After a lifetime of witnessing paranormal experiences, Tehachapi resident G.E. Perlin began writing a novel.

Writing began in 2015 while living in Seattle, Washington. This year, Perlin self-published the book titled, “The Dark of The Grey: Omnibus.”

“We live in an amazing time where one is able to write a book and publish it themself,” he said. “I’m happy that I was able to do that and get my book out there as soon as it was done. I’m currently looking for an agent to represent me, and in time I expect to have this published in the public sector.”

Perlin, a graphic designer and motion graphic designer, has lived in Tehachapi, off and on, for 30 years. He said he found influence for his book from his experiences living in the community.

Perlin answered a few questions about his book.

Loop: How are you promoting your book?

Perlin: I was honored to be featured on the City of Tehachapi’s podcast (“TehachaPod”) to discuss my book in September. I’ve been utilizing social media and word of mouth marketing while I’m searching for an agent. I’m also hoping to do a book signing at Dorner Family Vineyard next spring.

Loop: Do you have a target audience?

Perlin: I think that anyone who loves action, thrilling plot twists and a foreboding sense of doom, will enjoy this book. It is fast paced and replete with intellectual dilemmas and quandaries.

I have made sure to bring dynamic characters as well as extremely descriptive environments for one’s mind to play in, but ultimately, it is up to the reader to paint the picture.

Loop: What was your inspiration for this story? Did any aspects of the story come from your time in Tehachapi?

Perlin: As a young man growing up in Tehachapi, I had many experiences in my home which were paranormal and set me on a path of spiritual discovery. My mother always saw something in my writing, specifically my poetry, and wanted me to continue writing. It wouldn’t be until years later when I decided to actually sit down and write a book where I hoped to marry my poetic voice with a novelist’s intent.

Loop: How long did it take you to complete the book?

Perlin: It took five years and spanned two states and five cities. Perhaps it could have taken less time, but most of the process of writing the book was done while holding a full-time job. Always a balance on the tight-rope of responsibility and passion.

Loop: Where can people buy your book?

Perlin: You can purchase my book in either Kindle or hardcopy at http://www.thedotg.com, or you can search for “The Dark of The Grey: Omnibus” on Amazon.

In the coming months, I will also be releasing an audio version which will include sound effects, background music and professional voice-over actors.