‘I can’t remember a modern British debut that offers a more convincing portrait of so many different walks of life, or that paints its portrait of an era and a region with greater credibility.’ Andrew Holgate, Sunday Times In 1996, just before the rise of New Labour, Reverend Gore returns to his native Newcastle charged with planting a new church in one of the city's rougher estates. As he settles into the local community, he becomes involved with Stevie, a local ‘security consultant’, Lindy, a street-wise single mother, and Martin, an ambitious local Labour MP. But these relationships draw Gore into a moral crisis. This extraordinary debut novel is driven by sharp social observation, darkly desperate humour and an undercurrent of impending violence.‘Kelly’s seriousness of intent and direct moral interrogation call to mind contemporary American giants Roth and Mailer.’ Joel Rickett, Independent on Sunday‘Utterly engrossing.’ Stuart Kelly, Scotland on Sunday‘A refreshingly ambitious and strikingly accomplished first novel.

’ John Gray, Independent.