King of the Hoboes - Coming VERY Soon?

If you've been following me on Facebook, you saw the blurb for Hezbollah get posted yesterday. Only Create Space sent me an e-mail reminding me that King of the Hoboes was ready to launch. Who'd have thought??? Well, here's the Hoboes blurb...

King of the Hoboes is an action/adventure crime thriller centered on the exploits of Veronika Heydrich, an undercover cop investigating a possible conspiracy plot within the homeless community in New York City. Adolf Hyatt is a charismatic activist known as King of the Hoboes throughout the Hobo Underground. He orchestrates a series of non-violent Days of Defiance throughout the City bringing international attention to the plight of the homeless population. Only the New York Police Department suspects that Hyatt’s ambitions may lead to ever greater demonstrations of power. Veronika is offered a chance at a promotion to detective rank, and she and her partner Evan Carlow are assigned to uncover Hyatt’s plans and depose the King of the Hoboes.

 

The story is as much an in-depth portrayal of the homeless community as a fast-paced suspense thriller. Veronika goes from her yuppie lifestyle to that of a homeless person, roaming around with a travel bag and panhandled money to establish credibility on the City streets. She learns firsthand of the virtually non-existent accommodations for homeless women, as well as the difficulty of going without the basic necessities that everyday citizens take for granted. She comes across Khalid Sangani, a homeless teen who makes his way as a male prostitute. Together they work their way into Hyatt’s network as Veronika tries to find a way to take him down.

 

Khalid was a witness to the murder of four hoboes who had been sent by the Hobo Underground to censure Hyatt for his activities. He keeps the secret in fear for his life, realizing that Veronika herself might become a victim of one of Hyatt’s hardcore Disciples. Comprised of homeless war veterans, the twelve-man squad will stop at nothing to protect Hyatt and their secret criminal enterprise. Each of them is a gang leader earning money through drugs, prostitution, robbery and burglary, enforcing their networks with beatings and murder. Evan, who is tailing Veronika on the street, is discovered by the Disciples and nearly killed in a knife attack. He refuses to be taken off the case and continues to follow her at risk of his life.

 

After suffering a sexual assault in a hazing ritual, Veronika and Khalid are accepted into the Inner Circle and learn of Hyatt’s plans. The ultimate Day of Defiance entails leaving cardboard boxes full of counterfeit money in strategic areas around Manhattan in an attempt to paralyze the local economy. Hyatt announces that there will be a number of great lessons to be learned from this Great Day, though in reality it is serving as a cover for a car bomb attack by an Al Qaeda cell for which Hyatt is being paid a small fortune. Veronika, unaware of the bomb plot, is determined to stop the counterfeit gambit and have Hyatt arrested once she has enough evidence.

 

It is Hyatt’s megalomania that brings the project to ruin as he sets up a midnight rally at a secret meeting place where the entire homeless community is asked to attend. Hyatt reveals his long-range plans to bring the city to its knees, presenting a list of demands to the City regardless of the unbearable cost. 

 

Set against a realistic backdrop along the streets of New York, the plight of the homeless becomes an integral part of the storyline in this fast-paced thriller. Crime novel enthusiasts and current events followers will find King of the Hoboes one to be long remembered.  

Sabrina Brooks: An Anti-Hero In Literature

         In referring to Nightcrawler’s Sabrina Brooks as an anti-hero in literature, we consider the definition of the tragic hero according to Aristotle. It is one of noble birth, affected by the hamartia (tragic flaw) that leads to his downfall, as well as the perepeteia (reversal of fortune) that precipitates his fall. His actions result in an epiphany of self-awareness and self-knowledge, and it leads to the audience’s feelings of pity and fear for the sympathetic character. Aristotle noted that “A man cannot become a hero until he can see the root of his own downfall.”

        The modern-day anti-hero can be seen as a flawed character, disillusioned by society, seeking redemption for the greater good of society. They are misunderstood by society, and their more distasteful characteristics are tempered by their nobler traits. They are often conflicted by their own moral complexities and rejection of contemporary values. Some literary critics point to Jay Gatsby (The Great Gatsby) and Willy Loman (Death Of A Salesman) as examples of anti-heroes in literary fiction.

          Sabrina’s birth is not quite noble though she is the heiress of the Brooks Chemical Company, keeping his legacy alive in assuming his place as CEO upon his death. She is depicted as a party girl before taking on her new responsibilities, reminiscent of the rogue Prince Hal transforming into King Henry IV in Shakespeare’s play. We may consider her hamartia as being her Christian character, which compels her to ‘do the right thing’ regardless of consequence. The perepeteia can be seen as the effect of her actions as the Nightcrawler. Most of her forays result in an unfavorable long-range outcome though her alter ego does resolve the immediate problem at hand. Sabrina’s vulnerability as a young woman with a Christian nature inspires empathy, and she continues her actions as a vigilante though clearly seeing the negative impact it has on her personal life.

       Her flaws as a party girl are continually alluded to by her mentor, Jon Aeppli, who reminds her what might have been if she had pursued her degree in chemistry rather than a career in law enforcement. There is also the guilt of knowing her father died of a broken heart. She is disillusioned by the inefficiency of the legal system and the inability of the government to apprehend the terrorists and criminals threatening society. She seeks to redeem herself as a wasted talent through the Nightcrawler, giving back whatever she may have squandered in her partying days. Both Jon and boyfriend Hoyt Wexford see it as a suicidal death wish, and her successes serve to reinforce their fears though she desperately seeks their approval. Pastor Matt Mitchell is her spiritual advisor, emphasizing her value as a Christian activist as opposed to a vigilante. He also seeks to dissuade her but cannot betray her trust according to pastor-penitent privilege.

      Her title as the ‘World Most Unlikeliest Superhero’, though grammatically questionable, may hold true for certain reasons. She may well be the only female superhero to be mistakenly identified as a male, as no one is able to discern otherwise due to her face and figure-concealing apparel. She is often swayed by her female emotions in acting on instinct when faced with a problem. She also convinces Jon, Hoyt and Matt that she will never go Nightcrawling again, though Nightcrawler II is already in the works. 

Nightcrawler II - Coming This Year?

Well, I haven't done any sequels yet, but Nightcrawler is destined to be a series. Sabrina Brooks is not to be denied. I've envisioned her as a heroine in the tradition of my grandmother Nora Brooks, a pioneer woman featured in my upcoming family saga, Generations. Bree is facing yet another terror threat in her own backyard as the World's Most Unlikeliest Superhero begins a new adventure...

 Nightcrawler II – Tryzub is the second installment of the series featuring Sabrina Brooks, the heiress of the Brooks Chemical Company. A miracle cure for AIDS has been developed by Russian researchers, and the Trident Corporation has been authorized by the Russian Federation to conduct beta testing in America. The BCC has been awarded a government contract, and Sabrina becomes involved in an international web of intrigue as terrorists use the project as a subterfuge for an attack on American soil.

Her relationship with Hoyt Wexford has developed so that her Nightcrawling has given place to her fiancee’s promising NYPD career. Yet she grows intrigued as Russian forensics expert Alex Tretiak has been assigned to Hoyt’s Organized Crime Unit in a joint operation to pre-empt a drug war between the Russian Mob and the mysterious Chechen-based Tryzub. Sabrina’s female instincts alert her as to possible ulterior motives though Alex begins overshadowing Hoyt as the Unit’s top cop. She is also concerned about the meteoric rise of Superfecta Manufacturing. Her colleague Benigno Terrazas has turned the company’s fortunes around and is now poised to produce the new serum upon completion by BCC. Yet Sabrina grows suspicious and becomes increasingly concerned for Benny’s well-being.

The situation at BCC grows even stickier as the FDA assigns Russian researcher Tatiana Zhukov to work with her staff in completing the HALT-116 serum. Sabrina finds herself amidst a conflict as the gay activists on her staff are pushing desperately to have the project completed. Yet Tatiana appears overly cautious as she is under enormous pressure by the Russian Government to earn credit for delivering a flawless product to the world market. Her executive manager, Jon Aeppli, suspects that the BCC’s computer network may have been hacked but has no solid proof. The volatile situation exacerbates the stress caused by Hoyt’s situation as well as her concerns for her friend Benny.

Sabrina begins to suspect there is a link between the difficulties faced by Hoyt and Benny. Hoyt learns of a spike in the hostilities between the Russian Mob and the Chechen Mob being caused by the introduction of the White Dragon, a super-narcotic appearing on the streets of NYC. Top-ranking members of the Russian Mob are being murdered, and Hoyt begins to suspect that these are taking on the nature of politically-oriented assassinations. Classified information appears to have leaked from the OCU which causes Hoyt to suspect that Tretiak may be a double agent. Yet his appeals to his superiors fall upon deaf ears in light of the accolades being showered upon the NYPD for their efficiency in cracking down on the Russian Mob. Sabrina offers to help but Hoyt insists her Nightcrawling days are at an end.

Acting against Hoyt’s wishes, the Nightcrawler is back on the streets searching for clues. Sabrina soon finds a straight and narrow trail of fentanyl smuggling leading to Superfecta Manufacturing. She begins to suspect that Benny’s new director of operations, Grigori Markoff, may be the reason for the Company’s sudden change in fortune. She also suspects that he may be a link to the drug wars and possibly to the Chechen Mob itself.

Straight from modern-day headlines yet speculating about possible developments in world affairs of tomorrow, the storylines of Nightcrawler II – Tryzub promise readers all the elements of an instant John Reinhard Dizon action-adventure classic.

"Nightcrawler" On Sale At Black Rose!!!

Well, Nightcrawler just hit the market today, get your copy today...

http://www.blackrosewriting.com/action/adventure/nightcrawler

And, guess what's in store for Spring/Summer 2014???

Nightcrawler II – Tryzub is the second installment of the series featuring Sabrina Brooks, the heiress of the Brooks Chemical Company. A miracle cure for AIDS has been developed by Russian researchers, and the Trident Corporation has been authorized by the Russian Federation to conduct beta testing in America. The BCC has been awarded a government contract, and Sabrina becomes involved in an international web of intrigue as terrorists use the project as a subterfuge for an attack on American soil.

Her relationship with Hoyt Wexford has developed so that her 

Nightcrawling has given place to her fiancee’s promising NYPD 

career. Yet she grows intrigued as Russian forensics expert Alex 

Tretiak has been assigned to Hoyt’s Organized Crime Unit in a joint 

operation to pre-empt a drug war between the Russian Mob and the 

mysterious Chechen-based Tryzub. Sabrina’s female instincts alert 

her as to possible ulterior motives though Alex begins 

overshadowing Hoyt as the Unit’s top cop. She is also concerned 

about the meteoric rise of Superfecta Manufacturing. Her colleague 

Benigno Terrazas has turned the company’s fortunes around and is 

now poised to produce the new serum upon completion by BCC. 

Yet Sabrina grows suspicious and becomes increasingly concerned 

for Benny’s well-being.

The situation at BCC grows even stickier as the FDA assigns 

Russian researcher Tatiana Zhukov to work with her staff in 

completing the HALT-116 serum. Sabrina finds herself amidst a 

conflict as the gay activists on her staff are pushing desperately to 

have the project completed. Yet Tatiana appears overly cautious as 

she is under enormous pressure by the Russian Government to earn 

credit for delivering a flawless product to the world market. Her 

executive manager, Jon Aeppli, suspects that the BCC’s computer 

network may have been hacked but has no solid proof. The volatile 

situation exacerbates the stress caused by Hoyt’s situation as well 

as her concerns for her friend Benny.

Sabrina begins to suspect there is a link between the difficulties faced by Hoyt and Benny. Hoyt learns of a spike in the hostilities between the Russian Mob and the Chechen Mob being caused by the introduction of the White Dragon, a super-narcotic appearing on the streets of NYC. Top-ranking members of the Russian Mob are being murdered, and Hoyt begins to suspect that these are taking on the nature of politically-oriented assassinations. Classified information appears to have leaked from the OCU which causes Hoyt to suspect that Tretiak may be a double agent. Yet his appeals to his superiors fall upon deaf ears in light of the accolades being showered upon the NYPD for their efficiency in cracking down on the Russian Mob. Sabrina offers to help but Hoyt insists her Nightcrawling days are at an end.

Acting against Hoyt’s wishes, the Nightcrawler is back on the streets searching for clues. Sabrina soon finds a straight and narrow trail of fentanyl smuggling leading to Superfecta Manufacturing. She begins to suspect that Benny’s new director of operations, Grigori Markoff, may be the reason for the Company’s sudden change in fortune. She also suspects that he may be a link to the drug wars and possibly to the Chechen Mob itself.

Straight from modern-day headlines yet speculating about possible 

developments in world affairs of tomorrow, the storylines of 

Nightcrawler II – Tryzub promise readers all the elements of an 

instant John Reinhard Dizon action-adventure classic.

RELIGION vs. PHILOSOPHY IN "THE BAT"

Here's something the kiddies might be able to use for their next book report...

         In “The Bat”, we see an ongoing debate between Christianity and existentialism throughout the novel. In the opening chapter, the omniscient narrative indicates that New York City has been heavily impacted by a Great Recession, a rise in gang activity and an increase in illegal drug use. In Chapter Two we find Dr. Coulter addressing his therapy group at the Harbor VA, criticizing the vigilantes who have emerged in taking the law into their own hands. We next see how existentialism has become a resurging philosophical trend throughout the City. Different existentialist theories are presented by the protagonists, yet none prove as contradictory as Richard Garrison’s return to the evangelical church. It proves symbolic as Garrison and Coulter, who have exhibited a subtle rivalry, now become representative of a struggle between Christian theory and secular humanism. Only both characters prove lacking in conviction as their solutions to their difficulties seem to contradict their professed values.

          Through its depiction of a failed bureaucratic society, the novel contemplates the solutions available to a population when the government proves weak and inefficient. It reflects the Kubler-Ross model as the City experiences a series of emotional stages in coping with its grief. We see the state of denial as Central Park is filled with activities and celebrations by day, only to give place to the marauding street gangs at night. Anger is expressed in the media and the civil protests at City Hall and throughout the City over the skyrocketing crime statistics. There is bargaining between the City officials and gang leaders in trying to avert a mandatory curfew and other ‘extreme’ measures. A general feeling of depression descends over the populace as the vigilante backlash leads to a shocking string of serial killings and mass murders of gangsters. Finally the citizens band together in mutual support reflecting the Christian spirit of acceptance that has stabilized Richard and Darla Mc Carthy’s lives.

          Yet we see how both Coulter and Garrison fail to practice what they preach. As Coulter proceeds with his social experiments, he becomes manipulative and unconcerned with the safety or well-being of his subjects. It contradicts the existentialist principles of every person’s right to forge their own destiny in their own world. Coulter’s colleague in the military DMX Project, Jesse Jeffers, acts as an extension of Coulter’s will by enslaving people with his ‘super drug’. Garrison, alternately, becomes more deeply immersed in the Christian faith until the suicide of Holly Westlake causes him to lose his resolve. He turns to the Bat in learning the details of both Holly and her husband’s deaths, then uses the information to eradicate a key member of a Mafia crew as well as the Sudoku Gang. It can be argued that the final outcome symbolized a victory of Christian values over those of secular humanism. Yet it could be interpreted as the failure of value systems when tested under extreme conditions.

          The moral of the story after the climactic confrontation between Garrison and Coulter appears to be the victory of good vs. evil. Only the weaknesses exhibited by the major characters suggest that in deviating from their belief system, they not only suffer increased personal loss but create a negative reflection on the core values they appear to represent. 

The Role of Gender in "The Bat"

Here's a short essay I wrote for an upcoming blog spot...

The role of gender in The Bat is greatly significant as we consider the impact of female protagonists throughout the narrative. The tone of discontent is resonant as Brenda Hammond realizes she is being exploited by Chief Joel Madden in the exchange of information as an undercover operative for the detective badge she desires. Her romantic involvement with Johnny Sullivan, a member of the group of interest, is being leveraged by Madden to his own benefit in trying to win Brenda’s affections. She is also stressed by having to compromise Richard Garrison and Dr. Coulter, conflicted in betraying their personal trust while pursuing her professional objectives. She compares her situation with others in her department and realizes she is being exploited as a female rather than being able to rely on sheer ability to succeed in the investigation.

Holly Westlake rejects the gender norms in her act of suicide caused by the abusive relationships she has endured. Her deceased husband gave her a life of uncertainty and risk as a professional gambler, and after his murder she existed under the threat of blackmail as the Mob pressured her for her husband’s ‘black book’. In turning to Dr. Coulter, she finds a lover and a therapist who betrays her by using his experimental DMX-1313 drug on her. The omniscient narrative implies that Holly killed herself out of desperation. Yet scholars might consider the possibility that Holly may have sacrificed her life to have placed the ‘smoking gun’ in the untouchable Doctor’s hand.   

We find Darla Mc Carthy reaffirming the gender norm as the stabilizing female character in the novel. She takes the initiative in kindling a relationship with Richard Garrison, then recedes as he reestablishes contact with his own emotions. Unlike Tommy O’Hara’s girlfriend Jill Masterson, she succeeds in breaking down Richard’s walls while strengthening both their relationship and his own self-perception. She leads Brenda and Jill by example in improving their own relationships without being didactic or self-righteous. Darla becomes a ‘mother earth’ figure of serenity as opposed to Brenda being a damsel in distress and Holly opting out rather than seeking resolution to her struggles.

The Bat continues in the tradition of John Reinhard Dizon’s works in discussing the role of gender in society and literature, examining the cause and effect of cultural projections on women and how personality, psychological outlook and overall character determines social outcomes. The ‘second class citizen’ viewpoint is not only questioned but rejected in this essential insight on female perspectives. 

Happy New Year - The Bat Begins?

Well, let me wish a happy and blessed New Year to all you Turk Watchers who have put me past the 1,000-hit mark in a matter of weeks at the end of 2013. I just hope everyone's spreading word about Missouri's most notorious starving artist.

For those who haven't seen my Facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/johnreinharddizonUSA), I put up The Bat (An Existential Fable) at fifteen minutes to midnight, making it my seventh novel of 2013 (what about those lucky/unlucky numbers). The Bat? The Bat Begins?? Has JRD sunk this low this quick???

Not quite. This one began brewing thirty years ago, back when Batman was still about the cheesy Adam West TV reruns. I was thinking about the Vincent Price movie, a man in black wearing a fedora, mask, trenchcoat and gloves. So sue me. Only my guy's a former Green Beret sick of the drugs and violence. He interrupts a rape in Central Park on his first patrol, and the legend begins. No Bat-gear, just a couple of miniature baseball bats and Kevlar protection. He ends up opening Pandora's Box as deadly imitators arise, and backs off though suspecting someone's behind the wave of vigilantism. Cut to the chase.

What readers will enjoy is the layered detail of this one, just before The Standard, after which I started writing smaller novels and feeding them to the publishing house sharks. Great storyline, lots of great subplots, complex characters, psychological angles, and more than a few mysteries: who is the Bat? Who is the Frogman? Who is the Mole Man?

Go on and spring $2.99, guys. You won't be disappointed. Do you do reviews? I'll shoot you a free copy.