Colin Gigl

*I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.*

I loved the concept of the Ferryman Institute when I read the blurb, and the book did not disappoint! Gigl turns the portrayal of the grim reaper, the ferryman, (whatever you want to call your version of him) on it's side, giving him the very same human emotions he had when he was alive. Imagine being excellent at your job, utterly sick of it - and stuck doing it for eternity! That's the case for Charlie Dawson, who is desperately trying to get transferred out of his job, where is must try to convince the dying to cross over.

This book had it's share of twists - and just when I thought I had it figured out, I was left stumped. The characters were fun and colorful, as was Charlie's place of "business" in the afterlife.

I certainly wasn't expecting to laugh so much in a book about death and moving on! That said, I did sweep through the range of emotions, because, you know, death.
Still, funny and clever, I couldn't put this one down...and I can't wait to see more from this author.… (mer)

This novel can be best described as an action-comedy. I love Charlie's personality, with his dry sarcasm and his genuine concern for others. His interactions with friends, and especially Alice, are so much fun to read! The story itself takes you through car chases and hidden tunnels, betrayals and elaborate secrets.... I was entertained throughout the entire story. I thought Alice was also really spunky but her behaviour seemed strange for someone who is 26; she acted more like a teenager than anything else. The author touched on sensitive topics like depression and anorexia, but still kept the novel light. I kind of wish the author had spent a little bit more time developing that, rather than just making Charlie the "savior" of Alice's depression but it wasn't too much of an issue for me. It has been a long time since I've read a lighthearted novel but it was long overdue. I'm really glad I got the chance to read this novel, because it is definitely one of my favorite quirky books of this year!

For more reviews, visit: www.veereading.wordpress.com… (mer)