The downward spiral

Running The Light, the debut novel from stand-up Sam Tallent, is a grimly gripping study in self-abasement. Given the way it tracks in grotesque detail the tragicomic escapades of comedian Billy Ray Schaefer and portrays the grubby underbelly of the US Midwest, it's little wonder that the author of Vernon God Little, D B C Pierre, has found much to enjoy and admire.

Buzz review here.