Chapter One: They Need Therapy…Not Each Other!

In this episode of Plot Twists & Freudian Slips, we dive into Still Beating by Jennifer Hartman, unpack the psychology of the characters, side-eye the coping mechanisms, and ask the question we always ask: is this healing, or just trauma bonding?

In this episode, we discuss:

• Trauma and PTSD

• Reading goals and slumps

• 1 star reviews on Goodreads

Trigger Warnings***

This episode discusses sexual assault, kidnapping, murder, self-harm, attempted suicide, reference of non-viable pregnancy and loss of a pet. Your mental health is of the utmost importance to us; please take care while listening. 

Books & media mentioned

• Still Beating by Jennifer Hartman

• DSM-5 by The American Psychiatric Association

• The Seven Year Slip by Ashley Poston

• The Wedding People by Alison Espach

• The Favorites by Layne Fargo

• Book recommendations from Mary: Lotus by Jennifer Hartman and The Stars Are on Our Side by Jennifer Hartman

Therapy Disclaimer

The "Plot Twists and Freudian Slips" podcast is for entertainment purposes only. While I am a licensed therapist, my analysis of fictional characters does not constitute a therapist-patient relationship, nor is it a substitute for professional mental health advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

The "diagnoses" discussed are speculative and based solely on the text of the book; they are intended to provide insight into psychological themes and narrative arcs, not to label real individuals.

If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or need professional support, please reach out to a local licensed provider or contact a crisis hotline immediately. Listening to this podcast does not establish a clinical relationship between the listener and Julia Baruffi. 

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Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/synod/simple-life License code: TR6Q5EZNHYKFOQWP

Spoiler Alert***

There will be major spoilers for this book, so if you have not read it yet, please do so. 

Or, sit back and listen while we unpack the book together! :) 

Xoxo - Mary and Jules