Ugly

An epic tragicomedy spanning three generations, UGLY explores the horrifying and hilarious truths of man's inhumanity to woman, delivered with unforgettable characters and indelible dark humor in the grand tradition of John Irving.

Three generations of women, one horrifying and hilarious story of defiance.

Charlotte Adams escapes a destitute orphanage in prewar London, only to find herself in the lavish but equally treacherous home of one of England's wealthiest families. Her daughter, Margot Kenworthy, flees to America's heartland, where she takes refuge in a dangerously misunderstood finishing school. Her daughter, Cleo Portman, heads to Hollywood, where she takes on the predatory modeling business in shocking and unprecedented ways.

In the grand tradition of John Irving, David Michael Slater, acclaimed author of Fun & Games and The Vanishing, delivers a sprawling tragicomedy chock-full of remarkable characters and indelible scenes. An unforgettable listen, UGLY is a breakneck rollercoaster of a ride.

© 2025 HighBridge Audio (Audiobook): 9781696617291

Release date

Audiobook: 14 October 2025