The inspiration for “Chasing Gwin”
My latest book, a whirlwind of crime, deception, and deep-seated emotion, springs from a fascination with the complexities of identity and the masks people wear. The genesis of this story lies in a simple question: What drives a person to become someone else entirely? From this seed grew a narrative rich in intrigue and suspense, exploring the depths to which individuals will go to protect, deceive, or even destroy.
The characters of Gwin and Paxton, the central figures of this tale, embody the duality of human nature—their actions are a dance on the razor’s edge between right and wrong. Gwin, a master of disguise, uses her skills not just to evade capture but to manipulate reality, crafting layers of lies that shield her true intentions. Paxton, a high-functioning individual on the autism spectrum, brings a unique perspective to the story. His meticulous attention to detail and profound sense of loyalty provide a counterbalance to Gwin’s more unpredictable tactics.
My inspiration is drawn heavily from the noir genre, where the line between hero and villain often blurs, creating a morally ambiguous world where motivations are suspect, and trust is a commodity few can afford. I wanted to delve into the psyche of my characters, to explore what happens when the façade begins to crumble and the true self begins to emerge from the shadows.
The setting plays a crucial role in my story, from the vibrant streets of Vienna to the historic grandeur of Budapest. Each location is chosen for its rich cultural tapestry and its potential to add depth and color to the narrative. The Danube River, a constant and flowing presence in the story, is symbolic of the ever-moving, ever-changing nature of our lives and secrets.
Technology and modern surveillance techniques are woven into the plot, reflecting our contemporary world’s concerns with privacy, identity theft, and the digital footprints we leave behind. The inclusion of elements like burner phones and digital surveillance mirrors the modern tools in a game as old as time—the game of cat and mouse, where what you see is rarely what you get.
Research for this book was immersive, involving not just the technical aspects of espionage and disguise but also a deep dive into the emotional and psychological impacts of leading a double life. Interviews with experts in law enforcement and psychology provided invaluable insights that helped shape the narrative’s authenticity and emotional truth.
Ultimately, this book is about the human condition—the deep-seated desires and fears that drive us to do the extraordinary, for better or for worse. It’s a tale of betrayal and redemption, love and loss, and the eternal quest for truth in a world that often seems shrouded in mist.
This project is a labor of love, a narrative puzzle pieced together with threads of reality, imagination, and the profound belief that everyone has a story worth telling, no matter how dark the chapters may seem.
Author Rick Incorvia