A slim, fast read, with unexpected twists and developments that result in an almost edge-of-your-seat conclusion. I'm not sure if other readers had the sensation that the book was building to certain kind of reveal, but I raced to the end, desperately wanting to know just how the story would wrap up. The reading experience is gripping: Colin meets Ray, a relationship begins. And then it's over, and Colin reflects on Ray, the past, the effects of the relationship and Colin's part in it. He explores his coming of age via his family, his friends, and the culture of 1970s and 1980s England. I found it compelling, sad, poetic, and real. I was held to the end, balancing, with Colin, on the edge of revelation, right up until the very last page. Thanks for the chance to read.