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Worry Monkey
Joel Layer believes he is battling a failing marriage and music career. He is visited by an imaginary, childhood playmate who has taken on some rather sinister traits. He realises that it is his sanity that is failing. The last chance he has to save himself and his relationship lies in the hands of an elderly school caretaker, Danya Mihailov.
Danya, a bear-like Russian, reveals a shadowy past as a defected Russian intelligence operative and uses‘not entirely’ retired contacts to lead Joel on a journey into the past through France, Canada and the USA.
Accompanied by Imran, the homosexual son of an Asian hotel magnate, the three men embark on a seemingly hopeless mission to uncover the truth behind a 1970's airline disaster, which Danya believes may hold the key to unlocking Joel's depression.
As they unveil a cover-up that could shake the very foundations of corporate America, Joel’s grasp on reality is pushed to breaking point.
When their investigations attract the attention of Gabe McAllen, a ruthless billionaire who will do anything to eliminate the threat to his financial empire, the stakes become even higher. Joel’s resolve to battle the demons within him is tested again. Finally, he is forced to realise that those same demons could set him on a path to recovery and would ultimately give him the strength to bring McAllen to his knees.
Based on actual events, Worry Monkey shows that comedy and tragedy are never far apart and that a troubled mind can be both your destroyer and your saviour depending upon how you embrace it.
Which events and occurrences in this story are true, the author leaves to your imagination.
Danya, a bear-like Russian, reveals a shadowy past as a defected Russian intelligence operative and uses‘not entirely’ retired contacts to lead Joel on a journey into the past through France, Canada and the USA.
Accompanied by Imran, the homosexual son of an Asian hotel magnate, the three men embark on a seemingly hopeless mission to uncover the truth behind a 1970's airline disaster, which Danya believes may hold the key to unlocking Joel's depression.
As they unveil a cover-up that could shake the very foundations of corporate America, Joel’s grasp on reality is pushed to breaking point.
When their investigations attract the attention of Gabe McAllen, a ruthless billionaire who will do anything to eliminate the threat to his financial empire, the stakes become even higher. Joel’s resolve to battle the demons within him is tested again. Finally, he is forced to realise that those same demons could set him on a path to recovery and would ultimately give him the strength to bring McAllen to his knees.
Based on actual events, Worry Monkey shows that comedy and tragedy are never far apart and that a troubled mind can be both your destroyer and your saviour depending upon how you embrace it.
Which events and occurrences in this story are true, the author leaves to your imagination.
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Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews
October 7, 2025
A motley crew goes on a quest to redeem the childhood trauma of a “failed artist” who got stuck in life. A modern Lord of the Ring like novel of an unlikely adventure, with evil antagonists, and unexpected triumphs. Well written and very witty
December 19, 2016
Before knowing about the existence of this book, I met its author. I must say I didn't know what to expect of it, he told me it was an easy read for example when traveling. it was indeed a quick read, I was very much get involved in the story, it's conception, development to the end. it's a funny, sad, passionate, smart book about ordinary lives turning into extraordinary. as he is not a celebrity yet, my duty to spread the word!!!
December 5, 2016
Excellent read, I was impressed. Intriguing plot that moves right along. Great natural dialogue and some very original turns of phrase. I gave it 5 stars. Thoroughly enjoyed it and looking forward to his next.Worry Monkey
October 24, 2016
Monkey business
Potentially dark material is given an interesting polish by combining a classic adventure with some mental torment and British humour. Easy reading with some interesting characters, especially Jingles!
Potentially dark material is given an interesting polish by combining a classic adventure with some mental torment and British humour. Easy reading with some interesting characters, especially Jingles!
December 2, 2016
I laughed out loud at shifting a badger. I worried about the crazy Russian. I loved the growing collection of friends. Poignant, warm and a really good read.
January 10, 2024
Wonderful book!
This story should be made into a movie. I very much enjoyed every page and had a few laugh out loud moments. The pace of the story is well balanced and my search to find writers fatigue at some point in the story failed,. The momentan is kept up right to the end and the complex presentation of childhood trauma made me think back and realize that we all have a trauma somewhere. Therefore I find this book important to those who are going through a rough spell. In the end we are all a bit like Joel, stumbling through life, tryimg to hide from difficult things and having some misfits as friends and family supporting us along the way, Spoton John! Total art appreciation. Continue writing, I want to read your next book!
This story should be made into a movie. I very much enjoyed every page and had a few laugh out loud moments. The pace of the story is well balanced and my search to find writers fatigue at some point in the story failed,. The momentan is kept up right to the end and the complex presentation of childhood trauma made me think back and realize that we all have a trauma somewhere. Therefore I find this book important to those who are going through a rough spell. In the end we are all a bit like Joel, stumbling through life, tryimg to hide from difficult things and having some misfits as friends and family supporting us along the way, Spoton John! Total art appreciation. Continue writing, I want to read your next book!
Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews