Darkmans

by Nicola Barker
Darkmans cover
Good Books rating 4.23
Literary Fiction
Technical:
  • ID: 667
  • Added: 2025-09-18
  • Updated: 2025-09-18
  • ISBN: 9780007193622
  • Publisher: HarperCollins UK
  • Published: 2007-01-01
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £19.99

Darkmans is a uniquely modern novel set in the unassuming town of Ashford, where the past seems to whisper dark secrets into the present. The narrative intertwines the lives of diverse characters, from a medieval jester to a Kurd plagued by an irrational fear of salad, all connected by themes of love and jealousy. The book is the third in Nicola Barker's visionary Thames Gateway series, showcasing her distinctive literary talent and imaginative storytelling. /n/nThe novel blurs the lines between history and contemporary life, with historical figures like John Scogin and Andrew Boarde playing pivotal roles alongside modern-day characters. Barker's writing is both darkly humorous and deeply introspective, exploring the complexities of human relationships and the enduring power of the past. This epic tale is a testament to Barker's originality and her ability to craft a narrative that is as thought-provoking as it is entertaining.

Reviews
ANZ LitLovers LitBlog · 2018-08-19
entertaining 4.20

Darkmans is a wildly comic and deeply anarchic novel that stalls a bit towards the end.

The reviewer describes Darkmans as a wildly comic and deeply anarchic novel, praising its unique and humorous style. However, they note that the book stalls a little towards the end, suggesting that the pacing could be improved. Despite this, the reviewer finds the novel to be a captivating and entertaining read overall.

Quick quotes

    Darkmans is a wildly comic and deeply anarchic novel.

    It stalls a little towards the end as if Barker has suddenly realised that she needs to have her characters resolve their conflicts.

    The novel is a captivating and entertaining read overall.

The Asylum · 2007-08-23
engaging 4.50

Despite its length, Darkmans feels shorter due to its engaging style and the way the story unfolds.

The reviewer appreciates the engaging style of Darkmans, which makes the book feel shorter than its actual page count. The novel's style and aplomb are praised, suggesting that the reading experience is more enjoyable and less tedious than one might expect from an 838-page book. The reviewer finds the book's narrative approach to be particularly effective in keeping the reader engaged.

Quick quotes

    Darkmans is a loose, baggy book, and seems shorter than its huge page count.

    It doesn't really matter, as Darkmans has a style and aplomb.

    The novel's narrative approach is particularly effective in keeping the reader engaged.

The Guardian · 2007-08-16
challenging 4.00

This is a physically demanding book to read due to its size, but it is also a complex and intricate story that requires careful attention.

The reviewer notes that Darkmans is a challenging book to read physically due to its substantial size, which can be cumbersome to hold. However, the complexity and intricacy of the story make it a rewarding read for those willing to invest the time and effort. The book's unique structure and style are highlighted as notable aspects that contribute to its overall appeal.

Quick quotes

    This is a difficult book to read. It's actually hard to hold this great 838-page slab up to your face.

    It's a complex and intricate story that requires careful attention.

    The book's unique structure and style are highlighted as notable aspects.

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