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Meantime 2022
Meantime is a 2022 crime fiction novel written by Scottish comedian Frankie Boyle. The novel tells the story of Felix McAveety, a drug addict, who conducts an aimless search into the death of his friend Marina. Set in Glasgow, Scotland, just after the 2014 independence referendum, the investigation is supported by crime writer Jane, left-wing activist Amy, and Felix’s depressed neighbor Donnie. Together, they encounter Chong, who believes reality is simulated, and uncover clues suggesting British Intelligence may be connected to Marina's death.
This was Boyle’s first novel, although he had previously written non-fiction; parts of the novel were composed during stand-up tours in hotels and while walking through Glasgow. It was released by Baskerville, a new crime fiction imprint under John Murray, on 21 July 2022. The book received a nomination for Bloody Scotland's Debut of the Year award.
Critics noted that while the plot plays a secondary role, the novel offers strong social and political insights into colonialism, capitalism, and Scottish identity. Many praised Boyle’s humorous dialogue, vivid depictions of Glasgow and its people, and the exploration of Felix’s drug addiction. Some reviewers, however, found the storyline unfocused and felt certain sections overly digressive, as if Boyle were directly expressing his own thoughts rather than advancing the narrative.
Cast
- Felix McAveetya Glaswegian in his 30s and former BBC Scotland employee
- Marina KatosFelix's murdered friend
- Jane Pickforda successful crime fiction writer and ex-cop
- Donnie WilsonFelix's depressed downstairs roommate
- FatimaMarina's former roommate
- Mikeythe manager of the Go-Go
Details
- Publisher
- Baskerville
- ISBN
- 9781399801157
- Pages
- 356
- Format
- Print, ebook
