JP resident and author Christopher Irvin has published a crime noir novel set in Mexico named “Federales.”
“Federales” tells the story of Mexican Federal Agent Marcos Camarena, who comes out of retirement from law enforcement to look after a woman embroiled in Mexico’s drug war.
“I’ve always been a fan of the underdog. Noir’s focus is on the ultimate underdog, the loser, doomed to failure no matter how hard they try and persevere,” Irvin told the Gazette. “I love the grit and realism of noir, its ties to the struggle of the American Dream, especially in current times, the way it can focus on the everyman, regardless of class. There is no happy ending and I love that because it rings true.”
Previously published in many anthologies, this is Irvin’s first solo release. He has previously been published in “Thuglit,” “Crime Factory” and “Weird Noir,” as well as in online-only publication “Beat to a Pulp” and “Shotgun Honey,” where he also works as an editor.
Irvin’s last release before “Federales,” was in “Winter Animals,” a collection of short stories released by his writing group to benefit the Charity Protect, which is dedicated to preventing child abuse.
While he has not set any stories in his neighborhood of JP, Irvin said the area is nevertheless “inspiring.”
“It’s wonderful to see the community come together for events like First Thursday and the JP Music Festival. There is a lot in JP built around creating that you don’t necessarily see in other neighborhoods around Boston,” he said.
“Federales” was published this month by One Eye Press.
The cover of “Federales” by Christopher Irvin. (Courtesy Image)