It seems like a long long time ago that I was recommended this novel online by someone I chat occasionally with, but they knew enough about me that they knew I am a one eyed Collingwood supporter. But this novel still remains as my favourite go to read for when I'm bored or feeling a bit down.
Told from the view of Simon Murray, a mid 20years independent film festival manger; the novel revolves around the relationship between him and Declan Tyler, another 20something footy player whose potential is being held back by constant injury.
The writing of this novel is nothing if not superb as well as the characters and story arc; supporting characters are fully developed and you feel as if they're your best friends as well as Simons'. When the characters go through troubled times; you ache for them deeply which is further proof of how well Kennedy writes.
What is interesting is that this novel is now available as a second edition; which in my mind is not needed. While I accept the premise of second editions (after all, some errors are only picked up after publishing), I honestly believe that the minor changes to the novel (basically some tidying up of sentence structures, additional similes etc.) were not needed.
Most of all, this novel makes me ache for the day we get an out AFL player (ideally at Collingwood :P). If you like your romance without too much sexyness, but yet realistic I highly recommend this book. Plus it's always fun trying to pick out the locations of your home town.
Author: Sean Kennedy
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Pages: 376
Formats: Paperback, e-book, audiobook
Rating: 5 stars