Latest news with #JackWhalen


Globe and Mail
7 days ago
- Entertainment
- Globe and Mail
Richard Hughes von Hurst Discloses the True Story of Jack Whalen in His Latest Book
Richard Hughes von Hurst's new book, 'Jack - The Enforcer,' delivers a profound exploration of the life and legacy of Jack Whalen, a complex figure whose tale surpasses the limits of crime and heroism. In mid-20th-century Los Angeles, this biography digs into Whalen's change from a renowned World War II pilot to an infamous figure knotted in the city's underworld. The book offers a nuanced portrayal of Jack Whalen, often mischaracterized as just a criminal. Through exhaustive research and personal tales, von Hurst discloses the man behind the myth, demonstrating his daring acts, loyalty to family, and dedication to justice in a world rife with corruption. Readers will journey through Whalen's formative years, witnessing his struggles and accomplishments against the background of a lively and sometimes dangerous Hollywood. The story concludes with the tragic murder of Whalen. This pivotal event marked the end of his life and sent shockwaves throughout the community and the criminal underworld. Richard Hughes von Hurst's engaging storytelling seizes the soul of Jack Whalen, depicting him as a protector and a hero whose legacy continues to resonate. The book recounts events; it witnesses the lasting influence of one man's life on his family and the world around him. It invites readers to reexamine defined ideas about crime and morality, challenging them to look beyond the headlines and know the deeper realities. von Hurst, a Hollywood native, brings an exceptional perspective to this biography. Born into a family in St Louis with Irish and Scottish roots, he has long been captivated by the tales of his uncle, Jack Whalen. With a background in the entertainment industry, including acting and talent management, von Hurst combines his artistic sensibilities with meticulous research to create a gripping narrative. He has spent years gathering stories, interviews, and archival materials to ensure that Jack Whalen's life is presented genuinely and respectfully. 'Jack - The Enforcer' is an essential read for people interested in the complex intersections of family, history, and the complications of human nature. It illuminates that period's cultural dynamics, the influence of organized crime on society, and the personal sacrifices made by those who wanted to shield their close ones. As readers dig into the pages of this appealing biography, they will find themselves engrossed in a story specific to Jack Whalen and universally connected in its themes of faithfulness, fairness, and the struggle for honesty in a flawed world. The book will be accessible through local retail stores and major online platforms. Accompany Richard Hughes von Hurst in reviving a legend whose life was marked by courage and tragedies, and whose narrative deserves to be told.


CBC
11-04-2025
- Entertainment
- CBC
Winterset Awards mark N.L.'s best in literature
Each year, the Winterset Award celebrates the best literary works in Newfoundland and Labrador. This year, Jack Whalen and Lisa Moore were awarded in the non-fiction category, while Susie Taylor took home the Winterset Award for fiction.

Associated Press
19-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Associated Press
Jack Whalen's Explosive New Thriller 'A Victim of Circumstance' Unmasks America's Hidden Underworld
/ -- Acclaimed author Jack Whalen, whose life journey from a small-town dreamer to a global IT innovator and dedicated storyteller has inspired many, now delivers his most riveting fiction with real-life experiences, ' A Victim of Circumstance.' The story plunges readers into the depths of America's concealed criminal underbelly, where the fragile line between reality and nightmare is shattered in one fateful, life-altering night. Drawing on harrowing real-life events and decades of personal experience, Whalen weaves the story of a man who once led a quiet, isolated existence—a writer battling chronic pain and the demons of doctor-prescribed opiates—into an electrifying odyssey marked by mystery, betrayal, and survival. When a single, unanticipated incident sends him spiraling into chaos, every revelation deepens the intrigue and forces him to confront a dark legacy tied to his late ex-wife. Suspicious deaths echo from New York to Hawaii, each a piece in a puzzle that threatens to consume him before he can uncover the truth. 'A Victim of Circumstance' is an immersive experience that challenges perceptions and exposes the deceptive normalcy of everyday life. With heart-stopping twists, raw emotion, and a relentless pace, Whalen captures the essence of the American Dream gone awry, where resilience and ambition collide with the brutal realities of addiction, loss, and a criminal conspiracy lurking just beneath the surface. Prepare to be captivated, disturbed, and ultimately inspired. 'A Victim of Circumstance' is set to redefine thriller fiction and leave its mark on anyone brave enough to face the darkness within and around us. About the Author: Jack Whalen is a seasoned writer and visionary whose life story embodies the American Dream. Whalen's remarkable journey spans from athletic and academic excellence to a celebrated career in IT. Now, as an accomplished author with five published books, he continues to inspire through his writing—delivering raw, honest narratives that confront life's harshest realities with unyielding determination. Availability: A Victim of Circumstance is available now at major bookstores and online retailers, including Amazon. Amazon: Jack Whalen Jack Whalen Legal Disclaimer: