WELCOME TO

THE BOLONEY TRAIL

Based on True Events

SHELAH A JOHNSON

Author

J R SANTANA

Screenwriter

SERIES

If you like flawed women and men a little sloppy,
you’ll love this saga’s cinematic details and unapologetic characters.

PERPETUAL GLOOM

A TWO RUT ROAD

In the grip of the Great Depression, the Hornbeck family faces ruin. JC, a fervent religious zealot, resorts to bank robbery in Missouri’s bootheel. Subsequently, in the Southern courts of Alabama, he’s accused of communist ties. Seeking liberation from his father’s religious hypocrisy, JC’s son Monroe swipes the family horse, embarking on a journey to California. Along this odyssey, Monroe confronts transformative experiences that mold him into the man he’s destined to become. In a tale woven through dust and dreams, the Hornbecks grapple with a turbulent era, and Monroe’s quest for self-discovery becomes a cinematic journey of resilience and redemption.

Imaginary Gravity

LIVIN' LIKE A HURRICANE

Monroe hopes his wife, Dora, will help him gain respect. She has God wrapped around her wrists and is determined to move up the social ladder, but Monroe, hailing from Oklahoma, faces unfavorable odds in securing a high-paying job in California due to existing prejudice against Southerners. Opting for a business offer, he moves his family to Mexico, unknowingly plunging them into a dangerous world of drugs, guns, and government intrigue. The strain on their relationship prompts Dora to illegally cross the border, leaving their children on the streets of Mexico, while Monroe becomes enmeshed in the budding Sinaloa Cartel.

SHATTERING Light

PICKING OUT SHARDS

Coming FALL - 2024

Monroe delves into the Vazquez family’s expanding business, but he quickly realizes he’s in over his head when the younger members steer the enterprise on dangerous and lethal paths. Meanwhile, Dora tends to her wounds and socializes in Lake Tahoe’s casinos, frequented by both the Rat Pack and notorious mobsters. In this chaotic situation, Shelda steps up, ingeniously finding ways to find food for herself and her siblings. However, she swiftly comes to realise that their struggle to survive won’t be the greatest challenge they’ll face.

EDITORIAL REVIEWS

Congratulations on The Boloney Trail, a story filled with memorable characters, indelible scenes, authentic dialogue, and unforgettable details that pulls readers into the scenes and helps them empathize with the human condition in a manner reminiscent of Steinbeck.

William Mike Kielkopf Author, Journalist, and Language Educator

Weighty, insightful, and a literal encounter in authenticity, “Perpetual Gloom” is aptly titled, not only for the darkness the time period encapsulates, but the consistent undertones of despair and hopelessness shrouding the Hornbeck’s and others like them. The parallels between the treatment of oppressed, marginalized, and stigmatized groups in “Perpetual Gloom” and those in today’s society do not go unnoticed.

Reader Views

A vivid portrait of Depression-era history. Johnson excels at weaving together rich historical detail, along with immersive colloquial dialogue that never seems to slip, even as it shifts between different regions of America. The familial relationships feel vibrant and authentic, while the undertone of philosophical questions about the Great Depression drives the plot and characters forward. The visceral story and three-dimensional characters make this novel a thoroughly compelling and thought-provoking portrait of the past.

Self-Publishing Review

Johnson’s writing is unflinching, painting vivid images and conversations so real, I could almost hear them. Each character, each scene, brought to life with clarity and depth. The way she captured the dialects, all the little details, undercurrents and emotions of the Hornbeck family made me feel like I was right there with them. It’s rare to find a story that wraps around you so completely.

Sheri Hoyte Managing Editor, Readers View

RWith its evocative prose and well-drawn characters, "Imaginary Gravity" stands out as a captivating story that lingers in the hearts of readers. Johnson's ability to blend historical elements with personal narratives makes this book a must-read, leaving an indelible mark on the literary landscape.

Demetria C Head Inside View

Sheri Hoyte Managing Editor, Readers View

READER REVIEWS

I usually read nonfiction. I prefer my entertainment to remain grounded in reality. The fact that this fiction is inspired by true events, gives the book that additional bedrock of authenticity. One of the most engaging works I've read in a while.

Chauncey More Readers

Compelling and True to Life! The story brings out the character of the times and locations and weaves an engaging story that draws you in to find out what happens next. The language and phrases used in the book bring to life the colorfulness of the period.

Sandy Johnston United States

“Super Fantastic! Their story really grabs your attention right from the start. The accounts are vividly described transporting you from your world into theirs. I especially appreciated the historical notes and the attention to detail. The trials and tribulations of uprooting oneself from one area of the country to another and only being able to carry the necessities is something that I can relate to. This book transcends anything that I have recently read and did not want it to end. I eagerly await the next one. Make haste."

madvaq United States

A wonderfully engaging, well written saga that will sweep you along into a world worthy of comparison to Steinbeck. I can't praise this writer enough for bringing such a great work to the public! I can't wait to see where this saga will lead next. I highly recommend it as more than just a good read!!

Alex S. United States

The author’s meticulous research and attention to detail breathe life into this historical period, making it feel vivid and authentic. As readers, we witness Monroe's transformation as he navigates a world filled with uncertainty and moral dilemmas. Perpetual Gloom is a captivating and thought-provoking tale that explores themes of courage, faith, and the enduring human spirit.

Abigail L Goodreads

What I loved most about this book is how it pulls you into the gritty reality of the era. You'll feel every hardship, every uncertain moment, and every ounce of determination that Monroe and his fellow travelers possess. Perpetual Gloom is more than just a historical novel; it's a gripping saga that explores the depth of human character and honor. If you want to embark on a dramatic journey filled with flawed yet fascinating characters and cinematic details, this book is a must-read. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure that will keep you turning the pages long into the night.

Sue Goodreads

What a fun read! The stories roll along nicely and super vivid. Who woulda thunk that the 30s were so real. I really felt like a time traveler for the duration.

Dr German Gonzales Amazon

I just completed probably the hardest book I've ever read in my life...It traces a part of American history that most of the people I know in my life came from. These are the stories that my family and the families I know whisper about in the dark, but they never say anything about in the shinning light of day. This is a modern-day Steinbeck who touches a feeling and emotion of Americana that really should be examined, given the kind of future that we seem to be moving in today.

Danial Florea Artist, Philosopher, Educator

A gem of a book that has all the hallmarks of a bestseller. John Steinbeck meets Raymond Carver!

Raf Author, Director, Producer

The time period is wonderfully recreated and vividly described. The family and their antics are heartfelt and entertaining. Makes one consider what one's long ago ancestors were up to.

Christopher Stevens Filmmaker