The Existence of Amanda Blake
The Existence of Amanda Blake
It is 1957, and Amanda Blake is admitted against her will to Bristol Mental Hospital. Since her first breakdown her parents have interpreted any move towards independence as proof of madness. They invalidate, ignore and gaslight her. A junior psychiatrist understands this but her consultant sides with the parents and applies ever more hazardous treatments as her desperation grows. Her very existence is under threat.
Publishers Austin Macauley mail@austinmacauley.com
About Rica
Rica Newbery is a retired psychiatrist whose clinical experience informs her narrative voice. Her fascination with psychiatry began in childhood, loving the symbolism in folk stories, myths and dreams as expressions of the subconscious mind. At 17, she read R.D. Laing’s work and was inspired by his approach. He gave his patients a voice and listened to the meaning of their so‑called delusions. Her book aims to bring the kind of family portrayed in *Sanity, Madness and the Family* to life.
Themes & Context
Psychology
Explores how families, doctors and patients make sense of ‘madness’—and how labels like ‘illness’ or ‘insanity’ can hide deeper pain, fear and control.
1957 Era
Set in a post‑war Britain clinging to respectability, where women are expected to obey, keep quiet and fit in—or risk being seen as unstable.
Legacy
Shows how the stories we tell about ‘madness’ still shape our ideas about mental health, family loyalty and who is allowed to be believed.
Reading-Group Questions
Deepen your book club discussion with these five questions exploring the psychological landscape and historical weight of Amanda’s journey.
1. Mental Health & Validation: Amanda often feels like she 'does not exist' because her reality is constantly denied. How does the 'gaslighting' from her family and doctor contribute to her symptoms versus her actual distress?
2. Family Dynamics: In what ways do Amanda’s parents use 'love' and 'care' as a means of control? Is their behavior rooted in malice or a genuine fear of social non-conformity?
3. 1950s Context: How did 1957 British social standards dictate the expectations for young women? How might the period context have limited Amanda's options for escape or self-assertion?
4. The Role of the Psychiatrist: Rica Newbery was inspired by the work of R.D. Laing. Discuss how the psychiatric treatments of the era prioritized 'quiet obedience' over understanding a patient’s inner world.
5. Personal Identity: At the heart of the novel is a struggle for existence. What defines 'existence' for Amanda—is it being seen by others, or having her own internal voice believed?
If you have any questions about the book or issues raised in it, I would be delighted to hear from you.
Email me directly at: rica@amandablakeexist.com