Bottom of the List
By Steve Attridge
Adam Bittermouth is a paranoid recluse.
But he has found a way to make a fortune.
Roebuck University.
As a seat of learning it might get bottom marks but when money-grubbing bean counters replace the professors the students become craftily manipulated cash cows.
From his opulent high-tech headquarters in a tower 500 feet above the campus, Bittermouth monitors every eccentric move of staff and students via hidden cameras … and dreams of the day when his money-spinning institution will be free of both.
Meanwhile, far below, a seething cauldron of political corruption, monstrous egos, existential terror, corporate bullying and murder is coming to the boil.
‘Bottom of the List’ is a hilarious story of academic life that introduces a memorable cast of comic and grotesque characters including the scary security guards Baz and Dave; the sex-mad failed poet Damion Dimmuck; Dr Duff with his paranoid terror of sick people; Mercedes Blonk, seducer of young men and radical theorist; and psychopathic dwarf, General Spinelli, a bloodstained South American dictator who enrols (at a price) to read (but misunderstand) classic literature.
As the plot unfolds Bittermouth’s plan becomes clear – will future generations be educated or programmed?
‘Bottom of the List’ is a brilliantly imaginative fantasy thriller that will appeal to fans of Neil Gaiman, William Gibson and Stephen King.
‘A mesmerising read.’ – Robert Foster, best-selling author of The Lunar Code.
‘Steve Attridge’s blend of narrative, dialogue and character touches is writing of the highest quality. An extraordinary breadth of imagination.’ – Neil Marr, publisher and writer.
Steve Attridge is an award-winning screen writer and novelist. His television dramas include Hawkins and The Boot Street Band.
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