Heroes & Villains, the Aston Villa fanzine
Heroes & Villains => Heroes Discussion => Topic started by: Percy McCarthy on July 11, 2020, 07:08:38 PM
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Enjoy... and thanks for all the practice:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B08CSNS2K7/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=gangsters%2C+geezers+and+mods&qid=1594490479&sr=8-1
If any of you are kind enough to buy it, please leave a review if you enjoy it. If you don’t, don’t bother!
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Put the link on our FB page for you.
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Put the link on our FB page for you.
Thanks Lee.
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You are now £6.99 (minus Amazon commission) richer, Percy.
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No paperback version?
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You are now £6.99 (minus Amazon commission) richer, Percy.
Bless you mate.
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No paperback version?
No not as yet mate.
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You are now £6.99 (minus Amazon commission) richer, Percy.
Bless you mate.
No problem. In return I expect you to take my savings (a cool £15) and use your invstment nous to make me a thousandaire by next Friday.
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No paperback version?
No not as yet mate.
I’ll need to buy a kindle then. I’m so old fashioned.
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No paperback version?
No not as yet mate.
I’ll need to buy a kindle then. I’m so old fashioned.
You can get an app apparently. (Admittedly, I would be lost at this point).
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You are now £6.99 (minus Amazon commission) richer, Percy.
Bless you mate.
No problem. In return I expect you to take my savings (a cool £15) and use your invstment nous to make me a thousandaire by next Friday.
Short sterling.
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You are now £6.99 (minus Amazon commission) richer, Percy.
Bless you mate.
No problem. In return I expect you to take my savings (a cool £15) and use your invstment nous to make me a thousandaire by next Friday.
Short sterling.
wasn't that a flying boat ?
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Raheem's son?
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Does Paul Weller turn up halfway through on Erdington High Street?
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Does Paul Weller turn up halfway through on Erdington High Street?
Not literally, but his presence is felt.
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How does it work ?
Do you have to sell x number of kindle copies before the publisher will commission a ‘real’ version? Do you even need a publisher for a kindle version?
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How does it work ?
Do you have to sell x number of kindle copies before the publisher will commission a ‘real’ version? Do you even need a publisher for a kindle version?
I’m not sure mate. It gave me the option of creating a paperback when I uploaded it but I’m not sure if that was just an option for me.
And no, you don’t need a publisher.
I’ve got one for my next one though, but I need to get crowdfunding to support 500 copies.
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You are now £6.99 (minus Amazon commission) richer, Percy.
Bless you mate.
No problem. In return I expect you to take my savings (a cool £15) and use your invstment nous to make me a thousandaire by next Friday.
Short sterling.
wasn't that a flying boat ?
Resident aviation nerd here. You are thinking of the Sunderland. Stirling was a four engined bomber. Will check the book out
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If it was someone from here, thanks for the lovely review!
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It was me. You're welcome!
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It was me. You're welcome!
Much appreciated SE! Mind if I quote it?
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Go for it.
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Thanks!
5 out of 5 stars.
“Fascinating page-turner
This is excellent. A real window into the author’s lived experience that turns into a compelling thriller. I only wish that there was more of it!“
Made my day that did.
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Trying to buy it mate, but it won’t let me on my iPhone. I’ll dig out my Kindle tomorrow and try on that. Thanks for the mention, made my day, saw it on the sample it did let me download.
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Alright ! We know each other for sure apart from the MGT connection .
I purchased it and also passed it on to a group of expats and good Villa that know all the places .
Fair play to you
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Does Paul Weller turn up halfway through on Erdington High Street?
Not literally, but his presence is felt.
The ghost of Paul Weller, I can just about live with that though not that happy about him turning up in North Brum.
Very strange intro on Amazon, Percy but despite the stupid reference to 'Mods' in the title, I'm going to give you the benefit of the doubt. Your writing embraces us Brummies and your celebration of the city is second to none.
We need more Percies though preferably better dressed. Good luck, fella.
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I’d love to write a book, but unfortunately nothing that interesting has ever really happened in my life to write about. I’ve got the skills to do it I think, just not the experiences. Nuneaton was pretty boring growing up there. London was better, but not exactly life-changing.
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Alright ! We know each other for sure apart from the MGT connection .
I purchased it and also passed it on to a group of expats and good Villa that know all the places .
Fair play to you
Thanks mate.
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Trying to buy it mate, but it won’t let me on my iPhone. I’ll dig out my Kindle tomorrow and try on that. Thanks for the mention, made my day, saw it on the sample it did let me download.
Bless you mate, thanks.
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I’d love to write a book, but unfortunately nothing that interesting has ever really happened in my life to write about. I’ve got the skills to do it I think, just not the experiences. Nuneaton was pretty boring growing up there. London was better, but not exactly life-changing.
I can see why that might be a problem, but have a go anyway. You might be surprised how much you can make up. I was.
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Does Paul Weller turn up halfway through on Erdington High Street?
Not literally, but his presence is felt.
The ghost of Paul Weller, I can just about live with that though not that happy about him turning up in North Brum.
Very strange intro on Amazon, Percy but despite the stupid reference to 'Mods' in the title, I'm going to give you the benefit of the doubt. Your writing embraces us Brummies and your celebration of the city is second to none.
We need more Percies though preferably better dressed. Good luck, fella.
Erm... thanks. I think.
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Does Paul Weller turn up halfway through on Erdington High Street?
Not literally, but his presence is felt.
The ghost of Paul Weller, I can just about live with that though not that happy about him turning up in North Brum.
Very strange intro on Amazon, Percy but despite the stupid reference to 'Mods' in the title, I'm going to give you the benefit of the doubt. Your writing embraces us Brummies and your celebration of the city is second to none.
We need more Percies though preferably better dressed. Good luck, fella.
Erm... thanks. I think.
Ha! Just seen your reference to a 'copper' for washing the clothes. Over here we still use the word 'copa' for a room for washing the clothes. Looks a great read, fella, not that I expected anything less. You can file that as a compliment. ;)
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No paperback version?
No not as yet mate.
I’ll need to buy a kindle then. I’m so old fashioned.
You can get an app apparently. (Admittedly, I would be lost at this point).
There is a Kindle app for Windows: it is pretty good. The Android app is fairly decent as well. Can't speak about IOS.
The character Keri seems very familiar. She knows how to mix things up and cause chaos and carnage.
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I loved it but hated it at the same time, if that makes sense? Probably not. We’re the only ones who can have a pop at Nuneaton.
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How does it work ?
Do you have to sell x number of kindle copies before the publisher will commission a ‘real’ version? Do you even need a publisher for a kindle version?
I’m not sure mate. It gave me the option of creating a paperback when I uploaded it but I’m not sure if that was just an option for me.
And no, you don’t need a publisher.
I’ve got one for my next one though, but I need to get crowdfunding to support 500 copies.
Ok, I dont really get on with Kindles but if there is no pathway to a paperback I'll crack on and buy it. Good luck.
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How does it work ?
Do you have to sell x number of kindle copies before the publisher will commission a ‘real’ version? Do you even need a publisher for a kindle version?
I’m not sure mate. It gave me the option of creating a paperback when I uploaded it but I’m not sure if that was just an option for me.
And no, you don’t need a publisher.
I’ve got one for my next one though, but I need to get crowdfunding to support 500 copies.
Ok, I dont really get on with Kindles but if there is no pathway to a paperback I'll crack on and buy it. Good luck.
Cheers mate.
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It’s gone in at #6 on some Amazon chart. Above Charles Dickens!
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Above who?
Well done!
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Above who?
Well done!
Cheers mate!
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That's great. The very best of luck with it.
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It’s gone in at #6 on some Amazon chart. Above Charles Dickens!
I think it's the "Inner City Depravity Bestsellers List".
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That's great. The very best of luck with it.
Nice one, cheers.
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It’s gone in at #6 on some Amazon chart. Above Charles Dickens!
I think it's the "Inner City Depravity Bestsellers List".
Haha! ‘Hottest new releases’ according to my son. I said ‘it can’t be, Dickens is number 8’ and he said it’s because he’s only just gone onto kindle.
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5.0 out of 5 starsVerified Purchase
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 13 July 2020
“A cracking read.
Brilliantly written and absorbing from start to finish. A must read for anyone interested in authentic working class culture or just a great story told with humour and verve.”
Thanks whoever you are! These reviews are really appreciated. Please keep them coming!
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Nice one Percy. I don't get on with Kindle so will wait for the paperback. I love the intro' and prologue and have sent the link to a load of ex pats who will definitely be interested. Sending you a pm too.
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Just popped it on to my Kindle, Percy!
I'd left Aston by the time you have set it, but looking forward to some familiar settings and experiences!
Good on yer mate! I'll leave a review when I've read it.
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Don't have a kindle but my Mrs is a lot more clued up than me on tech so I will endeavor to buy the book. I was born in the inner city (back to back house)and grew up there. Saltley/ Duddeston, Alum Rock, Nechells was and still is my stomping ground so I love stuff like this.
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Nice one Percy. I don't get on with Kindle so will wait for the paperback. I love the intro' and prologue and have sent the link to a load of ex pats who will definitely be interested. Sending you a pm too.
Cheers Bren, for some reason it doesn’t recognise Bren’d when I try to reply. You can get the kindle app on another device I think. I’ve read yours though, I’ll maybe have a chat with our friend about it.
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Just popped it on to my Kindle, Percy!
I'd left Aston by the time you have set it, but looking forward to some familiar settings and experiences!
Good on yer mate! I'll leave a review when I've read it.
Good stuff mate, thanks a lot. I hope you enjoy it. I was hoping to write about... was it Sylvia’s bar or Stella’s? But I lost touch with the bloke who used to go on about it. Upstairs room in a pub in Sycamore Road I think.
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Don't have a kindle but my Mrs is a lot more clued up than me on tech so I will endeavor to buy the book. I was born in the inner city (back to back house)and grew up there. Saltley/ Duddeston, Alum Rock, Nechells was and still is my stomping ground so I love stuff like this.
You’ve walked the streets in the book mate. Thanks for buying it.
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Just out of interest do you know the Villa fan who runs the Shipwreck bar in St Kitts?
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Nice one Percy. I don't get on with Kindle so will wait for the paperback. I love the intro' and prologue and have sent the link to a load of ex pats who will definitely be interested. Sending you a pm too.
Cheers Bren, for some reason it doesn’t recognise Bren’d when I try to reply. You can get the kindle app on another device I think. I’ve read yours though, I’ll maybe have a chat with our friend about it.
I’m registered as Bren_d. The Bren’d was a change when an N’Zogbia inspired user name was all the rage. (How daft were we?) You can change your user name but your original username stays under your registration. At least I think that’s the reason.
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Just out of interest do you know the Villa fan who runs the Shipwreck bar in St Kitts?
I don’t mate. I think I’ve been though. Had our picture taken with Kim Collins there if I’ve got the right place.
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Yeah it's the place with all the monkeys Nevis Side of St Kitts.
I spent some time with two of the lads mentioned in your book in Mexico .very respectable but still mad as a box of frogs .
Enjoyed the book greatly brought back so many memories good and bad .
I was at Brighton you forgot about the Pompey Chelsea shenanigans .
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Just popped it on to my Kindle, Percy!
I'd left Aston by the time you have set it, but looking forward to some familiar settings and experiences!
Good on yer mate! I'll leave a review when I've read it.
Good stuff mate, thanks a lot. I hope you enjoy it. I was hoping to write about... was it Sylvia’s bar or Stella’s? But I lost touch with the bloke who used to go on about it. Upstairs room in a pub in Sycamore Road I think.
Definitely Stella's Bar....run by Sylvia....at the Queen's Tavern???
Another uncle - Billy Bignall from Summer Lane was a professional barman and did big gigs around the city, especially at The Midland, The Bingley Halls, Aston Hipp etc. Always wore a suit and tie even on the beach one year at Ilfracombe!
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Just out of interest do you know the Villa fan who runs the Shipwreck bar in St Kitts?
Spent a lot of time there when we were in St Kitts a couple of years ago. It’s my cousin’s local. I met the bloke you are talking about but didn’t realise he was a Villa fan.
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Yeah I spent a lot of time in Nevis with work and when they opened up the ferry it was an easy ride .had a few drunken afternoons lamenting about the Villa
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Yeah I spent a lot of time in Nevis with work and when they opened up the ferry it was an easy ride .had a few drunken afternoons lamenting about the Villa
We spent a couple of days in Nevis, stayed at the hotel on the beach. There’s a good chance you would have bumped into my cousin who is a regular in Shipwreck and was a regular down the Villa before he moved away.
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Just popped it on to my Kindle, Percy!
I'd left Aston by the time you have set it, but looking forward to some familiar settings and experiences!
Good on yer mate! I'll leave a review when I've read it.
Good stuff mate, thanks a lot. I hope you enjoy it. I was hoping to write about... was it Sylvia’s bar or Stella’s? But I lost touch with the bloke who used to go on about it. Upstairs room in a pub in Sycamore Road I think.
Definitely Stella's Bar....run by Sylvia....at the Queen's Tavern???
Another uncle - Billy Bignall from Summer Lane was a professional barman and did big gigs around the city, especially at The Midland, The Bingley Halls, Aston Hipp etc. Always wore a suit and tie even on the beach one year at Ilfracombe!
Marvellous. I should have researched it with you.
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Yeah it's the place with all the monkeys Nevis Side of St Kitts.
I spent some time with two of the lads mentioned in your book in Mexico .very respectable but still mad as a box of frogs .
Enjoyed the book greatly brought back so many memories good and bad .
I was at Brighton you forgot about the Pompey Chelsea shenanigans .
I must have missed them or blanked them out.
Glad you enjoyed the book. Did you leave a review? :)
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Just got the missus to download it onto HER kindle, which has started the first arguement of the day. Hope it’s worth it. Ossie to yow Percy.
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Just got the missus to download it onto HER kindle, which has started the first arguement of the day. Hope it’s worth it. Ossie to yow Percy.
Whoops, sorry about that. Cheers though tommy.
If it’s any consolation, it started loads of rows in our house. Wait til she’s finished reading it!
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No not yet will do
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No not yet will do
Much appreciated mate. Thanks very much.
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Just downloaded it cheers, been looking for a good excuse not to talk to the missus.
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Just downloaded it cheers, been looking for a good excuse not to talk to the missus.
Haha! Thought you were getting on? Thanks mate.
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Just downloaded it cheers, been looking for a good excuse not to talk to the missus.
Haha! Thought you were getting on? Thanks mate.
Yeah, that was before she started working again. They were simpler times.
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Just downloaded it cheers, been looking for a good excuse not to talk to the missus.
Haha! Thought you were getting on? Thanks mate.
Yeah, that was before she started working again. They were simpler times.
Scary. My missus has been happy on furlough, and she’s not looking forward to going back.
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Hey Percy; really enjoyed reading it.
I was a little shocked, actually, reading about Seff: I used to knock around with him in 1974-75 (him and his two buddies, Hutch and Hen; all three rabid bluenoses). Last I heard he was doing time for being one of the Zulus organisers.
Anyway, a great read.
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Hey Percy; really enjoyed reading it.
I was a little shocked, actually, reading about Seff: I used to knock around with him in 1974-75 (him and his two buddies, Hutch and Hen; all three rabid bluenoses). Last I heard he was doing time for being one of the Zulus organisers.
Anyway, a great read.
He did do time, and everybody knew it was bullshit. It kind of blighted his life in this country, and he emigrated when he got out. Never in the reign of pig’s pudding was he a Zulu organiser. Terrible business.
Glad you enjoyed it, and thanks for posting. Feel free to leave a review on Amazon 😘
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Am going to buy this mate. Well done to you, sir!
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Am going to buy this mate. Well done to you, sir!
Thanks mate, much appreciated!
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Hey Percy; really enjoyed reading it.
I was a little shocked, actually, reading about Seff: I used to knock around with him in 1974-75 (him and his two buddies, Hutch and Hen; all three rabid bluenoses). Last I heard he was doing time for being one of the Zulus organisers.
Anyway, a great read.
Seff is doing fine got a nice lady and along with another Blues lad living a nice respectable life . Still mad as a box of frogs .
And has a nice retirement contingency.
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I'm halfway through, it's superb, genuine laugh out loud. My 10 year old lad enjoyed the Bruce Rioch fund story a lot.
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I'm halfway through, it's superb, genuine laugh out loud. My 10 year old lad enjoyed the Bruce Rioch fund story a lot.
Careful with the rest of it mate. You should definitely read first.
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Hey Percy; really enjoyed reading it.
I was a little shocked, actually, reading about Seff: I used to knock around with him in 1974-75 (him and his two buddies, Hutch and Hen; all three rabid bluenoses). Last I heard he was doing time for being one of the Zulus organisers.
Anyway, a great read.
Seff is doing fine got a nice lady and along with another Blues lad living a nice respectable life . Still mad as a box of frogs .
And has a nice retirement contingency.
I see him on fb occasionally.
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Hey Percy; really enjoyed reading it.
I was a little shocked, actually, reading about Seff: I used to knock around with him in 1974-75 (him and his two buddies, Hutch and Hen; all three rabid bluenoses). Last I heard he was doing time for being one of the Zulus organisers.
Anyway, a great read.
Seff is doing fine got a nice lady and along with another Blues lad living a nice respectable life . Still mad as a box of frogs .
And has a nice retirement contingency.
I see him on fb occasionally.
Cheers for the update.
Already posted a review, Perce :-) (not printed on Amazon yet)
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Hey Percy; really enjoyed reading it.
I was a little shocked, actually, reading about Seff: I used to knock around with him in 1974-75 (him and his two buddies, Hutch and Hen; all three rabid bluenoses). Last I heard he was doing time for being one of the Zulus organisers.
Anyway, a great read.
Seff is doing fine got a nice lady and along with another Blues lad living a nice respectable life . Still mad as a box of frogs .
And has a nice retirement contingency.
I see him on fb occasionally.
Cheers for the update.
Already posted a review, Perce :-) (not printed on Amazon yet)
Bless you mate, it’s a big help apparently.
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Very happy with this one, thanks whoever you are!
reviewed in the United Kingdom on 17 July 2020
“It’s a way of life............”
Covers a variety of topics quite personal to the author. Football, music, drinking, drugs, crime, relationships, loyalty, passion, fear,power and dreams.You can decide yourselves which parts are from the vivid imagination of the author down to the actual realities . Well written and it will appeal to many who have similar experiences growing up chasing their dreams.Your club doesn’t leave you neither does the music or the City you grew up in and we can all relate to that.
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Very happy with this one, thanks whoever you are!
reviewed in the United Kingdom on 17 July 2020
“It’s a way of life............”
Covers a variety of topics quite personal to the author. Football, music, drinking, drugs, crime, relationships, loyalty, passion, fear,power and dreams.You can decide yourselves which parts are from the vivid imagination of the author down to the actual realities . Well written and it will appeal to many who have similar experiences growing up chasing their dreams.Your club doesn’t leave you neither does the music or the City you grew up in and we can all relate to that.
Hi Percy ive tried to PM you did you get it?
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Very happy with this one, thanks whoever you are!
reviewed in the United Kingdom on 17 July 2020
“It’s a way of life............”
Covers a variety of topics quite personal to the author. Football, music, drinking, drugs, crime, relationships, loyalty, passion, fear,power and dreams.You can decide yourselves which parts are from the vivid imagination of the author down to the actual realities . Well written and it will appeal to many who have similar experiences growing up chasing their dreams.Your club doesn’t leave you neither does the music or the City you grew up in and we can all relate to that.
[/quote
Hi Percy ive tried to PM you did you get it?
Thanks mate, got it.
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Very happy with this one, thanks whoever you are!
reviewed in the United Kingdom on 17 July 2020
“It’s a way of life............”
Covers a variety of topics quite personal to the author. Football, music, drinking, drugs, crime, relationships, loyalty, passion, fear,power and dreams.You can decide yourselves which parts are from the vivid imagination of the author down to the actual realities . Well written and it will appeal to many who have similar experiences growing up chasing their dreams.Your club doesn’t leave you neither does the music or the City you grew up in and we can all relate to that.
[/quote
Hi Percy ive tried to PM you did you get it?
Thanks mate, got it.
Sorted mate
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Very happy with this one, thanks whoever you are!
reviewed in the United Kingdom on 17 July 2020
“It’s a way of life............”
Covers a variety of topics quite personal to the author. Football, music, drinking, drugs, crime, relationships, loyalty, passion, fear,power and dreams.You can decide yourselves which parts are from the vivid imagination of the author down to the actual realities . Well written and it will appeal to many who have similar experiences growing up chasing their dreams.Your club doesn’t leave you neither does the music or the City you grew up in and we can all relate to that.
Hi Percy ive tried to PM you did you get it?
Thanks mate, got it.
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Very happy with this one, thanks whoever you are!
reviewed in the United Kingdom on 17 July 2020
“It’s a way of life............”
Covers a variety of topics quite personal to the author. Football, music, drinking, drugs, crime, relationships, loyalty, passion, fear,power and dreams.You can decide yourselves which parts are from the vivid imagination of the author down to the actual realities . Well written and it will appeal to many who have similar experiences growing up chasing their dreams.Your club doesn’t leave you neither does the music or the City you grew up in and we can all relate to that.
Hi Percy ive tried to PM you did you get it?
Thanks mate, got it.
Having some issues here. Ignore me lol.
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Just start again without quoting lol.
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Getting some beautiful reviews:
“A child in time
Actually, was the protagonist ever really a child?! The 'hero' of the book had to grow up quickly on the tough streets of Birmingham, with family-members and friends simply trying to survive - by fair means or foul. This book is very much of its time: the England of the 1970's and 80's was a chastening experience for the working-classes and this is a brilliant read about how people clawed their way through the challenges of life. It neither tries to glorify nor justify what took place; it simply documents the development through life of a group of kids born in the challenging streets of Aston, Birmingham. A compelling read.”
Thanks for taking the time and putting so much thought into it.
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A man or woman after my own heart here:
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 20 July 2020
“A tale of The First City
A riveting read. The laugh out loud moments, recognition and shocks are all here. You can't put it down. Enjoy”
The First City - love it!
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Just getting into it. Canet-Plage, Rousillon
(https://i.ibb.co/crJjLfg/flashmul.jpg)
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Just getting into it. Canet-Plage, Rousillon
(https://i.ibb.co/crJjLfg/flashmul.jpg)
Nice one Badders!
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I read a quarter before lunch. 'Blues fans in the remedial class at school'. 'Earl who gets up early (I went to primary and secondary school with him) Venglos not believing the narrator's praise... Love it.
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I read a quarter before lunch. 'Blues fans in the remedial class at school'. 'Earl who gets up early (I went to primary and secondary school with him) Venglos not believing the narrator's praise... Love it.
Thanks mate!
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Praise indeed:
“Peaky Blinders meets Trainspotting
...or the underclass meets the underworld. This book brilliantly and evocatively captures hitherto hidden aspects of its second city setting. It could be the best and, if filmed, most important book about Birmingham ever written. Up there with Jonathan Coe’s Rotters Club for me. An instant classic.“
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Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 26 July 2020
Top read
I love books about Brum especially if it’s someone who really knows not only the geography but the humour and those little touches only a Brummie would know. This is a treat for whichever side of the football fence you lie on. This sits well with other books of football and supporters lifestyle I’ve read - it’s a great read, written to be read fast! More please.
Thank you very much Your Grace, much appreciated.
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A hardened criminal just messaged me ‘Just finished it, great read, the last few pages have just given me goosebumps’. And he wasn’t even in it.
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Jesus Christ, it’s better than I thought...
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 2 August 2020
A vivid social document perfectly blended with gritty urban crime fiction
Gangsters, Geezers and Mods marries social documentary and crime thriller. Drawing on autobiographical material, the canvas is a wide ranging survey of youth culture since the early 70s. Football matches provide the setting for hilarious capers as well as brilliantly relived scenes of glory and disappointment. If you wear claret and blue, you will rejoice in the supremely witty digs at the denizens of Small Heath. The protagonist's love of Paul Weller is celebrated in some of the most insightful commentary on the meaning of this musical icon I have ever read. The soundtrack he evinces and analyses spans post-war jazz to modern rap.
The more fictional elements of the book take a darker route through hard drugs, gang violence with surprising plot twists and turns. Hints are laid early and the story is woven with pace and suspense.
I enjoyed most of all the protagonist/author's engagement with life. Despite a tough upbringing, there is a youthful exuberance that shines through in every match, every pub conversation, every escapade. The characters are a comedic gallery of rogues and are beautifully, sometimes tenderly depicted. On multiple occasions, the protagonist shows a better, kinder side is shown in contrast to his dystopian surroundings. And that is where this book wins. The main character is both fully immersed in his surroundings but has the wisdom to stand apart, the ability to engage completely but also the distance to stand back and offer wry observations and insightful assessment of what it's like to grow up in the inner city as a working class lad from humble beginnings.
To say I enjoyed it is an understatement. I read it in two sittings. In conjuring up the Birmingham of my youth, the books has evoked fond memories of many long-forgotten incidents, people and places. Pennell is Birmingham's answer to Danny Baker. If you grew up in Birmingham any time since the 1960s, you too will love this book.
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To be published on Amazon France :
Il était une fois dans les West Midlands.
Birmingham, la "ville aux mille métiers", est injustement méconnue du grand public car elle traîne une réputation de jungle de béton où, pour citer Paul Weller (le grand parolier de The Jam et The Style Council dont les textes semblent écrire et décrire la vie de Stephen l'auteur et Steve le narrateur) "le rêve de l'urbaniste a mal tourné". Que nenni ! Steve adore Birmingham, il y est né, y vit, cela lui arrive même d'y passer ses vacances, et il commence par "la plus longue phrase jamais publiée dans un livre" pour répondre, un peu à la manière du Front Populaire de Judée dans Monty Python: La Vie de Brian, à la question "Qu'est-ce que Birmingham a donné au monde ?" Vous voilà renseigné !
Birmingham est plutôt la ville aux mille magouilles pour Steve, né l'année où Dr Martin Luther King Jr a prononcé son célèbre discours "I have a Dream". Ses "rêves d'enfant" (coucou Paul Weller !) sont rapidement brisés par la dure réalité des rues d'Aston, quartier mythique aux odeurs âpres émanant de l'usine HP Sauce où joue Aston Villa, son amour de toujours. C'est ici que Steve s'initie à la vie d'arnaqueur, fréquente des hooligans et des voyous et vit au rythme de la culture "Mod" avant de tomber amoureuse d'une belle antillaise, avec les conséquences tragiques évoquées dans le prologue.
Birmingham, à travers Stephen Pennell, possède désormais une authentique voix. Son récit mélange savamment la fiction, l'autobiographie, l'art du timing avec une bonne dose d'autodérision et d'humour typiquement "Brummie".
Comme l'a si bien dit Paul Weller : ça c'est du divertissement !
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To be published on Amazon France :
Il était une fois dans les West Midlands.
Birmingham, la "ville aux mille métiers", est injustement méconnue du grand public car elle traîne une réputation de jungle de béton où, pour citer Paul Weller (le grand parolier de The Jam et The Style Council dont les textes semblent écrire et décrire la vie de Stephen l'auteur et Steve le narrateur) "le rêve de l'urbaniste a mal tourné". Que nenni ! Steve adore Birmingham, il y est né, y vit, cela lui arrive même d'y passer ses vacances, et il commence par "la plus longue phrase jamais publiée dans un livre" pour répondre, un peu à la manière du Front Populaire de Judée dans Monty Python: La Vie de Brian, à la question "Qu'est-ce que Birmingham a donné au monde ?" Vous voilà renseigné !
Birmingham est plutôt la ville aux mille magouilles pour Steve, né l'année où Dr Martin Luther King Jr a prononcé son célèbre discours "I have a Dream". Ses "rêves d'enfant" (coucou Paul Weller !) sont rapidement brisés par la dure réalité des rues d'Aston, quartier mythique aux odeurs âpres émanant de l'usine HP Sauce où joue Aston Villa, son amour de toujours. C'est ici que Steve s'initie à la vie d'arnaqueur, fréquente des hooligans et des voyous et vit au rythme de la culture "Mod" avant de tomber amoureuse d'une belle antillaise, avec les conséquences tragiques évoquées dans le prologue.
Birmingham, à travers Stephen Pennell, possède désormais une authentique voix. Son récit mélange savamment la fiction, l'autobiographie, l'art du timing avec une bonne dose d'autodérision et d'humour typiquement "Brummie".
Comme l'a si bien dit Paul Weller : ça c'est du divertissement !
Cheers Darren, clocked it. And I managed to suss out google translate too!
Once upon a time in the West Midlands
Birmingham, the "city of a thousand trades", is unfairly unknown to the general public because it has a reputation as a concrete jungle where, to quote Paul Weller (the great lyricist of The Jam and The Style Council whose texts seem to write and describe the life of Stephen the author and Steve the narrator) "the town planner's dream has gone wrong". Nay! Steve loves Birmingham, he was born there, lives there, he even happens to spend his vacations there, and he begins with "the longest sentence ever published in a book" to answer, a bit like the Popular Front of Judea in Monty Python: The Life of Brian, to the question "What has Birmingham given to the world?" You are well informed!
Birmingham is rather the city of a thousand shenanigans for Steve, born in the year that Dr Martin Luther King Jr gave his famous "I have a Dream" speech. His "childhood dreams" (hi Paul Weller!) Are quickly shattered by the harsh reality of the streets of Aston, a mythical district with bitter smells emanating from the HP Sauce factory where Aston Villa, his lifelong love, plays. It is here that Steve learns about the life of a scammer, frequents hooligans and thugs and lives to the rhythm of "Mod" culture before falling in love with a beautiful Caribbean, with the tragic consequences mentioned in the prologue .
Birmingham, through Stephen Pennell, now has an authentic voice. His story skilfully mixes fiction, autobiography, the art of timing with a good dose of self-mockery and typical "Brummie" humor.
As Paul Weller said so well: this is entertainment!
Thanks so much for the beautiful and kind words old pal.
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That Google translate seems to suggest that Aston Villa actually play at the HP Sauce factory.
*Heads in open goal* Well we do often play like we're running through a vat of thick, spicy condiment, ho ho etc.
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We were playing ketchup for most of last season though we were in the brown stuff right up until the last game..
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H&Vs top boy has his say:
https://www.google.com/amp/thebirminghampress.com/2020/08/review-gangsters-geezers-mods/amp/?fbclid=IwAR3LcywdSxwMFMSorHch_PHXAm_JsaW3AULBVh4IvMy_1PC7qiWV-v3teEg
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Hey, look Perce: it's good, so none of this false modesty and embarrassed titterings ;D
I've recommended to several people on the basis I enjoyed it and reviewed it, ans I don;t do that lightly ;) ;D
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Hey, look Perce: it's good, so none of this false modesty and embarrassed titterings ;D
I've recommended to several people on the basis I enjoyed it and reviewed it, ans I don;t do that lightly ;) ;D
Bless you mate. No false modesty, I’m just chuffed to bits that people like it. I’ve been in my own world with it for years thinking ‘I think it’s good, but is it shit?’
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H&Vs top boy has his say:
https://www.google.com/amp/thebirminghampress.com/2020/08/review-gangsters-geezers-mods/amp/?fbclid=IwAR3LcywdSxwMFMSorHch_PHXAm_JsaW3AULBVh4IvMy_1PC7qiWV-v3teEg
origin error
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H&Vs top boy has his say:
https://www.google.com/amp/thebirminghampress.com/2020/08/review-gangsters-geezers-mods/amp/?fbclid=IwAR3LcywdSxwMFMSorHch_PHXAm_JsaW3AULBVh4IvMy_1PC7qiWV-v3teEg
origin error
Shit and I thought that was sorted.
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Enjoy... and thanks for all the practice:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B08CSNS2K7/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=gangsters%2C+geezers+and+mods&qid=1594490479&sr=8-1
If any of you are kind enough to buy it, please leave a review if you enjoy it. If you don’t, don’t bother!
Just got mine. I'll let you know-two books in front at the moment.
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Enjoy... and thanks for all the practice:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B08CSNS2K7/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=gangsters%2C+geezers+and+mods&qid=1594490479&sr=8-1
If any of you are kind enough to buy it, please leave a review if you enjoy it. If you don’t, don’t bother!
Just got mine. I'll let you know-two books in front at the moment.
Much appreciated mate.
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H&Vs top boy has his say:
https://www.google.com/amp/thebirminghampress.com/2020/08/review-gangsters-geezers-mods/amp/?fbclid=IwAR3LcywdSxwMFMSorHch_PHXAm_JsaW3AULBVh4IvMy_1PC7qiWV-v3teEg
origin error
Shit and I thought that was sorted.
Works for me.
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Got about 20 pages left but it’s on the babbies kindle and I left it at home. It’s been a triumph so far mate, I’ll get on he reviews once finished.
-
Any news on a traditional paper version ?
-
H&Vs top boy has his say:
https://www.google.com/amp/thebirminghampress.com/2020/08/review-gangsters-geezers-mods/amp/?fbclid=IwAR3LcywdSxwMFMSorHch_PHXAm_JsaW3AULBVh4IvMy_1PC7qiWV-v3teEg
origin error
Shit and I thought that was sorted.
Works for me.
I think Chicago is pulling legs.
Any chance you could do an audio of the book Percy through Audible or similar? I'm more likely to listen than to read a book these days.
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H&Vs top boy has his say:
https://www.google.com/amp/thebirminghampress.com/2020/08/review-gangsters-geezers-mods/amp/?fbclid=IwAR3LcywdSxwMFMSorHch_PHXAm_JsaW3AULBVh4IvMy_1PC7qiWV-v3teEg
origin error
Shit and I thought that was sorted.
Works for me.
I think Chicago is pulling legs.
Any chance you could do an audio of the book Percy through Audible or similar? I'm more likely to listen than to read a book these days.
I ain’t got a clue how to go about it mate.
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Bren’d - still can’t reply to your messages. Pm your number and I’ll text you mine.
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Hey, look Perce: it's good, so none of this false modesty and embarrassed titterings ;D
I've recommended to several people on the basis I enjoyed it and reviewed it, ans I don;t do that lightly ;) ;D
Bless you mate. No false modesty, I’m just chuffed to bits that people like it. I’ve been in my own world with it for years thinking ‘I think it’s good, but is it shit?’
Yes; well done!
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Cheers Nev!
5.0 out of 5 starsVerified Purchase
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 11 August 2020
A rattling good read
To describe a book that has numerous crime and violence references as comfortably familiar may seem odd but then it's the cultural and local content that are a crucial part of this gritty, humorous and fast paced story of one mans experience in the Second City. There is no time for reflection and consideration or to steer a path through a moral maze, this rattles along at breakneck speed through the back streets, main streets and mean streets of both the location and the recollections and imagination of the authors mind. It's a dizzying journey that needs to be experienced in one sitting with no distractions until it finishes abrubtly, leaving the reader feeling bereft and wanting more. That is no bad thing at all.
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Enjoy... and thanks for all the practice:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B08CSNS2K7/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=gangsters%2C+geezers+and+mods&qid=1594490479&sr=8-1
If any of you are kind enough to buy it, please leave a review if you enjoy it. If you don’t, don’t bother!
Just finished the book and I must say I really enjoyed it. I'm not really a book person in fact it's been years since I last read one. Left a review and give it 5 stars!
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Enjoy... and thanks for all the practice:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B08CSNS2K7/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=gangsters%2C+geezers+and+mods&qid=1594490479&sr=8-1
If any of you are kind enough to buy it, please leave a review if you enjoy it. If you don’t, don’t bother!
Just finished the book and I must say I really enjoyed it. I'm not really a book person in fact it's been years since I last read one. Left a review and give it 5 stars!
Thanks mate. Much appreciated.
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Have you stopped reading your PMs?
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Have you stopped reading your PMs?
No mate, but I still can’t reply to yours!
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Bren’d - still can’t reply to your messages. Pm your number and I’ll text you mine.
Did you see this Bren?
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Got about 20 pages left but it’s on the babbies kindle and I left it at home. It’s been a triumph so far mate, I’ll get on he reviews once finished.
Nice one Lee!
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Any news on a traditional paper version ?
Working on it Chris.
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Just bought it. Looking forward to reading it.
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Just bought it. Looking forward to reading it.
Thanks mate, hope you enjoy it.
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Loved it. I left a review on amazon
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Loved it. I left a review on amazon
Thanks mate, much appreciated.
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Loved it. I left a review on amazon
Thanks mate, much appreciated.
This isn’t you by any chance is it lol?
m J Spiby
Awful.
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 28 August 2020
Poorly written. Author obviously has a chip on shoulder.
A progressive, no doubt.
On my birthday as well!
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I've bought this. Won't be able to read it for a while as I've got other stuff on the go, but will review it when I do.
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Loved it. I left a review on amazon
Thanks mate, much appreciated.
This isn’t you by any chance is it lol?
m J Spiby
Awful.
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 28 August 2020
Poorly written. Author obviously has a chip on shoulder.
A progressive, no doubt.
On my birthday as well!
Personal comments not a review. Everyone report it so it gets taken down.
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And happy birthday, mate.
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And happy birthday, mate.
Thanks Stu.
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I've bought this. Won't be able to read it for a while as I've got other stuff on the go, but will review it when I do.
Thanks Chris.
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Loved it. I left a review on amazon
Thanks mate, much appreciated.
This isn’t you by any chance is it lol?
m J Spiby
Awful.
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 28 August 2020
Poorly written. Author obviously has a chip on shoulder.
A progressive, no doubt.
On my birthday as well!
absolutely not
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Loved it. I left a review on amazon
Thanks mate, much appreciated.
This isn’t you by any chance is it lol?
m J Spiby
Awful.
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 28 August 2020
Poorly written. Author obviously has a chip on shoulder.
A progressive, no doubt.
On my birthday as well!
What a twat!
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I can't see that review on Amazon mate, has it been taken down? I can see 15 reviews, all of which are positive.
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You should see what someone wrote about my books - after they'd been out of print for ten years. There are some very silly banned posters around.
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I can't see that review on Amazon mate, has it been taken down? I can see 15 reviews, all of which are positive.
Same for me
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It must have been taken down. Probably thanks to some of us lot, so thanks. I wasn’t upset or anything - I might have been if it was the first one!
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Loved it. I left a review on amazon
Thanks mate, much appreciated.
This isn’t you by any chance is it lol?
m J Spiby
Awful.
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 28 August 2020
Poorly written. Author obviously has a chip on shoulder.
A progressive, no doubt.
On my birthday as well!
absolutely not
Bless you murfee, I was only kidding.
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You should see what someone wrote about my books - after they'd been out of print for ten years. There are some very silly banned posters around.
I wonder who? I can think of two main suspects. And I’m still not sure exactly what they got so upset about.
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Just downloaded it Percy. Looking forward to a good read. Cheers Dorset Villa
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Just downloaded it Percy. Looking forward to a good read. Cheers Dorset Villa
Cheers mate.
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Apologies for repeating myself Dorset, but all good reviews welcome!
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Of course. Started it last night. All good so far!!
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Just bought it - saving it for my holiday in a few weeks
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Just bought it - saving it for my holiday in a few weeks
Nice one Hookey, appreciate it mate.
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Now available as a paperback, same price. PM me or contact me through twitter @StephenPennell2 or Facebook https://m.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100015812376839
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Now available as a paperback, same price. PM me or contact me through twitter @StephenPennell2 or Facebook https://m.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100015812376839
Messaged you on Facebook Percy .
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Paperback landed today - thanks Perce. Looking forward to reading.
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Paperback landed today - thanks Perce. Looking forward to reading.
You’re welcome mate, thanks for your support. Much appreciated.
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Thank you Percy..hand posted by East Birmingham's literacy whizz. Was reading an autobiography of Ray Charles but I had a gander .... And I can't put it down!! Reminds me of a time that I don't fully recall but I know I lived through.
It's the second book of Percy's I own... and they're both Villa-lit essential. Assuming it's a trilogy??
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Thank you Percy..hand posted by East Birmingham's literacy whizz. Was reading an autobiography of Ray Charles but I had a gander .... And I can't put it down!! Reminds me of a time that I don't fully recall but I know I lived through.
It's the second book of Percy's I own... and they're both Villa-lit essential. Assuming it's a trilogy??
Hmmm... I dunno. Took a lot out of me that one!
Thanks for your kind words mate.
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Listen out for me on awaydays radio, I’m sure you’re all avid listeners.
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Picked it up yesterday - and couldn’t put it down until I’d finished. Outstanding. Well done Perce - loved it.
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Picked it up yesterday - and couldn’t put it down until I’d finished. Outstanding. Well done Perce - loved it.
Bless you mate. And thanks for swapping those Weller tickets for that review all those years ago. As the great man himself once said on some blisteringly brilliant b-side he wrote... ‘the match that started my fire’.
So it’s all credit to you/all your fault*
*delete as applicable.
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5.0 out of 5 starsVerified Purchase
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 25 September 2020
Cracking Read
What a cracking read.
I’m not really a reader, I just can’t seem to stay focused enough to finish them.
But I knew I had a holiday coming up, and after a conversation with Steve on the bus, I seen this was now available, so decided I would have this to read whilst on holiday.
Well I must say I loved it, the life story of the protagonist from the early years to ‘The End’ had me enthralled.
Probably the quickest I’ve ever read a book, had me laughing at some of the antics he got up to.
Would recommend this book to anybody.
Hopefully there will be more from Steve to come
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Received a copy in the post today (thanks Percy).
Going to start reading it tonight.
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Received a copy in the post today (thanks Percy).
Going to start reading it tonight.
Phew, that’s a relief. Thank you for your kindness mate.
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Where do you start with reviewing this book?
The chapters about growing up in Birmingham in the 1960/70's were brilliant and took me back to my own childhood. The 20 a side games of football, trying to recreate your heroes (mine was He who walks on water), the subbuteo leagues and even sneakily stealing sweets from the corner shop. All brought memories flooding back and the stories were very well told.
As the book progressed it was interesting trying to work out what was real and what was fictional, a great part of the fun of reading the book (hope it isn't a confession in disguise ;D).
All in all, the book was brilliant and like others have said I couldn't put it down until I had finished it.
I would recommend anyone who grew up in the 1970's in England, come from Birmingham or is a Villa fan to buy it.
Brilliant read Percy.
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Where do you start with reviewing this book?
The chapters about growing up in Birmingham in the 1960/70's were brilliant and took me back to my own childhood. The 20 a side games of football, trying to recreate your heroes (mine was He who walks on water), the subbuteo leagues and even sneakily stealing sweets from the corner shop. All brought memories flooding back and the stories were very well told.
As the book progressed it was interesting trying to work out what was real and what was fictional, a great part of the fun of reading the book (hope it isn't a confession in disguise ;D).
All in all, the book was brilliant and like others have said I couldn't put it down until I had finished it.
I would recommend anyone who grew up in the 1970's in England, come from Birmingham or is a Villa fan to buy it.
Brilliant read Percy.
Thanks mate, very kind of you. I really appreciate the support.
It’s nearly all true, just rearranged and a few people disguised.
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Percy,
My wife kindly bought me this book in paperback.
I really enjoyed it, a great read. As a Villa fan for almost 50 years, but also having seen The Jam and Paul Weller numerous times, the main character really resonated with me. A real blueprint for youth culture alongside a journey into the sinister underworld of Birmingham at that time.
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Percy,
My wife kindly bought me this book in paperback.
I really enjoyed it, a great read. As a Villa fan for almost 50 years, but also having seen The Jam and Paul Weller numerous times, the main character really resonated with me. A real blueprint for youth culture alongside a journey into the sinister underworld of Birmingham at that time.
Very nice of you to say mate, glad you enjoyed it.
I remember sending one to Kent. Thanks for your support, and say thanks to your very perceptive wife from me too.
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Just a nudge for everyone who bought the paperback - you can leave amazon reviews too!
😊
-
Podcast booked with Paul Collins (the Gabbie Cabbie) in a couple of weeks.
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Where do you start with reviewing this book?
The chapters about growing up in Birmingham in the 1960/70's were brilliant and took me back to my own childhood. The 20 a side games of football, trying to recreate your heroes (mine was He who walks on water), the subbuteo leagues and even sneakily stealing sweets from the corner shop. All brought memories flooding back and the stories were very well told.
As the book progressed it was interesting trying to work out what was real and what was fictional, a great part of the fun of reading the book (hope it isn't a confession in disguise ;D).
All in all, the book was brilliant and like others have said I couldn't put it down until I had finished it.
I would recommend anyone who grew up in the 1970's in England, come from Birmingham or is a Villa fan to buy it.
Brilliant read Percy.
Thanks mate, very kind of you. I really appreciate the support.
It’s nearly all true, just rearranged and a few people disguised.
I was hoping Roots the Chemist was real until I realised it was an actual chemist on Trinity Rd. Also the crab in the bag has to be true, you can’t make that stuff up!
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Where do you start with reviewing this book?
The chapters about growing up in Birmingham in the 1960/70's were brilliant and took me back to my own childhood. The 20 a side games of football, trying to recreate your heroes (mine was He who walks on water), the subbuteo leagues and even sneakily stealing sweets from the corner shop. All brought memories flooding back and the stories were very well told.
As the book progressed it was interesting trying to work out what was real and what was fictional, a great part of the fun of reading the book (hope it isn't a confession in disguise ;D).
All in all, the book was brilliant and like others have said I couldn't put it down until I had finished it.
I would recommend anyone who grew up in the 1970's in England, come from Birmingham or is a Villa fan to buy it.
Brilliant read Percy.
Thanks mate, very kind of you. I really appreciate the support.
It’s nearly all true, just rearranged and a few people disguised.
I was hoping Roots the Chemist was real until I realised it was an actual chemist on Trinity Rd. Also the crab in the bag has to be true, you can’t make that stuff up!
Haha! I was wondering when someone would spot that. But some of the Roots stories are true, even the most outrageous one.
The crab is true too. And the geezer responsible.
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Just bought it - saving it for my holiday in a few weeks
Nice one Hookey, appreciate it mate.
Here in corfu and demolished in 2 reads. Thouroughly entertaining.
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Just bought it - saving it for my holiday in a few weeks
Nice one Hookey, appreciate it mate.
Here in corfu and demolished in 2 reads. Thouroughly entertaining.
Cheers mate. Feel free to post that on Amazon 😉
(Sorry to bang on, but some clown gave it 1-star rating yesterday. One of my Blues mates said it was probably a bitter Blues fan or Baggy’s family).
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Fantastic review in The Indiependent:
https://www.indiependent.co.uk/book-review-gangsters-geezers-mods-stephen-pennell/?fbclid=IwAR0E-pZkTFKXgIGzk6fEsUt__63bX-F3yBkUTJi8jvd7bvXxEm2KOP_zTfI
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That is some review
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That is some review
Yeah, chuffed with it.
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My BBF (best Blues friend) Paddy phoned earlier to order another book for his mate. He provided more stories for the book than anyone except some of the main characters. He told me he was reading it on holiday when a wasp came buzzing round and he went to hit it with the book. Instead he hit himself above the eye with the corner of the book and drew a fair bit of blood. I said “Bloody hell, I hope reading it doesn’t upset you any more than it already has.”
He said “No, no, I’ve read it, I enjoyed it. I just didn’t think it would be so violent”.
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Richard Whitehead, author of the wonderful Children of the Revolution, formerly deputy books editor at The Times, and more recently assistant editor of Wisden Cricketers Almanac, writes on Amazon:
“I first came across Stephen Pennell's writing years ago in the Villa fanzine Heroes and Villains and admired his work then - now he's truly delivered on that potential.
This book is a remarkable alliance of fiction and memoir, done so skillfully that you are left wondering exactly what is true and what isn't. Having checked with Steve, I have discovered that much of it is true - he's certainly had a livelier life than me!
Here is a slice of a tough working-class Brummie life rooted in a love of the Villa, but also with a devotion to Mod culture and a great deal of crime - some of it petty, some not so much. The hero's love life also forms a continuing strand of the narrative.
Highly recommended for lovers of the second city, the Villa, Paul Weller - and anyone who just likes a really well-written book.“
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I'm saving it till next week Percy when I am recovering from my knee replacement. You'll be in good company as I'll be reading it alongside 'The Life of Nikloaus Pevsner'.
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I'm saving it till next week Percy when I am recovering from my knee replacement. You'll be in good company as I'll be reading it alongside 'The Life of Nikloaus Pevsner'.
Nice one Bren. I won’t take up much of your time.
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s Hempstock
5.0 out of 5 starsVerified Purchase
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 17 October 2020
Hilariously funny
Really enjoyed reading this book, even though I’m not a huge football fan. There a little bit for every one, that they can relate to especially if you had grown up in the 70s . The author made it incredibly hilarious and found my self laughing at every turn of the page. The book has given me inspiration to write my own book . Well done Stephen Pennell.
Unbeaten still since it came out. Well done indeed.
You’re welcome.
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Percy is the paperback available on Amazon ? I can only see kindle version.
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Percy is the paperback available on Amazon ? I can only see kindle version.
Are you on Facebook or Twitter Franky? If so find me on there and I’ll sort you out. The book has its own page on fb or search Stephen Pennell, or @StephenPennell2 on twitter, or PM me your address on here and I’ll send you one.
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Percy is the paperback available on Amazon ? I can only see kindle version.
Are you on Facebook or Twitter Franky? If so find me on there and I’ll sort you out. The book has its own page on fb or search Stephen Pennell, or @StephenPennell2 on twitter, or PM me your address on here and I’ll send you one.
Percy I don't do any social media gubbins ! Sent you a PM
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Percy is the paperback available on Amazon ? I can only see kindle version.
Are you on Facebook or Twitter Franky? If so find me on there and I’ll sort you out. The book has its own page on fb or search Stephen Pennell, or @StephenPennell2 on twitter, or PM me your address on here and I’ll send you one.
Percy I don't do any social media gubbins ! Sent you a PM
PM replied to 👍
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Percy is the paperback available on Amazon ? I can only see kindle version.
Are you on Facebook or Twitter Franky? If so find me on there and I’ll sort you out. The book has its own page on fb or search Stephen Pennell, or @StephenPennell2 on twitter, or PM me your address on here and I’ll send you one.
Percy I don't do any social media gubbins ! Sent you a PM
PM replied to 👍
Nice one , all done.
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Franky - check messages again.
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Done
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Sorted 👍
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Fantastic review in The Indiependent:
https://www.indiependent.co.uk/book-review-gangsters-geezers-mods-stephen-pennell/?fbclid=IwAR0E-pZkTFKXgIGzk6fEsUt__63bX-F3yBkUTJi8jvd7bvXxEm2KOP_zTfI
Great review that. You must be chuffed mate.
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Fantastic review in The Indiependent:
https://www.indiependent.co.uk/book-review-gangsters-geezers-mods-stephen-pennell/?fbclid=IwAR0E-pZkTFKXgIGzk6fEsUt__63bX-F3yBkUTJi8jvd7bvXxEm2KOP_zTfI
Great review that. You must be chuffed mate.
I am indeed mate.
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Fantastic review in The Indiependent:
https://www.indiependent.co.uk/book-review-gangsters-geezers-mods-stephen-pennell/?fbclid=IwAR0E-pZkTFKXgIGzk6fEsUt__63bX-F3yBkUTJi8jvd7bvXxEm2KOP_zTfI
Great review that. You must be chuffed mate.
I am indeed mate.
My copy came through the letter box this morning....Cheers
Hope i enjoy!!
I ordered via Twitter....
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Fantastic review in The Indiependent:
https://www.indiependent.co.uk/book-review-gangsters-geezers-mods-stephen-pennell/?fbclid=IwAR0E-pZkTFKXgIGzk6fEsUt__63bX-F3yBkUTJi8jvd7bvXxEm2KOP_zTfI
Great review that. You must be chuffed mate.
I am indeed mate.
My copy came through the letter box this morning....Cheers
Hope i enjoy!!
I ordered via Twitter....
Glad to hear it arrived safe mate, thanks for your support. It’s doing really well purely on word-of-mouth recommendations so feel free to review and/or tell your friends about it. (Unless you think it’s shit).
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Review on Facebook:
“I’m pretty well read and I don’t recommend it lightly. It’s a Catcher In The Rye, To Kill A Mockingbird for me, even though he loves Weller”.
😊
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The venerable Professor Carl Chinn commenting on Dave’s review:
“Congratulations, Steve. A cracking review of what will become a must-read working-class novel of Birmingham's most difficult 20th-century decades. Written with insight, understanding and grit, it deserves a wide audience.”
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From Goodreads:
Dave Scrivens rated a book “It was amazing”
6 days ago
Gangsters, Geezers and Mods by Stephen Pennell
Gangsters, Geezers and Mods
by Stephen Pennell
Want to Read
“I recently read, Gangsters, Geezers and Mods by Stephen Pennell. I did it in one sitting as I couldn’t put it down. The introduction alone (the longest sentence in a book) made me brim with pride to be a Brummie. By chapter two, I’d welled up and laughed out loud which became a theme throughout. The factual parts become so mixed with the imagination of Pennell’s genius I found it hard to distinguish between the lines. Growing up in B6 (Witton not Aston, a big deal if you grew up there 🤣) I related to so much of this book that, for me, it’s a Catcher in the Rye or To Kill a Mockingbird, maybe even Kes. A really gritty, down to earth drama that touched my very soul. If you’re not a great reader of books then this one is the one to truly test you. It’s fun, it’s emotional and it truly hits the mark to the working class of the Birmingham that I relate to and have always loved. Kudos, Pennell. You broke my heart and fixed it again several times during this book. Also has a twist that you think you see coming but don’t. Can’t praise it enough.
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That's a great review Percy. 8)
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That's a great review Percy. 8)
Fantastic. Still waiting for Lee B’s and Dorset Villlain’s 😉
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Done a podcast so you can hear how posh I am in real life.
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=2813845732186048&id=100006819459466¬if_t=feedback_reaction_generic_tagged¬if_id=1604414181461079&ref=m_notif
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Done a podcast so you can hear how posh I am in real life.
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=2813845732186048&id=100006819459466¬if_t=feedback_reaction_generic_tagged¬if_id=1604414181461079&ref=m_notif
Hey! I leant you that Twang CD!
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Done a podcast so you can hear how posh I am in real life.
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=2813845732186048&id=100006819459466¬if_t=feedback_reaction_generic_tagged¬if_id=1604414181461079&ref=m_notif
Hey! I leant you that Twang CD!
Haha! The bloke who did has to now a) listen to this podcast, and b) remember lending me the album, for me to upset him. I’m quite relaxed about it.
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I listened to the podcast Percy. You came across very well in it. re: the book I don’t have kindle and live in Aus, so haven’t got a copy. If there’s another way I can get a paper copy online I’ll happily do it and pay postage etc. I’d like a read of it.
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Just finished reading it. It's a cracker. I wasn't part of that scene, I was a scarfer from the suburbs, but there was no way you could have been a Villa fan back then and not have heard the tales or witnessed the aftermath!
I'll leave a review on Amazon in a bit, but a bit disappointed you didn't sign my copy like you promised.
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Just finished reading it. It's a cracker. I wasn't part of that scene, I was a scarfer from the suburbs, but there was no way you could have been a Villa fan back then and not have heard the tales or witnessed the aftermath!
I'll leave a review on Amazon in a bit, but a bit disappointed you didn't sign my copy like you promised.
Thanks for your kind words and I look forward to your Amazon review.
And sorry about the signing, DM on twitter.
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I listened to the podcast Percy. You came across very well in it. re: the book I don’t have kindle and live in Aus, so haven’t got a copy. If there’s another way I can get a paper copy online I’ll happily do it and pay postage etc. I’d like a read of it.
Have you got Facebook mate?
Or you could e-mail me and I’ll send you one. JD got his in NZ okay.
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Done a podcast so you can hear how posh I am in real life.
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=2813845732186048&id=100006819459466¬if_t=feedback_reaction_generic_tagged¬if_id=1604414181461079&ref=m_notif
Great podcast Percy, just had the time to listen to it all. The new book sounds interesting.
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Done a podcast so you can hear how posh I am in real life.
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=2813845732186048&id=100006819459466¬if_t=feedback_reaction_generic_tagged¬if_id=1604414181461079&ref=m_notif
Great podcast Percy, just had the time to listen to it all. The new book sounds interesting.
Cheers mate. You’re in that one as well.
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Just finished reading my copy and I must say how much I enjoyed it. It is funny, poignant and at times made me stop and think. Also knowing some of the people mentioned within sparked some of my own memories into life. A GREAT READ!!!
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Just finished reading my copy and I must say how much I enjoyed it. It is funny, poignant and at times made me stop and think. Also knowing some of the people mentioned within sparked some of my own memories into life. A GREAT READ!!!
Cheers B. Glad you enjoyed it mate. Tell your friends!
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Another great review from someone of this parish - thanks very much for your support. I’ll leave it to them if they want to own up/take the credit:
5.0 out of 5 starsVerified Purchase
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 8 November 2020
Friends, Footie and Fighting = Fun
An excellent read. I’m not from Birmingham and have only spent one year of my life there, but I roamed the city a lot and this story brings my memories to life. All aspects of the protagonists life; growing, football, love, crime, music, friends is documented in a witty and flowing narrative. It has an episodic feel to it with each chapter focussing on one of these aspects which does not interrupt the flow. It would be great filmed in that manner!
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FAO: gordoncowansisthegreatest - PM sent👍
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Cheers Percy, Cash and detail forwarded.
Looking forward to a good read.
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“Anyone who says owt negative about this book needs to take their face for a shit. It’s a masterpiece from start to finish”.
Leeds fan on Facebook.
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Bloody hell! £15!
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Star-spangled-Villans-Steve-Pennell/dp/0954388461/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=star-spangled+villans&qid=1605805065&sr=8-1
Talk about halo sales!
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“Anyone who says owt negative about this book needs to take their face for a shit. It’s a masterpiece from start to finish”.
Leeds fan on Facebook.
Is that one of Wilde's?
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“Anyone who says owt negative about this book needs to take their face for a shit. It’s a masterpiece from start to finish”.
Leeds fan on Facebook.
Is that one of Wilde's?
Haha you’re back, the man to whom I owe it all, and hasn’t even claimed his free one.
George Bernard Shaw I think.
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The only freebies we're allowed at the Beeb are pearls of wisdom from the Book of Dom, although you have to be called Laura to claim them. Glad it's going well for you. You deserve it.
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The only freebies we're allowed at the Beeb are pearls of wisdom from the Book of Dom, although you have to be called Laura to claim them. Glad it's going well for you. You deserve it.
Thanks for everything mate.
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It’s been pirated, found a site offering free bloody downloads. Can’t complain I suppose, given some of the subject matter. I love the description on there though:
“An account of standing up to dread and misfortune and dimness and attempting to discover reclamation in doing what one knows needs to be finished.”
They even suggested a ‘better’ alternate title - The Boy Who Lived. Cheeky bastards.
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It’s been pirated, found a site offering free bloody downloads. Can’t complain I suppose, given some of the subject matter. I love the description on there though:
“An account of standing up to dread and misfortune and dimness and attempting to discover reclamation in doing what one knows needs to be finished.”
They even suggested a ‘better’ alternate title - The Boy Who Lived. Cheeky bastards.
Get your legal people onto them.
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It’s been pirated, found a site offering free bloody downloads. Can’t complain I suppose, given some of the subject matter. I love the description on there though:
“An account of standing up to dread and misfortune and dimness and attempting to discover reclamation in doing what one knows needs to be finished.”
They even suggested a ‘better’ alternate title - The Boy Who Lived. Cheeky bastards.
Get your legal people onto them.
If only I had some.
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Influential supermod Maz Weller (great name) has her say:
“Once I picked it up, I couldn’t put it down, it captures you from the beginning. It covers football, drugs, drink, growing up, racists, morals, music and passions, it made me laugh and cry and I warmed to every character in the book. The writer has a magical way of making you feel you’ve actually met the characters. Beautifully written, a must-read book.”
And she hates football.
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Blues fan is she...
How many pages in paperback is it Percy?
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Blues fan is she...
How many pages in paperback is it Percy?
Haha, no. Just over a hundred but it’s an unusually sized book. It would be about 130 if it was A5. 42k words. 3hr 2min read for ‘normal’ readers according to Amazon.
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Thank you.
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Carl Chinn’s verdict:
https://counteract.co/features/book-review-gangsters-geezers-and-mods-a-working-class-tale-from-aston/?fbclid=IwAR0mzGMEaDvi79i7rmvQG6SKqNmQ-w9Mw_v1-8BYpOViI5pwHAdTf6jx7aw
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Carl Chinn’s verdict:
https://counteract.co/features/book-review-gangsters-geezers-and-mods-a-working-class-tale-from-aston/?fbclid=IwAR0mzGMEaDvi79i7rmvQG6SKqNmQ-w9Mw_v1-8BYpOViI5pwHAdTf6jx7aw
That's quite a resounding endorsement from Carl and I can't disagree with a word of it. He's a good un is Carl.
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Carl Chinn’s verdict:
https://counteract.co/features/book-review-gangsters-geezers-and-mods-a-working-class-tale-from-aston/?fbclid=IwAR0mzGMEaDvi79i7rmvQG6SKqNmQ-w9Mw_v1-8BYpOViI5pwHAdTf6jx7aw
That's quite a resounding endorsement from Carl and I can't disagree with a word of it. He's a good un is Carl.
Thanks. He did me proud.
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I can’t comment on the authenticity of the book’s representation of the Birmingham working class, as I’m from the Shires (Nuneaton) with my Range Rover and moated mansion. Cracking read though, very entertaining. Some funny little tales of scams that made me chuckle. The characters seemed well crafted and genuine. Carl described it as semi-autobiographical. Was scratching my head in places wondering is this real or fiction. Great stocking filler for any Villa supporting relatives at Christmas.
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I can’t comment on the authenticity of the book’s representation of the Birmingham working class, as I’m from the Shires (Nuneaton) with my Range Rover and moated mansion. Cracking read though, very entertaining. Some funny little tales of scams that made me chuckle. The characters seemed well crafted and genuine. Carl described it as semi-autobiographical. Was scratching my head in places wondering is this real or fiction. Great stocking filler for any Villa supporting relatives at Christmas.
Cheers Robbo, glad you enjoyed it, and thanks for buying the premium version.😉
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I told my cousin in St Kitts to read it. Had this back yesterday “ 46% in, haven’t laughed so much in the whole of 2020,tears running down my face, brilliant.”. I think he’s enjoying it.
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I told my cousin in St Kitts to read it. Had this back yesterday “ 46% in, haven’t laughed so much in the whole of 2020,tears running down my face, brilliant.”. I think he’s enjoying it.
Haha brilliant, thanks for posting that Chris, glad he’s enjoying it, See if you can get him to put that on Amazon 😬
If I can cope with the technology I’m on Brum Radio talking about it at about 3.40pm with Adrian Goldberg. I’m listening to the show now, he’s played some brilliant records so far. 2 Clash, 2 Elvis Costello. And he’ll be playing two extra brilliant records while I’m on😉
Search for ‘Brum Radio listen live’ if you fancy it.
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Well, that was proper amateur hour by me. Oh well. I suppose I just prefer writing to live talking. You can edit writing. The laptop died. And then I thought it had died and it hadn’t. It’s so unnatural to me, I literally never use one.
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Well edited Adrian:
https://m.mixcloud.com/BrumRadio/adventures-in-music-with-adrian-goldberg-181220/
I’m on from about 32 minutes I think, but he plays some great tunes before that.
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Thoroughly enjoyed the book, Percy, and your interview. Brought back lots of memories about following our club in my youth (albeit a much more respectable one than that described in your novel).
(Out of interest have you read "Mayflies" by Andrew O'Hagan? The bond there is music and football is only flettingly mentioned... I thoroughly recommend it).
Congratulations on such positive reviews.
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Thoroughly enjoyed the book, Percy, and your interview. Brought back lots of memories about following our club in my youth (albeit a much more respectable one than that described in your novel).
(Out of interest have you read "Mayflies" by Andrew O'Hagan? The bond there is music and football is only flettingly mentioned... I thoroughly recommend it).
Congratulations on such positive reviews.
Thanks a million mate. I’ll look up Mayflies, cheers.
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I told my cousin in St Kitts to read it. Had this back yesterday “ 46% in, haven’t laughed so much in the whole of 2020,tears running down my face, brilliant.”. I think he’s enjoying it.
Haha brilliant, thanks for posting that Chris, glad he’s enjoying it, See if you can get him to put that on Amazon 😬
If I can cope with the technology I’m on Brum Radio talking about it at about 3.40pm with Adrian Goldberg. I’m listening to the show now, he’s played some brilliant records so far. 2 Clash, 2 Elvis Costello. And he’ll be playing two extra brilliant records while I’m on😉
Search for ‘Brum Radio listen live’ if you fancy it.
He posted on Amazon Chris, please pass on my thanks if you can.
Amazon reviews are highly appreciated and valued folks😉
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Text from my dad: 'Got book... a laugh every page, brilliant! The old geezer.'
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Text from my dad: 'Got book... a laugh every page, brilliant! The old geezer.'
Nice one Badders, congrats on your good taste in present buying.
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Woo-hoo, think I’ve got a publishing deal. More news to follow.
Just wanna say thanks to everyone who supported me from here.
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Woo-hoo, think I’ve got a publishing deal. More news to follow.
Just wanna say thanks to everyone who supported me from here.
Great news, congratulations
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Brilliant Percy. Much deserved and let's see the next batch of the fruit of your labour soon
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Cheers lads.
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Brilliant news, Percy!
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Great and exciting news Percy and well deserved.
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That’s great news
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Cheers Percy, fantastic read, 5* rating and review now left with Amazon. (Better late than never)
Just got the confirmation from Amazon and it's been posted under my daughters name!! Lucy E.
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Cheers Percy, fantastic read, 5* rating and review now left with Amazon. (Better late than never)
Just got the confirmation from Amazon and it's been posted under my daughters name!! Lucy E.
Ah yes, clocked that review, I loved it. Thanks a million mate.
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You're welcome, Looking forward to the sequel :)
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Got a real publisher from That London!
https://www.olddogbooks.net/shop/olddogbooks/gangsters-geezers-and-mods/?fbclid=IwAR3OkYdBlsvVFmtUyrAnLUGVfKHWRQ1nx-HDK-m0rPrFGNfENgegSDbVVCE
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Congrats mate.
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Congrats mate.
Cheers SE, and thanks for getting the ball rolling!
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I ordered mine yesterday can't wait to read it.
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I ordered mine yesterday can't wait to read it.
Thank you Darren, I really appreciate that mate.
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I know a lot of you don’t do Facebook, but I got great initial support from people on H&V so I’ll share this here as well. (There’s an extra chapter in the official new version).
Such a massive day for me today. Gangsters, Geezers and Mods , published by Old Dog Books. After years in the writing, it seems like yesterday that my beautiful, clever wife Kerri Pennell uploaded it onto kindle. Then it was over to you lot, who downloaded it in numbers, left sparkling reviews on Amazon, and made me think it was worth making a physical copy with my friend Mark Eagles. Months of making contact with old friends and new, fantastic readers who seemed to love the book, and a real privilege for me exchanging personal and meaningful messages with you all. With all your supportive posts, you created a buzz that brought the book to the attention of legends like Gavin Monaghan and Brian Travers of UB40, and Garry Bushell who put me in contact with Surrey Supermod Paul J Hallam and Old Dog Books. He took the time to read it, had faith in it and gave it a chance. And here we are. Thanks to each and every one of you who has supported this project, for every like, share, tweet and review. You made the story of Baggy, Rebecca (RIP), Roots The Chemist and Hands of Stone come to life, and my dream come true. This is your book. I can’t explain fully what it means to me or thank you all adequately, but that was my attempt.Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got a bit of dust in my eye.
https://www.olddogbooks.net/shop/olddogbooks/gangsters-geezers-and-mods/?fbclid=IwAR3OkYdBlsvVFmtUyrAnLUGVfKHWRQ1nx-HDK-m0rPrFGNfENgegSDbVVCE
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Percy it's a great book and you deserve all the accolades for it's ongoing success. Let's hope the next book gets the same credit and success.
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I've only ever read one book in my life that was Papillon by Henri Charriere which I found riveting but I've never done it since. My mom (yes mom not mum) always said I had the attention span of a gnat and I've managed to prove her right all these years. I did however download the book as it sounded right up my street (literally in some parts as it turns out)and I'm so glad I did. It's great and it deserves to be recognised.
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Spizzenergi put a pic of it on the ident for his radio show today. Didn’t talk about it though as the show was recorded before his book arrived.
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A lovely full review, expanded from his Amazon one, by Villa literature royalty:
“The best thing to come out of Birmingham since Jack Grealish”
https://www.kingcity.online/post/gangsters-grealish-mods