I included this with my books for October since I finished listening in the car on 11/1. My first Iain Banks!---because someone reviewed one and another recommended a few from him. It was gritty, mildly violent, reminded me of something like A Clockwork Orange or Trainspotting. The relationship dynamics were the best or most memorable aspect. Not much plot, is fine with me; more character-driven. It took place over a short amount of time.