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Step Forward, Harry Salt
Something strange is afoot in the Derbyshire hills.
But what does that mean for Harry Salt?
He's a young man with a big secret.
So big, that the Prime Minister wants a piece of him.
Trouble is, it's such a deeply buried secret that Harry doesn't even know about it. But when he starts his new job at the Ministry of People, and the anxious UK prepares for The Change, things get steadily more strange and frightening.
Dreams filled with painful memories and snarling black dogs. Endless ham baguettes. A 900-year-old Starsky & Hutch addict. Murderous lollipop ladies and milkmen that bite.
Yes. Something is definitely up.
It's time to Step Forward, Harry Salt
But what does that mean for Harry Salt?
He's a young man with a big secret.
So big, that the Prime Minister wants a piece of him.
Trouble is, it's such a deeply buried secret that Harry doesn't even know about it. But when he starts his new job at the Ministry of People, and the anxious UK prepares for The Change, things get steadily more strange and frightening.
Dreams filled with painful memories and snarling black dogs. Endless ham baguettes. A 900-year-old Starsky & Hutch addict. Murderous lollipop ladies and milkmen that bite.
Yes. Something is definitely up.
It's time to Step Forward, Harry Salt
- GenresFiction
384 pages, Paperback
Published December 1, 2021
1 person is currently reading
22 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
January 23, 2022
I really enjoyed reading this book so first, 👍👍👍 to Ross for having the drive and determination to both start and finish it and all the stuff in between and after. It is well worth a read and I have already recommended it to a friend who is a fan of Terry Pratchett's. The fantasy / folklore-y parody reminds me of his novels. The absurdist humour and poking fun at bureaucracy, though, feels like a homage to Douglas Adams, as does our seemingly unremarkable hero, and the fact that we're able to look at human behaviour through the eyes of an outsider.
There is also a fair amount of political satire in here. I'm not sure that Ross bothered to disguise his nasty prime minister's likeness to Boris at all, and some well-aimed comments at The Change apply amusingly to Brexit, which I'm pretty sure is not a coincidence. It probably helps that Ross and I lean the same way politically (at least on the issues he's writing about here!) but, even without that, I think readers would struggle to be offended by the political commentary, as it's all done with humour and a light touch and isn't the only focus of the novel. In fact, there is so much good humour and old fashioned just nice-ness in the pages, you might want to give the book a hug. Doubly so, because it has some rather lovely cover art!
This book crosses a few genre boundaries. It's part dystopian sci-fi, part fantasy / mythology, with a bit of Cider With Rosie thrown in (set in a more modern Derbyshire setting rather than wartime Gloucestershire, but with no less idyllic recollections of a golden past). In fact, the sections of the novel that focus on Harry's childhood are my favourite parts. They're perhaps not what I should have been focusing on, but they were beautifully observed and made me nostalgic for a childhood that I hadn't even lived. I could have read a book just full of those! Especially with that extra sense of menace always lurking behind the nostalgia.
I'm going to make one small criticism, which is that the character of Jade isn't really fleshed out in this novel as much as I would like. I am almost certain that's because there were already so many ideas in here that there wasn't really room for her, and that more is to come but, perhaps because I'm a woman, I felt she was a bit "standard feisty love interest /side kick" and her motivations weren't very clear except to bravely drag Harry into adventure and then hug him a lot. I don't dislike her, because she's sweet, cool, cute and brave, but she's not very real to me, perhaps for those same reasons! Anyway, it's only a small thing and didn't stop me enjoying the novel! Plus, like I say, I really think Ross has more in store for Harry and Jade if he has the time and the opportunity to write it (as he leaves us a couple of untied plot strands to contemplate), which I hope he does, because I would certainly like to read it!
Overall, I thought this was a really fun book. An uplifting read in a difficult time, that said some important things in a friendly and approachable way. And I would also really like to climb Cadair Idris now! Although I still don't fancy a cheese and picalilli sandwich...
There is also a fair amount of political satire in here. I'm not sure that Ross bothered to disguise his nasty prime minister's likeness to Boris at all, and some well-aimed comments at The Change apply amusingly to Brexit, which I'm pretty sure is not a coincidence. It probably helps that Ross and I lean the same way politically (at least on the issues he's writing about here!) but, even without that, I think readers would struggle to be offended by the political commentary, as it's all done with humour and a light touch and isn't the only focus of the novel. In fact, there is so much good humour and old fashioned just nice-ness in the pages, you might want to give the book a hug. Doubly so, because it has some rather lovely cover art!
This book crosses a few genre boundaries. It's part dystopian sci-fi, part fantasy / mythology, with a bit of Cider With Rosie thrown in (set in a more modern Derbyshire setting rather than wartime Gloucestershire, but with no less idyllic recollections of a golden past). In fact, the sections of the novel that focus on Harry's childhood are my favourite parts. They're perhaps not what I should have been focusing on, but they were beautifully observed and made me nostalgic for a childhood that I hadn't even lived. I could have read a book just full of those! Especially with that extra sense of menace always lurking behind the nostalgia.
I'm going to make one small criticism, which is that the character of Jade isn't really fleshed out in this novel as much as I would like. I am almost certain that's because there were already so many ideas in here that there wasn't really room for her, and that more is to come but, perhaps because I'm a woman, I felt she was a bit "standard feisty love interest /side kick" and her motivations weren't very clear except to bravely drag Harry into adventure and then hug him a lot. I don't dislike her, because she's sweet, cool, cute and brave, but she's not very real to me, perhaps for those same reasons! Anyway, it's only a small thing and didn't stop me enjoying the novel! Plus, like I say, I really think Ross has more in store for Harry and Jade if he has the time and the opportunity to write it (as he leaves us a couple of untied plot strands to contemplate), which I hope he does, because I would certainly like to read it!
Overall, I thought this was a really fun book. An uplifting read in a difficult time, that said some important things in a friendly and approachable way. And I would also really like to climb Cadair Idris now! Although I still don't fancy a cheese and picalilli sandwich...
January 5, 2022
THE DOSSIER ON HARRY SALT.
Harry Salt appears at first to be an impressionable young man, and easily led. Especially by attractive colleagues. When he first came to our notice he was surrounded by variously unattractive fellow workers, and it was this situation which led him to seek another.
Situation, that is. Which was easily found, suspiciously so. At the Ministry of People.
Harry also found an attractive colleague, who in turn was attracted to Harry, as well as danger. And before long they certainly were in danger. Endangered, even. Largely on account of endangering this administration’s duty to implement The Change.
In terms of inspiration for his revolutionary spirit, Harry’s experiences with children yelling obscenities at his moped may carry a suggestion of the prescient mid-70s BBC children’s TV drama The Changes. And perhaps a hint of The White Mountains by John Christopher. But as young Salt’s short career at the MOP unfolded and unravelled, we were reminded more of key elements in Alan Garner’s The Weirdstone of Brisingamen. Except in Chesterfield, not Cheshire.
Couched in terms which ought to require no spoiler alert, Harry Salt managed to give it the full Visita Interiora Terrae Rectificando Invenies Occultum Lapidem – as Mr. Spittoon might put it. It might also be said that tuning into the crystal set and dropping out of the MOP helped Salt a-spire to better things.
Should any of the above seem unclear, or rather if the details about these events are above your security level, you may apply to see a copy of the associated document Step Forward, Harry Salt. However, as this presents a skewed and antagonistic account of recent government action your request may well be refused. It’s bad enough that independent publishers are still permitted to foment such rebellion. We can’t have government departments encouraging them.
Trigger warning: Step Forward, Harry Salt runs contrary to pro-Change thinking. It questions the wisdom, honesty and motivation of the nation’s leaders and actively incites insurrection. It is the policy of HM Government that the public should be discouraged from purchasing this book, recommending it to others or adding to the large number of positive reviews. Given that level of acclaim, it is likely that we will be faced with further such publications.
Speaking of which.
Following his role in frustrating the swill of the people, we must consider Harry Salt and his known associates an ongoing threat to the key objective of providing authoritarian and oppressive services to the population, who must be kept ignorant about our true purpose. Salt is still young, and should further challenges to our administration be presented, he can be expected to step forward once more. Or more than once.
Harry Salt’s step count must be kept to the bare minimum.
Harry Salt appears at first to be an impressionable young man, and easily led. Especially by attractive colleagues. When he first came to our notice he was surrounded by variously unattractive fellow workers, and it was this situation which led him to seek another.
Situation, that is. Which was easily found, suspiciously so. At the Ministry of People.
Harry also found an attractive colleague, who in turn was attracted to Harry, as well as danger. And before long they certainly were in danger. Endangered, even. Largely on account of endangering this administration’s duty to implement The Change.
In terms of inspiration for his revolutionary spirit, Harry’s experiences with children yelling obscenities at his moped may carry a suggestion of the prescient mid-70s BBC children’s TV drama The Changes. And perhaps a hint of The White Mountains by John Christopher. But as young Salt’s short career at the MOP unfolded and unravelled, we were reminded more of key elements in Alan Garner’s The Weirdstone of Brisingamen. Except in Chesterfield, not Cheshire.
Couched in terms which ought to require no spoiler alert, Harry Salt managed to give it the full Visita Interiora Terrae Rectificando Invenies Occultum Lapidem – as Mr. Spittoon might put it. It might also be said that tuning into the crystal set and dropping out of the MOP helped Salt a-spire to better things.
Should any of the above seem unclear, or rather if the details about these events are above your security level, you may apply to see a copy of the associated document Step Forward, Harry Salt. However, as this presents a skewed and antagonistic account of recent government action your request may well be refused. It’s bad enough that independent publishers are still permitted to foment such rebellion. We can’t have government departments encouraging them.
Trigger warning: Step Forward, Harry Salt runs contrary to pro-Change thinking. It questions the wisdom, honesty and motivation of the nation’s leaders and actively incites insurrection. It is the policy of HM Government that the public should be discouraged from purchasing this book, recommending it to others or adding to the large number of positive reviews. Given that level of acclaim, it is likely that we will be faced with further such publications.
Speaking of which.
Following his role in frustrating the swill of the people, we must consider Harry Salt and his known associates an ongoing threat to the key objective of providing authoritarian and oppressive services to the population, who must be kept ignorant about our true purpose. Salt is still young, and should further challenges to our administration be presented, he can be expected to step forward once more. Or more than once.
Harry Salt’s step count must be kept to the bare minimum.
May 14, 2022
This was one of those hidden gems that ordinarily I wouldn't have looked at, but thanks to Insta Book Tours I had the opportunity and I thoroughly enjoyed the read.
Bizarrely brilliant, and what an absolutely absurd ride we were taken on with Harry.
So cleverly thought out, well written and the world building throughout was highly visual and the eclectic bunch of characters were fantastic. I loved Harry and had no idea where his story was going to send, clone or not my heart went out to him at the end.
I'm already looking forward to seeing what masterpiece Ross treats us to next. For a debut novel this was very much akin to something I'd expect from Douglas Adams or Terry Pratchett.
Bizarrely brilliant, and what an absolutely absurd ride we were taken on with Harry.
So cleverly thought out, well written and the world building throughout was highly visual and the eclectic bunch of characters were fantastic. I loved Harry and had no idea where his story was going to send, clone or not my heart went out to him at the end.
I'm already looking forward to seeing what masterpiece Ross treats us to next. For a debut novel this was very much akin to something I'd expect from Douglas Adams or Terry Pratchett.
May 4, 2022
Typically I am very small minded with my book genres. I usually read anything where people are being murdered and that's mostly it.
I knew going in that it wasnt a murdery book, but I didn't expect to read and enjoy reading my two most 'I really dont like reading this' genres; Fantasy and Sci fi.
Political satire runs throughout it, emphasising the ridiculousness of the plans the government has. Royds Spittoon even might possibly slightly sound like a prime minister we might know!
The characters are really loveable, I especially loved Mr Newman. A guy that isnt all there and loves ham baguettes. But, is an absolute KEY part to the story. The main character Harry Salt, his story unravels in chapters from both past and present, which really helps to connect some dots in the story.
The magical fantasy and sci fi part, you're probably wondering where they fit into this political satire questionable government thing? Well I cant actually describe what makes them part of the book, because it would completely give away the story! I'll just say that the fantasy part is just described beautifully! Has a lovely mythical folklore thing going on. The sci fi element is reminiscent of a favourite game of mine.
It's a really down to earth blend of the two genres, nothing TOO out there for me, which really helped me enjoy it all the more.
This book is hilarious and a well rounded read, different worlds melding together create a world that I just want to be apart of. From someone who typically dislikes fantasy and Sci fi? I'd recommend trying it if you're the same!
More of Harry Salt's world please!!!!!
(Thanks so much to @instabooktours and @rosschops for allowing me to be apart of this tour. I recieved this book in return for a review but all opinions are my own!)
I knew going in that it wasnt a murdery book, but I didn't expect to read and enjoy reading my two most 'I really dont like reading this' genres; Fantasy and Sci fi.
Political satire runs throughout it, emphasising the ridiculousness of the plans the government has. Royds Spittoon even might possibly slightly sound like a prime minister we might know!
The characters are really loveable, I especially loved Mr Newman. A guy that isnt all there and loves ham baguettes. But, is an absolute KEY part to the story. The main character Harry Salt, his story unravels in chapters from both past and present, which really helps to connect some dots in the story.
The magical fantasy and sci fi part, you're probably wondering where they fit into this political satire questionable government thing? Well I cant actually describe what makes them part of the book, because it would completely give away the story! I'll just say that the fantasy part is just described beautifully! Has a lovely mythical folklore thing going on. The sci fi element is reminiscent of a favourite game of mine.
It's a really down to earth blend of the two genres, nothing TOO out there for me, which really helped me enjoy it all the more.
This book is hilarious and a well rounded read, different worlds melding together create a world that I just want to be apart of. From someone who typically dislikes fantasy and Sci fi? I'd recommend trying it if you're the same!
More of Harry Salt's world please!!!!!
(Thanks so much to @instabooktours and @rosschops for allowing me to be apart of this tour. I recieved this book in return for a review but all opinions are my own!)
May 11, 2022
What a fantastically crazy adventure with Harry Salt!
When Harry starts his new job the the Minstry of People, he doesn't really know what he's getting into. Just that his boss Mr Newman is a little bit all over the shop, and he fancies his new colleague Jade.
Harry and Jade venture around and stumble upon some things that do not make any sense, and end up in a bit of trouble. On top of that, the government are preparing for 'The Change'.. it's what the people voted for, but what actually is it?!
I loved the writing style of this book. Set in Derbyshire, around the peak district, the settings and dialogue are so vivid to the reader. Each character, animate and inanimate (Darren the Scooter!), have such great personalities and are developed so well.
The use of the dual timelines to help us understand Harry's childhood and his relationship with his father and their mysterious relationship, adds a lot of depth to the book.
The fantasy elements are incorporated really well and are not too heavy to confuse the readers, but are enough to add a lot of mystery and questions to the storyline.
I particularly loved Jades character, her personality is fantastic. And of course Newman and his crazy nonsensical speech had me laughing out loud a lot.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to dip into a rollercoater adventure around the Peak District.. and chesterfield.
When Harry starts his new job the the Minstry of People, he doesn't really know what he's getting into. Just that his boss Mr Newman is a little bit all over the shop, and he fancies his new colleague Jade.
Harry and Jade venture around and stumble upon some things that do not make any sense, and end up in a bit of trouble. On top of that, the government are preparing for 'The Change'.. it's what the people voted for, but what actually is it?!
I loved the writing style of this book. Set in Derbyshire, around the peak district, the settings and dialogue are so vivid to the reader. Each character, animate and inanimate (Darren the Scooter!), have such great personalities and are developed so well.
The use of the dual timelines to help us understand Harry's childhood and his relationship with his father and their mysterious relationship, adds a lot of depth to the book.
The fantasy elements are incorporated really well and are not too heavy to confuse the readers, but are enough to add a lot of mystery and questions to the storyline.
I particularly loved Jades character, her personality is fantastic. And of course Newman and his crazy nonsensical speech had me laughing out loud a lot.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to dip into a rollercoater adventure around the Peak District.. and chesterfield.
January 3, 2022
The Change the great British public have voted for (whatever it is) is about to happen. Harry Salt is working at the Ministry of People and it turns out that things are not quite as benign as they seem...and Harry holds the secret. Set in Derbyshire, this is a very funny twisty fast paced tale, Ross Lowe clearly knows first hand just how wet it is in the peak district - it's a Tom Sharpe /Alan Garner mash up! Lots of very funny lines but one that made me properly laugh out loud -
'Being dead was also very, very Welsh. Harry wasn't sure why, it just was'
Published by the fabulous Bearded Badger Publishing - it's a book you need to read!
'Being dead was also very, very Welsh. Harry wasn't sure why, it just was'
Published by the fabulous Bearded Badger Publishing - it's a book you need to read!
December 30, 2021
Let's cut to the chase.
Read this book, it's really quite good.
There's no way I can provide any sort of summary without giving away some key events in the story but needless to say this book is chock full of twists and turns which the not-so-hapless Harry Salt has to deal with.
Fundamental to the plot is the need to want Harry to come out on top and this is where the book shines. It would've been all too easy for the author to cram in a bunch of cool cultural references, with the occasional gag for good measure and hope for the best. This is not the case.
The underlying strength of this book is the quality of writing. Coupled with an intriguing and engaging series of events, this really does make this a one of a kind tale.
That this is the author's debut is a little mind-blowing.
Turns out Ross Lowe's quite good at this writing gig.
Read this book, it's really quite good.
There's no way I can provide any sort of summary without giving away some key events in the story but needless to say this book is chock full of twists and turns which the not-so-hapless Harry Salt has to deal with.
Fundamental to the plot is the need to want Harry to come out on top and this is where the book shines. It would've been all too easy for the author to cram in a bunch of cool cultural references, with the occasional gag for good measure and hope for the best. This is not the case.
The underlying strength of this book is the quality of writing. Coupled with an intriguing and engaging series of events, this really does make this a one of a kind tale.
That this is the author's debut is a little mind-blowing.
Turns out Ross Lowe's quite good at this writing gig.
January 5, 2022
I honestly still don’t know what genre this is. It’s genre-fluid! :) A tall tale of a fantastical nature, deeply rooted in the glorious East Midlands. I loved these characters, I laughed at least three times and my eyes got prickly at the end. This is all I require from a book. Most definitely pleased to have met Salty and Co. Especially Jade, two thumbs up for Jade.
There is one terrible falsehood is this book though: GREEN Penguins are the best ones. IDST.
There is one terrible falsehood is this book though: GREEN Penguins are the best ones. IDST.
December 27, 2021
Step Forward, Harry Salt is fantastic (moped) ride. A very British adventure, in the mode of Douglas Adams or Terry Pratchett, funny, fast paced and fabulous.
April 28, 2023
Absolutely bonkers in a good way!
Human cloning, underground world, magic crystals, epic battles and a seemingly normal young lad called Harry who falls for Jade.
Fantasy, romance, comedy. Bit of everything.
Also managed to rub in what an awful government we have.
I’d never normally read a book like this, in fact fantasy / sci fi is a genre I’d always overlook but Twitter made me buy it and I’m so glad I did, it’s good to broaden my horizons. I got to read something so different and it was thoroughly entertaining! I’d still avoid sci fi unless I knew it would be like this book!
I was totally absorbed, desperate to know what on earth was going on. I did get restless during the Great Hunt but that’s my problem, not the authors. I was impatient and just wanted to get to the other side.
Impressive vagina = Great Hunt - was one of my favourite lines.
Human cloning, underground world, magic crystals, epic battles and a seemingly normal young lad called Harry who falls for Jade.
Fantasy, romance, comedy. Bit of everything.
Also managed to rub in what an awful government we have.
I’d never normally read a book like this, in fact fantasy / sci fi is a genre I’d always overlook but Twitter made me buy it and I’m so glad I did, it’s good to broaden my horizons. I got to read something so different and it was thoroughly entertaining! I’d still avoid sci fi unless I knew it would be like this book!
I was totally absorbed, desperate to know what on earth was going on. I did get restless during the Great Hunt but that’s my problem, not the authors. I was impatient and just wanted to get to the other side.
Impressive vagina = Great Hunt - was one of my favourite lines.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 4, 2022
Really enjoyed this book.
Despite this not being my normal genre of reads, I loved it.
Enjoyed getting to know Harry Salt on his journey of self discovery and loved his blossoming romance with his colleague.
Crazy ending blew my mind!
Would love to find out what Harry gets up to next ……
Despite this not being my normal genre of reads, I loved it.
Enjoyed getting to know Harry Salt on his journey of self discovery and loved his blossoming romance with his colleague.
Crazy ending blew my mind!
Would love to find out what Harry gets up to next ……
December 29, 2021
What a ride. Spent Xmas in the company of Harry Salt and loved it. Can't really say too much about this book without giving any spoilers, and don't want to spoil it for anyone. It's like a Douglas Adams for the Brexit age on acid. This is the second novel from Bearded Badger Publishing, and like the first is a terrific read full of superb humour. You never know what is round the corner in this incredibly inventive book. Marvellous stuff.
May 14, 2022
Step forward harry salt by Ross Lowe
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Firstly thank you to insta book tours for this promotional copy.
This was a little disappointing for me as it had the premise and potential to be really great I think.
Unfortunately for me the writing just didn’t work, I loved the way the author was able to set the scene and his way of describing characters but I really disliked the way the characters spoke, at times of distress when there were huge plot developments they spoke with little or no urgency and it just felt ‘detached’.
I detested the way Newman spoke, I’m not sure why but it seemed to really irritate me more than I would have expected.
Maybe if it was a shorter book or split across two books then I would have found it more enjoyable as I just found my attention wandered too much .
The plot has potential for this to be great but sadly it just wasn’t for me.
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Firstly thank you to insta book tours for this promotional copy.
This was a little disappointing for me as it had the premise and potential to be really great I think.
Unfortunately for me the writing just didn’t work, I loved the way the author was able to set the scene and his way of describing characters but I really disliked the way the characters spoke, at times of distress when there were huge plot developments they spoke with little or no urgency and it just felt ‘detached’.
I detested the way Newman spoke, I’m not sure why but it seemed to really irritate me more than I would have expected.
Maybe if it was a shorter book or split across two books then I would have found it more enjoyable as I just found my attention wandered too much .
The plot has potential for this to be great but sadly it just wasn’t for me.
January 20, 2022
Step Forward, Harry Salt is a whirlwind of fantastical magic and mysticism, science fiction, political satire and coming of age existentialism (not in the way you’d expect).
As mad as a box of frogs, whilst remaining engaging and hilarious throughout.
Far too much going on to summarise here, so you’ll have to read it.
As mad as a box of frogs, whilst remaining engaging and hilarious throughout.
Far too much going on to summarise here, so you’ll have to read it.
January 7, 2022
Utterly bonkers, fun, hilarious! Loved it!
Laughed aloud at the parody element of our current political state, and the resulting chaos set in the Derbyshire countryside (‘Hot Fuzz’ vibes!)
I also personally really enjoyed the references to parts of Derbyshire (where I live) and Dolgellau/ Cader Idris etc (where I regularly holiday) which were spot on!
I do need to know what happens next in the lives of the characters though, do they hear from Annwn again, and does Alan ever get a new job?? Sequel?
Highly entertaining read! Thanks Ross Lowe!
Laughed aloud at the parody element of our current political state, and the resulting chaos set in the Derbyshire countryside (‘Hot Fuzz’ vibes!)
I also personally really enjoyed the references to parts of Derbyshire (where I live) and Dolgellau/ Cader Idris etc (where I regularly holiday) which were spot on!
I do need to know what happens next in the lives of the characters though, do they hear from Annwn again, and does Alan ever get a new job?? Sequel?
Highly entertaining read! Thanks Ross Lowe!
June 6, 2022
Well where to start? I see so many people stick to their set genres and this book is definitely one to get you out of your comfort zone and read something fun, interesting and a little bit crazy. This book has some political satire with part sci-fi, part mystical folklore part comedy.
The story definitely takes you on a rollercoaster ride. Plenty of action to keep you intrigued, and the story is written to make you unsure where its going to turn next. With some unusual characters, and a possible likening to the current prime minister, there is definitely an eclectic group of people to keep you entertained.
It is a very different style of writing that I'm used too, but once you get into the story the craziness starts to make sense. It's a very enjoyable read, and I would definitely recommend if you enjoy light sci-fi and a but of magic
The story definitely takes you on a rollercoaster ride. Plenty of action to keep you intrigued, and the story is written to make you unsure where its going to turn next. With some unusual characters, and a possible likening to the current prime minister, there is definitely an eclectic group of people to keep you entertained.
It is a very different style of writing that I'm used too, but once you get into the story the craziness starts to make sense. It's a very enjoyable read, and I would definitely recommend if you enjoy light sci-fi and a but of magic
May 8, 2022
This is a pleasantly barmy book with likeable characters, political satire and some unexpected fantasy sci-fi in the Peak District. I took a while to take to Harry Salt but he grew on me as very much a hapless Everyman character I came to root for. There are some enjoyable surprises and a playful way of working a well-known Peak District landscape from a fertile imagination that grounds the story in the mundane. It would have benefited from a bit more editing. If you want a crazy perspective on modern Britain or a story set in the Peak District, it is really worth reading. It has been published by a small indy publisher who deserves support for taking this forward rather than playing safe.
May 2, 2022
What a unique strange read! I honestly don’t think I have read anything like this before, comprised of multiple contrasted genres; Sci-Fi, Fantasy and action, it was all in this novel!
Portraying the importance of “The Change”, it started as a slow burn, but quickly turned into a fast paced, dangerous yet humorous novel, filling my curiosity.
This book was CRAZY, it combined so many unusual events mixed with political yet approachable satire, and most times I found myself giggling at how strange some parts were!
My favourite thing about this book was the the time-shift narrative and the childhood flashbacks which slowly uncovered Harry’s Secret (which he held the key to pretty much saving the world). The fantasy element near the end of the book was also a fantastic touch, and I really did not expect it!
I can’t say too much about this book without ruining the key events that unfold and I DO NOT want to spoil this for anyone. But I enjoyed following Harry on his journey to his own self-discovery.
The one thing I would of loved is for the character of Jade to be more developed as I really loved the mysterious nature around her, and wanted to know more, and at the start I did struggle with the writing style slightly, but as it went on it all started to make sense!
I hope there is a sequel after this because I want to know what he gets up to now he’s found out the truth
Portraying the importance of “The Change”, it started as a slow burn, but quickly turned into a fast paced, dangerous yet humorous novel, filling my curiosity.
This book was CRAZY, it combined so many unusual events mixed with political yet approachable satire, and most times I found myself giggling at how strange some parts were!
My favourite thing about this book was the the time-shift narrative and the childhood flashbacks which slowly uncovered Harry’s Secret (which he held the key to pretty much saving the world). The fantasy element near the end of the book was also a fantastic touch, and I really did not expect it!
I can’t say too much about this book without ruining the key events that unfold and I DO NOT want to spoil this for anyone. But I enjoyed following Harry on his journey to his own self-discovery.
The one thing I would of loved is for the character of Jade to be more developed as I really loved the mysterious nature around her, and wanted to know more, and at the start I did struggle with the writing style slightly, but as it went on it all started to make sense!
I hope there is a sequel after this because I want to know what he gets up to now he’s found out the truth
December 29, 2021
I loved this book - a cleverly structured blend of science fiction, fantasy, and folk lore linked with real places (cue Google searches on the Derbyshire area) and current affairs, and with well-rounded characters you can believe in and engage with, all caught up in a thrilling plot and told with an excellent eye for detail and a wicked sense of humour. Beautifully written and observed - I'll be keeping my copy to reread later but will be getting other copies for friends and family, Perfect for anyone who enjoys Terry Pratchett, Eva St John, Gabby Hutchinson Crouch, and Jodi Taylor.
March 7, 2022
It's an emotional rollercoaster this one. I was howling laughing, then full of empathy, then howling laughing, and that was on repeat. Such a great touch of surrealism. Just enough and not too much. Ace characters that live long in the mind. Wonderfully written. Treat yourself to it if you can. More please, Ross.
May 14, 2024
Step Forward, Harry Salt is a bit bonkers.
And by this, I mean that there’s a character called Royds Spittoon and a horse drop-kicks a car.
Following the equally bonkers Seven Nights at the Flamingo Hotel, Bearded Badger Books’ second published novel – and author Ross Lowe’s debut – sees the titular Harry Salt drawn into a Hot Fuzz-esque conspiracy amongst the hills of Derbyshire.
It’s sinister at times, tremendously daft, and a lot of fun.
Read the full review on talesfromabsurdia.com
And by this, I mean that there’s a character called Royds Spittoon and a horse drop-kicks a car.
Following the equally bonkers Seven Nights at the Flamingo Hotel, Bearded Badger Books’ second published novel – and author Ross Lowe’s debut – sees the titular Harry Salt drawn into a Hot Fuzz-esque conspiracy amongst the hills of Derbyshire.
It’s sinister at times, tremendously daft, and a lot of fun.
Read the full review on talesfromabsurdia.com
June 29, 2022
Really enjoyed this book. Well written, funny, with an eclectic mix of characters and events mean you are never quite sure what the next chapter has in store.
A heart warming tale that is great salve for the troubled times we seem to live in. Well done Ross.
A heart warming tale that is great salve for the troubled times we seem to live in. Well done Ross.
August 15, 2023
Somewhere between a 4 and 5 star, this is a riveting read for (but not exclusively) fans of Terry Pratchett and Douglas Adams. A real romp of a novel.
June 2, 2023
Really enjoyed this book, especially as it's set in my home county! I loved the first 2/3rds of the book, but after it went into the under ground realm, and the battles around chesterfield, the tone seemed to change, and wasn't to my tastes. But I loved it.
January 30, 2023
📚 Book Review📚
For Christmas this year I decided to treat myself to a couple of books. One of these was a mystery book that I let @wearebuk choose for me. That book was Step Forward, Harry Salt.
Let me preface this by saying that this book is absolutely bonkers. It starts out as a normal day following Harry riding Darren (his moped) to work and getting into a little bump. Nothing out of the ordinary. From here everything just gets crazy!
With real life parallels between characters and events and the uk government it makes for some funny caricatures that aren’t to far off the real people. There’s no real way to explain just the laughter and complete confusion about how this book turns into what it does.
With Harry babbling along side you, you never feel lost when the story takes a sharp turn in a direction you didn’t expect.
My main advice would be to stock up on ham, cheese and piccalilli as the cravings hit hard!
For Christmas this year I decided to treat myself to a couple of books. One of these was a mystery book that I let @wearebuk choose for me. That book was Step Forward, Harry Salt.
Let me preface this by saying that this book is absolutely bonkers. It starts out as a normal day following Harry riding Darren (his moped) to work and getting into a little bump. Nothing out of the ordinary. From here everything just gets crazy!
With real life parallels between characters and events and the uk government it makes for some funny caricatures that aren’t to far off the real people. There’s no real way to explain just the laughter and complete confusion about how this book turns into what it does.
With Harry babbling along side you, you never feel lost when the story takes a sharp turn in a direction you didn’t expect.
My main advice would be to stock up on ham, cheese and piccalilli as the cravings hit hard!
January 20, 2026
I adored this! Such an enjoyable read, and fully bonkers. It teeters between Pratchett-esque fantasy and Atwood-esque dystopia with perfect balance, with a fresh humour that's just right for our post-satire horrifically crazy real lives, and that I was glad to be transported into.
Like another reviewer said, it's impossible to say much more without spoiling it. If you are searching for something different, captivating, atmospheric and NOT fluffy then I highly recommend it. I mean, I highly recommend it anyway, but if those are your specifics then you'll love it.
Also been a long time since I read a book that I would actually like to see adapted for screen :)
Like another reviewer said, it's impossible to say much more without spoiling it. If you are searching for something different, captivating, atmospheric and NOT fluffy then I highly recommend it. I mean, I highly recommend it anyway, but if those are your specifics then you'll love it.
Also been a long time since I read a book that I would actually like to see adapted for screen :)
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