The novel features Jake Jackson and Chuckie Lurgan. The two buddies do not agree with the ideas and belief systems of Belfast. Chuckie is seen loitering around the residences of the working class in the city. He is optimistic that he would become successful. Indeed, Chuckie is involved in the dirty business of conning innocent people. For instance, he engages himself in a scam of selling dildos to women. He labels them Giant Dildo Refund because he knows women would feel nervous about depositing refund cheques in the bank. Chuckie falls in love with Max, a beautiful young girl from the U.S.
Nevertheless, Jake is a violent womanizer who makes a living in the despicable business of debt repossession. Although he is a hooligan, Jake stands out from other members of street gangs because he is educated. Jake’s conniving behavior makes him lose a girlfriend. The turn of events makes him lead a miserable life. However, he is introduced to Aoirghe, who is Max’s friend. Aoirghe loves political themes, but Jake does not like politics. Their relationship deteriorates, but eventually, they set a common ground to settle their political differences.
The violence in Belfast intensifies. A bomb blast kills seventeen people. Belfast is depicted as the city of predicaments. However, the narrators are determined to lead a happy life. The book is a hybrid of politics, conventions, and romance. The love displayed in the novel reflects that one of a young girl meeting a young boy. Both Jake and Chuckie experience obstacles in their love life, but eventually, they manage to settle with their lovers.
