The Richmond Fontaine front man’s first novel has been described as being just like one of his songs; and the comparison is apt. Vlautin specializes in gritty narratives of real-life Nevada…sometimes violent, mostly sad, but always human. The tale of how Frank Flannigan rescues, defends, and nurses his brother Jerry Lee when he unwittingly kills a teenage cyclist in a motor accident is presented in a conversational manner, dominated by dialogue that cannot possibly have been studied; every word is genuine and from the heart. "I bought a six pack of beer and drank them as I flicked through the TV channels" is a typical statement and these words sum up the down-to-earth, non-judgemental tone which prevails, as Frank takes to the freezing roads from one small-town motel to the next, rallying his brother’s spirits by telling him stories, drawing the reader in at the same time. Although the circumstances are downbeat, there’s a warmth and innocence here which is truly life-affirming. Despite the inevitability of the conclusion, feelings of joy are scattered throughout when the world throws a lifeline to these innocent losers, such as when Frank’s inspiring mentor sells him a bargain car, or when he unexpectedly wins a bet on a boxing match. Written in a style that sweeps you along and fills one with affection for the unlikely characters which populate it, The Motel Life is a truly inspiring debut.
