Parallel Lives

by Martin Gwent Lewis

What if... Haven't we all wondered what life would be like if we made different choices - decisions so significant that they could change the very course of our lives. What if we opened the door to that alternative career, travelled beyond the boundaries of our known homeland or dared to fulfill that forsaken love? What if, it was possible to communicate with those different versions of ourselves; those who existed in these parallel worlds? Much like vacillating strings played as a chord on a violin, what if we combined our unique gifts? Would the result be a powerful force for good? On the other hand, would it open the door for chaos? Drunk and desperate, Richard grapples with the kind of black hopelessness that can only find solace in an eternal silence. Seeing an image in the mirror, he staggers closer, "Wait a minute..." he blinks in disbelief, "am I hallucinating? Hang on... I know you... don't I?" He squints and widens his eyes several times proving to himself that this man, this 'vision', is indeed himself. Only this man looks healthier, his brow less furrowed, his face not ravaged from a life of disappointment. He is a Professor of History. It seems Richard's medical path began around the same time the "visitor's" career began. "You see", the professor says quite plainly, "when a choice is made - another choice is left behind. That road not travelled is exactly where our lives split. You went your way and I mine." The Prof explains how his own life, parallel to Richard's but yet his own, was made possible because of this split. He invites the others - namely Singer (the musician) and Theo (the theologian) to meet Richard. This amalgam of their "parallel lives" intervene on Richard's behalf and begin to unravel the mystery and purpose of their revelation. Aided by a young actress Madeleine, this group of men is summoned to unveil a much darker purpose. Forced to procure their unique problem solving team, the men direct their efforts against international exploitation. Can Richard summon his "parallel lives" to save himself, his love and those caught in the throws of bio-genocide? The story encompasses travel through London, Geneva and culminates in East Africa. The book is strong for its readability, its travel references, plausible medical scenarios and use of accepted questions about our physical and spiritual realms. This fiction work would appeal to all ages, races, educational background, and anyone hungry for adventure, romance, and intrigue.

288 pages, Paperback

First published June 30, 2011

Reviews

[Monica English · Rating 3 out of 5]

I met the author at a small book sale in Florida some years ago. Upon seeing his book, it sounded interesting, and I thought I would be supportive by purchasing his book. I'm glad I did because it was really an enjoyable read, and I hope this book becomes more well-known. As an added plus, I have his signature in my copy! :)

[Tia Bach · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this book for Rebecca's Reads (http://rebeccasreads.com). Please see my full review there.

An excerpt:

Can you imagine being at the lowest point in your life and reviewing all your past decisions? Not just reviewing them, but meeting your alter egos who made different decisions. Thus is the basis of Parallel Lives, an intriguing story about a man struggling with life and past decisions. The story opens on Richard’s darkest day. He’s about to end it all when a voice yells, “Don’t do it! The repercussions are beyond your wildest dreams.” His savior is his counterpart in another reality, known as Historian.

Final analysis: If you enjoy twists and turns, action, and thought provoking themes, this book is for you. Don’t give up in the beginning or you’ll miss the best parts.