This is Ardal O'Hanlon's debut novel. I say debut,
because I hope that it is not the last that he writes. O'Hanlon's talents
stretch far beyond the playing of Father Dougal Macguire in Channel 4's cult
comedy, Father Ted. As befitting the novel of a comedian, this is a highly
humorous read. However, this is black, cynical comedy of the highest order.
Unlike Father Dougal, there's nothing dim or cute about this book, which plumbs
the depths of darkest despair. It is the story of Patrick Scully, a young Irishman
in early Eighties Dublin, and of his mounting rage at the incomprehensible
world which springs up around him. The novel benefits a great deal from the
structure that O'Hanlon has created. Part of the novel derives from the diary
of Francesca, Scully's girlfriend, and provides a powerful insight into how
Scully is seen by others. Here, Scully is truly from Mars, and Francesca from
Venus, and their stormy relationship could fuel any number of Self help books.
I was particularly impressed by the portrayal of Francesca, whom O'Hanlon
imbues with a real depth of character. There are a few moments of caricature,
namely Scully's mother, but even she has a certain amount of truth. "The
Talk of the Town" is one of the best reads I've had this year, and the
novel certainly lives up to its name.
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