Of Wee Sweetie Mice and Men

''Of Wee Sweetie Mice and Men'' is Colin Bateman's second novel in the Dan Starkey series, published in 1996. The story follows journalist Dan Starkey as he shadows Irish heavyweight boxing champion Bobby "Fat Boy" McMaster during his preparation for a championship fight against Mike Tyson in New York. The plot centers on Starkey's dual mission to write McMaster's biography while investigating the kidnapping of the boxer's wife. Set against the backdrop of New York City and professional boxing, the narrative involves multiple hostile groups with grievances against McMaster. This crime thriller combines elements of sports writing, mystery, and Northern Irish cultural dynamics. Through humor and suspense, the novel explores themes of loyalty, ambition, and the complex relationship between violence inside and outside the boxing ring.

Readers say this crime comedy novel delivers humor but lacks the depth of Bateman's other works. Readers appreciated: - Fast-paced storytelling and laugh-out-loud moments - The absurd boxing match storyline - References to The Who's music woven throughout - Realistic depiction of tensions in Northern Ireland Common criticisms: - Too much slapstick compared to Bateman's usual dark humor - Main character Dan Starkey comes across as immature and less likable - Plot becomes convoluted in the second half - Boxing scenes feel unrealistic Ratings: Goodreads: 3.8/5 (126 ratings) Amazon UK: 4.2/5 (18 reviews) Amazon US: 3.9/5 (12 reviews) One reader noted: "Fun but forgettable - lacks the bite of Divorcing Jack." Another said: "The New York setting didn't work as well as Belfast for Bateman's style of comedy."

The Guards by Ken Bruen A disgraced Irish policeman works as a private investigator in Galway, mixing dark humor with crime investigation in a story that blends violence and wit.

Plugged by Eoin Colfer An Irish bouncer in New Jersey becomes entangled in a murder case that combines criminal escapades with sharp-tongued observations.

London Boulevard by Ken Bruen A fresh-from-prison Londoner attempts to go straight but gets pulled into criminal schemes in a story that balances crime drama with sardonic humor.

The Big O by Declan Burke A kidnapper and a robbery target find their paths crossing in Dublin through a series of interconnected criminal misadventures.

Dead I Well May Be by Adrian McKinty An Irish immigrant in New York enters the world of organized crime while maintaining his sense of dark humor and sharp observations.

🥊 The book was published during a pivotal era in Mike Tyson's career, shortly after his release from prison in 1995, reflecting the charged atmosphere of heavyweight boxing during that period. 📚 The Dan Starkey series features multiple standalone novels that can be read independently, with "Of Wee Sweetie Mice and Men" being the second installment following "Divorcing Jack." 🎭 Colin Bateman originally worked as a journalist in Northern Ireland, lending authenticity to his portrayal of protagonist Dan Starkey's experiences in the media world. 🗽 The novel's St. Patrick's Day New York setting was inspired by the author's own visits to the city during the holiday, capturing the unique energy of Irish-American celebrations. 🎬 Several of Bateman's works, including entries in the Dan Starkey series, have been adapted for television and film, highlighting their cinematic appeal and crossover success.