Elmore Leonard Claimed As Inspiration To London Crime Writer, Ben Gaunt

Ben Gaunt, author of South of the River: Running on Empty" claims that Elmore Leonard inspired him to turn from a life of crime to crime writing.

(PRWEB) May 1, 2005 -- Ben Gaunt, author of South of the River: Running on Empty" claims that Elmore Leonard inspired him to turn from a life of crime to crime writing.

'I was a late developer with Elmore Leonard. Came across him in a second-hand bookshop called 'Old and Gold. Somebody had cleared out a set and I chose 'The Hunted ... wish Id bought them all. Would have saved some money there," states Gaunt.

Now I only buy in hardback. And how long did it take me to realise he was the writer of 'Hombre and '3.10 to Yuma. First time Id ever heard of Dade County and it came to exist in my mind in the same geography as 'somewhere south of the Pecos. Should have seen it straightaway."

Its all there in the spare characterisation, the taut dialogue and the honesty of it all. Its how people think and what people say and what people do. Its how it is for me in writing about London crime -- victim people, street culture and a sense of place, and those who are just managing to hold something together. Thats why its 'South of the River where too many of us are 'running on empty.
Published by London Crime Works, South of the River: Running On Empty" is the latest addition to its crime library. This contemporary urban crime thriller is fast-paced and tough, with uncompromising dialogue and dark humour.

For more information please go to: http://www.elmoreleonard.com
Ben Gaunt may be reached through Keith Hunt, Camelot Marketing, email Keith@camelotmarketing.net.

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