The Devil's Playground

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Set in 1920s Hollywood, this thrilling narrative explores the making of a terrifying silent film and the quest for its rumored sole surviving copy. In 1927, Mary Rourke, a Hollywood studio fixer, is summoned to the lavish home of Norma Carlton, a prominent silent film star. Norma has been involved in a secret project, a horror film titled The Devil's Playground, which is said to have unleashed a curse on its cast and crew. When Mary discovers Norma's lifeless body, she begins to question the dark rumors surrounding the film. Fast forward to 1967, when journalist Paul Conway, a film enthusiast, embarks on a quest for the elusive copy of The Devil's Playground, considered a Holy Grail among film buffs. Aware of the film's tragic history, he delves into Hollywood's past, uncovering a world filled with secrets, fabricated identities, and an obsessive pursuit of image. As Mary navigates the egos and distractions of the film industry, she unearths a sinister truth that far exceeds her expectations. This gripping tale showcases Craig Russell's skillful storytelling and deep research, making it his most compelling work yet, sure to captivate American readers.