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Euphoric Recall
Set in Scotland, Euphoric Recall is a powerful and true story of a working-class lad growing up in Livingston and his recovery from addiction and trauma. Although intense, it's written with much humour, and hope. In the author's own words:
"As a schoolboy already caught up in addiction, I stood outside of a McDonald's waiting for a man I thought was my friend. A friend I met online. It would change my life forever. I was a streetwise kid growing up in a tough housing scheme. But the Internet was a new phenomenon. Euphoric Recall details my recovery from extreme trauma and addiction. As a Scottish working-class lad who grew up in a new town—Livingston—I also survived brutal experiences with suicide, violence, and severe mental health issues. One day, I decided to write a memoir about it. I hold nothing back.”
"As a schoolboy already caught up in addiction, I stood outside of a McDonald's waiting for a man I thought was my friend. A friend I met online. It would change my life forever. I was a streetwise kid growing up in a tough housing scheme. But the Internet was a new phenomenon. Euphoric Recall details my recovery from extreme trauma and addiction. As a Scottish working-class lad who grew up in a new town—Livingston—I also survived brutal experiences with suicide, violence, and severe mental health issues. One day, I decided to write a memoir about it. I hold nothing back.”
- GenresNonfictionMemoir
190 pages, Paperback
Published October 1, 2020
9 people are currently reading
141 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
February 15, 2021
There are times when a book just hits a reader in a certain way that makes one speechless. I am in such a situation. I have been staring at this computer screen, rewriting and deleting my first sentence. There have been few occasions when this has happened but in the case of Euphoric Recall, it was strong.
Euphoric Recall is a memoir about author, Aidan Martin’s abuse; drug, sexual and emotional. To add to that, the book is also about Aidan’s younger brother’s death from cancer and his own son’s leukemia. There’s also his relationship with his strict step father.
For a short 170 page memoir, a lot happens. There’s memories of Aidan’s methods of getting money to fund his drug habit, his first sexual trauma, his discovery of pornography, his experiences in Canada but there are tender moments as well, his brother’s death, his recovery and his efforts to call out his abuser. Before someone yells out ‘misery porn’, this is not true. Everything is told in a frank and earnest way. No melodrama and definitely no emotional manipulation. This is a memoir about addiction and the ways to beat it: although there are struggles, it can happen. Euphoric Recall is a success story.
As stated in the start of the review, I was awestruck by Euphoric Recall. I liked the honesty of the novel, the descriptions and I am glad that Aidan Martin was able to recover, which makes the book uplifting but in a non condescending way , Euphoric Recall also urges people who have suffered from sexual abuse and trauma to speak up.
I have only read two memories about addiction and abuse, one I liked but later on found out was full of lies and the other one felt like I was being manipulated. Euphoric Recall is about suffering but also does state that if one takes the right steps there can be redemption of sorts.
Euphoric Recall is a memoir about author, Aidan Martin’s abuse; drug, sexual and emotional. To add to that, the book is also about Aidan’s younger brother’s death from cancer and his own son’s leukemia. There’s also his relationship with his strict step father.
For a short 170 page memoir, a lot happens. There’s memories of Aidan’s methods of getting money to fund his drug habit, his first sexual trauma, his discovery of pornography, his experiences in Canada but there are tender moments as well, his brother’s death, his recovery and his efforts to call out his abuser. Before someone yells out ‘misery porn’, this is not true. Everything is told in a frank and earnest way. No melodrama and definitely no emotional manipulation. This is a memoir about addiction and the ways to beat it: although there are struggles, it can happen. Euphoric Recall is a success story.
As stated in the start of the review, I was awestruck by Euphoric Recall. I liked the honesty of the novel, the descriptions and I am glad that Aidan Martin was able to recover, which makes the book uplifting but in a non condescending way , Euphoric Recall also urges people who have suffered from sexual abuse and trauma to speak up.
I have only read two memories about addiction and abuse, one I liked but later on found out was full of lies and the other one felt like I was being manipulated. Euphoric Recall is about suffering but also does state that if one takes the right steps there can be redemption of sorts.
October 1, 2020
From start to finish this book is powerfully gripping. It takes you to every emotion possible and I truly could not put it down. Finishing the book in one sitting. Aidan Martin is a truly talented Author! Well done!
October 7, 2020
I am stunned. An emotional rollercoaster from start to finish. So brilliantly written and brutally honest. True to the publisher’s name as it takes true guts to not only face what happened but to write about it and publish it - baring your soul to the world for all to see.
I am in awe. Any attempts to put the book down were squashed within minutes - despite every effort to stop reading and take a breath, I had to keep picking it right back up. The way in which this book is written will make you feel connected and invested in someone’s life, despite never having met them. As someone who grew up in an entirely different continent and raised with a completely different cultural background, I was able to relate in ways I never thought about - this is because of the perspective given. A different way of looking at something.
It is tragic and raw, but it is real. It happened, but it is still happening. All over the world this is still happening.
I am in awe. Any attempts to put the book down were squashed within minutes - despite every effort to stop reading and take a breath, I had to keep picking it right back up. The way in which this book is written will make you feel connected and invested in someone’s life, despite never having met them. As someone who grew up in an entirely different continent and raised with a completely different cultural background, I was able to relate in ways I never thought about - this is because of the perspective given. A different way of looking at something.
It is tragic and raw, but it is real. It happened, but it is still happening. All over the world this is still happening.
June 4, 2021
I knew before I even opened the book this would be a hard hitting memoir. I was very apprehensive to read this one but once I read the introduction I knew this would be an essential read. I had goosebumps reading the introduction and from there on in I was immersed into Aidans story from being groomed, addcition, family struggles to being a father and getting his degree he ends the book with a sense of promise.
Throughout the entirety of the novel I had a sickening feeling at the pit of my stomach and it wasn't until I finished the book I felt relief as this guy has had a tough life and his writing is so powerful, raw and authentic. It's very intense with hard to read content but it's memoirs like this that need to be read, we need to read about real people and real struggles to understand ourselves. There's times when reading you feel like you're in the room with Aidan as his descriptions are so vivid and honestly it was absolutely terryfying. Aidan holds nothing back from this memoir but there are lighter moments throughout especially towards the end which were refreshing and relieving to read.
Throughout the entirety of the novel I had a sickening feeling at the pit of my stomach and it wasn't until I finished the book I felt relief as this guy has had a tough life and his writing is so powerful, raw and authentic. It's very intense with hard to read content but it's memoirs like this that need to be read, we need to read about real people and real struggles to understand ourselves. There's times when reading you feel like you're in the room with Aidan as his descriptions are so vivid and honestly it was absolutely terryfying. Aidan holds nothing back from this memoir but there are lighter moments throughout especially towards the end which were refreshing and relieving to read.
October 2, 2020
My book arrived, I began reading. I closed the book when it got late, yet could not sleep without knowing how it ends. I returned to my sitting room and finished the memoir. 4am had passed and I had work early, but I finished it!
I woke up the next day feeling peculiar. I found it significantly easier to tell those close to me that I love them. How did this happen to me? To a person rather reserved with their feelings.....
I felt inspired! There’s clearly many different ways this memoir can and will inspire you. That’s my safe bet, I’d say. I think even the hardest person will feel those lumps at the back of the throat. The subject matter is wide, varied and massively important to the human race.
It’s tragic, brutal, beautiful, frightening, gritty, hilarious, raw and real. It’s happening all over the world. It’s happening right now!
I woke up the next day feeling peculiar. I found it significantly easier to tell those close to me that I love them. How did this happen to me? To a person rather reserved with their feelings.....
I felt inspired! There’s clearly many different ways this memoir can and will inspire you. That’s my safe bet, I’d say. I think even the hardest person will feel those lumps at the back of the throat. The subject matter is wide, varied and massively important to the human race.
It’s tragic, brutal, beautiful, frightening, gritty, hilarious, raw and real. It’s happening all over the world. It’s happening right now!
Read
February 23, 2022When you start a buddy read, but can’t put the book down and finish it in 2 days. That’s what happened when I picked up this book.
Hard hitting memoir. Aiden Martin gives us the realism of poor schooling, abuse, heartbreak, addiction and recovery.
This book showed me what a loving family and caring people can overcome.
Hard hitting memoir. Aiden Martin gives us the realism of poor schooling, abuse, heartbreak, addiction and recovery.
This book showed me what a loving family and caring people can overcome.
April 20, 2021
Picked this up and couldn’t put it down. Read it in half a day. Very moving, I shed a few tears. A good insight into trauma , addiction and twelve step recovery.
January 7, 2025
Written from a view point of raw honesty, including really tough trauma, addiction, extremely low mental health points and continuous bad decision making. Well done Aidan for bringing a spotlight to how these issues exist everywhere but are ten fold in areas of poverty. This book will haunt me.
December 12, 2020
This is a good story, it is an inspirational journey, from a place very close to my heart. It is written as a journal, this happened, then this, then I did this, I went to a place, he was there and he did this. It is recall but I definitely must have missed the euphoria part. It is a series of events in which, however, I feel removed from the feelings, the passions, from the emotions. I wanted to identify with the protagonist or his mum or the girlfriends' the siblings or anyone, but I struggled with it. I appreciate the author's journey, admire the great determination, the huge growth and intent. It's a good story, but telling a story well means more than just having a good story to tell.
September 22, 2024
What a truly remarkable, emotional and honest memoir. In my opinion, this was a powerful book with a spectacular and positive message that is achieved from a straight talking description of an honest account of how life can be, captured via some hard hitting accounts.
These accounts were executed brilliantly through the written format which eagerly kept me turning each page and finished within one sitting.
This has definitely been one of the most raw life accounts I have read and completely inspirational.
Through the authors bravery it made me realise what battles are out there and that a switch does not just turn it off. It is commendable and I am humbled and appreciate that the author listened to the voice ‘write a book’.
These accounts were executed brilliantly through the written format which eagerly kept me turning each page and finished within one sitting.
This has definitely been one of the most raw life accounts I have read and completely inspirational.
Through the authors bravery it made me realise what battles are out there and that a switch does not just turn it off. It is commendable and I am humbled and appreciate that the author listened to the voice ‘write a book’.
March 23, 2021
I heard of Aidans book through my network of friends and for that I shall forever be grateful.
"Euphoric Recall" is truly one of the most frank, inspiring, harrowing (at points), insightful, truthful and brave books I have ever had the privilege of reading. Aidan lays bare his soul unashamedly to allow us, the reader into some of the most personal, dangerous and intimate moments that have not only shaped his own character and the lessons he learned personally but has also connected with his readers on a deep level which has provided the opportunity for Euphoric Recall to reach and relate to many, many people, a feat in which I find very few can achieve. In my own case there were many instances of which very profound.
The book and it's contents are a very rare mix of honesty, brutality, many forms of abuse, mental health crisis, suicide, addiction but also of insight, hope, positivity and the various stages of recovery.
For a debut novel it is written in such an accessible way using beautiful prose in such a relatable way including anecdotes that are sure to crack a smile regardless of at points a dark backdrop. It shows how the patriarchy is not only working against females but of males also and it illustrates the importance of helping others as well as taking the appropriate steps to seek help for yourself.
I've read through the book two times in the month I've owned it and only now have I felt able to write my feelings on it, as it has become very close to my heart. I grew up in the same town as the author and as aforementioned it has resonated with me in a way no other book has.
Please, please, please read this book you will not regret it!!. I truly hope this becomes part of the high school syllabus (National 5 in Scotland) as there are so many lessons to be learned and discussions to be had that could lead to better communication and understanding for our younger generations.
I'd also like to mention the cover illustration created by Mark Deans as it conveys in its illustration the struggle of man to me subjectively.
"Euphoric Recall" is truly one of the most frank, inspiring, harrowing (at points), insightful, truthful and brave books I have ever had the privilege of reading. Aidan lays bare his soul unashamedly to allow us, the reader into some of the most personal, dangerous and intimate moments that have not only shaped his own character and the lessons he learned personally but has also connected with his readers on a deep level which has provided the opportunity for Euphoric Recall to reach and relate to many, many people, a feat in which I find very few can achieve. In my own case there were many instances of which very profound.
The book and it's contents are a very rare mix of honesty, brutality, many forms of abuse, mental health crisis, suicide, addiction but also of insight, hope, positivity and the various stages of recovery.
For a debut novel it is written in such an accessible way using beautiful prose in such a relatable way including anecdotes that are sure to crack a smile regardless of at points a dark backdrop. It shows how the patriarchy is not only working against females but of males also and it illustrates the importance of helping others as well as taking the appropriate steps to seek help for yourself.
I've read through the book two times in the month I've owned it and only now have I felt able to write my feelings on it, as it has become very close to my heart. I grew up in the same town as the author and as aforementioned it has resonated with me in a way no other book has.
Please, please, please read this book you will not regret it!!. I truly hope this becomes part of the high school syllabus (National 5 in Scotland) as there are so many lessons to be learned and discussions to be had that could lead to better communication and understanding for our younger generations.
I'd also like to mention the cover illustration created by Mark Deans as it conveys in its illustration the struggle of man to me subjectively.
April 5, 2021
What makes a book worth reading?
Whether it's fiction or non-fiction, we want it to give us something real to take away.
Aidan Martin's Europhic Recall does exactly that. It's a pandora's box of a book, in that it tells a story of addiction, abuse, pain, and cancer, but of hope too.
It talks deeply about masculinity as well, addressing the subject with nuance, and exploring the impact growing up male and working class in Scotland has on an identity and a life.
In some ways, the book brings to mind Matt Haig's Reasons to Stay Alive for me. Just as I'd recommend any mental health professional should read Haig's book, I think anyone (at all) working with people with addictions issues should read Martin's. These stories and experiences are so important for both empathy and recovery, and can aid people's understanding of themselves and each other in a way that statistics alone can never achieve.
It's also worth mentioning Martin's skill as a writer. The book has the feeling of listening to a skilled storyteller speaking about his past, with vivid descriptions and well paced chapters. While the topics are challenging, the writing itself supports you to read on.
Whether it's fiction or non-fiction, we want it to give us something real to take away.
Aidan Martin's Europhic Recall does exactly that. It's a pandora's box of a book, in that it tells a story of addiction, abuse, pain, and cancer, but of hope too.
It talks deeply about masculinity as well, addressing the subject with nuance, and exploring the impact growing up male and working class in Scotland has on an identity and a life.
In some ways, the book brings to mind Matt Haig's Reasons to Stay Alive for me. Just as I'd recommend any mental health professional should read Haig's book, I think anyone (at all) working with people with addictions issues should read Martin's. These stories and experiences are so important for both empathy and recovery, and can aid people's understanding of themselves and each other in a way that statistics alone can never achieve.
It's also worth mentioning Martin's skill as a writer. The book has the feeling of listening to a skilled storyteller speaking about his past, with vivid descriptions and well paced chapters. While the topics are challenging, the writing itself supports you to read on.
November 29, 2020
What a rush
Aidan’s relatable journey, so far, through a life which puts hardships into perspective is profoundly moving.
That Aidan’s degradation addiction was moulded by someone who he believed was understanding and supportive of him is testament to how “Groomers” affect individuals.
This line is such a poignant emotive “take your unmanageability from one place to another”.
I wonder if some of Aidan’s addictions were his way of being in control of what happened to him, or having a mental excuse for why they happened to him.
This book is a truly eye opening read into one addicts rollercoaster of a journey through life.
I’m so pleased that Aidan had his ‘belly button family’ and his ‘recovery family’, so that he was able to share his story, which might help others to gain an inkling of an understanding of what not only addicts, but their family and friends too, might be going through.
Kudos to you Aidan 🙌
Aidan’s relatable journey, so far, through a life which puts hardships into perspective is profoundly moving.
That Aidan’s degradation addiction was moulded by someone who he believed was understanding and supportive of him is testament to how “Groomers” affect individuals.
This line is such a poignant emotive “take your unmanageability from one place to another”.
I wonder if some of Aidan’s addictions were his way of being in control of what happened to him, or having a mental excuse for why they happened to him.
This book is a truly eye opening read into one addicts rollercoaster of a journey through life.
I’m so pleased that Aidan had his ‘belly button family’ and his ‘recovery family’, so that he was able to share his story, which might help others to gain an inkling of an understanding of what not only addicts, but their family and friends too, might be going through.
Kudos to you Aidan 🙌
May 26, 2021
As someone who has struggled with their mental health since I was a teenager, I absolutely loved this book because it just *gets it *.
I have OCD - which can feel like an addiction at times - so I really related to Aidan’s story, and appreciated his heart-wrenching honesty throughout.
Structurally, this book is really well-formed and written, and it’s a brisk read that I found hard to put down (for all my mental health has been a bit all over the place recently).
I would recommend it to anyone, regardless of whether you’ve got a mental illness or addiction, as addicts, as Adian says himself, can be anyone, and the only way to break the cycle is through brutal honesty like the kind shown in this book.
It’s also a must-read if you’re going through a hard time, or just want to be inspired.
I look forward to reading Adian’s future work!
I have OCD - which can feel like an addiction at times - so I really related to Aidan’s story, and appreciated his heart-wrenching honesty throughout.
Structurally, this book is really well-formed and written, and it’s a brisk read that I found hard to put down (for all my mental health has been a bit all over the place recently).
I would recommend it to anyone, regardless of whether you’ve got a mental illness or addiction, as addicts, as Adian says himself, can be anyone, and the only way to break the cycle is through brutal honesty like the kind shown in this book.
It’s also a must-read if you’re going through a hard time, or just want to be inspired.
I look forward to reading Adian’s future work!
October 1, 2020
I read this book in 24 hours , i was absolutely gripped from the beginning. The author of this book is extremely talented with the way he describes thoughts and feelings relating to different events in his journey, you feel in that moment with him and expirence all the emotions together it is very easy to imagine, there is a mixture of happiness and sadness and proper out loud laughter! Real raw context within. I really look forward to following this journey! And also already jumping with excitement at the thought of another book! Thank you so much Aiden Martin you should be extremely proud!
Kind regards
Hollie
Kind regards
Hollie
April 16, 2023
Aidan bares his soul to write a very harrowing but honest account of his life. I admire his honesty and ultimately, his tenacity. I love his Mum and how she never gives up on him and this resilience is obviously familial as we see in the way Aidan has dealt with life's devastating blows! A difficult, sad, emotional read but nonetheless importantly open. Gutsy...as his label says. Good on ye son for such a revealing account. Good luck to you and Mark and The Scheme - look forward to seeing your futures unfold and hearing about the futures you mould. Thoroughly recommend.
October 2, 2020
Aidan is a very talented writer! Not only that, he should be should be proud of himself for overcoming so much diversity!
The book covers topics that are not spoken about enough, in a way that highlights that addiction can happen to anyone. Trauma can happen to anyone. Not only that, it’s possible to turn your life around and use your experiences to help others!
I couldn’t put the book down until I finished it. I couldn’t recommend this book enough!!
The book covers topics that are not spoken about enough, in a way that highlights that addiction can happen to anyone. Trauma can happen to anyone. Not only that, it’s possible to turn your life around and use your experiences to help others!
I couldn’t put the book down until I finished it. I couldn’t recommend this book enough!!
October 2, 2020
Being a kid that grew up in a similar scheme, I thought I’d give this book a try. This book resonated with me on so many levels. From feeling unwanted to grief to mental health issues, this book ignited an electrical chain of connections that took me back to the inner most depths of my childhood and adolescent years. I challenge anyone to read this book and not to relate to multiple aspects of their own life. I imagine the more pressing challenge however, will be putting this book down.
October 4, 2020
The most honest, raw and emotional journey I’ve ever been on reading a book!!
The highs and lows of this book had me turning the pages till the end. Needless to say I read it in two days.
Aidan takes you into his world where you feel his pain, heartache and trauma.
You are in that room and you are inside his head feeling every emotion he had and only a truly talented writer can make you feel like that through words alone !
February 28, 2021
Is addiction about the choices you make or the circumstances you’re in? I suppose that’s a question you could ask after reading Aidan Martin’s highly readable account of grief, trauma, grooming and compulsive behaviour and how you get to a place beyond these. It’s hair raising stuff at times, for sure, but he can tell a story (he talks at one point about his Del Boy charm). It’s one of those rare books that I’d like everyone - certainly everyone in Scotland - to read.
August 6, 2022
Aidan opened up his heart and soul in this book. Shining a big spotlight on the dark corners of life as an addict. His writing style isn't heavy though. He tells it like it was and reveals many intimate details of what he went through. The abuse he suffered. There is laughter too. The keys to the flowerpot van in particular will stay with me always. Ultimately his story is one of hope. There is light at the end of life's black tunnel. Thanks for sharing man. Highly recommended.
October 2, 2020
To be honest, I'm not much of a book worm. I've got to be gripped within the first chapter or I'm bored and sling it. With this book though I'm already on chapter 4 as its truly gripping ma sh*t. Lol Loving it and imagining it being excellent content for the big screen too while reading. Thank you for your strength and honesty Aiden Martin. Much respect.
October 2, 2020
I finished reading Aiden's book this morning, this is an honest account of how trauma has affected a young child and then lead to a life of addiction and then recovery. From the start of the book he hasnt pulled any punches and although the topic is difficult to read at times he has done this with dignity. Well done.
October 2, 2020
I read Euphoric Recall in one sitting with every intention to put it down after a couple of chapters! But, from the first page I was hooked! It was emotional, raw and so inspiring. Aidan’s memoir highlights the highs and lows of his life with admirable honesty. I know this book will help SO many people, it won’t be one I forget. Highly recommend 📖
October 3, 2020
Wow! I honestly could not put this book down until I finished it! Aidan is such a brave and courageous man to have written his story, an inspiration for anyone who reads it. It was an emotional rollercoaster of reading, I can only commend Aidan for sharing his story with the world. I wait with great anticipation for the next book!
October 13, 2020
This is a book you will struggle to put down. What a fantastic read from a first time author. His book will have you laughing and crying and in genuine disbelief of the damage addiction can do to 'normal' people. This story confirms to me that strength overcomes adversity every time, never give up.
December 29, 2020
Very powerful read, could not put it down. Stay strong Aidan
Been following Aidan on Facebook as I live in the same area, but waited until now to read the book. From the moment i picked it up I could not stop read which is very unusual for me. Although the content was harrowing and very personal, I have a huge amount of admiration for the author. Would recommend this for parents and young adults alike, a must read for all in 2021
Been following Aidan on Facebook as I live in the same area, but waited until now to read the book. From the moment i picked it up I could not stop read which is very unusual for me. Although the content was harrowing and very personal, I have a huge amount of admiration for the author. Would recommend this for parents and young adults alike, a must read for all in 2021
January 15, 2021
Wow. Hard-hitting and raw. This is a very vulnerable and honest account of addiction in Scotland and I commend the author. Very digestible, the chapters are only about 10 pages each but a very impactful and emotional story that can offer great insights in to the lives of people struggling with addiction Would recommend.
January 26, 2021
A heart and gut-wrenching memoir of a man who went through 100 lifetimes of tragedy in half a lifetime. The author spills everything on the page, laying bare all his deepest, darkest truths, but all in aid of raising awareness that it's okay to speak up and be vulnerable as a man. A harrowing but fantastic read, would absolutely recommend it to anyone - just take note of the content warning!
February 13, 2021
I never write reviews but had to write one about this book. Being a Livi girl myself I was interested to read it but totally unprepared for the emotional rollercoaster Aidan takes you on. I have no words for the respect I have for how this guy has turned himself around. If you don’t howl your way through chapter 7, 11 and 12 then your heart is made of stone!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews