The new novel has been on the market for about three months so far, and I have noticed that some of its potential target audience seems to be missing out on it. This is likely because of my publisher mostly specializing in apocalyptic and zombie-related stuff, which DESERT BLEEDS RED is most definitely not. If folks are going into the online bookstore looking for adventure tales, or survival fiction, or pulpy fun, or acion-packed extravaganzas, then this novel is just not for them.

If, however, what readers are looking for is realism, absolute visceral terror, striking originality, strangeness, epic storytelling, complex world-building, an accurate representation of modern China, outlands and remote oases, constant wordplay, stomach-churning violence, well-drawn and flawed characters, and a tale more akin to Cormac McCarthy than Stephen King, then perhaps DESERT BLEEDS RED is what they are looking for.

I am extremely proud of the writing that's in DBR, and look forward to the day that this novel finds its target audience. This book is not horror in the common sense of the term. More like literary horror, or just straight magic realism, perhaps. It has been said that the new book is, by far, my darkest novel ever. That is quite a bold statement, because I'd never classify any of the three novels as the feel-good tales of the year. But if you like your fiction dark, and serious while still being quite playful at times, and epic, then give this one a try.

Everyone who has had the chance to read it so far has rated this one four or five stars, and it has also been a critical darling. I'm so proud of that, and thank everyone who has given this weird little romp in the wastelands a chance.

This one is not for the escapists. This is for serious-minded, serious readers with a predisposition for heavy morality tales and bizarre originality.

Desert Bleeds Red