Four Hollywood men pursue the American dream in a cocaine-filled, sex-crazed culture.

A new collection of short stories from an English master, edited and with a preface by acclaimed author Russell Banks Originating in the folktale and with an occasional infusion of gothic horror or fantasy, A. E. Coppard’s stories still feel fresh and surprising today. Coppard came to the short story later in life but left an indelible mark on it. Staunch in his belief that the short story was a distinctive form with little relation to the novel, he wove his tales out of the substance of life in the English countryside, with its memorable and distinctive characters. Reissued with a new preface from award-winning and bestselling author Russell Banks, and including classic tales like “The Black Dog,” “The Handsome Lady,” and “The Higgler,” The Hurly Burly restores this enormously important writer to the position he deserves and introduces him to a new generation of readers.

Phil, a supporting character in the author's Hurlyburly, takes center stage in this haunting drama about trying to escape the past. A former mob hitman, Phil is in Hollywood trying to make it as a television actor. He's had a few bit parts, but is hardly a success, and he is largely supported by his wife, Susie, a waitress. Unfortunately, Susie desperately wants something in return, something Phil is not prepared or eager to give: a child. Phil is going nowhere fast when Sal, a mysterious man fr