Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Past Lives Denied

Rate this book
We have debts that must be paid. If we have not paid out these debts, then we must take them into another life.
Brian Weiss, author of Many Lives, Many Masters

Professor Caitlyn Morrys, an outspoken and passionate teacher at a small college, finds herself at the center of a political fight over academic freedom and teacher tenure. The drama intensifies when the school President, Caitlyn’s chief antagonist, is found stabbed to death in his office.

Acting chief inspector Cormac Robertson, a staunch proponent of past lives regression, is convinced that the way to solve the murder is through excavation of Caityln’s past lives via hypnotism.

When under his spell, Caitlyn reveals numerous details about her past, providing insight into historical connections and clues about criminal motives. The information allows the detective to identify the primary suspect who, he realizes, is en route to finish off Caitlyn to avenge a past lives betrayal.

239 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 21, 2024

48 people are currently reading
2520 people want to read

About the author

Ellenmorris Tiegerman

5 books7 followers
Dr. Ellenmorris Tiegerman is the Executive Director of Tiegerman School and a Professor Emeritus at the Derner Institute for Advanced Psychology Studies at Adelphi University. As the founder of Tiegerman School, Dr. Tiegerman is responsible for the creation and the development of the preschool, school age and integrated programs within the School.

In 1994, Dr. Tiegerman served on Governor Pataki’s Transition Team for Education. She was appointed in 1995 by means of an Assembly appointment to the 21st Century Schools Committee. In 1996, Dr. Tiegerman was appointed by means of a gubernatorial recommendation to the New York State Early Intervention Coordinating Council. Most recently, Dr. Tiegerman served as Chairperson of the Parent Involvement Committee.

Dr. Tiegerman has served on the faculty of several Universities in the New York Metropolitan area. She has functioned as the Director of the Adelphi University Speech and Hearing Center as well as being the Founding Director of the Adelphi University Preschool Language Stimulation Program.

Dr. Tiegerman holds a Ph.D. from the City University of New York. She also has Masters degrees in: Speech Language Pathology (M.S. and M.Phil.), Special Education (M.S.) and Social Work (MSW). She has extensive experience in the areas of child language development and disorders. She has been involved in many research projects and is the author of textbooks in the areas of language disorders, early intervention, parent language training and childhood autism. Dr. Tiegerman’s area of clinical expertise is autism spectrum disorders.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
11 (26%)
4 stars
14 (34%)
3 stars
10 (24%)
2 stars
3 (7%)
1 star
3 (7%)
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
Profile Image for Sonja Charters.
2,728 reviews139 followers
June 10, 2024
As you may know, I'm obsessed with anything to do with the way people work and psychology as a whole.
I'm no academic, but love to read fiction that focusses on and around this subject.

So, I was totally intrigued by the whole concept of this storyline and couldn't wait to dive in.

I did, however, struggle to follow this throughout.
The underlying storyline of the murder and the investigation surrounding this was well written and had me totally intrigued.

I loved the idea of the last life regression and how Caitlyn's dreams and therapy helped to uncover the information bit by bit.

But the middle section held a lot of academic procedures - that although integral to the story as a whole - took a lot of focus for me to keep up with.
I also had to really concentrate to keep up with the present and past lives as we followed through both timelines.
This made this middle section drag a little in pace, as I had to often pause and re-read some sections to really grasp what I'd read.

This was quite immersive though and with a great conclusion that finishes off all the threads well.

An enjoyable read - but definitely one to be wide awake for.
59 reviews3 followers
July 23, 2024
I liked that the author takes great effort in describing the body language of each of the central characters in many scenes. This not only makes it easy to visualize what is going on in a story which is otherwise void of any graphics, but also illustrates the author's background in psychology and communication, going beyond the spoken (or for that matter, written) word.

Although the book is a work of fiction, readers will be able to easily relate to plenty of the real world locations and their respective cultures which only aid in understanding the context and motive behind many of the characters and their dialogues. Knowledge of world history will also go a long way in understanding many of the events being described.

The core concepts of the book might come across as paranormal and contrary to common understanding. It may offend the views and beliefs of many people. There are also some scenes which can come across as gross. Some of the events being described might also be easy to pass off as merely being coincidences repeating themselves at an unusually frequent rate instead of happening deliberately with an unfinished purpose.

The story needs to be read sequentially. There are very few surprising twists but the heat does begin building up as the climax approaches. However, it does take its own time. Few chapters are quite short. There is also a list of reading resources given at the end. I would have liked it better if some of the characters in the story were not as dense as they appear with their dialogues and behavior.
Profile Image for Donna Thompson.
659 reviews47 followers
October 9, 2024
***I won a copy of this book through a LibraryThing Early Reviewer's Giveaway. My review is strictly voluntary.***

The premise of this book sounded extremely intriguing. Using past life regression to solve a real life murder sounded quite promising. Unfortunately, I found most of the characters to be quite unlikeable and one to be downright annoying. And the majority of the book dwelt overmuch on the inner workings and politics of a university. I think I learned more about what it takes to obtain tenure than anything else. For the majority of the book I felt like I was in one of the longest, most boring, corporate meetings I ever had to sit through during my professional career. When will this end?

I did rate the book four stars however, because it is well written and does have a unique idea. And it did have one of the most horrifying theories I think I've come across in recent times. That of the Stutts Foundation and its insidious infiltration of our institutions of higher learning and thereby our corporations and governments. That was more frightening than the mystery itself, more realistic and truly terrifying.
158 reviews4 followers
June 25, 2024
The psychological depth of academic politics

In Past Lives Denied: A Novel by Ellenmorris Tiegerman, Professor Caitlyn Morrys finds herself embroiled in the middle of academic and political turmoil at Coronado University. Her outspoken nature and role as head of the tenure committee put her at odds with the university president, Uzinski, whose politically driven agenda conflicts with her merit-based principles. The tension reaches a climax when Uzinski is murdered, turning Caitlyn's life upside down as she becomes a suspect and must navigate the treacherous waters filled with conspiracy and vendettas.

Tiegerman intertwines the murder mystery genre with Caitlyn's unique psychological struggles, particularly her experiences with past life regression. Acting chief inspector Cormac Robertson, who believes in the power of past lives to solve present problems, hypnotizes Caitlyn to uncover clues hidden in her unconscious. These sessions reveal historical connections and motives, providing a fascinating glimpse into Caitlyn's psyche and advancing the investigation. The narrative's blend of academic intrigue and psychoanalytical exploration keeps readers engaged and questioning the nature of reality and memory.

The novel's strength lies in Tiegerman's insider perspective on academic life. Caitlyn's battle against a corrupt administration and her journey through past lives create a rich, layered story that addresses contemporary issues such as cancel culture and ideological conflicts. The suspenseful plot and thought-provoking themes make the novel a compelling read for a reader who appreciates being challenged.
94 reviews4 followers
June 28, 2024
This book reminded me of when I tried past-life regression therapy, where they try to help you remember things from your past life. I gave it a try, but it didn’t work for me, so I stopped. The story starts with Professor Caitlyn Morrys, whose life is haunted by flashbacks to past lives that overlap with her current one at Coronado University. These are not just memories; they’re full-on experiences that help her make sense of her own life and the mysterious death she’s involved with.

The author uses the past-life regressions as a narrative tool to layer the mystery with statements like, "Each life was a chapter in a book I had forgotten I wrote." That not only adds to the story but also drags the reader into the psychological part of the book.

The book makes complicated past-life ideas accessible and fun by using a murder mystery to move the plot along. The university setting and politics feel real, and the story is laid out nicely from start to finish and is easy to read.

The book asks the reader to think about how history, memory, and personal experience intersect and how that affects our current selves and decisions. Caitlyn’s conversations and internal monologues make us consider how past-life memories—symbolic or literal—can affect our psychological and emotional state. It’s a mystical or spiritual view of human existence where knowing our past lives could be the key to healing and understanding our current life problems.

Past Lives Denied will appeal to many readers because it’s a psychological thriller with spiritual and philosophical questions. It’s for people who like their mystery novels to have depth and are interested in how our pasts affect our present.
42 reviews4 followers
June 30, 2024
Shaking up the classic murder

Past Lives Denied was an interesting twist on the classic murder thriller.
The undying plot of the murder investigation I truly enjoyed as I love a good mystery, but in the beginning I did struggle a little to connect with the story as it was very heavy with information.
However, it was a great story that keeps you guessing right up to the end and having the psychology of past lives explored more in depth was a nice change in a way. The concept of reincarnation is intriguing and through the story the flashbacks seem random as you read, but obviously there is a point.
As I said there were parts that just seemed to drag a little with explanations that just pull you away from the story a little. But the descriptions and flow of the book in setting the scene and fully fleshing out characters and concepts is flawless. Building the world around you and connecting the story with real life issues of conflicts making it feel much more real.
It's quite an intense read, and you do need to pay attention to fully follow it but if you like a good murder and are interested in reincarnation it's perfect.
2 reviews
July 31, 2024
As a dedicated mystery book reader, PAST LIVES DENIED is a refreshing new novel/mystery book that never stopped challenging my usual mind set for mystery reading. Would I figure out "who done it"? Would I figure out "why"? Would I recognize the "red herrings" which are there to confuse me? PAST LIVES DENIED added a new dimension to my reading and my thinking. Is it possible that the present life is simply a continuation of a past life? Do unresolved issues continue from one life to the next? Do we continue from one life to the next? This book has expanded my thinking in an unexpected and edgy way. I may not be a true believer, but now I can consider the possibility.
CR
215 reviews3 followers
June 16, 2024
Unique concept

Past Lives Denied: A Novel is a mystery with a unique twist. The author uses past lives regression to solve the case.

The book delves into the idea that souls are reincarnated over and over again to learn specific lessons. While this concept is integral to solving the mystery, the murder plot is interesting in its own sake.

If you think outside the box or just love mysteries, this will make for a unique read.
Profile Image for John Kamande.
97 reviews7 followers
July 11, 2024
Past Lives Denied by Ellenmorris Tiegerman I can say was an interesting read for me. I love how the writer has used different characters’ judgements and perceptions to create an enthralling read. At first, I thought that it would be difficult for me to get through it. But, as I continued to delve deeper, I yearned for more. The experiences of the main character in the story, Caitlyn are based on those of the author when she worked and taught students in the university. Tiegerman focuses on past life regression something I had not heard of before and so it was good to learn more about it in her book. She emphasizes that things that occur in the current world are not always as they look. Human behavior is often a reflection of relationships as well as trauma that was not dealt with in the past. Creativity is evident in the way the writer brings out the relationships and interactions of the characters vividly causing the reader to have a clear picture as though in real life. I can say that this is a book that is informative and entertaining at the same time. If you love mystery, this one is for you!
Profile Image for Sheri.
2,111 reviews
October 7, 2024
Past Lives Denied by Ellenmorris Tiegerman

Professor Caitlyn Morrys is an outspoken teacher at a small college. She is caught up in a controversy with the Schools President until he ends up dead. Found in his office stabbed to death it is an obvious homicide.

Chief inspector Cormac Robertson is in favor of a rare way to solve crimes, through hypnosis and past life experiences. He believes she committed the crime as revenge for a betrayal in past life. She agrees to this procedure.

The story moves at a fast pace, with an interesting plot , that of hypnosis and past lives. At times I was a bit confused and not quite sure what was happening. I feel if I re-read this story I may enjoy it a bit more.

Overall I found the story compelling and confusing. Although not quite for me, I feel others (who enjoy past life theory) may enjoy this story.
Profile Image for Lori Nickol.
1 review
July 28, 2024
A must read! One of the best novels I've read in a long time! Once started, I could not put the book down! A wonderful, suspenseful thriller that will keep you wanting more. Past Lives Denied takes you on a captivating journey intertwining a great mystery with the concept of past life experience and how they connect on a deeper level. Highly recommend!
4 reviews
November 16, 2025
Knowledgeable or curious about Past Lives? This is the book for you!

Ellen Morris Tiegerman's novel is a well written mystery with all of the classic elements... A shocking death, multiple suspects, suspense, a nail biting ending and romance. What sets it apart is that only Past Life Regression can solve it! Great Read! I'd highly recommend it!!!
78 reviews
January 9, 2025
Past lives

Very interesting and learning about these things.
I like to take notes and for future reference.
Awesome read and keeps you wondering.
Profile Image for Octavia.
132 reviews3 followers
July 1, 2024
What drew me to read Past Lives Denied by Ellenmorris Tiegerman was the summary. It really sold me on how the book was going to be, and I took a chance. When reading this novel, I felt like I was learning instead of being entertained like fiction stories usually do. There were moments where I had to put down the book to actually think about what I was reading. Usually, it would be easy for me to dive into a story and just let the book take me on a journey. However, it was hard to dive into this one. While I do enjoy the plot of the story, I felt the pacing was a bit slow. Other than those things that I have mentioned, this story gets really interesting at the end. I would definitely recommend this novel to anyone who likes a story that starts off slow and picks up speed at the end. I rate this novel 3 out of 5 stars.
114 reviews7 followers
June 24, 2024
Mystery Novel With An Interesting Take

Past Lives Denied by Ellenmorris Tiergerman is a mystery novel with a unique take. The story follows Professor Caitlyn Morris who uses her past lives to help solve a murder on campus.

The premise is interesting enough, with flashbacks showing seemingly random events spaced decades apart. They turn out to be Caitlyn's past lives, which she experiences as nightmares, and which she then uses to try to solve the murder.

You need to be open-minded to enjoy this book. The story focuses on past lives, a concept that suggests we are reincarnated over and over again to learn lessons we didn't learn in previous lives. Despite an interesting introduction, I struggled to read the first few chapters of the book as there was just a lot of information that could be done away with. However, if you're an academic you will find the first few chapters interesting.

I still pushed through because the idea of reincarnation is interesting to me, and the author uses it creatively in this book. Overall, it was an interesting read.
64 reviews3 followers
June 21, 2024
"Past Lives Denied" by Ellenmorris Tiegerman features Caitlyn Morris, a talented professor grappling with her tumultuous past. As the story begins, the murder of a school president plunges the university into chaos. Who killed Uzinski? What was their motive? Caitlyn, as the head of a committee overseeing professors' terms, quickly becomes a prime suspect. The novel masterfully intertwines academic politics with personal secrets, crafting Caitlyn Morris into a compelling character. The murder investigation and pervasive deception turn the campus into a hotbed of intrigue, drawing unprecedented attention. Alliances are shaken, and the disruption to university life is nothing short of chaotic. I love how the author seamlessly blends academia with a murder mystery. The novel addresses contemporary issues, highlighting how violence and discord arise from conflicting beliefs. It captures themes of power, ambition, and relationships that resonate deeply with modern society. The character selection and vivid description of the campus setting brings the story to life. Caitlyn is obsessed with solving the murder of school president but while at it rediscovers herself. The novel is one interesting read that keeps you guessing till the very end.
27 reviews1 follower
June 21, 2024
Caitlyn Morrys is a university professor who suffers from night terrors—terrors that are believed to be from a past life lived. She goes about her life as a teacher and university committee chairperson while circumnavigating around President Uzinski–the university president and bane of her existence. However, the story comes to a heads when Uzinski is found killed in his office one day. At that point, everything from earlier in the story starts coming together as the detective seeks to use past life regression to find the killers.

I’m not sure what to think of the story. The concept is definitely unique, but I believe it took too long to ramp up. There’s several chapters of exposition that I believe could have been condensed. The main story only really begins in chapter 5, which is way too long in my opinion. From there, it begins to get a bit more interesting. All in all, it’s not a bad fiction story, I just think that it could have been paced better.
Profile Image for Eloise Mohan.
230 reviews1 follower
June 3, 2024
Caitlyn is a professor of psychology at a small college who finds herself deep in the throws of a murder investigation on campus. When the school presidents lifeless body is found in his office, Caitlyn begins a journey within herself to find the motive and culprit of the crime.

This is such a unique concept for a novel, focusing heavily on academic politics and past lives. I was completely intrigued from the onset, with the descriptions of Caitlyns' vivid dreams of her previous lives.
The middle of the book did take a lot of concentration in order to understand the academic aspects and the politics of academic tenures and procedures. However, I think this gave a lot of weight to the story as a whole, and it also allowed me to get a proper feel for the tension surrounding their situation.

Robertson was a huge character of interest for me, I had to keep reading to see what he was about, as there is such an air of mystery surrounding him. I also loved following the processes of finding out the links of the characters in previous lives as well as the current timeline.

The ending of the book is written so well and wraps up the storyline nicely. I'd be intrigued to see if another novel comes from this, maybe swaying Ash away from his scepticism?! (😉)

As a psychology graduate, I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and would definitely recommend it. I now want to learn all about past life regression therapy
Profile Image for _sassy_39.
2,570 reviews156 followers
May 24, 2024
"Past Lives Denied" penned by the author Ellenmorris Tiegerman is a psychological thriller. The main character of the story is Caitlyn Morrys. She is a talented professor. Caitlyn was having recurrent flashbacks of other times and places. These flashbacks exhausted her and made her question her purpose. Ashford Connor appeared in her dreams too.

Caitlyn loves her career and is extremely ambitious. Ash and she had seen each other on and off for five years. Caitlyn had a deep and urgent need to prepare for something else but she wasn't sure. Ash doesn't believe in the past life of Caitlyn. At the university, Caitlyn leads the committee responsible for determining the tenure of professors. The committee is facing challenges from Uzinski as his plan is to bring in and tenure only professors he selects for Coronado.

When the president Uzinski was dead, there was so much chaos. Was he murdered? How would Caitlyn's be affected with the Past Life Theory? Read this psychological thriller that would keep you on the edge of your seat. The cover photo is nice and the title is suitable. The writing style of the author is nice and I am impressed with the backdrop setting. The characters are written well and I loved Caitlyn's character the most.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.