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Under The Overpass
UNDER THE OVERPASS is a tale of collective madness. A fast-paced narrative set in a dismal and stark environment where a group of hard core drug addicts, chronic alcoholics, and worn-out prostitutes survive each day by panhandling and sly manipulation. Many of the homeless characters suffer from mental disorders that range from crippling depression to schizophrenia. Incest, revenge, and murder add a sordid dimension to the story which will shock the reader.This disturbing tale is suffused with vulgar street language, contrasted against religion and dishonest hope for the few homeless camp members who believe their twisted lies of redemption. It is a journey towards an unforgettable ending of a group of strangers, brought together in a cruel and inescapable fate.UNDER THE OVERPASS is a work of fiction, based on fact, as witnessed by this author. The names of the cast have been changed, but the people were real. I lived among them and I am lucky to have escaped with my life.J. E. Muzaurieta
227 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 19, 2020
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Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews
April 22, 2021
Dark and gripping material
The author has a natural talent for writing with much of the prose showing an appreciation of life on the street. The author does a good job of showing the dystopian nightmare within a group of homeless individuals who are battling mental health and substance abuse disorders. At time's the material was a little too dark for me yet I appreciated the writer's attempts to show the humanity within the community. The main characters of Ryan, Lori and Doc were particularly sympathetic.
The author has a natural talent for writing with much of the prose showing an appreciation of life on the street. The author does a good job of showing the dystopian nightmare within a group of homeless individuals who are battling mental health and substance abuse disorders. At time's the material was a little too dark for me yet I appreciated the writer's attempts to show the humanity within the community. The main characters of Ryan, Lori and Doc were particularly sympathetic.
October 28, 2022
Gritty, Profound, and Heartbreaking…
Under the Overpass by J.E. Muzaurieta Sr. Is truly a unique journey into the lives of people society turns a blind eye to. Every character written within the pages feels real, and connections and sympathy soon build inside. Some characters you love, hate, or pity. Almost all of the characters are special and have some redeeming qualities. The people discussed in the book suffer from many issues. The common one usually being homelessness. However, Muzaurieta adds many layers to the canvas showing many aspects of addiction, violence, and mental health issues.
First, let’s just get it out of the way. The cover for Under the Overpass is pretty rough, and does not convey the message of the story within. This is a book you really have to look past this aspect. Out of everything the book is about, the compelling nature of the tale, and the realistic grip is completely lost on the cover. There! Now onto some greener pastures.
Muzaurieta tackles many tough societal issues. The homelessness portrayed really rang true from what I have personally witnessed, and from volunteering at homeless shelters and hearing their stories. There is a lot of violence in the novel, but it is not nonsensical violence. The violence usually surrounds the characters’ basic needs, wants, and desires. A few cans, some spare change, or a fix. Many of the people will fight for these meager items. There is also violence in both the drug segments, and a young girl with Schizophrenia that the story follows exhibits both violence, self harm, and rape.
From what I have studied in psychology I felt that Muzaurieta did his homework on metal disorders and addictions. Although schizophrenia is portrayed deeply. Such as, a patient going through rape, domestic violence, revenge, and a patient going off of their medication causing all kinds of health issues. Which really happens! A patient will “feel better”, and think that they don’t need medication anymore. This is ultimately false and many horrible side effects from withdrawal, psychotic breaks, or even death can occur. Even characters without specific disorders stated it is apparent especially at the main homeless camp that Muzaurieta paints nicely.
The life at the homeless camp was particularly heart wrenching. There is so much death, debauchery, and rules and rituals at the camp. Muzaurieta even goes into the ritual of a camp members’ death, and how and what they do to dispose of the body. The camp is where the homeless and downtrodden call home, and all of their major possessions are either carried on persons or dwells at their designated place at the cardboard and duct tape camp. Many sufferers of different disorders self medicate with their own poison. Some characters could fit the DSM V criteria for bipolar, borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, and many more behavioral disorders. They are present if you only reflect.
I have to honestly say this was one of my favorite reads of 2022, and one of the most profound independent author books I have ever read. Brandy, my wife, and I finished this book on the ninth of September 2022. That is how much of an impact this story has! As with all things life related I cannot simply condense all of the societal problems that are embodied in the text.
All in all, I must give Under the Overpass by J.E. Muzaurieta Sr. five out of five stars! I almost deducted a star due to the cover, but I refrained because it is expensive being an independent author. Cover fixes, or updates, happen a lot! All in all, this is a must read for many book lovers! I’ve thought long and hard about what genre Under the Overpass could be described as. The best I can ascertain is Under the Overpass is a contemporary fiction novel with the following sub-genres: urban fiction, street literature, and crime. There are many triggers for many people so I do want to forewarn those who are interested. Until next time, my friends.
Written by Andy C. on 10/27/2022
Under the Overpass by J.E. Muzaurieta Sr. Is truly a unique journey into the lives of people society turns a blind eye to. Every character written within the pages feels real, and connections and sympathy soon build inside. Some characters you love, hate, or pity. Almost all of the characters are special and have some redeeming qualities. The people discussed in the book suffer from many issues. The common one usually being homelessness. However, Muzaurieta adds many layers to the canvas showing many aspects of addiction, violence, and mental health issues.
First, let’s just get it out of the way. The cover for Under the Overpass is pretty rough, and does not convey the message of the story within. This is a book you really have to look past this aspect. Out of everything the book is about, the compelling nature of the tale, and the realistic grip is completely lost on the cover. There! Now onto some greener pastures.
Muzaurieta tackles many tough societal issues. The homelessness portrayed really rang true from what I have personally witnessed, and from volunteering at homeless shelters and hearing their stories. There is a lot of violence in the novel, but it is not nonsensical violence. The violence usually surrounds the characters’ basic needs, wants, and desires. A few cans, some spare change, or a fix. Many of the people will fight for these meager items. There is also violence in both the drug segments, and a young girl with Schizophrenia that the story follows exhibits both violence, self harm, and rape.
From what I have studied in psychology I felt that Muzaurieta did his homework on metal disorders and addictions. Although schizophrenia is portrayed deeply. Such as, a patient going through rape, domestic violence, revenge, and a patient going off of their medication causing all kinds of health issues. Which really happens! A patient will “feel better”, and think that they don’t need medication anymore. This is ultimately false and many horrible side effects from withdrawal, psychotic breaks, or even death can occur. Even characters without specific disorders stated it is apparent especially at the main homeless camp that Muzaurieta paints nicely.
The life at the homeless camp was particularly heart wrenching. There is so much death, debauchery, and rules and rituals at the camp. Muzaurieta even goes into the ritual of a camp members’ death, and how and what they do to dispose of the body. The camp is where the homeless and downtrodden call home, and all of their major possessions are either carried on persons or dwells at their designated place at the cardboard and duct tape camp. Many sufferers of different disorders self medicate with their own poison. Some characters could fit the DSM V criteria for bipolar, borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, and many more behavioral disorders. They are present if you only reflect.
I have to honestly say this was one of my favorite reads of 2022, and one of the most profound independent author books I have ever read. Brandy, my wife, and I finished this book on the ninth of September 2022. That is how much of an impact this story has! As with all things life related I cannot simply condense all of the societal problems that are embodied in the text.
All in all, I must give Under the Overpass by J.E. Muzaurieta Sr. five out of five stars! I almost deducted a star due to the cover, but I refrained because it is expensive being an independent author. Cover fixes, or updates, happen a lot! All in all, this is a must read for many book lovers! I’ve thought long and hard about what genre Under the Overpass could be described as. The best I can ascertain is Under the Overpass is a contemporary fiction novel with the following sub-genres: urban fiction, street literature, and crime. There are many triggers for many people so I do want to forewarn those who are interested. Until next time, my friends.
Written by Andy C. on 10/27/2022
September 7, 2022
This novel is raw, gritty, and inescapable. It grabs your attention immediately and never backs off. I was embarrassingly naive to the stark daily realities of homelessness. Of course, I knew it was an issue, and I have given to charitable organizations over the years. Still, the genuinely filthy details of living on the streets escaped my understanding. After devouring this story in just a few sittings, I can honestly say that I’ve not only been schooled on what this group of characters endured constantly, but I experienced the trauma, the unsanitary conditions, the heat, the smells, the hunger, and the unquenchable need.
The author has a hauntingly beautiful eloquence and a poetic way with prose. I felt as though I experienced life and death alongside these people and endured their hardships in tandem. There are MANY trigger warnings, including but not limited to drug use/addiction, sex work, bullying, harassment, discrimination, transphobia, violence, sexual assault, foul language, and racial slurs. Please do not let this deter you from reading this story. Not only is it gripping, informative, and relevant, but it is also imperative that each person living within any bubble of privilege grasp how truly horrible conditions are for those struggling and with limited resources. ESPECIALLY for those struggling with addiction.
No other book in YEARS has captured my attention, ripped my heart out, and made me aware of my failings as a citizen all at the same time. As a nation, more needs to be done for this population. Urban clusters of homelessness are a genuine concern. Not only did this author rapturously draw me into the narrative of this complexly woven story, but he also sparked a passion for change. That is a true gift.
The characters are flawed. Many are unlikeable and hard to “look” at, but… it is through the ugly truth that we spark change. I wasn’t expecting a happily ever after, but what I got instead was so much more real.
The author has a hauntingly beautiful eloquence and a poetic way with prose. I felt as though I experienced life and death alongside these people and endured their hardships in tandem. There are MANY trigger warnings, including but not limited to drug use/addiction, sex work, bullying, harassment, discrimination, transphobia, violence, sexual assault, foul language, and racial slurs. Please do not let this deter you from reading this story. Not only is it gripping, informative, and relevant, but it is also imperative that each person living within any bubble of privilege grasp how truly horrible conditions are for those struggling and with limited resources. ESPECIALLY for those struggling with addiction.
No other book in YEARS has captured my attention, ripped my heart out, and made me aware of my failings as a citizen all at the same time. As a nation, more needs to be done for this population. Urban clusters of homelessness are a genuine concern. Not only did this author rapturously draw me into the narrative of this complexly woven story, but he also sparked a passion for change. That is a true gift.
The characters are flawed. Many are unlikeable and hard to “look” at, but… it is through the ugly truth that we spark change. I wasn’t expecting a happily ever after, but what I got instead was so much more real.
February 2, 2022
I put this book off far too long- reading it nearly a year after having initially bought it. It slipped through my fingers for a while, and I have to admit that I probably avoided it due to the content I was expecting. I knew that this would be a dark read, but I wasn’t entirely sure what I was in for. Part of me wondered whether the message of the struggling homeless population would lack story, whether the fiction would read as non-fiction. I’m pleased to say those worries were unfounded. Sure, this book recounts true horrors, the reality of what it’s like to be homeless and the mentality that follows that existence, but it has a story all its own. I found myself following the characters with hopes that they would triumph. Unfortunately, this is a story as cruel as life itself, so that was not the case.
I enjoyed scenes with Cory, a transvestite by her own definition, who painstakingly saved thousands of dollars to undergo her surgery, and Zorro, a spunky, energy-filled guy who did jobs for everyone and anyone. The side characters were as strong or stronger as the main characters, with distinct personalities and speech, and I always count that as a sign of a good novel. They’re memorable, and I wanted more of them. In comparison, I did have a bit of difficulty connecting to the main characters. I connected mostly to Ryan and Lori- but I found myself sorely disappointed in the ends they met. I believed in them overcoming, in Ryan’s health, in Lori’s sexual abuse coming to light, in some kind of pay off or resolution. But this story does not have a happy ending. It’s true that not every story needs to have a happy ending, but in a lot of ways, I felt like many of the story lines didn’t have any pay off at all. I was sorely disappointed in the endings some characters got, and the abrupt way things played out. To me, there were several lacking story arcs.
However, the writing itself is nothing short of impressive. I found the use of language to be extraordinarily well done, and I enjoyed unflinching descripts. Mr. Muzarieta does not shy away from the depravity in this novel, and as a lover of honest, true horror, I really respect that. However, there is extremely dirty subject matter all throughout the book, so I have to caution those who wish to read it. It is not everyone’s cup of tea- and it shouldn’t be. Sometimes people have to read the dark to appreciate the light.
One small detail to mention; I wish the book itself had been better quality. This is through no fault of the author, but the paperback seemed extraordinarily frail, and the cover permanently bent within only a few days of use. I take care of my books, I love my books, but something about the material of this one made it easily bend and fray, and that was unfortunate.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. I hated some aspects of the ending, but the reason it has such a high score is because of the quality of the writing, and some of the fantastic scenes within. I would recommend it to those who aren’t afraid of facing ugly realities, and those who don’t mind a book where there is no true happy ending.
I enjoyed scenes with Cory, a transvestite by her own definition, who painstakingly saved thousands of dollars to undergo her surgery, and Zorro, a spunky, energy-filled guy who did jobs for everyone and anyone. The side characters were as strong or stronger as the main characters, with distinct personalities and speech, and I always count that as a sign of a good novel. They’re memorable, and I wanted more of them. In comparison, I did have a bit of difficulty connecting to the main characters. I connected mostly to Ryan and Lori- but I found myself sorely disappointed in the ends they met. I believed in them overcoming, in Ryan’s health, in Lori’s sexual abuse coming to light, in some kind of pay off or resolution. But this story does not have a happy ending. It’s true that not every story needs to have a happy ending, but in a lot of ways, I felt like many of the story lines didn’t have any pay off at all. I was sorely disappointed in the endings some characters got, and the abrupt way things played out. To me, there were several lacking story arcs.
However, the writing itself is nothing short of impressive. I found the use of language to be extraordinarily well done, and I enjoyed unflinching descripts. Mr. Muzarieta does not shy away from the depravity in this novel, and as a lover of honest, true horror, I really respect that. However, there is extremely dirty subject matter all throughout the book, so I have to caution those who wish to read it. It is not everyone’s cup of tea- and it shouldn’t be. Sometimes people have to read the dark to appreciate the light.
One small detail to mention; I wish the book itself had been better quality. This is through no fault of the author, but the paperback seemed extraordinarily frail, and the cover permanently bent within only a few days of use. I take care of my books, I love my books, but something about the material of this one made it easily bend and fray, and that was unfortunate.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. I hated some aspects of the ending, but the reason it has such a high score is because of the quality of the writing, and some of the fantastic scenes within. I would recommend it to those who aren’t afraid of facing ugly realities, and those who don’t mind a book where there is no true happy ending.
January 27, 2023
Where do I even start with this book?
The characters were easily seen as real people living life on the streets. From the main characters to the side characters, you get fully developed characters you either love or hate.
Most of the characters had issues with addiction or mental illness, which is what truly effects many homeless people.
The first chapter felt like I was reading a documentary and after reading the back of the book and finding out the author actually spent time living amongst the homeless, it made sense. I loved that part of the book and how it flowed seamlessly into a story.
I would have liked Ryan and Lori's stories to end differently, but every book can't have a happy ending.
This book will stay with me for quite some time.
The characters were easily seen as real people living life on the streets. From the main characters to the side characters, you get fully developed characters you either love or hate.
Most of the characters had issues with addiction or mental illness, which is what truly effects many homeless people.
The first chapter felt like I was reading a documentary and after reading the back of the book and finding out the author actually spent time living amongst the homeless, it made sense. I loved that part of the book and how it flowed seamlessly into a story.
I would have liked Ryan and Lori's stories to end differently, but every book can't have a happy ending.
This book will stay with me for quite some time.
Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews