Overexposure by Hugo Rifkind

Times columnist Hugo Rifkind's debut novel is set in the glittering, celebrity-drenched world of London's party circuit, where the sole purpose of existence is to be seen and, just maybe, to create a scene. The novel follows gossip hack Macaulay Lewis from hangover to hangover in his attempts to uncover the identity of Fingers, an old-school jewel thief. Fingers' very targets are the objects of Lewis' lust and desperation – celebrities and their hangers-on. The plot is joyfully farcical, and Rifkind deftly moves between actual celebrities and the fictional kind (if, in fact, there is a difference), making a mockery of everyone along the way. The satire tends toward nibbling rather than biting, but it is enjoyable nonetheless. Rifkind's protagonist is likeable, despite his annoyances; he is a shallow, caddish screw-up, but also has his bad points – and some allusions to hidden depth of character. Clever pop culture references abound (from Futurama to Celebrity Big Brother, and everything in between) and these form a large part of the book's appeal. This is a light, comic read, with many snorting, giggling and laugh-out-loud moments and some gratifying celeb-bashing. Those looking for something deep or profound on the superficiality of celebrity-obsessed culture might do better to look elsewhere, but for anyone wanting a witty, sharp novel that might just scrape the surface a little, this is an immensely enjoyable read. [Laurel Wilson]