Author BIO:
David S. Grant is the author of ten books including “Corporate Porn”, “Bleach|Blackout”, “Hollywood Ending”, and “Rock Stars”. His latest novel, “Blood: The New Red”, is now available. David lives and writes his weekly rock, travel, and NBA columns from New York City. For more information go to http://www.davidsgrant.com Twitter: @david_s_grant
Writing the Dark Side of Fiction
The dark side of fiction means different things to people. There is shocking fiction, which may try to scare or force a reaction. Transgressive fiction often focuses on taboo subjects and is designed to make the reader think and possible view a scenario in a new way. For me, I often associate “dark” fiction with reality, exploring beneath the surface and taking the reader on a journey into insane (or perverse) thoughts, a lack of emotion, and of course, all of those bad habits we try to hide in our daily life.
Humor is a great compliment to dark undertones. Adding funny dialogue allows the reader to focus on the overall situation, and not just focus on the depressing reality. In my latest novel, BLOOD: The New Red, the main character, Mickey, is an ex-adult film star attempting to regain his fame as a model. The real story isn’t about modeling, Mickey’s Vicodin habit, or his past life of porn. The story is about decisions. Mickey is forced to take responsibility for his choices. Often, as in the case of real life we make choices and after the fact, there may be opinions, changes, or even regret based on those choices; however, in the moment there is no judgment, only choice, and hopefully a few laughs along the way.
Life can be messy and this is how I like my fiction. No need for a Hollywood ending if the story doesn’t warrant one. Most tales have a character that comes upon a fork in the road. One way is greatness, lollipops, and fields of flowers. I like to send my characters down the other path, if they make it through, they are stronger for it. Just like in real life.
In my latest book, the “dark side” is a backdrop for Mickey to come to terms with good vs. evil; a book that attempts to straddle real life scenarios and “Grindhouse type” fantasy. As one reviewer put it, “If you enjoy romance novels, this book may not be for you.”
For everyone else, please check out my new novel: BLOOD: The New Red.
David S. Grant
@david_s_grant
BOOK Synopsis:
Blood: The new Red begins at an after party where Mickey, and ex-adult movie star turned supermodel, is aligning himself with one of top Designers of Seventh Avenue. While trying to land a job on the runway Mickey is thrown into the center of a scene where sex is often the motivation, the wine is served by year, and cocaine is back in full force. Juanita, Mickey’s girlfriend is having difficulties staying sober, fully clothed, and off of her famous boyfriend.
Mickey goes to work for Fashion icon Paul Johnson, one of the two top Designers in NYC. The other is Sandy Johnson, another Designer who will stop at nothing including murder to guarantee victory. A runway exhibition has been scheduled for the two to compete in and find out who truly is the best Johnson. Mickey will be Paul’s top model, and Sandy has found a homeless person nicknamed Kung Fu Master to show his line.
In addition to getting his new line in place, Paul Johnson is also buying chain saws, the louder the better, to put the special in this special event.
Did you know that you can’t be sentenced to prison if actively seeking help at a mental facility? Paul Johnson knows this.
Somewhere between the girls, counting Vicodin pills, and show preparation Mickey has grown a conscience and no longer likes what he sees. He believes (and his psychiatrist agrees) that he has the power to change what’s happening around him.
Days before the show Kung Fu Master turns up dead and there is an attempt on Mickey’s life. After a brief period of unconsciousness Mickey is back, is told that Juanita and brother Cheeks are now also dead and that he must continue with the show. After all, what would Steven Tyler do?
The night of the show is laced with celebrities and models on the runway as well as one particular popular day-time talk show host that may or may not be murdered on the runway.
In the end only one Johnson will walk away, although this is temporary as Mickey has the last word.
Right before he pops his last Vicodin.
Thank you so much for stopping by David. Wishing you many sales.
Until Next Time,
O. Keeys
www.okeeys.com
Thanks for the great guest blog David. I will be sure to stay away from the Vicodin...lol
ReplyDeleteO. Keeys