Cracks in the Pavement by Martin Hopkins – a Review
Cracks in the Pavement is the debut release of Martin Hopkins. By the 7th chapter, I considered this book too depressing. Dan Walker is a young, handsome (not really stated, but by the amount of women discussed, it isn’t a big leap) man lamenting over a break-up who decides to mope; functioning via a monotonous routine in Edinburgh, Scotland. But the writing was compelling and the hero’s perspectives were so intriguing; gone went the feeling of dread — I couldn’t put the book down!
Slipping steadily into alcoholism, his chosen escape route, Dan recognizes his changing body. His looks aren’t gone, but he’s clearly showing signs of indifference. And how did he overlook so much poverty surrounding him? Suddenly very aware of beggars, the blight of a productive society, Dan is quick to help out with loose change he might have, but then simultaneously casts judgment upon those who seek the help. When Dan is brave enough to express an irritation, he just gave coins to another vagrant!, he becomes introspective (ashamed by the beggar’s verbal retaliation) and reassesses his thoughts. An existential examination takes root and he recognizes a corrosive self-loathing.
If that wasn’t enough to reevaluate his position in life, Dan’s ex-girlfriend, Emily, is attacked by a hypnotic stranger. In the most unexpected explanation of the event, Emily reveals that she was mesmerized by her assailant; his touch was akin to “kissing the Devil”. The experience wasn’t only tantalizing, it seemed to heal her of all pain. Dan is revolted by Emily’s reaction; not only is he alarmed by her “welcome” of the attacker, it further demolishes his view of normalcy.
I did not expect such tumultuous turns in the story. Dan goes on a vigilante rampage, obsessed with locating the mysterious figure, but he never curbs his own drinking, which ultimately leads to poor judgment and reckless behavior. Dan indulges in risky sex, involves himself with a group of homeless kids neck-deep in criminal activity and meets a cultured man in a camel-colored overcoat who isn’t at all what he purports himself to be. I commend the author for his subtle threading of this particular character, Morgan Huntley, who I originally thought was a vampire! No need for a PNR angle – there was enough mystery and action to satisfy any reader.
Unsure of his convictions, Dan is put to a test and explores what really matters to him. Cracks in the pavement can be a metaphor for character flaws, but don’t we all have them? What matters most is that we don’t dissolve into dust and slip through unnoticed. Dan goes down several dark paths and sometimes you’re staggered by his idiocy, but his outlook on life was bleak and I know I was desperate to read Dan’s resolve on it all. Makes you wonder if he chose well at the end? I enjoyed this book immensely and look forward to all future projects by Mr. Hopkins. Please let me know your own thoughts and feelings on this unique book!!
Reviewed by Carmen
Copy provided by Author
