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Altered Perceptions: A Psychological Thriller
These are indeed troubling times. Studies over the past few years clearly illustrate the deep-seated divides and increasingly stark disagreements between us – this includes the economy, racial justice/injustices, law enforcement, climate change, international engagement, core “American” values, and a long list of other issues which we fear may lead to lasting harm to our democracy. “Altered Perceptions” delves into these issues contemporaneously.
Although American exceptionalism preceded the coronavirus outbreak, the COVID-19 pandemic further revealed just how pervasive the divide in American society is at this time, with most of the country believing that we are more ideologically divided now than before the outbreak. Disagreements relating to scientific trust, COVID vaccinations, mask-wearing, contract tracing, fake news, truth vs. opinion, and public and policy response to the crisis has surely changed our lives in many important ways.
But the United States is hardly the only country wrestling with deepening social fissures, which include not just politics and policies, but also cultural conflicts/adaptations, economic anxieties, and the rise in populist parties – creating intensified and common strains in our global economy and interconnectedness of world values and opportunities. The polarizing pressures of race/religion ideologies, the rhetoric of moral outrage, partisan media, societal tensions, power inequities/imbalances, long-standing cultural/historical divides, and social media alienation and a breakdown of trust appear to be worsening across the globe – and the solutions have eluded us.
Altered Perceptions is ultimately a love story, with an LGBTQ+ bent, but it is also a reflection of our universal and familial divisions. It is a story of the love between a father, Dr. Joseph Ferretti, and his son, Alex, who struggles with his own demons and longs to find acceptance from his father – both of whom are affectively and politically divided. The issues that divide this father and son are likely the same issues that divide our own families, our country and our worldview – and it is clear that Dr. Ferretti and his son live in “separate worlds.”
Although American exceptionalism preceded the coronavirus outbreak, the COVID-19 pandemic further revealed just how pervasive the divide in American society is at this time, with most of the country believing that we are more ideologically divided now than before the outbreak. Disagreements relating to scientific trust, COVID vaccinations, mask-wearing, contract tracing, fake news, truth vs. opinion, and public and policy response to the crisis has surely changed our lives in many important ways.
But the United States is hardly the only country wrestling with deepening social fissures, which include not just politics and policies, but also cultural conflicts/adaptations, economic anxieties, and the rise in populist parties – creating intensified and common strains in our global economy and interconnectedness of world values and opportunities. The polarizing pressures of race/religion ideologies, the rhetoric of moral outrage, partisan media, societal tensions, power inequities/imbalances, long-standing cultural/historical divides, and social media alienation and a breakdown of trust appear to be worsening across the globe – and the solutions have eluded us.
Altered Perceptions is ultimately a love story, with an LGBTQ+ bent, but it is also a reflection of our universal and familial divisions. It is a story of the love between a father, Dr. Joseph Ferretti, and his son, Alex, who struggles with his own demons and longs to find acceptance from his father – both of whom are affectively and politically divided. The issues that divide this father and son are likely the same issues that divide our own families, our country and our worldview – and it is clear that Dr. Ferretti and his son live in “separate worlds.”
230 pages, Paperback
Published August 6, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
July 14, 2026
Altered Perceptions is a compelling and emotionally resonant psychological thriller that explores the complexities of modern society through an intimate and deeply human story. Dr. Wayne C. Dees skillfully combines psychological suspense with contemporary social issues, creating a novel that is intellectually engaging, emotionally powerful, and strikingly relevant.
One of the novel's greatest strengths is its willingness to confront the ideological and emotional divisions that shape modern life. Rather than presenting these conflicts in simplistic terms, the story examines how political beliefs, cultural differences, personal experiences, and generational perspectives influence relationships within families and communities. This thoughtful approach gives the novel both authenticity and lasting significance.
At the heart of the story is the profoundly moving relationship between Dr. Joseph Ferretti and his son, Alex. Their emotional distance, differing worldviews, and shared desire for understanding create a narrative that is as heartbreaking as it is hopeful. The father and son dynamic provides the emotional foundation upon which the larger psychological and social themes unfold with remarkable depth.
Particularly impressive is the way the novel explores identity, acceptance, forgiveness, and reconciliation. Alex's personal journey toward self acceptance and his longing for his father's understanding are portrayed with sensitivity and emotional honesty. These themes elevate the novel beyond conventional psychological suspense, transforming it into a thoughtful examination of love, family, and the challenges of bridging deeply rooted divisions.
The psychological tension develops naturally throughout the narrative, drawing readers into a story where perception, emotion, and reality continually intersect. Every conversation, conflict, and revelation contributes to an atmosphere of uncertainty that keeps readers engaged while encouraging meaningful reflection on the world beyond the page.
Dr. Wayne C. Dees writes with clarity, compassion, and confidence. His ability to weave contemporary social concerns into a compelling fictional narrative demonstrates both literary skill and emotional intelligence. The balance between suspense, character development, and social commentary creates a novel that is both entertaining and thought provoking.
Insightful, emotionally rich, and exceptionally timely, Altered Perceptions is a remarkable psychological thriller that explores the power of empathy, understanding, and human connection in an increasingly divided world. It is a memorable novel that will resonate with readers who appreciate intelligent fiction that combines suspense with meaningful emotional and societal themes.
One of the novel's greatest strengths is its willingness to confront the ideological and emotional divisions that shape modern life. Rather than presenting these conflicts in simplistic terms, the story examines how political beliefs, cultural differences, personal experiences, and generational perspectives influence relationships within families and communities. This thoughtful approach gives the novel both authenticity and lasting significance.
At the heart of the story is the profoundly moving relationship between Dr. Joseph Ferretti and his son, Alex. Their emotional distance, differing worldviews, and shared desire for understanding create a narrative that is as heartbreaking as it is hopeful. The father and son dynamic provides the emotional foundation upon which the larger psychological and social themes unfold with remarkable depth.
Particularly impressive is the way the novel explores identity, acceptance, forgiveness, and reconciliation. Alex's personal journey toward self acceptance and his longing for his father's understanding are portrayed with sensitivity and emotional honesty. These themes elevate the novel beyond conventional psychological suspense, transforming it into a thoughtful examination of love, family, and the challenges of bridging deeply rooted divisions.
The psychological tension develops naturally throughout the narrative, drawing readers into a story where perception, emotion, and reality continually intersect. Every conversation, conflict, and revelation contributes to an atmosphere of uncertainty that keeps readers engaged while encouraging meaningful reflection on the world beyond the page.
Dr. Wayne C. Dees writes with clarity, compassion, and confidence. His ability to weave contemporary social concerns into a compelling fictional narrative demonstrates both literary skill and emotional intelligence. The balance between suspense, character development, and social commentary creates a novel that is both entertaining and thought provoking.
Insightful, emotionally rich, and exceptionally timely, Altered Perceptions is a remarkable psychological thriller that explores the power of empathy, understanding, and human connection in an increasingly divided world. It is a memorable novel that will resonate with readers who appreciate intelligent fiction that combines suspense with meaningful emotional and societal themes.
April 27, 2026
A Unique Thriller With Real Emotional Depth
Many thrillers focus only on action or twists, but this book offers something deeper. Dr. Wayne C. Dees gives readers suspense while also exploring love, identity, and family conflict. The emotional struggle between Joseph and Alex adds a layer of realism that makes the story memorable. I appreciated how the characters felt human, flawed, and believable. Their disagreements reflect the kinds of divisions many families experience today. That emotional truth makes the thriller elements even stronger. This is the kind of book that stays with you after you finish because it combines tension with heart. Highly recommended for readers who enjoy thoughtful fiction.
Many thrillers focus only on action or twists, but this book offers something deeper. Dr. Wayne C. Dees gives readers suspense while also exploring love, identity, and family conflict. The emotional struggle between Joseph and Alex adds a layer of realism that makes the story memorable. I appreciated how the characters felt human, flawed, and believable. Their disagreements reflect the kinds of divisions many families experience today. That emotional truth makes the thriller elements even stronger. This is the kind of book that stays with you after you finish because it combines tension with heart. Highly recommended for readers who enjoy thoughtful fiction.
April 28, 2026
A Powerful Exploration of Family, Conflict, and Love
What struck me most about this book is the emotional core between the father and son. Their relationship feels incredibly real, especially in how they struggle to connect despite deep differences. The author captures the pain of misunderstanding within families in a way that resonates strongly. It’s not just about conflict—it’s about longing, acceptance, and love. This emotional depth elevates the story beyond a typical thriller. Readers who appreciate character-driven stories will find this particularly compelling and relatable.
What struck me most about this book is the emotional core between the father and son. Their relationship feels incredibly real, especially in how they struggle to connect despite deep differences. The author captures the pain of misunderstanding within families in a way that resonates strongly. It’s not just about conflict—it’s about longing, acceptance, and love. This emotional depth elevates the story beyond a typical thriller. Readers who appreciate character-driven stories will find this particularly compelling and relatable.
April 28, 2026
Timely Themes That Feel Authentic and Relevant
The themes explored in this novel are incredibly timely, touching on issues like public trust, misinformation, and societal division. What I liked most is how naturally these elements are integrated into the story without feeling preachy. Instead, they enhance the tension and realism of the narrative. It made me reflect on how these issues play out in real life, which added another layer of engagement. This is a book that not only entertains but also encourages thoughtful reflection long after finishing.
The themes explored in this novel are incredibly timely, touching on issues like public trust, misinformation, and societal division. What I liked most is how naturally these elements are integrated into the story without feeling preachy. Instead, they enhance the tension and realism of the narrative. It made me reflect on how these issues play out in real life, which added another layer of engagement. This is a book that not only entertains but also encourages thoughtful reflection long after finishing.
April 28, 2026
An Engaging Blend of Suspense and Social Commentary
This book does an excellent job of blending suspense with meaningful social insight. The pacing keeps you turning pages, but it’s the underlying themes that truly leave an impact. I found myself equally invested in the unfolding drama and the broader message about human connection and division. It’s a smart, well-written story that doesn’t underestimate its readers. If you’re looking for a thriller with substance, this is definitely worth picking up.
This book does an excellent job of blending suspense with meaningful social insight. The pacing keeps you turning pages, but it’s the underlying themes that truly leave an impact. I found myself equally invested in the unfolding drama and the broader message about human connection and division. It’s a smart, well-written story that doesn’t underestimate its readers. If you’re looking for a thriller with substance, this is definitely worth picking up.
April 28, 2026
Complex Characters That Feel Real and Relatable
The characters in this story are layered and believable, especially the central relationship between Dr. Ferretti and Alex. Their emotional struggles and differences are portrayed with nuance, making them feel like real people rather than fictional constructs. I appreciated how the author avoided simple answers, instead presenting complex human experiences. This added depth made the story much more engaging and memorable. It’s a great example of character-driven storytelling done right.
The characters in this story are layered and believable, especially the central relationship between Dr. Ferretti and Alex. Their emotional struggles and differences are portrayed with nuance, making them feel like real people rather than fictional constructs. I appreciated how the author avoided simple answers, instead presenting complex human experiences. This added depth made the story much more engaging and memorable. It’s a great example of character-driven storytelling done right.
April 28, 2026
Thoughtful LGBTQ+ Representation
I appreciated that this book includes LGBTQ+ themes as part of a larger emotional and family-centered story. It feels integrated rather than forced, and it adds depth to the themes of identity and acceptance. The author approaches these topics with seriousness and humanity. Representation matters, and it is encouraging to see it included within a suspenseful and intelligent thriller. Readers seeking meaningful, character-driven fiction will find much to admire here.
I appreciated that this book includes LGBTQ+ themes as part of a larger emotional and family-centered story. It feels integrated rather than forced, and it adds depth to the themes of identity and acceptance. The author approaches these topics with seriousness and humanity. Representation matters, and it is encouraging to see it included within a suspenseful and intelligent thriller. Readers seeking meaningful, character-driven fiction will find much to admire here.
April 28, 2026
A Unique Take on the Psychological Thriller Genre
This isn’t your typical psychological thriller filled with predictable twists. Instead, it takes a more introspective approach, focusing on emotional and societal tensions. That uniqueness is what makes it stand out. The story builds tension through relationships and ideas, rather than just action, which I found refreshing. It’s a thoughtful and original contribution to the genre that will appeal to readers looking for something different.
This isn’t your typical psychological thriller filled with predictable twists. Instead, it takes a more introspective approach, focusing on emotional and societal tensions. That uniqueness is what makes it stand out. The story builds tension through relationships and ideas, rather than just action, which I found refreshing. It’s a thoughtful and original contribution to the genre that will appeal to readers looking for something different.
April 28, 2026
Emotionally Resonant and Deeply Human Storytelling
One of the strongest aspects of this book is its emotional resonance. The struggles faced by the characters feel genuine and relatable, especially in today’s divided world. The author does an excellent job of showing how large societal issues can impact personal relationships. This connection between the personal and the global makes the story feel both intimate and expansive. It’s a deeply human narrative that stays with you.
One of the strongest aspects of this book is its emotional resonance. The struggles faced by the characters feel genuine and relatable, especially in today’s divided world. The author does an excellent job of showing how large societal issues can impact personal relationships. This connection between the personal and the global makes the story feel both intimate and expansive. It’s a deeply human narrative that stays with you.
April 28, 2026
A Story That Challenges Perspectives Without Preaching
I appreciated how the book presents complex issues without trying to force a single viewpoint. Instead, it allows readers to engage with the material and draw their own conclusions. This balanced approach makes the story more impactful and respectful of different perspectives. It’s a rare quality that adds to the book’s appeal and credibility. Readers who value thoughtful storytelling will find this especially rewarding.
I appreciated how the book presents complex issues without trying to force a single viewpoint. Instead, it allows readers to engage with the material and draw their own conclusions. This balanced approach makes the story more impactful and respectful of different perspectives. It’s a rare quality that adds to the book’s appeal and credibility. Readers who value thoughtful storytelling will find this especially rewarding.
April 28, 2026
Strong Writing That Keeps You Engaged Throughout
The writing style is clear, engaging, and thoughtful, making it easy to stay immersed in the story. The author balances descriptive passages with dialogue and introspection effectively, creating a smooth reading experience. I never felt lost or overwhelmed, even when dealing with complex themes. This accessibility makes the book appealing to a wide range of readers. It’s well-crafted and consistently engaging from start to finish.
The writing style is clear, engaging, and thoughtful, making it easy to stay immersed in the story. The author balances descriptive passages with dialogue and introspection effectively, creating a smooth reading experience. I never felt lost or overwhelmed, even when dealing with complex themes. This accessibility makes the book appealing to a wide range of readers. It’s well-crafted and consistently engaging from start to finish.
April 28, 2026
A Meaningful LGBTQ+ Love Story Within a Broader Narrative
I really appreciated how the book incorporates an LGBTQ+ element into the story in a natural and meaningful way. It’s not treated as a side note but as an integral part of the emotional journey. This adds depth and representation without overshadowing the broader themes. The balance is handled with care and authenticity, making the story more inclusive and impactful. It’s a thoughtful addition that enhances the overall narrative.
I really appreciated how the book incorporates an LGBTQ+ element into the story in a natural and meaningful way. It’s not treated as a side note but as an integral part of the emotional journey. This adds depth and representation without overshadowing the broader themes. The balance is handled with care and authenticity, making the story more inclusive and impactful. It’s a thoughtful addition that enhances the overall narrative.
April 28, 2026
A Story That Stays With You After the Final Page
This is one of those books that lingers in your mind even after you’ve finished reading. The themes, characters, and emotional moments continue to resonate, prompting reflection long after the story ends. I found myself thinking about the relationships and ideas presented, which is always a sign of a meaningful read. It’s not just entertaining—it’s memorable in a lasting way.
This is one of those books that lingers in your mind even after you’ve finished reading. The themes, characters, and emotional moments continue to resonate, prompting reflection long after the story ends. I found myself thinking about the relationships and ideas presented, which is always a sign of a meaningful read. It’s not just entertaining—it’s memorable in a lasting way.
April 28, 2026
Insightful Exploration of Truth and Perception
The title truly reflects the core of the story, as it explores how perception shapes reality. The book delves into the blurred lines between truth, opinion, and belief in a way that feels very relevant today. I found this aspect particularly engaging, as it added intellectual depth to the narrative. It’s a thought-provoking exploration that complements the emotional and suspenseful elements of the story.
The title truly reflects the core of the story, as it explores how perception shapes reality. The book delves into the blurred lines between truth, opinion, and belief in a way that feels very relevant today. I found this aspect particularly engaging, as it added intellectual depth to the narrative. It’s a thought-provoking exploration that complements the emotional and suspenseful elements of the story.
April 28, 2026
Balanced Storytelling With Depth and Accessibility
What impressed me most is how the author manages to tackle complex issues while keeping the story accessible. It doesn’t feel overly heavy or difficult to follow, yet it still offers depth and substance. This balance makes it suitable for a wide audience, from casual readers to those looking for something more meaningful. It’s a well-rounded book that delivers on multiple levels.
What impressed me most is how the author manages to tackle complex issues while keeping the story accessible. It doesn’t feel overly heavy or difficult to follow, yet it still offers depth and substance. This balance makes it suitable for a wide audience, from casual readers to those looking for something more meaningful. It’s a well-rounded book that delivers on multiple levels.
April 29, 2026
A Highly Recommended Read for Thoughtful Thriller Fans
Overall, this is a strong and impactful read that I would highly recommend to fans of psychological thrillers who want something more than just suspense. It offers emotional depth, relevant themes, and engaging storytelling in equal measure. The combination of personal and societal exploration makes it stand out in a crowded genre. If you’re looking for a book that entertains while also making you think, this is definitely worth your time.
Overall, this is a strong and impactful read that I would highly recommend to fans of psychological thrillers who want something more than just suspense. It offers emotional depth, relevant themes, and engaging storytelling in equal measure. The combination of personal and societal exploration makes it stand out in a crowded genre. If you’re looking for a book that entertains while also making you think, this is definitely worth your time.
April 28, 2026
More Than Entertainment
Some books entertain for a few hours and are quickly forgotten. Altered Perceptions aims higher. It uses suspense to explore how people drift apart and how hard it can be to reconnect. Those ideas gave the story weight and relevance. I enjoyed the thriller side, but I valued the reflection it inspired even more. This is a book with something to say.
Some books entertain for a few hours and are quickly forgotten. Altered Perceptions aims higher. It uses suspense to explore how people drift apart and how hard it can be to reconnect. Those ideas gave the story weight and relevance. I enjoyed the thriller side, but I valued the reflection it inspired even more. This is a book with something to say.
February 6, 2026
Altered Perceptions is a meaningful and impactful exploration of modern division and human connection.
February 6, 2026
This novel stands as a powerful reflection of our divided times, told through an intimate and emotionally resonant family story
February 6, 2026
Altered perceptions captures the emotional cost of polarization while offering hope through human connection.
Want to Read
February 6, 2026This book masterfully blends psychological tension with emotional depth. The father-son relationship at its core is both heartbreaking and hopeful.
February 6, 2026
A powerful and timely novel that confronts division while honoring love, family, and human connection.
February 6, 2026
Altered Perceptions blends psychological insight with heartfelt storytelling, creating a novel that is both gripping and reflective.
February 6, 2026
This novel offers a compassionate and nuanced look at how beliefs shape relationships and identity.
February 6, 2026
Wayne C. does craft a powerful narrative that examines belief, identity, and belonging with sensitivity
February 6, 2026
This book offers a compassionate and nuanced portrayal of modern division, anchored by a deeply moving father-son relationship.
Currently Reading
February 6, 2026Altered Perceptions captures the emotional cost of division with sensitivity and insight. The characters feel real and deeply human.
February 6, 2026
A deeply moving novel that explores love, belief, and acceptance with honesty and compassion.
February 6, 2026
A thoughtful and emotionally resonant novel that explores how deeply held beliefs can both divide and define us.
February 6, 2026
Dees handles complex social and emotional themes with grace, creating a story that feels authentic, timely, and deeply personal.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews