What It All Means Book 1
by Ralph Riccie
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Pub Date Jul 31 2025 | Archive Date Jan 10 2026
Ralph Napolitano | Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), Members' Titles
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Description
A woman’s suicide leaves her 12-year-old son motherless, but in the afterlife, she learns the real reasons why she took her own life. And as the abuses she suffered as a young child, long buried in her subconscious, come to light, she realizes the evil that preyed upon her is now focused on her son. To save him, she needs to understand and forgive her own transgressions first, to be a better mother in death than she ever was in life. Together, they may be able to turn the tide in the battle. But time is running out, and those forces of evil are closing in, trying to bring her son, who has a special power, to their side, or kill him if they fail.
Whatever your feelings are about life and death, this book will challenge any preconceived notions you might hold.
Advance Praise
An innovative and fresh look at why we exist on Earth, and what happens when we pass to the hereafter. Wrapped in a compelling story about a deceased mother and her living son, this tale of their roles in the eternal battle between good and evil makes for both a rousing and inspiring narrative
Available Editions
| EDITION | Paperback |
| ISBN | 9798999002105 |
| PRICE | $14.99 (USD) |
| PAGES | 147 |
Links
Available on NetGalley
Average rating from 5 members
Featured Reviews
Reviewer 1905717
I devoured this book in a day! It drew me in within the 1st chapter and I can't wait to see what happens next!
Reviewer 1905726
Ralph Riccie’s *What It All Means: Book 1* is a poetic look into life, death, and the spiritual powers that shape us. By mixing dark fantasy with philosophy, Riccie comes up with a story that is both emotional and thought-provoking.
🧠 Premise & Themes
The story centers on a young boy dealing with the death of his mother. Her suicide sends her into an afterlife of truths, a chance at redemption, and a war between good and evil. She finds the buried traumas that caused her death and must face the evil powers now after her son, who has a strange power that could change everything.
Riccie's spin on the afterlife isn't preachy or corny. Instead, it's a study of forgiveness, pain passed down through families, and the chance to heal after death. The book asks us to think about what is right and wrong and challenges our ideas about spiritual fairness, encouraging readers to rethink what it means to be saved.
✍️ Writing Style
The writing is clear but moving, with bits of strong emotion that add to the story. Riccie balances thought with action, making the book easy to get into without losing its complex ideas. The story moves quickly, and things happen in a way that makes sense, mirroring the character's spiritual walk.
💡 Strengths
New idea: A new view on life after death and spiritual battles.
Emotional story: The relationship between mother and son is sweet, sad, and, in the end, redeeming.
Deep thinking: Asks hard questions about trauma, what we leave behind, and what evil is.
⚠️ Considerations
People wanting typical horror or fantasy may find Riccie's style more thoughtful. The book focuses a lot on deep thinking, which may not be for those wanting quick action.
⭐ Verdict
*What It All Means: Book 1* is a strong first book that isn't afraid to ask tough questions. It's great for readers who like stories with heart and deep thought. With a 4.8-star rating on Goodreads, it's already a hit with those who like stories of redemption and big struggles.
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Nonfiction (Adult), Parenting, Families, Relationships, Self-Help
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