Pretty Things

Determined to introduce a syncopated new lingo, short story writer Susan Compo trips over her tongue in Pretty Things, her klutzy, madcap first novel. Giselle Entwhistle, agent to the stars, appears ""streaked in chenille"" and sets out to make money for her clients a motley group including former rock-and-roll hotshot Pandra, who may or may not be involved in a murder. Compo's contrived phrasings sometimes hit the mark, but more often they ricochet out of control. ( June 18)