Russell Brooks’s boldest and spiciest thriller, Jam Run, made him a finalist for the prestigious award
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Montreal, February 14, 2024 — Celebrated Montreal suspense thriller author Russell Brooks has emerged as one of the five finalists for the prestigious Author of the Year award at the upcoming Gala Dynastie, as announced by the Gala on Friday, February 9. Brooks, recognized for his compelling work in the suspense genre, has been nominated for his latest novel, Jam Run.
Set against the vibrant backdrop of Jamaica, Jam Run explores the gripping narrative inspired by the tragic murder of Dwayne Jones, a gay teenager who faced a brutal end after attending a “straight” party outside Montego Bay dressed as a woman.
“I’m elated. I’ve never had any of my books recognized by a prestigious group. It’s the first time I wrote a story that reflects my Caribbean roots,” said Brooks.
The novel marks a significant departure for Brooks, weaving a tale that dives into Caribbean culture and addresses poignant social issues. “This is what motivated me to write this book because, in my opinion, stories like this need to be told,” added Brooks, emphasizing the importance of shedding light on such critical matters.
“Since the story is set in Montego Bay and its neighbouring parishes, making it as authentically Jamaican as possible was important.”
Returning to the literary scene with a strong sequel, Jam Run brings back Eddie Barrow, a Montreal author and amateur sleuth, along with his outspoken best friend, Corey Stephenson. The storyline unfolds as they become entangled in a dangerous pursuit to uncover a killer, inadvertently stumbling upon a larger criminal conspiracy that places them in the crosshairs of ruthless assassins.
Brooks went the extra mile to ensure authenticity in Jam Run by visiting Montego Bay, collaborating with local experts and immersing himself in the Jamaican environment. His dedication to accuracy saw him personally exploring the locations in and outside Montego Bay where the story unfolds. “Since the story is set in Montego Bay and its neighbouring parishes, making it as authentically Jamaican as possible was important,” Brooks explained. “I wanted to tell the story from Eddie Barrow’s point of view.”
The novel has received acclaim from notable figures such as Mutsumi Takahashi of CTV News Montreal and Richard Burnett of Fugues Magazine. Takahashi lauded the book, stating, “The best of crime thrillers offer us page-turning entertainment but with an important message thrown in for good measure. From [Russell Brooks], we get just that.”
Burnett praised Jam Run as “A gripping crime thriller about the ever-present menace and violence the LGBTQ community faces daily.”
The Gala Dynastie invites the public to participate by voting for the Candidate of the Year. You can vote for Russell Brooks at: vote.galadynastie.com
About Gala Dynastie
The Gala Dynastie, now in its eighth edition, celebrates the outstanding achievements of personalities from Quebec’s black communities in media, arts, and culture. The Gala Dynastie, presented in two parts – Media Evening and Culture Evening, honours the richness and diversity of black talents that transcend borders, emphasizing their vital contribution to the cultural, artistic, and media industries.
About Russell Brooks
Russell Brooks, a Canadian author of Barbadian descent, has previously authored notable thrillers such as “Pandora’s Succession,” “Unsavory Delicacies,” “Chill Run,” and “The Demeter Code.” A former sprinter, Brooks represented Canada in various international competitions and holds a degree in Biology with a minor in psychology from Indiana University.
For more information on Jam Run and Russell Brooks, visit RussellParkway.com.
Contact:
Russell Brooks
Email: russell@russellparkway.com.
Review copies of Jam Run are available on request.
