Las Vegas, 1982. Brady Wilks, a teenage transplant from the Midwest, navigates a paradoxical existence in the dusty suburban outskirts of an aberrant 24-hour town built by the Mob. Isolated within his blended family and outcast as a newcomer, Brady eventually forges a brotherly bond with an older teenage neighbor, Mick, and his friend, Brett. But when Brett unexpectedly moves away, Mick invites a new kid into their pack, prematurely squeezing out the last remnants of their childhood in favor of a new world laced with cartel-supplied drugs and the deal of a lifetime.
Third Wheel is a powerful novel about belonging, betrayal, and breaking away from paths laid out by others, even when it means grasping at an uncertain future. It is the story of a boy trying to find his identity without the benefit of a role model by taking chances on random and fragile relationships forged in the predawn hours of a future boomtown.
Desolate and gritty, Third Wheel is a triumphant debut novel, and Brady Wilks is remarkable as a transformative protagonist. Four-time award-winning author Richard R. Becker once again shares his unique insight into the human condition.
The story was almost flawless … Richard R. Becker is a master storyteller. Five stars!
Brady Wilks emerges as a remarkably transformative protagonist. Five stars!
A dark and skillful teenage crime novel with plenty of heart.
This novel [is] a must-read for those seeking both entertainment and enlightenment.
A wonderful read that has an easy pace, interesting characters, and is set in a time when teenagers actually met in person instead of via iPhone. Five stars!
A sobering coming-of-age thriller that follows a root-worthy underdog. Emotionally driven and raw. Five stars!
Becker’s storytelling technique incorporates realistic characters and subplots into a vivid story that is as engaging as it is thought-provoking. Five stars!
A brilliant, mind-blowing debut novel that ends with a big surprise. Five stars!
Brilliantly written with a plot that holds the reader’s attention from start to finish, this is a novel readers will not soon forget.
Step into a world where poignant introspection and vivid storytelling intertwine—a realm that echoes the brilliance of JD Salinger’s timeless narratives. ...
Could you start by giving us a brief overview of “Third Wheel” and what inspired you to write it?
Third Wheel chose me more than I chose it as a debut novel. It began a short story in a 10-story collection called Ten Threads. ...
Introduction
Richard R. Becker is the author of the recently released coming-of-age thriller Third Wheel. It’s the story of a boy trying to navigate life and an improbable romantic interest in the dusty suburban outskirts of an infamous 24-hour desert town better known as Las Vegas.
There’s plenty to keep underdog Brady Wilks from a happy ending. There are backstabbing friends, gun-slinging drug cartels, ominous mobsters, and a resentful mother. Set in 1982, there is also an emphasis on the music that defined the era. ...
Award-winning Nevada author Richard R. Becker will release his debut novel, Third Wheel, on Aug. 21, 2023. The novel is a coming-of-age story about a boy trying to find his identity by taking chances on random and fragile relationships forged in the early boomtown years of Las Vegas, 1982.
In the ever-evolving world of literature, new voices continually emerge, capturing the hearts of readers worldwide. Richard R. Becker is one such voice, whose debut coming-of-age thriller, "Third Wheel," is taking the literary scene by storm. Released on August 21, the novel has already achieved remarkable success, leaving readers and critics alike clamoring for more. This article explores the extraordinary journey of "Third Wheel" and the rapid rise of its talented author. ...
In the heart of the neon-soaked nights of 1982 Las Vegas, where the glitz and glamour cast long shadows over the sinister underbelly of the city, emerges a captivating narrative that delves into the intricacies of friendship, identity, and the pursuit of an uncertain destiny. Richard R. Becker’s debut novel, “Third Wheel,” takes readers on a poignant journey through the labyrinthine streets of a Mob-built town, introducing us to characters who grapple with the allure of camaraderie and the pull of divergent paths.
There is a bit of a buzz around the debut coming-of-age thriller Third Wheel by Richard R. Becker, and for good reason. Although the book is fiction, Becker readily admits that he gave some of his childhood to protagonist Brady Wilks. ...
"When writing fiction, I set Monday aside to start a new project — a new story or chapter. I write as much as I can on Monday and then work on it on and off between client work for the rest of the week, finishing the draft by Sunday so I can start over again." - Richard R Becker.
What’s the story behind the story? What inspired you to write Third Wheel?
I didn’t pick Third Wheel as much as it chose me. After the success of my debut short story collection, 50 States, I had this idea to follow it up with another collection of short stories linked to those in 50 States.
Richard R. Becker, in his new novel, delves into the tumultuous journey of a boy grappling with identity amidst chaos. We are thrilled to bring you an exclusive interview with the man behind the magic.
Literary fiction readers are in for a treat. This week’s latest releases list is full of intriguing reads you won’t want to miss! The new releases list includes so many bestselling authors like Richard R Becker, Claire North, Amanda Prowse, and many more. Enjoy your new literary fiction books. Happy reading!
Dive into Richard R. Becker’s latest book Third Wheel and embark on a heartfelt journey of self-discovery and resilience. This gripping tale beautifully captures the struggles of identity and the power of human connections. A must-read for anyone seeking a story that resonates deep within. Highly recommended!
Although the novel is fiction, Becker channeled some of his experiences as a Milwaukee transplant struggling to fit in his new neighborhood and at home. Like the protagonist in his story, Becker’s family also relocated to Las Vegas in the early 1980s.
Third Wheel by Richard R. Becker is a riveting novel that keeps you hooked to the end. For a debut novel, Richard has woven a gripping tale with the right dose of drama and betrayal. This is the story of a newcomer Brady, who feels out of place in suburban outskirts of the city run by the mob. His life looks up when he meets his best friends Brett and Mick, but then life throws in a punch with Brett leaving and Mick taking in a new friend Alex.
