Gillian McAinsh reviews THE MAN I THINK I KNOW by Mike Gayle, published by Hodder and Stoughton
It’s hard to review a novel like The Man I Think I Know without revealing plot details that might spoil it the book for new readers.
However, it is safe to say that this story of a most unusual friendship between two men with a shared past is beautiful, and would suit book clubs and others who enjoy a heartwarming read.
The main characters Danny Allen and James DeWitt are 30-something, living in Coventry and life has not given them a straight line to success and happiness. Their home city is an ironic setting as, in a manner of speaking, both men, for different reasons, have been “sent to Coventry” in the metaphorical sense as well.Cruel curve balls have knocked them down and sent them in a different direction to that expected when they each were shining stars at high school.
When The Man I Think I Know opens, Danny and James are both at an emotional low-point. Little do they know, however, the other may hold the key to their rehabilitation.
It’s rare to find a book about male friendship and Mike Gayle does it with great sensitivity and warmth, leading to an uplifting story. He’s also got a light touch, with dashes of humour that give it a spark.
The Birmingham-born author has written more than a dozen best-selling novels, including My Legendary Girlfriend, The Keeper of Lost Things and Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine.
The Man I Think I Know is a story of opportunities given and taken as well as taken and lost, and how courage can show itself in many ways.