TALK OF THE TOWN: Jacob Polley: On the last day of the summer holidays in 1986, Christopher Hearsey is wondering why his best mate Arthur has suddenly disappeared.
He suspects that lippy Gill Ross, a few doors down, might know something about it….
Carlisle is already buzzing with rumours following an act of terrible violence and in order to begin his search for his friend, Chris must face down his own dread. He must face not only the consequences of his own actions, but of local ‘big man’ Bobby Grove, and his psychotic sidekick Carl ‘the black’ Hole who is keen to settle an old score.
This is the first novel by Carlisle-born Jacob Polley, 34, although Picador did publish two books of his poetry in 2003 and 2006. He was selected as one of the ‘Next Generation of British Poets’ in 2004.
It is a book of menacing and hilarious characters moving from the dark, aggrieved streets of the city to the agricultural hinterland of the Solway Firth. It is an excellent start for a talented writer.
Published by Picador, June 12, £9.99 (Trade paperback original).
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