Title: Dark Vanity
Author: Gregory E. Seller
Publisher: Gregory Seller Consulting, LLC
ISBN: 978-1737168201
Pages: 306
Genre: Mystery
Reviewed by: Philip Zozzaro

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The dreams of becoming a star in Hollywood have filled countless minds. The fame and fortune which accompany stardom tantalizes the uninitiated, though many are unfamiliar with the dark side of Hollywood. The actors and actresses that populate the silver screen are human, capable of folly. Hollywood offers a sense of rebirth for those looking to assume a new persona. There are those who are willing to protect the stars and those willing to exploit their foibles.

In author Gregory E. Seller’s mystery novel Dark Vanity, readers are introduced to Blair Killian, an actress nearing the crossroads of her career. She is set to take on a new co-starring role on her TV series. A chance tryst soon leads to an invitation for Blair’s eyes only. Wonder turns to horror as Blair sees a man plummet to his death.

Or did she? Blair sees a very athletic individual jump from the 10th floor of an apartment, but she doesn’t see him land, and she doesn’t see a body. Blair’s self-preservation skills kick in, and she retreats from calling anybody. However, there were watching eyes viewing the alleged swan dive, those looking to exploit Blair and make her pay. Her soon to be co-star, Reid Garrett, is a well-known actor, but lesser known sleazeball blackmailer. Reid and his manager have amassed a large file of salacious materials on fellow Hollywood players that would make J. Edgar Hoover seem a mere amateur. Reid, however, doesn’t know that someone is hip to his latest ploy.

Alton Price is a Hollywood fixer, a cross between “Ray Donovan” and real-life fixer Eddie Mannix. Alton is former CIA, has contacts throughout law enforcement and is a believer in fair play. He is devious, but also someone you’d want on your side in times of crisis. Alton wants to know more about what Reid has in store for Blair, especially as Alton’s digging turns up interesting factoids about Reid. One thing becomes crystal clear as the plots and double-crossing begins – nothing is ever as it seems.

Dark Vanity is an intensely absorbing mystery beginning with a bang and not letting up an iota. The plot is entertaining with dark humor, mystery, thrills and drama. The various characters appearing throughout are amusing, whether they be Blair – star fallen on hard times; Alton – troubleshooter extraordinaire; Cameron Haines – agent to the Stars or the evil Reid Garrett. As the storylines come together, the reader will be more than satisfied as a fascinating human drama has enfolded in front of their eyes.