I chose to read this book as a member of Rosie Amber’s Book Review Team and received a copy from the author. This does not alter my review in any way.
Sammy Rafferty is past his prime. Having gained notoriety for violence within football where his fearsome reputation came in handy as a player, and an afterlife in management slick with slippery schemes, he now found himself at a ground he’d never heard of. The home of Burntbridge Palmers.
The stadium is decaying, not unlike Bill Stroat, groundsman, and his dog, Auger. Bill assumes Sammy is there as the new gaffer and takes him on a tour.
Through this story there are flashbacks to Sammy’s life as a professional footballer and his time in management where he was taken under the wing of Ray McEvoy and entered a world of dirty dealings and criminal activity. All of which he was paying for now.
I have read several of Leonards books, this being another short one at around 80 pages, and this was just as well written with tight, engaging prose and a way with words I find appealing. It is probably not as fast-paced or filled with horror as some of his others and the focus is on the football but the ins and outs of that made for a great story. Recommended for all with a passion for the game, who like their reading on the darker side and who enjoy good writing.
Thank you Georgia.
You’re welcome, Rosie.