'Aberystwyth Mon Amour' by Malcolm Pryce is a humorous and entertaining spoof of hard-boiled detective stories, set in a parallel universe where Wales is run by a mafia of Druids. The story follows private detective Louie Knight as he investigates the disappearance of a schoolboy in the mean streets of Aberystwyth, encountering strange characters, surreal events, and dark humor along the way. The book is written in a 'noir' style, blending PI investigations, dames, murder, and mayhem with witty and dark humor, creating a unique and engaging narrative that pays homage to the detective genre.

The novel is set in a fictional version of Aberystwyth that is both familiar and fantastical, filled with references to Welsh culture and landmarks. The plot unfolds rapidly, keeping readers engaged with a mix of humor, mystery, and clever storytelling. Pryce's writing style combines elements of Raymond Chandler and Dylan Thomas, creating a rich and fantastical mythology within the familiar setting of Aberystwyth, making the book a clever and enjoyable read for fans of detective fiction and Welsh culture alike.

Characters:

Characters are colorful and eccentric, fitting into the noir framework while often embracing absurdity distinct to the setting.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style mixes humor with noir elements, but can feel uneven and at times reminiscent of other authors, leading to moments of both sharp wit and excessive explanation.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot includes the investigation of a missing person against a backdrop of dark humor and surreal elements, blending classic detective themes with a unique Welsh twist.

Setting:

The setting is a surreal version of Aberystwyth, blending local culture with dark humor and a fantastical reimagining of Welsh history.

Pacing:

The pacing is quick and humorous, though it can sometimes become confusing due to the rapid succession of events and quips.

THE THING I remember most about it was walking the entire length of the Prom that morning and not seeing a Druid. Normally when I made my stroll shortly before 9am I would see a few hanging around at ...

Notes:

The book is set in Aberystwyth, a small Welsh seaside town.

It combines elements of noir detective fiction with dark humor.

The main character is Louie Knight, the town's only private investigator.

The plot involves the mysterious disappearance of a stripper's cousin and a string of schoolboy murders.

The town is depicted as being controlled by a corrupt Druid mafia.

Pryce uses surreal elements, including witchcraft and extreme versions of Welsh national costume, creating a fantastical version of Wales.

The book features a mix of lighthearted comedy and darker themes, such as loss and displacement.

Characters include a beautiful singer, Myfanwy Montez, and various humorous locals.

Pryce's writing style is compared to Philip Marlowe and other classic noir styles, though set in an odd alternative history.

The story satirizes the detective genre, poking fun at various tropes with clever humor.

The book has been likened to works by authors like Jasper Fforde and Robert Rankin, with its quirky and surreal storytelling.

The titles of the subsequent books in the series, such as Last Tango in Aberystwyth, sound intriguing and playful.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings may include themes of violence, murder, and dark humor that some readers might find unsettling.

Has Romance?

There is a medium level of romance, primarily through the character of Myfanwy Montez, who serves as both a catalyst for the plot and a romantic interest.

From The Publisher:

Schoolboys are disappearing all over Aberystwyth and nobody knows why. Louie Knight, the town's private investigator, soon realises that it is going to take more than a double ripple from Sospan, the philosopher cum ice-cream seller, to help find out what is happening to these boys and whether or not Lovespoon, the Welsh teacher, Grand Wizard of the Druids and controller of the town, is more than just a sinister bully.

And just who was Gwenno Guevara?

Ratings (1)

Did Not Like (1)

Reader Stats (1):

Did Not Finish (1)

What can you read after
Aberystwyth Mon Amour?

See the list (17 books)

Meet New Books is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a way for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to products and services on amazon.com and its subsidiaries.
When you click the Amazon link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commision, at no cost to you.

Activity

Recommendations

My Stuff

Account

More

Aberystwyth Mon Amour

Malcolm Pryce

Book 1 in the series:Aberystwyth Noir