A Cigarette Lit Backwards: A Novel

A Cigarette Lit Backwards is a literary novel set in the punk-rock scene of the early 2000s, following a young woman's journey to acceptance and the consequences of her actions. It is darkly comic and sharply observed, exploring the yearning to be noticed and accepted.

Format: Hardback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 27 October 2022
Publisher: Abrams

A fiercely observed and darkly comedic literary novel set in the punk-rock scene of the early 2000s, Tea Hacic-Vlahovics' A Cigarette Lit Backwards delves into the depths of one young woman's relentless pursuit of acceptance. Kat, consumed by an insatiable desire to blend in with the North Carolina punks, is willing to go to extreme lengths to achieve her goal. Fate intervenes when she finds herself backstage at a punk show, where she crosses paths with a rock star and catches the attention of a photojournalist. The next morning, an online magazine publishes pictures of her, instantly catapulting her into the realm of groupie icon status. However, Kat's pursuit of fame comes at a heavy cost, as she makes a series of devastating mistakes that erode her sense of self and alienate those around her.

As the truth unravels, Kat realizes that she has already lost most of her friends, and her chances of redemption seem bleak. Determined to confront the journalist who initiated this whole ordeal, she embarks on a journey to New York City. Along the way, she confronts her own demons, struggles with her identity, and ultimately discovers the true value of acceptance and self-love.

A Cigarette Lit Backwards is a poignant and thought-provoking exploration of the human condition, offering a raw and unflinching portrayal of the yearning for recognition and the consequences of pursuing fame at any cost. Through Kat's journey, readers are invited to reflect on their own experiences and the lengths they would go to be accepted by others.

Weight: 378g
Dimension: 148 x 218 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781419762895