Futura, 1986, 160 p

Massie is described in the blurb on the back of this edition as “Perhaps the finest of living Scottish novelists.” That reputation was built up in subsequent books. However, this, his first novel, originally published in 1978, entirely fails to justify that encomium.

Former gaolbird Anthony Atwater is seeking to capitalise on an inheritance but since he is resident in the Savoy Turkish Baths “it’s convenient and they ask no questions” and has little by way of identification he is finding that difficult. He comes into the orbit of Colonel Beasley whose wife and daughter (the lubricious Polly) are both having an affair with the more than seedy Horridge, a man whose main recommendation, according to Polly, is that he’s “good in bed.” But she wonders if that’s enough.

Eventually she decides it’s not and takes up with Atwater. In the meantime the book rather meanders between Atwater’s acquaintances. None of the characters are really striking and they fail to engage empathy.

Signs of the times this was written in abound. The colonel refers to “The Negro” (who is Dr Seth Ngunga) and the words “poofs” and “niggers” appear in the dialogue of a policeman.

I read this mainly for completeness. Massie is one of the best Scottish writers of the last fifty years. Look elsewhere for evidence of that though.

Pedant’s corner – despite this being a reprint:- goloshes (galoshes,) decided the safest role was merely nodder (nodding?) burk (berk,) submensally, (?) “you’ve taking your time” (you’re,) Tippi Hendren (Tippi Hedren,) burglarised (the burglary may have been in New York but still…)