BookView Review

A wickedly playful, rock and roll satire with a Faustian twist…

Gross’s debut novel delves deeply into the frenzied landscape of 1970s New York, a city torn apart by economic turmoil and rampant violence. 1976. A once vibrant New York City has been reduced to a desolate wasteland, plagued by graffiti, garbage, and rampant crime. The Satanic Vanguard, a radical group, is terrorizing the city: they have kidnapped the mayor and set Coney Island ablaze. Amidst this chaos, there shines a glimmer of hope – the Yankees, led by rookie sensation Nick “The Swan” Spillage, fight their way to the World Series. But even this ray of hope is threatened by Satan and his followers, who aim to crush the last remnants of optimism in the city. The things go haywire further as they target a young couple in their diabolical scheme.

Through the intertwining storylines of Joan and Elliot, as well as baseball rookie Nick “The Swan” Spillage, Gross paints a vivid portrait of counterculture in the midst of a societal hangover. As Joan becomes obsessed with The Swan, she unknowingly strikes a deal that leads her on a journey of self-discovery and identity. Meanwhile, Elliot grapples with his own crisis of faith and purpose. Gross expertly weaves together elements of 1960s counterculture, political commentary, and romance to create a gritty yet poetic portrayal of New York City. With engaging dialogue and vibrant descriptions, the novel is both an ode to the city’s resilience and a powerful exploration of redemption.

A must-read for anyone seeking an immersive literary experience rooted in the heart of one of America’s most iconic cities.

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