This post was originally published at Novelicious.com and is now at WritingTipsOasis.com. WritingTipsOasis.com acquired Novelicious.com in June 2022.
Reviewed by Kelly Allen
Cameron Spark's world has hit rock bottom. He and his wife have separated and he is on the verge of losing his job after an 'incident' in the underground vaults of Edinburgh where he works as a ghost tour guide. Cameron moves in with his father and immediately receives a letter inviting him to London to see his old University friend, Christie.
Cameron hasn't seen Christie for 25 years, since they studied together at Lancaster University. A time when he was the 'reliable' friend to Christie (the rich Canadian), Tommo (the budding rockstar) and Bex (the love of his life). The four friends haven't seen each to her since a fateful night tore them apart, leaving one of the group near death and another in prison.
Cameron decides to accept Christie's invite and heads to London and, on the way, he hears the news that he has lost his job. Cameron feels alone; no wife, no job and soon no home.
He meets with the people of his past, confronting the real history between them. Memories flood into his mind, but will the truth ever come out about that terrible night and can Cameron ever move forward in his life and stop living in the past?
I have to be honest and say that the first chapter made me unsure as to whether I would enjoy this book or not. The style of writing is unique and quirky, and it took me a couple of chapters to really get into it. When I did get into it, there was no turning back and I flew through the chapters.
One of the elements I took a while to warm to was the concept of footnotes running throughout the book. However, once I got used to them I actually started to love them. They were witty, informative and just a little bit different – in a good way. I also liked the thought-provoking quotes running through the book, adding texture and layers to the story.
Sophie Duffy is such a talented storyteller, and the humour within the book is written perfectly, offsetting the sadder, more serious parts. The story and the people feel very real. Cameron's wit and dry humour made me laugh throughout the book, and he reminded me of many male students that I met back in the day when I attended university. Smart, reliable, kind … but always the friend and never the lover to the female of their group. Well, I certainly loved him in this book!This book is also quite political, historical and relevant to our time. Yes, there is humour within it, but there are also some very solid points to be aware of, such as differing opinions regarding the UK government and the monarchy. I thought these were slotted in nicely alongside Cameron's personal story.
I didn't really consider second guessing the outcomes in this book. The pace is pretty fast-flowing and I didn't get bored waiting for the next change in plot or the next exchange between characters. There was a great balance of serious stuff and humour and this kept me engaged throughout.
I can't say it enough, but I loved Cameron. He's ace and I can't help but wish he was my friend. Clumsy, no filter and more than anything, a real human being who makes mistakes and takes risks and is actually the hero all along!
This is a must-read … everyone needs a Cameron Spark in their life!
10/10