The Adulterants

by Joe Dunthorne
The Adulterants cover
Good Books rating 4.23
Comedy/Humor
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Paperback • £9.99
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  • ID: 10539
  • Added: 2026-01-25
  • Updated: 2026-01-28
  • ISBN: 9780241980989
  • Publisher: Penguin UK
  • Published: 2018-02-08
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

The Adulterants is a wickedly funny and tragicomic novel by Joe Dunthorne, exploring the life of Ray, a freelance tech journalist navigating the complexities of modern adulthood. With lacerating wit and wry affection, Dunthorne dissects the urban millennial psyche, delving into themes of ironic misanthropy, semi-ironic underachievement, and the struggles of competitively sensitive men. The novel is praised for its caustic charm and joyous diagnosis of contemporary ills, making readers laugh out loud even as it breaks their hearts. Ray's journey is one of self-discovery and misadventure, as he grapples with his career, relationships, and personal demons. The story is a memorial to a lost generation, capturing the essence of modern everyman struggles with innocence and diabolical humor. Dunthorne's sharp observations and vivid characterizations make The Adulterants a compelling and relatable read for anyone who has ever felt like they're just trying to figure it all out.

Reviews
London Review of Books · Theo Tait · 2018-03-22
compelling 4.00

The novel is brief and accessible, yet carefully crafted. It offers a unique perspective on friendship and personal growth.

The reviewer appreciates the novel's concise yet impactful storytelling. They note that the author's careful craftsmanship shines through, making the narrative both engaging and thought-provoking. The novel's exploration of friendship and personal growth is particularly noteworthy, offering a fresh take on these timeless themes. The reviewer finds the book to be a compelling read, with a balance of humor and introspection that keeps the reader engaged.

Quick quotes

    The novel is brief and accessible, yet carefully crafted.

    It offers a unique perspective on friendship and personal growth.

    The author's careful craftsmanship shines through, making the narrative both engaging and thought-provoking.

Book Munch · 2018-03-13
entertaining 4.20

The novel is a black comedy with a dark underbelly. It's a romp that delves into the complexities of modern life.

The reviewer describes the novel as a black comedy that doesn't shy away from the darker aspects of life. They appreciate the book's ability to balance humor with more serious themes, creating a narrative that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. The reviewer finds the characters to be well-developed and the plot to be engaging, making it a enjoyable read despite its darker moments. Overall, they see the novel as a successful blend of comedy and social commentary.

Quick quotes

    The novel is a black comedy with a dark underbelly.

    It's a romp that delves into the complexities of modern life.

    The characters are well-developed and the plot is engaging.

The Guardian · Stephanie Merritt · 2018-02-02
brilliant 4.50

The novel captures the anxieties of modern life with humor and heart. The characters are flawed but endearing, making their struggles relatable.

The reviewer praises the novel for its sharp wit and poignant exploration of contemporary issues. They highlight the author's ability to blend humor with deeper emotional resonance, making the characters' struggles both funny and heartbreaking. The novel's setting in London during the 2011 riots adds a layer of social commentary that enriches the narrative. Overall, the reviewer finds the book to be a brilliant commentary on modern life, filled with memorable characters and insightful observations.

Quick quotes

    The novel captures the anxieties of modern life with humor and heart.

    The characters are flawed but endearing, making their struggles relatable.

    The author's ability to blend humor with deeper emotional resonance is commendable.

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