A one-time Hot Press contributor who is now a hugely respected columnist with the Sunday Independent, Declan Lynch also displayed considerable chops as a fiction writer with his acclaimed novel The Rooms. That book examined alcoholism, whereas Lynch’s latest, The Ponzi Man, explores another of Ireland’s social ills – gambling.
The story is a first person account of the life of John Devlin, who autopsies his past while awaiting trial for fraud based around an internet gambling operation. As he reflects on his formative years working in a seaside resort, it becomes clear that Devlin learned early – on how to exploit people’s vulnerability. Throughout, there are many telling character insights, as well as delightful moments of black humour.
Told in an unfussy, no frills style that prioritises the compelling narrative, The Ponzi Man is gripping and hugely enjoyable tale.