My feelings about this book are nearly as conflicted as the characters’ feelings about their situation.

On one hand, the story was disturbing on many levels, and the text itself was in need of a good technical editor. The grammar nerd in me, at one point, wanted to contact the author and offer my proofreading services. However, I don’t think I could emotionally and mentally handle reading a lot of this type of story. I realized about 75% through that this is really not my preferred genre. Then the end—I kept turning pages back and forth because I felt sure I missed something.

On the other hand, the plot was creative, I could envision the setting despite not having a whole lot of imagery in the writing, I wanted to keep reading to see what would happen next (terrified though I may have been of the outcome), and the story is one that will stick with me for quite some time. So… in that way, there is some merit.

Thanks to Trish Arrowsmith and LibraryThing for sending a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review! ( )

I enjoyed this book, kind of knew where it was heading but VERY enjoyable. I would recommend if domestic violence isn’t triggering to you. I will def be looking for more from this author. ( )

I received Distorted Perception by Trish Arrowsmith as part of the Early Reviewers program. Arrowsmith prefaces this book by saying that this is book that is without fluff and vivid side stories and descriptions, but rather a story written in a straightforward way to highlight the thought process of someone that finds themselves in an unpredictable and dangerous situation. I appreciated that preface as I am definitely a reader that loves those back stories and description.

When Kathleen leaves all that she knows to move away with Maxwell whom she just recently met, she thinks she has found the man of her dreams and the start of a new wonderful life. Things are not always as they seem as she soon discovers and Kathleen finds herself in a situation beyond her control.

I loved the idea of this story, however, I had a hard time connecting with the characters. I loved the potential of the storyline and would have loved to hear more about the other women, however, I respect the author's choice of writing style. This definitely is one of those stories that will stay with the reader long after that last page is turned. ( )

Distorted Perception by Trish Arrowsmith is the type of book that even though you like the book you know you probably won't be able to read it again (for those of us who regularly rereads some books).

My statement above is not a criticism, it is a compliment. When an author makes the interactions between the characters realistic yet disturbing, it makes for a great read. But because it stirs strong emotions in the reader (for me, mostly anger, compassion, and frustration) it might not lend itself to a second reading. An example from a completely different medium is the film Schindler's List. Powerful movie, glad I saw it, don't think I can sit through that rollercoaster again.

I think (hope) this novel is also a bit eye-opening for people. While most people won't experience anyone quite as extreme as Maxwell, we do regularly meet and get to know people who manipulate others for their own ends and/or enjoyment. Maxwell used many of the techniques these people use, and Arrowsmith gives us a glimpse into how Kathleen did, and by extension the reader can, misread what is happening until it is too late. One doesn't have to run and hide from interpersonal contact, just pay close attention to anything that might be unusual ("too good to be true," making big decisions too quickly, etc).

While I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys dark suspense or life stories, I would perhaps warn them about the extent of the manipulation and violence (physical, mental, emotional) so they can decide whether a dark but realistic book is what they want.

Reviewed from a copy made available by the publisher via LibraryThing. ( )

The title says it all: what is perceived is not necessarily true, and distortion can alter what is seen. Kathleen thinks she has met her perfect mate in Maxwell. Handsome, thoughtful, kind, caring. But there are red flags even before the “I do’s” are said. Kathleen turns a blind eye to things she sees and hears, dismissing them. But then, within days, everything she thought her marriage was turns to ashes. This tale of spousal abuse is a horror story. Author Trish Arrowsmith does a masterful job of introducing little by little first the warning signs, and then the actual abuse, and then the absolute horror. Hard to read, but even harder to stop reading, this book is like a train wreck. Somebody is, or more likely, somebodies are going to die. And there is nothing to be done about it. Gripping. ( )