Rich, sharp, and deeply provocative; a laugh riot.
Ring’s latest novel is a razor-sharp satire that dissects the absurdities of modern life, blending biting wit with incisive social commentary. The Gregory family, once prosperous, now finds solace in leasing their land—until the discovery of a rare, handwritten Elizabethan version of Romeo and Juliet, hidden within their home, disrupts their fragile peace. This comedic twist, in which the lovers survive, unleashes forces that threaten their hard-earned stability, forcing the Gregorys to adapt or risk losing everything once again.
Set against the chaotic backdrop of the theater world, the novel explores the tension between artistic integrity and commercial success while skewering the impact of technology on human connection. Ring’s humor is sharp. He uses rapid-fire dialogue both for laughs and to dissect the struggles of authenticity in a profit-driven digital age. The characters are vividly flawed and relatable, from Rick’s self-deprecating charm to the compelling arcs of Sarah, Mary Lou, and Derek. Maureen’s pragmatism balances the whimsy, while Sarah Bird’s bold charisma and Canon Stewart’s calm authority drive the narrative forward. The pacing alternates between chaotic comedic moments and introspective scenes, effectively building tension through personal struggles and corporate dilemmas. While some readers may feel that detailed exposition slows the plot and that key climactic moments rush by, strategic cliffhangers at chapter ends keep the urgency alive. At its core, the novel delivers a sharp critique of how business, art, and technology intertwine to influence humanity. Through incisive satire, Ring lays bare corporate greed, the commodification of creativity, and the dehumanizing effects of digital culture. Engaging and witty, the novel ultimately celebrates the resilience of the human spirit—messy, irreverent, and imperfect—against all odds.
Pub date September 13, 2024
Grinder
ISBN 978-1738095797
Price $9.99 (USD) Paperback, $3.67 Kindle edition