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Snack Van
How far would you go to protect your home? What would you do to get the partner you desire? Get ahead at your job? Get rich and stay high?
From an idle village in semi-rural Essex, to the corridors of banking in central London, three sets of ordinary but different people become linked through a single act of desperation. Snack Van is a story of vengeance. It explores a depth of human emotion. It reminds us we’d do anything to keep what we have and grab what we can. Ordinary people can be dangerous.
From an idle village in semi-rural Essex, to the corridors of banking in central London, three sets of ordinary but different people become linked through a single act of desperation. Snack Van is a story of vengeance. It explores a depth of human emotion. It reminds us we’d do anything to keep what we have and grab what we can. Ordinary people can be dangerous.
275 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 25, 2015
7 people are currently reading
38 people want to read
About the author
Jay Saph
2 books24 followersOver the past years, life has given me enough to write fiction novels. "Snack van" was my first. That work reflected my underlying fascination of how individuals, who appear normal on the surface, will resort to anything to achieve their goals. Lust, drugs, money, revenge and crime are good writing topics.
My second novel, "The Inhibited" is about a dystopian future after a failed UK government policy to legalize all drugs. It explores themes of genetics, segregation, emotion and what really makes us human - is it ourselves or our environment, or both?
I'm on Twitter @jaysaph @snackvannovel and @theinhibited
You can contact me at: jaysaph@hotmail.com
My second novel, "The Inhibited" is about a dystopian future after a failed UK government policy to legalize all drugs. It explores themes of genetics, segregation, emotion and what really makes us human - is it ourselves or our environment, or both?
I'm on Twitter @jaysaph @snackvannovel and @theinhibited
You can contact me at: jaysaph@hotmail.com
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
April 8, 2017
I am quite annoyed that the rating system does not allow .5 increments because this story deserves 4.5 stars, at least from my point of view. Saph sets the stage with several interesting and memorable characters. The author provided several different but plausible scenarios in this novel. It's probably one of the many reasons I enjoyed this book so much. What do you do when the woman you desire is dating your friend? The more appropriate question is, What are you willing to do? What do you do when ill-mannered neighbors disturb the tranquility of your environment? The narrative explores the mundane situations of daily life, and the edgy side of drug usage. We are allowed a glimpse into the world of drug dealers, and jealousy among friends, although subtle.
I’ll be honest, when I started the book it didn’t grab me, not initially. However, as the story progresses, it transformed into something amazing. This is the type of story that provides a little of everything. What kept me turning pages, was the situation of Mark and his annoying neighbor. I think we’ve all faced similar situations but we were probably afraid to act. The book covers a theme that has a lot of relevance in the society that we live in. The story is written in third person but the characters are complex and well-drawn.
The book is well-written, properly paced, with unexpected twists and turns along the way. I truly enjoyed the story, and I highly recommend it. An easy 4.5 stars.
I’ll be honest, when I started the book it didn’t grab me, not initially. However, as the story progresses, it transformed into something amazing. This is the type of story that provides a little of everything. What kept me turning pages, was the situation of Mark and his annoying neighbor. I think we’ve all faced similar situations but we were probably afraid to act. The book covers a theme that has a lot of relevance in the society that we live in. The story is written in third person but the characters are complex and well-drawn.
The book is well-written, properly paced, with unexpected twists and turns along the way. I truly enjoyed the story, and I highly recommend it. An easy 4.5 stars.
February 19, 2018
Snack Van is a novel that almost reads like a mix of short stories merged together, but linking to one another. As such, the book is written from a myriad of viewpoints, but mainly focusing on brothers Mark and Theo.
It was immediately evident that the author was skilled in characterisation. The little things, like Jas wanting to dye her greys and Gemma excusing herself by going to toilet just to get out of an awkward situation, went a long way to making the characters feel real. Almost every character felt complex and three-dimensional, sometimes unlikable, but always realistic.
A slow start to the book, creating fully-fleshed out characters but focusing on the mundane. Mark and Theo were the most fully realised, and unfortunately unlikeable. However, as Mark’s story takes a turn into self-harm he becomes more understandable and empathetic. And neither of them were as odious as Stan.
And no matter the viewpoint, from Gemma, to Joe to Stan, the writing was clean and crisp throughout and the variety of character personalities kept the book intriguing. However, quite a few, action-filled events took place in-between the character switches that I’d have liked to read about, the fist fight between Mark and Stan for example, and of course the big ending incident Dex performed, which is only talked about after it’s done.
Spoilers ahead-
I did find it fairly unrealistic that Dex would kill two people he’d never met for money, despite how much he needed it, and would’ve liked to see him struggle with it more. Even more unrealistic was Jas deciding to burn her husband, new girlfriend with unborn child alive. The ending would’ve been more satisfying had she just got revenge- of the non-fatal kind- on Mark.
Overall, The latter half of the novel was five star-worthy, but I just have to knock off a star because it did take me quite a while to get into the story, and the very end took a rather far-fetched turn.
It was immediately evident that the author was skilled in characterisation. The little things, like Jas wanting to dye her greys and Gemma excusing herself by going to toilet just to get out of an awkward situation, went a long way to making the characters feel real. Almost every character felt complex and three-dimensional, sometimes unlikable, but always realistic.
A slow start to the book, creating fully-fleshed out characters but focusing on the mundane. Mark and Theo were the most fully realised, and unfortunately unlikeable. However, as Mark’s story takes a turn into self-harm he becomes more understandable and empathetic. And neither of them were as odious as Stan.
And no matter the viewpoint, from Gemma, to Joe to Stan, the writing was clean and crisp throughout and the variety of character personalities kept the book intriguing. However, quite a few, action-filled events took place in-between the character switches that I’d have liked to read about, the fist fight between Mark and Stan for example, and of course the big ending incident Dex performed, which is only talked about after it’s done.
Spoilers ahead-
I did find it fairly unrealistic that Dex would kill two people he’d never met for money, despite how much he needed it, and would’ve liked to see him struggle with it more. Even more unrealistic was Jas deciding to burn her husband, new girlfriend with unborn child alive. The ending would’ve been more satisfying had she just got revenge- of the non-fatal kind- on Mark.
Overall, The latter half of the novel was five star-worthy, but I just have to knock off a star because it did take me quite a while to get into the story, and the very end took a rather far-fetched turn.
October 14, 2016
This is a tale of modern day life and demonstrates what can happen when people don't conform to societies rules.
Mark and Jas and their two children live on a suburban estate. Mark has suffered from depression and anxiety in the past and now spends his free time planning his Mediterranean garden. What appears to be a peaceful neighbourhood on the surface turns into a battleground when Mark's new neighbours, Stan and Doris Jackson, move in next door and disrupt his life.
Mark is an academic with a Phd from Cambridge and believes in his own superiority. He has a middle class faith in the legal system and the police, always assuming they will take his side. His faith is shattered as he realises that the even local resident's association is ineffective. He is on his own and will have to take matters into his own hands. This is difficult for Mark. He's an obsessive, driven to desperation when others don't comply with his rules.
Interspersed with Mark's story is the portrayal of his younger brother, Theo, who works in London. Through Theo and his friends, the author skilfully introduces the reader into the world of drug dealing and paints a compelling picture illustrating just how easy it is to become dragged into this dark and violent underworld.
The plot is unpredictable and constantly surprising. The writing is very descriptive and imaginative and some scenarios are breathtaking (i.e. the scene when Dex drives around the motorway with a haul of drugs in his car). There are also some very accurate portrayals of modern life; office politics and the stress of office life, far right political organisations, and the dangers of on-line dating. The main theme running throughout shows what can happen when seemingly ordinary people are pushed to their limits. Dealing with topics of jealousy, friendship, loyalty and revenge the author leads the reader to re-examine the ordinary by showing us what might lie behind it.
A totally engrossing read which gripped me from the beginning. Highly recommended.
Mark and Jas and their two children live on a suburban estate. Mark has suffered from depression and anxiety in the past and now spends his free time planning his Mediterranean garden. What appears to be a peaceful neighbourhood on the surface turns into a battleground when Mark's new neighbours, Stan and Doris Jackson, move in next door and disrupt his life.
Mark is an academic with a Phd from Cambridge and believes in his own superiority. He has a middle class faith in the legal system and the police, always assuming they will take his side. His faith is shattered as he realises that the even local resident's association is ineffective. He is on his own and will have to take matters into his own hands. This is difficult for Mark. He's an obsessive, driven to desperation when others don't comply with his rules.
Interspersed with Mark's story is the portrayal of his younger brother, Theo, who works in London. Through Theo and his friends, the author skilfully introduces the reader into the world of drug dealing and paints a compelling picture illustrating just how easy it is to become dragged into this dark and violent underworld.
The plot is unpredictable and constantly surprising. The writing is very descriptive and imaginative and some scenarios are breathtaking (i.e. the scene when Dex drives around the motorway with a haul of drugs in his car). There are also some very accurate portrayals of modern life; office politics and the stress of office life, far right political organisations, and the dangers of on-line dating. The main theme running throughout shows what can happen when seemingly ordinary people are pushed to their limits. Dealing with topics of jealousy, friendship, loyalty and revenge the author leads the reader to re-examine the ordinary by showing us what might lie behind it.
A totally engrossing read which gripped me from the beginning. Highly recommended.
November 6, 2016
Actual rating 4.5 stars
ARC generously provided by the author in exchange for my honest review:
Mark, a middle-aged man who is somewhat unhappy with his life in the way that middle-aged anyone can often get, is thrown for a loop when his new neighbors, Stan and Doris, move in and disrupt the precious bit of control he has left.
Interwoven into the scenario is Mark’s younger brother Theo in London, crushing on his best friend’s girl. The contrasting experiences and the element of drugs, dealing, and addiction is an underlying element that influences the way the plot progresses as well.
Mark has a Ph.D., and he’s a bit on the haughty side, so he’s not always likeable but I’m sure all of us can admit to having had annoying/disruptive neighbors who make us have thoughts we’d be ashamed to admit aloud…or is that just me?
Anywho.
I also really enjoyed the expansion of Mark’s battle with depression, self-harm, and the impact on his marriage then and now. This really put into perspective how Mark came to be where he is, why he is being pushed to his limit, and why it is such a big deal. That being said, I still struggled to feel sorry for him, even if I understood it because he was such a prick to his wife, Jas.
The ending was quite the surprise.
The writing is solid, the descriptions very well-done. Weaving a story together through multiple viewpoints can get confusing sometimes, but not with this book. I was surprised that this was Saph’s debut novel and I’ll definitely check out his other titles.
ARC generously provided by the author in exchange for my honest review:
Mark, a middle-aged man who is somewhat unhappy with his life in the way that middle-aged anyone can often get, is thrown for a loop when his new neighbors, Stan and Doris, move in and disrupt the precious bit of control he has left.
Interwoven into the scenario is Mark’s younger brother Theo in London, crushing on his best friend’s girl. The contrasting experiences and the element of drugs, dealing, and addiction is an underlying element that influences the way the plot progresses as well.
Mark has a Ph.D., and he’s a bit on the haughty side, so he’s not always likeable but I’m sure all of us can admit to having had annoying/disruptive neighbors who make us have thoughts we’d be ashamed to admit aloud…or is that just me?
Anywho.
I also really enjoyed the expansion of Mark’s battle with depression, self-harm, and the impact on his marriage then and now. This really put into perspective how Mark came to be where he is, why he is being pushed to his limit, and why it is such a big deal. That being said, I still struggled to feel sorry for him, even if I understood it because he was such a prick to his wife, Jas.
The ending was quite the surprise.
The writing is solid, the descriptions very well-done. Weaving a story together through multiple viewpoints can get confusing sometimes, but not with this book. I was surprised that this was Saph’s debut novel and I’ll definitely check out his other titles.
April 3, 2017
Having lived on an estate such as Fairleigh I understand Mark Pereides plight. This story takes an average family and shows what happens when everyday life conspires against them. How seemingly normal neighbours can transform your home into your own personal hell and take your life down roads you least expect to travel.
The characterisation of people from all walks of life that appear either directly or in the fringes of Mark’s life are vividly portrayed, and some of the scenes have you on the edge of your seat, because you really aren’t sure of the outcome.
This is an intricate tale that skilfully builds up to a convergence of storylines in a way you least expect, and proves that no one knows what they are truly capable of, until push, comes to shove.
The characterisation of people from all walks of life that appear either directly or in the fringes of Mark’s life are vividly portrayed, and some of the scenes have you on the edge of your seat, because you really aren’t sure of the outcome.
This is an intricate tale that skilfully builds up to a convergence of storylines in a way you least expect, and proves that no one knows what they are truly capable of, until push, comes to shove.
December 28, 2016
I didn’t know what to expect judging by the title but I was pleasantly surprised. Snack Van is an interesting, enthralling read with a well-developed, multilevelled plot and complex, true-to-life characters. The story begins slowly with introduction of the characters and their life but soon its pace picks up and you can feel the tension building up as the neighbour feud escalates. I enjoyed reading the story. The book kept my interest all the way through. You never knew what to expect next. I would recommend it because it has a good story line and well-defined characters.
August 25, 2019
I really enjoyed the book. It connects you with many facets of life and the struggle that comes around with it. Either you lose yourself in the struggle or you evolve through it. Story is very Unpredicatable with lots of twists and turns and author's writing style is very imaginative which hooks you to the book till the end.
August 7, 2019
Interesting read. You cannot choose, your neighbors, unfortunately.
This couple, had new neighbors move in . They had a snack business, and parked the van blocking the driveway.
The couple, think that they are selling more than foodstuffs.
This couple, had new neighbors move in . They had a snack business, and parked the van blocking the driveway.
The couple, think that they are selling more than foodstuffs.
September 2, 2015
I enjoyed this book very much. I have very annoying neighbors too so I can relate. I loved the twists and turns in this book as well. It kept me wanting more. * I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review*
May 20, 2017
White people problems: an in-depth look. All joking aside, Snack Van is an engrossing, complex, and engaging book. Drug dealing interwoven with neighborhood politics, self-harm crossing paths with egoism, a borderline loathsome protagonist who still manages to capture your empathy and compassion. I love a book that gives its characters as much contradiction as possible, and for every time Mark is a jerk to his wife, there's a moment where I begrudgingly acknowledge his humanity and have to give him credit for being who he is and coming where he comes from. Wonderfully written and well worth the read.
November 5, 2018
This was totally different to what I was expecting and refreshing in its presentation. I enjoyed the different perspectives thought it was Mark who I most came to enjoy reading. That in itself was a shock because he wasn't really the type of character you 'like.' What I ended up doing was empathizing so much with him. The mix of everyday and gritty was strangely contrasted in a realistic blend that made this even more gripping. The threads at first seem like unconnected stories and then brilliance brings things together. That ending - I didn't expect that either. I love a book that can surprise me and this one did on many levels.
November 13, 2019
Snack Van is a novel filled with good pacing and lots of variation. I particularly loved the writing; the super short sentences gave you the impression to be inside the characters' minds but was nevertheless creative in its execution. The characters are all fleshed-out, but because they're so selfish and angry and frustrated, it was sometimes hard to keep them apart and even harder to identify with them (although this was necessary to keep the plot going) – and I'm sure that for many others, the characters will feel real; it's just a matter of taste and personality.
March 20, 2017
Was ok.
Found this story to be quite drawn out, not a lot happens until nearer the end, although the ending is a good one. Wasn't quite my thing but that's not to say someone else might not enjoy it!
Found this story to be quite drawn out, not a lot happens until nearer the end, although the ending is a good one. Wasn't quite my thing but that's not to say someone else might not enjoy it!
October 5, 2015
This tale interweaves the inconsiderate actions of a new resident on a modern housing development, which starts a neighbourly feud, with the careless activities of some sloppy drug dealers.
I really enjoyed this book, anyone with neighbours could understand the annoyance over the small inconsiderate actions of others and the chaotic life of the drug users / dealers rang depressingly true. The satirical comments on modern living and the plot twists and turns keep me interested to the very end of this book.
I really enjoyed this book, anyone with neighbours could understand the annoyance over the small inconsiderate actions of others and the chaotic life of the drug users / dealers rang depressingly true. The satirical comments on modern living and the plot twists and turns keep me interested to the very end of this book.
October 16, 2015
I am guessing the author had experienced this before in real life. I am saying that because some of the descriptions are very detail, which is good. Very well written as well. Once you start reading you forget there are words on the page and you are not standing next to the characters and experiencing everything with them; imagery so vivid that you can almost taste and smell what the main character does. The story line moves quickly and the writing style is direct which kept me captivated and wanting to read more.
November 9, 2015
Entertaining tale of modern life in the suburbs and the city. Lots of twists and turns with vivid and recognisable characters. The book explores how the everyday ordinary life of a typical family is turned upside down by the arrival of new neighbours. Personality clashes ensue and events soon spiral out of control. Very readable and enjoyable!
November 11, 2015
I really enjoyed this well written book. There is an intriguing plot with a diverse mix of characters which were intricately described, drawing you in as though they are familiar to you. It has a fascinating overall theme which sees the author delving into human behaviour. A great read!
August 19, 2019
Recommend to readers who enjoy books that provide a snap-shot of contemporary life and modern dilemmas.
The book is concentrated around two brothers, Mark and Theo and their friends and family.
Mark's character and his dispute with his neighbour was for me the strongest element of the book. His journey from irritation and resentment to all-out war with his neighbour and how it damaged his health and his marriage was done very well. The situation was one most people could relate to and I'm sure most readers will have experienced a disagreement that preyed on their mind and kept them awake at night.
Theo's life is disrupted by unrequited love and his friends sinking deeper into the drug world. This part of the book didn't work as well for me personally. While Mark's transition from complaining about the situation to taking action was clearly demonstrated, the actions taken by some of the other characters towards the end came as a shock.
Overall an interesting, easy to read story.
The book is concentrated around two brothers, Mark and Theo and their friends and family.
Mark's character and his dispute with his neighbour was for me the strongest element of the book. His journey from irritation and resentment to all-out war with his neighbour and how it damaged his health and his marriage was done very well. The situation was one most people could relate to and I'm sure most readers will have experienced a disagreement that preyed on their mind and kept them awake at night.
Theo's life is disrupted by unrequited love and his friends sinking deeper into the drug world. This part of the book didn't work as well for me personally. While Mark's transition from complaining about the situation to taking action was clearly demonstrated, the actions taken by some of the other characters towards the end came as a shock.
Overall an interesting, easy to read story.
October 29, 2016
I thought this book was done well. I thought Mark was a well defined character and I came very close to not liking him. But once I realized he suffered from depression and had so much stress in the past, he grew on me. There were many twists and turns in this book. The plot was great, and having neighbors who totally turned his life upside down is something I can relate to. Even thought he was a little bit full of himself, I still wanted things to go well for him. Loved all the descriptive writing and the way the writer went into Marks dark side. This story is so true to life and keeps you wondering what will happen next. I honestly could not put it down. From the beginning to the end it kept me turning the pages. This book shows you what can happen to make an ordinary family and just every day people get pushed to the end of their rope. I would highly recommend this book
August 28, 2019
Snack Van has an intriguing premise, exploring how the lives of three individuals can intersect in surprising and horrifying ways. Investing in the novel was difficult for me; for one, the book is steeped in British slang and culture. Also, much of the opening text revolves around relatively minor dramas of suburban living. I understand they’re meant to be trivial and dull, but this feels like material that could’ve been covered in a few paragraphs, instead of several chapters.
Still, the chapters are short and the book does eventually develop a decent pace. It’s not afraid to go to dark places, and doesn’t offer a pat ending. Fans of crime drama might find it worth a read.
Still, the chapters are short and the book does eventually develop a decent pace. It’s not afraid to go to dark places, and doesn’t offer a pat ending. Fans of crime drama might find it worth a read.
December 24, 2016
This is a well-written engrossing story about ordinary people and as the author says, ordinary people can be dangerous. What does an ordinary person do when pushed to his limits? What would an ordinary person do when society and the legal system lets them down? In Mark's case, he takes the law into his own hands and watching him slip and slide down the rabbit hole of criminal acts is almost too much to witness.
March 25, 2019
Great read
Cocaine, love and murder, the neighbor's snack van and more. Some interesting dialog and intrigue around immigrant families in greater London.
Cocaine, love and murder, the neighbor's snack van and more. Some interesting dialog and intrigue around immigrant families in greater London.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews