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The Exit Man by Greg Levin
Suicide should come with a warning “Do not try this alone.”If you truly need out and want the job done right, you should consider using an outside expert.Like Eli.Eli Edelmann never intended on making a living through mercy killing. After reluctantly taking over his family’s party supply store following his father’s death, he is approached by a terminally ill family friend who’s had enough. The friend, a retired policeman, has an intricate plan involving something Eli has ready access to – helium. Eli is initially shocked and repulsed by the proposal, but soon begins to soften his stance and, after much deliberation, eventually agrees to lend a hand. It was supposed to be a one-time thing. How could Eli have known euthanasia was his true calling? And how long can he keep his daring underground "exit" operation going before the police or his volatile new girlfriend get wise?
Paperback
First published May 25, 2014
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About the author
Greg Levin
11 books73 followersGreg Levin writes subversive thrillers and crime fiction. His novels include The Exit Man, Sick to Death, and In Wolves’ Clothing.
Levin's work has been optioned by HBO and Showtime, and has earned him a number of awards and accolades. He’s won two Independent Publisher Book Awards, and has twice been named a Finalist for a National Indie Excellence Book Award. In a starred review of In Wolves’ Clothing, Publishers Weekly recently wrote, “This author deserves a wide audience.” Levin's agent and mother agree.
Levin resides with his wife, dog and cat in Austin, Texas, where he’s wanted by local authorities for refusing to say “y’all.”
Website: greglevin.com
Facebook: @greglevintheauthor
Twitter: @greg_levin
Instagram: @greglevinauthor
Sign up for Levin's monthly author newsletter to receive exclusive content as well as a free ebook—not to mention a 3-chapter sample of In Wolves' Clothing. You can sign up at greglevin.com.
Levin's work has been optioned by HBO and Showtime, and has earned him a number of awards and accolades. He’s won two Independent Publisher Book Awards, and has twice been named a Finalist for a National Indie Excellence Book Award. In a starred review of In Wolves’ Clothing, Publishers Weekly recently wrote, “This author deserves a wide audience.” Levin's agent and mother agree.
Levin resides with his wife, dog and cat in Austin, Texas, where he’s wanted by local authorities for refusing to say “y’all.”
Website: greglevin.com
Facebook: @greglevintheauthor
Twitter: @greg_levin
Instagram: @greglevinauthor
Sign up for Levin's monthly author newsletter to receive exclusive content as well as a free ebook—not to mention a 3-chapter sample of In Wolves' Clothing. You can sign up at greglevin.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
July 22, 2014
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review. No other consideration was offered, expected or received.
So…Eli's kind of a loser. And he knows it. He really has nothing going for him – no friends, no girlfriend, no money, no job – he's spending his life studying to be a glass blower's assistant and it's really going nowhere. When his dad dies, he comes home to help his mom out. A conversation with an old family friend, though, opens a whole new life for him. And that conversation … is just the beginning.
Wow! That is really all I can say. Wow! This is one of those 'If I could give higher than 5 stars, I would' books, a book that has won a place on my top 5 of 2014. Just.plain.wow!
I always tell people that I write like I talk, talk like I think – and sometimes it's full of sarcasm and a little all over the place. It is so awesome to meet an author who is EXACTLY the same way – and it made this book so much fun. I love the way he writes – and the way Eli thinks throughout the whole story. I was hooked from the first page and reading of Eli's life as an "euthanasia specialist" was hilarious (and sometimes sad). Definitely a book everyone should add to their TBR list.
Mr. Levin, I plan to read more of you.
Favorite line (I had to narrow it down to two, which was VERY hard):
"I'll spare you the full list of products and services; just know that if you ever need anything to help celebrate or commemorate a birthday, anniversary, graduation, homecoming, hiring, promotion, pregnancy, parole, bat mitzvah, bar mitzvah, bar exam, engagement, divorce, or Irish death, then you will almost certainly find it in our shop or catalog."
"The basement in my parents' house had never been used for anything other than extra storage for Jubilee, though often doubled as an exhibit space for artful spiders. The intricate webs that spanned the rafters and occasionally ran from one cardboard box to another were a sight to behold."
So…Eli's kind of a loser. And he knows it. He really has nothing going for him – no friends, no girlfriend, no money, no job – he's spending his life studying to be a glass blower's assistant and it's really going nowhere. When his dad dies, he comes home to help his mom out. A conversation with an old family friend, though, opens a whole new life for him. And that conversation … is just the beginning.
Wow! That is really all I can say. Wow! This is one of those 'If I could give higher than 5 stars, I would' books, a book that has won a place on my top 5 of 2014. Just.plain.wow!
I always tell people that I write like I talk, talk like I think – and sometimes it's full of sarcasm and a little all over the place. It is so awesome to meet an author who is EXACTLY the same way – and it made this book so much fun. I love the way he writes – and the way Eli thinks throughout the whole story. I was hooked from the first page and reading of Eli's life as an "euthanasia specialist" was hilarious (and sometimes sad). Definitely a book everyone should add to their TBR list.
Mr. Levin, I plan to read more of you.
Favorite line (I had to narrow it down to two, which was VERY hard):
"I'll spare you the full list of products and services; just know that if you ever need anything to help celebrate or commemorate a birthday, anniversary, graduation, homecoming, hiring, promotion, pregnancy, parole, bat mitzvah, bar mitzvah, bar exam, engagement, divorce, or Irish death, then you will almost certainly find it in our shop or catalog."
"The basement in my parents' house had never been used for anything other than extra storage for Jubilee, though often doubled as an exhibit space for artful spiders. The intricate webs that spanned the rafters and occasionally ran from one cardboard box to another were a sight to behold."
December 2, 2014
Top Pick!
One of the most dangerous acts a reviewer can undertake is to guess at what message, if any, the author infused into their novel. Some messages are loud and clear, others more subtle, and some only imagined by the reader. At first, I thought Greg Levin’s The Exit Man carried the pro-euthanasia banner high and proud. However, as the novel progressed, I started to have my doubts. Eventually, I gave up trying to guess Levin’s intentions and simply resigned myself to enjoying the novel.
By day, Eli Edelmann runs his late father’s party supply store. By night, he drinks heavily, takes speed, and entertains vague plans of becoming a professional glass blower. Eli’s life changes when an old family friend, an elderly cop with a terminal disease, approaches him to complete a task left unfinished by Eli’s recently deceased father - help the dying cop commit suicide using helium from his party supply store. Eli does, and soon finds himself helping dozens of terminally ill people commit suicide. In the process, he meets Zoe, a beautiful yet mentally disturbed woman, who eventually becomes his partner in administering his dark mercies.
...read more at UndergroundBookReviews(dot)com
One of the most dangerous acts a reviewer can undertake is to guess at what message, if any, the author infused into their novel. Some messages are loud and clear, others more subtle, and some only imagined by the reader. At first, I thought Greg Levin’s The Exit Man carried the pro-euthanasia banner high and proud. However, as the novel progressed, I started to have my doubts. Eventually, I gave up trying to guess Levin’s intentions and simply resigned myself to enjoying the novel.
By day, Eli Edelmann runs his late father’s party supply store. By night, he drinks heavily, takes speed, and entertains vague plans of becoming a professional glass blower. Eli’s life changes when an old family friend, an elderly cop with a terminal disease, approaches him to complete a task left unfinished by Eli’s recently deceased father - help the dying cop commit suicide using helium from his party supply store. Eli does, and soon finds himself helping dozens of terminally ill people commit suicide. In the process, he meets Zoe, a beautiful yet mentally disturbed woman, who eventually becomes his partner in administering his dark mercies.
...read more at UndergroundBookReviews(dot)com
April 28, 2016
The 'hero' is a self-medicating, self-described loser, who, through the death of his father and a request from an old family friend, finally discovers his calling. Which is to help the dying exit this life - at their request, of course. Along the way he saves a beautiful, suicidal girl who has just murdered her ex-fiance, and together they could be unstoppable. If only she didn't have this murder habit . . .
The writing is good, the ironic tone surprising and fun. It was just a little too neat somehow, not enough suspense or plot twists. And I thought the hero was too perfect - I like them more flawed.
The writing is good, the ironic tone surprising and fun. It was just a little too neat somehow, not enough suspense or plot twists. And I thought the hero was too perfect - I like them more flawed.
January 7, 2019
No spoilers, here. I found THE EXIT MAN when I did a search on Amazon looking for something to new and interesting to read using the search terms “dark humor” and “satire.” This book delivered on my request and then some. Greg Levin’s book is unique, inventive, and well-written.
The plot offered several twists that were fun and surprising. Levin handled the topic of assisted suicide with respect, while busting conventional thinking with clever humor and quirky characterization.
I enjoyed the irreverent voice of the main character, Eli, and how Levin exposed his flaws and complex nature. Eli’s love interest, Zoe, was memorable for the drama she infused into Eli’s life and the overall story.
I loved this book. My only disappointment is that I thought Levin could’ve challenged his main character even more than he did. Perhaps in a sequel? THE EXIT MAN is a highly pleasurable read that I highly recommend, especially if you like dark humor.
The plot offered several twists that were fun and surprising. Levin handled the topic of assisted suicide with respect, while busting conventional thinking with clever humor and quirky characterization.
I enjoyed the irreverent voice of the main character, Eli, and how Levin exposed his flaws and complex nature. Eli’s love interest, Zoe, was memorable for the drama she infused into Eli’s life and the overall story.
I loved this book. My only disappointment is that I thought Levin could’ve challenged his main character even more than he did. Perhaps in a sequel? THE EXIT MAN is a highly pleasurable read that I highly recommend, especially if you like dark humor.
May 8, 2015
The Exit Man has a great premise. Eli, a man who is drifting through life, finds meaning after he takes over his late father’s party supplies store. He learns that his father and a friend, while both terminally ill, had hatched a painless and undetectable way to die. Eli’s father inadvertently spoilt the party by dying naturally. The friend requests Eli’s help to complete the deal.
Eli after some reflection, agrees to do what he asks. In so doing he turns his life around. He is inspired to continue his work as an exit man while still maintaining his upbeat, balloon-selling persona by day. Then he finds himself saving, rather than ending, a life and this throws up a whole new set of challenges.
The author is unflinching and compassionate in his descriptions of the terminally ill people Eli encounters. Some have humour and courage, while others are deeply unlikeable. They are all real and convincing.
However a couple of things don’t quite work for me. The first is Eli’s voice. He has some good lines, but he also explains everything to death. There’s a long, slow set-up showing how he came to do his first exit. Then we get the act itself. Then we get an explanation of how he felt about the whole thing. Then a recap of where he is in his life. This pattern repeats throughout the book. For a story like this to work, it has to have pace and momentum but, like a balloon, the author keeps blowing it up and then letting it deflate.
I also felt that the story, having promised big issues, shied away from them. The dilemmas which Eli faces are a little too neatly resolved. There are some plot twists but they don’t really relate to his own behaviour and its consequences.
It’s one thing to be in favour of euthanasia in principle, but how would you feel if you were actually there, doing it? For a stranger? Eli never struggles with a difficult case, one that makes him question what he’s doing, or his own motivation, or puts him in serious danger. Higher stakes for Eli would also make for more tension and energy in the narrative.
I would have liked to be more challenged by the issues and for this to be a shorter, sharper read. Trust the reader – we can deal with it.
This review first appeared on the TNBBC blog http://thenextbestbookblog.blogspot.c...
TNBBC received a copy of The Exit Man from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Eli after some reflection, agrees to do what he asks. In so doing he turns his life around. He is inspired to continue his work as an exit man while still maintaining his upbeat, balloon-selling persona by day. Then he finds himself saving, rather than ending, a life and this throws up a whole new set of challenges.
The author is unflinching and compassionate in his descriptions of the terminally ill people Eli encounters. Some have humour and courage, while others are deeply unlikeable. They are all real and convincing.
However a couple of things don’t quite work for me. The first is Eli’s voice. He has some good lines, but he also explains everything to death. There’s a long, slow set-up showing how he came to do his first exit. Then we get the act itself. Then we get an explanation of how he felt about the whole thing. Then a recap of where he is in his life. This pattern repeats throughout the book. For a story like this to work, it has to have pace and momentum but, like a balloon, the author keeps blowing it up and then letting it deflate.
I also felt that the story, having promised big issues, shied away from them. The dilemmas which Eli faces are a little too neatly resolved. There are some plot twists but they don’t really relate to his own behaviour and its consequences.
It’s one thing to be in favour of euthanasia in principle, but how would you feel if you were actually there, doing it? For a stranger? Eli never struggles with a difficult case, one that makes him question what he’s doing, or his own motivation, or puts him in serious danger. Higher stakes for Eli would also make for more tension and energy in the narrative.
I would have liked to be more challenged by the issues and for this to be a shorter, sharper read. Trust the reader – we can deal with it.
This review first appeared on the TNBBC blog http://thenextbestbookblog.blogspot.c...
TNBBC received a copy of The Exit Man from the author in exchange for an honest review.
July 27, 2015
Wittily written
November 25, 2019
A little twisted eloquence
A very unique protagonist wisecracks his way way on a unique journey. Lewin reveals himself to have an almost encyclopedic knowledge of severe, terminal illnesses. His protagonist has lost his father to cancer when his neighbor, a compatriot of his father, approaches him to assist him in "passing on" to end his terminal illness. Edelman is presented with an almost foolproof, undetectable methodology that can't be done alone. But if the victim is cooperative, it can be made to appear that he passed in his sleep. And so it begins.
It's a stretch to go from assisted suicide to seeing oneself as serving a higher cause without straying into madness, but Lewin has pulled it off. Before long our somewhat neurotic hero is trolling support groups for the terminal!y ill and finding many anxious for his assistance. It even becomes lucrative!
Then he meets a beautiful girl apparently about to jump off a bridge, saves her, and things get weird. Without any reveals, suffice it to say that things begin taking very unexpected twists until the very end of the book.
Much of the novel is the hero talking to the reader, and it's here that Lewin's skill as a writer (as well as his somewhat twisted mind and sharp humor) shines. One thing g of interest - this is the second of his works I've read, and it's the second one where his protagonist has an intimate knowledge of life on drugs. A different set of them, but one begins to wonder how he did his research.
A very unique protagonist wisecracks his way way on a unique journey. Lewin reveals himself to have an almost encyclopedic knowledge of severe, terminal illnesses. His protagonist has lost his father to cancer when his neighbor, a compatriot of his father, approaches him to assist him in "passing on" to end his terminal illness. Edelman is presented with an almost foolproof, undetectable methodology that can't be done alone. But if the victim is cooperative, it can be made to appear that he passed in his sleep. And so it begins.
It's a stretch to go from assisted suicide to seeing oneself as serving a higher cause without straying into madness, but Lewin has pulled it off. Before long our somewhat neurotic hero is trolling support groups for the terminal!y ill and finding many anxious for his assistance. It even becomes lucrative!
Then he meets a beautiful girl apparently about to jump off a bridge, saves her, and things get weird. Without any reveals, suffice it to say that things begin taking very unexpected twists until the very end of the book.
Much of the novel is the hero talking to the reader, and it's here that Lewin's skill as a writer (as well as his somewhat twisted mind and sharp humor) shines. One thing g of interest - this is the second of his works I've read, and it's the second one where his protagonist has an intimate knowledge of life on drugs. A different set of them, but one begins to wonder how he did his research.
December 29, 2018
Plot synopsis: Man comes back home because his father is dying, takes over Dad's party supply business, helps terminally ill family friend commit suicide. Grateful family friend gives man some money, and a career is born.
Man meets suicidal woman on a bridge, talks her down, helps her cover up the murder of her rapist ex-fiance, and a romance is born.
Man takes woman into the new "exit" business. Woman has her own ideas on expansion. What could possibly go wrong?
"I can put up with a lot in a relationship. I'm a broad-minded man, one who realizes that sometimes a girl has to do things like shoot her ex or jump off a bridge or carry out a vendetta on low, lawless men."
Exit Man is funny, of course, and pleasingly (or disturbingly- depending on your viewpoint) irreverent, but author's dry wit and sardonic asides also point out the hypocrisy of a society where suffering people must turn to an outlaw for compassion and help.
Luckily our protagonist and his partner/girlfriend and their terminally ill clients are the ultimate DIYers; doing it for themselves, for each other and for the community at large, and we lucky readers get to tag along!
The ending is a little abrupt, but to be fair, I'm not sure how one would wrap up the various threads neatly and satisfactorily, and this is a minor quibble about a very fine novel. Highly recommended. Discovered on the website TransgressiveFiction.info
Man meets suicidal woman on a bridge, talks her down, helps her cover up the murder of her rapist ex-fiance, and a romance is born.
Man takes woman into the new "exit" business. Woman has her own ideas on expansion. What could possibly go wrong?
"I can put up with a lot in a relationship. I'm a broad-minded man, one who realizes that sometimes a girl has to do things like shoot her ex or jump off a bridge or carry out a vendetta on low, lawless men."
Exit Man is funny, of course, and pleasingly (or disturbingly- depending on your viewpoint) irreverent, but author's dry wit and sardonic asides also point out the hypocrisy of a society where suffering people must turn to an outlaw for compassion and help.
Luckily our protagonist and his partner/girlfriend and their terminally ill clients are the ultimate DIYers; doing it for themselves, for each other and for the community at large, and we lucky readers get to tag along!
The ending is a little abrupt, but to be fair, I'm not sure how one would wrap up the various threads neatly and satisfactorily, and this is a minor quibble about a very fine novel. Highly recommended. Discovered on the website TransgressiveFiction.info
December 26, 2019
Yep, an unknown (at least to me) author rating five stars. Well, four and three-quarters, as I have a sniggling gripe with how he wrapped up an otherwise amazingly original plot. I'd get into that sniggling gripe but I don't want to give things away. It worked; I just felt a little cheated by it, that's all.
That aside, the story Levin tells is unique, totally credible (freaky as that is to say) and populated with characters doing something most people would find callous unless they'd been in similar situations.
Eli Edelmann, however, finds himself in a most awkward position when a family friend asks him to put him out of his pain and misery. What does a good friend do? He obliges. And before he knows it, he's obliging others as well.
Anyone who's witnessed a loved one being eaten away by cancer and its treatment will understand why Eli obliges.
Eli's a likeable narrator, and I was compelled to root for him, to hope he didn't get caught, that he would find love and happiness.
It's a great casual read. While it deals head-on with serious, sad topics, Levin's ability to add levity through his witty and sympathetic narrator keeps the novel from getting bogged down in diatribes about the unfairness of life (though many of the characters certainly had plausible platforms for that).
I'd recommend this book to anyone looking for something risky, unusual, and well-written.
That aside, the story Levin tells is unique, totally credible (freaky as that is to say) and populated with characters doing something most people would find callous unless they'd been in similar situations.
Eli Edelmann, however, finds himself in a most awkward position when a family friend asks him to put him out of his pain and misery. What does a good friend do? He obliges. And before he knows it, he's obliging others as well.
Anyone who's witnessed a loved one being eaten away by cancer and its treatment will understand why Eli obliges.
Eli's a likeable narrator, and I was compelled to root for him, to hope he didn't get caught, that he would find love and happiness.
It's a great casual read. While it deals head-on with serious, sad topics, Levin's ability to add levity through his witty and sympathetic narrator keeps the novel from getting bogged down in diatribes about the unfairness of life (though many of the characters certainly had plausible platforms for that).
I'd recommend this book to anyone looking for something risky, unusual, and well-written.
July 19, 2022
When Eli’s father dies, Eli receives a strange request from a retired police sergeant (and family friend) to assist with the helium-induced assisted suicide that his father was supposed to help with. Eli is conflicted at first, but he’s seen terminal suffering firsthand and there’s the financial benefit to consider. He never expected the act to give him a rush.
Fast forward. Eli embeds himself in a terminal illness support group where he becomes somewhat of a legend as the local angel of mercy. Then he meets Zoe. Suicidal, a bit unhinged, and rather than assist with Zoe’s exit, he convinces her to stick around. It’s the old “boy meets suicidal girl and finds out she’s homicidal” trope. Just kidding. I don’t think that was a thing before Greg Levin.
People die and tension ensues.
I have a macabre sense of humor. I’d recommend this book only for those readers who do, because lighthearted sarcasm is used as coping mechanism for the subject of assisted suicide. There is a quirky, offbeat romance and some darker undertones (minor references to rape, as a trigger warning). A fun read with likeable characters despite their circumstances. If I had to complain, the cynicism is overdone in a few places and the ending falls under the category of “my, isn’t that convenient?” Unique. Fun. A clever idea well executed. Pun intended.
Fast forward. Eli embeds himself in a terminal illness support group where he becomes somewhat of a legend as the local angel of mercy. Then he meets Zoe. Suicidal, a bit unhinged, and rather than assist with Zoe’s exit, he convinces her to stick around. It’s the old “boy meets suicidal girl and finds out she’s homicidal” trope. Just kidding. I don’t think that was a thing before Greg Levin.
People die and tension ensues.
I have a macabre sense of humor. I’d recommend this book only for those readers who do, because lighthearted sarcasm is used as coping mechanism for the subject of assisted suicide. There is a quirky, offbeat romance and some darker undertones (minor references to rape, as a trigger warning). A fun read with likeable characters despite their circumstances. If I had to complain, the cynicism is overdone in a few places and the ending falls under the category of “my, isn’t that convenient?” Unique. Fun. A clever idea well executed. Pun intended.
April 26, 2024
The blurb of this book gave me The Good Samaritan vibes. IYKYK. And it did not disappoint!
Eli has found his calling in helping the chronically ill have a peaceful ending to avoid the suffering that comes with end stage disease. Which I 100% believe should be legal, but that is a discussion for another time.
I really enjoyed this book and want more from this author STAT. It was well written, unique and I enjoyed the dark humor. I’ve seen reviewers say some parts were inappropriate but I for one know that when working with death, making light of darkness is how many get through it.
I could say so much about this book don’t want to ruin anything…
If it sounds good to you, do it! Idk how this book has been around for 10 years and not gotten more reviews than it has on goodreads. Hopefully it gets some attention on bookstagram.
🚨 I will say this book could be extremely triggering for many. Suicide, rape, chronic illness, dark humor, Cancer, loss of a parent just to name a few. If you have any hesitation, it is not for you.🚨
Eli has found his calling in helping the chronically ill have a peaceful ending to avoid the suffering that comes with end stage disease. Which I 100% believe should be legal, but that is a discussion for another time.
I really enjoyed this book and want more from this author STAT. It was well written, unique and I enjoyed the dark humor. I’ve seen reviewers say some parts were inappropriate but I for one know that when working with death, making light of darkness is how many get through it.
I could say so much about this book don’t want to ruin anything…
If it sounds good to you, do it! Idk how this book has been around for 10 years and not gotten more reviews than it has on goodreads. Hopefully it gets some attention on bookstagram.
🚨 I will say this book could be extremely triggering for many. Suicide, rape, chronic illness, dark humor, Cancer, loss of a parent just to name a few. If you have any hesitation, it is not for you.🚨
January 21, 2022
This book! WOW!
I was desperately looking for something available for Ebooks at my library and I stumbled upon this, and I'm so glad I did. This book gripped me immediately. I seriously could not put it down. The author's imagination is incredible. It might be a sensitive topic for some people.. but if you can get past that, this book will not disappoint. The dark humor is also incredible, and had me laughing my butt off a few times. I gave this one 5 stars, too bad there aren't anymore stars for this one! This book will never be forgotten and has made its way to one of my all time favorites.
I was desperately looking for something available for Ebooks at my library and I stumbled upon this, and I'm so glad I did. This book gripped me immediately. I seriously could not put it down. The author's imagination is incredible. It might be a sensitive topic for some people.. but if you can get past that, this book will not disappoint. The dark humor is also incredible, and had me laughing my butt off a few times. I gave this one 5 stars, too bad there aren't anymore stars for this one! This book will never be forgotten and has made its way to one of my all time favorites.
August 12, 2020
This is like Natural Born Killers and Dexter all in one and I absolutely adored the dark humor, the somewhat irreverence for the subject of death and the ironic morality. Such a great brain exercise to consider empathy for the main characters. I want everybody to like and read this book, but I am not sure it is everyone's style. I cannot remember swearing as it doesn't register for me. I am not sure my mom and sister would like it, but I think my friend Krista would!
November 27, 2020
It brings tears and joy
This is quite the story. The people involved are all suffering in one way or another. Some find a faster way to get around it. Regardless of your beliefs, a well written book that sticks with you after it's finished.
This is quite the story. The people involved are all suffering in one way or another. Some find a faster way to get around it. Regardless of your beliefs, a well written book that sticks with you after it's finished.
July 1, 2017
Greg Levin has a serious gift for dark humor. I could not put this book down and it is not my normal genre choice. It was just that much fun to read.
February 27, 2018
Funny, irreverent, unique, and touching. Loved it!
April 2, 2019
4.25 Stars.
December 3, 2020
This seriously funny book about death will slay you! No kidding; I'm dead serious.
January 11, 2021
Exit man
I liked this tale more than I expected. An unexpected romance blossoms, though not without troubles. Easy style to read.
I liked this tale more than I expected. An unexpected romance blossoms, though not without troubles. Easy style to read.
January 26, 2022
Very good, thought provoking book. Loved the dark humor.
March 19, 2017
Original concept and well executed. The book manages to be both endearing as well as cynical, while at the same time forcing me to question how cynical a person I must be to find it so damned endearing. Recommended.
June 1, 2018
This novel is DARK. It's humorous but that didn't lighten it for me - it felt inappropriate, actually. But it was really engaging and makes the reader think about morality and the human experience in a way we often don't.
July 17, 2014
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Dark Comic Thriller...when I started reading this book I wasn't quite sure what to expect. The genre is imagination-capturing and fresh, I loved every minute of It!
I haven't read books by Greg Levin before, but after this glorious introduction you will definitely find a paperback copy (or two) from this author on my bookshelf.
"Suicide should come with a warning label: Don’t try this alone. If you truly need out and want the job done right, you should seriously consider using an outside expert. Like me."
The Exit Man is not only the title of the book, but also the very accurate job description of Eli, our protagonist. Eli's dad recently passed away from cancer and Eli is now the owner of the party rental business Jubilee, which is extremely convenient as helium is a key ingredient to his sideline hobby/job, mercy euthanasia...
Sargent William Rush, a family friend, first introduces the idea to Eli:
"Is there anything I can help you with today, Sgt. Rush?” ... “Yes, I think there is. But I just wanted to let you know that it’s not a typical request.” He looked at me and winked, as if I was supposed to be privy to something. “Okay, we do atypical here.” “Atypical is putting it lightly, actually.” Again with the wink. “We get all kinds of strange orders and requests here. You can tell me what you need and I’ll hook you up.” “Yes. Exactly. That’s just what I need – you to hook me up.” ... “I don’t follow, sir.” “Damn it. I was hoping maybe your father had let you in on our arrangement.” “Arrangement? Look, if Dad used to offer you special pricing or services, I would be more than happy to do the–” “No, Eli, that’s not what I’m talking about... I was getting anxious. Sgt. Rush had never been one to beat around the bush... “Okay, well, all you have to do is tell me what–” “He was going to help me out in a big way.” “I see, just tell me–” “And receive twenty thousand dollars for his services.” “Twenty grand?” “Yup, for about an hour of his time.” “Twenty grand for an hour’s work? And just who was he going to have to kill?” I asked with a laugh. “Me,” he said without one."
As would be accepted, Eli - like any normal human being - is appalled by the idea of killing, for whatever reason, but slightly intrigued, he googles the helium method anyway. After serious consideration he helps Sargent Rush with his absurd request and experiences such a tremendous thrill of accomplishment and serenity afterward that he starts seeking out terminally ill people whom he can assist on their journey to the afterlife...
Eli's life becomes more complicated with every "exit" and the irony of his love life is a intricate delight that spirals the plot into a extraordinary climax.
I highly recommend reading The Exit Man, but strongly advise: Do Not Try This At Home!
4-Bombs
Reviewed by Soreta
Dark Comic Thriller...when I started reading this book I wasn't quite sure what to expect. The genre is imagination-capturing and fresh, I loved every minute of It!
I haven't read books by Greg Levin before, but after this glorious introduction you will definitely find a paperback copy (or two) from this author on my bookshelf.
"Suicide should come with a warning label: Don’t try this alone. If you truly need out and want the job done right, you should seriously consider using an outside expert. Like me."
The Exit Man is not only the title of the book, but also the very accurate job description of Eli, our protagonist. Eli's dad recently passed away from cancer and Eli is now the owner of the party rental business Jubilee, which is extremely convenient as helium is a key ingredient to his sideline hobby/job, mercy euthanasia...
Sargent William Rush, a family friend, first introduces the idea to Eli:
"Is there anything I can help you with today, Sgt. Rush?” ... “Yes, I think there is. But I just wanted to let you know that it’s not a typical request.” He looked at me and winked, as if I was supposed to be privy to something. “Okay, we do atypical here.” “Atypical is putting it lightly, actually.” Again with the wink. “We get all kinds of strange orders and requests here. You can tell me what you need and I’ll hook you up.” “Yes. Exactly. That’s just what I need – you to hook me up.” ... “I don’t follow, sir.” “Damn it. I was hoping maybe your father had let you in on our arrangement.” “Arrangement? Look, if Dad used to offer you special pricing or services, I would be more than happy to do the–” “No, Eli, that’s not what I’m talking about... I was getting anxious. Sgt. Rush had never been one to beat around the bush... “Okay, well, all you have to do is tell me what–” “He was going to help me out in a big way.” “I see, just tell me–” “And receive twenty thousand dollars for his services.” “Twenty grand?” “Yup, for about an hour of his time.” “Twenty grand for an hour’s work? And just who was he going to have to kill?” I asked with a laugh. “Me,” he said without one."
As would be accepted, Eli - like any normal human being - is appalled by the idea of killing, for whatever reason, but slightly intrigued, he googles the helium method anyway. After serious consideration he helps Sargent Rush with his absurd request and experiences such a tremendous thrill of accomplishment and serenity afterward that he starts seeking out terminally ill people whom he can assist on their journey to the afterlife...
Eli's life becomes more complicated with every "exit" and the irony of his love life is a intricate delight that spirals the plot into a extraordinary climax.
I highly recommend reading The Exit Man, but strongly advise: Do Not Try This At Home!
4-Bombs
Reviewed by Soreta
September 7, 2014
I purchased The Exit Man by Greg Levin on the recommendation of a fellow author on Goodreads. I was not asked to review it, but following what turned out to be a surprisingly delightful and non-stop read, I couldn’t resist the urge to comment.
I loved Exit, and was frankly surprised by how effortlessly it managed to not only absorb my attention, but convey a sense of humor given the subject matter. Even repeated use of the conjunctive ‘that’, a sentence construction I reflexively abhor, did not distract from the delightfully crisp wit and humor of the narrative. Greg Levin’s otherwise deft wrangling of the language lifted the subject matter from macabre to entertaining, from WTF to LOL, from “you’ve got to be kidding” to sticking around for the ride.
And what a wonderful ride it was. Full of irreverent humor, sarcastic wit, and a mind boggling affinity for a character whose empathetic and sympathetic nature is so convincingly drawn, it nullifies any preconceived antipathy to his unorthodox calling. A few sudden twists later the ride turns into a cyclone roller coaster the reader never sees coming, but is nevertheless able to enjoy with frightful glee.
Thank you for this one Amanda. And of course thank you Greg Levin, for a thoroughly engrossing and exciting ride.
I loved Exit, and was frankly surprised by how effortlessly it managed to not only absorb my attention, but convey a sense of humor given the subject matter. Even repeated use of the conjunctive ‘that’, a sentence construction I reflexively abhor, did not distract from the delightfully crisp wit and humor of the narrative. Greg Levin’s otherwise deft wrangling of the language lifted the subject matter from macabre to entertaining, from WTF to LOL, from “you’ve got to be kidding” to sticking around for the ride.
And what a wonderful ride it was. Full of irreverent humor, sarcastic wit, and a mind boggling affinity for a character whose empathetic and sympathetic nature is so convincingly drawn, it nullifies any preconceived antipathy to his unorthodox calling. A few sudden twists later the ride turns into a cyclone roller coaster the reader never sees coming, but is nevertheless able to enjoy with frightful glee.
Thank you for this one Amanda. And of course thank you Greg Levin, for a thoroughly engrossing and exciting ride.
July 16, 2014
I was asked to read this book from a new blog tour company and, since I find it difficult to say no, I agreed. I had no idea what I was getting myself into. Was this book some kind of mystery/suspense/what? No, The Exit Man is black humor at its best. The writing is incredibly witty. Just when you think you know what the book is about, Levin throws you a curve ball and man does he like curve balls. There were more twists and turns in this plot than in most mystery and suspense novels. And the characters… where have you been all my life Eli? I love and hated Eli in equal amounts. I don’t actually want to say any more because I don’t want any potential readers to miss out on the surprises this novel has to offer. I read a lot of mystery novels and by and large I’ve got the mystery figured out before I’ve finished 50% of the book. Now, this book is of course not a mystery, but I was sure I had it figured it. I was wrong again and again. I can’t say more. Just give it a go. If you like dark humor, you’re going to enjoy the ride.
July 23, 2014
Assisted suicide, the love between a son and his parents, mercy killing, and dodging the police are all in this book. The author made me rethink your stand on assisted suicide. Until you are in the shoes of these characters you will never know how they feel. Should people live in pain? We euthanize animals so they do not suffer, and yet humans have to deal with the pain and slowly wait for death. Eli was a good person, and a good son, but he was indeed killing people (or helping them kill themselves). It was interesting to read the end and to see if he got caught. I kept wondering what the police would do to him, would he be arrested? Put to death? Just when I thought Eli's "Exit Plans" were done the author threw in a twist that I did not see coming. The ending was great, and I would love to read another book by this author. I am giving this book a 4/5. I was given a copy to review, however all opinions are my own.
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- See more at: http://dealsharingaunt.blogspot.com/2...
September 4, 2014
THE EXIT MAN by Greg Levin ©2014 has crimes galore, but some you may find excusable. Eli Edelmann has an odd job: he assists suicides to a painless end. Other crimes occur but there’s no sleuth sifting clues to find a dastardly murderer, like traditional crime fiction.
Told from the first person point of view, THE EXIT MAN is a fascinating, plausible tale. Eli Edelmann is a misfit: smart but lazy and not quite sure what to do with his life, until he falls into his new profession. We hear the patter of his thoughts, the tumble of amusing asides, self-consciousness and self-discovery. Juxtaposed with the gravity of serious illness. He slides seamlessly between each with a very engaging voice. The story is invigorating.
Greg Levin uses the very best kind of humour: the only person Eli Edelmann pokes fun at is himself. And he does take a few jabs at the incomprehensibleness of our world.
THE EXIT MAN is unique, moving and un-put-down-able.
Theresa de Valence
http://www.reviewsbytdev.com/
Told from the first person point of view, THE EXIT MAN is a fascinating, plausible tale. Eli Edelmann is a misfit: smart but lazy and not quite sure what to do with his life, until he falls into his new profession. We hear the patter of his thoughts, the tumble of amusing asides, self-consciousness and self-discovery. Juxtaposed with the gravity of serious illness. He slides seamlessly between each with a very engaging voice. The story is invigorating.
Greg Levin uses the very best kind of humour: the only person Eli Edelmann pokes fun at is himself. And he does take a few jabs at the incomprehensibleness of our world.
THE EXIT MAN is unique, moving and un-put-down-able.
Theresa de Valence
http://www.reviewsbytdev.com/
May 3, 2016
Simply Superb. This was such an easy and enjoyable book to read. There’s a reason why so many readers have given Greg Levin 5 stars for his book, and that’s because it really is that good. It’s also nice to read something with a different and unique subject like assisted euthanasia. You can’t help but like Eli Edelmann, he’s more than a little bit floored, but that’s what we love about him. He definitely doesn’t have his life in order, but his heart is in the right place. There are laugh out loud moments, and times where I found myself reflecting. I really look forward to more from this Author in the future. Do yourself a favour and read this book, you won’t be disappointed.
July 5, 2015
It's a shame that this book doesn't have more of a following. I've certainly never heard of a book of fiction tackling the topic of euthanasia. To bring humor to such a delicate topic is quite a feat, but the author pulled it off repeatedly with ease. The dialogue was believable and never felt forced resulting in the book flowing at a nice, crisp pace. I hope Mr. Levin continues to write and publish books - despite a couple of typos (which is really the editor's fault for not catching), he is a talented writer.
July 4, 2014
What a great book! If you appreciate good writing and a dark sense of humor, get yourself a copy of "The Exit Man" and read it. Now. Alas, there’s no hip-hop poetry in this one, unlike in his debut novel “Notes on an Orange Burial,” but it’s a darkly funny book that alternates zingers about Fox News with thoughtful commentary on euthanasia. A great addition to my bookshelf -- can't wait to see what Greg comes up with next.
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