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Valhollywood: A Noir Fantasy of Murder in the Afterlife
When rising film star Jake Neumann dies, he finds himself in an afterlife earned not by faith or good works, but by fame. While the fame of an actor is intense, it is also fleeting; when film stars are forgotten on earth, they fall from this heaven.
As Jake is coming to grips with his new reality, he witnesses a tragedy that shakes his new community. He and his friends are caught up in a mystery, leading down a tangled path of magic, mobsters and mayhem. No one is safe in a world where even death may die , and Jake must race to find the key to saving his new home from the threat approaching VALHOLLYWOOD.
As Jake is coming to grips with his new reality, he witnesses a tragedy that shakes his new community. He and his friends are caught up in a mystery, leading down a tangled path of magic, mobsters and mayhem. No one is safe in a world where even death may die , and Jake must race to find the key to saving his new home from the threat approaching VALHOLLYWOOD.
- GenresParanormalMysteryFantasy
471 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 19, 2023
2 people are currently reading
35 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
July 25, 2024
What happens when a murder occurs in the afterlife? That, in a very broad nutshell, is the premise of “Valhollywood” where an up-and-coming actor suddenly finds himself to be a resident of the afterlife, where the populace are the famous and infamous. The story is an homage to the authors love of Golden Era film wrapped up in a noir murder mystery with a very heavy sprinkling of spiritualism—maybe too much, but more on that in a second. Jake, still grappling with the fact that he’s dead and rubbing elbows with Humphrey Bogart, Frank Sinatra, and Ava Gardener, finds himself suddenly thrust in a whodunit murder mystery when one of Valhollywood’s residents actually dies ahead of fading as her fame dwindles to nothingness. Solving that murder and unraveling how it happened was where this novel truly shined! Unfortunately, the detour this book makes left something to be desired.
If you’re a movie buff or a lover of classic film stars, you’ll definitely appreciate all the cameo’s that “Valhollywood” has. I’m not a big film buff, but I did enjoy looking up the unfamiliar names to see that, yes! This person was a huge stage and film star in their time. The book also takes an interesting look at the price of fame and the lengths that people will go to maintain it, which was doubly interesting since all the characters are already dead and know they are dead. Yet their fear of fading, of not losing themselves to the fantasy of what the public remembers them as thanks to their roles or scandals, still remains. As does a fear of the unknown, of what comes when they fade from Valhollywood, and what actually maintains this realm where only celebrities can dwell. So, when a desperate actress ends up dead and no one knows who, or why, or HOW, it happened, it was a really fun little mystery for Jake to explore while unraveling how this realm works. Or it could have been. Unfortunately, the focus of the book kind of, well, loses focus part way through.
Unfortunately, that later half of the book really started to feel its length to me. The author has crafted an intriguing afterlife that has a type of magic to it based in spiritualism. The book meanders away from the murder mystery and the gangsters after Jake to focus in on this secondary plot about the beings keeping Valhollywood functional and focusing on an attempt to unlock a path to those beings and their power. The author attempts to link the original mystery to this but, unfortunately, can’t quite do it in a way that I felt was as gripping as the murder mystery. The pacing slowed dramatically, and then the solving of the original crime ended up feeling lack luster. If the entire subplot with Edmund had been cut, nothing would have been lost, in my opinion. For me, if the story had remained more focused on that supernatural mystery aspect and how it ties into the fame that keeps these actors in Valhollywood, I would have rated this higher. But because of my dwindling interest in Edmund and what he was attempting to do—or stop?—and why Jake even mattered to his goals, and just how much that took away from an otherwise thrilling and action packed story, I’m giving this 3 stars. And thanks to the publisher for sending me a review copy.
If you’re a movie buff or a lover of classic film stars, you’ll definitely appreciate all the cameo’s that “Valhollywood” has. I’m not a big film buff, but I did enjoy looking up the unfamiliar names to see that, yes! This person was a huge stage and film star in their time. The book also takes an interesting look at the price of fame and the lengths that people will go to maintain it, which was doubly interesting since all the characters are already dead and know they are dead. Yet their fear of fading, of not losing themselves to the fantasy of what the public remembers them as thanks to their roles or scandals, still remains. As does a fear of the unknown, of what comes when they fade from Valhollywood, and what actually maintains this realm where only celebrities can dwell. So, when a desperate actress ends up dead and no one knows who, or why, or HOW, it happened, it was a really fun little mystery for Jake to explore while unraveling how this realm works. Or it could have been. Unfortunately, the focus of the book kind of, well, loses focus part way through.
Unfortunately, that later half of the book really started to feel its length to me. The author has crafted an intriguing afterlife that has a type of magic to it based in spiritualism. The book meanders away from the murder mystery and the gangsters after Jake to focus in on this secondary plot about the beings keeping Valhollywood functional and focusing on an attempt to unlock a path to those beings and their power. The author attempts to link the original mystery to this but, unfortunately, can’t quite do it in a way that I felt was as gripping as the murder mystery. The pacing slowed dramatically, and then the solving of the original crime ended up feeling lack luster. If the entire subplot with Edmund had been cut, nothing would have been lost, in my opinion. For me, if the story had remained more focused on that supernatural mystery aspect and how it ties into the fame that keeps these actors in Valhollywood, I would have rated this higher. But because of my dwindling interest in Edmund and what he was attempting to do—or stop?—and why Jake even mattered to his goals, and just how much that took away from an otherwise thrilling and action packed story, I’m giving this 3 stars. And thanks to the publisher for sending me a review copy.
March 19, 2024
My passion for film noir, classic cinema, Old Hollywood, and the supernatural, alongside a deep interest in Japanese mythology, folklore, and mysticism, should have made me the ideal reader for this book. Regrettably, it didn't fully capture my affection.
While I appreciated many aspects of it, and found joy in researching Hollywood stars I was previously unfamiliar with—like Alla Nazimova and Lilyan Tashman, enjoying the discovery of their contributions and appearances during their prime—these enjoyable detours weren't enough to sustain my engagement with the narrative.
As I progressed, approximately two-thirds into the story, it appeared the author became entangled in the very plot constructs he created, causing the narrative to falter. The excitement and cohesion present in the initial segments gave way to a middle section that felt labored and unclear, culminating in a final third that was particularly challenging to navigate. I found myself pushing through these latter portions, a stark contrast to the initial enjoyment and intrigue spurred by the book's promising setup.
The elements for an outstanding story were certainly there, yet the book, in its current form, didn't quite fulfill its potential. With focused editing and refinement, this work could have been transformed into the captivating read it aspired to be. Unfortunately, as it stands, the book didn't live up to the sum of its intriguing components.
While I appreciated many aspects of it, and found joy in researching Hollywood stars I was previously unfamiliar with—like Alla Nazimova and Lilyan Tashman, enjoying the discovery of their contributions and appearances during their prime—these enjoyable detours weren't enough to sustain my engagement with the narrative.
As I progressed, approximately two-thirds into the story, it appeared the author became entangled in the very plot constructs he created, causing the narrative to falter. The excitement and cohesion present in the initial segments gave way to a middle section that felt labored and unclear, culminating in a final third that was particularly challenging to navigate. I found myself pushing through these latter portions, a stark contrast to the initial enjoyment and intrigue spurred by the book's promising setup.
The elements for an outstanding story were certainly there, yet the book, in its current form, didn't quite fulfill its potential. With focused editing and refinement, this work could have been transformed into the captivating read it aspired to be. Unfortunately, as it stands, the book didn't live up to the sum of its intriguing components.
November 3, 2023
"Valhollywood" is worth the read. As soon as I started reading it, I knew I would give it a 4 or 5 star rating. By the time I finished reading the book, I was completely amazed by the entire storyline and the series of events that transpired throughout it. It is worth a full 5 stars. "Valhollywood" is a mixture of fantasy, supernatural, action, and adventure. What a potent combination!!
Our main character is Jacob Neumann (aka Jake). He is a contemporary actor who dies and awakes in the afterlife. As the story advances, he is tasked with the job of solving a murder. He quickly learns that this supernatural universe is reserved for people who have achieved success and fame during their earthly life. He also discovers that the afterlife is a reproduction of Hollywood's golden era. It is filled with other famous people, primarily from the film industry. The storyline proceeds very quickly, but it is detail oriented, so readers won't feel left behind or become confused as to what is happening. Each chapter cleverly incorporates aspects of supernaturalism, mystery, and action. The story arc is creative enough to keep readers intrigued and immersed into the entire storyline. Jake meets and interacts with various characters along the way. Some of them become allies, and others become enemies. Basil Rathbone, Humphrey Bogart, and John Wayne are just a few of the bigwigs he runs into, in the afterlife. These additional characters bring the perfect amount of action, allurement and suspense that the book needs in order to progress.
The author's fascination with classical Hollywood films is consistently evident throughout the novel. As a fan of classical movies myself, I can definitely attest to the fact that this book is worth the read. If you also have a keen interest in vintage Hollywood films, or you're searching for a distinctive, innovative, and action-packed read, then your search is over. You've found the right book to indulge your literary curiosity. I think this book is better suited for older teenagers and adults, since it contains adult language and situations. Overall, it is a great read!
Our main character is Jacob Neumann (aka Jake). He is a contemporary actor who dies and awakes in the afterlife. As the story advances, he is tasked with the job of solving a murder. He quickly learns that this supernatural universe is reserved for people who have achieved success and fame during their earthly life. He also discovers that the afterlife is a reproduction of Hollywood's golden era. It is filled with other famous people, primarily from the film industry. The storyline proceeds very quickly, but it is detail oriented, so readers won't feel left behind or become confused as to what is happening. Each chapter cleverly incorporates aspects of supernaturalism, mystery, and action. The story arc is creative enough to keep readers intrigued and immersed into the entire storyline. Jake meets and interacts with various characters along the way. Some of them become allies, and others become enemies. Basil Rathbone, Humphrey Bogart, and John Wayne are just a few of the bigwigs he runs into, in the afterlife. These additional characters bring the perfect amount of action, allurement and suspense that the book needs in order to progress.
The author's fascination with classical Hollywood films is consistently evident throughout the novel. As a fan of classical movies myself, I can definitely attest to the fact that this book is worth the read. If you also have a keen interest in vintage Hollywood films, or you're searching for a distinctive, innovative, and action-packed read, then your search is over. You've found the right book to indulge your literary curiosity. I think this book is better suited for older teenagers and adults, since it contains adult language and situations. Overall, it is a great read!
November 9, 2023
"Vаlhollywood" creаtes a spectacular first impression. I rate it a total of 4 stars. It offers a unique and colorful peek into the afterlife of Hollywood's elite. It exаmines the price of fame and what others (ironically, the dead) will do to аcquire and mаintain it. This book focuses on Jake, a recently deceased actor. He finds himself in this Hollywood-styled afterlife, where things are not what they appear to be. He bumps shoulders with the finest stars in the film industry. Some of them are willing to aid him on his quest. But others are as deаdly and deceitful as the devil himself.
In this realm, Jаke plays the role of an amаteur sleuth (and he plays it rather well). He aims to solve the murder of one of the inhabitants of this world. Along the way, Jake аngers some very influential people. Amid the action, drаma, and suspense that unfolds, Jake has his heart set on solving the case. Nothing is going to prevent him from аchieving his goal. Not even death itself. But what lengths will he undergo in order to solve this case and protect his new home? You'll have to get a copy of this book to find out.
This is a fаscinаting novel, with a unique twist on the afterlife. Essentially, it is a supernatural, mystery book that will glue readers to the edge of their seats. The ideology where fаme serves as a currency in this world, creаtes a powerful spin to the storyline. Christopher Appel is victorious in his shrewd аbility to create a captivаting world, brimming with suspense and danger. His dаzzling descriptions and intense character developments mаke this novel a hypnotic read. The book is both fast-paced and action-packed, just the way I prefer it. Through fantasy, this book wittily examines themes like death, life, and fame. I'm not a classical film buff, so some details went over my head. But even so, "Valhollywood" is still аn exceptional reаd.
In this realm, Jаke plays the role of an amаteur sleuth (and he plays it rather well). He aims to solve the murder of one of the inhabitants of this world. Along the way, Jake аngers some very influential people. Amid the action, drаma, and suspense that unfolds, Jake has his heart set on solving the case. Nothing is going to prevent him from аchieving his goal. Not even death itself. But what lengths will he undergo in order to solve this case and protect his new home? You'll have to get a copy of this book to find out.
This is a fаscinаting novel, with a unique twist on the afterlife. Essentially, it is a supernatural, mystery book that will glue readers to the edge of their seats. The ideology where fаme serves as a currency in this world, creаtes a powerful spin to the storyline. Christopher Appel is victorious in his shrewd аbility to create a captivаting world, brimming with suspense and danger. His dаzzling descriptions and intense character developments mаke this novel a hypnotic read. The book is both fast-paced and action-packed, just the way I prefer it. Through fantasy, this book wittily examines themes like death, life, and fame. I'm not a classical film buff, so some details went over my head. But even so, "Valhollywood" is still аn exceptional reаd.
June 12, 2023
talented writer. Overly involved plot line.
OK, I didn’t love this book, but I can definitely see there are a lot of things to appreciate about it, and here’s why…
The plot line is well researched, and I can definitely tell the author is a Neil Gaiman fan. So mad respect for that point. The story is also extremely unique although at times overly complicated and hard to follow.
I appreciate the underlying theme about finding strength and courage in unexpected places. Also the fleeting nature of fame and how it can be both a blessing and a curse.
My favorite character was definitely Ava Gardner, and I loved the descriptions such as the imagery of her taking a long drag and the reference to man having first cultivated tobacco. Stuff like that makes for some talented and heartfelt writing. I also enjoyed the creative touches and the humor.
No, the premise of Jake being thrust into an afterlife world that he had no idea existed and then suddenly having to find a way to rescue it? Cool idea. And it’s a great classic heroes journey story.
The author is also fantastic at ratcheting up the tension in the air between the characters and within the plot line.
So overall, I appreciate this book for what it is, but personally, it didn’t draw me in as much as it could have.
That being said, I definitely believe it is worth the read, although I found myself skimming through many parts.
Solid four stars just for the writing talent.
OK, I didn’t love this book, but I can definitely see there are a lot of things to appreciate about it, and here’s why…
The plot line is well researched, and I can definitely tell the author is a Neil Gaiman fan. So mad respect for that point. The story is also extremely unique although at times overly complicated and hard to follow.
I appreciate the underlying theme about finding strength and courage in unexpected places. Also the fleeting nature of fame and how it can be both a blessing and a curse.
My favorite character was definitely Ava Gardner, and I loved the descriptions such as the imagery of her taking a long drag and the reference to man having first cultivated tobacco. Stuff like that makes for some talented and heartfelt writing. I also enjoyed the creative touches and the humor.
No, the premise of Jake being thrust into an afterlife world that he had no idea existed and then suddenly having to find a way to rescue it? Cool idea. And it’s a great classic heroes journey story.
The author is also fantastic at ratcheting up the tension in the air between the characters and within the plot line.
So overall, I appreciate this book for what it is, but personally, it didn’t draw me in as much as it could have.
That being said, I definitely believe it is worth the read, although I found myself skimming through many parts.
Solid four stars just for the writing talent.
June 21, 2023
Thoroughly enjoyed the book. The novel is set in an afterlife that is governed by fame in part, which creates a series of intriguing consequences. The laws of this universe/afterlife create a reality within the narrative such that the setting becomes almost an additional character. The best parallels I can think of are Sanderson’s Mist Born series or the Lord Darcy Books by Garrett. If you enjoyed either of those series, you are likely to love this book. It does a beautiful job of balancing humor and serious story telling. The story is compelling, and the narrative arc kept drawing me back. I have only a mild interest in/knowledge of Hollywood history and I really enjoyed looking things up on the web as I read the book. It made the story of the afterlife even more “real” when I realized the quality of the research that went into crafting the story and setting. I read the book as part of a vacation trip and when I got home started it again. I am finding new gems on the second pass. I hope this will be the first installment in a new series.
April 18, 2023
For transparency's sake- I am the author's son. I would have rated this book 5 stars even if I were not.
The concept is unique, with each chapter leaving you wanting more. Every action sequence has an interesting and distinctive set piece. The world is fascinating and fleshed out, leaving you wondering what else is going on in this universe.
The story relies heavily on established actors from throughout the golden age of Hollywood. I have limited knowledge on the actual actors these characters are based on, and had never heard of many of the more obscure actors, but the book still works without knowing the actors. The author does a great job telling the reader what information they need to know about each of the characters, without holding your hand.
A mystery involving famous actors, singers, and mobsters, as well as strange cults in a world with magical powers. This story leaves you always wanting more.
The concept is unique, with each chapter leaving you wanting more. Every action sequence has an interesting and distinctive set piece. The world is fascinating and fleshed out, leaving you wondering what else is going on in this universe.
The story relies heavily on established actors from throughout the golden age of Hollywood. I have limited knowledge on the actual actors these characters are based on, and had never heard of many of the more obscure actors, but the book still works without knowing the actors. The author does a great job telling the reader what information they need to know about each of the characters, without holding your hand.
A mystery involving famous actors, singers, and mobsters, as well as strange cults in a world with magical powers. This story leaves you always wanting more.
June 17, 2025
You Can take it with you, but the only thing that really counts is your Reputation.
This was true for many thousands of years until recently, historically speaking. Ask any archeologist.
This is a crazy story. The cast, and I am not apologising for that word, are almost all famous but dead Hollywood movie stars.
If you lived your life as a Hollywood star, what would the perfect afterlife be like?
More of the same.
Except that they don't make any more movies. I think that they would.
The plot, such as it is, is a tale about Theosophy, retold by Lovecraft. Yes, dear fellow readers, a lot of the literature mentioned is actually by Lovecraft.
There are also cars that run away because their feelings get hurt.
The goals of the Main Character are admirable, but seem a little tacked on to make him a nice guy...
This was true for many thousands of years until recently, historically speaking. Ask any archeologist.
This is a crazy story. The cast, and I am not apologising for that word, are almost all famous but dead Hollywood movie stars.
If you lived your life as a Hollywood star, what would the perfect afterlife be like?
More of the same.
Except that they don't make any more movies. I think that they would.
The plot, such as it is, is a tale about Theosophy, retold by Lovecraft. Yes, dear fellow readers, a lot of the literature mentioned is actually by Lovecraft.
There are also cars that run away because their feelings get hurt.
The goals of the Main Character are admirable, but seem a little tacked on to make him a nice guy...
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews