Hang Fire

Hang Fire: Inspired by a True Hollywood Story by Anthony Mora delivers a complex narrative that explores the intertwining lives of a struggling writer and a therapist against the backdrop of the cutthroat world of Hollywood. The novel opens with intriguing psychotherapeutic dialogue that sets the stage for exploring manipulation, ambition, and the blurred lines between reality and fiction. Struggling novelist James Lansing falls into the seductive chaos of Hollywood through endless dinners and power lunches. His ambitious friend Jerry drives him deeper into the fray as unexpected alliances form and tensions rise—unaware that a pandemic looms ahead. The dynamic between these characters captures the nature of jealousy and camaraderie often found in creative partnerships.  

The setting in Hollywood is brilliantly executed. It is a world where unsavory alliances are formed, trust is tested, and nothing is always what it seems. The opulence of locations such as the Beverly Wilshire Lounge juxtaposes the internal struggle Jerry and James endure as they navigate their ambitions and desires. The author’s gift for characterization shines through this narrative, laden with historical hints. Jerry's character is vividly depicted through his interactions with Dr. Kimberley Goodman, his therapist, who is also an ex-model, thus presenting layers of personal conflict as he balances genuine therapeutic needs and ulterior motives. His obsession with her, compounded by the potential for a career-launching opportunity, reveals his flaws and desperation. On the other hand, Kimberley is impressed by her physical allure while wrestling with professional ethics and longing for relevance in an industry that favors youth and beauty.  

Anthony Mora’s plotting is stellar, and the author succeeds in building emotional tension throughout the narrative, with tension mounting as the story progresses. The central conflict revolves around Jerry manipulating relationships—leveraging his friendship with James and his sessions with Kimberley to engineer an artificial narrative that feeds his ambition. This conflict is heightened by Hollywood's external pressures and superficiality, where success is fleeting and often built on a façade. As the story progresses, themes of betrayal, ambition, and the moral ambiguities of the entertainment industry are brought to light. The tension escalates as Jerry's schemes become increasingly intricate, culminating in the potential for a collaboration that could redefine all their careers. Mora skillfully captures the ambivalence of Hollywood success, leaving readers questioning the authenticity of aspirations and relationships in such a treacherous environment. Hang Fire is a deftly crafted, balanced, and entertaining literary creation.