Merlin's Pawn

About the Book

The life of a working-class shape-shifter in Las Vegas, a high-rolling sports-book bet runner and low-flying dope runner, and his amorous adventures with a woman who is a child in bed, and vice versa. Cool professionals to crack-crazed crackpots, small-time cons to working carnies, Merlin’s Pawn is a fast-paced ride through of one of America’s most exciting cities.

About the Author

Aquarius 1943, raised near White Sands NM, son of a rocket engineer and an artist. Science-fair winner, thespian, Chess Club, swimmer, gymnast, and (eventually) martial artist. College in geophysics, then jet and helicopter pilot training. Gunship pilot, 101st Airborne, Viet Nam, 1968. Distinguished Flying Cross, but drummed out for marijuana. [The novel SACRIFICES.] From the DMZ to Woodstock. Three quick divorces. Sex, drugs, rock'n'roll, and religion. Psychedelics, Scientology, Wicca, Tao, and Jesus. Folk music composer, actor, singer, playwright, TV show host, occult publisher's editorial assistant, and founder of The Scribes Of Osiris. [The novel LOST ILLUSIONS.] 1980, returned to Las Cruces to raise daughter Nieve (casino management) and son Nathan (artist and musician), working as a ghostwriter, free trader, sitcom actor, airline pilot classroom instructor, executive pilot for a commodities importer, and other curious callings. In Las Vegas, James continues to write.