Shadow Ticket by Thomas Pynchon review – his first novel in 12 years tunes into rising fascism in the US

The GuardianTuesday, September 30, 2025 at 6:00:50 AM
Shadow Ticket by Thomas Pynchon review – his first novel in 12 years tunes into rising fascism in the US
Thomas Pynchon's latest novel, 'Shadow Ticket,' marks his return after 12 years, weaving a captivating tale set in prohibition-era Wisconsin. This lively whodunnit features a detective navigating a world filled with clowns, Nazis, and a missing cheese heiress, all while reflecting on the rising fascism in the U.S. Pynchon's sharp storytelling and intricate connections between characters highlight the societal issues of the time, making this book not just an entertaining read but also a significant commentary on contemporary themes.
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