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The Nidus #3
Progeny
Dr. Cylus Pine, an experimental psychologist takes in serial criminals to rehabilitate through group therapy.
Remus enters Dr. Pines facility after exacting revenge of his abusive father. He begins his therapy with a serial killer, a mother, a bomber, and rape victim. Through the course of their therapy they discover the true effects of their crimes.The cause though is up to their interpretation of their own truth.
PROGENY is the first of six novels.
Remus enters Dr. Pines facility after exacting revenge of his abusive father. He begins his therapy with a serial killer, a mother, a bomber, and rape victim. Through the course of their therapy they discover the true effects of their crimes.The cause though is up to their interpretation of their own truth.
PROGENY is the first of six novels.
195 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 19, 2013
3 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
September 30, 2016
Warning- This book is probably not suitable for those under 18 due to explicit content and violent scenes.
This is probably the last book on earth that me, a 15-year-old, should read, but I made an exception. Through and through, 'Progeny' is a twisted tale of how the human brain works. That's the reason I picked this book. I had recently studied Freudian psychology and well, this book contains all the complex human emotions one can think of in one quick read. Although not made for the faint hearted, you can't help but sympathize with the backstories of the numerous criminals- you can't think of them as monsters. After all, they had their own reasons. But does it justify their actions? That's the big question this book makes you ponder. How much can some people be maimed that they never recover again?
I liked the psychologist, Dr Pine, a lot. He had exactly the kind of efficiency and practicality that one needs in a therapist. He didn't look down on his patients, wasn't too dogmatic in his appraisals and was quite innovative in his ways of treatment.
I think overall this book had two major plus points-
1. There was never a dull moment- either there was something sensational happening, or someone's life story was being revealed.
2. The characters were all layered and multi-dimensional. I absolutely loathe it when writers turn their characters into either polished, arrogant jerks or twisted, sick creatures with no belief in humanity. This book was so fleshed out, I could actually imagine the people- their pain, their guilt, their reasons.
'Progeny' is a very raw tale of the working of the human mind, but also how a person can be somewhat healed with love and a little bit of friendship.
This is probably the last book on earth that me, a 15-year-old, should read, but I made an exception. Through and through, 'Progeny' is a twisted tale of how the human brain works. That's the reason I picked this book. I had recently studied Freudian psychology and well, this book contains all the complex human emotions one can think of in one quick read. Although not made for the faint hearted, you can't help but sympathize with the backstories of the numerous criminals- you can't think of them as monsters. After all, they had their own reasons. But does it justify their actions? That's the big question this book makes you ponder. How much can some people be maimed that they never recover again?
I liked the psychologist, Dr Pine, a lot. He had exactly the kind of efficiency and practicality that one needs in a therapist. He didn't look down on his patients, wasn't too dogmatic in his appraisals and was quite innovative in his ways of treatment.
I think overall this book had two major plus points-
1. There was never a dull moment- either there was something sensational happening, or someone's life story was being revealed.
2. The characters were all layered and multi-dimensional. I absolutely loathe it when writers turn their characters into either polished, arrogant jerks or twisted, sick creatures with no belief in humanity. This book was so fleshed out, I could actually imagine the people- their pain, their guilt, their reasons.
'Progeny' is a very raw tale of the working of the human mind, but also how a person can be somewhat healed with love and a little bit of friendship.
April 25, 2018
If you are bothered by graphic descriptions, mental illness, and gut-wrenching details then you need to avoid this novel. Brian Harrison has crafted a story about a young man named Remus who is abused by his father after his mother leaves them. He has been abused long enough that he can recognize his father's pattern of behavior leading up to the abuse. Remus decides that murdering his father is the only way to end this abuse. At trial, he is judged insane and sent to a mental health institution where he is placed in a group with other damaged murderers. Each day they have group therapy led by Dr. Cylus Pine. The first few sessions help the group to know one another. Using a variety of techniques, Dr. Pine begins extracting each person's story.
Descriptions of each person's crime are tough to read. It feels invasive, the level of detail provided. The author relates the facts of each crime from perpetrator's viewpoint. It is necessary to put the book down and breathe deeply from time to time.
Remus' story jumps around. He remembers events of the past leading to his crime. Suddenly we are in the present. Adding to the confusion is the first and third person narrative. Given the circumstances Remus is in, reviewing his crime several times feels like trying to solve a Rubik's cube. Maybe looking at it this way will help.
This is the first book of the series and I am very curious to read the next book. As I finished this book I felt as though I was ripped away from Remus' future. There are many questions and I have no sense of completion. Brian Harrison makes you think (sometimes uncomfortably) and with this book, he leaves you needing and wanting more.
Descriptions of each person's crime are tough to read. It feels invasive, the level of detail provided. The author relates the facts of each crime from perpetrator's viewpoint. It is necessary to put the book down and breathe deeply from time to time.
Remus' story jumps around. He remembers events of the past leading to his crime. Suddenly we are in the present. Adding to the confusion is the first and third person narrative. Given the circumstances Remus is in, reviewing his crime several times feels like trying to solve a Rubik's cube. Maybe looking at it this way will help.
This is the first book of the series and I am very curious to read the next book. As I finished this book I felt as though I was ripped away from Remus' future. There are many questions and I have no sense of completion. Brian Harrison makes you think (sometimes uncomfortably) and with this book, he leaves you needing and wanting more.
December 13, 2016
This book is the third in a series but the first one released by the author purposely. The story therefore starts off in the middle, I am assuming, of a rather long tale. The main character, Remus, has killed his father and is already convicted of this when the story picks up. The method of "therapy" employed in this fictional work is a little unusual but not so much so that the reader would have a hard time believing it. While I am in the Criminal Justice field, I am in in the area this book seems to focus on and therefore hope to bring a novice perspective to this review.
The other characters in the book have likewise committed similar heinous crimes and are in the same "therapy" as Remus. The time spatial aspect of the episodes in this novel where Remus remembers his past are a little off-putting as they do not seem to relate to the storyline or add to it in any meaningful way. Other than the obvious ones regarding his sibling and parents.
Regarding the ending of the story, without including a spoiler, all I will say is it leaves this reader very confused and unsatisfied. Especially since its unclear if this is a dream or reality. The writing leaves some clarity desired and a plot which needs some work. That said perhaps what is missing is in the previous two books and this one really should not have been published first. I DID enjoy the read despite these shortcomings and would like to see this author mentored and develop his talent further.
The other characters in the book have likewise committed similar heinous crimes and are in the same "therapy" as Remus. The time spatial aspect of the episodes in this novel where Remus remembers his past are a little off-putting as they do not seem to relate to the storyline or add to it in any meaningful way. Other than the obvious ones regarding his sibling and parents.
Regarding the ending of the story, without including a spoiler, all I will say is it leaves this reader very confused and unsatisfied. Especially since its unclear if this is a dream or reality. The writing leaves some clarity desired and a plot which needs some work. That said perhaps what is missing is in the previous two books and this one really should not have been published first. I DID enjoy the read despite these shortcomings and would like to see this author mentored and develop his talent further.
October 13, 2017
I recieved a copy of this book for review by the author.
The first thing i will say is that these books are Graphic and have a lot of sexual violence in them, once you get pass that the story opens up to the reader and gives you an insight into the protagonists mind set - i really enjoyed this book, it made me think and the story was one that wound me in circles and unwound me again, there are heart palpitating moments where you are just not sure what the next step taken is going to be and there was a lot i tried to predict as a reader and just couldnt. I especially enjoyed the way Brian went around the "rehabilitation" of Remeus and how to push forward to his future he had to go through his past with a fine tooth comb. It is a gripping read if you are into Psychology and like to see how the human mind works and reaches conclusion and reasons for why some people do what they do, Honestly give this book a shot and see what you think, but i bet it will be one of those books that you will still be wrapping your minds around months after you have put it down.
The first thing i will say is that these books are Graphic and have a lot of sexual violence in them, once you get pass that the story opens up to the reader and gives you an insight into the protagonists mind set - i really enjoyed this book, it made me think and the story was one that wound me in circles and unwound me again, there are heart palpitating moments where you are just not sure what the next step taken is going to be and there was a lot i tried to predict as a reader and just couldnt. I especially enjoyed the way Brian went around the "rehabilitation" of Remeus and how to push forward to his future he had to go through his past with a fine tooth comb. It is a gripping read if you are into Psychology and like to see how the human mind works and reaches conclusion and reasons for why some people do what they do, Honestly give this book a shot and see what you think, but i bet it will be one of those books that you will still be wrapping your minds around months after you have put it down.
October 5, 2017
This book narrates the story of a group of people in a psychiatric rehabilitation center and who all have killed people. In the center of this story is the case of Remus, who killed his father who had abused him sexually, and the progress and reflections about his experiences. As the treatment, composed by group sessions every day progresses, he begins the process to understand and make peace with himself, even though it is painful.
The book is very well written, shows the internal processes and reasoning especially of Reamus to come clean with his past and move on. The characters are also well described.
The book is very well written, shows the internal processes and reasoning especially of Reamus to come clean with his past and move on. The characters are also well described.
March 16, 2017
I was immediately intrigued by the premise of "Progeny," and I was excited to experience how the story would unfold. Brian Harrison did not disappoint me at all. As the reader, I felt in tandem with Remus as he processed the tragic events of his past, reflected on what his previous life could have been, absorbed what was happening to him in the present, and discovered what his life could be. That all goes to say that reading "Progeny" was a very visceral experience. I actually valued the author's challenge to put the reader out of their comfort zone with the vivid details of the acts committed by and against Remus and his fellow group members. Harrison skillfully ensures that these vivid details don't fall into exaggeration and that Remus and his group members don't become caricatures. None of the supporting characters and their backstories feel like "filler" material, and I enjoyed discovering how they all play a part in Remus' journey. I further enjoyed the creative risks and explorations that Harrison takes in narrative structures throughout the book. In summary, I would recommend "Progeny" for anyone who enjoys having an intimate experience with a main character who is undergoing an emotional journey that is at times heartbreaking and confusing, but which remains dynamic.
June 5, 2018
I have no doubt that there is an audience for this book but it is definitely not me. Progeny is very graphic in its details of abuse, rape and murder but it was the writing style that turned me off. I have discovered through reading this that I very much like structure to the books I read. This was very flow of thought and constant switching between stories and time periods. Nothing felt real and none of it felt very believable.
November 20, 2016
First of, allow me to thank Booktasters and Brian Harrison for giving me a copy of this book. It hasn't been an easy ride, but this book can enlighten readers why people are driven to insanity for simply being human.
Progeny follows the story of a group of mentally institutionalized in the process of therapy where we are given glimpse of backstories and how they led to 'cold-blooded' murders. If you follow me on Twitter, you will know that I assumed this book is for me. It started with a child killing his father with thirteen bullets - this after enduring more than a year of sexual molestation.
Catchy, ain't it?
In all honesty, I thought that I will be finishing this up real fast because I like dark and depressing books (in all weird ways). But I didn't and I imagine it will be so for the majority due to either or both of these reasons
1.) Theme
This book contains violence, incest, torture, rape, gore (dismembering and skinning!) and bombings. If you're in this for fun, then I suggest you start to rethink your read list.
Usually, themes like these don't bother but I guess it adds a lot when the novel is more character than plot driven. The latter allows you to get distracted by the story and series of events, the former asks you to empathize with the characters' psychology and bear the brunt of their trauma and guilt.
I guess this is something that my professors back in college will enjoy dissecting. As for me, I got a copy over vacation but had the chance to open it when I was getting back to work where stress awaits me (yey!) I was seriously depressed for no reason for a lot of days so. If that isn't enough warning, well then lucky you.
2.) Writing Style
This book had shifting timelines, POVs and formats. A little-too-experimental writing will not be applauded by many.
The timeline shifts were awesomely executed. I love it when an object or conversation from the present brings a character to his past and said timeline shift brings the reader a better understanding of the present situation. The transition is always smooth. Hands down, Brian!
But the POVs were quite problematic. Mostly because it's my pet peeve and because I don't really hear a change of tone when Remus or Pine or Elissa are talking. And I'm not just talking about shifting POVs between characters. It's from a first person POV then to an omniscient narrator.
It's just really crazy.
Sometimes, Pine will tell stories to his patients about Lily but then you'll question how come he can narrate all these when he's not even there (see: one-on-one conversation between his dad and Lily).
And finally, the sudden change of format. I don't know if it's a reader problem because my app just sucks (I tried two btw) but Chapter 21 in itself is a narrative poetry. I'm really finding it hard to put a finger on what purpose this serves. And when I find things unnecessary, I get annoyed.
I think this book needs patient readers. To understand the logic behind this experimental writing style and to empathize with the characters without too much action going. Not for the mainstream audience if you ask me. 2/5 stars.
Progeny follows the story of a group of mentally institutionalized in the process of therapy where we are given glimpse of backstories and how they led to 'cold-blooded' murders. If you follow me on Twitter, you will know that I assumed this book is for me. It started with a child killing his father with thirteen bullets - this after enduring more than a year of sexual molestation.
Catchy, ain't it?
In all honesty, I thought that I will be finishing this up real fast because I like dark and depressing books (in all weird ways). But I didn't and I imagine it will be so for the majority due to either or both of these reasons
1.) Theme
This book contains violence, incest, torture, rape, gore (dismembering and skinning!) and bombings. If you're in this for fun, then I suggest you start to rethink your read list.
Usually, themes like these don't bother but I guess it adds a lot when the novel is more character than plot driven. The latter allows you to get distracted by the story and series of events, the former asks you to empathize with the characters' psychology and bear the brunt of their trauma and guilt.
I guess this is something that my professors back in college will enjoy dissecting. As for me, I got a copy over vacation but had the chance to open it when I was getting back to work where stress awaits me (yey!) I was seriously depressed for no reason for a lot of days so. If that isn't enough warning, well then lucky you.
2.) Writing Style
This book had shifting timelines, POVs and formats. A little-too-experimental writing will not be applauded by many.
The timeline shifts were awesomely executed. I love it when an object or conversation from the present brings a character to his past and said timeline shift brings the reader a better understanding of the present situation. The transition is always smooth. Hands down, Brian!
But the POVs were quite problematic. Mostly because it's my pet peeve and because I don't really hear a change of tone when Remus or Pine or Elissa are talking. And I'm not just talking about shifting POVs between characters. It's from a first person POV then to an omniscient narrator.
It's just really crazy.
Sometimes, Pine will tell stories to his patients about Lily but then you'll question how come he can narrate all these when he's not even there (see: one-on-one conversation between his dad and Lily).
And finally, the sudden change of format. I don't know if it's a reader problem because my app just sucks (I tried two btw) but Chapter 21 in itself is a narrative poetry. I'm really finding it hard to put a finger on what purpose this serves. And when I find things unnecessary, I get annoyed.
I think this book needs patient readers. To understand the logic behind this experimental writing style and to empathize with the characters without too much action going. Not for the mainstream audience if you ask me. 2/5 stars.
October 9, 2016
NB: this book was kindly sent to me by the author in exchange for an honest review (via @BookTasters)
Progeny is the story of a group of murderers, all convicted to a psychiatric hospital for the criminally insane. The focus is placed on Remus, a young boy who finds himself under Dr. Pine's therapy after shooting his abusive father.
I went into this book with high expectations. The synopsis had deeply caught my attention and it sounded right up my alley. Unfortunately, it didn't meet such expectations.
The first thing to say when describing this book is that it is graphically haunting. It is a dark, disturbing story. This was, to be honest, my favorite thing about it. It features several taboo topics, with no restraints. Very graphic rape and murder scenes come to life frequently and unexpectedly enough to make you cringe. I loved that about Progeny: the background stories of all characters are just thrown out there, no euphemisms or kid gloves. And for that reason, I would not recommend this to sensitive readers.
Throughout this novel we meet a colorful group of murderers, each of them with their own mental health issues and disquieting memories, struggling to be understood by their peers, under the somehow comforting supervision of experimental psychologist Dr. Cylus Pine. Even though we learn more and more about them as the story develops, I feel that I would have enjoyed getting a closer look at these characters. At some point we understand who they are and why they did what they did, but it came out as a bit superficial to me.
I had several problems with this story, the first one being that I did not care for the protagonist. I simply could not connect to the character of Remus. I didn’t care what happened to him next and the minor plot twists in his story were obvious to me.
I also struggled with the writing on some occasions: the recurring resort to comparisons, the occasional experimental writing that just threw me off, the sudden change from first-person to third-person narrative (which I’m still wondering if it was intentional) and the continuous flashbacks. I understand that all of this defines what this book is, but it just wasn’t for me.
Progeny is the story of a group of murderers, all convicted to a psychiatric hospital for the criminally insane. The focus is placed on Remus, a young boy who finds himself under Dr. Pine's therapy after shooting his abusive father.
I went into this book with high expectations. The synopsis had deeply caught my attention and it sounded right up my alley. Unfortunately, it didn't meet such expectations.
The first thing to say when describing this book is that it is graphically haunting. It is a dark, disturbing story. This was, to be honest, my favorite thing about it. It features several taboo topics, with no restraints. Very graphic rape and murder scenes come to life frequently and unexpectedly enough to make you cringe. I loved that about Progeny: the background stories of all characters are just thrown out there, no euphemisms or kid gloves. And for that reason, I would not recommend this to sensitive readers.
Throughout this novel we meet a colorful group of murderers, each of them with their own mental health issues and disquieting memories, struggling to be understood by their peers, under the somehow comforting supervision of experimental psychologist Dr. Cylus Pine. Even though we learn more and more about them as the story develops, I feel that I would have enjoyed getting a closer look at these characters. At some point we understand who they are and why they did what they did, but it came out as a bit superficial to me.
I had several problems with this story, the first one being that I did not care for the protagonist. I simply could not connect to the character of Remus. I didn’t care what happened to him next and the minor plot twists in his story were obvious to me.
I also struggled with the writing on some occasions: the recurring resort to comparisons, the occasional experimental writing that just threw me off, the sudden change from first-person to third-person narrative (which I’m still wondering if it was intentional) and the continuous flashbacks. I understand that all of this defines what this book is, but it just wasn’t for me.
However, the main problem I had with Progeny was that it felt like nothing happened. At some points I found myself wondering “where is this going?” It seemed to be an endless compendium of memories, without anything really happening. All the action we hear about is in the past, it’s a recollection of events. But there is nothing actually moving anywhere in the present time. And then all of a sudden it comes to a conclusion. Which brings me to another issue: the ending simply didn’t do it for me. I was expecting a mind-blowing plot twist that never came.
In summary, Progeny slightly let me down. It seemed to be a story that one could get so much out of, but it didn’t fulfill my initial anticipation. I give it 2.5/5 stars.
November 26, 2016
The book is... raw ...
Raw in every sense.
The plot got me hooked because the Pine character promised insights and creativity when it comes to dealing with the unspeakable cruelty and darkness of human nature.
The author dragged the stories of victims and culprits into the light to unfurl them to every form of moral judgement. But he teaches the reader with the developing story that there is no black and white, no final punishment and certainly no salvation. For nobody. And maybe there is no hope..... Almost certainly not for the reader.
The writer threw a buckload of horrible fates together and didn't really develop the stories and the characters over-particular. To be honest: I still don't get why the victims acted like they did. In my world their reactions weren't inevitable: I've seen similar stories with totally different conclusions and thereby decisions and following that: actions.
So I went through the book like peering into half open doors catching glimpses of half-lit rooms filled with debris, old stuff and unidentified objects. But I couldn't explore because I felt tugged to the next door. And don't get me wrong: I wasn't necessarily feeling tense expectation while learning about the history of the characters. It was more loke hoping there was going to be enlightment behind the next door. But then I had to read the train of thoughts a protagonist might have. Or watch Mr Harrison play with experimental writing...
So long review short: I would have loved to understand ONE of the characters. Putting them all together in one facility and calling that group therapy wasn't doing it for me. Each fate would have had enough content to fill one book.
And Cylus wasn't so creative after all. He bored me and I lost interest because he hadn't one original thought. And I didn't like Lilly. Sorry, but she was obsessive, possesive and uninspired. There...I said it.
So I wouldn't mind to acompany for intance Lester or Maquire to shed some light on their story. Why did his mother torture him when his grandfather was such a nice person? Why did Maquire drown her kids? Just because they took a lot from her? I don't know much and the older I get the humbler I feel. The more I learn the more questions I have. But I do understand that most people have a reason for their behaviour. This is where Mr Harrison started. Then he gives the impression of someone who got lost and entangled in the narrative strings of the fates he showed. And this is what happend after finishing this book: I got a glimpse but I'm not convinced.
Raw in every sense.
The plot got me hooked because the Pine character promised insights and creativity when it comes to dealing with the unspeakable cruelty and darkness of human nature.
The author dragged the stories of victims and culprits into the light to unfurl them to every form of moral judgement. But he teaches the reader with the developing story that there is no black and white, no final punishment and certainly no salvation. For nobody. And maybe there is no hope..... Almost certainly not for the reader.
The writer threw a buckload of horrible fates together and didn't really develop the stories and the characters over-particular. To be honest: I still don't get why the victims acted like they did. In my world their reactions weren't inevitable: I've seen similar stories with totally different conclusions and thereby decisions and following that: actions.
So I went through the book like peering into half open doors catching glimpses of half-lit rooms filled with debris, old stuff and unidentified objects. But I couldn't explore because I felt tugged to the next door. And don't get me wrong: I wasn't necessarily feeling tense expectation while learning about the history of the characters. It was more loke hoping there was going to be enlightment behind the next door. But then I had to read the train of thoughts a protagonist might have. Or watch Mr Harrison play with experimental writing...
So long review short: I would have loved to understand ONE of the characters. Putting them all together in one facility and calling that group therapy wasn't doing it for me. Each fate would have had enough content to fill one book.
And Cylus wasn't so creative after all. He bored me and I lost interest because he hadn't one original thought. And I didn't like Lilly. Sorry, but she was obsessive, possesive and uninspired. There...I said it.
So I wouldn't mind to acompany for intance Lester or Maquire to shed some light on their story. Why did his mother torture him when his grandfather was such a nice person? Why did Maquire drown her kids? Just because they took a lot from her? I don't know much and the older I get the humbler I feel. The more I learn the more questions I have. But I do understand that most people have a reason for their behaviour. This is where Mr Harrison started. Then he gives the impression of someone who got lost and entangled in the narrative strings of the fates he showed. And this is what happend after finishing this book: I got a glimpse but I'm not convinced.
October 18, 2016
*I received a copy of "Progeny" in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to @booktasters and Brian Harrison.
After looking at the teaser for "Progeny" I was immediately interested in reading this novel. This is the first and only book written by Harrison that I have read. I am a fan of books featuring: compelling characters, uncensored descriptions of the internal struggles of the human condition, and the raw and gritty realities of life behind closed doors.
"Progeny" does delivery in the brutal and descriptive manner it presents murder, rape, suicide and torture. Allowing the reader to see into a part of the dark component of what humans are capable of.
*The sensitive nature of these horrors is of course not suitable for everyone.*
I did not find any of the characters particularly compelling and the portrayal of nonspecific mental illness lacking in development. Harrison provides descriptions of the violent actions leading up to incarceration but only goes so far with the drama of the mind. This produced a less than satisfying ending and a disappointed overall feeling about the story.
Harrison's writing does hold enough promise for me to read another one of his books in an effort to truly get a fair opinion of his writing style.
After looking at the teaser for "Progeny" I was immediately interested in reading this novel. This is the first and only book written by Harrison that I have read. I am a fan of books featuring: compelling characters, uncensored descriptions of the internal struggles of the human condition, and the raw and gritty realities of life behind closed doors.
"Progeny" does delivery in the brutal and descriptive manner it presents murder, rape, suicide and torture. Allowing the reader to see into a part of the dark component of what humans are capable of.
*The sensitive nature of these horrors is of course not suitable for everyone.*
I did not find any of the characters particularly compelling and the portrayal of nonspecific mental illness lacking in development. Harrison provides descriptions of the violent actions leading up to incarceration but only goes so far with the drama of the mind. This produced a less than satisfying ending and a disappointed overall feeling about the story.
Harrison's writing does hold enough promise for me to read another one of his books in an effort to truly get a fair opinion of his writing style.
December 3, 2016
3 star / 2.5 star .. it is kind of difficult to rate some books. And Progeny is definitely the same case for me. It is not an easy read as it is dark and voilent and raw. On days I was tired or frustrated, I would not are pick this one up. but then , darkness also is needed to show that light exist too. I liked the plot and the wat the characters were introduced in the book. Dr Pine may not be too original but he did keep his hold on the patients fairly well and so on the readers too. There are crimes and there are crimes for no logic. There is a line between them and here the reader is trying to find the same. It is sort of uncharted land even with all the information and details thorwon out in open. I felt the book lacked a certain closure or in depth scrutiny of main character Remus whom I kind of felt unconnected with. The book makes you think of lot of stuff , even if you treat it as fictional. Try it if you can digest it
November 3, 2016
There were moments of beauty in "Progeny", but the text as a whole was a disappointment. At times the author was able to explain life in ways I had never considered before and with language both interesting and poetic, but I felt the plot was too weak to carry the story.
Progeny has a cast of intriguing characters, but I was confused if Remus or Cylus was the protagonist. The story could be much stronger if focused on one character and not spread so thin on the many. Each character has a disturbing history that would make for a great book on its own, but thrown together I felt like it was too much.
There are many books that fall in a similar category as "Progeny", and unfortunately I don't believe "Progeny" is able to compete.
*I received a free copy of this ebook in exchange for an honesty review.
Progeny has a cast of intriguing characters, but I was confused if Remus or Cylus was the protagonist. The story could be much stronger if focused on one character and not spread so thin on the many. Each character has a disturbing history that would make for a great book on its own, but thrown together I felt like it was too much.
There are many books that fall in a similar category as "Progeny", and unfortunately I don't believe "Progeny" is able to compete.
*I received a free copy of this ebook in exchange for an honesty review.
April 16, 2017
This book evoked one or two emotions in me; and had some good character background. The ending was a bit up in the air.
June 12, 2017
Progeny is the story of a young man who killed his father after a long period of being sexually molested by him. He's sent to a mental health facility after being found insane at the time of the murder. In the facility we meet others who have also committed murder for reasons they felt justified their actions. We also meet Dr. Pine, a therapist who is trying to work with them mostly through group therapy.
There were parts of the book that were very confusing and seemed sporadic. During one of those parts it struck me that Mr. Harrison was trying to show how things seemed inside the insane mind.
I didn't understand the point of Dr. Pine telling the story of the history of his relationship with his wife. It was a nice story, but it didn't have anything to do with the work he was trying to do. If there was a connection, I missed it.
Parts of the book were insightful and parts were just plain confusing.
I was given a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review through Booktasters.
There were parts of the book that were very confusing and seemed sporadic. During one of those parts it struck me that Mr. Harrison was trying to show how things seemed inside the insane mind.
I didn't understand the point of Dr. Pine telling the story of the history of his relationship with his wife. It was a nice story, but it didn't have anything to do with the work he was trying to do. If there was a connection, I missed it.
Parts of the book were insightful and parts were just plain confusing.
I was given a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review through Booktasters.
May 6, 2018
Progeny follows the sad story of Remus: a boy who after suffering years of sexual abuse from his father commits murder to end his own suffering. After being convicted of murdering his father Remus is sent to a psychic facility. During his time in "treatment" Remus is rehabilitated by Dr Pines - who himself seems to have his own set of psychological issues. Group therapy is rounded out with a serial killer, a mother, a bomber, and rape victim...all of who committed murder, prior to being committed to the mental facility.
The details of each group members crime and their suffering that drove them to commit the atrocities are at times difficult to read.
Through the rehabilitation Dr Pines also frees some of his issues, talking at length about his youth and meeting his wife.
The end of the story finds Remus "rehabilitated" and released from the psychiatric facility, only to be pulled back to his previous inner demons.
A hard look at a stylised psychological facility and that being rehabilitated can mean not being any closer to "sanity".
The details of each group members crime and their suffering that drove them to commit the atrocities are at times difficult to read.
Through the rehabilitation Dr Pines also frees some of his issues, talking at length about his youth and meeting his wife.
The end of the story finds Remus "rehabilitated" and released from the psychiatric facility, only to be pulled back to his previous inner demons.
A hard look at a stylised psychological facility and that being rehabilitated can mean not being any closer to "sanity".
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