A Dead-End Job by Author Justin Acala is a story about Death-yes Death. Watching over deaths is no different than your average 9-5 job, however using a state-of-the-art computer system does help alleviate the workload.

Death does not know this yet, but he is in desperate need of a vacation. Right now, his only solace is a toy collection that would make most collectors drool. This is how the story begins. Just like any other person that works a 9 – 5 Death is stressed. A vacation idea is proposed to him but by his only confidant and IT guy Jumbo. Jumbo is confident he can keep the program running every day since he designed it, but there is one problem, they need someone to hunt the souls that slip through the cracks and live on borrowed time. The idea to solve this problem is to hire an intern. We are introduced to Buchanan Palasinski aka Buck, from Southside Chicago. Buck, former soldier, current hitman, and role player who is given a second chance to use the skills to prolong his descent to hell. After the initial shock of being dead and meeting Death he is hired as intern. His first assignment, John Dillinger, Great Depression gangster and bank robber. Along the way Buck figures out that he knows very little about the undead world and it is going to be harder than he thinks.

Death is witty, sarcastic and from the description sounds a lot like Bill Murray which is a bonus. The story is a thrill ride stuffed with action that I did not expect, and I could not put down. We watch Buck grow and adapt into his new role and the story forms. I would Give this book a Solid 4.5 stars out of 5. This book does end with some unanswered questions and the ending borderlines the definition of a cliffhanger, this is why I gave it 4.5 instead of a 5. From the research I have done this is a standalone book. It has the potential to become a series if the author decides to go in that direction. Buck is a loveable character and I hope we see his story expand. I would 100% recommend this book if you would like urban fantasy, action, fast pace, and dark humor.

I received an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book in exchange for an honest review. This does not influence my thoughts, opinions, or the content of my review. My feedback is based solely on the merit of the book and my personal reading experience.