When faced with a life-altering truth, which way do you turn?
He built a life as a straight man—husband, father, successful.
Then he discovered a truth that threatened to shatter it all.
Introducing The Elixir Effect
The Elixir Effect is a thought-provoking story about a man who believed he had it all figured out—husband, father, provider—until a discovery about his identity challenges everything.
Faced with the truth of his bisexuality, he must make a heart-wrenching choice: embrace his true self and risk his family’s love, or suppress his truth and live in denial. Set during a traumatic period, The novel explores masculinity, love, truth, and the complexities of self-discovery.
This is a true story, based on actual people, and unfolding in real time.
This novel asks the difficult questions:
What does it mean to be a man?
Do you risk everything to be true to yourself, or protect the ones you love by hiding who you are?
How do you handle a change to your core identity when unexpected experiences force you to question it all?
How do father and son dynamics influence a mans life?
How does sexuality and masculinity shape a mans identity?
What readers are saying
“The Elixir Effect” was an incredibly profound and impactful experience for me. From the heartfelt anecdotes to the practical advice for personal growth, every aspect of the manuscript
struck a chord with me and left a lasting impression."
- Dr Chantelle
"The author's handling of complex themes like identity and bisexuality is both sensitive and profound, offering a deep, resonant experience. Particularly striking are the rich descriptions and character dynamics that bring the story to life, making it not just a read, but an experience."
- James
"This is a beautiful story, and one I thoroughly enjoyed. I think it’s difficult enough to broach the subject of sexuality—especially in regards to the fluidity of sexuality—but when it’s mixed with those undertones of regret (or something closer to “how life could have been”) I think it elevates the idea of coming out and sexuality to an entirely different level."
- Nathaniel
"I think this story will touch a lot of people’s hearts and resonate with many, and a large part of that comes from how authentic, raw, and transparent it is with its subject matter."
- Elle
"An excellent story here that does a strong job of exploring toxic masculinity, identity, sexuality, parental relationships and traumas, the interplay between culture and life, regret, shame, weight, and empowerment. There’s such a depth of character development and work that goes into Dan, and I loved sitting with him throughout his self-exploration."
-J. Flowers-Olnowich
"Writing something so deep, powerful, relatable, funny, smart, and easy to read at the same time is ENORMOUS. Great job. Seriously–this book is fantastic.
I would give this book 10/10."
- Maciek
Where to find the Book
Gleebooks
Visit locations in Glebe, Dulwich Hill and Blackheath
Amazon
Pick up a copy of the Elixir Effect on your Kindle
Elixir Effect Shop
Visit our shop to get a copy and explore our full range
What Kirkus thinks
In an introduction, Matthews notes that his novel is based on a true story, and one that he found “instantly intriguing” and “painfully beautiful.” One could describe his book in a similar manner, as it grabs one’s attention from the beginning with several unfolding mysteries. Readers will find themselves asking some of the same questions as Jamie: Who is Ethan, and why did Dan share these communications with Jamie?
A thoughtful and tender exploration of grief and secrets.
About The Author
Peter Matthews
Peter began his career as an actor and storyteller in Canada, performing in historical vignettes, Shakespearean tragedies and improvisational theatre before transitioning to writing full-time. He believes that the deepest truths are often found in fiction, and his stories often explore the themes of identity, self-exploration, and the complexity of human emotions.
Copyright 2024. The Elixir Effect. All Rights Reserved.