Review: My Boss is the Devil by Ben Schenkman
My Boss is the Devil, a book written by Ben Schenkman, offers a rather different and unique take on the Deal with the Devil trope. But, is this book worth the read? The short answer? Yes.
Note: This Review has been moved over from
, and may contain minor changes to better fit BookStack.There’s something fascinating about religion and how it interweaves itself into fiction and stories. If not the idea of otherworldly omniscient beings actually existing, it may be the cornerstones many structure their lives and ideologies around. But even if you don’t believe in a particular religion, each one offers many tidbits both fascinating and disturbing.
But what about a story with a mostly calm tone as it sets up its world and characters? Ben Schenkman pushes us knee-deep into what seems like a slice-of-life (and perhaps it is), yet makes us think deeply about what we’d do if we were in MC’s shoes. And what would you do if your boss was actually a really chill guy?
Before we get into the categories, if you’re interested in reading the book, you can do so by ordering it here. You can also check out Ben’s socials and links here.
Now, as always, I like to split reviews like these into four categories, covering different elements of the book and story. Each category will be graded on its own on a five point scale, and then added up and averaged out for the overall score. These categories are: Characters, Plot, Writing, and World-building. Let’s dive in!
Throughout the time I spent with this book, I got to know various aspects of each character and how they connected to each other. And to sum it up, I felt this was one of the strongest areas of the book.
Ben Schenkman does not shy away from making even his supernatural characters feel human yet equally devious. While the book is mostly low stakes as it develops each character, it leaves you wondering what exactly you can trust about the Devil.
Ben also used some of his characters’ developments and personalities to divert expectations and tropes. Though I did feel this happened to be one of the weaker points of the story. But, I’ll talk more about this point later.
I give this section: 4.5/5
While the premise of My Boss is the Devil is promising and filled with all sorts of potential. The execution of the plot leaves a sensation of longing for more. However, this plays well to Ben’s strength as a writer, considering it’s the first book in the series. So there is plenty to come around.
But in the case of this book, there are some intense moments, but I just wanted more of that intensity. The story mostly follows the protagonist Nick as he learns what it’s like working for Lucifer. Although it would be fun to have more action, each conflict feels carefully laid out to showcase how Nick develops throughout the story.
Those conflicts also bring a spotlight to the character dynamics as well. Working fluidly to highlight the significant danger of toxicity and abuse which jealous induced obsessions enable.
I give this section: 4/5
Although I felt a little mixed about the plot, Ben’s writing aids his storytelling incredibly– making his world come alive in ways that feels grounded and real. It is easy to follow along through each moment in the story.
And getting a chance to learn who each character is, and the roles they play in a world Ben has shaped into his own is a treat. Almost every moment is filled with purpose, creating a sense of what Ben wants from this world, and from his readers.
I give this section a 5/5.
With some books, world-building may be a fictional land where elves and dwarves exist. But on the other side of the coin, is how well grounded the concepts and details thrown into the book are.
It needs to feel real and well-established. Ben has really excelled here, integrating Christian mythology strongly and uniquely into his world. And I think it helps that his story is set in his hometown, New Haven.
Having an already established town or city makes building a great story and world much, much easier.
I give this section a 5/5.
Overall, this story is a decent read, and I appreciate deeply what it had to offer. More so, I can’t wait to read the second book in the series. My final rating of the book is 4.6/5. A strong read, but I just had some minor nitpicks.
However, I can’t recommend it enough, especially for those interested in Fantasy, Christianity, and stories about making deals with the Devil. Give it a read and perhaps, let it subvert your expectations!
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