Sacred Monster — Donald E. Westlake

Jack Pine was born to be a Hollywood star. He has no morals, no scruples; he will not hesitate to do anything or love anyone if it might advance his career, get him the best roles, or project him ever more firmly into the spotlight.

And success does come, beyond the imagination of Jack's agents and co-stars--even beyond the hopes of his boyhood friend Buddy Pal, the man who carries with him the dark secrets of Jack's past.

Buddy stands apart, aloof; he alone truly benefits from Jack's careening ambition and artfully charming conniving. Others who depend on Jack may fall by_ the way_ side, but how can the affable star be blamed?

In fact, Jack Pine can be excused anything--until he carries out the final sin, for which there can be no pardon ...