Jay steps off a bus and into 1980s Hollywood. Based on a true story, a homeless young man with only a few dollars in his pocket becomes attached to the first people to provide him with the basics that he needs; a roof over his head, some food, and a stiff drink. Discovering just how wild and unkind the city can be, the friends quickly turn to a life of crime in order to fund their basic desires. Hollywood’s large parties, celebrities, and excitement were not enough to disguise the dark and disturbing occurrences of everyday life in Tinseltown.

Underground in Tinseltown, by John F. Wilkie, features a fascinating cast of characters that quickly make the reader feel as if they are part of the group. The author follows a young homeless man, Jay, as he desperately tries to become the next great name in Hollywood. The scene is set perfectly, painting a crystal clear image of what the city was like in the 1980s, transporting the reader to a new and intriguing world while spilling the darkest secrets that happen behind the scenes, in the shadow of the glitz and glamor that we know as Hollywood, Los Angeles.

The author has brilliant character and scene descriptions and the book naturally flows. The story progresses quickly, which I enjoyed because there is no unnecessary fluff. It is an intense story that could have easily been told across multiple books, allowing the reader to feel fully invested in the events of Jay’s life. Once I got to the end I found myself wanting more of Jay’s life and backstory and was left unfulfilled.

Underground in Tinseltown is a thrilling action-filled novel with crime and suspense. The author immerses readers into the glamorous world of Hollywood filled with fascinating characters, and the reality of what 1980’s Hollywood really is like.

Pages: 455 | ASIN : B09ZQD3HGG