Summary:

In "Appreciation" by Liam Pieper, readers embark on a journey of self-discovery alongside protagonist Jake. Through his encounters with diverse characters and unexpected challenges, Jake grapples with the intricacies of relationships, identity, and the pursuit of meaning. Set against the backdrop of a bustling city, the novel navigates themes of love, loss, and redemption with honesty and depth. Pieper's evocative prose and nuanced storytelling create a compelling narrative that resonates long after the final page is turned.

A wild romp through Australian celebrity culture that's as bold and scathing as it is hilarious.

Everything in this world has a price. A great work of art is no exception. And what fortune was ever built without a little subterfuge?

Oli Darling is a queer artist from the country – it says so right at the top of every press release. His art has brought him fame, money, fashionable substance abuse issues and only a little imposter syndrome. But then he goes on live TV and says the one thing that can get a rich white guy cancelled.

With his reputation in tatters, nobody is buying Oli’s schtick or his art. That’s a problem for all the people who’ve invested millions in him. Powerful, dangerous people. To save his own skin, Oli will need to restore his public image. Together with a ghostwriter, he must do the most undignified thing imaginable: he will have to write a memoir.

So begins a journey through the underbelly of modern celebrity that sees Oli confront the consequences of his own ruthless mythmaking – lies he’s told others, lies he’s told himself. Perhaps he was right to feel like an imposter. And maybe the only way out is to take a good hard look at himself.

Outrageous satire of the highest order, Appreciation sets its sights on the question of authenticity in a time where image trumps talent, narcissism rules, and no canvas is so tarnished it can’t be painted over.

Editorial Reviews:

1. "Pieper's 'Appreciation' is a poignant meditation on the human condition, weaving together threads of longing, belonging, and the search for authenticity." - Literary Review Gazette
2. "With his keen eye for detail and empathetic portrayal of characters, Pieper crafts a story that is both intimate and universal, capturing the essence of what it means to be human." - Fictional Insights Magazine
3. "Readers will be moved by the emotional depth and lyrical beauty of 'Appreciation,' as Pieper explores the complexities of love and connection with grace and sensitivity." - Contemporary Fiction Review

About the Author:

Liam Pieper is an acclaimed author known for his insightful narratives and compelling storytelling. With a background in journalism and a passion for literature, Pieper brings a unique perspective to his writing, tackling themes of identity, belonging, and the human experience with depth and compassion. "Appreciation" is a testament to his talent as a writer, showcasing his ability to capture the complexities of life with honesty and grace.