Tangled Web UK Review December 2000
Sidewalking by
Nick Duerden
pbk out September 00
(Flame)
at £6.99
Jake dropped out of college and into an endless series of temporary jobs,
while power mad brother Tom scaled the heights of the IT industry. When
their grandfather dies, it is Jake he leaves his inheritance to - a stash of
dirty money hidden in the shed at his allotment. Money Grandad made as a
result of his nefarious gangland activities. Money that no-one else must
know about. Ever.
Jake launches himself into the high life, spending dosh like water and enjoying himself big time. He acquires a new flat, a new wardrobe and a new
career. Then a moment of recklessness and an unwitting confession throw him into the spotlight's glare and into serious trouble. He soon finds himself
pursued by a money-hungry girlfriend, the law and an elderly gangster who thinks he's entitled to a share of the loot (but will consider payment in kind). Jake's fantasy turns freaky and the chase leads from the streets of London to the sidewalks of New York.
Sidewalking is a fast and furious gangster caper with an endearing and naïve narrator. Duerden's first novel is funny, full of twists and turns and
dollops of comic book violence. He takes a sideways look at sibling rivalry and contemporary obsessions and the struggle to regain some balance in a
life gone bad.
Manchester Evening News 20.10.00
(
Cath Staincliffe
- Author of the highly acclaimed Sal Kilkenny Mysteries set on the Mean Streets of Manchester)
