Tab Article

Ratings: ★★★★☆ (4.1/5)
Genre: Literary Fiction, Humorous Fiction, Contemporary Fiction

Book Review:
''Ashok Ferrey, described by Shehan Karunatilaka as 'both court jester and crown prince of modern Sri Lankan writing,' delivers a wonderfully original and entertaining novel in 'The Professional.'

The premise is delightfully unexpected: an Oxford-educated Sri Lankan mathematician becomes a high-class male escort in 1980s London. Ferrey's writing is sharp, witty, and full of insight. The protagonist, Chamath, is a wonderfully drawn character—naive, intelligent, and surprisingly successful in his new, unusual career. The novel is both hilarious and dark, exploring themes of immigration, identity, and survival with a light but never frivolous touch.

Seneka Abeyratne, a Gratiaen Prize winner, calls it 'deliciously erotic,' and it certainly has its moments. But at its heart, it's a sage and canny exploration of love and life. If you're looking for something fresh, original, and brilliantly written, 'The Professional' is a must-read. It's a gem of modern Sri Lankan writing.''