Daniel Hall‘s debut novel, “It Was a Riot,” is a gripping story that explores identity, belonging, and most of all, the quest for familial acceptance.
It is set against the backdrop of 1980s London and follows the life of Edward “Eddy” Turner, from his boyhood to becoming a young gay man who struggles to come to terms with his sexuality, his turbulent relationship with his father, the Falklands War and the devastating AIDS crisis.
Strengths and Weaknesses of It Was A Riot
Hall’s writing stands out for its unflinching honesty. It captures the raw emotions and struggles of Eddy’s journey with remarkable depth and sensitivity.
The novel’s vivid descriptions of everything – feelings, places, the gritty realities of working-class life – are relatable; it has that ability to transport you, the reader, to a time and place that feels both familiar and distant.
Take for instance this paragraph:
Medical school had felt like a never-ending competition between every student. We couldn’t be happy about one another’s successes. We were too competitive, too ambitious, and too determined to be the best. However, in the Navy, teamwork was essential. I wasn’t trying to be the best, I was trying to work in tandem with others to make us all the best, and, more importantly, keep us all alive. This ethos of teamwork suited me well, as I’d always felt unworthy of individual glory. (Page 115).
At its heart, It Was a Riot is a story about Eddy’s unending yearning for his father’s approval and his struggle to reconcile his sexuality with his family’s expectations. Ironically, Eddy is portrayed as a person with a sort of “Messiah Complex.” He believes his sole purpose in life is to save everyone around him, even when it is clearly foolhardy and risky, especially as he needs help and healing, himself. Take for instance, this paragraph from the protest scene:
From the very beginning, it wasn’t a fair fight. They had shields and truncheons. We had nothing but our fists and signs. But that didn’t stop the crowd from rushing at the officers with all the force of a tidal wave. The current caught me in it, pushing me forward. I didn’t want to fight, but I wanted to help as many injured protestors as possible.
The novel also explores an important theme – the devastating impact of the AIDS crisis on the gay community, and, from a unique perspective, highlights the courage and resilience of those who faced discrimination and loss.
The novel’s ending, while bittersweet, is hopeful, suggesting that even in the darkest of times, love and compassion can endure.
Overall Impression and Recommendation
Released on June 28, 2024, It Was a Riot is a moving novel that will stay with you long after you have turned the last page. It is recommended for readers seeking historical fiction with a strong emotional core and an interest in the LGBTQ+ experience. A 3.5/5 Star.
Content Warnings: Death, Homophobia, Physical Violence.
Read our interview with the author, >>here<<