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The Echoist
If we knew what lies in the truth of our dreams, how much pain would be brought to life?
Tatum Campbell has never been afraid of the monsters lurking in the dark. They’re supposed to be the fictitious ones after all. From a far too young age she faced the harsh reality that true monsters live amongst us. Hers just happened to call himself her father.
In an effort to heal from her past, Tatum seeks help through a therapist, where she begins to discover that perhaps her monster didn’t stay in the past after all.
Her dreams have become better than her reality as she yearns for a relationship where she feels safe. Her behavior towards her husband is changing as much as he has and she finds herself in a spiral she never even imagined while fighting the echoes of her demons.
Addison Foster, her best friend, is determined to make sure Tatum never fights alone. But by the time the secrets lying dormant in her subconscious are revealed, will Tatum be the only one hoping to survive?
Tatum Campbell has never been afraid of the monsters lurking in the dark. They’re supposed to be the fictitious ones after all. From a far too young age she faced the harsh reality that true monsters live amongst us. Hers just happened to call himself her father.
In an effort to heal from her past, Tatum seeks help through a therapist, where she begins to discover that perhaps her monster didn’t stay in the past after all.
Her dreams have become better than her reality as she yearns for a relationship where she feels safe. Her behavior towards her husband is changing as much as he has and she finds herself in a spiral she never even imagined while fighting the echoes of her demons.
Addison Foster, her best friend, is determined to make sure Tatum never fights alone. But by the time the secrets lying dormant in her subconscious are revealed, will Tatum be the only one hoping to survive?
- GenresDark Romance
313 pages, Paperback
Published June 1, 2023
35 people are currently reading
858 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
May 21, 2023
—🥃 4.5 stars 🥃—
“Do you know what the most toxic part of a daffodil is?
The core.”
————about the book————
Release date: June 1st
Age: A
Genres: fiction, contemporary, small town,
Writing: 9/10
Quotes: 8/10
World building: n/a
Characters: 8/10
Romance: —
My rating: 9/10
Many thanks to Eliza Anne for this digital ARC.
All thoughts and opinions are my own.
TRIGGER WARNINGS: domestic abuse, violence, emotional and physical abuse, child abuse, non-consent, death and grief, etc.
———my thoughts———
Tatum Campbell has never been afraid of the monsters living in the dark.
After all, she lived with one from a young age.
In an effort to heal from her past, she seeks help from a therapist, only to realise that not all the monsters stayed behind her.
As her husband’s behaviour becomes more and more unpredictable, Tatum finds herself in a spiral she never imagined while fighting her demons, past and present.
Addison Foster, her best friend, is determined to help Tatum.
But when all the secrets are revealed, what will be the cost?
Domestic abuse is a terrifying thing.
But it’s also terrifyingly relatable.
So many people go through it in their lifetime, and it’s a topic that tends to be brushed over.
Because we don’t want to believe someone could do that, we will blame the victim instead.
why did you make him angry?
you just don’t understand how he feels.
Abusers are excused over and over and over.
So someone has to be brave enough to come forward.
And someone has to spread the word.
Eliza Anne wrote this book to tell so many people’s stories.
And she did it so well.
The writing was beautiful.
Absolutely heartbreaking, but with this tinge of hope.
The internal dialogue, the dreams, the interactions, they were all crafted with so much skill.
Even with all the sadness and hurt and pain, there are small pockets of joy, of hope.
And that’s just as important to show.
The characters are so fundamentally human, and I could find something to love about them in almost all of them.
Tatum, I loved for her fire.
James, I loved for his love, and his care.
And Addison, I loved for her heart, her determination, and for all of herself.
This book put me through so many emotions, and I don’t think I’m the same person after finishing it.
The last chapter had me crying, and I don’t think I will ever recover.
————quotes————
“My mind had become a dangerous place. A place I couldn’t escape.”
“If she said she was okay, then I had to believe her.”
“A wave that has nothing to do with the ocean and everything to do with pure terror envelopes me.”
———random extra thoughts———
I would recommend this book to everyone...but please check out the trigger warnings!
Thanks for reading!❤️
“Do you know what the most toxic part of a daffodil is?
The core.”
————about the book————
Release date: June 1st
Age: A
Genres: fiction, contemporary, small town,
Writing: 9/10
Quotes: 8/10
World building: n/a
Characters: 8/10
Romance: —
My rating: 9/10
Many thanks to Eliza Anne for this digital ARC.
All thoughts and opinions are my own.
TRIGGER WARNINGS: domestic abuse, violence, emotional and physical abuse, child abuse, non-consent, death and grief, etc.
———my thoughts———
Tatum Campbell has never been afraid of the monsters living in the dark.
After all, she lived with one from a young age.
In an effort to heal from her past, she seeks help from a therapist, only to realise that not all the monsters stayed behind her.
As her husband’s behaviour becomes more and more unpredictable, Tatum finds herself in a spiral she never imagined while fighting her demons, past and present.
Addison Foster, her best friend, is determined to help Tatum.
But when all the secrets are revealed, what will be the cost?
Domestic abuse is a terrifying thing.
But it’s also terrifyingly relatable.
So many people go through it in their lifetime, and it’s a topic that tends to be brushed over.
Because we don’t want to believe someone could do that, we will blame the victim instead.
why did you make him angry?
you just don’t understand how he feels.
Abusers are excused over and over and over.
So someone has to be brave enough to come forward.
And someone has to spread the word.
Eliza Anne wrote this book to tell so many people’s stories.
And she did it so well.
The writing was beautiful.
Absolutely heartbreaking, but with this tinge of hope.
The internal dialogue, the dreams, the interactions, they were all crafted with so much skill.
Even with all the sadness and hurt and pain, there are small pockets of joy, of hope.
And that’s just as important to show.
The characters are so fundamentally human, and I could find something to love about them in almost all of them.
Tatum, I loved for her fire.
James, I loved for his love, and his care.
And Addison, I loved for her heart, her determination, and for all of herself.
This book put me through so many emotions, and I don’t think I’m the same person after finishing it.
The last chapter had me crying, and I don’t think I will ever recover.
————quotes————
“My mind had become a dangerous place. A place I couldn’t escape.”
“If she said she was okay, then I had to believe her.”
“A wave that has nothing to do with the ocean and everything to do with pure terror envelopes me.”
———random extra thoughts———
I would recommend this book to everyone...but please check out the trigger warnings!
Thanks for reading!❤️
May 18, 2023
Full disclosure I don’t normally read this genre. I happened to win an ARC copy in a giveaway so I read it because that is the polite thing to do rather than leave it on my shelf to collect dust. Let me tell you I am so glad I read it!
The writing is great and pulls out all the emotions. Not only that but it is so relatable it’s scary. The fact that this author wrote on a topic that people ignore because of posterity sake is huge! She brings to light the fact that things like this happen everyday. Happy endings aren’t always how we perceive them and sometimes merely surviving is all we can do. This book is going to touch so many lives and hopefully help so many people.
Hard to believe this is her debut novel! I highly recommend and can’t wait to see what this author writes next. Also hello James 🥵
The writing is great and pulls out all the emotions. Not only that but it is so relatable it’s scary. The fact that this author wrote on a topic that people ignore because of posterity sake is huge! She brings to light the fact that things like this happen everyday. Happy endings aren’t always how we perceive them and sometimes merely surviving is all we can do. This book is going to touch so many lives and hopefully help so many people.
Hard to believe this is her debut novel! I highly recommend and can’t wait to see what this author writes next. Also hello James 🥵
December 27, 2023
What happens when you wake up one day and realize you have become everything you said you would never be? What happens when you make excuses for other’s problems?
This book will take you on emotional roller coaster of what is right and wrong, fair and just, and bad and evil. The characters in this story are real and relatable. The monsters in this story aren’t living under your bed, they are sleeping in your bed.
How much will you put up with to save face?
This book will take you on emotional roller coaster of what is right and wrong, fair and just, and bad and evil. The characters in this story are real and relatable. The monsters in this story aren’t living under your bed, they are sleeping in your bed.
How much will you put up with to save face?
August 17, 2023
First off.. James hello I’m here😍 This author took a topic and wrote/handled it so well that so many people will enjoy this. I think it’s nice reading that sometimes it’s not all happy it’s just getting by (surviving!). Tatum realized yes she puts her daughter first but she can and should put herself before others. While Addison is the friend everyone wants; going through so much but still there for you fully?
May 30, 2023
I feel SO privileged to of been an ARC reader for Eliza. The writing was captivating. The flow between chapters and the multiple POVs was beautiful. It seemed effortless and flowed so well. You can literally FEEL the characters emotions fly off the page. You feel like you’re actually IN the book with them. The last three or four chapters COMPLETELY sucked me in and I was biting my nails to get to the end (which WRECKED ME). I would 100% recommend this book.
This review and wording is 100% my own 🙂
This review and wording is 100% my own 🙂
July 9, 2023
In the top 3 books I've read! Written so well and the story line is amazing!!
Read
August 23, 2023This book took me time to read. Rarely does a book affect me the way this one did. I had to take breaks because Eliza makes you feel so many things. I would 100% recommend.
June 1, 2023
Guys you have to read this book for your self!
5/5⭐️
Eliza did such a amazing job writing this book and sharing it with all of us! I don’t know how I’m going to recover after this book I’ve never cried so much over a book it’s insane!
Also We Hate BRYCE he’s toxic❗️
5/5⭐️
Eliza did such a amazing job writing this book and sharing it with all of us! I don’t know how I’m going to recover after this book I’ve never cried so much over a book it’s insane!
Also We Hate BRYCE he’s toxic❗️
May 23, 2023
W O W!
This brought so many feelings to the surface ... However, they were all welcomed.
This book molded resilience, determination, knowledge, self-awareness ... and so many other words to describe most of the characters in this story. This book also brought narcissm, irresponsibility, masochist, cowardness, etc., to describe other characters in this story. They were perefect!
I commend Tatum, for putting her daughter first. I am also grateful that she realized she needed to put herself first before thinking of others.
I commend Addison, because she was the most selfless character here. Not only was she going through her own, but she was there to give Tatum a shoulder, and was there when she needed her help.
I commend James, because considering being related to these bigots, he stood up for Addison and was there for Tatum and Reece.
Eliza Anne did an amazing job bringing real life events into a story. It was well written! The POVs were on point. And the knowledge to have to be James in this story, is perfetto 🤌🏽
Thank you Eliza Anne for creating this ✨️ This can truly help so many!
This brought so many feelings to the surface ... However, they were all welcomed.
This book molded resilience, determination, knowledge, self-awareness ... and so many other words to describe most of the characters in this story. This book also brought narcissm, irresponsibility, masochist, cowardness, etc., to describe other characters in this story. They were perefect!
I commend Tatum, for putting her daughter first. I am also grateful that she realized she needed to put herself first before thinking of others.
I commend Addison, because she was the most selfless character here. Not only was she going through her own, but she was there to give Tatum a shoulder, and was there when she needed her help.
I commend James, because considering being related to these bigots, he stood up for Addison and was there for Tatum and Reece.
Eliza Anne did an amazing job bringing real life events into a story. It was well written! The POVs were on point. And the knowledge to have to be James in this story, is perfetto 🤌🏽
Thank you Eliza Anne for creating this ✨️ This can truly help so many!
May 18, 2023
WOW! Just wow, Eliza did a phenomenal job writing about issues and problems people have everywhere everyday.
Tatum, I know you, I was you. There were some spots I had to stop for a moment and breath and some places I had got literal goosebumps.
I adore James and Addison relationship, Addison is a true best friend to Tatum. The characters are so strong in their own ways.
I’m so glad I got the chance to read this amazing book.
Tatum, I know you, I was you. There were some spots I had to stop for a moment and breath and some places I had got literal goosebumps.
I adore James and Addison relationship, Addison is a true best friend to Tatum. The characters are so strong in their own ways.
I’m so glad I got the chance to read this amazing book.
May 13, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Wow!! Just wow 👀 I'm seriously at a loss of words! This book will bring you on a roller coaster worth of emotions. Your heart strings will be pulled in so many directions, too.
Tatum has my whole heart, and I just want to wrap her up in my arms!
When your past doesn't allow you to break free from that trauma, & thinking you've finally hit a turning point, just to realize you're basically still living in your past - what would you do? How would you handle that?
🔥 There are some triggers in this book that may not be suitable for all readers, so be sure to check those ahead of time!
Wow!! Just wow 👀 I'm seriously at a loss of words! This book will bring you on a roller coaster worth of emotions. Your heart strings will be pulled in so many directions, too.
Tatum has my whole heart, and I just want to wrap her up in my arms!
When your past doesn't allow you to break free from that trauma, & thinking you've finally hit a turning point, just to realize you're basically still living in your past - what would you do? How would you handle that?
🔥 There are some triggers in this book that may not be suitable for all readers, so be sure to check those ahead of time!
May 18, 2023
The ending of this book absolutely wrecked me 😭
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 8, 2023
This book. Oh my god!!! I have not weeped this much ever. Check TW and read. I loved it so much
February 5, 2025
The Echoist
By: Eliza Anne
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
I am going to do my best to not give spoilers, but my feelings may do it, so you have been warned.
•
•
•
This freaking book y’all. This book made me want to jump inside the pages and do things that would put me in jail to the piece of sh*t MMC. His parents are also second in line, but I digress.
Eliza Anne does an amazing job at writing a story that nobody wants to talk about, domestic violence. She clearly describes and showcases the cycle and brings to light echoism which a lot of people do not know about. This book is not the perfect love story, at all, but instead is a story of growth, courage, and strength. The writing is so realistic it makes you feel everything that is going on and is being felt (or should be being felt) by the characters in each chapter.
As someone who used to work with a lot of people in domestic violent relationships, I can not EMPHASIZE enough how well the author does at making sure that all the aspects of domestic violence are discussed. The good, the bad, and the ugly. This book is not lighthearted by any means, and is not one that I normally read and review, but this book. This freaking book needs to be read, discussed, and shared, because I know that ONE person could read it and resonate it with it so much that it could be the turning point in their lives.
I know that everyone will have their own thoughts on this book, just like every book which is fine, but I do challenge everyone to read this book. Go in with an open mind but considering that there will be difficult scenes in this book that will make you want to scream, cry, empathize, and love (most) of the characters that are involved.
Thank you Eliza Anne for writing a story that not many have done in the way you have. You are going to help at least one person be… free.
By: Eliza Anne
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
I am going to do my best to not give spoilers, but my feelings may do it, so you have been warned.
•
•
•
This freaking book y’all. This book made me want to jump inside the pages and do things that would put me in jail to the piece of sh*t MMC. His parents are also second in line, but I digress.
Eliza Anne does an amazing job at writing a story that nobody wants to talk about, domestic violence. She clearly describes and showcases the cycle and brings to light echoism which a lot of people do not know about. This book is not the perfect love story, at all, but instead is a story of growth, courage, and strength. The writing is so realistic it makes you feel everything that is going on and is being felt (or should be being felt) by the characters in each chapter.
As someone who used to work with a lot of people in domestic violent relationships, I can not EMPHASIZE enough how well the author does at making sure that all the aspects of domestic violence are discussed. The good, the bad, and the ugly. This book is not lighthearted by any means, and is not one that I normally read and review, but this book. This freaking book needs to be read, discussed, and shared, because I know that ONE person could read it and resonate it with it so much that it could be the turning point in their lives.
I know that everyone will have their own thoughts on this book, just like every book which is fine, but I do challenge everyone to read this book. Go in with an open mind but considering that there will be difficult scenes in this book that will make you want to scream, cry, empathize, and love (most) of the characters that are involved.
Thank you Eliza Anne for writing a story that not many have done in the way you have. You are going to help at least one person be… free.
October 13, 2023
Beautifully Tragic
Where do I even begin? 😭
I’ve known of this book’s existence since before it’s release, but it’s one of those books I have to prepare myself for before reading. I recently read Seventeen Minutes, also by Eliza that is a novel that coincides with The Echoist. After reading that I felt better prepare for this.
You see, this has heavy topics, topics of trauma, of ab*se, of addiction. All of which I’ve seen in close family members and friends. I’ve been that little girl trying to stand up for her Mom. And while I felt like I had dealt with the impact of that, in moments of this book I was transported back. While it still pains me and makes me overcome with emotion, books like this give me hope. If it can just give one person courage to get out, or get help, or anything of value then that’s a completely incredible thing.
To my dear Eliza. Your words hit hard, in the best of ways. You write with purpose and of value. There’s so much realism and rawness. Like how was this your debut? You beautiful little soul, you’ve broken me and given me hope. Don’t ever stop writing in what you believe in, and what motivates you, because you were made for this. But please when you send copies of your book send those pouches of tissue because all I have right now is fast food restaurants napkins and they’re not doing the job.
Please read this book, cry if you need to but also help be the change. Reach out to those that may need it. Be supportive and present. Give to local charities of DV if you’re able to. This books is without a doubt too 5 read of this year for me and I’ve read over 150.
Thank you again Eliza, you have a way with words that sing us a song, whether that song is happy for tragic. Keeping singing, and I’ll be over here crying. 😉
Where do I even begin? 😭
I’ve known of this book’s existence since before it’s release, but it’s one of those books I have to prepare myself for before reading. I recently read Seventeen Minutes, also by Eliza that is a novel that coincides with The Echoist. After reading that I felt better prepare for this.
You see, this has heavy topics, topics of trauma, of ab*se, of addiction. All of which I’ve seen in close family members and friends. I’ve been that little girl trying to stand up for her Mom. And while I felt like I had dealt with the impact of that, in moments of this book I was transported back. While it still pains me and makes me overcome with emotion, books like this give me hope. If it can just give one person courage to get out, or get help, or anything of value then that’s a completely incredible thing.
To my dear Eliza. Your words hit hard, in the best of ways. You write with purpose and of value. There’s so much realism and rawness. Like how was this your debut? You beautiful little soul, you’ve broken me and given me hope. Don’t ever stop writing in what you believe in, and what motivates you, because you were made for this. But please when you send copies of your book send those pouches of tissue because all I have right now is fast food restaurants napkins and they’re not doing the job.
Please read this book, cry if you need to but also help be the change. Reach out to those that may need it. Be supportive and present. Give to local charities of DV if you’re able to. This books is without a doubt too 5 read of this year for me and I’ve read over 150.
Thank you again Eliza, you have a way with words that sing us a song, whether that song is happy for tragic. Keeping singing, and I’ll be over here crying. 😉
May 24, 2023
When Tatum married Bryce straight out of college, she never thought the loving and charismatic man she fell in love with had a side to him that she had not yet discovered. In fact, no one would have expected him to have a violent streak at all but after years and years of his family's name always covering up his mistakes, Bryce has no real understanding of accountability.
A couple of years later, while raising their daughter and being a stay at home mom and wife, Tatum finds herself stuck in a marriage that invalidates her, berates her and physically and mentally hurts her. Being offered no help, she is always asked why this or that is not done. When Bryce has a bad day at work, he turns to alcohol.
While staying in her marriage is something she strives to do for her daughter, the anxiety from her childhood with an abusive father who hurt her mother constantly resurfaces and Tatum has to make a choice. She needs to decide if it's really best to stay with Bryce for Reese's sake or if history is repeating itself and she is willing to let Reese witness the disfunction just because she wasn't strong enough to leave.
Mt thoughts:
Eliza Anne, this story! Gosh I still don't even know what to say after all our conversations! You have written a book that is so raw and so real and it's scary and monstrous and it's tragic and it's truth. But it's also hope and it's also beauty and perseverance and strength. I loved Tatum's character, I loved James and Addie and even though we all hate and will hate Bryce, I loved that his character was real. He was a true monster and there was no excusing that. The story is gripping and heartbreaking and the ending still has me sniffling away tears!
A couple of years later, while raising their daughter and being a stay at home mom and wife, Tatum finds herself stuck in a marriage that invalidates her, berates her and physically and mentally hurts her. Being offered no help, she is always asked why this or that is not done. When Bryce has a bad day at work, he turns to alcohol.
While staying in her marriage is something she strives to do for her daughter, the anxiety from her childhood with an abusive father who hurt her mother constantly resurfaces and Tatum has to make a choice. She needs to decide if it's really best to stay with Bryce for Reese's sake or if history is repeating itself and she is willing to let Reese witness the disfunction just because she wasn't strong enough to leave.
Mt thoughts:
Eliza Anne, this story! Gosh I still don't even know what to say after all our conversations! You have written a book that is so raw and so real and it's scary and monstrous and it's tragic and it's truth. But it's also hope and it's also beauty and perseverance and strength. I loved Tatum's character, I loved James and Addie and even though we all hate and will hate Bryce, I loved that his character was real. He was a true monster and there was no excusing that. The story is gripping and heartbreaking and the ending still has me sniffling away tears!
May 30, 2023
This book took me through such a roller coaster of emotions! It was raw and heartbreaking, but also one I just couldn’t put down! The writing was phenomenal…and I was sad when it was over. The characters were wonderfully written, with me being Tatum’s cheerleader the whole time. Just cannot give enough kudos to the author for this masterpiece!
September 25, 2023
I’m torn between 4 and 5 stars, only because it’s hard to place myself in this situation. I’ve never been in an abusive situation like this so I know I can’t 100% understand. I’d like to think I wouldn’t have put up with it at all, but also realize there are certain reasons for people who do. I think the book was written pretty well, and if I could give it 4.5 I would!
June 2, 2023
Eliza Anne! Wow! I had the absolute pleasure to be an ARC reader for this amazing debut author! — Are you ever truly free in life? This book is a roller coaster of emotions. There’s no fantasy about it. Eliza Anne has written about problems that many people go through. I was not expecting such an emotional ride, I knew it would be one but that much of one! This book is well written, emotional, it captivates you from the beginning. It’s like being sucked into a black hole. Once you’re done with it, you can’t help but sit there in wonder and a range of emotions. The amount of tears I shed throughout this whole book was insane. She covers many topics lots of people wouldn’t dare to go over. It covers DUIs, abusive behavior and relationships, and so much more. This book is honestly worth the read. Just have your tissues ready. A quote from the book, “An echoist is described as the opposite of a narcissist.”
June 29, 2023
I enjoyed this book. It caused me to have flashbacks. But it was eye opening at the same time. I believe it’s beautifully written.
May 17, 2023
I received this book as an ARC - thank you Eliza!
Please check the trigger warnings before reading this book.
Such an incredible read. Once I started I could not put it down. This book took me on an emotional rollercoaster.
Tatum’s story is incredibly heartbreaking, eye opening and sadly the reality for so many women. I loved Addie and James. I felt each character was written so perfectly.
Please check the trigger warnings before reading this book.
Such an incredible read. Once I started I could not put it down. This book took me on an emotional rollercoaster.
Tatum’s story is incredibly heartbreaking, eye opening and sadly the reality for so many women. I loved Addie and James. I felt each character was written so perfectly.
June 22, 2023
Beautifully written. Flawless job changing between the different characters point of view, everything flowed. It's unbelievable what humans choose to (or are forced to) endure at the hands of others. It's even more unbelievable the evil that lies within some. Very raw, very real, and unfortunately, very relateable to some. My heart was beating out of my chest.
June 9, 2023
The Echoist is a beautifully written piece of contemporary fiction that delves into the topic of domestic abuse. In addition to writing about emotional and physical abuse, the book also touches on child abuse. This is not a lighthearted book, or an easy read. Please be sure to read the triggers beforehand.
"Echoism is the opposite of narcissism. While a narcissistic person is very self-centered and always acts in their best interests, an echoist is someone who may often put others' needs before their own."
The book centers around Tatum and Bryce Campbell. The two met in school, fell in love, got married, and started a family. As happens, life and people change over time. Now, when Bryce is frustrated or stressed, he becomes aggressive. Alcohol exacerbates his behaviour. He takes it out on Tatum. It started small, with negative comments, but over time it builds. Emotional abuse became physical abuse.
Tatum's father was abusive; she swore that she would never let her daughter experience what she experienced as a child. But living it is different than seeing it; she makes excuses and often blames herself. She becomes adept at hiding her bruises. She tells herself that her priority is ensuring her daughter's safety.
Bryce always apologizes, even when he doesn't think he did anything wrong. He showers her with gifts to try to make things right. Tatum accepts the gifts, hoping things will change, but she feels trapped. She lives in a small town that is essentially owned by her in-laws, and the entire town is pro-Bryce. He can do no wrong in others' eyes, especially his parents. She is a stay at home mom with no source of income. She is fairly isolated but does have one great friend.
Addison Foster is Tatum's best friend. She also happens to be married to James, Bryce's cousin, which complicates matters in Tatum's eyes. After a particularly violent altercation, Tatum finally calls on Addison for support, but she's not ready to do more about it. Tatum doesn't admit that her husband is the cause of her injuries, and doesn't report him. Addison, while frustrated and disappointed in her friend, sticks by her. Addison cares for Tatum dearly and check in on her often. She supports her as much as Tatum will allow. Ultimately though, it will be up to Tatum to stop the cycle of violence and abuse.
There's a lot more to this book, including Addison and James' story, which I haven't addressed at all here, and Tatum's journey through therapy.
As a reader who has never experienced domestic violence personally, I can say that it was both eye opening and frustrating to try to put myself in that situation, without judgement. I could relate a lot more to Addison's POV as she was outside, trying to be the supportive friend, while she was dealing with her own demons.
While the author states that this is a work of fiction, it is all too real. There are too many people out there living through this situation, and afraid to speak up or get help. No one ever has the right to harm you - not physically, not mentally, not emotionally. It is not your fault. It will never be your fault.
The entire book is heartbreaking but I would highly encourage you to read it. This is a topic that needs further discussion. We need to make anyone and everyone feel safe to speak up without fear of judgement. Kudos to Eliza Anne for helping to start the dialogue.
"Echoism is the opposite of narcissism. While a narcissistic person is very self-centered and always acts in their best interests, an echoist is someone who may often put others' needs before their own."
The book centers around Tatum and Bryce Campbell. The two met in school, fell in love, got married, and started a family. As happens, life and people change over time. Now, when Bryce is frustrated or stressed, he becomes aggressive. Alcohol exacerbates his behaviour. He takes it out on Tatum. It started small, with negative comments, but over time it builds. Emotional abuse became physical abuse.
Tatum's father was abusive; she swore that she would never let her daughter experience what she experienced as a child. But living it is different than seeing it; she makes excuses and often blames herself. She becomes adept at hiding her bruises. She tells herself that her priority is ensuring her daughter's safety.
Bryce always apologizes, even when he doesn't think he did anything wrong. He showers her with gifts to try to make things right. Tatum accepts the gifts, hoping things will change, but she feels trapped. She lives in a small town that is essentially owned by her in-laws, and the entire town is pro-Bryce. He can do no wrong in others' eyes, especially his parents. She is a stay at home mom with no source of income. She is fairly isolated but does have one great friend.
Addison Foster is Tatum's best friend. She also happens to be married to James, Bryce's cousin, which complicates matters in Tatum's eyes. After a particularly violent altercation, Tatum finally calls on Addison for support, but she's not ready to do more about it. Tatum doesn't admit that her husband is the cause of her injuries, and doesn't report him. Addison, while frustrated and disappointed in her friend, sticks by her. Addison cares for Tatum dearly and check in on her often. She supports her as much as Tatum will allow. Ultimately though, it will be up to Tatum to stop the cycle of violence and abuse.
There's a lot more to this book, including Addison and James' story, which I haven't addressed at all here, and Tatum's journey through therapy.
As a reader who has never experienced domestic violence personally, I can say that it was both eye opening and frustrating to try to put myself in that situation, without judgement. I could relate a lot more to Addison's POV as she was outside, trying to be the supportive friend, while she was dealing with her own demons.
While the author states that this is a work of fiction, it is all too real. There are too many people out there living through this situation, and afraid to speak up or get help. No one ever has the right to harm you - not physically, not mentally, not emotionally. It is not your fault. It will never be your fault.
The entire book is heartbreaking but I would highly encourage you to read it. This is a topic that needs further discussion. We need to make anyone and everyone feel safe to speak up without fear of judgement. Kudos to Eliza Anne for helping to start the dialogue.
June 1, 2023
The Echoist is drowning me in it's vast, dark, deep, depth. Reading the pages of this novel was like removing bandages of regrets, should-have-beens, makeup-covered scars, and thousands of scattered tears.
The story of Tatum is sadly all too familiar of a woman in this instance carrying around traumatic experiences in her past and how at times, they can lead to future decisions without even a blink. Tatum's character is bright; she has vitality, and is strong as the female lead, but she is severely emotionally damaged. Eliza Anne beautifully captivates her torture and her strength, encapsulating a crying child in the shell of a grenade.
Mulitple points of view narrate you through The Echoist. Tatum's world unfurls in the vision of a few people close to her, such as her best friend, husband, and psychologist. This novel also includes her vision as well, which I can best describe as seeing 'neon in the dark'. What I mean by that is not seeing your true value or how you undervalue your source of spirit light.
I personally had to take a breather from the book twice because of the content. It is not an easy read for those who have been through emotional trauma/physical trauma because Eliza Anne ensnares you in the scenario so well you want nothing more to help Tatum or yourself escape and break free. The writing in this novel puts you there, in the room, holding your breath, awaiting your bodies response.
The story overall, is all too familiar, eye-opening, and still to this day makes me want to be a better man in the future --as I am newly engaged (5/27/23) Thinking of it, I would highly recommend this novel to any human getting in a longterm relationship for your own sense of freedom in your own relationship.
I am a person who reads my trigger warnings. I let the current take me over and then step out if I need a break. It's cathartic for me to view another's perspective and cross-compare my own. This book helped the child in me that held the burning coal and the future husband who plans to live with integrity.
Be the Light you wish to see in the World.
The Echoist Trigger Warnings:
Domestic Violence
Non-Consent
Mentions of Child Abuse
Mature Adult Language
Sexual Content
June 9, 2023
The Echoist by Eliza Anne
A beautiful yet heartwrenching story
5⭐ 1🌶
Where do I even begin my review for this book!? For a book that isn't in my typical reading genre and clear trigger warnings I was hesitant on due to my personal past, I cannot say enough good about it. Eliza has a voice in her storytelling that spoke to me on such a personal level, it was beautiful, heartwrenching and took me on a ride I didn't know I needed to go on.
The Echoist is the story of Tatum, a woman, mother and friend in an abusive marriage and her journey of figuring out how to overcome her past so she can better herself as a woman, mother and wife. Told in 3 shifting POVs between Tatum, her husband Bryce and her best friend and cousin by marriage Addison, we learn about how each person is dealing with the abuse Tatum is enduring and how it effects their lives and relationships with each other.
I could write paragraph after paragraph about this book, but I am keeping it short and sweet to avoid spoilers. This is a very character driven story, making it difficult to say too much without ruining a beautifully written book. We meet many important characters, most playing a strong role that pushed Tatum to try and become a better person. Reece, Tatum and Bryce's daughter is a beautiful 5 year old that is the center of Tatum's world, which I understood and related too on an epicleve. I adored Addison and how deeply dedicated she supported Tatum thru everything she could. I found the 'in-laws' Tatum and Addison shared kind of annoying and petty, but loved that they became close by their mutual feelings of annoyance towards them. James, Bryce's cousin and Addison's husband is passionate and deep man who loves his wife unconditionally (and I will absolutely be reading their novella). And finally Bryce I found to be repulsive, arrogant and a true narcissist. But together, these characters made a story that will break your heart, start to repair it, maybe give you a little hope just to rip it out again, tear it in pieces and tape it together with some cheap scotch tape.
As a mother who has been in Tatum's shoes, this book was a difficult but also eye opening story. It's yet another five star read of 2023 for me, but more than that it's a book that will forever stay with me. One I will constantly recommend. One that healed me in a way I didn't realize I hadn't healed. I am so glad I pushed thru this book at it's difficult spots. If you decide to read this, please PLEASE check and listen to these TW, especially if you have been in similar situations.
Thank you to Eliza Anne and Bound By Mischief author services for providing me an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
A beautiful yet heartwrenching story
5⭐ 1🌶
Where do I even begin my review for this book!? For a book that isn't in my typical reading genre and clear trigger warnings I was hesitant on due to my personal past, I cannot say enough good about it. Eliza has a voice in her storytelling that spoke to me on such a personal level, it was beautiful, heartwrenching and took me on a ride I didn't know I needed to go on.
The Echoist is the story of Tatum, a woman, mother and friend in an abusive marriage and her journey of figuring out how to overcome her past so she can better herself as a woman, mother and wife. Told in 3 shifting POVs between Tatum, her husband Bryce and her best friend and cousin by marriage Addison, we learn about how each person is dealing with the abuse Tatum is enduring and how it effects their lives and relationships with each other.
I could write paragraph after paragraph about this book, but I am keeping it short and sweet to avoid spoilers. This is a very character driven story, making it difficult to say too much without ruining a beautifully written book. We meet many important characters, most playing a strong role that pushed Tatum to try and become a better person. Reece, Tatum and Bryce's daughter is a beautiful 5 year old that is the center of Tatum's world, which I understood and related too on an epicleve. I adored Addison and how deeply dedicated she supported Tatum thru everything she could. I found the 'in-laws' Tatum and Addison shared kind of annoying and petty, but loved that they became close by their mutual feelings of annoyance towards them. James, Bryce's cousin and Addison's husband is passionate and deep man who loves his wife unconditionally (and I will absolutely be reading their novella). And finally Bryce I found to be repulsive, arrogant and a true narcissist. But together, these characters made a story that will break your heart, start to repair it, maybe give you a little hope just to rip it out again, tear it in pieces and tape it together with some cheap scotch tape.
As a mother who has been in Tatum's shoes, this book was a difficult but also eye opening story. It's yet another five star read of 2023 for me, but more than that it's a book that will forever stay with me. One I will constantly recommend. One that healed me in a way I didn't realize I hadn't healed. I am so glad I pushed thru this book at it's difficult spots. If you decide to read this, please PLEASE check and listen to these TW, especially if you have been in similar situations.
Thank you to Eliza Anne and Bound By Mischief author services for providing me an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
June 1, 2023
📚ARC REVIEW📚
The Echoist by Eliza Anne
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spice level: 🌶️/3
Genres: fiction
Tropes: psychological fiction, multi-pov, hidden lives, childhood trauma
Tatum struggles in her marriage and life and the hands of her alcoholic husband, Bryce. He is emotionally manipulative and narcissistic when sober, and abusive while drunk. She is dealing with the aftermath of her own childhood trauma, but isn’t able to see the parallels between her own abusive relationship and the one her mother suffered in.
Meanwhile, her cousin-in-law and best friend, Addison, is also dealing with the lasting trauma of being abused as a child. Her husband, however (as opposed to Tatum’s) is supporting and loving; he is actually a therapist as well. He is able to give her solid advice and support on how to deal with her trauma in a healthy way.
As the story progresses, the level of abuse that Tatum suffers transitions from verbal jabs to physical ones and she realizes she can’t go on like this.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This was definitely a very interesting read. It gives a unique peek behind the curtain of an abusive relationship. The progression of abuse and the way Tatum tried to justify it was so sad. The way Tatum’s husband gaslights her and emotionally manipulates her is heartbreaking, but definitely relatable for anyone who has been in an abusive relationship before. Definitely check out the content warnings before reading.
It’s interesting to see the parallels between Tatum and Addison, who both suffered and witnessed similar types of abuse as children but ended up with husbands who are complete opposites. Addison’s husband recognized her trauma and supported her recovery, while Tatum’s husband continued the cycle of abuse.
The ending was super gripping and suspenseful, I could actually feel my heart rate accelerate while reading. My only issue is that the beginning of the story (maybe even the first 50-60%) felt a little slow and dragged a bit. Still a thrilling read overall though.
The Echoist by Eliza Anne
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spice level: 🌶️/3
Genres: fiction
Tropes: psychological fiction, multi-pov, hidden lives, childhood trauma
Tatum struggles in her marriage and life and the hands of her alcoholic husband, Bryce. He is emotionally manipulative and narcissistic when sober, and abusive while drunk. She is dealing with the aftermath of her own childhood trauma, but isn’t able to see the parallels between her own abusive relationship and the one her mother suffered in.
Meanwhile, her cousin-in-law and best friend, Addison, is also dealing with the lasting trauma of being abused as a child. Her husband, however (as opposed to Tatum’s) is supporting and loving; he is actually a therapist as well. He is able to give her solid advice and support on how to deal with her trauma in a healthy way.
As the story progresses, the level of abuse that Tatum suffers transitions from verbal jabs to physical ones and she realizes she can’t go on like this.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This was definitely a very interesting read. It gives a unique peek behind the curtain of an abusive relationship. The progression of abuse and the way Tatum tried to justify it was so sad. The way Tatum’s husband gaslights her and emotionally manipulates her is heartbreaking, but definitely relatable for anyone who has been in an abusive relationship before. Definitely check out the content warnings before reading.
It’s interesting to see the parallels between Tatum and Addison, who both suffered and witnessed similar types of abuse as children but ended up with husbands who are complete opposites. Addison’s husband recognized her trauma and supported her recovery, while Tatum’s husband continued the cycle of abuse.
The ending was super gripping and suspenseful, I could actually feel my heart rate accelerate while reading. My only issue is that the beginning of the story (maybe even the first 50-60%) felt a little slow and dragged a bit. Still a thrilling read overall though.
August 17, 2023
The Echoist tells the story of Tatum and Bryce, through their POVs and Tatum’s friend Addison. We met Bryce in 2014, when he and Tatum first met and he’s making plans for their future. We then get flashed to 2017, to Bryce and Tatum’s wedding, told through Addison’s point of view. We meet her doting, loving husband, James, who,is also Bryce’s cousin. We also meet James and Bryce’s parents, and we see how they all interact.
We then get Tatum’s pov in present day and get to see the first inklings on how Bryce treats her. He presents himself to the world very differently than he treats the women in his family. His parents have always bailed him out and let things get swept under the rug. And Tatum starts doing the same, by dismissing his actions as “not as bad as they could be.”
We find out pretty quickly how these two marriages differ. James and Addison are pretty obsessed with each other (in a good way), and Bryce is not a great husband at all.
Both Addie and Tatum are plagued by dreams in their subconscious. James is a psychiatrist and dream interpreter, and he works on healing his wife of all her trauma. Bryce…only adds to Tatum’s trauma by becoming new trauma for her to endure.
Addison is a constantly supportive friend to Tatum, and encourages her to seek help for the things Bryce does to her. Bryce is an alcohol and mean drunk, but has never faced consequences for any actions.
Every time I thought Bryce couldn’t get worse, he went and got worse.
Eventually things came to a head between the four of them, and nobody was left unscarred.
This book had me all in my feelings. I cried so much at the end of chapter 21. It was very well written, and it is the debut novel from Eliza Anne. I swear, it’s been a while since a book made me feel this many emotions. I love this book!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
We then get Tatum’s pov in present day and get to see the first inklings on how Bryce treats her. He presents himself to the world very differently than he treats the women in his family. His parents have always bailed him out and let things get swept under the rug. And Tatum starts doing the same, by dismissing his actions as “not as bad as they could be.”
We find out pretty quickly how these two marriages differ. James and Addison are pretty obsessed with each other (in a good way), and Bryce is not a great husband at all.
Both Addie and Tatum are plagued by dreams in their subconscious. James is a psychiatrist and dream interpreter, and he works on healing his wife of all her trauma. Bryce…only adds to Tatum’s trauma by becoming new trauma for her to endure.
Addison is a constantly supportive friend to Tatum, and encourages her to seek help for the things Bryce does to her. Bryce is an alcohol and mean drunk, but has never faced consequences for any actions.
Every time I thought Bryce couldn’t get worse, he went and got worse.
Eventually things came to a head between the four of them, and nobody was left unscarred.
This book had me all in my feelings. I cried so much at the end of chapter 21. It was very well written, and it is the debut novel from Eliza Anne. I swear, it’s been a while since a book made me feel this many emotions. I love this book!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
June 3, 2023
I received The Echoist as an Advance Reader Copy. My review is voluntary.
Eliza Anne’s The Echoist should be nominated as a modern classic fiction. We meet four people in form of two married couples, Tatum and Bryce and Addison and James. We see their relationships and their family dynamics with in laws. TW include domestic abuse/violence, family trauma, and alcoholism.
We are given three POVs of Tatum, Bryce, and Addison. The plot and themes within this novel are so crucial as it depicts a relatively accurate count of what it is like as a survivor. It also highlights how an abusive and alcoholic man thinks when it comes to materialism, justification, denial of responsibility, victim blaming, ownership of one’s partner, and placing priority of his own needs to the point of invalidating his wife. This being said, all abusers (not just “men”) tend to think like Bryce. Also, having money and/or a good public reputation can make it worse. Unfortunately for Tatum, Bryce has those qualities as well.
The novel also accurately shows how it is to be dealing with PTSD while also being a support system to someone who is currently going through domestic abuse. Not being healed and needing to support someone is just as awful.
Eliza’s writing is poignant and written in a tragically beautiful way. I wish I could give 6 stars instead of five.
*If you, or someone you know is going through domestic abuse/violence, please seek help and know it isn’t your fault.
**Domestic abuse doesn’t play favorites and is not mutually exclusive to CIS men/women/heterosexual relationships.
Eliza Anne’s The Echoist should be nominated as a modern classic fiction. We meet four people in form of two married couples, Tatum and Bryce and Addison and James. We see their relationships and their family dynamics with in laws. TW include domestic abuse/violence, family trauma, and alcoholism.
We are given three POVs of Tatum, Bryce, and Addison. The plot and themes within this novel are so crucial as it depicts a relatively accurate count of what it is like as a survivor. It also highlights how an abusive and alcoholic man thinks when it comes to materialism, justification, denial of responsibility, victim blaming, ownership of one’s partner, and placing priority of his own needs to the point of invalidating his wife. This being said, all abusers (not just “men”) tend to think like Bryce. Also, having money and/or a good public reputation can make it worse. Unfortunately for Tatum, Bryce has those qualities as well.
The novel also accurately shows how it is to be dealing with PTSD while also being a support system to someone who is currently going through domestic abuse. Not being healed and needing to support someone is just as awful.
Eliza’s writing is poignant and written in a tragically beautiful way. I wish I could give 6 stars instead of five.
*If you, or someone you know is going through domestic abuse/violence, please seek help and know it isn’t your fault.
**Domestic abuse doesn’t play favorites and is not mutually exclusive to CIS men/women/heterosexual relationships.
May 22, 2023
Rating: ⭐️ 3.75/5
This was a lovely read. I really liked how the author gave different perspectives on the topic of abuse.
The highlight of the book is that it alternates between the perspective of the Tatum and Bryce. To my surprise I felt sympathy towards Bryce as his frustration was relayed to us.
I also thought it was interesting how Bryce felt his needs were not validated and so in his frustration he raised his hand. Tatum felt that Bryce wasn’t meeting her needs and expectations and responded in (sometimes unnecessary) ways that triggered a negative response from him.
Don’t get me wrong, it is never justifiable to abuse another. Bryce’s perspective just gave me something to think about. I’ve never seen this approach used before which was super refreshing.
I do think the author could have explored Bryce’s perspective a little more, it would have given the book more body. The conclusion of the book was a little flat for me considering the journey we’d been taken on.
Overall, the book was insightful, from the story of Narcissus and Echo and the possible benefit of dream interpretation.
This was a lovely read. I really liked how the author gave different perspectives on the topic of abuse.
The highlight of the book is that it alternates between the perspective of the Tatum and Bryce. To my surprise I felt sympathy towards Bryce as his frustration was relayed to us.
I also thought it was interesting how Bryce felt his needs were not validated and so in his frustration he raised his hand. Tatum felt that Bryce wasn’t meeting her needs and expectations and responded in (sometimes unnecessary) ways that triggered a negative response from him.
Don’t get me wrong, it is never justifiable to abuse another. Bryce’s perspective just gave me something to think about. I’ve never seen this approach used before which was super refreshing.
I do think the author could have explored Bryce’s perspective a little more, it would have given the book more body. The conclusion of the book was a little flat for me considering the journey we’d been taken on.
Overall, the book was insightful, from the story of Narcissus and Echo and the possible benefit of dream interpretation.
September 22, 2024
Eliza Anne was not afraid to tackle the darkest parts of the human experience. If you are looking for a book that is real and raw, look no further than “The Echoist”.
Eliza’s ability to describe a scene in a way so vivid that it feels as if you’re sitting with the characters is second to none. I’m not often someone who gets pulled into books the way that I did this one. You would never know this is her debut novel upon reading. Her shear talent for putting thought to page in evident through every chapter. This book will pull you in and entice you to keep reading, and also break your heart and realize the cruelty this world has to offer, all at the same time. Addressing such an uncomfortable, yet so prevalent of an epidemic of emotional and physical manipulation by a narcissist can’t be easy. However, you’d never think there was a moment of hesitation or second thought in her writing.
This book is about your friend, your mother, your sister, or maybe even you. I won’t include any spoilers here, but please read the triggers before delving into this book. Books like this are so important to exist and I commend Eliza’s bravery in taking on this beast.
Eliza’s ability to describe a scene in a way so vivid that it feels as if you’re sitting with the characters is second to none. I’m not often someone who gets pulled into books the way that I did this one. You would never know this is her debut novel upon reading. Her shear talent for putting thought to page in evident through every chapter. This book will pull you in and entice you to keep reading, and also break your heart and realize the cruelty this world has to offer, all at the same time. Addressing such an uncomfortable, yet so prevalent of an epidemic of emotional and physical manipulation by a narcissist can’t be easy. However, you’d never think there was a moment of hesitation or second thought in her writing.
This book is about your friend, your mother, your sister, or maybe even you. I won’t include any spoilers here, but please read the triggers before delving into this book. Books like this are so important to exist and I commend Eliza’s bravery in taking on this beast.
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