By Jennifer Langford
Ron Franscell’s DEAF ROW tells …a darkly engrossing story with masterful, easy-flowing prose and a clever infusion of humor. The tension builds incrementally to a chilling five-star climax in which Franscell puts his well-honed skill as a true crime author to good use. It gave me goosebumps big time.
— Anne Hillerman, bestselling author of the Leaphorn, Chee, Manuelito mysteries
Ron Franscell, well known for his fastidiously researched true crime nonfiction narratives, found himself stymied by pandemic imposed limitations on travel, access to libraries and courthouses, and the ability to have face-to- face encounters and interviews. His hefty files, 40 years worth of real-life crime journalism, contained more than enough material for inspiration and inclusion in an excellent piece of crime fiction. Much of the content in his newly published novel, Deaf Row, is based on actual case files.
More than a tense mystery and horrifying psychothriller, Deaf Row takes on the inevitability of aging, the fear of becoming meaningless, and the verve that drives souls to continue to give.
Retired, and only wanting some peace, ex-detective Woodrow “Mountain” Bell unexpectedly runs into a long-forgotten unsolved child murder in his retirement town of Midnight, Colorado. His first thought is to let it go, but when he discovers the killer may still be near, he is drawn in and obsessed by this grisly mystery. With help from his group of coffee-drinking buddies — a club of old men who call themselves Deaf Row — Woodrow sets out to overcome the obstacles of time, age, a lack of police resources, and his own personal short-comings. Soon, Woodrow and his group of uniquely skilled buddies find themselves on the way to a head-on collision with a serial butcher.
Horror, humor, and humanity are a gripping combination. You may reach the climax knowing you’ve solved this garish thriller, but hang on! You’re about to be ambushed!
Ron Franscell’s Saturday, May 13 appearances in Pagosa Springs are all in support of the Ruby Sisson Memorial Library Foundation. Proceeds from the day’s events and book sales will benefit the library building campaign and will provide several possible times to hear and learn more about Franscell’s work and experiences.
The day will begin with a 9-11am ‘The Hero’s Journey’ Writer’s Workshop at your Ruby Sisson Library. Ron and aspiring writers will spend the morning exploring the patterns that can transform a novel or screenplay from ordinary to extraordinary. Learn how to tap into something universal about the human experience so your story feels… timeless. Tickets will be $25 per person, and seating is limited to the first 20 students who register.
At 12:30pm, the Library will host a free “Ruby’s Meet-and-Greet Reception with Ron” for patrons to hear Ron talk about his latest novel, Deaf Row. This event will allow library patrons the chance to get the inside scoop on this latest publication. This event will take place at the Ruby Sisson Library and is free of charge. Seating is limited.
Capping the day off, the Main Event from 6-8:30 pm is a Fireside Chat with Ron Franscell, moderated by eminent guest interviewer, Sheriff Mike Le Roux. Come and eavesdrop on their conversation and gain insight into the research and process of writing true crime and crime fiction. With a cash bar and delicious hors d’oeuvres by Christine’s Cuisine, the event will be at the Tennyson Events Center (197 Navajo Trail Dr). Tickets are $40 in advance/$45 at the door, all benefiting the Library Foundation.
Combined tickets for ‘Hero’s Journey’ and the ‘Fireside Chat’ are available online for $55.
Click here to purchase tickets online … credit/debit card only. Cash, check, or credit purchases can be made at the Ruby Sisson Memorial Library. All events will be followed by opportunities for book sales and book signing. Copies of Mr. Franscell’s books are already available for sale at the Ruby Sisson Library, 811 San Juan St.
For more information, call 970-264-2209
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