After the success of his documentary “Gas Hole,” Turlock resident, author, film producer and director Scott D. Roberts is gearing up to release his debut novel “Vengeance is Now.”
Critics have called the erotic mystery thriller a “page-turner” full of plot twists.
“The novel is about a disgraced former homicide detective who is framed for a heinous crime, and how he has to turn the tables around from being the hunted to the hunter,” said Roberts. “He is seeking redemption and trying to clear his name. He’s a very flawed character, which I think are the most interesting.”
With the New York Times bestseller “50 Shades of Grey” becoming such an immense success, interest in erotica has grown recently. Due to the success of “Shades” and other big sellers, authors like Roberts have taken on the “erotic-thriller” genre as it becomes more acceptable and credible to write erotic fiction.
“First, erotica has broadened and is no longer a well-defined genre,” said Roberts. “… My book 'Vengeance is Now' is primarily a thriller and mystery about a serial killer where the protagonist Tate Holloway happens to be a private investigator and a male prostitute. With the economy being what it has been, it’s not unusual for people to ‘moonlight’; but in this case, the second ‘job’ involves sex and adds the erotic elements to the book.”
Though many male erotic writers often disguise their genders under female pseudonyms, Roberts chose not to. He felt that with the rise in interest and mainstream acceptance of erotica as an accepted literary genre, there was no need to hide behind a woman’s name or even hide at all.
“With the worldwide success of novels like 'Shades,' resistance by the reviewer community is crumbling,” said Roberts. “I am trying to build a career as a serious artist and adding the erotic element means a greater chance for market success. I don’t see anything wrong with it. Most people have sex and enjoy reading about it. I think a legitimate story with erotic elements offers the perfect mix to satisfy readers who like their fiction to be sexy, too.”
Roberts will hold a book release party on April 25 at the Grizzly Rock Café in Turlock. Roberts is expecting nearly 200 friends, family, fans and supporters to celebrate the release of his new novel.
Roberts’ previous work includes the award-winning documentary “Gas Hole,” which was narrated by actor Peter Gallagher. The documentary is now available in 17 countries and in six different languages. Roberts has also previously worked in television and film, working with some of the biggest studios in Hollywood including MGM, Warner Studios, Columbia, Paramount and many more.
After the book release party held in Turlock, Roberts will embark on a month-long nationwide book tour to Tampa, Atlanta, New Orleans, Philadelphia, New York, Miami, Portland and Denver.
“While on the road, I’ll start working on the second book to this series,” said Roberts. “There will be a few books featuring the same character, Private Investigator Tate Holloway, so it will eventually be a full series.”
Having grown up in Turlock, Roberts graduated from Turlock High School in 1989. Although he spends a lot of time working in Los Angeles, Roberts spends most of his time in Turlock as his two children attend both Pitman High School and Turlock Jr. High School.
“It’s always fun to see people you know in the place where you grew up,” said Roberts. “Everyone around me has been so supportive, and I’m just thankful for everybody who has supported me throughout this venture. I’m really excited about it.”
“Vengeance is Now” is currently available for purchase through the 3L Publishing website at www.3lpublishing.com. The book will be released nationally on May 1 and can be purchased through Amazon and select bookstores throughout the country. An e-book version will also be available for purchase following the national release date.
The Turlock book release party will be held from 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. April 25 at the Grizzly Rock Café, located at 4905 Golden State Boulevard. The event will include complimentary hors d'oeuvres and a full bar.
To learn more about the novel and Scott D. Roberts, visit www.VengeanceIsNow.com.
