Rate this book

Costume Not Included (2012)

by Matthew Hughes(Favorite Author)

3.66 of 5 Votes: 4

ISBN

0857661396 (ISBN13: 9780857661395)

languge

English

genre

Fantasy

publisher

Angry Robot

series

To Hell and Back

review 1: I'm very disappointed. What was billed as a different kind of superhero story quickly devolved into a celebration of the authors distaste for religion. In addition to having several obvious logical flaws and excessive and pointless sexual encounters, this book had very little actual crime fighting and even managed to remove the most unique and endearing characteristics of the hero without the satisfaction of actual personal conflict and growth. I can see how he might be setting up for a big finish in the final book, but it will take quite the ending to make this meandering journey worthwhile.
review 2: It was a little circuitous. The action seemed to pick up towards the latter half of this book. Being that this is supposed to be a light somewhat adventurous com... moreedy that's definitely a minus. One of the things that was so inviting about the first novel was Stanley's nerdy distance and awkwardness. It really helped you root for the guy. It made his transformation into a super hero all the more satisfying you when you see him exhibit some decisiveness and power in his own life (towards his mother and co-workers). Stanley's just a little to chummy and happy for the firs part of this novel. He's living the perfect life. There is no conflict or obstacles to overcome until the very last quarter of the book. Again, that would be ok in another book. This could lead towards introspection and seeing more into Stanley's soul, but hey this is a light super hero comedy and we don't get that kind of play nor should we expect to get that type of play. Another interesting absence seems to be less give and take with his demon assistant. You just get the feeling that he's an errand boy mechanically carrying out tasks. There was negotiation, no background (considering an immortal demon would have quite a bunch) besides a passing reference to being involved in the whole Legion pigs episode in the New Testament. I'd have loved to have seen his assistant as just more than background. less

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