Only Milo by Barry Smith

Only Milo
by Barry Smith

Published: 2009
Genre: Mystery
Paperback: 272 pages
Rating: 4

Inspiration: aspect of writers and publishers

Description from the amazon:
Meet Milo, a closet writer who emerges from his dull, SPAM-flavored retirement to become an unseen force in the literary world. But when Milo's illicit ghostwriting is nearly exposed on national television, his options are limited. In a world of egotistical, no-talent authors and duplicitous, back-stabbing publishers, how can Milo achieve the recognition he deserves?

My thoughts:
In-a-word(s): it takes two, baby

No flowery or long descriptive paragraphs here. The text is short and (not) sweet. Yes, I'm talking the writing style. It is quite different than the norm. Hey, similar to how I write. ;-D

If you are a Dexter fan or familiar with the premise, then you'll appreciate this story even more.

Like in the Dexter tv series, you get pulled into a relationship with a killer and begin to sympathize with him and his situation. Ugh, you don't wanna but you do.

Although there's murder involved, the mystery lies elsewhere. The murders become secondary in importance as you try to puzzle out Milo's mystery.

Check out the Lit & Life interview with Barry.
Excerpt:
L&L: "Only Milo" is really a commentary on the literary industry. Did you write from personal experience, research or is it strictly your own opinions?

Barry: Mainly my own opinions. In the academic world, I did have research data “stolen” by two of my Ph.D. program professors and received no credit when it was published. But most of Milo’s views were created during the writing process.

It should be obvious that the best writing is not often what gets published or read. Fame, wealth, celebrity and scandal are far more important factors and I think that is a commentary on society as much as it is on the literary industry.

*part of Only Milo Blog Tour

*part my R.I.P. iv challenge

*enter my Only Milo giveaway if you haven't already
-offer ends October 31, 2009