“An avalanche of sexual tension propels these narratives…. The title novella… is a miniature masterpiece.” New York Times Book Review
- Finalist, Paterson Prize
Inspired by a society obsessed with celebrities, Searle explores the glittery-dark underworld of ‘hopefuls,’ those who have been given the slightest hint of success — or even imagined success — and who are hungry for an audience, of any size.
Ranging from a woman’s relentless pursuit to be an actress despite her tendency to faint onstage, to a disintegrating family who comes together if only to watch the imaginary lives in a soap opera, the stories in Celebrities in Disgrace capture the thrill and lure of fame and our insatiable need for it.
Praise for Celebrities in Disgrace
“Vivid and distinctive.” Booklist
“Energetic and unpredictable.” Library Journal
“Her novella demands attention for its nuance as well as its wallop.” Kirkus
“Unpredictable and ripe with unique prose.” Book Magazine
“Searle is able to tap into that elusive place where humor and tragedy converge… creepy and colorful… a fine collection.” Time Out New York
“An avalanche of sexual tension propels these narratives… The title novella, which features a woman who wants to portray the skater Nancy Kerrigan in a television movie, is a miniature masterpiece that holds a dirty mirror up to our often obsessive fascination with the rich and famous.” New York Times Book Review