Compelling, vividly written and shocking, All the Colours of the Town is not only the story of an individual and his community – it is also a complex and thrilling inquiry into loyalty, betrayal and duty.
Reviews
“An authentic, atmospheric and ambitious debut.” —Val McDermid
“McIlvanney is deft at weaving the language of politics, both of the hearth and of ethical reportage, and the jargon of journalism into a thriller that is bolted together by both … The book’s real heft lies in delivering a gripping, unflinching meditation upon the suspicions that still twitch in the Northern Irish air like the proverbial net curtain. McIlvanney has flair and assurance and executes a powerful tale with all the dexterous sensitivity and ballsy swagger the subject is due.” —Scotland on Sunday
“All the Colours of the Town is a distinctive and striking debut. One quality that makes the novel stand out is Liam McIlvanney’s portrait of the deep-rooted tribal tensions in Glasgow and Belfast.” —Times Literary Supplement
“There’s nothing like a thriller done really well and All the Colours of the Town is a perfect example of why talented writers ought not to shy away from tackling genre novels. Noir doesn’t need to be pap; this is a smart and engrossing crime novel.” —Observer
“This is a bold, impressive debut. Its best writing turns the conventions of noir fiction on the politics of devolution to find individuals compromised and nations wanting.” —Daily Telegraph