Fractured Soul

Fractured Soul is the second book in the series in the Fractured Soul Novels. The story continues to follow the experiences of Ian Anderson (Open Up; A Fractured Sould Novel). After being free from the dangers of Smith and the intense questioning by Dr Redding, the reader finds Ian in 2020 at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic and all the restrictions imposed on the population.

Ian continues to experience blackouts, memories that he feels could never have happened as well as present-day experiences. In one such intrusive memory, he is back in 1977 as a twelve-year-old, when he encounters a troubled older boy named Peter in the woods. Peter, known locally as a drug dealer, attempts the dangerous act of hanging himself from a tree. Ian, initially hesitant, ends up helping Peter. After the attempt, Peter is found dead, and Ian reads about it in the newspaper. The story delves into Ian's reflections on the complexities of human behaviour, self-destructive impulses, and societal judgments. Ian shares insights into his own philosophy, revealing a contemplative and empathetic perspective on life and the struggles people face. The story takes an unexpected turn when Ian hints at his plans to involve someone else, introducing an element of suspense and anticipation.

Back in 2020, with businesses closing down and Scotland having voted for Independence in 2014, Ian visits an establishment that he recalls visiting when he was younger, even though, to Ian he knows this couldn't have happened since he had been kidnapped at the age of nine years old by two people, now dead. Nonetheless, his curiosity is more persuasive, making him go along with the memory and all that follows.

Ian strikes up a conversation with Chelsea in the establishment, who inadvertently triggers more memories and emotions he has never experienced before. Peter Rumford, somehow makes an appearance even though he has been dead since 1977.