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Get ready to jump on a literary rollercoaster that transcends the ordinary, as Alfredo Botello unleashes “180 Days,” a cinematic novel that combines the electrifying energy of punk rock, the architectural elegance of the Bay Area, and the raw, unfiltered emotions of love and redemption.
180 Days is not your typical love story—it’s a symphony of chaos and passion, a narrative that kicks off with infidelity but evolves into a riveting exploration of human desires, aspirations, and the tumultuous path to self-discovery.
Meet Tomas Araeta, a dream-chasing architect on the verge of losing everything after a moment of indiscretion. The novel kicks off with Tomas and his wife, Naomi Curran, navigating the complex aftermath of his one-afternoon stand. But this isn’t just a tale of betrayal and heartbreak; it’s a high-octane race against time as “the cooling off period” – California’s mandated 180-day waiting period before the divorce is finalized – looms large, and Tomas endeavors to salvage his marriage.
What makes 180 Days an irresistible read is its multi-dimensional approach and innovative timeline. Imagine punk rock seamlessly intertwined with the world of architecture—a narrative concoction that defies conventions and propels the reader into uncharted literary territory. The ticking clock of 180 days adds an extra layer of urgency, ensuring you’re on the edge of your seat, eagerly turning pages. Botello plays with the 180 day timeline in a way that is both unexpected yet emotionally satisfying.
For aficionados of punk rock, 180 Days offers a backstage pass into the chaotic world of Evo Korman, frontman of the iconic punk band The Pill Splitters. Tomas seeks wisdom from his idol, but what unfolds is a surprising journey of self-discovery, filled with unexpected twists and turns. As Tomas grapples with the image of himself as a budding “Great Man,” the novel becomes an insightful exploration of identity and purpose.
Architecture enthusiasts will revel in the vivid descriptions of the Bay Area, from the sleek lines of modern buildings to the eclectic charm of San Francisco and the East Bay. Botello, with his background as a Fulbright Fellow in architecture, weaves a narrative that mirrors the intricacies of design—a balance between order and chaos, much like the complexities of love and relationships.
But 180 Days is not just about architecture, punk rock, or love. It’s a celebration of imperfections in a world obsessed with curated perfection. In an era of social media façades, the novel encourages readers to embrace the messy, flawed reality of life and relationships.
As the 180-day countdown ticks away, readers will find themselves immersed in a whirlwind of emotions, laughter, and unexpected connections. This novel is not just a story; it’s an experience that challenges perceptions, ignites passions, and leaves an indelible mark on the heart.
Are you ready to join Tomas and Naomi on a journey that goes beyond the boundaries of traditional love stories? Brace yourself for a wild ride through the streets of the Bay Area, the pulsating beats of punk rock, and the unpredictable twists of the human heart.
180 Days by Alfredo Botello is set to be released on December 12, 2023, by Koehler Books. Get ready to be captivated. Get ready for 180 Days.
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