The Black Dog cover art

The Black Dog

The life-affirming debut novel from one of Britain's most-loved comedians

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The Black Dog

By: Kevin Bridges
Narrated by: Angus King
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About this listen

 'Edgy, dark, funny and perceptive' The Herald

'Immensely readable' Jo Brand

'Brilliant' The Sun

'Vulnerable and raw' Tom Allen

A life-affirming debut novel from one of Britain's most-loved comedians, Kevin Bridges - exploring dysfunctional friendships, family, and how to face your problems head on.

Declan Dolan has always wanted to be a writer, turning the ideas that spiral in his head into stories on the page. He longs to emulate his hometown hero, renowned writer and actor, James Cavani. Though their lives couldn't be more different, they have a lot more in common than they think.

With his pet labrador Hector and his best friend-turned-mentor Doof Doof by his side, Declan sets out to escape his world of binge-drinking, supermarket shelf-stacking and small-time gangsters. Meanwhile Cavani finds himself drawn back into this world that he thought he had already escaped.

Could it be that fate has a way of bringing two people together when they need it the most?©2022 Kevin Bridges Coming of Age Fiction Genre Fiction Literary Fiction Literature & Fiction Celebrity Comedy Funny Witty

Critic reviews

Edgy, dark, funny and perceptive ... and very sharply observed.
One of the funniest stand-up comedians in world and now the author of a brilliant novel. Kevin's talent is starting to annoy me now. (Rob Beckett, comedian and author of A CLASS ACT)
Immensely readable, fast moving and an insight into two sides of Kevin Bridges, I really enjoyed it. Kevin's warmth and wit shine through in his first novel. Never a dull moment and an array of engaging, quirky characters. A funny and absorbing read with some great insights into the world of negotiating being famous. (Jo Brand, comedian and author of CAN'T STAND UP FOR SITTING DOWN)
I've just finished The Black Dog with a massive lump in my throat - what a brilliant book. Touching, raucous, visceral and really funny with some moments of real profundity. (Harriet Tyce, author of IT ENDS AT MIDNIGHT)
I love this book. Brilliantly drawn, believable characters of raw heart and honesty. Cannot recommend enough. (Matt Coyne, author of MAN VS TODDLER)
Vulnerable and raw - this is a beautiful debut novel from the king of comedic storytelling. (Tom Allen, comedian and author of TOO MUCH)
It's funny (obviously) and dark (obviously) but tender and surprising, too. (Bobby Palmer, author of ISAAC AND THE EGG)
Watching Kevin, I was sure he was born to be a stand-up comic, but reading his book it is clear he can do absolutely anything he sets his mind to. I look forward to visiting his Michelin starred restaurant and living on his self-built space community. Everything that is great about Kevin's stand up - the characters he creates, the unapologetic root in working class life, the straddling of worlds - is what's great about this book. (Jon Richardson, comedian)
All stars
Most relevant
It got there in the end.
Need to know who won the race?
See folk have a go at narrator, probably been picked for a wider audience.

Slow burner.

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This was a surprising novel, as well as funny, dramatic, and dark, it was also touching and emotional.

It wasn’t the strongest bit of writing I’ve seen, but if Kevin is going to write more, I think he will get better and better.

It had a touch of the Trainspotting about it, which is hardly a crime, and a little of the Christopher Brookmyre’s A Tale Etched in Hard Black Pencil, but in all honesty those were the bits that felt strongest and most honest. The sections of the book with the other character were weaker, but still entertaining, and played off well with the rest.

I hope he writes more.

Unexpected

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Disappointed Ryzo disappeared after chapter 1.

Good story telling, could be a little long winded at times. Over describing a scene which almost put your attention to sleep.
Good story though, just felt a little like someone said the word count needed to be lifted !

Ryzo spin off needed

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Cracking storyline, really well crafted - and as an audiobook, an excellent performance.
In spite of some graphic descriptions I found real warmth in (most of) the characters and - no spoilers - the outcome was just right: for me the sign of good story-telling. This is going to make a great film: think Bill Forsyth/Danny Boyle/Guy Ritchie.

Excellent

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Brilliant, crisp, and funny debut and biding my time for book two - but eagerly biding my time

When is book two out?

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