Description
Book SynopsisJohnny Jackson has just turned 75. He used to be famous, but his dead brother Duke was a hero. Self-made and unmade, film director and tycoon, all people remember about Johnny is the Music Hall monkey. Exiled for years, he’s heading home from his Japanese bunker, reluctantly - one last blockbuster and a civic honouring. But forget the adulation, the protests about his company and the concern of his security that he may be a target, Johnny just can’t shake Duke. This is a novel about brothers, lovers and all that’s lost in the longing to get what you want.
Trade ReviewThe Accidental Recluse continues to showcase McCulloch as a novelist with a genuine flair for originality and a distinctive and entertaining narrative storytelling style. An engaging read from cover to cover, The Accidental Recluse is unreservedly recommended.
* Midwest Book Review *
A fast-paced story with snappy dialogue and an absorbing narrative that mixes humour with pathos.
* The Independent *
The novel has brilliant portrayals of a childhood in Scotland in the 1950s and the hedonism of 1960s London. In Johnny Jackson, McCulloch has created a multifaceted, utterly ambiguous character who leaves the reader thinking about his story long after it is over.
* The Scotsman *
McCulloch resists the easy route of sentimentality and showy, crowd-pleasing catharsis. The climactic confrontation with the ghosts of his past is, when it comes, wilfully underplayed, and all the better for it.
* The Herald *
Tragic, compelling, and undeniably humorous... Equal parts funny and heartbreaking, The Accidental Recluse is a book that will stay with you...
* Justine Bottles, I Should Read That *
The Accidental Recluse is truly inspiring in its ability to create and develop its characters. Tom McCulloch is a very talented writer and his ability his showcased well in this book.
* Scottish Field *
I would recommend this for anyone who is interested in the mismatch between our public persona and the person inside, and the way stories can be twisted and shaped to match our goals. A fascinating read!
* Chrikaru Reads *
McCulloch has a very particular and unique writing style. He is beautifully descriptive and lyrical in his visual descriptions of the Scottish landscape. The characters are fascinating. I really enjoyed this novel and there are many twists and turns to keep the reader engaged.
* A Cascade of Books *
This is a literary work of art, a rare contemporary artistic gem, a beautiful rendition of love and pain delivered with a sometimes caustic, sharp, sense of humor. The Accidental Recluse is an unforgettable tale of sorrow and laughter. A beautiful tragicomedy, highly recommended!
* Tony Nesca, Screaming Skull Press *
