Michael Arditti's novel opens as the Victorian pier of the fictional English town of Francombe has been ravaged by fire. Locals suspect a connection with a developer who is about to unveil plans for a more modern facility. Duncan Neville, editor-proprietor of the Francombe & Salter Mercury, has led a campaign to halt the modernisation juggernaut. Duncan is a relic of old decency, saddled with control of the newspaper that has been his family legacy for 150 years, and an ongoing burden to him, but to which he is fiercely loyal. Despite his failed marriage, alienation from his children and being reduced to living in the poky flat above the newspaper offices, he continues to battle cynicism. Faintly ridiculous comic scenarios crop up, but the story is carefully constructed, and Arditti's sympathy for his characters makes this a very enjoyable read.
