Neutral, No Brakes

By: Patrick Howard

Narrated by: Patrick Howard

The story of a fading town, overcome by corrupt politicians and backroom deals, and the committed band of quirky souls intent on saving it.

The town of Morley lies in the path of an approaching juggernaut, driven by a scheming mayor and his merciless realtor girlfriend. Nearly every block in downtown Morley has been condemned through eminent domain for redevelopment. Morley Plaza, a humble strip mall about to be swallowed up by an influx of new money, is ground zero for this existential threat. Here we meet Donna and Geoff, a mismatched couple who run the used bookstore; Darla, Celine and Jeremy, a gender-fluid love triangle at Videodrome Rentals; Sunita Reddy, the cynical owner of Reddy Urgent Care; Richard Kornbluth, owner of Mr. Richards, Morley’s last hair salon; and Nic, a recent parolee and Richard’s prison pen pal. Despite his release, Nic feels trapped and curses his fate, until a tragic event sends him into a panicked flight that will alter his life and the town's future forever.

Lawlessness, neglect, and exploitation foretell a desolate future for the embattled town, but Morley’s colorful inhabitants resolve to confront their shared and private struggles together. Each seeks redemption and meaning as they wrestle with matters of sexual identity, personal responsibility, and the anguish of choosing between self-preservation and loyalty to those they love. Through ingenuity and heroic persistence, they doggedly fight to reach higher ground. Their poignant, uplifting stories reflect the complexity of human relations and the threads that connect us all.

Based on true events, Neutral, No Brakes addresses contemporary issues of gentrification, homelessness, unapologetic greed, political expediency, and their effect on persons often overlooked by society. It bears witness to the value of strong community and economic justice. It is a tale of and for our times.

©2022 Patrick Howard Brunett (P)2022 Patrick Howard Brunett