Author Guillermo X. Márquez, known for his true-crime horror novella 'EVIL'S EDEN: Only Murders in Los Angeles,' is set to release his latest work, 'DISPOSSESSED: A Very L.A. Ghost Story,' on October 30. The novel, described as a supernatural comedy, centers on a young Hispanic Angeleno, Alex Olvera, and his girlfriend Tempest Wirth as they navigate the treacherous waters of homeownership in Los Angeles.
The story unfolds as Alex and Tempest secretly hunt for an apartment against their parents' wishes. Their search leads them to a dilapidated Victorian mansion available on a rent-to-own basis. Tempest becomes enamored with the property after touching an antique Victrola, and soon the couple is trapped in a cycle of repairs, financial strain, and potential haunting. As their finances unravel, Tempest falls under the influence of a malevolent, ghostly entity that wants Alex out so it can claim Tempest for itself.
According to the press release, Márquez weaves together themes of "depravity, debauchery, life's firsts, infidelity, inequality, broken hearts, oppression, possession, corporate takeovers, land theft, privilege, paucity, murder most foul, family feuds, friendship, the high cost of living, and kicking demon ass" into a comedic narrative. The novel also delves into the grisly history of a fictional robber baron family, tying modern-day struggles to historical injustices.
Praise for the book from Books2Flicks.com calls it "an irreverent coming-of-age comedy with the chills of slow-burn horror" and a "perfect holiday evergreen." The novel is published by Books Illuminated, LLC, a publisher that focuses on rapid turnaround and ancillary market potential, as detailed on BooksIlluminated.com.
Márquez, who goes by GX, draws inspiration from his own experiences couch-surfing in a haunted Beverly Hills mansion. His website, GXMarquez.com, provides more information about his work. 'DISPOSSESSED' is available in softcover and hardcover starting October 30, with purchasing options at DispossessedNovel.com.
The novel's release timing, just before Halloween and the holiday season, positions it as a unique blend of spooky and festive. By using a haunted house as a metaphor for the dark side of the American dream, Márquez offers a satirical take on Los Angeles's real estate market and social inequalities. The story's focus on a young interracial couple struggling against supernatural and financial forces resonates with contemporary issues of gentrification and housing affordability in the city.
'DISPOSSESSED' promises to entertain readers with its blend of horror, humor, and social commentary, making it a notable addition to the genre of supernatural comedy.
