.... This book was chosen as a total change of genre because the last three books, with varying reviews, were of similar ilk and although it was interesting to review three similar books by different authors, we feel a total change was much needed to see in the New Year. 2016! Thankfully, the last book was so bad that anything Mr Archer has put on his prison paper will be a blessing ...
.... Archer was chosen as light relief. His past reputation defines him as a masterful creative writer. Easy to read, good fluidity and well thought out stories with engaging characters. Not sure this criteria could be fulfilled with a straight forward account of life in prison, day to day monotonous regimes and real life characters. We were wrong to think that. Who would have thought that a book describing boredom and monotony could turn into a page turner. This book is the first of a trilogy and takes you through his early unsettled days at Belmarsh to his eventual stop in an open prison. It was a very interesting and easy to read, raising a few debatable issues along the way. Issues regarding the running of the prison system, child abuse and drugs to name a few. All his encounters are brief and their is some humour to keep you wanting more. All the hussies agreed it was a good read .... However ...
.... On the flip side of the coin. Prison life didn't really come across as 'Hell'. It is well known that most celebrities are treated well in prison. Although from the 'charmed' life Mr Archer appears to have lead, it probably was hell for him. At no point did he feel sorry for himself and it did make you want to find out why his sentence was so harsh as the details of his trial are not discussed in the book. It was also thought strange and unbelievable that some of the toughest murderers in prison opted to sign up for creative writing classes, led by Mr Archer, after only a few weeks. These characters are noted in the book and it is questionable how this trilogy of books could have be published as it was thought financial gain could not be made whilst in prison. Another view which was put forward was that he was shameless about his sentence and shameless about exploiting the people he met. The name dropping made him look self-centred with his me, me, me attitude, so much so that one hussie, although, values his writing skills, totally dislikes his manipulative character inside and outside of politics. He encouraged writing and not politics on the inside, which gave the impression he is a writer first and foremost and although his experience could be used politically, it is thought he probably would not use it to change things. Minor bug-bear was the varying price of his mineral water!!
.... Only one way to find out how 'Hell' turns out. Finish the trilogy. Now, from one trilogy to another. Next month's choice, by popular demand. A local Northumbrian writer's debut novel ..
The Devil's Band by Richard Anderton
.... Our discussion night was hosted at The Black Bull in Corbridge. Numbers were halved that night due to the excessive rain falling over Northumberland. The roads were treacherous so only two made it to the venue. The Black Bull is a friendly village pub with a good value, varied menu. The candlelite tables offered a cosy ambience in a relaxed atmosphere and the staff were attentive but not overly so. A very enjoyable night was had by mothers and daughters alike.
..... Our next meeting will be Tuesday, 2nd February 2016. Venue to be confirmed.
12/01/16
