Disgrace

by Dee Palmer, J.M. Coetzee, JM Coetzee
Disgrace cover
Good Books rating 4.06
Literary Fiction
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Paperback • £9.99
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  • ID: 6957
  • Added: 2025-12-07
  • Updated: 2026-03-10
  • ISBN: 9780099563129
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 2011-01-01
  • Formats: 2
  • Reviews: 4

Disgrace follows David Lurie, a disgraced professor who seeks refuge on his daughter's farm in South Africa after an affair with a student. The novel explores themes of guilt, redemption, and the complexities of post-apartheid society. /n/n As David's life spirals out of control, a violent attack forces him to reevaluate his relationships and the broader social dynamics at play. J.M. Coetzee's powerful narrative delves into the moral ambiguities and personal consequences of historical and societal change.

Reviews
Goodreads · Dee Palmer · 2025-12-07
harrowing 3.50

The book explores themes of shame and redemption, offering a poignant and thought-provoking narrative. The protagonist's journey is both harrowing and inspiring, making it a memorable read.

This book is a powerful exploration of shame and redemption. The protagonist's journey is both harrowing and inspiring, as they navigate the complexities of their past and strive for a better future. The narrative is poignant and thought-provoking, delving into the emotional and psychological aspects of the characters' experiences. The author's writing is evocative and compelling, drawing readers into the story and making them invested in the protagonist's journey. The book's themes are universal and relatable, making it a memorable read for anyone who has ever struggled with their past. However, the book's intense themes and explicit content may not be suitable for all readers.

Quick quotes

    I shamed my name. I am a whore. I am a disgrace.

    The book explores themes of shame and redemption, offering a poignant and thought-provoking narrative.

    The protagonist's journey is both harrowing and inspiring, making it a memorable read.

UCLPimedia · 2020-06-13
conflicting 4.00

The novel is incredibly conflicting and provides a commentary on post-Apartheid South Africa. It explores complex themes of morality and redemption.

This novel is a deeply conflicting read, set against the backdrop of post-Apartheid South Africa. It delves into the complexities of morality and redemption, making it a thought-provoking exploration of human nature. The reviewer appreciates the nuanced portrayal of characters and the intricate social commentary, which makes the book both challenging and rewarding. The themes are heavy, but the writing is compelling, drawing the reader into a world that is both familiar and unsettling.

Quick quotes

    JM Coetzee's Disgrace is an incredibly conflicting novel.

    Set against the backdrop of post-Apartheid South Africa, it provides a commentary on what it means to ...

    The novel is quick moving and understated.

Reddit - Recommended Books · 2018-07-01
stunning 4.75

The novel is stunning and one of the best pieces of writing the reviewer has read this year. It is a powerful and impactful read.

The reviewer was absolutely stunned by Disgrace, considering it one of the best pieces of writing they have read this year. The novel's power and impact are highlighted, making it a standout read. The reviewer appreciates the depth and complexity of the narrative, which leaves a lasting impression. The emotional and intellectual engagement with the book is noted as particularly noteworthy.

Quick quotes

    I just finished the novel and I'm absolutely stunned.

    It's one of the best pieces of writing I've read this year.

    The novel's power and impact are highlighted, making it a standout read.

Dogeared Daydreams · 2016-05-29
intense 4.00

The story delves into the complex dynamics of dominance and submission, offering a raw and intense exploration of power and control. The characters are deeply flawed, adding layers of depth to their interactions and relationships.

This book is a rollercoaster of emotions, diving headfirst into the intense world of dominance and submission. The protagonist, Mistress Selina, is a Dominatrix who commands respect and fear in equal measure. Her interactions with her clients are both captivating and unsettling, showcasing the raw power dynamics at play. The narrative doesn't shy away from the darker aspects of this lifestyle, making it a compelling read for those interested in the psychological and emotional complexities of BDSM. The flawed nature of the characters adds a layer of realism, making their journeys all the more engaging. However, the book's explicit content and intense themes may not be suitable for all readers.

Quick quotes

    As Mistress Selina, Samantha Bonfleur is the Dominatrix that clients line up for, giving them exactly what she thinks they need.

    The story delves into the complex dynamics of dominance and submission, offering a raw and intense exploration of power and control.

    The characters are deeply flawed, adding layers of depth to their interactions and relationships.

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