Heights Author Promotes Latest Work at Brooklyn Book Festival

Local author Justin Watrel recently participated in the Brooklyn Book Festival promoting his recently published book “Firehouse 101,” the first in a three-part series he is working to complete.

This was the Hasbrouck Heights resident and volunteer firefighter’s second appearance at this festival, which is the largest free literary event in New York City, presenting an array of literary stars and emerging authors.

Watrel calls being at the Brooklyn Book Festival a “great learning experience.” He says he enjoys getting perspective from his future readers. “Firehouse 101” deals with characters who are still dealing with the aftermath of 9/11 just one year after the attacks.

The story is based around Alex Livingston, a hotel executive who is transferred from his dream job in Honolulu to Brooklyn where he is forced to face the family he left behind and a city still reeling from the attacks.

This story deals with how the character’s lives were affected by 9-11, as opposed to a story about the attacks, explained Watrel. For example, the main character befriends a firefighter who is still haunted by his role in the events of 9-11.  

Watrel is finishing edits on his second book in his New York City trilogy, “Love Triangles” for publication hopefully by the end of this year or beginning of 2013.

He is currently writing the third book, “Dinner at Midnight” for a 2014 publication. Mr. Watrel is an active member of Engine One and the Volunteer Ambulance squad in Hasbrouck Heights. He is also a freelancer writer and contributor.  

Watrel publishes the books under the name Watral and they are sold under the umbrella company “Watral Books.” He publishes through IUniverse. The book can be purchased via the company’s website, Internet or bookstores.