Raw, poignant, and thoroughly immersive…
Set against the gritty vibrance of 1970s Chicago, Sanford’s poignant novel offers a compelling exploration of ambition, identity, and the relentless pursuit of creative fulfillment in an indifferent world. Mitch Lanier arrives in 1977 Chicago chasing musical fame but soon finds himself delivering pizzas alongside the eccentric Corey McGowan after a failed relationship. Together, they launch the New American Café, a venture meant to blend ambition with artistry. However, their plans go awry when they cross paths with a dangerous drug lord, forcing Mitch and his friends to navigate a treacherous clash between survival and creativity.
The novel vividly captures the raw energy and poignant melancholy of a city caught between its storied past and an uncertain, rapidly changing future. Chicago’s icy streets, smoky clubs, and bustling pizza joints form a rich, textured backdrop for Mitch’s journey. Sanford’s prose is sharp and evocative, balancing lyrical introspection with engaging dialogue that gives the characters depth and authenticity. Mitch’s world, shaped by pizza deliveries and sporadic gigs, provides an intimate look at the intersections of creativity, love, and self-discovery. Supporting characters like Corey, whose risky dreams mask a complex personality, and Melanie, Mitch’s enigmatic ex, further enrich the story.
Sanford’s use of a dual timeline, alternating between Mitch’s present and flashbacks to his formative years in Chapel Hill, deepens the narrative. This structure highlights how past choices and relationships shape Mitch’s current path, adding emotional weight and complexity to his journey. Themes of resilience, disillusionment, and the cost of chasing dreams are woven throughout, prompting readers to reflect on the sacrifices inherent in creative pursuits. This poignant, thought-provoking exploration of art, human connection, and the enduring hope for something greater makes for a stunner.
Publisher: Odeon Press
Publication date: October 15, 2024
396 pages
List price: $14.95 (trade paperback)
ISBN: 978-0-9857445-6-4
Ebook price and ISBN: $4.99, 978-0-9857445-8-8
Availabilities: Amazon paperback and Kindle, Barnes & Noble Nook, Apple iPad-iPhone, Kobo
Distributor: Ingram
