In his last couple of novels Welsh has managed to introduce a neat piece of self-referencing. If you don’t want to see the reference, then do not look at the first comment to this article. You have been warned.
Let’s get the criticism of the novel out of the way first. The title; it would seem to suggest something grander than the plot delivers. But this is a minor quibble.
Irvine Welsh does not do light hearted yarns, and with the primary theme of predatory paedophilia, this novel is no different. Throughout the novel, the terror is hinted and sporadically referred to until the latter chapters. So far, so conventionally structured. The main action is in Florida, but it appears that the best bits are set in Edinburgh.
But do not despair, if drugs and booze are what you are after, there is plenty here. Staple Irvine Welsh stuff. Also, Welsh still retains the ability to shock. This isn’t his best book but is still an enjoyable read. This book gets 3/5.
“It was nonsense of course, like most crime in fiction and on television, but it kept the action moving along. It entertained.”
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