we are running a campaign to make a change in women’s lives and a book about an abused man’s road of recovery lands! Ironical isn’t it?
The characterisation was pretty good. More than the characterisation, the process of repairing an emotional damage was brought out beautifully.
The writer made an exemplar job of portraying various emotions along with their shades of variance.
The book was akin to a tour guide to Africa. Of course, unlike a conventional tour guide this book brought out the psychology of African People and their culture. One thing that is clearly evident is that the writer either has travelled extensively. But if this is his memoir I’d say, it’s really not up to the mark.
The process of healing isn’t as simple as the writer portrayed it to be. It’s complicated. But there is another angle of looking at it. May be the process of healing is so subtle that our protagonist didn’t even realize he has been healed.
The writing was pretty much simple. Though the emotions were portrayed beautifully, I felt they lacked the conviction and that depth. I felt the writer sorted of underplayed it out of the fear of writing a book with heavy emotions which might not go down well with many people.
SUBTLE would be the perfect word to describe this book.
One thing I really didn’t understand was the “lady love” part. Gerry’s love interests seemed very superficial and a bit confusing. It sort of left me wondering if the readers were supposed to feel that or was it just me?
The best thing about this book – The Irony – A depressed protagonist in search of “an emotional cure”/ seeking to be healed in a poverty ridden and struggling country and ends up getting his wish fulfilled.
What could have been better: More emotions. A bit of depth to the emotions would have done the trick. The title of the book could have been something positive.
VERDICT: It’s a slow and subtle inspiring read. Do not expect a racy plot line.
RATING: 4 on 5
When the writer contacted us for a review, we were in the middle of the #Womanifesto campaign planning. Here we are running a campaign to make a change in women’s lives and a book about an abused man’s road of recovery lands! Ironical isn’t it?
The characterisation was pretty good. More than the characterisation, the process of repairing an emotional damage was brought out beautifully.
The writer made an exemplar job of portraying various emotions along with their shades of variance.
The book was akin to a tour guide to Africa. Of course, unlike a conventional tour guide this book brought out the psychology of African People and their culture. One thing that is clearly evident is that the writer either has travelled extensively. But if this is his memoir I’d say, it’s really not up to the mark.
The process of healing isn’t as simple as the writer portrayed it to be. It’s complicated. But there is another angle of looking at it. May be the process of healing is so subtle that our protagonist didn’t even realize he has been healed.
The writing was pretty much simple. Though the emotions were portrayed beautifully, I felt they lacked the conviction and that depth. I felt the writer sorted of underplayed it out of the fear of writing a book with heavy emotions which might not go down well with many people.
SUBTLE would be the perfect word to describe this book.
One thing I really didn’t understand was the “lady love” part. Gerry’s love interests seemed very superficial and a bit confusing. It sort of left me wondering if the readers were supposed to feel that or was it just me?
The best thing about this book – The Irony – A depressed protagonist in search of “an emotional cure”/ seeking to be healed in a poverty ridden and struggling country and ends up getting his wish fulfilled.
What could have been better: More emotions. A bit of depth to the emotions would have done the trick. The title of the book could have been something positive.
VERDICT: It’s a slow and subtle inspiring read. Do not expect a racy plot line.
RATING: 4 on 5
October 28, 2013
The start had me hooked. Wondering what had caused this character, Gerry, to be in the state he was in.
A depressing life for the main character. Abused and neglected by both parents, driven to commit desperate acts. And now in adulthood he struggles with the past, trying to understand how it all went wrong.
The fascinating world of Africa, the poor world, the over-crowded country. The novel gives an informative insight to this completely different world. Probably the highlight to the novel; as although in certain areas there were some interesting aspects, it was a bit slow in places.
Although this story reads like a typical novel, it does come across more like a biography which it really is. The author writes about his own experience of child abuse, neglect and hardship. His battle with drugs and other demons. His travels across Africa is a fascinating insight to this culture. He clearly creates an image of the stark landscape, and the surprising friendliness of the people.
His near death experiences a reminder of how dangerous this country is. A surprising twist to his adventures is his falling into the job of teaching the children, revealing of how the abuse made him, and how these children changed him.
The story continues going back to the days of the terrible abuse the author suffered. It shows the amazing power of resilience. It is hard to believe that such terrible things can happen, and how some choose to overcome it.
Although this novel may not be the most interesting novel I’ve read, the courage it must have taken for the author to put all of this on paper is incredible. Suitable for those that need a journey of self-discovery. Because it is based on real events it does make this story a bit more sentimental.
Just don’t expect a lot of excitement, as the book is created to convey the experiences of the author, not to hype up the book.
3/5 stars
A depressing life for the main character. Abused and neglected by both parents, driven to commit desperate acts. And now in adulthood he struggles with the past, trying to understand how it all went wrong.
The fascinating world of Africa, the poor world, the over-crowded country. The novel gives an informative insight to this completely different world. Probably the highlight to the novel; as although in certain areas there were some interesting aspects, it was a bit slow in places.
Although this story reads like a typical novel, it does come across more like a biography which it really is. The author writes about his own experience of child abuse, neglect and hardship. His battle with drugs and other demons. His travels across Africa is a fascinating insight to this culture. He clearly creates an image of the stark landscape, and the surprising friendliness of the people.
His near death experiences a reminder of how dangerous this country is. A surprising twist to his adventures is his falling into the job of teaching the children, revealing of how the abuse made him, and how these children changed him.
The story continues going back to the days of the terrible abuse the author suffered. It shows the amazing power of resilience. It is hard to believe that such terrible things can happen, and how some choose to overcome it.
Although this novel may not be the most interesting novel I’ve read, the courage it must have taken for the author to put all of this on paper is incredible. Suitable for those that need a journey of self-discovery. Because it is based on real events it does make this story a bit more sentimental.
Just don’t expect a lot of excitement, as the book is created to convey the experiences of the author, not to hype up the book.
3/5 stars
January 26, 2014
When I first agreed to review this book, I was a little taken aback by the title. What manner of book was this going to be? Was it going to be something I didn't want to read? And the first chapter or two didn't reassure me, though it wasn't what I had expected. The workings of despair and mental dis-ease are not pretty, or logical or even particularly good story lines. But when we stepped off the plane into Africa (and yes I mean "we" because I was with the author from the beginning, despite his illogical, despairing life, or perhaps because I recognised it) the whole course of the book changed and I lost the doubts entirely.
Gerry is a consummate story teller. Like many good stories, this one rises and falls like a roller coaster. He is so good at building tension, and creating release; juxtaposing stress and danger and fear against love and peace and security.
Not only did I love the story, I learned so much from it. I've learned about the dread-lock holiday culture, I've learned about Africa and its people and culture. I've learned about the relationship between rich and poor and I've been given much to ponder about mental recovery.
I thought that this was probably not an autobiography, but maybe a memoir, and on researching I find that it is certainly based on experience. It is certainly incredibly authentic.
Kill Daddy
I am left with thoughts about the value of unconditional love and acceptance in mental health, about the challenges we face and their ability to give us mental strength, about cultures that value "hacuna matata", but most of all I am left with memories that are stuck in my head ... just of the story - the people, the events, the emotions. And *that* is the mark of a great read.
Gerry is a consummate story teller. Like many good stories, this one rises and falls like a roller coaster. He is so good at building tension, and creating release; juxtaposing stress and danger and fear against love and peace and security.
Not only did I love the story, I learned so much from it. I've learned about the dread-lock holiday culture, I've learned about Africa and its people and culture. I've learned about the relationship between rich and poor and I've been given much to ponder about mental recovery.
I thought that this was probably not an autobiography, but maybe a memoir, and on researching I find that it is certainly based on experience. It is certainly incredibly authentic.
Kill Daddy
I am left with thoughts about the value of unconditional love and acceptance in mental health, about the challenges we face and their ability to give us mental strength, about cultures that value "hacuna matata", but most of all I am left with memories that are stuck in my head ... just of the story - the people, the events, the emotions. And *that* is the mark of a great read.
May 8, 2014
Killing Daddy is a thought-provoking journey taken with the author as he attempts to pull his life together after hitting another wall trying to figure out why he had not gotten past the abuse, drugs, and negative relationships with family. He ran away from home at age 15 at his mother's request, and burned bridges with his friends over the years because of drug use. He finally decides to take himself out of that whole lifestyle, into a totally different culture, learning new languages, learning to live on the same poverty level as many of those he met while in Africa. The resolve of the author to immerse himself into a totally different lifestyle, alone, and leave the touristy attitude at home in Portugal, I felt, was a gutsy move. The author does not get flowery with his language, nor does he romanticize he trip thru Africa. He expresses his emotions simply as they are, and moves on, one day at a time until he learns who he is, what he is capable of, and accepts himself as a whole person. His determination to heal himself as well as accept the various people and culture he came to know, and then share it with the rest of the world, gives the reader greater appreciation for not only his journey, but for those simple pleasures that the rest of us take for granted. I would definitely recommend this book to others. ***This book was a promotional copy received through Goodreads Giveaways****
November 4, 2015
I almost quit reading this book after the first chapter. Gerry is such a jerk, lying to his father about having been arrested and then being angry with him because he wouldn't jump to his (Gerry's) rescue. But, as I usually do with a book already begun, I persevered despite my initial disgust.
Now I'm glad I finished the book. Turns out Gerry had some other pretty good reasons for being angry with his father, and, while Gerry is not exactly a paragon of virtue, he has many redeeming qualities. I guess the correct literary label to stick on him is "complex character". He engages in drugs, alcohol, and sex (once with a friend's mother), but he shares generously with others (giving away his anti-malaria pills to the extent that he is without them when he himself contracts the disease) and sticks up for his friends even to his own peril. While it's easy (at least for me) to condemn the former, it's hard to ignore the significant virtue of the latter. So I conclude that while Gerry has his faults, my initial judgment of him was unwarranted and reveals my own fault of a rush to judgment, something explicitly condemned by my own Christian religion. This is another example to me of the importance of getting the whole story before rendering a conclusion.
Now I'm glad I finished the book. Turns out Gerry had some other pretty good reasons for being angry with his father, and, while Gerry is not exactly a paragon of virtue, he has many redeeming qualities. I guess the correct literary label to stick on him is "complex character". He engages in drugs, alcohol, and sex (once with a friend's mother), but he shares generously with others (giving away his anti-malaria pills to the extent that he is without them when he himself contracts the disease) and sticks up for his friends even to his own peril. While it's easy (at least for me) to condemn the former, it's hard to ignore the significant virtue of the latter. So I conclude that while Gerry has his faults, my initial judgment of him was unwarranted and reveals my own fault of a rush to judgment, something explicitly condemned by my own Christian religion. This is another example to me of the importance of getting the whole story before rendering a conclusion.
November 21, 2013
I was disappointed in the beginning of this book. Depressing. Gerry tells about how he plans to kill his father and then kill himself. Not only is this part of the book depressing but his life is depressing with the child abuse from his step Dad, real Dad who ignores him, rape by a neighbor, and an abusive mother whose best advise was to run away from home.
I continued with the book, though. And, Gerry continued his soul searching. He decides to travel to east Africa, specifically Kenya and Uganda. He goes not as a tourist but as a traveler. He lives with a family in Kilifi where he has been the only musungo (sp?) - white person- to visit in years.
In Africa, he discovers the culture,the people, and the wonderful forests & coasts . He also finds the violence that we often associate with Africa. Most importantly, he finds a familial type of love and his soul is found.
The latter half was enjoyable.
I continued with the book, though. And, Gerry continued his soul searching. He decides to travel to east Africa, specifically Kenya and Uganda. He goes not as a tourist but as a traveler. He lives with a family in Kilifi where he has been the only musungo (sp?) - white person- to visit in years.
In Africa, he discovers the culture,the people, and the wonderful forests & coasts . He also finds the violence that we often associate with Africa. Most importantly, he finds a familial type of love and his soul is found.
The latter half was enjoyable.
December 8, 2013
This is such a lovely book! Honest from the heart. Someone once told me,if you are going to write a book, you should write the things you think you shouldn't write, because its too honest and you don't want anyone to know , then you write a good book! This is what this author has done. We all have our skeletons in the cupboard but we don't want to talk about it. This author does and in such a way that you are taken by it! His life in Africa is so well told that you feel you are there with him. I'm looking forward to read his next book! I want to know what happens later in his life. I think it's something positive and encouraging and I want to know about it! Please, Gerald Freeman ! Write what happened next! I'm so much looking forward to it!
November 16, 2013
I was given this book by the author for review.
I've read and reviewed many, many books but this one was not only thought-provoking but took me on an intriguing, if harrowing journey, one which lays bare a lost soul trying to make sense of the world. It explores the cruelties of human interaction and the battle to find out the best way forward.
I don't give spoilers but will say that this story was certainly emotional and a brave attempt to share an uphill battle...but that's all I'll say.
Worth a look for sure.
I've read and reviewed many, many books but this one was not only thought-provoking but took me on an intriguing, if harrowing journey, one which lays bare a lost soul trying to make sense of the world. It explores the cruelties of human interaction and the battle to find out the best way forward.
I don't give spoilers but will say that this story was certainly emotional and a brave attempt to share an uphill battle...but that's all I'll say.
Worth a look for sure.
November 27, 2013
Gerry felt like a lost soul, he had an unplesant past, family problems, drugs. When the hatred for his father grows he decides he needs to find himself. He uses his money to travel to Africa. I loved all the details about Africa , made me feel like i was there. I liked Gerry even though he was flawed. Gerald Freeman has a way with words and detail. A truly great read i look forward to reading more books by Gerald Freeman
December 7, 2013
The book caught my attention right from the beginning and continued to till the end. I found it so sad for main character when he spoke of his life growing up in his dysfunctional family and made me appreciate my family more then ever. On the other hand if he didn't go through what he did as a child he might have never traveled to the places he has and have never had the good, bad and great experiences.
May 23, 2014
An adventure story about a man seeking not adventure, but peace around him and especially within himself. He is surrounded by African (human and animal) wildlife and finds the family-life his parents couldn't or wouldn't give him. Exciting and also a, sometimes, sad story.
Thank you, Gerald Freeman, for sharing your story!
Thank you, Gerald Freeman, for sharing your story!
August 13, 2016
a story of how much a human being can withstand and still be human.. hard to put down. because there is always a sense of something is going to happen. good book.
October 30, 2022
I am not sure what I expected when I saw the title of this book. I had it on my list and never bothered to read the synopsis when I ordered it from the library. In my mind I thought it was about killing his father but it turned out to be about running from his childhood memories and the almost actuality of killing his father.
The author decided to go to Africa to find some peace and soothe his soul and along the way had many adventures and met many people who helped and supported him throughout his journey. he trusted his instincts many times and they worked out synchronistically and other times things didn't. In the end he achieves what he went for, peace.
The author decided to go to Africa to find some peace and soothe his soul and along the way had many adventures and met many people who helped and supported him throughout his journey. he trusted his instincts many times and they worked out synchronistically and other times things didn't. In the end he achieves what he went for, peace.
February 3, 2014
I am so tired of people blaming their upbringing for their unhappy adulthood and poor decision making. Hundreds of thousands of children have horrible, abusive childhoods, and most of them manage to grow into happy, productive adults. There comes a point when you have to stop blaming others for your problems, and take some personal responsibility.
I found this author to be incredibly whiney, with a constant "poor me" attitude. While parts of his African narrative held my interest, most of it was pretty repetitive and uneventful. I was bored through the majority of the book.
There are much better written world travel books. I'd give this one a pass.
UPDATE: after posting this review on Amazon, the author left a vaguely huffy comment on a review I wrote for another book. Guess he didn't like my review of his work, but wasn't mature enough to say so. stranger still, he left his comment using the name Eva Ericsson; I guess it's possible that Eva is a friend or relative, but there was an embedded link listing the poster as the author of Kill Daddy. This prompted me to look at his web page...
Kill Daddy is marketed as a memoir, but the author calls it a novel based on his African travels. As a memoir, my review above stands as is; however, as a novel, I'd have to downgrade this book to one star. There is no excuse, in my opinion, to write a novel with so little plot.
For anyone interested, here's his website: http://www.gerryaldridgedesign.dinstu...
He's definitely a creative guy, whether I like his novel or not. Too bad he's so touchy about a negative review. If you're unable to accept that not everyone will enjoy a work you've poured your soul into, art of any kind is the wrong field for you to be in.
SECOND UPDATE: I received the following message from the author this morning. I do understand protective spouses, and apologize if she took my honest review as insulting; my feelings about the novel are my opinion, however, and this site is intended to convey that. As the author states in his message below, "no hard feelings." I wish him success in his future endeavors.
From the author: "hi,
yes, my wife was a little upset about the way you say, you do not like my book, whiney etc is rather insulting.She also has seen the affects of abuse first hand. I have heard about stories like this, authors getting angry, I honestly, am not bothered by what you think, of course, I wish you could have been less insulting, more constructive, sensitive and not wasted your time reading my book, but in the end, I put my story out there to be judged. No hard feelings, whatsoever, my wife is very protective.You can add this to your goodreads update, if it is in fact that, an honest update.
have a great day, I will take this as a lesson.Life is too short and all that!"
I found this author to be incredibly whiney, with a constant "poor me" attitude. While parts of his African narrative held my interest, most of it was pretty repetitive and uneventful. I was bored through the majority of the book.
There are much better written world travel books. I'd give this one a pass.
UPDATE: after posting this review on Amazon, the author left a vaguely huffy comment on a review I wrote for another book. Guess he didn't like my review of his work, but wasn't mature enough to say so. stranger still, he left his comment using the name Eva Ericsson; I guess it's possible that Eva is a friend or relative, but there was an embedded link listing the poster as the author of Kill Daddy. This prompted me to look at his web page...
Kill Daddy is marketed as a memoir, but the author calls it a novel based on his African travels. As a memoir, my review above stands as is; however, as a novel, I'd have to downgrade this book to one star. There is no excuse, in my opinion, to write a novel with so little plot.
For anyone interested, here's his website: http://www.gerryaldridgedesign.dinstu...
He's definitely a creative guy, whether I like his novel or not. Too bad he's so touchy about a negative review. If you're unable to accept that not everyone will enjoy a work you've poured your soul into, art of any kind is the wrong field for you to be in.
SECOND UPDATE: I received the following message from the author this morning. I do understand protective spouses, and apologize if she took my honest review as insulting; my feelings about the novel are my opinion, however, and this site is intended to convey that. As the author states in his message below, "no hard feelings." I wish him success in his future endeavors.
From the author: "hi,
yes, my wife was a little upset about the way you say, you do not like my book, whiney etc is rather insulting.She also has seen the affects of abuse first hand. I have heard about stories like this, authors getting angry, I honestly, am not bothered by what you think, of course, I wish you could have been less insulting, more constructive, sensitive and not wasted your time reading my book, but in the end, I put my story out there to be judged. No hard feelings, whatsoever, my wife is very protective.You can add this to your goodreads update, if it is in fact that, an honest update.
have a great day, I will take this as a lesson.Life is too short and all that!"
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