So, some 10-ish years ago someone thrust the first Glasgow trilogy book into my unsuspecting mitt.
I think I liked it, I honestly can't recall, but I do have a lingering memory of that person seeming to be surprised I had read it.
Almost as if they hadn't read it themselves, having only bought it based on the hype and good reviews.
But I digress...
Onwards then, to book two.
The first thing to note, and yes I had forgotten, is the first three pages is the cast of characters. You'll need this as once Mackay gets going he doesn't trouble himself with explaining who anyone is.
You're expected to do your homework here.
But that is just part of the delight that is Mackay's writing.
How A Gunman Says Goodbye is a foot-to-the-floor, dirty and gritty, low-life crime thriller. He hits the gas on line one and doesn't stop until the very abrupt anding.
Underneath the dirt, however, is a deeper tale. One of relationships, growing old, balancing work and your love life.
All told with a dark, sardonic humour.
The only problem with this book is when to read it. Because you need time. A quick chapter here and there won't cut it. Once you start, you'll want to hang on til the final pages.