Kevin Bridges’s debut novel follows two Glaswegian men from vastly different walks of life whose paths converge in unexpected ways. First, there's Declan Dolan, a supermarket shelf-stacker with dreams of becoming a writer, struggling with self-doubt and depression, his sole companions being his Labrador, Hector, and his mentor-friend, “Doof Doof”. After a drunken scuffle with local gangsters lands him in hospital, his life collides with that of James Cavani—a small-town hero turned successful London-based actor and writer—who is in Glasgow tending to his sister recovering from an overdose. While their lives seem worlds apart, they share common struggles: mental health, uncertain identities, and a longing for redemption. Interwoven with themes of anxiety, dysfunction, and hope, the novel explores whether fate and friendship can steer us toward a better future. Some critics note the pacing occasionally stalls, but many find its warmth, intimate characterisation, and emotional depth—hallmarks of Bridges’s voice—as major strengths. Reviews “I loved it. Warm, decent, and full of heart, it explores male friendship and mental health in a deeply relatable way.” — The Scotsman “Darkly funny with brilliantly written male friendships… reminded me of Mayflies in the best way.” — AnnaBookBel “Edgy, dark, funny and perceptive – a compelling debut.” — The Herald “Immensely readable.” — Jo Brand “Vulnerable and raw. I loved it.” — Tom Allen “Brilliant – funny, moving and full of soul.” — Harriet Tyce “Thinly sketched characters and an uneven plot let it down, but the author’s comic talent still flickers through.” — The Irish Times
Book Title: The Black Dog Book Genre: Contemporary Fiction, Psychological Fiction ISBN: 9781472289070 Pages: 400 Publishing Date: 18 August 2022 Publisher: Wildfire
