Wasteland by Becca Arbor is a dark and provocative literary thriller set in the glamorous but morally empty world of 2020s Los Angeles. The novel follows Brendan Childs, a wealthy young man who has grown up surrounded by privilege, luxury, and excess but feels increasingly disconnected from everything around him. As his search for excitement takes him deeper into the city’s nightlife, the boundaries between performance, violence, and reality begin to disappear. With its sharp satire, unsettling characters, and exploration of wealth and privilege, Wasteland offers a distinctive take on contemporary literary fiction.
Download Wasteland by Becca Arbor
PDF
EPUB
About the Book
Wasteland is the debut novel by Becca Arbor and the first book in The Wasteland Trilogy. Published by Atlas & Quill in September 2026, the novel is set between Los Angeles and the world of old English privilege.
The story centers on Brendan Childs, a young man with wealth, designer clothes, luxury cars, and access to a lifestyle that most people can only imagine. Despite having almost everything, Brendan struggles with a profound sense of emptiness. His pursuit of stronger experiences leads him into a dangerous nightlife where pleasure, excess, and violence increasingly overlap.
As Brendan moves through Los Angeles from Halloween toward New Year’s Eve, his encounters and choices become increasingly disturbing. The appearance of a mysterious figure who calls himself Patrick Bateman adds another layer to the story, connecting Brendan’s world to a darker vision of wealth, power, and moral detachment.
Book Information
- Book Title: Wasteland
- Author: Becca Arbor
- Series: The Wasteland Trilogy, Book 1
- Genre: Literary Fiction, Thriller
- Format: Novel
- Publisher: Atlas & Quill
- Publication Date: September 28, 2026
- Pages: 178 pages (paperback)
- Language: English
- Paperback ISBN: 9789199197401
- eBook ISBN: 9789199197418
- Setting: Los Angeles and England
Why Read Wasteland?
If you enjoy dark literary fiction, psychological thrillers, contemporary satire, morally complex characters, and stories about wealth and privilege, Wasteland is an interesting choice.
The novel stands out for its modern Los Angeles setting and its examination of a privileged character who appears to have everything but remains deeply unsatisfied. Readers looking for a darker and more unconventional thriller may find its combination of satire, suspense, and social commentary particularly appealing.
About Becca Arbor
Becca Arbor is the pseudonym of the author of Wasteland. The author has chosen to maintain a private identity, allowing the novel and its characters to remain the focus. Wasteland is her debut novel and the first installment of The Wasteland Trilogy, with Motherland and Marshland planned as the following books.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who wrote Wasteland?
Wasteland was written by Becca Arbor, a pseudonym used by the author.
What is Wasteland about?
The novel follows Brendan Childs, a wealthy young man living a life of luxury and excess in Los Angeles. His search for excitement leads him into increasingly dangerous situations.
What genre is Wasteland?
It is primarily literary fiction and thriller, with elements of dark satire and psychological fiction.
Is Wasteland part of a series?
Yes. It is Book 1 of The Wasteland Trilogy. The next books are Motherland and Marshland.
When was Wasteland published?
The book was released on September 28, 2026 by Atlas & Quill.
Who should read Wasteland?
It is suited to readers who enjoy dark literary thrillers, contemporary social satire, psychological fiction, and stories exploring privilege, excess, and morally complicated characters.
One thought on “Wasteland by Becca Arbor”