Mental Cruelty

Mental Cruelty: A Novel for Divorced Men by Lee Kronert is a raw and emotionally candid exploration of love, loss, and resilience from the perspective of Lenny, a man grappling with the fallout of his failed marriage. After twenty-five years, the resounding gavel of the judge signals the end of his union with Janine, a relationship that had been strained for decades. Lenny reflects on the turbulence of his marriage, his unsuccessful attempts to salvage it, and the emotional toll of a vindictive divorce. Despite being an educated and successful chiropractor and math teacher, the turmoil in his personal life overshadowed any professional triumphs, leaving him questioning what went wrong.
As Lenny reminisces, the novel delves into the complexities of his life, from the optimism of his youth to the challenges of building a family with Janine. His love for their four children remains steadfast, even as he confronts the emotional wounds inflicted by his marriage’s breakdown. Kronert captures the frustration, heartbreak, and eventual acceptance that come with letting go of shattered dreams. Through Lenny’s unfiltered narrative, readers gain insight into the male perspective of divorce, often a less-explored side of the story.
Ultimately, the story is one of hope and healing. Lenny’s journey proves that even in the wake of profound pain, there is the potential for renewal. As he opens himself to the possibility of love again, he discovers the capacity for growth and the resilience of the human heart. Mental Cruelty is a poignant and empowering tale, offering divorced men a voice while reminding all readers of love’s ability to heal and transform.