Rise of the Black Hand FAQ's
1. What is the basic premise of the novel, Rise of the Black Hand?
Rise of the Black Hand follows the perspective of young FBI agent Thomas Morelli, in a futuristic Seattle, Washington, as he tangles with a brutal criminal organization known as The Black Hand. Despite being set in the future, the novel has a retro, noir feel to it that gives the book some contrasting elements readers are sure to enjoy. Inspired by the radio serials and pulps of the early to mid 1900’s, the action is fast paced, dialog is crisp, and the pace brisk, delivered with a tongue in cheek nod to the past. Readers will get a glimpse of some very real social and technological issues we are sure to face in the coming century, but the entertainment and laughs never stop, even on the last page. In short, the book is equal parts Mike Hammer, Dick Tracy, and Blade Runner all rolled into one, with the added bonus of humor.
2. What sets this apart from other science fiction or detective novels?
The one element that most readers notice immediately is the humor. Written in the first person and narrated by the novel’s hero, there are numerous opportunities for him to deliver his deadpan humor that fits perfectly with the style of the genre. Readers will start laughing on the first page, even while Tommy is getting pounded by a few thugs. But make no mistake, Rise of the Black Hand is not a comedy. It is a detective novel, though in an unorthodox setting. it is dark. it is gritty. The action is brutal, and just reading about the brawls will make your jaw sore and your ribs ache. Then there are the gun fights…
3. Why will readers identify so strongly with protagonist Thomas Morelli?
Unlike “hard-boiled” detectives, Tommy is more of a regular guy. When he gets in fights—which is often—he is likely to get his backside kicked. Readers see that he’s human—not superhuman. He is vulnerable, and when something bad happens, it’s not a foregone conclusion that he’s going to work his way out of it.
Tommy also has many qualities that most readers identify with. He’s fiercely loyal, almost to a fault. He has a strong sense of justice, though it often conflicts with what the law says is “right or wrong.” He is the kind of guy that would never take a bribe, no matter how large—but he’d grab the money off a dead perp without batting an eye. In short, Thomas Morelli is human, and readers can appreciate that.
4. Will there be any follow up works related to Rise of the Black Hand?
I certainly hope so. The original story arch included enough material for four novels, though customer demand will certainly determine if the second, third and fourth novels ever see print. I've already completed the manuscript for the second in the series, and plan to start the third in the near future.
5. Who are the black hand? Are they real?
Yes, they are! The Black hand was a criminal organization that existed decades ago. They were responsible for the assassination of archduke ferdinand, which set into motion a tragic series of events that triggered world war one. eventually, all of the members were rounded up and executed. But if that is the case, why are they in the book? That, dear reader, is the mystery you will solve in Rise of the Black Hand.
6. Where can I find a sample chapter?
Right here, good readers!
7. Where can I purchase the novel?
Rise of the Black Hand is available for purchase on Amazon.com for the Kindle and print editions.
Rise of the Black Hand follows the perspective of young FBI agent Thomas Morelli, in a futuristic Seattle, Washington, as he tangles with a brutal criminal organization known as The Black Hand. Despite being set in the future, the novel has a retro, noir feel to it that gives the book some contrasting elements readers are sure to enjoy. Inspired by the radio serials and pulps of the early to mid 1900’s, the action is fast paced, dialog is crisp, and the pace brisk, delivered with a tongue in cheek nod to the past. Readers will get a glimpse of some very real social and technological issues we are sure to face in the coming century, but the entertainment and laughs never stop, even on the last page. In short, the book is equal parts Mike Hammer, Dick Tracy, and Blade Runner all rolled into one, with the added bonus of humor.
2. What sets this apart from other science fiction or detective novels?
The one element that most readers notice immediately is the humor. Written in the first person and narrated by the novel’s hero, there are numerous opportunities for him to deliver his deadpan humor that fits perfectly with the style of the genre. Readers will start laughing on the first page, even while Tommy is getting pounded by a few thugs. But make no mistake, Rise of the Black Hand is not a comedy. It is a detective novel, though in an unorthodox setting. it is dark. it is gritty. The action is brutal, and just reading about the brawls will make your jaw sore and your ribs ache. Then there are the gun fights…
3. Why will readers identify so strongly with protagonist Thomas Morelli?
Unlike “hard-boiled” detectives, Tommy is more of a regular guy. When he gets in fights—which is often—he is likely to get his backside kicked. Readers see that he’s human—not superhuman. He is vulnerable, and when something bad happens, it’s not a foregone conclusion that he’s going to work his way out of it.
Tommy also has many qualities that most readers identify with. He’s fiercely loyal, almost to a fault. He has a strong sense of justice, though it often conflicts with what the law says is “right or wrong.” He is the kind of guy that would never take a bribe, no matter how large—but he’d grab the money off a dead perp without batting an eye. In short, Thomas Morelli is human, and readers can appreciate that.
4. Will there be any follow up works related to Rise of the Black Hand?
I certainly hope so. The original story arch included enough material for four novels, though customer demand will certainly determine if the second, third and fourth novels ever see print. I've already completed the manuscript for the second in the series, and plan to start the third in the near future.
5. Who are the black hand? Are they real?
Yes, they are! The Black hand was a criminal organization that existed decades ago. They were responsible for the assassination of archduke ferdinand, which set into motion a tragic series of events that triggered world war one. eventually, all of the members were rounded up and executed. But if that is the case, why are they in the book? That, dear reader, is the mystery you will solve in Rise of the Black Hand.
6. Where can I find a sample chapter?
Right here, good readers!
7. Where can I purchase the novel?
Rise of the Black Hand is available for purchase on Amazon.com for the Kindle and print editions.