MORBID THOUGHTS AND THE DOMINO EFFECT, subtitled “Passing Thoughts During Cancer” chronicles Perry Muse’s diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer. It’s an in depth look at everything the author went through in terms of both medical procedure and emotional upheavals. Muse blends his cancer journey with elements of autobiography charting his family life, his military career and the various scrapes he has been in along the way. It’s an honest, open and endearing approach to a difficult subject.

In addition to his cancer treatments, Muse had been in the hospital plenty of times before. He survived two automobile accidents, in which he was catapulted through the windshield, and an 110 mph collision with a telephone pole while out on his motorcycle. There are even photographs of some of the aftermath. Towards the back of the book there is a graphic illustrating more than 30 injuries or medical interventions Muse has received from his cancer surgery, right back to stitches needed after a kart accident, a hammer incident and a dog bite (though these weren’t all at the same time!) But it’s Muse’s explanation of his cancer treatment that many readers will find most interesting and useful. He is exhaustive in detailing every stage of his treatment offering advice and encouragement for anybody who is experiencing a similar diagnosis. His is a step-by-step guide to what happened to him and what other might expect. And this goes beyond the medical procedures and touches on relationships with family and friends and practical advice on the ways a lifestyle might need to change.

Though it’s a subject that arises frequently throughout the text, Muse doesn’t put much faith in astrology (though he agrees he pretty much fits all of the attributes of a Sagittarius). But he is a religious man and puts plenty of faith in God. Astrology might act as a pointer but it is religion that gives him his strength. He shows great fortitude, and no shortage of humor, as he struggles to overcome his cancer. It’s an inspirational journey.

Copiously illustrated and well designed, Perry Muse’s MORBID THOUGHTS AND THE DOMINO EFFECT is a pleasure to read. Muse shares his story in meticulous detail and with an openness and sense of positivity that can only inspire readers who find themselves in a similar situation.

~Kent Lane for IndieReader