Rating: 3 stars

Gene Hoffman, a low-budget film producer finally has the opportunity to pull himself out of the celluloid gutter after meeting an amateur screenwriter who just might have the next big hit on his hands. Playing roulette in an effort to raise the option money and close their cocktail napkin deal, Hoffman’s dreams die when he pins them on black, but gets red instead.

Floyd Manning, a self-proclaimed purveyor of rare movie memorabilia, is being held over the railing of a fourth floor balcony by three angry Texans who have uncovered Manning for the low-life con man that he is. Though his four-story plummet resulted in a fairly cushy landing in a garbage filled dumpster, Manning isn't home free yet.

Gene Hoffman exits the casino and enters a whole new world of problems when he saves Floyd Manning from being stomped to death by three pair of Texan boots.

After awkward introductions, Floyd, in an effort to show his gratitude, offers to cut Gene in on the potentially-lucrative sale of a long lost sex film of Marilyn Monroe. The proposition would net Gene the money he needs, while providing Floyd with the protection he desires. However, a few conveniently omitted, and potentially-deadly details, will confirm that this is one offer that should have been refused.

From page one, The Platinum Loop takes you on a fast-moving thrill ride from the bright lights of Vegas to the Hollywood hills, with a short stop south of the border, and back again. A bit of dark humor dots the pages, acting as a buffer between large helpings of violence and mayhem.

Austin Williams (Crimson Orgy) brings back a bygone era with his contemporary nod to all that is pulp and noir.
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Paperback: 322 pages
Publisher: Upaya House (November 15, 2011)
ISBN-13: 978-1936965007