Hooky Gear

'Barlay's evocation of the grimy end of Notting Hill, west London, is wonderfully written, with a convincing cast of characters, from the villainous to the inane. Dominated by the brooding figure of the absent sibling, this is a low-key treat'

The Times

Rarely does one read writing so inventive, yet so tensed against habituation; so exuberant, but so obsessed with the business of conveying depression, hopelessness and failure. What elevates Barlay from the crowds of undistinguished caper-writers is an extraordinary facility for creating and sustaining individual voices - this is a brilliantly literary novel. - Guardian

A disturbing peek into London's real underworld . A brilliant, haunting snapshot of a subculture which is really quite sumfink. - Big Issue in the North

'A nicely judged balance of insightful descriptions and world-weary sarcasm. It's full of colourful characters and the dialogue is fantastically rich ... Barlay's ear for slang and talent for getting it on the page is, like, the wickedest. Y'na mean?''

Independent on Sunday

'An extremely well written and provocative novel which makes Nick Barlay the Zola of North West London'

Kilburn Times

Barlay recreates the inner city's cold, closed world of deprivation, crime, drugs and violence with an expertise which recalls Chandler's expeditions to the seedier side of Hollywood. There's black humour on every page. Highly recommended. - Time Out

'It was very nice to pick this up and find a writer who is not only in command of his technique but seems to be have his finger on the city's pulse'

Guardian

Funny, poignant, oozing attitude and character, this is the final part of Barlay's urban trilogy. Hits the spot - Mirror