Snake on a Red Velvet Throne is a powerful blend of short story, memoir, and novella that examines what it means to survive the grip of another’s control. In “Umbilical” a man trapped in a psychological stranglehold must decide if what he believes is real or imagined. A woman shakes loose from her obsession with a charismatic older man in “A Lion’s Grace,” uncovering not only the truth about him but also about herself. In “The Door” a young social worker dares to confront the intimidating boss who may be part of a murder cover-up. Alongside these are five other unforgettable stories that expose the many faces of emotional abuse and what it takes to break free.