A Big Boy Did It and Ran Away cover art

A Big Boy Did It and Ran Away

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About this listen

Back when they were students, Simon and his friend, Ray, had dreams to become rock stars. Fifteen years later their mid-30s are bearing down fast, and they're having to accept a less glamorous life.

Ray takes refuge from his responsibilities by living a virtual existence in online games. People say he needs to grow up, but everybody finds their own way of coping.

But for Simon it's serial murder, mass slaughter and professional assassination.

©2001 Christopher Brookmyre (P)2015 W F Howes Ltd Crime Fiction Mystery Suspense Thriller & Suspense Fiction Exciting Witty Crime

Critic reviews

"Sharply satirical and poignantly funny, this is a gripping and highly entertaining read." ( Time Out)
"A bit like a literary computer game, this novel has plenty of verve and dash." ( Irish Times)
All stars
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I usually avoid buying audio books I have read before and loved as the voice In my head always sounds so different but I thought this was marvelously delivered, I loved it and I am pleased I broke my rule for it.

Essentially this is a comic thriller involving a depressed English teacher, a policewoman and two year 7 scallies taking on a team of international terrorists. laugh out loud, edge of the seat stuff.

My favourite Brookmyre, perfectly read

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It would help if the narrator at least spoke to a Glaswegian before trying to ape the accent and the local allusions.
Good story if you're into crime fantasy a good notch above and beyond crime fiction and very enjoyable once you adjust for the Estuary English accent - Rank Bajean for goodness sake!

Will Chris B.'s next book be set in Kelvinside Academy or will De Savier be investigating the the narrator and the list glottal stop. We can but hope!

Glasgow written but not Glesca read - the Lost Glottal Stop Mystery

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Loved it. Interesting story with twists and turns. Great narrator. Would definitely recommend. Will be listening to more by this author.

Loved it

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A fair few coincidences but a cracking listen. I'd forgotten I'd read this book many years ago, but still enjoyed the listen. Good narration, humorous but dark narrative and some top flight cursing. Don't play this on the school run but that isn't a huge surprise with this author.

A really good listen

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After listening to the first chapter, I thought I might be out of my depth with this book as it's written in a style I'm not used to, but I persevered and was soon hooked. I loved all the twists and turns and revelations. Also liked all the computer game references. Top job Chris Brookmyre, I'll be searching for more of your books!

Unexpectedly hooked

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