SOUTH PADRE ISLAND, TX - August 29, 2026 - “The Gershwin Cutter,” a hard-charging thriller of action, suspense, and resilience set across the Lone Star badlands, has been released by Paul Damien, a professor at the University of Texas in Austin. The book was selected for Hemingway’s Book Club and features a foreword by Oscar-nominated actress Mariel Hemingway, granddaughter of Ernest Hemingway.

At the center is Blake, a steely, enigmatic force devoted to her one-eyed horse, Ira. As her cutting competitions—and her concealed past—reach a breaking point, the danger closes in. In parallel, retired detective Sonny Harrell pursues the men who killed his father, uncovering a ruthless syndicate determined to eliminate anyone who threatens its power.

When Blake and Sonny’s paths collide, they’re pulled into a vortex of violence. Outnumbered and outmatched, they must fight through escalating chaos—or be erased.

Damien’s story, based on true events, delivers more than thrills. It’s also a reminder that pain doesn’t have to define you. As Mariel Hemingway writes, “Being wounded does not mean you are broken.”

Perfect for readers who want tense investigations, explosive action, and a redemptive emotional arc, “The Gershwin Cutter” is a page-turner.

Purchase:

“The Gershwin Cutter” (ISBN: 9781972090190) is available worldwide at major retailers, including Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Paperback: $19.99; eBook: $3.99. Review copies and interviews are available upon request (Email: hello@pauldamien.net; Phone: 347-460-2777).

Advance Accolades (Learn more at https://pauldamien.net):

• BookLife Prize by Publishers Weekly: “This novel is expeditious and intricately detailed. The storyline is impeccably and effortlessly crafted… a perfect concoction of mystery, romance, drama, and adventure.”

• Kirkus Reviews: “An engaging story of a woman’s emotional journey… Damien creates a compelling, sympathetic, and admirable protagonist.”

About the Author:

Paul’s debut thriller “Nannerl’s Symphony,” inspired by Mozart’s history, was adapted into a screenplay and optioned by Paramount. “The Gershwin Cutter” is his second thriller, with more to follow. He holds a PhD in Mathematics from Imperial College London and serves as an endowed professor at UT Austin. He has published 100+ academic papers, received research awards, and was a finalist for the U.S. National Library of Poetry Award. Driven by a passion for literature and complex human narratives, Damien—a lifelong Emily Dickinson devotee—draws on a diverse range of interests, from opera to martial arts, to inform his creative perspective. He is the proud pet parent of a blue-eyed Alsatian.

About Manhattan Book Group:

Manhattan Book Group (MBG), based on Broadway in New York City, is a registered trade name of Mindstir Media LLC. Learn more at https://www.manhattanbookgroup.com/.

Media Contact
Company Name: Manhattan Book Group
Contact Person: Michelle VanSledright
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City: New York
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Website: https://www.manhattanbookgroup.com/