James Ellroy: Demon Dog of Crime Fiction

James Ellroy is both an acclaimed crime novelist and enigmatic literary figure. Works such as the LA Quartet andUnderworld USA trilogy have become synonymous with his literary style as well as his self-styledDemon Dog of American crime fiction persona. Ellroy’s artistic vision, drawn from stylistic experimentation and the harrowing experiences of his early life, is contradictory and changeful and his influences range from fellow crime writers to classical music. James Ellroy: Demon Dog of Crime Fiction is a study of all Ellroy’s key works, from his debut novel Brown’s Requiem to the epic Underworld USA trilogy. This book traces the development of Ellroy’s writing style and the importance of his Demon Dog persona to American crime fiction. Drawing on extensive interviews and access to unpublished archival material, this book presents the most in depth and comprehensive portrait yet of James Ellroy, the man and author.