The Raw Shark Texts: Steven Hall

This is a review on a book re-read. I confess, when I first picked up this book, it was because of the cover - the spine looked very different from any of the other books on the library shelf, and the pop-out shark decided it for me. The back cover, in monotype:

First things first, stay calm.

If you are reading this, I'm not around anymore. Take the phone and speed dial 1. Tell the woman who answers that you are Eric Sanderson. The woman is Dr Randle. She'll understand what has happened and you will be able to see her straight away. Take the car keys and drive the yellow jeep to Dr Randle's house. If you haven't found it yet, there's a map in the envelope - it isn't too far and it's not hard to find.

Dr Randle will be able to answer all your questions. It's very important that you go straight away. Do not pass go. Do not explore. Do not collect two hundred pounds.

The house keys are hanging from a nail on the banister at the bottom of the stairs. Don't forget them.

With regret and also hope,
The First Eric Sanderson

( I have no idea how to categorize this book. Somewhere between science fiction and outright fantasy, it tries to convince you that this could happen. Spoiler warning. )

10/10. Recommended to anyone who likes contemporary fiction with a twist.

Cross-posted all over the place; apologies to the people who will see it multiple times.