Scrase's novel is not a traditional one in any sense; rather than make any effort to sugar-coat events from his life, even just by neat story-telling, pleasant wording or heightened drama, the portrayal of his life is simple and truthful. His writing is blunt and unfriendly, as were his experiences, and he keeps nothing secret from the reader. This is a man who ran brothels, took drugs and even spent time in prison. But this is also a man who loved his wife and his children and ran legitimate businesses. He is no stereotype, nor is this book, but to say much more would be to give away the book's greatest strengths. The book's highlight is Scrase's insight and the constant personal thoughts he gives Scrase talks of regret, loss and love in almost equal measure to his mention of criminal activity. If you want stylisation, glorification or bland 'easy-reading' then stick to what's familiar. But if you want something really interesting, meaningful and powerful then do yourself a favour and explore Scrase's memoir - it deserves your time.

- Review by Dr Henry Spicer.