“Something Rotten,” Andrew Lipstein’s new novel, dives into the messy world of self-delusion, unpacking what it means to stay true to yourself when everything feels a bit off. Set in Denmark, the story follows Reuben and Cecilie, a Brooklyn couple escaping their chaotic life after a humiliating Zoom incident. Spoiler alert: it didn’t end well for Reuben’s career at NPR.

The couple heads to Copenhagen, hoping for a fresh start. Denmark, with its cozy vibes and bicycles, seems like the perfect escape. But things aren’t as idyllic as they appear. Cecilie’s ex-boyfriend, Jonas, is terminally ill, and his confidant, Mikkel, raises eyebrows with his questionable decisions. Why is Mikkel steering Jonas away from potential treatments? What’s really going on?

Lipstein cleverly weaves in themes from Shakespeare’s Hamlet—father-son dynamics, the nature of truth, and the struggle to stay genuine in a world full of deceit. But don’t worry, this isn’t a Shakespeare retelling. Instead, it’s a sharp, modern exploration of identity and morality.

While the book occasionally gets caught up in comparing Denmark to the U.S., it’s the characters and their tangled relationships that keep you hooked. Reuben’s journey from public disgrace to self-discovery is both cringe-worthy and compelling.

If you’re into thought-provoking fiction with a side of existential angst, “Something Rotten” might just be your next great read.