Ciaran McMenamin has certainly not played it safe with his first literary offering.
The Northern-Irish actor’s debut novel tackles politics, religion and the gritty underbelly of Northern Irish society in the Nineties.
Vinny Duffy and his best friend Jonty work in a Chinese restaurant to fund their alcohol and drug-fuelled escapades, and dream of one day earning enough to escape their uninspiring existence.
When Vinny’s offered an opportunity to make some fast cash, he sets aside his loyalties for his chance to break free. But of course, it can never be that simple and amongst the mayhem, tragedy lurks around the corner.
Skintown is both riveting and thought-provoking. Vinny Duffy is a vividly portrayed character and the novel powerfully reflects on what was an incredibly tumultuous time within Northern Ireland.
But religious and political backdrop aside, the rest of the novel undoubtedly feels a little lacklustre and overdone. Adventurous and bold yes, but it falls somewhat short of packing a real punch.
