LISBON— Eugene P. Elcik of Lisbon Falls has written a gritty book of suspense, “Desperation of Souls,” following a young man’s struggle to escape poverty.

At age 77, Elcik wrote the book while battling cancer.

Ocean Bay, Maine, has all the appearances of a quiet, quaint little town. However, behind closed doors, turmoil erupts when Chris catches his stepfather forcing himself on his daughter.

“Desperation of Souls” follows Chris as he deals with his stepfather, falls in love with a woman from a wealthy, off-limits family, is seduced by a traitor and is implicated in a murder.

A Maine native, Elcik was previously employed as a civilian recreation naval officer, adjunct college instructor and appraiser.

“Desperation of Souls” is available online through Raven House Publishing, LLC of Maine, and at Amazon.com.