East Michigan News

Central Michigan University Professor of English, Darrin Doyle, is set to release his first novella, "Let Gravity Seize the Dead," through Regal House Publishing on July 9. Known for his unpredictable storytelling, Doyle's new work explores themes of trauma and time.

The novella follows a family residing in a cabin in a Michigan forest across two timelines, 1907 and 2007. It delves into the impact of trauma on families and how it intertwines with their history. Doyle describes the book as "a sort of ghost story about a family haunted by past tragedy," highlighting the concept of intergenerational trauma.

Doyle expressed his admiration for the novella form, citing works like Thomas Mann’s "Death in Venice" and Denis Johnson’s "Train Dreams" as inspirations. “I’m thrilled to offer my own work in this form,” he said.

Regal House Publishing, based in Raleigh, North Carolina, was awarded the 2021 Independent Publisher of the Year Award from Forward Reviews. Doyle commented on being published by them: “Each year they put out a wide variety of compelling contemporary fiction. It’s very cool to be a part of it.”

The book is available for pre-order on Amazon and through Regal House Publishing. A local launch event will take place at Sleepy Dog Bookstore this summer, with an additional event planned on campus in the fall.