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Join an international group of writers and book lovers this Saturday afternoon as we celebrate the launch of Hate Story by Jeff Cottrill.

"From Twitterized mobthink to Facebook fact-bashing to knuckle-dragging attacks on science, our current reality -- online or off -- presents formidable problems for the satirist. Cottrill takes up that challenge and runs with it, skewering journalists, online vigilantes, and cyberbullies with undisguised glee. Keep an eye on this one; he may be just the outrageous chronicler outrageous times demand."

-- Giles Blunt, bestselling author of the John Cardinal mysteries

A violent mob disrupts the East Toronto funeral service for unemployed loner Paul Shoreditch. The riot attracts sensational media attention, especially online, but is soon forgotten. Meanwhile, aspiring journalist, film fanatic and Internet addict Jackie Roberts discovers a bizarre online community that has been sullying Paul’s name for years.

What did Paul do to these people? Why is their animosity so intense? Why are they so secretive? As Jackie learns about Paul’s life story, she finds herself empathizing with him despite her gut feelings – but nothing prepares her for the truth.

This offbeat mix of satire and mystery dares to tackle some of the most fiery and controversial social topics of our generation. Darkly funny, subversive and sometimes outrageous, Hate Story takes a sledgehammer to the disturbing modern trend of Internet bullying and shaming.

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The launch event on Zoom will feature a reading from the novel, as well as guest readings by Heather Babcock, Timothy Carter and poets from around the world! Plus a Q&A session and a movie trivia quiz.

View the Facebook event page here.
Zoom link will be posted on the day of the event.