Masterfully crafted by Allen Wolf, ‘Hooked’ takes readers deep into the life of an autistic man and his new prostitute girlfriend; polar opposite misfits whose only hope of staying together comes from the love they will forge. Wolf’s research for the original screenplay exposed him to the frank truths of living with autism, as well as the uncontrollable global human trafficking epidemic. While this is a witty and poignant love story, it comes with a meaningful wake-up call.
Los Angeles, CA -- (SBWIRE) -- 04/27/2015 -- When Allen Wolf set out to write what he hoped would become another award-winning film, he had no idea the heartbreaking truths he'd discover during his research would radically change the course of this project.
Wolf had been toying with the idea of 'Hooked' for some time – a story about a prostitute forced into the world of human trafficking falling in love with an autistic man who doesn't understand her predicament. When Wolf learned shocking details of just how bad the nation's human trafficking epidemic really is – he transposed his screenplay into a novel, and has finally published worldwide.
Using his masterful storytelling skills, Wolf manages to get the very serious message in 'Hooked' across to readers through a unique brand of romantic comedy. It's hugely entertaining and thrilling, all while raising awareness for something often swept under the rug.
Synopsis:
Desperate to find a soulmate in New York City, Shawn goes on one awkward date after another until he encounters the alluring Violet. He starts dating her, but his autism prevents him from understanding she's actually a prostitute. Drawn in by his kindness, Violet appreciates Shawn's quirky nature but conceals what she does after dark.
This comedic tale of two misfits takes a dramatic turn when they are forced to make life altering choices. Their only hope for a future is to discover the courage that comes from loving someone deeply.
"I thought a story about two people who are both dating-challenged, from completely different walks of life and the opposite from each other in major ways would stage a compelling dynamic that could teach all of us something about love," explains Wolf, a multi-award-winning feature film writer, director and producer. "I felt the story deserved a broad audience, hence my decision to release it first as a book."
Continuing, "I consulted with many anti-human trafficking agencies during the book's composition, and it was heartbreaking to hear stories from women caught directly in that fierce underworld. I was then faced with the challenge of portraying our leading lady's story realistically, but in the context of a romantic comedy that would expose hard truths to as wide an audience as possible. I also did dozens of hours of research into autism, and was previously unaware of just how deep an autistic person's love can be for those they choose to enter into relationships with. This also becomes a major authentic theme throughout the book, again wrapped up with heart-warming wit and convincing honesty."
Critics agree, leaving a slew of positive reviews. Kirkus Reviews comments, "Its cinematic potential clearly shows. The high-concept narrative is entertaining, well-paced, and highly visual … it's a charming, humorous, and hopeful tale. A quirky, touching love story that offers insights into autism, religion, and personal tragedy."
Script Shark adds, "A rewardingly nuanced, three-dimensional, and charming– if unconventional–love story. Strong character voices define the entirety of the plot, while the genuine chemistry between the central roles creates a natural, seemingly effortless appeal within both their relationships and their perspectives in broader terms … Superb characters, strong dialogue, and a polished overall execution wind up rendering a finished product that seems in many ways both moving and entertaining."
Blue Ink Review writes, "By turning conventions of contemporary romance on its stilettos and swapping out the typical sassy, fashion-obsessed female protagonist for an autistic male who reads jokes from index cards, Wolf puts a fresh spin on the genre. Adapted from his award-winning screenplay, Hooked shows signs of its origins with snappy dialogue and humorous, well-staged scenes … A sweet and entertaining romantic comedy, Hooked touches on autism and the power of faith. It will appeal to any reader who enjoys a blend of quirky characters, humor and drama."
'Hooked' (ISBN 978-0692274279), from Morning Star Publishing, is available now: http://amzn.to/1HsOzIE.
Wolf donates 10% of the proceeds from 'Hooked' toward organizations fighting human trafficking.
About Allen Wolf
Allen Wolf has won multiple awards for his storytelling as a feature film writer, director and producer. He married his Persian princess and they are raising their precocious daughter and newborn son. He has travelled around the world and enjoys hearing people's life stories.
The screenplay upon which Hooked is based has won numerous accolades. His first feature film, In My Sleep, was released throughout the world, won multiple film festivals and is available on Amazon and iTunes.
Allen is also a multiple award-winning board game creator. His games You're Pulling My Leg!, Slap Wacky, JabberJot and Pet Detectives have brought smiles to hundreds of thousands of people around the world.
Allen graduated from New York University's film school where his senior thesis film, Harlem Grace, won multiple festival honors and was a finalist for the Student Academy Awards. Allen cherishes reading to his daughter, traveling with his family, chocolate and visiting Disneyland.