I read the back cover of a friend’s book. It didn’t sound like the sort of book I’d enjoy but I gave it a go as she kept nagging me and telling me how much she enjoyed it.

I found the first few pages hilarious. As I settled down to the rest of the book I found it intriguing. I also found it very annoying. Why on earth does David keep trying to make contact with this guy James when he’s such a selfish, full-of-himself person. But David does persist (bless him) and gets himself involved in all sorts of new experiences.

There are some interesting characters, some quite amusing, some sad and one or two that are pretty eccentric. The story is well written and kept me interested. You’re never quite sure what it’s all leading too…until you get to the end chapters.

Don’t be put off because you have no interest in darts. I have no interest whatsoever, but it didn’t stop my enjoyment. Darts features very little. Psychology and human nature are the main players.

Paul Abraham’s novel is hard to categorise, but, without any shadow of doubt is excellent.

A strange, but fascinating (and endearing) combination of unlikely subjects are bought together with superb craft, and woven around a strong and compelling narrative. Set in the seventies, there are echoes of Zadie Smith, but this is altogether more down to earth.

Part mystery, certainly part thriller, laced with laugh out loud humour and characterisation, partly surreal and yet painfully gritty, Murakami would be a good point of reference.

I couldn’t put it down, and am still disturbed and amused in equal measure. A beautiful book !