8 Novels About the Dark Side of Fame & Fortune

Hailed as "breathtakingly suspenseful," Jean Hanff Korelitz’s novel is a thrilling tale about a writer who steals a story that is too good not to tell, leading to unforeseen consequences. Jacob Finch Bonner, a once-promising novelist, finds himself teaching at a mediocre MFA program and grappling with his lost career when he hears a brilliant plot from a student, Evan Parker. After Evan’s unexpected death, Jake seizes the opportunity to claim the story as his own, only to face the wrath of an anonymous accuser who reveals the truth of his theft. This engrossing narrative explores the questions of authenticity and morality in the literary world.

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A TODAY SHOW #ReadWithJenna BOOK CLUB PICK, this novel delves into the life of Grace Turner, a young actress who almost made it to the top before a shocking disappearance. Upon her return to Hollywood, she confronts her past, including her painful connection to director Able Yorke. This empowering narrative captures the struggle for redemption and truth as Grace navigates the complexities of her life in the unforgiving world of fame.

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Hernan Diaz’s critically acclaimed novel tells the story of Benjamin and Helen Rask against the backdrop of the opulent 1920s New York. As their wealth becomes the subject of gossip and secrets, the novel explores various perspectives that challenge the narrative of their success. With themes of intimacy and perception, _Trust_ intricately weaves a tale of wealth and the myths surrounding it, revealing deeper truths in the shadow of affluence.

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Yellowface is a bold exploration of identity, envy, and the often dangerous quest for success. When June Hayward steals the manuscript of her deceased friend and competitor, Athena Liu, she embarks on a journey fueled by desperation and ambition. As she rebrands herself and begins to gain popularity, the consequences of her deception threaten her newfound success and sanity. This sharp and witty narrative examines cultural appropriation and the perils of modern fame.

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A thrilling tale of revenge set against the glamorous yet treacherous backdrop of Miami about a woman hell-bent on destroying the life of the socialite who shattered her family. As Ivy infiltrates the elite social circles of Lola Maxwell, her obsession spirals into a passionate entanglement with Lola's husband, leading to dark twists and shocking revelations in a gripping narrative of deceit.

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A haunting and atmospheric thriller exploring the intricacies of a family obsessed with true crime. When Dahlia Lighthouse returns to her childhood home after her father's death, she uncovers chilling secrets that alter the course of her family's narrative. As she grapples with her brother's mysterious disappearance and her family’s eerie fixation on crime, the truths that emerge lead her down a path of haunting revelations.

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An instant bestseller and a Reese’s Book Club selection, The Paper Palace presents a complicated love story fraught with secrets and choices. Elle discovers old flames and hidden truths while at her family’s summer retreat, where she must decide between the life she built with her husband and the love of her childhood. Taking place over a single day, this emotional novel intertwines themes of love, regret, and the weight of decisions made long ago.

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An unnamed narrator's obsession with her glamorous neighbor—a successful actress—turbocharges her descent into madness. Set against the backdrop of a seemingly perfect life, this novel examines the darker sides of desire and envy as the protagonist's fixation spirals out of control. This debut novel blends dark humor and psychological depth, offering a gripping look at the perils of obsession and identity.

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