Invisible Monsters

Written by Chuck Palahniuk

Narrated by Anna Fields

She’s a fashion model who has everything—until a sudden freeway “accident” leaves her disfigured and incapable of speech. Enter Brandy Alexander, Queen Supreme, one operation away from becoming a real woman, who will teach her that reinventing yourself means erasing your past and making up something better.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Blackstone Audio
• Release date: Jan 1, 2006
• ISBN: 9780786147991

Chuck Palahniuk

Chuck Palahniuk’s fourteen novels include the bestselling Snuff; Rant; Haunted; Lullaby; Fight Club, which was made into a film by director David Fincher; Diary; Survivor; Invisible Monsters; and Choke, which was made into a film by director Clark Gregg. He is also the author of the nonfiction profile of Portland, Fugitives and Refugees, and the nonfiction collection Stranger Than Fiction. His story collection Make Something Up was a widely banned bestseller. His graphic novel Fight Club II hit #1 on the New York Times list. He’s also the author of Fight Club III and the coloring books Bait and Legacy, as well as the writing guide Consider This. He lives in the Pacific Northwest.

Reviews for Invisible Monsters

[ohernaes · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

What's in an appearance? Scheming characters moving around the theme of appearance and identity, with many twists. Will remember mostly the memorable family scenes (thanksgiving, christmas presents).

[tanya8dogearedcopy · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Having never before read or listened to a Palahniuk novel before, nor even seen a movie based on one of his books, I wasn't sure what to expect. Now, after having finished "Invisible Monsters" I'm not quite sure what to make of it! It's intense and perverse and more than a little wacked out (and definitely not for the socially conservative at heart) and I'm not sure I "got it" all, but it was fun, funny and fast. There were unexpected turns and a jumping stream of consciousness that keeps the listener on his/her toes. There were a couple places were the unrelenting sarcasm began to wear a little but Anna Fields (a.k.a. the late Kate Fleming) was spot on in this performance.

[wrysosrs · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

The warning at the beginning makes it seem more loose than the story actually is. It's pretty easy to follow even for me and I typically skim read. The story itself is like riding a roller coaster in the dark. You can normally anticipate turns and twists with outdoor coasts but this keeps you shrouded in darkness only to turn randomly and surprise you.More than once I had to put the book down and think, 'What did I just, wait a second, but...how?' It's really an amazing ride and worth the read. It was my introduction to Palahniuk based on a recommendation from a friend and I recommend it to anyone else hesitating to read this work.

[senorag163 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This was just too funny. Highly enjoyable.

[breadnbutter · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

At first I was concerned that the constant jumping around in the story telling would be hard to follow, but it surprisingly wasn't. For about the first 2/3 of the book it was about as straightforward as you can call a Chuck Palahniuk book, but the last 1/3 is where it really shines. Shocking twists (and I mean shocking) that I honestly didn't see coming. I was worried that this wouldn't be as good as Survivor but it is right up there in my opinion. It really is difficult to give a synopsis of the book itself, but all I will say is that if you are a fan of Palaniuk, or just a fan of downright craziness, then you should check out this book.

[thecrow2 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Another shot of Palahniuk's weird and grotesque fantasy. This time take a ride with an ex photomodell with no jaws and her extraordinary companion to their personal hell...

[namaste374 · Rating: 2 out of 5 stars]

Like reading a car crash I read to the end to find out what happened but I am not intending to read any others by this author!

[folkeb_2 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Chuck Palahniuk's novel Invisible Monsters initially catches the reader's eye with its unique book cover, but easily ropes one in with a writing style that goes from disturbing to hilarious to thought-provoking, even within a single sentence. The narrator of the novel has been shot in the face, thus destroying her modeling career and leaving her without a jaw or the ability to talk. Through her rehabilitation she meets the queen supreme Brandy Alexander, a transsexual who teaches the narrator that she can simply make up a new life and move on. Brandy and the narrator begin a life on the road along with a man named Seth, paying for their lifestyle by touring mansions for sale and stealing prescription drugs. Palahniuk's novel frequently jumps between different time periods, allowing the reader to piece together the narrator's story, which twists and turns in unexpected ways from beginning to end. While this novel is certainly not for the faint-of-heart, a fan of Palahniuk will see that it is one of his best works to date, and it offers a satisfying ending that is nothing short of jaw-dropping.Laurel C.

[hellokittyispretty_1 · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

this book is kind of weird and crazy. if you're looking for a dark read this fits the bill.

[perlle_1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

If you're not easily offended, this book is a crazy wild, fast-paced ride. Even though the ending was a bit far-fetched (even for this) I found myself not really caring. The ideas and the story are so entertaining, it was more about the journey.

[ngeunit1_1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I thought this was another outstanding novel by Palahniuk. I thought the pacing of the story was well and especially liked how a lot of the surprise in the novel came from character's true identities. But not just in the normal sense of a character's motive being different then expected, but due to the fact that many of the characters are addressed by different names throughout the novel, there are moments where we find out that two characters who we think are different are actually the same person. And this keeps the reader on edge and does not allow them to take names for granted throughout the story.I also thought this was one of the better openings of the Palahniuk novels. It really started with a bang, and even though we traveled back in time to grasp exactly what was going on, it did a really fantastic job of giving you a good "juicy" scene to get you interested in the novel from page one. The ending sections of the novel are everything that Palahniuk fans are to expect from him. The events really start to ramp up and surprises and shocking events are around every corner. In this novel in particular we get to see a scene in the first few pages of the novel, then at the end, armed with more information on the situation, view the event very differently, and this is very effective and interesting.At it's core this book feels like a story of many people searching for their identity and place in the world, which is something that at one level or not very relatable. The twists and turns throughout the novel mixed with a quirky narrative and some interesting characters make this a very enjoyable read.

[rexrobotreviews · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Invisible Monsters by Chuck Palahniuk is INSANE. This is one of my favorite books just because I was like 'wow.' Then I would turn the page and say 'wow' again. Over and over. I read this book probably 10 years ago, when I was in high school and it first hit the shelves. Even though there may be something on every page that will make you shake your head saying 'wow' or 'what the hell?' you WILL keep reading. You won't be able to stop and you will love it. It is like a bad car accident and you can't look away. You're too damn interested in the outcome- and you will love the outcome. The ending is fantastic! The majority of the story is about beauty- what does beauty mean? Who values it? How can it be good? How can it be a nightmare? The characters will suffer for and because of beauty. Palahniuk is making a very powerful statement with this novel. He flaunts his brilliant writing techniques all the way through the end and I think most people will love it or hate it. (I obviously love it- are you over my gushing yet?) The narrator of this book used to be a gorgeous super model, but is now left grossly disfigured after a messy shooting incident. Her jaw was shot right off, thus leaving just her tongue and top row of teeth. Everything she once had (such as a career and fiance) disappears. This is when we meet the brilliant Brandy Alexander. She is a beautiful, sassy transgender woman. Brandy likes pushing our narrator to do whatever scares her the most and tries to force her to forget the past. Now enters their male mutual friend... The three amigos go on a long road trip. The purpose of the road trip is so that they can find themselves, forget about the past and move on with their lives... not to mention have one hell of a good time. They visit mansions that are up for sale when they have Open Houses for potential buyers. With absolutely no intent to buy they steal the current occupant's prescription medications and use/deal it. Throughout the road trip they figure out some secrets they've been keeping from themselves and one another and form amazing friendships. There are ridiculous plot twists in this novel that you don't want to miss. In fact, I had to reread some of the paragraphs to make sure I read them right. Haha- and the more you read this author's work the more you love it. (I have read this book a million times.) I hope that anyone who reads this novel has a firm grip on reality and a good sense of humor ;o)

[tiffanyhickox · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

If I have said it once, I've said it a hundred times - I am in love with Chuck Palahniuk novels! Just when I think I have the plot pegged, he throws in something so psychotically absurd and fantastic that I am humbley reminded of his literary genius. The characters in this book may not be some of the most developed characters he has created, but this lends itself more to the time jump style of the narration than oversight. The ending was satisfying, and even optimistic. I definately recommend!

[ccourtland_1 · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

Chuck Palahniuk creates an incredibly realistic and twisted story. However, it is a bit overdone and by the end the reader may become a little immune to the extraordinary and by doing so, causes some of the twists and turns to become not necessarily predictable but perhaps not shocking. On the upside, Palahniuk did an amazing job at making a twisted original plot seem believable. Every character is fully developed and has a unique back story that out does the other one, creating a vicious cycle of complicated brilliance. In the style of Palahniuk this novel hits the mark. I would not recommend to everybody, but if you're a fan then check it out. Chuck Palahniuk may appeal to a more specific audience and this book fits within that scope.

[leo_depart · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

The plot is imaginative but not very convincing in its construction. Language and style of the book are great as usual. A quick read, interesting observations but overall nothing too exceptional.

[kanata_2 · Rating: 2 out of 5 stars]

Maybe it is because I'm older or because I've read too many of his books but they don't seem to stand out anymore. His themes of ugliness, man-boobs, and doing what isn't expected to reach a "real life" seem stale to me now. I could relate much better when I was in my early twenties. It was an alright book with some amusing passages but nothing terribly exciting. Not something I would reread.

[queencersei · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

A beauty queen is horrifically maimed in a shooting/car accident. As she copes with her new life of disfigurement the story jumps from her past to her present. In her past she relives her childhood feelings of being overshadowed by her gay older brother, Shane. Shane is kicked out of the house and apparently dies of AIDS. Her former fiancé Manus, who also has sexual identity issues. And in her present, she is part of a pill-popping house scamming ring with Princess Brandy Alexander and Ellis aka the ex-fiancé Manus. The book starts out strong, but sadly the author seems to get lost in his own plot as he tries to tie all the various plot threads back together. Still, it makes for an imaginative and interesting read.

[thelittlereader · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

not at all what i expected. invisible monsters was comical and shocking, particularly towards the close of the story, in the rather atypical ways that only palahniuk could manage. definitely worth the time, but still coming up short of choke.

[okrysmastree · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

I don't think I would've enjoyed this book nearly as much had it not been such a quick read--I only spent an afternoon on this one. As I'd venture is typical of Palahniuk, most of the characters are more caricature, and many loose-ends are left streaming by the ending. The ending itself is an unsatisfying bit of deus ex machina, though I can't say I was expecting much realism after the way the story had been progressing from the beginning. In short--it's a diversion, and definitely entertaining, but don't bother with this one if you're looking for characters to connect to or an exceptionally clever plot.

[sszkutak_1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Full twists and powerful images, Invisable Monsters was a wonderful novel by Palahniuk. The drama that he portrays through his characters is fantastic and for anyone who enjoys sarcasm and dark humor this is def. a book for you.

[rebeccaann_1 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

This was my first venture into Chuck Palahniuk and I must say, I was not disappointed. Invisible Monsters is the story of a young woman (the name is never given until the very end) who has just suffered the traumatic experience of having the lower half of her jaw shot off. As she travels the country (and a little bit of Canada) with her two friends, Brandy (a transgendered MTF) and an astonishing handsome man, Seth, she simultaneously goes on her own journey of self-discovery. I loved the language Palahniuk uses in this novel. Yes, it's a bit confusing at times as the story is by no means linear, but I found it to be a very emotional, raw sort of language. He says what he needs to and no more. Palahniuk doesn't need to use any sort of poetic language to get his point across. His simple choice of words makes it nearly impossible to put the book down. It draws you in and holds on tight until the very end.There were a lot of twists in Invisible Monsters as well. At first, they were breathtaking and amazing, making you see the story in a whole new light. However, after awhile, they got old and semi-predictable (I sort of guessed the last major twist in the story - the one of who's truly responsible for the narrator's accident). It became almost soap operaish near the end. Apart from that small complaint, though, I found the book amazing and I would definitely recommend it!

[mrbookface · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

Hideously-scarred woman goes on the run with insane pre-operative transexual. Adventures follow.Let's face it, Palahniuk doesn't write great female characters. Especially when one of them's a man. Still, this book contains enough energy and imagination to more than make up for it.

[takeitorleaveit_1 · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

another very strange book with all sorts of twists and turns, but for a youngin' of 18 this is exciting stuff!not his best...

[ravenfire_1 · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

This book draws you in and makes it really hard for you to put down. I read it over the course of three and a half hours and just couldn't get enough. Envy and pride are the driving forces behind our main characters. The need to be something, anything, other than what they are.

[psybre_1 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Being my first eye-to-text encounter with Palahnuik, I was pleased. If you are as I was, knowing this author solely through seeing the film "Fight Club" than put aside any worries you have as Palahnuik as a novelist. I thoroughly enjoyed his masterful approach to the non-linear form and to the syncopated cadence of the narrative that compelled this reader to march step by step with Shannon through exquisite Pynchonesque frivolities, stop to enjoy the parties; and yet when the shit hits the fan (about every other page), I somehow felt able to stand aloof and ponder the pain and hostility with animal curiosity instead of really feeling with the character. This novel also has great fun with words, with lots of quotable variations, saying in effect in very inventive ways, "life is just ridiculous." The plot, then, being itself ridiculous (and marvelous), then reinforces this point. If the book had been able to deliver a richer, more philosophical message it would definitely earn the fifth point. I recommend and absolutely concur with kjarcand's review. Even more, I recommend reading this book.

[nm5spring085m5gunthe · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Invisible Monsters is one of my favorite books. It tells the story of a beautiful girl who becomes a supermodel because her parents pay more attention to her gay brother. She gets in a tragic accident and looses her ability to talk. She meets the amazing Brandy Alexander who is one surgery away from becoming a real women. They set off on a road trip to find who they are going to become. I love the way this book is written, it's very raw and uncensored. my favorite quotes:"Nothing of me is original. I am the combined effort of everybody I've ever known.""When it's time to reintroduce me to solid foods, their words again, it's pureed chicken and strained carrots. Baby foods. Everything mashed or pulverized or crushed. You are what you eat.""Hysteria is impossible without an audience. Panicking by yourself is the same as laughing alone in an empty room. You feel really silly.""Another thing is no matter how much you think you love somebody, you'll step back when the pool of their blood edges up too close.""The one you love and the one who loves you are never, ever the same person."I'm making my sister read this book.

[chasehimself08 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

One of Chuck Palahniuk's best novels to date. He tells the story of a beautiful girl that is shot in a tragic accident and has a mutilated face. This turns her world upside down in a series of events that will make you laugh, and shock you at the same time. A great novel and a very fast, easy read.

[kjarcand_1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Invisible Monsters opens on our nameless main character standing in the middle of a scene that is ten shades of chaotic. The lavish mansion they are in is on fire, pools of blood are creeping ever closer, and the end is near.Flashback to the beginning of the entire mess.The narrator, a former model & somewhat actress dependent on her beauty is in a hospital after a horrific accident. The young beauty is informed that half of her jaw is missing after a stray bullet hit her on the freeway, sending her and her car careening into a brutal mess.While in the hospital, our now mute narrator befriends Ms. Brandy Alexander, a woman with oddly mannish hands and a thing for prescription drugs and gaudy jewelry. The two become three when a young man, Manus, joins them when Brandy take the narrator under he wing. Brandy is a thief. The trio takes on pseudonyms and live in a fantasy world touring mansions that are for sale, stealing everything from Valium to codeine, and fleeing to Canada to sell the drugs and make a profit.Bits of the main character’s life fall in to place throughout the book; her missing brother who vanished after coming out to the family that he was gay, an estranged ex-boyfriend and the mysteries surrounding his departure, not to mention family facades and the pressures of having to beautiful all the time.Palahniuk sets up a unique heroin for the reader. Unable to speak, we see everything in honest, dark hues through the thoughts and emotions of the main character. The character development will keep any reader enticed and turning the pages, begging for more. The reader is shown the ugly side of humanity, as is the case in most books by Palahniuk, in a way that will make them think hard about who they are as a person.The relationships built with the characters and the dark, honest, holds-nothing-back narration will draw in any reader looking for a hero in the less-recognized grotesque. This book twists every time you think you have it figured out. The end and the way Palahniuk weaves together the final pages of his novel will stun.Favorite Passages/Quotes“If I can’t be beautiful, I want to be invisible.”“…no matter how much you think you love somebody, you’ll step back when the pool of their blood edges up too close.”“Hysteria is impossible without an audience.”“When did the future switch from being a promise to being a threat?”“When we don’t know who to hate we hate ourselves.”“Nothing of me is original. I am the combined effort of everybody I’ve ever known.”“First your parents, they give you your life, but then they try to give you their life.”“All God does is watch us and kill us when we get boring. We must never, ever be boring.”“What I really hate is myself, so I pretty much hate everyone.”“The one you love and the one who loves you are never, ever the same person.”OpinionThis book is an all-time favorite, and will be forever. My copy is underlined, highlighted, dog-eared, and pretty well beaten up. I have referred to this book dramatically as my grotesque bible. The way Palahniuk holds nothing back in his writing is very appealing to me, but I can easily see how some readers might think this haughty of him, and be turned off. All of his works lead down the path of the anti-hero and examine those issues we are far too reserved to speak of ourselves. I was entirely surprised with this book. It was nothing that I expected it to be, and that made me ecstatic. Use this book to look deeply at yourself and what you hold dear and try to see why and how and for what. The things we love the most are often times the things we are trying to run away from.When I finished this book, I was mad. Mad that I didn’t see it coming, mad that I didn’t figure it out… And mad there wasn’t more to read.Rating: On a scale of 1-5 stars, this book is a 4.5. If you’re into dark heroes and twist-in-plot novels that examine the human condition, this book is a must read. If you’re a bit squeamish or don’t like suspense, try some Nicholas Sparks. He’s about as opposite of Palahniuk as it gets.

[djupstrom · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

This book is a bowl full of crazy! I want to know what Palahniuk was smoking while he was writing this one!

[rcooper3589 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Every Palahniuk book I've read in the past I've enjoyed, and "Invisible Monsters" fits right into that category. I love Palahniuk's unique voice, his prose and sentence structure. Like in his previous novels, nothing is what it seems in "Invisible Monsters" and everyone is connected. And while Palahniuk's characters and stories are, at times, extreme, his ability to satire society is fabulous. FAVORITE QUOTES: Another thing is no matter how much you think you love somebody, you'll step back when the pool of their blood edges up too close. // She says, "You can't base your life on the past or the present." // People just can't stand not knowing something, she tells me. Especially men can't bear not climbing every mountain, mapping everywhere. Labeling everything. Peeing on every tree and then never calling you back. // And I want Seth dead. Worse than dead, I want him fat and bloated with water and insecure and emotional. // ...he told me that your parents are like G-d because you want to know they're out there and you want them to approve of your life, still you only call them when you're in crisis and need something.