Set in a present-day version of a San Diego that is troubled by earthquakes and the imminent arrival of space aliens, "A Genuine Monster" is a darkly comical novel that recounts the tumultuous and apocalyptic last day in the life of a disturbed veteran, Nick Ames. The novel follows the course of Nick's last day, as he attempts to rejuvenate himself by connecting with his bizarre friends (a hack writer and a twisted waitress). At the same time, he suffers the traumatic consequences of searching for meaning in an America gone mad.