This first novel by Sean Pauzauskie, a neurologist, weaves a story around the familiar themes of King Lear - love, family rivalry, deception, inheritance, intrigue and skullduggery.
The use of a novel by a specialist to explore complex modern issues is a favoured technique, and a very effective one at that. Pauzauskie uses it to great advantage. As a reader, we are treated to a good story, while simultaneously becoming acquainted with advances in technology. There exists the very real possibility that a person in a coma can emerge from it with the aid of state-of-the art practice and equipment; in this case ultrasonic thalamic stimulation.
The main character is Steven Levinson, a billionaire who almost drowned when his boat capsized leaving him in a coma, kept alive by mechanical means. He is unable to communicate but his mind is still functioning, and he is able to discern the activity going on around him, and witness first hand the internecine activity displayed by his family.
The story weaves back and forth between the present and Levinson's early days in Alaska, the forces that shaped his character, and his relationship with his father. He learns hitherto unknown aspects of his father's history, disturbing and dark, facts that lead to him being pursued and almost killed. He almost dies a second time when trapped in a snowstorm with his boyhood friend while on a survey mission. They are attacked by a bear, an uncanny circumstance hearkening back to the disconcerting experience of his father.
The medical team is successful in restoring consciousness to Levinson, but the hoped for Nirvana is not achieved. His reality is inaccurate, circumstances are not as they appeared. His beloved wife releases him from their bond, tells him that it is time to let go. And go he does, with his son, Danny, to the far reaches of outer space.
And peace at last.
Stage of Fools - High Frequency Press
Sean Pauzauskie
Hardcover - ISBN: 9781962931311 - 226 pages
Publishing date: 20 October, 2025
Funny, we have a friend named Steven Levinson who has a boat! Anyway he is fine and hasn't capsized! Thanks for the review sounds interesting and certainly exciting.but not for me-I prefer a good memoir or historical fiction.
ReplyDeleteHari OM
ReplyDeleteInteresting... I have only recently discovered (and am greatly appreciating) the Hogarth Shakespeare series, so although different again this one appeals... and proves once more the amazing prescience of Old Will's writing! YAM xx
He did leave his mark, didn't he?
DeleteThank you 😊 for sharing this review, ❤️ David.
ReplyDeleteFirst time I've read your review of a novel. Not sure it's one I'll look for.
ReplyDeleteUpdate on our rain: we got 3 inches!
You are right, Marcia. It's only the second time I recall reviewing a novel. I received a request from the publisher and I was happy to do it, but the process is distinctly different from reviewing natural history titles. I am not sure that I did a particularly good job!
DeleteI thought this was going to be about politics in USA! he he ha ha ho ho.... I was totally shocked that you read a fiction novel. Next thing you know I might read a non fiction book. or NOT.
ReplyDeletei do read fiction, but I don't review the books. A few months ago I went on a bit of a Margaret Atwood binge and re-read just about everything she has ever written. I suspect Robertson Davies may be next!
DeleteI think this is a good book, David.
ReplyDeleteHave a good weekend.
Greetings Irma
...a bit over my empty head.
ReplyDeleteI've been thinking about the whole King Lear theme in a modern setting and how a coma might bring out the worst in a family, it's such a compelling, dark idea for a plot. It sounds like a really engrossing read, especially with that touch of Alaskan mystery and high-tech medicine woven in.
ReplyDeleteThank you for the book review, David. Hugs and kisses, Marit
ReplyDeleteAn interesting concept for a novel, and, yes, I think you did quite a good job of reviewing it. To be honest though, I don't think it's one I'll be adding to my read list.
ReplyDeleteAn unexpected ending.
ReplyDeleteo...the end was really sad...this sounds like a rather interesting read, David.
ReplyDeleteThank you for the review, David.
ReplyDeleteThis is intriguing. I remember reading the book Left Neglected by Lisa Genova--also a neuroscientist and author. It blew my mind in some ways and I still think about it, even though I read it over a decade ago. Thanks for the review!
ReplyDeleteSounds like an interesting read. How was your trip to GB? :-D
ReplyDeleteI am pretty sure I mentioned that I will be there early October. I will leave Canada 4 October.
DeleteNot sure from your review that I would enjoy reading this book....Being aware and having no control??? Interesting concept ...I'm sure it happens.
ReplyDeleteWell David, I think this may be the first time I've known you review a novel...
ReplyDeleteIt sounds an interesting read.
All the best Jan
As best I remember I have only reviewed one other novel and that was nature related.
DeleteLove, rivalry, betrayals in Alaska, bears, snowstorms, and even a cosmic ending, this review is wonderful.
ReplyDeleteHave a nice weekend, dear friend!
Hugs and kisses, gros bisous, squeezes, smackers and smooches :D
Kiitos romaaniesittelystä David. Erikoinen kirja, mielenkiintoinen, mutta rohkeuteni ei riitä sen lukemiseen.
ReplyDeleteCan you believe, as I read your review I was waiting for the reference to birds! :)
ReplyDeleteLijkt een mooi boek David.
ReplyDeleteGroetjes Tinie
I am going to put this one on my list, sounds intriguing. Thank you for another great review. I haven't read a fiction book in a long time but this appeals to me
ReplyDeleteIt seems like an interesting book. I'll put it on my reading list.
ReplyDeleteThis one sounds extremely interesting, a book I would enjoy and one I should think would stay with you. I always appreciate it when a novel's author knows exactly what he's talking about from experience.
ReplyDeleteWow! This sounds like a fascinating book. Thanks for the review.
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