The Art of Love (& Loathing)

All that Arthur Kimble wants is for life to go back to the way it was, but as the head writer of a literary magazine that may or may not be going under, a pill-popping alcoholic struggling to stay sober, and the close friend to a quick-witted talking pigeon, the odds aren't exactly stacked in his favor. Fueled by the love of his two teenage children who currently reside with his ex-wife, he nonetheless holds onto the belief that all is not lost. It isn't long, however, before Arthur's haphazard attempts to recreate the past have damaging effects on the present, and, even more dangerously, on the future. The Art of Love (& Loathing) is the narrative of a human in the modern world trying to find what truths are hidden beneath all the contradictions of life. This novel seeks to inspire fresh perspective, self-examination, and the exploration of answers that might otherwise seem too intimidating to face. Perhaps, it may even spark a little courage.

About the Author :
The Art of Love (& Loathing) is Stephen Daniel Ruiz's debut as an American novelist. His other professional work includes dozens of short stories and poems and one stage play. These writings span subjects from addiction, relationships, parenthood, and mental illness to questions of philosophy, moral dilemmas, and ethicality. Though Stephen Daniel Ruiz began writing prose and poetry as a boy, he spent an equal portion of his youth focused on songwriting as a singer and a pianist. As an adult, his overseas service in the U.S. Marine Corps did not diminish his love of writing and music. After his return to civilian life and the birth of his fourth child, he refocused that lifelong passion for writing prose and dedicated most of his energy to refining his skills as a writer.

Review :
"A thoughtful, emotional, and at times hilarious novel, this book is a magnifying glass on modern life with all its unfair pitfalls and daily existential crises, reminding readers of what unifies, rather than divides. The novel has the capacity to inspire both belly laughs and crying in public; it is subtly powerful in its relatability, and thoroughly enjoyable. Partly confessional and entirely engaging, The Art of Love (& Loathing) is humorous and heartfelt, with potent dialogue that feels torn from reality, and just enough ridiculous moments to reflect every reader's personal level of crazy; the struggles and emotions are real, while the redemptive plot is both emotionally and intellectually gripping." - Self-Publishing Review, ★★★★★ "The Art of Love (& Loathing) by Stephen Daniel Ruiz is an alternately funny and heartbreaking story...a wry, cynical, yet surprisingly touching look at life, creativity, identity, and love through the eyes of a flawed but likeable protagonist."