Mr Salary

Happened upon this little gem appropriately enough in Hodges Figgis in Dublin. Having written a number of short stories myself, I enjoy the very rare treat to see someone so established dipping their own toes in the form. Rooney's inimitable style, sharp turns of phrase and intense dialogue honestly feel like they suit a short story even better than a full-length novel.

As you'd expect, there's not a quotation mark in sight, which, given the condensed action, can make it a slightly challenging read at times, but you'll probably want to re-read the entire thing right afterwards anyway, so what's re-reading a couple of lines here and there in the moment.