{"product_id":"gentlemen-of-the-west","title":"Gentlemen Of The West By Owens, Agnes","description":"Gentlemen of the West, Agnes Owens’ debut novel, was first published in 1984 to wide critical acclaim.   The novel follows the humorous exploits of Mac, a young bricklayer, who, along with a colourful cast of characters, seeks solace and escape in the convivial atmosphere of the Paxton Arms and the levelling influence of alcohol. Each chapter feels like a self-contained episode, but this engaging novel is a cleverly constructed, coherent narrative that is a darkly humorous portrayal of working-class life. With sharp and inventive language, the novel skilfully balances drama and comedy, making you root for the underdog. 'A moving picture of a hard, surprising world which is forcing a young man to understand it and himself' – Alasdair Gray'Accomplished and resonant and . . . always informed with a comic astringency' – The Scotsman'Simultaneously funny and unflinching . . . an economy of language worthy of Ernest Hemingway or Muriel Spark' – Dani GaravelliPublished to celebrate Agnes Owens' centenary year in 2026.","brand":"MediaPlace","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":57642965991806,"sku":"NW9781846977602","price":9.4,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0817\/1379\/1261\/files\/9781846977602.jpg?v=1783192438","url":"https:\/\/mediaplace.com\/products\/gentlemen-of-the-west","provider":"MediaPlace","version":"1.0","type":"link"}