New Release

The Rosy Dream

In Extremis is the second installment in Duggan’s The Rosy Dream trilogy and takes readers on an immersive journey through the contrasting landscapes of 1990s and 2008 Los Angeles. Jack Darmody, the protagonist, navigates a series of misadventures and encounters with peculiar characters, uncovering a web of secrets and revelations that challenge his understanding of life and his own identity. The novel skillfully weaves together the two timelines, immersing readers in the vibrant energy of Los Angeles and its gritty underbelly. With suspense, introspection, and dark humor, In Extremis explores the depths of human nature, the search for meaning, and the unexpected paths one may take.

As Featured On

A Word From The Author

Ostraca and In Extremis are the first two installments of Matt Duggan’s The Rosy Dream trilogy, offering a captivating exploration of protagonist Jack Darmody’s journey through the tumultuous landscapes of late 20th-century America. Ostraca, set in the 1990s, follows Jack as he embarks on a soul-searching road trip from New York to Los Angeles, confronting the traumas of his past and the existential questions that plague his mind. Through a series of misadventures and encounters, Jack grapples with the essence of existence, ultimately finding solace and understanding in the power of love.

Matt Duggan
Writer and Director.

Complete Series

Love’s the Trick

As Jack navigates through the vibrant yet gritty landscapes of Los Angeles’ urban sprawl, readers are drawn into a world where every encounter serves as a stepping stone towards enlightenment. Ostraca and In Extremis set the stage for the culmination of Jack’s odyssey in the third and final novel of The Rosy Dream trilogy. Duggan aims to complete the saga by 2030.

What Readers Are Saying

The genre blends elements of literary fiction, suspense, crime and mystery, as the narrative delves into themes of human nature, relationships, and existential questions amidst danger and uncertainty.

Jack fascinates as the storyteller of his own life. He is glib and sarcastic; he mocks and satirizes himself and others, dissecting their ridiculous motivations and personalities…his attempts to provide close and truthful insights into his inner thoughts makes him sympathetic, suggesting potential hidden depth not only in him, but in those he caricatures. In time, they are revealed to be more like him than different.”
Foreword Clarion

Reviews

An exceptional exploration of human connection set against the brutal competitiveness of the entertainment industry. Jack and all who move in his sphere, each of the diverse array of characters, and their own aspirations and moral quandaries, play out in fully fleshed-out recollections.
Asher Syed

Readers Favorite

Jack’s lingering trauma is effectively framed, and his romantic, introspective nature poignantly contrasts with Hollywood’s shallow glitz and glamor. Duggan’s prose shines when exploring Jack’s sensitivity and vulnerability…
BlueInk

Reviews

Libraries and readers seeking a feel of Kerouac’s classic ‘On the Road’, but in a more contemporary romp through California culture, its arts community, and the endeavors of a young man struggling with his potential for success and failure, will find In Extremis builds upon the previous story, but requires no prior familiarity in order to prove a stand-alone winner… In Extremis offers a vivid portrait of change that will delight all ages.
D. Donovan

Midwest Book Review

Ostraca is the first installment in Matt Duggan’s The Rosy Dream trilogy. Set against the backdrop of the 1990s pre-internet era, Ostraca follows the poignant journey of Jack Darmody, a Generation Xer grappling with the tragic loss of his parents. As Jack embarks on a solitary road trip from New York to Los Angeles, he is confronted by his past and the existential questions that haunt him. Through a series of misadventures and heartaches, Jack wrestles with the meaning of existence, ultimately finding solace in the transformative power of love.

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