Author: Matthew Hughes
Publisher: Angry Robot
Rating: Three stars
It's a funny story about a mild-mannered actuary, Chesney Arnstruther, who lead up a normal boring life until he accidentally summoned a demon. Refused to sell his soul, he caused a strike in Hell until finally managed to come up with an agreement with the Satan. Maniac of comic-hero, Chesney decided he could use his agreement with Hell for good cause and transformed himself into a superhero, The Actionary.
I have to admit I'm not a fan of superhero stories at all, especially those who wander around in tight clothes. That's why it took me awhile to finish this story, but put that aside, I enjoyed the funny and hilarious moments in this book. It got Tom Holt's feel in it; a somewhat nerdy main character who accept his role as background suddenly become the highlight of the story. At first it all seemed to be simple; chased the bad guy and save damsel in distress, but soon Chesney got caught up in politics and - like most comic hero - met the villain of his story.
You won't find deep and profound characters - the women are quite one-dimensional and the men are stereotypical. As matter of fact, don't expect something deep in this story, it basically just a story to entertain you. To make you laugh or if you're a fan of superhero, to make you imagine what if you got the same chance as Chesney did.
Wacky and hilarious, fans of superhero will enjoy this book.
Lynossa

3 comments:
The theme is somewhat like Marlowe's Dr Faustus! I like the art on the cover! Thanks for the heads up! :)
Sounds like a fun and quick read and I could do with a laugh or two at the moment so I will enter your giveaway.
Thanks for opening it up to worldwide entries.
Much appreciated.
Carol T
buddytho {at} gmail DOT com
This book certainly sounds like a hoot, so I'd love to read about this ordinary and unassuming character who transforms himself into a superhero. Love the idea of a strike in hell;)
Sarah
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