Pianist in a Bordello

by Mike C. Erickson

Pianist in a Bordello

What would happen if a politician decided to tell the truth—the whole truth?
Richard Youngblood, aspiring Congressman, is about to find out. He’s running on a platform of honesty and transparency—and against the advice of his friends and advisers he’s decided to start with himself. His autobiography will lay his entire life bare before voters just days before the election.
And what a life he’s had. Born in a commune and named Richard Milhous Nixon Youngblood as an angry shot at his absent father, Richard grows up in the spotlight, the son of an enigmatic fugitive and the grandson of a Republican senator. He’s kidnapped and rescued, kicked out of college for a prank involving turkeys, arrested in Hawaii while trying to deliver secrets to the CIA…Dick Nixon Youngblood’s ready to tell all.
He’ll even tell his readers about the Amandas—three women who share a name but not much else, and who each have helped shape and define the man he’s become.
Are voters really ready for the whole truth?
Are you?
Pianist in a Bordello is a hilarious political romp through the last four decades of American history, from a narrator who is full of surprises.

Genres: Humor, Fiction, Politics, Satire, Adult Fiction, Novels, Contemporary

284 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 30, 2014

About the author

About the Author

Mike C. Erickson’s birth and early education took place in the idyllic college town of Logan, Utah, but because of a twist of fate he graduated from high school in Honolulu. He left Hawaii brimming with aloha and enrolled at Utah State, where he was awarded two degrees and self-proclaimed minor intellectual status, which was of dubious value when the US Army invited him to vacation in South-East Asia. Ten days after leaving Vietnam, he began decades of dispensing pearls of wisdom as a high school teacher and, on occasion, as a community college history instructor in suburban Sacramento. Mike and his wife Trudy, have two grown sons and a grandson who was born just after this novel was published. When not in Hawaii or some other exotic
locale, they live in Gold River, California. This is his first novel.

Recent awards and recognitions: BRAG Medallion honoree, very positive review from Red City Reviews, and one of the best in general fiction according to the Northern California Publishers and Authors

Reviews

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fun, smart romp of a fictional autobiography.

Dickie Milhaus Nixon Youngblood has a Republican Senator for a grandfather. He has a legendary hippie rebel for a father, who pops in and out of his life almost mystically. He's a scholar, a veteran, a former high school teacher, and now a Democratic Congressional candidate. He has colorful friends in his life, a string of Amandas, and a conservative nemesis. If all this political nuttiness sounds like your cup of tea, give it a shot. It's a good deal on Kindle, $2.99 as of this writing.

[Bandit · Rating 4 out of 5]

Surprisingly cute (much like the title) debut novel about life and politics. Sort of like a portrait of a politician as a young man, the readers get to follow the life of adventures of the improbably named Richard Milhous Nixon Youngblood through his charmed life from childhood to early 40s, the age he decides to become a congressman. Very entertaining cast of characters from lovely and deadly Amandas to mysterious (nearly magical) absentee father and yogi mother, the protagonist was certainly destined for some sort of greatness, if only to justify all these incredible circumstances and occurrences. The book also works as a satire and depending on your political inclinations you'll either love or hate it, though either way you have to admire the unflinching honesty as a quality that ought to be integral in the grand scheme of the game. Erickson's writing is very competent, occasionally humorous, strong pacing, none of the amateurish stumbles that sometimes denote first time authors. Very enjoyable quick read. Recommended, at least for liberal leaning minds.

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

“At a Presbyterian church, which I attended with my grandmother, the minister said faith got you a first-class airfare to eternal life. Being age twelve, I already knew I was immortal.”

I received a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.

Humorous, entertaining, intelligent. I really enjoyed this little political satire.

Following the story of Richard Milhous Nixon Youngblood, Pianist in a Bordello takes you on a journey from the less-than-conventional youth of Dick Youngblood all the way through to his campaign for Congressman in California.

I was immediately blown away by the cleverness of Mr. Erickson. The first several chapters had me grinning and giggling quite a bit. As the story moved on, things took on a more serious tone, but underlying it all was a wit and intelligence that I found most impressive.

Impeccable writing, clever dialogue, and an amusing take on a weighty subject. I never knew I liked political satire before reading this book, but it has convinced me of two things. One, I do indeed enjoy political satire, and two, I enjoy the writing of Mr. Erickson.

Recommended for all who enjoy intelligent, humorous writing; coming-of-age stories; politics; witty repartee; and truth.

[Julie Baswell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Richard Milhous Nixon Youngblood was named after the infamous former President of the United States. He sometimes even used the trademark two hand peace sign. Dickie’s father was always on the run from “the G-man”, but continuously came through at various times when Dickie needed him. When Dickie decides to run for state senator, he wants to show his total honesty to the public by releasing his autobiography that spells out everything he has done, good and bad, legal and illegal. But will it get him elected, or have the opposite effect? There’s only one way to find out.

The hilarity in this book is endless. Dickie’s entire life seems to be a comedy of errors. I loved getting to know these characters and how they filtered through his life. From the seemingly magical appearances of Tri-Y to the stalking Amanda, I laughed the entire way through the book. I would love to read a sequel to this.

[Bryan Barton · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Pianist in a Bordello" is like Forrest Gump.
If Forrest Gump was:
Smarter.
Consumed with politics.
Surrounded by extremists.
Written by someone obsessed with Richard Nixon.

I had a blast reading this fun romp about a young man and his adventures through a political lens. It is an easy read, full of wacky characters and hijinks. After I got into it, I could not put it down.

Whether you are Conservative, Liberal or none of the above you will enjoy "Pianist in a Bordello"!

[Nadeen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pianist in a Bordello is fiction in the form of a fake memoir by our hero, Dickie Milhaus Nixon Youngblood. You can tell it is fiction since it features an honest politician who decides that the truth is the best way to present his case before the world. Yes I used the word honest and politician in the same sentence but keep in mind it is fiction. He is a left wing Democrat from a family that features a right wing Republican senator as his grandfather and a 70s radical hippie as a father, who can be counted on to pop up in the most unlikely places with impeccable timing. Dickie, or Richard as he prefers, has a somewhat checkered past and in choosing to describe his life in detail he doesn't leave out some pretty sketchy activities and some interesting motivations. He is supported by colorful friends who have strong morals about everything except the law, a string of girl friends who are either named Amanda or name themselves Amanda, and his own private stalker. I will let you guess out what her name is. I want to vote for him but short of that I would definitely read something by Mike Erickson again. If you are looking for a serious discussion on politics, keep going but if you are looking for a tongue in cheek romp with serious themes look no further. It was a fun read and would have been even more fun if some of the topics hadn't rung quite so true.

[E.M. Kaplan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holy cow. Great book.

I don't ever bandy around the words "tour de force," but Pianist in a Bordello knocked my socks off. Yes, I too, was reminded of Catch-22 by its glib tone and pacing. I also felt a little Hunter S. Thompson. Maybe some John Kennedy Toole. I read a lot of independent and little-known authors. Every once in a while, I come across someone who is simply outstanding. Bravo, Mr. Erickson.

[Trevor · Rating 4 out of 5]

A really enjoyable read, and one which most probably has a lot of truth in it.

The story of Richard Youngblood, and his attempt to be an honest politician, in the American political system. This is both a realistic and humorous telling of his tale to be elected, and the consequences of what being too honest can bring. Take it all as mostly tongue in cheek, but think back on it and you will see me truth than fiction.

[Sally Cohen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great novel

I could not put it down. So witty and gave me an incite into politics. Recommend to all for its humor depth and ease of readability

[D. Thrush · Rating 4 out of 5]

No, this novel isn’t about a pianist or a bordello. The title comes from a quote by President Truman comparing it to politics. In fact, each chapter begins with a quote. This story is about Dick who has had an unusual life and wants to run for Congress. He decides to publish an honest autobiography so there will be no dirt for his opponent to dig up. His parents were hippies and his grandfather is a Republican Senator. His story begins with his birth in a teepee and the disappearance of his radical revolutionary father who briefly reappears at opportune times in his life. Many crazy adventures ensue as we follow him through childhood, college, relationships, and his job teaching history. His politics are liberal and pragmatic and he sincerely wants to effect change. I found the book entertaining, smart, and funny.

[Debra · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a great way for me to start off the year. I can’t remember who directed me to Pianist in a Bordello or how I found it, but I appreciate the serendipity.

No spoilers — just enjoy the wonderful romp!

[Thomas Simpson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Spoiler: File this one under "fairy tales," as the politician with the rational, humane positions wins in the end.

I had been looking forward to this book after hearing tantalizing clues about it some years ago and with the exception that Richard Youngblood did not turn out to be a vampire (another spoiler, sorry) it lived up (or exceeded) my expectations! Very few books are truly page-turners (or button-pushers since I read the kindle version) and I devoured this book entirely in two sittings, excited to see the past 40 years of american history seen through the eyes of the protagonist (or the author). The book had some nice humor and fantastical twists (without vampirism), although I think it was at it's strongest in its defense of it's clear liberal bias :D This book was a nice little reminder of the importance of some of those good liberal values, not least of which is valuing educators (especially HISTORY TEACHERS).

Way to go, Mr. E

[Drtaxsacto · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an inventive story about a guy who grows up with a mysterious hippie dad, a Marin County mom and a Grandfather who is a US Senator. It is political but not limited to politics. The main character, Richard Milhous Nixon Youngblood, travels through the sixties to the present time and lives life to the fullest - the book begins and ends with him running a campaign for Congress and deciding to tell the truth. In the intervening pages he goes through a series of adventures with a crazed female who loves him and then wants to kill him, a techie who has the sense of Dick Tuck but with technology at his side, and a series of women named Amanda.

This is a light enjoyable read. Good for the summer list, but why wait?

[Tulay · Rating 4 out of 5]

Entertaining,

I would love to have a teacher like Mr Youngblood, he made his students think. His father wasn't around when he was growing up, but he was there when he needed him. Dick's life experiences made him into great person. Witty, engaging and perfect book for this 2016 election year.

[J.L. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although the edition I read could have used a good proofread, I enjoyed the humor and political commentary in this book. Tri-Y is the best absentee father ever, and a character you will never forget. Must read.

[Christina]

Loved reading this book by one of my favorite teachers. I could see his face and hear his laugh as I read certain parts. Glad he got to do this! Maybe a sequel? :)

[Tracy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent!

[Charles Ray · Rating 5 out of 5]

Are American voters ready for completely honesty from politicians? The outcome of the 2016 presidential election would indicate that the answer is, NO!
In Pianist in a Bordello, author Mike C. Erickson explores this premise in a rollicking adventure featuring Richard Milhous Nixon Youngblood, a man who was born in a commune to a hippie mother and an absentee father who was also an enigmatic revolutionary. After his tumultuous childhood, including being kicked out of college for a political prank, Youngblood decides to enter politics. Unlike his fellow politicians, though, he decides to publish a ‘tell-all’ autobiography prior to the election. His campaign advisors are against it, and his mission is complicated by all the Amandas in his life, including a peripatetic journalist who gets herself kidnapped by terrorists, and a determined stalker who considers herself and Youngblood to be reincarnations of the real Pat and Tricky Dick Nixon, who are destined to be linked together in death.
Fictional, it offers a unique take on real-life historical and political events of our time that will make a reader pause and reflect. Sometimes, fiction is closer to the truth than most of us are comfortable admitting. After reading this book, some of the more bizarre events of current-day politics will actually make more sense.
I received a free copy of this book.

[Lois · Rating 3 out of 5]

Different. That's how I describe it. I can't put it in a certain genre. It is sort of like political satire, but it's not Animal Farm. It is humorous, and pokes fun (sort of) at politicians. Except Republicans were portrayed in an idiotic light and democrats were perfect and are the only ones who care about people. Now, I could accept the stereotypical portrayal of one party if the other had also been portrayed in the same manner. According to the description, this book was supposed to be "what if" a politician would be completely transparent? Well, I'm still waiting. Richard "Dick" Nixon Youngblood was still phony. His friends were phony. They played dirty tricks behind the scenes. That is no different than any Joe Regular political candidate. I didn't understand his father, who mysteriously pops in and out of his life like a ghost. And the author's obsession with Amandas I also didn't understand. The character calls his mother by her first name. So, those are the weird things. But, the author is funny and light-hearted, so maybe I shouldn't take things so seriously. This came as a "Bargain Booskie" for Kindle, so I didn't pay much for it. It was not a complete waste of time because of the rampant humor that runs through. But, a year from now I won't remember anything about it.

[Lawrence · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was thoroughly entertained by this satire. It presents a situation which seems to be increasingly unlikely, a politician who chooses to be completely honest about his life, publishing an autobiography shortly before an election.
Dick Youngblood is aware he has led a life of privilege, and it has offered certain advantages that he made full use of. He also chose to decline those advantages and make his own way in other circumstances.
The story of his life was entertaining. His decision to become a candidate for public office and be completely candid about himself led to some rather interesting interactions with the public and the media.

[Bruce Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't normally write a review. Just leave stars. I must for this book.
Excellent! Written with humor and a considerable amount of love, this book brought me back to college in the 60's and 70's. It was a time when we were dedicated and idealistic. It was a time we knew we could change the world.
The writing style is similar to "Teaching Frankenstein". It has just enough of a passion for the subject to tell a very effective story.
Not to be missed.

[Robin H-R Holmes Richardson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a real treat. I totally enjoyed the exploits of Richard Milhous Nixon Youngblood. The characters were great fun, especially Tri-Y. I enjoyed the subtle humor. I'm an Independent leaning Republican, but I'd vote for "Dickie" in a heartbeat. An "honest" candidate, unheard of in 2023. I'd love to see a sequel following Dickie through Congress. Bravo, Mr. Erickson. Congrats on your first novel.

[Kay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Refreshing political read?!

This was a surprisingly refreshing read after living through the horror of our recent political atmosphere in the U.S. Fantasy (honesty in a campaign?!), but such entertaining characters and unpredictable outcomes. Will definitely be recommending to discouraged friends for a pleasant escape from reality!

[Pandora Patterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Satire, humor and history

I loved the feel of the American culture that was portrayed from the 60's to present day with a political spin using satire, humor and history. The story was laugh out loud fun. Anyone who has lived through these times will enjoy The Pianist in a Bordello.

[Mary Strobbe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Political junkies take notice

Laced with humor, sarcasm, irony, and political history this is a great read for those who enjoy such antics.
The quotes preceding each chapter are relevant to the chapter and stand alone as words to contemplate.

[Mercedes Prieto · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very entertaining

I found the title intriguing and was not sure what to expect from this book. But the more I read the more I enjoyed the humor, the flow of the story and mostly the interwoven characters. Good job done for a first time novel....

[Carol Carmichael · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thoroughly enjoyable tale about a Congressional candidate in California. Beginning with his birth, nothing in life was normal for Richard Milhous Nixon Youngblood. This is a very timely story about the political climate today told in a very entering fashion. I loved it.

[JoAnn Baasch · Rating 5 out of 5]

Satire at its funniest

Tired of taking American politics seriously? Read this novel. Irreverent, boisterous, and at times completely absurd. Also a great condemnation of everything wrong with the system.

[gloria segal · Rating 2 out of 5]

Democrat in a bordello

Writing an autobiography before running for Congressman may have been the way to go if it wasn't so absurd. Found it hard to stay with the story and who is who.

[Anurag Sharma · Rating 4 out of 5]

Yeah, ok, I liked this book

Too much of a “super hero” book for me, had multiple shades of Tom Clancy, but I liked this book. There is no way this person exists in real life but , still, I liked the book.