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A Cloud Can Weigh A Million Pounds
A feeling of lethargy during a cup semi final soon develops into something more sinister for Claston Celts star, Paddy McAlpin. A random drug test post match soon reveals more than he could ever have expected and sets him on a dangerous journey to discover the truth.
In this thrilling and humorous tale we follow the arrogant and talented Paddy McAlpin as he searches for the truth behind the attempt on his life, taking him back to his ignored, if not forgotten roots in Claston's slums, before setting him on a whirlwind voyage of espionage and peril. Using his strength of body and mind to seize what he needs, he draws closer to the truth, putting himself into greater danger each step of the way.
Throughout his journey, he is forced to take an introspective look and comes to the realisation that there is more to his life than himself.
In this thrilling and humorous tale we follow the arrogant and talented Paddy McAlpin as he searches for the truth behind the attempt on his life, taking him back to his ignored, if not forgotten roots in Claston's slums, before setting him on a whirlwind voyage of espionage and peril. Using his strength of body and mind to seize what he needs, he draws closer to the truth, putting himself into greater danger each step of the way.
Throughout his journey, he is forced to take an introspective look and comes to the realisation that there is more to his life than himself.
186 pages, Paperback
Published January 30, 2021
About the author
A.D. Stephenson
7 books7 followersAnthony David Stephenson is the creator of Paddy McAlpin and author of A Cloud Can Weigh A Million Pounds. His debut novel was born during the 2020 COVID lockdown and is the first glimpse of footballer turned detective and warrior for social justice, Paddy McAlpin.
A keen football fan himself, Stephenson has a soft spot for Hamilton Academical, but deep down just wants to see real football at all levels (in some ways the lower the better).
He also enjoys good suits and live music.
Before penning novels, Stephenson worked as a teacher in the UK and Germany.
Stephenson currently lives in Lanarkshire with his wife.
A keen football fan himself, Stephenson has a soft spot for Hamilton Academical, but deep down just wants to see real football at all levels (in some ways the lower the better).
He also enjoys good suits and live music.
Before penning novels, Stephenson worked as a teacher in the UK and Germany.
Stephenson currently lives in Lanarkshire with his wife.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
February 13, 2021
A story that makes you think...Of life, human emotions,of What Really matters...Paddy plays football, a game he loves and all the pageantry the life of a champion player can have...But in this wonderful story Paddy discovers life off the field...With all the sadness, mistrust, and darkness some people allow to take over...Someone tries to kill him, giving him a drug on his match day...Rendering him unable to preform in his usual manner...Later the same drug is on a nail poking through his boot, that he gives an old girlfriend to wear in a little play time...And she drops dead...Paddy quickly opens his eyes to everyone around him...Determined to solve this mystery...And along the way he finds himself...A different person than the one who started this narrative...
This is more than a great mystery, as we see Paddy realizing the life around him...And the people who darken the doorsteps of so many who can Not protect themselves..A story in which the characters come alive...And we can see so much of our own lives in everything that plays out...
I received a book from the author, and I give You my honest thoughts and feelings in this review.
This is more than a great mystery, as we see Paddy realizing the life around him...And the people who darken the doorsteps of so many who can Not protect themselves..A story in which the characters come alive...And we can see so much of our own lives in everything that plays out...
I received a book from the author, and I give You my honest thoughts and feelings in this review.
December 15, 2023
I received this book directly from the author which has no way changed my opinion or review.
Being a massive football fan, I knew I'd get on well with this but was surprised by how much. The MC is a world famous footballer who can only be currently described and bloody unlucky. Someone's out to harm him and it takes him across the continent to get the answers he needs. I was transported brilliantly, from stadium, to a multitude of countries, effortlessly and with charm. The descriptions of what was happening on the football pitch appeared like they were from a seasoned commentator. I was kept guessing as to how it would play out, who was involved and whether, quite frankly, the MC would end up dead. A really good book not just for football fans, but for anyone who like a twisty turny who-done-it crime thriller.
Being a massive football fan, I knew I'd get on well with this but was surprised by how much. The MC is a world famous footballer who can only be currently described and bloody unlucky. Someone's out to harm him and it takes him across the continent to get the answers he needs. I was transported brilliantly, from stadium, to a multitude of countries, effortlessly and with charm. The descriptions of what was happening on the football pitch appeared like they were from a seasoned commentator. I was kept guessing as to how it would play out, who was involved and whether, quite frankly, the MC would end up dead. A really good book not just for football fans, but for anyone who like a twisty turny who-done-it crime thriller.
February 28, 2021
Roy of the Rovers Meets Taggart on a Road Trip to Spain with Irvine Welsh.
Not the kind of book I would normally be drawn to but AD manages to string a number of compelling travelogue vignettes together around a murder mystery .
My loan criticism is that the author was a wee bit too much in love with his hero but that aside I would recommend it to football fans, who enjoy Scottish Noir.
Not the kind of book I would normally be drawn to but AD manages to string a number of compelling travelogue vignettes together around a murder mystery .
My loan criticism is that the author was a wee bit too much in love with his hero but that aside I would recommend it to football fans, who enjoy Scottish Noir.
February 13, 2021
A fantastic and gripping debut novel from A.D. Stephenson! The author pens a beautiful and heartfelt portrait of protagonist Paddy McAlpin. After an attempt on his life Paddy, must search for the truth, but is he prepared for what he is about to discover?
The author’s use of the local Scots dialect is a stroke of genius and transports you from your lockdown locale to the gritty streets of Claston. The inspired use of such a literary device puts it alongside works like Anthony Burgess’s ‘A Clockwork Orange’.
Even if you are not a fan of football, the gripping tale will keep you hooked. It is a story packed with suspense, pathos and not forgetting your defensive duties as a full back.
I eagerly await the sequel!
The author’s use of the local Scots dialect is a stroke of genius and transports you from your lockdown locale to the gritty streets of Claston. The inspired use of such a literary device puts it alongside works like Anthony Burgess’s ‘A Clockwork Orange’.
Even if you are not a fan of football, the gripping tale will keep you hooked. It is a story packed with suspense, pathos and not forgetting your defensive duties as a full back.
I eagerly await the sequel!
February 6, 2021
After surviving an attempt on his life and his career, our footballer hero Paddy McAlpin sets off to find out who tried to kill him. Will he succeed and make it back in time to win the cup final or will dark forces take him out before he uncovers the truth.
A gripping tale of adventure and detective work spread across Scotland and the rest of Europe. Full of lively characters and written with wit and unexpected sophistication, this revitalising take on the football-thriller genre is a masterpiece of modern writing. I literally couldn't put it down and went through it in a single sitting.
While it's cliched these days to berate authors to hurry up and finished new books, I hope A.D. Stephenson cracks out the next one as I already can't wait to read further adventures of the great Scottish hero Paddy!
A gripping tale of adventure and detective work spread across Scotland and the rest of Europe. Full of lively characters and written with wit and unexpected sophistication, this revitalising take on the football-thriller genre is a masterpiece of modern writing. I literally couldn't put it down and went through it in a single sitting.
While it's cliched these days to berate authors to hurry up and finished new books, I hope A.D. Stephenson cracks out the next one as I already can't wait to read further adventures of the great Scottish hero Paddy!
February 7, 2021
A witty, well-written crime adventure tangled with passionate football scenes. This is a read for anyone who enjoys wit from a well-rounded protagonist embarking on an unlikely spree to solve a mystery. It made me giggle and gasp; I could not put it down.
January 25, 2021
I was sent a pre-release Kindle copy of this book and when I looked at the blurb I wasn't sure what to expect. I'm so glad that I read it though: it's hilarious, but darkly so, and the main character development is excellent. The pace ticks along nicely (I finished the book in one day and didn't put it down at all) and the action is intertwined with some really creative description.
The writer has created backstories for all of the characters and you really want to read more about the minor ones: Shaun and Sergeant Galloway were particularly interesting. All in all, it's a wonderful read, particularly if you need your mood lifted. I very much look forward to reading the next novel that Stephenson writes!
The writer has created backstories for all of the characters and you really want to read more about the minor ones: Shaun and Sergeant Galloway were particularly interesting. All in all, it's a wonderful read, particularly if you need your mood lifted. I very much look forward to reading the next novel that Stephenson writes!
February 13, 2021
I really loved this book! What starts off as a football story soon turns into a thrilling detective romp. But midway through I had forgotten all about the football and was totally invested in the protagonist, Paddy, as he attempts to solve the mystery of the attempt on his life.
The narrative is quick paced but doesn't skimp on beautiful (and at times bleak) descriptions of the fictional city of Claston, perhaps my favourite new fictional location. Chapters delving into the past only add to the story, rather than detract from it as in other books. At times I found myself wanting to read more about Paddy's past rather than his current plight, although that soon changed once I continued reading and immersed myself back into his quest for the truth.
Whilst the story follows Paddy throughout, the other bit part characters are well developed and have great potential for the next book, which is seemingly coming soon according to the author website (www.adstephenson.com). I hope I don't have to wait too long for the next installment!
Highly recommended!
The narrative is quick paced but doesn't skimp on beautiful (and at times bleak) descriptions of the fictional city of Claston, perhaps my favourite new fictional location. Chapters delving into the past only add to the story, rather than detract from it as in other books. At times I found myself wanting to read more about Paddy's past rather than his current plight, although that soon changed once I continued reading and immersed myself back into his quest for the truth.
Whilst the story follows Paddy throughout, the other bit part characters are well developed and have great potential for the next book, which is seemingly coming soon according to the author website (www.adstephenson.com). I hope I don't have to wait too long for the next installment!
Highly recommended!
March 30, 2021
For full disclosure, I should start by admitting that I was sent a free copy of “A Cloud Can Weigh A Million Pounds” by the author, A. D. Stephenson in exchange for a fair review. He compared the novel to another book I had read and rated highly and being a football fan, the idea behind the novel appealed to me, so I accepted his offer.
The novel is the story of Paddy McAlpin, who after several wildly successful seasons playing for Hamburg in Germany, has returned to his first love, Claston Celts, and is taking the field in the Scottish Cup Semi Final, with the reward being a clash against their local rivals, Claston Wanderers, in the final. However, during the match, he has an uncharacteristically poor game and feels rough, the reasons for which become clear when he is selected for a random drug test at full time and discovers he has been drugged.
Wandering back to his old neighbourhood to clear his head, he bumps into a friend and has a kickabout. Unfortunately, the boots he lends her have also been drugged, but she is not so lucky and dies in Paddy’s arms. Detective Inspector Galloway, a man with a greater link to Paddy than even he realises, soon discovers Paddy is not culpable in the death, but he is unable to act on his suspicions, as he needs to prove he has sufficient evidence to gain a warrant to investigate further. He inserts Paddy into this Catch-22 situation, figuring that Paddy’s charm and intelligence may suffice in getting further information.
The story largely follows Paddy’s adventures as he seeks to find out who was behind his drugging, interspersed with memories of his past. Both the violence of his upbringing and the physical training required for his occupation feature and the education he was blessed with as a talented young footballer comes into play at times as well. Paddy is a well-written hero, with Stephenson not making him simply a one-dimensional character and whilst his footballing prowess features regularly, he is presented as being far more than this. Stephenson also doesn’t paint him as being perfect, as whilst he is largely a decent person, he’s not been shy of partaking in some of the less salubrious activities that his elevated position has given him and he is a flawed hero of the type rarely seen in literature.
The story was incredibly well-paced, too, with Paddy’s adventures taking him from Scotland to England and Spain and the intrigue and violence following him everywhere he goes. Although the occasional asides, usually when Paddy’s back story comes into play, do slow things down occasionally, mostly the story advances with the speed of Paddy’s Jaguar heading for London. When you consider that very few footballers sprint full out for a 90-minute match, it’s hardly surprising that a story that frequently proceeds at a sprint should need to pause for breath occasionally.
For all the pacing, the writing can take a little getting used to, as the Scottish characters are all written in dialect as they speak, which can take some adjusting to. Fortunately, I’ve read enough Irvine Welsh for this not to take too long in my case and I did like the way Paddy’s accent adjusted depending on who he was speaking to, recalling a time when I was in New York and found myself becoming more English as I went along. Paddy is clearly a proud Scot, despite all his years playing football in Germany and he doesn’t forget that for a moment, even as his accent occasionally leaves it behind when he feels it would be of benefit and the moments where his Scots brogue clashes with the Basque country Spanish spoken in Bilbao are occasionally amusing. There is also the odd occasion where Paddy’s education comes through and the language usage isn’t as simple in some places as it is in others and this mixture can also take a moment of adjustment, but it doesn’t interrupt the flow of the story in any important way when this happens.
One thing that does let the novel down slightly are some of the asides the narrative goes on and how it occasionally loses grip with reality. Some of the football scenes, although plausible, do have something of a “Roy of the Rovers” feel, particularly in the opening match where Paddy has been drugged. The way Paddy ends up as part of the investigation feels more like it should be in a film than in life and the first event that happens to him in Spain is incredibly unlikely and the back story of his opponent there seemed a touch unnecessary. However, once you’ve come to terms with the story taking a long and unlikely path, it does still prove to be enjoyable, like taking a diversion on a road trip and discovering a beautiful vista. It may not be where you expected things to lead you, but it’s not an unwelcome event when you get there.
What becomes clear as you go on is that Stephenson is not just a football fan, but he’s a very decent writer, too. Considering this is his debut novel, he has written a detailed main character, involved in a nicely layered mystery. It may take the odd unexpected diversion and you do have to suspend disbelief on occasion, but the whole thing is wonderfully crafted. Indeed, one of the parts I most enjoyed was reaching the ending and discovering there are likely to be further Paddy McAlpin novels, as this helped balance out the sense of loss you feel when you reach the end of a great story, particularly when it ends with the mixture of grief and kindness that this one does and I can’t wait to read the next novel Stephenson comes up with, especially if it’s going to be this good.
The novel is the story of Paddy McAlpin, who after several wildly successful seasons playing for Hamburg in Germany, has returned to his first love, Claston Celts, and is taking the field in the Scottish Cup Semi Final, with the reward being a clash against their local rivals, Claston Wanderers, in the final. However, during the match, he has an uncharacteristically poor game and feels rough, the reasons for which become clear when he is selected for a random drug test at full time and discovers he has been drugged.
Wandering back to his old neighbourhood to clear his head, he bumps into a friend and has a kickabout. Unfortunately, the boots he lends her have also been drugged, but she is not so lucky and dies in Paddy’s arms. Detective Inspector Galloway, a man with a greater link to Paddy than even he realises, soon discovers Paddy is not culpable in the death, but he is unable to act on his suspicions, as he needs to prove he has sufficient evidence to gain a warrant to investigate further. He inserts Paddy into this Catch-22 situation, figuring that Paddy’s charm and intelligence may suffice in getting further information.
The story largely follows Paddy’s adventures as he seeks to find out who was behind his drugging, interspersed with memories of his past. Both the violence of his upbringing and the physical training required for his occupation feature and the education he was blessed with as a talented young footballer comes into play at times as well. Paddy is a well-written hero, with Stephenson not making him simply a one-dimensional character and whilst his footballing prowess features regularly, he is presented as being far more than this. Stephenson also doesn’t paint him as being perfect, as whilst he is largely a decent person, he’s not been shy of partaking in some of the less salubrious activities that his elevated position has given him and he is a flawed hero of the type rarely seen in literature.
The story was incredibly well-paced, too, with Paddy’s adventures taking him from Scotland to England and Spain and the intrigue and violence following him everywhere he goes. Although the occasional asides, usually when Paddy’s back story comes into play, do slow things down occasionally, mostly the story advances with the speed of Paddy’s Jaguar heading for London. When you consider that very few footballers sprint full out for a 90-minute match, it’s hardly surprising that a story that frequently proceeds at a sprint should need to pause for breath occasionally.
For all the pacing, the writing can take a little getting used to, as the Scottish characters are all written in dialect as they speak, which can take some adjusting to. Fortunately, I’ve read enough Irvine Welsh for this not to take too long in my case and I did like the way Paddy’s accent adjusted depending on who he was speaking to, recalling a time when I was in New York and found myself becoming more English as I went along. Paddy is clearly a proud Scot, despite all his years playing football in Germany and he doesn’t forget that for a moment, even as his accent occasionally leaves it behind when he feels it would be of benefit and the moments where his Scots brogue clashes with the Basque country Spanish spoken in Bilbao are occasionally amusing. There is also the odd occasion where Paddy’s education comes through and the language usage isn’t as simple in some places as it is in others and this mixture can also take a moment of adjustment, but it doesn’t interrupt the flow of the story in any important way when this happens.
One thing that does let the novel down slightly are some of the asides the narrative goes on and how it occasionally loses grip with reality. Some of the football scenes, although plausible, do have something of a “Roy of the Rovers” feel, particularly in the opening match where Paddy has been drugged. The way Paddy ends up as part of the investigation feels more like it should be in a film than in life and the first event that happens to him in Spain is incredibly unlikely and the back story of his opponent there seemed a touch unnecessary. However, once you’ve come to terms with the story taking a long and unlikely path, it does still prove to be enjoyable, like taking a diversion on a road trip and discovering a beautiful vista. It may not be where you expected things to lead you, but it’s not an unwelcome event when you get there.
What becomes clear as you go on is that Stephenson is not just a football fan, but he’s a very decent writer, too. Considering this is his debut novel, he has written a detailed main character, involved in a nicely layered mystery. It may take the odd unexpected diversion and you do have to suspend disbelief on occasion, but the whole thing is wonderfully crafted. Indeed, one of the parts I most enjoyed was reaching the ending and discovering there are likely to be further Paddy McAlpin novels, as this helped balance out the sense of loss you feel when you reach the end of a great story, particularly when it ends with the mixture of grief and kindness that this one does and I can’t wait to read the next novel Stephenson comes up with, especially if it’s going to be this good.
April 26, 2021
3/5 stars!
“Just three years ago, someone told me that my sport was broken, twisted and perverted by money. Perhaps that was true; true for the oligarchs and the oil sheikhs and the shady businessman death exploit venerated foul purposes. It has been said by many that those less salubrious days were when football experienced its death knell, that those were the days when football died. It's nae true, though, for me. It's nae true for the players, nae true for the fans, nor for those people that love the game. For all of us who care so deeply for our sport, football is about competition, togetherness, unity and community.”
This book contains: european football, Oktoberfest, drug tests, a strong Scottish accent, goals, haggis, toxins, stadiums and arm wrestling.
This is not the kind of book I would usually pick up for myself, but I was surprised with the story after reading it. I had no idea what the book was about because the blurb in the back cover doesn’t give out a lot of information, as well as the title - which made me even more curious to know what the story was even about.
I was surprised to discover this book was actually a mystery (the who-did-it kind of mystery) with a mixture of sport (european football to be exact). I thought it was an unusual combination and I had never read anything like it before, but I thought it was creative and overall it worked out well.
The mystery was well made, intriguing and overall surprising - I admit I wasn't expecting that plot twist near the end. I just don't know what to think about a football star investigating his own homicide attempt and traveling around Europe to get answers. I think I found that a bit odd because it wasn't very realistic, but again, this is a work of fiction so take my opinion with a grain of salt!
I really liked Paddy as the main character. I really liked his personality, accent and the unfortunate (but sometimes funny) situations he put himself to. He feels like a real person with real flaws, real characteristics and a true love for football.
I have to say I really liked the writing. It’s very atmospheric and easy to keep up with! The pacing is good, but there are a few chapters where the story slows down to give some backstory and additional information. The football scenes were very detailed and well explained, and I’m sure readers who love football would love the game scenes! One thing I really liked was how Paddy's Scottish accent was written in his dialogue. I thought that was a nice touch and it gave him more character, even though I had some difficulty trying to understand what he was saying sometimes. I also appreciate that we get some background information on other characters. Does that mean they will be featured again in the second book in this series?
It has sports, action and a good dose of humor. I think this would be an interesting book for fans of European football and mysteries in general.
***A big thank you to the author for the free copy in exchange for an honest review***
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“Just three years ago, someone told me that my sport was broken, twisted and perverted by money. Perhaps that was true; true for the oligarchs and the oil sheikhs and the shady businessman death exploit venerated foul purposes. It has been said by many that those less salubrious days were when football experienced its death knell, that those were the days when football died. It's nae true, though, for me. It's nae true for the players, nae true for the fans, nor for those people that love the game. For all of us who care so deeply for our sport, football is about competition, togetherness, unity and community.”
This book contains: european football, Oktoberfest, drug tests, a strong Scottish accent, goals, haggis, toxins, stadiums and arm wrestling.
This is not the kind of book I would usually pick up for myself, but I was surprised with the story after reading it. I had no idea what the book was about because the blurb in the back cover doesn’t give out a lot of information, as well as the title - which made me even more curious to know what the story was even about.
I was surprised to discover this book was actually a mystery (the who-did-it kind of mystery) with a mixture of sport (european football to be exact). I thought it was an unusual combination and I had never read anything like it before, but I thought it was creative and overall it worked out well.
The mystery was well made, intriguing and overall surprising - I admit I wasn't expecting that plot twist near the end. I just don't know what to think about a football star investigating his own homicide attempt and traveling around Europe to get answers. I think I found that a bit odd because it wasn't very realistic, but again, this is a work of fiction so take my opinion with a grain of salt!
I really liked Paddy as the main character. I really liked his personality, accent and the unfortunate (but sometimes funny) situations he put himself to. He feels like a real person with real flaws, real characteristics and a true love for football.
I have to say I really liked the writing. It’s very atmospheric and easy to keep up with! The pacing is good, but there are a few chapters where the story slows down to give some backstory and additional information. The football scenes were very detailed and well explained, and I’m sure readers who love football would love the game scenes! One thing I really liked was how Paddy's Scottish accent was written in his dialogue. I thought that was a nice touch and it gave him more character, even though I had some difficulty trying to understand what he was saying sometimes. I also appreciate that we get some background information on other characters. Does that mean they will be featured again in the second book in this series?
It has sports, action and a good dose of humor. I think this would be an interesting book for fans of European football and mysteries in general.
***A big thank you to the author for the free copy in exchange for an honest review***
Blog | Bookstagram
February 20, 2021
Cleverly Drafted, Beautifully Written
AD contacted me several days ago via Goodreads to do a read of his new book, A Cloud Can Weigh A Million Pounds. If I’d do it, he’d send me a hard copy. Well, I agreed to the read/review part and asked he give away the hard copy to someone there in Dumbarton, Scotland or wherever he found them. He agreed. So, I’m not getting anything for my review.
Let me get past this...I am not a Footballer. Soccer in the States along with the US Football teams, etc., hold no interest for me. Ever. Rather, the hard hit from a Salmon or a Bass just makes my day! So, I approached this book totally unprepared for the rollercoaster ride AD had opted to take his readers on. And, what a delightful ride!
The story plot is quite simple: Take a world famous Footballer, named Paddy McAlpin, with an ego bigger than all of Scotland, and do weird stuff to him. Ok, he can have a Jag XJ as well. Poor baby! Then, let the great one that is Paddy investigate why all this stuff is happening to him with the easy help of the local Constable, a guy named Galloway. But, keep Galloway in and out of the picture discreetly.
And, you’re off and running! No, you are never going to get bored by Paddy’s behavior. You might even get to learn a lot about Football. I did.
Take all of the plot, Paddy, the characters, and just what do you have? I found a literary work of art. Stephenson’s prose is magical. Toss in some Scottish Brogue (Stephenson IS Scottish!), and I needed some Fish ‘n Chips from my favorite shop in Dunoon, Scotland to keep my energy up as the wording, phrases, and their sentences becoming paragraphs to chapters danced a very delightful Highland Fling before my eyes.
Great read. Fun. I’m glad I got the opportunity to read it!
AD contacted me several days ago via Goodreads to do a read of his new book, A Cloud Can Weigh A Million Pounds. If I’d do it, he’d send me a hard copy. Well, I agreed to the read/review part and asked he give away the hard copy to someone there in Dumbarton, Scotland or wherever he found them. He agreed. So, I’m not getting anything for my review.
Let me get past this...I am not a Footballer. Soccer in the States along with the US Football teams, etc., hold no interest for me. Ever. Rather, the hard hit from a Salmon or a Bass just makes my day! So, I approached this book totally unprepared for the rollercoaster ride AD had opted to take his readers on. And, what a delightful ride!
The story plot is quite simple: Take a world famous Footballer, named Paddy McAlpin, with an ego bigger than all of Scotland, and do weird stuff to him. Ok, he can have a Jag XJ as well. Poor baby! Then, let the great one that is Paddy investigate why all this stuff is happening to him with the easy help of the local Constable, a guy named Galloway. But, keep Galloway in and out of the picture discreetly.
And, you’re off and running! No, you are never going to get bored by Paddy’s behavior. You might even get to learn a lot about Football. I did.
Take all of the plot, Paddy, the characters, and just what do you have? I found a literary work of art. Stephenson’s prose is magical. Toss in some Scottish Brogue (Stephenson IS Scottish!), and I needed some Fish ‘n Chips from my favorite shop in Dunoon, Scotland to keep my energy up as the wording, phrases, and their sentences becoming paragraphs to chapters danced a very delightful Highland Fling before my eyes.
Great read. Fun. I’m glad I got the opportunity to read it!
February 26, 2021
This was interesting, and an impressive debut by an author clearly passionate about his football and his characters - an entertaining read, and if you like exciting 'seat of your pants' action, you'll enjoy this gripping and ambitious first novel by A.D. Stephenson. The tale follows Paddy McAlpin, a star footballer and proper character of a man, and his getting caught up in a plot with numerous twists - all after it turns out he was a victim of a drugging early in the story he sets off to find out about the dark powers behind this.
It wasn't completely my kind of thing, however, as admirable as it was - a personal matter of taste in preferring a different type of Scots crime. However, the talented author is clearly on to a winner here, judging by the other reviews received - and I have no doubt many people will really enjoy this unique and unpredictable novel.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review - and was grateful for this - and the nice note the author included with the copy he sent. This however did not affect the honesty of my review.
It wasn't completely my kind of thing, however, as admirable as it was - a personal matter of taste in preferring a different type of Scots crime. However, the talented author is clearly on to a winner here, judging by the other reviews received - and I have no doubt many people will really enjoy this unique and unpredictable novel.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review - and was grateful for this - and the nice note the author included with the copy he sent. This however did not affect the honesty of my review.
February 13, 2021
I love a good mystery or spy story and am a huge Baldacci and James Patterson fan. While this author did not quite meet the mark of those seasoned authors, he most definitely is off to the right start. I was intrigued by Paddy, the main character, who is also a pro football player, (European football). He is the country's favorite and is well known for bringing the team to victory. However, as the book opens the match is underway and Paddy is having a very off day. As the story continues the "off day" gets worse, and Paddy finds himself helping the police chase down one suspicious lead after another. The author is able to catch the humor in some of the situations and is able to also give a sense of foreboding and danger as the story unfolds. If you want a story with an interesting twist to it and written in a light hearted way, this is for you.
February 8, 2021
I was fantastically surprised by this book, as going in I was not sure what to expect when *cough cough* judging the book by it's cover (which I know I am not supposed to do!). But from the first few lines, I was almost entranced. The narrative has a poetic and almost lyrical quality to it, and drew me in immediately like I'd been caught in a spell. Now I must confess, I don't know much about sports, and as an American, it took a second to adjust to the age old soccer/football verbiage swap, but the story was so enthralling that those bits had little impact on my overall enjoyment of the book. Overall, the writing is a masterpiece. With the descriptive power of Tolkien and the eloquent and expert use of simile and metaphor, the author crafts an incredibly engaging universe for the reader to follow. I was honestly awestruck. Within the first few pages, I felt as though I was on the field with the main character. The characters themselves are very well-written, and the complexities of Paddy, the main character, come to light with every page as the reader follows him on his journey for the truth through intricate backstory and heart-racing espionage, detective work, and social justice. Both thrilling and action-packed, I highly recommend reading this amazing book!
December 24, 2021
I received a free copy from the author with a request to post a review. The author got in touch after seeing I had reviewed The Natural by Ross Raison - which are only similar in having football as a backdrop.
I mention this to explain my review of two stars - as this book isn’t my thing and I’ve only read it because I was given a free copy.
I am not a fan of humour in fiction, and this is clearly meant to be humorous and will undoubtedly please readers who love tall tales laced with irony.
The plot is easy enough to follow and is surreal and dreamlike in it’s imagination. Credit to anyone who can create such a bizarre series of events. Realistic it certainly is not - escapist it certainly is.
The main character is written as a cross between Roy of the Rovers and a comic book hero. He has strength, and determination, that can defeat any obstacle put in front of him.
The later scenes are more my thing - as some social realism creeps into the ending with some fine speechifying about cleansing an area of malign influences to create a more socially just community. From this final section it’s clear that the author has strong social principles. This reader would have preferred a more gritty book. The problem with most of the book being in comic book style is that this rests on outdated cliches - most notably around masculinity - which overshadow the promotion of social justice.
I mention this to explain my review of two stars - as this book isn’t my thing and I’ve only read it because I was given a free copy.
I am not a fan of humour in fiction, and this is clearly meant to be humorous and will undoubtedly please readers who love tall tales laced with irony.
The plot is easy enough to follow and is surreal and dreamlike in it’s imagination. Credit to anyone who can create such a bizarre series of events. Realistic it certainly is not - escapist it certainly is.
The main character is written as a cross between Roy of the Rovers and a comic book hero. He has strength, and determination, that can defeat any obstacle put in front of him.
The later scenes are more my thing - as some social realism creeps into the ending with some fine speechifying about cleansing an area of malign influences to create a more socially just community. From this final section it’s clear that the author has strong social principles. This reader would have preferred a more gritty book. The problem with most of the book being in comic book style is that this rests on outdated cliches - most notably around masculinity - which overshadow the promotion of social justice.
February 25, 2021
Paddy McAlpin is a footballer.
Paddy McAlpin is a hero to half of Claston and a thorn in the side to the rest.
Someone wants Paddy dead.
These are the facts and if that were all there were to this debut novel from A.D. Stephenson, you could be forgiven for slotting in into the pigeon hole hitherto occupied by Steve Bruce's forays into sport-crime fiction - don't make that mistake, this book is so much more.
The pacing is exquisite, the writing is clear and accessible and the characters complex and believable. It's the first book I've read in a long time where I feel like I know the protagonist and you can't help but root for him in this tale of daring, high-stakes sporting events and social justice.
This is a book for anybody who has ever wondered what it would be like if they found themselves at the centre of a web of intrigue and you won't regret losing yourself in Paddy's world.
Paddy McAlpin is a hero to half of Claston and a thorn in the side to the rest.
Someone wants Paddy dead.
These are the facts and if that were all there were to this debut novel from A.D. Stephenson, you could be forgiven for slotting in into the pigeon hole hitherto occupied by Steve Bruce's forays into sport-crime fiction - don't make that mistake, this book is so much more.
The pacing is exquisite, the writing is clear and accessible and the characters complex and believable. It's the first book I've read in a long time where I feel like I know the protagonist and you can't help but root for him in this tale of daring, high-stakes sporting events and social justice.
This is a book for anybody who has ever wondered what it would be like if they found themselves at the centre of a web of intrigue and you won't regret losing yourself in Paddy's world.
February 8, 2021
I'm a sports fan and a fan of crime dramas, so when a friend recommended this I thought it was a no-brainer. It far exceeded any expectations I could have had: it's charming, hilarious and touching.
Paddy, the "hero" of the tale is flawed, pained and ignorant, yet he grows on you as you progress through the book.
The chapters work as vignettes, with each intersection adding more colour to Paddy and in my mind to the real main character: Claston city and Ascension House - as gritty a city as I've ever read about.
It says at the back of the book that there's another one on the way...hurry up A.D!
Paddy, the "hero" of the tale is flawed, pained and ignorant, yet he grows on you as you progress through the book.
The chapters work as vignettes, with each intersection adding more colour to Paddy and in my mind to the real main character: Claston city and Ascension House - as gritty a city as I've ever read about.
It says at the back of the book that there's another one on the way...hurry up A.D!
April 16, 2021
Recommended to me as a Kevin Sampson fan, A Cloud Can Weigh a Million Pounds does indeed have a similar feel of characters.
Our hero is Paddy McAlpin - footballer turned amateur detective after an attempt made to drug him ahead of a cup semi-final takes on a sinister twist. The plot takes some fantastical turns as Paddy becomes a seeker of truth and justice but as his manager says “Paddy, yer story is totally unbelievable, but it’s exactly that fact that makes me believe it”!
The final page teases of a follow up adventure which I’m already looking forward to #IStandWithPaddy
Our hero is Paddy McAlpin - footballer turned amateur detective after an attempt made to drug him ahead of a cup semi-final takes on a sinister twist. The plot takes some fantastical turns as Paddy becomes a seeker of truth and justice but as his manager says “Paddy, yer story is totally unbelievable, but it’s exactly that fact that makes me believe it”!
The final page teases of a follow up adventure which I’m already looking forward to #IStandWithPaddy
March 16, 2021
For a début novel this is a real cracker. I'm not a football fan by any measure, but got totally involved with international star Paddy McAlpin. The plot verges on the outrageous at times, but you get swept along by the sheer pace of events and it all comes to a very satisfactory conclusion. My only criticism would be the use of the vernacular which I found a bit clumsy in places - maybe because I'm Scottish! Nevertheless, a real page-turner and I look forward to Paddy's next outing.
February 14, 2021
Enjoyed reading this story even though I had a hard time following the Scottish dialogue. Would’ve liked to have more detail as to weather they were able to punish the owner of the other team and the professor that informed on where Patty was traveling. Thank you A.D. good job hope to read more of your work.
March 7, 2021
A crime thriller paced and plotted in such a frantic manner that works due to its football setting. A good first novel from A. D. Stephenson that sets the series up nicely for further Paddy McAlpin adventures.
June 10, 2021
With all honesty, one of the best novels I've read in the last ten years. Stephenson offers a brilliant and compelling story, and once I picked the book up, I couldn't put it back down. Can't wait for the next book by Stephenson. Definitely worth the read :))
February 12, 2021
If you are a sports fan and a good thriller fan ,this is the book for you ,I understand it's the Authors first book ,looking forward to the next one in the series .
June 10, 2021
Awesome book. Captivating until the end! I recommend this book for anyone who wants a quick but thrilling read.
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