Jack is a gay man struggling with his sexuality. When he meets Laurent Richelieu, an elegant but incredibly mysterious Frenchman, he thinks his bad luck with relationships has ended. However, as they begin to court, Jack experiences horrifying events involving vampirism, paranormal activity, and possible reincarnation that make him question his sanity. With the help of a self-described Voodoo High Priestess named "Queen Raphaella," she attempts to alter his predestined future, but is his fate already sealed? Are Laurent's intentions genuine, or is there a sinister plot involving two other vampires, Stefan and Fabien?
"Suspend your disbelief. Allow the art of the storyteller to guide you through twists and turns in the world of the undead. From 18th century Paris to the later part of 20th century New Orleans, vampires became real, spirits were summoned, physical and spiritual love survived all odds, and good engaged evil in an unwinnable battle. This novel will please the lovers of vampire tales."
"The Darkest Gift is the perfect book to read on a dark and stormy night."
"Stand back, Lestat! A book for lovers of Anne Rice!" - "Handeland's debut novel reveals a world of love, lust, vampiric jealousy, and human rage, all wrapped up in a tight gay bow. Perfect for those who loved Anne Rice."
Len Handeland's tale of vampire love and loss finally hands the spotlight to characters who have too often been left in the shadows of other tales. This wonderful story spans centuries and unflinchingly takes on difficult topics around relationships, love, and loss while telling the stories of fully developed characters who happen to be vampires and just happen to be gay. These characters wrestle with their identities and relationships. There are so many great twists and turns that it's impossible to predict where the story is going and, further, impossible to put the book down. It feels like there have been notable vampire ages with a primary author at the lead - Bram Stoker, Anne Rice, Charlaine Harris, all adding a layer of complexity to the vampire tradition... well, this book feels like the start of a new age of vampires and the Len Handeland era has begun.
I am thrilled to share that my debut novel, The Darkest Gift, is currently being reviewed for adaptation into a miniseries or motion picture. The pilot episode script, along with the book, has been submitted to various studios and streaming networks, including HBO, Netflix, Paramount-Plus, the CW network, Lionsgate Entertainment, Sony, and Warner Brothers. I'm keeping my fingers crossed for a positive response!
