Hellhole

Hellhole

by Gina Damico

Synopsis:

A devil is a bad influence . . . 

There was a time when geeky, squeaky-clean Max Kilgore would never lie or steal or even think about murder. Then he accidentally unearths a devil, and Max’s choices are no longer his own. The big red guy has a penchant for couch surfing and junk food—and you should never underestimate evil on a sugar high. 

With the help of Lore, a former goth girl who knows a thing or two about the dark side, Max is racing against the clock to get rid of the houseguest from hell before time, and all the Flamin’ Hot Cheetos this side of the fiery abyss, run out. 

My thoughts:

This dark comedy will have readers laughing out loud as they cheer on Max as he tries to get rid of the devil that has moved into his basement.

Max makes a mistake when he steals a silly toy for his ill mother.  This mistake allows a devil, one of 666 that live in hell to invade Max’s basement reeking havoc into the usual straight laced teen’s life.  Max, optimistic throughout the story, sees an opportunity and makes a deal with the devil.  The wisecracking devil, Burg,  will cure Max’s mother’s critical illness on the condition that Max find Burg a mansion with a hot tub.  The condition being that the mansion must be gotten by illegal means.  Afterall, Burg is a devil.  Enter the love interest Lore, a girl who understands Max’s dilemma only too well.  The pair team up to try to appease Burg before complete chaos erupts.

Readers will adore the lovable and endearing Max an awkward, shy teenager who is trying to balance taking care of his ailing mother, work and school.  Burg, the devil, with his snarky commentary and antics will keep readers laughing and entertained throughout.  Lore, the girl who steps up to help Max rid himself of his unwanted houseguest is a perfect round out for the cast.  She too is socially awkward while at the same time witty.  The plot is engaging and entertaining.  With Damico’s wry wit and constant dark humor, Hellohole is a quick funny read that will not disappointed.