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Ohmigod!
- GenresFantasy
233 pages, Paperback
Published April 25, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
May 31, 2024
It’s bin day, and God has come back to Earth. Everyone is very excited about it, but for Sam it’s an inconvenience he could really do without. What if the bin men don’t show up?
This is an intriguing, satirical rollercoaster of a book, filled with fantastical events that somehow feel entirely plausible under the circumstances. Throughout the main plot runs the question of what it means to be a good person, and highlights the absurdity of certain religious beliefs.
I really enjoyed the narrative style. The story is told from Sam’s point of view, following his train of thought as though we are inside his head. This means we get all his views on current events, frequently interrupted by his various worries and concerns. Sam is a pure soul who just wants to go about his days ticking off his to-do list and this God thing has really thrown him off balance. I found myself really rooting for him.
Asadi’s God is a vengeful one, destroying cities, entire countries, and killing shocking numbers of people (though it is important to note that these elements are taken directly from the Bible and inserted into a modern world). Certain parts of the book were stressful to read, especially given current events between Israel and Palestine, and had me on the edge of my seat trying to figure out where the story would go next.
Ohmigod! is like nothing I’ve read before and I enjoyed it immensely.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
This is an intriguing, satirical rollercoaster of a book, filled with fantastical events that somehow feel entirely plausible under the circumstances. Throughout the main plot runs the question of what it means to be a good person, and highlights the absurdity of certain religious beliefs.
I really enjoyed the narrative style. The story is told from Sam’s point of view, following his train of thought as though we are inside his head. This means we get all his views on current events, frequently interrupted by his various worries and concerns. Sam is a pure soul who just wants to go about his days ticking off his to-do list and this God thing has really thrown him off balance. I found myself really rooting for him.
Asadi’s God is a vengeful one, destroying cities, entire countries, and killing shocking numbers of people (though it is important to note that these elements are taken directly from the Bible and inserted into a modern world). Certain parts of the book were stressful to read, especially given current events between Israel and Palestine, and had me on the edge of my seat trying to figure out where the story would go next.
Ohmigod! is like nothing I’ve read before and I enjoyed it immensely.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
July 18, 2024
What really caught my eye with this book was the title itself! The story is narrated from an unreliable narrator's point of view, Sam, who also is the main protagonist. Sam's thought processes, his prejudices and his perspectives are presented in somewhat of a stream of consciousness narration style.
This book also has a lot of biblical imagery that the author has used to draw the line between what would be perceived as 'good' or 'bad'. But all of it used in a satirical manner.
The plot in itself is pretty simple. Sam is a neurodivergent character who goes around his day completing his tasks from the to-do lists. He mostly keeps to himself but has a few close friends and a close-knitted relationship with his mother. He also suffers from anxiety issues and can also be seen as a perfectionist. He always double and even triple checks on his tasks to make sure everything is perfect.
So, imagine his anxiety in an apocalyptic world where wars are being incited and countries are dissolving into nothingness. People are rioting against and targeting each other trying to prove they are the better ones. And reading about it from Sam's POV was so realistic especially in the context of today's world. Sam tells us that it's all because of a character named 'God'.
An easy life that Sam had taken for granted is challenged by the appearance of 'God'. Amidst all the chaos, destruction, forged news and social media buzz, Sam finds it difficult to believe what is true and what's make-believe. All these tough situations pushes Sam to question his own beliefs, his own criteria of judging what's wrong and what's acceptable.
Oh Mi God! deals with a lot of sensitive topics like wars, world politics, religious beliefs, homophobia among others. Sam, although an unreliable narrator, was so very real. He was honest to himself and was willing to address his biases, learn to better manage his personal struggles, and help others in tough times.
I don't think I have read a book like this before. It was completely out of my comfort zone but I liked the satirical, humorous tone of this book and the way it dealt with all the themes.
This book also has a lot of biblical imagery that the author has used to draw the line between what would be perceived as 'good' or 'bad'. But all of it used in a satirical manner.
The plot in itself is pretty simple. Sam is a neurodivergent character who goes around his day completing his tasks from the to-do lists. He mostly keeps to himself but has a few close friends and a close-knitted relationship with his mother. He also suffers from anxiety issues and can also be seen as a perfectionist. He always double and even triple checks on his tasks to make sure everything is perfect.
So, imagine his anxiety in an apocalyptic world where wars are being incited and countries are dissolving into nothingness. People are rioting against and targeting each other trying to prove they are the better ones. And reading about it from Sam's POV was so realistic especially in the context of today's world. Sam tells us that it's all because of a character named 'God'.
An easy life that Sam had taken for granted is challenged by the appearance of 'God'. Amidst all the chaos, destruction, forged news and social media buzz, Sam finds it difficult to believe what is true and what's make-believe. All these tough situations pushes Sam to question his own beliefs, his own criteria of judging what's wrong and what's acceptable.
Oh Mi God! deals with a lot of sensitive topics like wars, world politics, religious beliefs, homophobia among others. Sam, although an unreliable narrator, was so very real. He was honest to himself and was willing to address his biases, learn to better manage his personal struggles, and help others in tough times.
I don't think I have read a book like this before. It was completely out of my comfort zone but I liked the satirical, humorous tone of this book and the way it dealt with all the themes.
September 3, 2024
It is Tuesday, the bins have been collected, and god has come back to earth. As in God. Sam Dalton has enough to keep him occupied, he has his routine, and he is finally getting his garden sorted. It took him a long time to work up to getting a gardener. He can’t deal with the arrival of god, so simply hopes he will go away. God appears at first, standing in silence in the desert. All is well and good as Sam can ignore that. However, god soon makes his presence felt, with acts straight out of the Old Testament, smiting entire countries at a whim, sending plague, flooding and pestilence. This sends the world into global upheaval, but most importantly, Sam’s mum into a panic. This has the knock on effect of impacting Sam with the one thing he hates the most - change.
Forced to change his routine, and approach to life, Sam struggles to hold it together. When some of the events send him almost completely over the edge, who can he turn to for support, in his small, carefully managed world?
This was a wonderful read. Not one for those easily offended, or deeply religious who may take offence. But if you have a sense of humour, and can take it for what it is, then you will enjoy it. Our hapless narrator Sam is a neurodivergent man, obsessed with maintaining his routine. He suffers from anxiety, depression, and seriously over-thinks every element of his life. He is deeply conflicted, and struggles to understand right and wrong in social situations. Sam however, realises that god is a problem, and not just for Sam’s own carefully constructed world. Watching Sam try to navigate the upheaval, the impact of the world falling apart, is surprisingly relatable. He is endearing, and makes you want to help him understand what is going on, and are cheering him on for every bit of character growth he experiences. Really enjoyed this one, something a bit different, with a small cast of characters, who really shone, and a unique story. Ending could have been a little stronger, but overall, a break from the norm!
*I received this book from NetGalley for review, but all opinions are my own.
Forced to change his routine, and approach to life, Sam struggles to hold it together. When some of the events send him almost completely over the edge, who can he turn to for support, in his small, carefully managed world?
This was a wonderful read. Not one for those easily offended, or deeply religious who may take offence. But if you have a sense of humour, and can take it for what it is, then you will enjoy it. Our hapless narrator Sam is a neurodivergent man, obsessed with maintaining his routine. He suffers from anxiety, depression, and seriously over-thinks every element of his life. He is deeply conflicted, and struggles to understand right and wrong in social situations. Sam however, realises that god is a problem, and not just for Sam’s own carefully constructed world. Watching Sam try to navigate the upheaval, the impact of the world falling apart, is surprisingly relatable. He is endearing, and makes you want to help him understand what is going on, and are cheering him on for every bit of character growth he experiences. Really enjoyed this one, something a bit different, with a small cast of characters, who really shone, and a unique story. Ending could have been a little stronger, but overall, a break from the norm!
*I received this book from NetGalley for review, but all opinions are my own.
May 15, 2024
Oh this book! Where to even start writing a review for this. I liked it, I thought it was funny, I found it quite thought provoking, but…….I’m not so sure how readers will take it. I wonder when it was written, as I did feel that some of the ‘acts of god’ in the book are perhaps, given the current circumstances around the world, a little insensitive. The author does say somewhere that god’s actions in the book are consistent with the bible, I wouldn’t know having no interest or knowledge of what the bible includes.
I did feel there is a lot written between the lines, maybe I’ve got that wrong but it seemed like there were little digs here and there at the way a certain country behaves maybe? As for this country, well he certainly got that right. I thought the Government alert text messages telling people to stay at home, then you can go out, then….ah no sorry stay at home. That’s definitely true to life.
As far as the god bit of the book goes, I’m going to leave it at that because I feel like I’m walking on politically correct eggshells. As for the central character Sam, which the majority of the book is about and written in the first person from Sam’s point of view, I liked him. He’s funny, I loved the relationship he had with his mum and some of his everyday observations. His concern with the minutiae of simple tasks and decisions reminded me of Rob Temple’s Very British Problems. Sam is socially awkward, he prefers his own company because it’s less hassle, less to worry about. Poor Sam suffers with acute anxiety and yet as the reader you can identify with much of what worries him, I think we all have a bit of Sam in us.
It was actually the author’s bio on Amazon that made me decide to read the book. I’m glad I did. It is on the whole fairly light-hearted, it made me chuckle pretty much most of the way through the book and yet I thought the ending was quite sad.
I did feel there is a lot written between the lines, maybe I’ve got that wrong but it seemed like there were little digs here and there at the way a certain country behaves maybe? As for this country, well he certainly got that right. I thought the Government alert text messages telling people to stay at home, then you can go out, then….ah no sorry stay at home. That’s definitely true to life.
As far as the god bit of the book goes, I’m going to leave it at that because I feel like I’m walking on politically correct eggshells. As for the central character Sam, which the majority of the book is about and written in the first person from Sam’s point of view, I liked him. He’s funny, I loved the relationship he had with his mum and some of his everyday observations. His concern with the minutiae of simple tasks and decisions reminded me of Rob Temple’s Very British Problems. Sam is socially awkward, he prefers his own company because it’s less hassle, less to worry about. Poor Sam suffers with acute anxiety and yet as the reader you can identify with much of what worries him, I think we all have a bit of Sam in us.
It was actually the author’s bio on Amazon that made me decide to read the book. I’m glad I did. It is on the whole fairly light-hearted, it made me chuckle pretty much most of the way through the book and yet I thought the ending was quite sad.
May 15, 2024
This is a long, a bit ranty review, so feel free to skip to the last sentence for the only thing you really need to know.
I wish I could say anything good about this book, but I have been bored and annoyed by it almost since the beginning; I only went through it because I have been asked to provide a honest review and it seemed unfair to just call it boring after a couple of chapters and quit.
It's meant to be a half-humorous, half-inspirational story of a contemporary apocalypse (in the sense of God appearing on Earth and dispensing judgement and punishment), as seen by Sam the common man, but the protagonist is self-pitying and seemingly unable of agency; most of the time he tries to distance himself from world events and the people around him, and even when he happens to do something good it's because he's somewhat forced down a path, and just goes with it. As if this wasn't enough, the entire book is written in first person, so you're expected to identify with Sam, and most of the text keeps you prisoner of the least interesting internal dialogue I've ever read.
The surrounding cast of characters is bland and unmemorable, and both the apocalyptic events and the protagonist's arc are predictable and unidimensional. To add insult to injury, the book's afterword is a self-interview in which the author tries to justify himself for writing the book and basically mocks any readers who had to the patience to stick with him to the end.
The only constructive feedback I have for the author is to write his next book for the readers rather than (as he admits) for himself, get a good editor and listen to their advice, or maybe just stick with the technical manuals for the time being.
To anyone else, I suggest not to buy this book and get Good Omens instead.
Note: I received this book for free as an ARC from #NetGalley but - clearly! - the opinions above are mine and unbiased.
I wish I could say anything good about this book, but I have been bored and annoyed by it almost since the beginning; I only went through it because I have been asked to provide a honest review and it seemed unfair to just call it boring after a couple of chapters and quit.
It's meant to be a half-humorous, half-inspirational story of a contemporary apocalypse (in the sense of God appearing on Earth and dispensing judgement and punishment), as seen by Sam the common man, but the protagonist is self-pitying and seemingly unable of agency; most of the time he tries to distance himself from world events and the people around him, and even when he happens to do something good it's because he's somewhat forced down a path, and just goes with it. As if this wasn't enough, the entire book is written in first person, so you're expected to identify with Sam, and most of the text keeps you prisoner of the least interesting internal dialogue I've ever read.
The surrounding cast of characters is bland and unmemorable, and both the apocalyptic events and the protagonist's arc are predictable and unidimensional. To add insult to injury, the book's afterword is a self-interview in which the author tries to justify himself for writing the book and basically mocks any readers who had to the patience to stick with him to the end.
The only constructive feedback I have for the author is to write his next book for the readers rather than (as he admits) for himself, get a good editor and listen to their advice, or maybe just stick with the technical manuals for the time being.
To anyone else, I suggest not to buy this book and get Good Omens instead.
Note: I received this book for free as an ARC from #NetGalley but - clearly! - the opinions above are mine and unbiased.
June 16, 2024
First up I want to get my gripe about the book out of the way. I don't know why it bothers me so much, but the title winds me up. Not only does it misrepresent the book as some popcorn comedy, the spelling of 'my' as 'mi' got me inordinately angry. However, minor annoyances aside, Ohmigod! (*shudder*) is an engaging and thought-provoking book that I thoroughly enjoyed and have and will recommend to anyone that gives me the airtime.
Told entirely in the third person, this is the tale of Sam, a neurotic English man of an indeterminate age (or maybe it was determined and I forget) who lives through God's return and his subsequent smiting of certain groups who do not conform to the Old Testament ways. The portrayal of religion will upset some I am sure, but I think it has been handled fairly sensitively on the whole and whilst there are definite subliminal political messages to be found (such as the UK and American leaders' refusal to use the word Palestine and the non-capitalisation of the word God), it never seems to preach.
I found Sam to be as endearing as he is annoying and the small cast of supporting characters were equally welcome (mum and John in particular) as the world deals with the events how the world always does (with disagreements, bigotry and bombs in the most part, but then also with humour, humility and compassion).
The book ends with a faux interview with the author and whilst I am not 100% sure it was a wise addition; it did cover a few questions I had in my mind about the story as I read, such as would it make a good film/tv show (I think I disagree with the author on that one, which is probably what he was hoping for to be honest).
All in all, I would definitely recommend this book to people of a liberal disposition. That isn't to say I feel that others wouldn't find enjoyment, but if you are easy to offend or go looking for outrage then you will find it.
Told entirely in the third person, this is the tale of Sam, a neurotic English man of an indeterminate age (or maybe it was determined and I forget) who lives through God's return and his subsequent smiting of certain groups who do not conform to the Old Testament ways. The portrayal of religion will upset some I am sure, but I think it has been handled fairly sensitively on the whole and whilst there are definite subliminal political messages to be found (such as the UK and American leaders' refusal to use the word Palestine and the non-capitalisation of the word God), it never seems to preach.
I found Sam to be as endearing as he is annoying and the small cast of supporting characters were equally welcome (mum and John in particular) as the world deals with the events how the world always does (with disagreements, bigotry and bombs in the most part, but then also with humour, humility and compassion).
The book ends with a faux interview with the author and whilst I am not 100% sure it was a wise addition; it did cover a few questions I had in my mind about the story as I read, such as would it make a good film/tv show (I think I disagree with the author on that one, which is probably what he was hoping for to be honest).
All in all, I would definitely recommend this book to people of a liberal disposition. That isn't to say I feel that others wouldn't find enjoyment, but if you are easy to offend or go looking for outrage then you will find it.
May 11, 2024
I read the reviews of the book and thought it would be an interesting read and was quite eager to get hold of it. But once I did I was slightly disappointed, it was about what it says on the tin, so to speak, God has come down to earth for a day and it’s about what he gets up to. What it didn’t say is that there was a lot of death and destruction in there.
God has decided that Palestine isn’t to his liking and destroys the country the entire country, killing thousands upon thousands of people. So there’s of course up roaring, and America goes to war bringing the UK and other countries with it. But unfortunately, they’re unable to kill God.
So, God brings his wrath upon America and hail fire and Brimstone on Nevada Las Vegas! Again killing thousands of people and destroying the country.
But the story is really about the guy who’s perspective we see God’s actions from and how he feels about the world in general. He thinks that life is social media and everything that social media entails. but then an angel, named John, comes down because obviously God has been killed by a little girl, read the book, and angels are falling from the sky. But when John dies his whole perspective on life and who he is as a person changes.
I would say the book was well written but it could’ve been better. The punctuation was terrible in places so obviously it wasn’t proofread. But otherwise it was an okay book to read but I still gave it three stars because the premise was good although I did feel a bit funny I guess reading it, because, it was about God and the negativity that he bought.
God has decided that Palestine isn’t to his liking and destroys the country the entire country, killing thousands upon thousands of people. So there’s of course up roaring, and America goes to war bringing the UK and other countries with it. But unfortunately, they’re unable to kill God.
So, God brings his wrath upon America and hail fire and Brimstone on Nevada Las Vegas! Again killing thousands of people and destroying the country.
But the story is really about the guy who’s perspective we see God’s actions from and how he feels about the world in general. He thinks that life is social media and everything that social media entails. but then an angel, named John, comes down because obviously God has been killed by a little girl, read the book, and angels are falling from the sky. But when John dies his whole perspective on life and who he is as a person changes.
I would say the book was well written but it could’ve been better. The punctuation was terrible in places so obviously it wasn’t proofread. But otherwise it was an okay book to read but I still gave it three stars because the premise was good although I did feel a bit funny I guess reading it, because, it was about God and the negativity that he bought.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 12, 2024
Well the blurb had me intrigued I knew it would go one of 2 ways the 1st clue being God and Lord both spelt with lower case G and L. I felt the writer had an understanding of the Bible if not it's Author
I agreed to accept a free copy for an honest review and for the 1st time I wasn't able to read every page but I accepted the book on these terms so here goes. I have never reviewed a book before that I haven't read ever page wetger brought or given, so this is a 1st but as I got into chapter 8 whilst understanding in the context of the book I struggled reading with the things being said about God. I'm a Christian Aaron the author says he was raised a Catholic but now very much an Atheist., this is said at the end So no surprise we have very different views. So that said here's my review and why I gave it 3 stars
The central Character Sam is either ADHD or Autism not stated but the clues strongly point that way. This is very well writen and I love the way his interactions with others is described and his as in Sams handling of the God situation. The difference between the way he shares about his Mum, Andy the gardener and Emma the ex and Maria plus others is really well told. The way he reacts to Jimmy's podcast and Government broadcasts instructions. But obviously I personally struggle with the way the author treats God so I'm mixed so as I'm being honest and keeping my word I would say if you Worship love and are offended by mockery or offence talk about God this isn't for you but if you ain't and want some humour or creative writing then you may enjoy it.
I agreed to accept a free copy for an honest review and for the 1st time I wasn't able to read every page but I accepted the book on these terms so here goes. I have never reviewed a book before that I haven't read ever page wetger brought or given, so this is a 1st but as I got into chapter 8 whilst understanding in the context of the book I struggled reading with the things being said about God. I'm a Christian Aaron the author says he was raised a Catholic but now very much an Atheist., this is said at the end So no surprise we have very different views. So that said here's my review and why I gave it 3 stars
The central Character Sam is either ADHD or Autism not stated but the clues strongly point that way. This is very well writen and I love the way his interactions with others is described and his as in Sams handling of the God situation. The difference between the way he shares about his Mum, Andy the gardener and Emma the ex and Maria plus others is really well told. The way he reacts to Jimmy's podcast and Government broadcasts instructions. But obviously I personally struggle with the way the author treats God so I'm mixed so as I'm being honest and keeping my word I would say if you Worship love and are offended by mockery or offence talk about God this isn't for you but if you ain't and want some humour or creative writing then you may enjoy it.
June 10, 2024
When I started reading this book I wondered why I had requested it - god has come to earth, this guy is wittering about putting out bins. But then Sam began to grow on me, and I realised we had a lot in common - dislike of situations with people, especially making small talk in shops, liking order and routine!
So Sam is clearly a little on the spectrum, lives his life happily, albeit not really being true to himself, as his possible 'girlfriend' has split from him and his mother keeps careful tabs on what he's doing and he worries and overthinks every decision he is faced with. But then god arrives and starts making trouble, inciting wars and eliminating nations. Sam has his work cut out to just survive, but mum wants to go to visit his father's grave (the father who sounds a real charmer). So he reluctantly drives her only as another plague, this time targetting gays, arrives.
Sam's struggles and triumphs (and especially when he saves the young woman) are just glorious, and by the end I was thoroughly enjoying the book. It provides food for thought on many levels (who does 'god' belong to?). A different, left-field sort of book that will both challenge and entertain. And as a practising Christian I welcomed the opportunity to view religion through another lens.
Thank you to NetGalley and Little Orchard Publishing Ltd for allowing me access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
So Sam is clearly a little on the spectrum, lives his life happily, albeit not really being true to himself, as his possible 'girlfriend' has split from him and his mother keeps careful tabs on what he's doing and he worries and overthinks every decision he is faced with. But then god arrives and starts making trouble, inciting wars and eliminating nations. Sam has his work cut out to just survive, but mum wants to go to visit his father's grave (the father who sounds a real charmer). So he reluctantly drives her only as another plague, this time targetting gays, arrives.
Sam's struggles and triumphs (and especially when he saves the young woman) are just glorious, and by the end I was thoroughly enjoying the book. It provides food for thought on many levels (who does 'god' belong to?). A different, left-field sort of book that will both challenge and entertain. And as a practising Christian I welcomed the opportunity to view religion through another lens.
Thank you to NetGalley and Little Orchard Publishing Ltd for allowing me access to the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 30, 2024
This is a highly unique concept for a book that captures many themes and will have you hooked from page one and thinking long after you are finished with it! Aaron Asadi takes the idea of god returning and the impact that is has on the world, the governments, and individuals through the lens of a man clinging to his routine.
“Ohmigod!” follows Sam Dalton, just a regular man who loves routine, has a list he needs to complete, and overthinks social interactions with the best of them. The progression of the events since god has returned continues to push Sam to examine his life as he fights to maintain normalcy as best he can. Throughout the building tension, Sam finds himself in situations that have him seeing the difference of right vs. wrong, acceptance of others, and the importance of helping others when you can. Sam’s representation of anxiety, low self-image, and depression make him a highly relatable character for many readers while the steam-of-consciousness feeling thoughts is refreshing as he is trying his best to navigate as best he can.
The author’s take on more Old Testament plagues and the portrayal of society through governmental reaction, social media, and news outlets show the dedication and care that he used while writing such a sensitive topic. This is a fantastic read that I would highly recommend to all!
“Ohmigod!” follows Sam Dalton, just a regular man who loves routine, has a list he needs to complete, and overthinks social interactions with the best of them. The progression of the events since god has returned continues to push Sam to examine his life as he fights to maintain normalcy as best he can. Throughout the building tension, Sam finds himself in situations that have him seeing the difference of right vs. wrong, acceptance of others, and the importance of helping others when you can. Sam’s representation of anxiety, low self-image, and depression make him a highly relatable character for many readers while the steam-of-consciousness feeling thoughts is refreshing as he is trying his best to navigate as best he can.
The author’s take on more Old Testament plagues and the portrayal of society through governmental reaction, social media, and news outlets show the dedication and care that he used while writing such a sensitive topic. This is a fantastic read that I would highly recommend to all!
July 16, 2024
I was intrigued by the synopsis of this book and wasn't disappointed.
God comes back to earth on the day the bins are emptied. God is not happy and destroys entire countries and cities, killing hundreds of thousands of people as he gets his revenge on groups of people who do not follow his Old Testament teachings. The story is narrated by Sam, a neuro divergent single man, who overthinks just about everything. I did feel uncomfortable reading about some of the acts of God, especially regarding Palestine, however the entire God thing felt like more of a vehicle to enable Sam's story to be written. Lonely and sad, needing to keep to his routines, Sam tries to navigate his way through the turmoil and do the right thing to support his mum and others.
I had so much empathy for Sam and at times my heart broke for him. Continually questioning his everyday exchanges, wondering if there is a point to his being. Sam's story is told with sensitivity and understanding, which despite the enormity of God's return to earth and the impact this has on Sam, is of a neuro divergent trying to cope in a neuro typical world.
I highly recommend this book with the caveat that if you are easily offended it may not be for you.
God comes back to earth on the day the bins are emptied. God is not happy and destroys entire countries and cities, killing hundreds of thousands of people as he gets his revenge on groups of people who do not follow his Old Testament teachings. The story is narrated by Sam, a neuro divergent single man, who overthinks just about everything. I did feel uncomfortable reading about some of the acts of God, especially regarding Palestine, however the entire God thing felt like more of a vehicle to enable Sam's story to be written. Lonely and sad, needing to keep to his routines, Sam tries to navigate his way through the turmoil and do the right thing to support his mum and others.
I had so much empathy for Sam and at times my heart broke for him. Continually questioning his everyday exchanges, wondering if there is a point to his being. Sam's story is told with sensitivity and understanding, which despite the enormity of God's return to earth and the impact this has on Sam, is of a neuro divergent trying to cope in a neuro typical world.
I highly recommend this book with the caveat that if you are easily offended it may not be for you.
May 18, 2024
Wasn’t sure what to make of this book at first. It’s narrated by Sam who is fixated on bin day, should he put the bins out, will the neighbours put their bins out, he always puts the bins out on Tuesday. So why is he fixated? Well, he’s on the spectrum but there’s more to his fixation - it seems that god has returned.
This god is not a pleased god. This god proceeds to wage his revengeful displeasure in humanity by creating disasters of biblical proportions. All of this is upsetting to Sam as he needs his structure and routines. What warmed me to Sam was his interactions with other characters, Andy the gardener, Maria, his mother, and his ex-girlfriend Emma.
Hat’s off to the author for tackling subjects like religion, refugees, immigration, war, greed and the likes in such a manner; also for posing the situation of humanity declaring war on god. I did however find Sam’s never ceasing repetitive stream of consciousness too much for me. The author’s interview at the end was distasteful.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the copy of this book
This god is not a pleased god. This god proceeds to wage his revengeful displeasure in humanity by creating disasters of biblical proportions. All of this is upsetting to Sam as he needs his structure and routines. What warmed me to Sam was his interactions with other characters, Andy the gardener, Maria, his mother, and his ex-girlfriend Emma.
Hat’s off to the author for tackling subjects like religion, refugees, immigration, war, greed and the likes in such a manner; also for posing the situation of humanity declaring war on god. I did however find Sam’s never ceasing repetitive stream of consciousness too much for me. The author’s interview at the end was distasteful.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the copy of this book
June 3, 2024
I was rather intrigued by the concept and blurb for this book which is why I decided to read it. I’d consider myself agnostic so I knew I wouldn’t be offended by this book, but I’m not sure believers in God would necessarily feel the same, so probably not a read for them. I liked the character of Sam and thought he was well drawn. He’s obviously on the autistic spectrum and I thought the way he’s portrayed was very clever. The book flies quite close to some sensitive political issues. I found myself reflecting that religion has been responsible for a great deal of war and conflict throughout history and God in this book certainly isn’t a very nice God who’s considerate and respectful of everyone. Overall, it was Sam who drew me in and the way he navigated daily life and grew in his understanding of himself through the story.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an arc in exchange for a review.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an arc in exchange for a review.
March 30, 2025
This is a very interesting book with a very unusual premise - I found it intriguing and was interested to see how it was tackled.
I like the author's writing style, it made the story easy to read even with the parts that were a lot harder to digest and wrap your head around. I am not especially religious myself and do not align myself with any particular faith or denomination, but I can understand how someone with more closely-held views may find certain parts of this book disturbing or upsetting.
I think the sections relating to the world's reaction to God's return and the aftermath had a realistic feel to them (especially after the pandemic and realising how much people will still people no matter what).
Thought provoking and definitely gives some food for thought. I thought the first half was relatively slow paced and then the second half was maybe a bit too quick to try to bring everything to a close? For me the book overall was ok, but it could have been great.
I like the author's writing style, it made the story easy to read even with the parts that were a lot harder to digest and wrap your head around. I am not especially religious myself and do not align myself with any particular faith or denomination, but I can understand how someone with more closely-held views may find certain parts of this book disturbing or upsetting.
I think the sections relating to the world's reaction to God's return and the aftermath had a realistic feel to them (especially after the pandemic and realising how much people will still people no matter what).
Thought provoking and definitely gives some food for thought. I thought the first half was relatively slow paced and then the second half was maybe a bit too quick to try to bring everything to a close? For me the book overall was ok, but it could have been great.
May 10, 2024
Thanks to #NetGalley for an #ARC of #OhMiGod #atheism.
Looking at reviews before I read this, many of the said this book was odd, unusual. Having read the book, I definitely understand. The book follows Sam who struggles with social interaction and filling his time. All of a sudden time is filled with Internet and news items about God appearing. Sam tries to maneuver through this time, which isn't exactly all sunshine and roses.
It would be difficult to recommend this book without knows a person's religious stance. However I do have to say I was drawn into the writing, feeling all of Sam's anxiety and struggles, and I was interested to see how the hypothetical return of a higher being would play out.
I couldn't say I liked this book, but I'm glad I read it and I would like to read more by this author.
(Sidenote: I didn't enjoy some of the interview at the end, it was mean)
Looking at reviews before I read this, many of the said this book was odd, unusual. Having read the book, I definitely understand. The book follows Sam who struggles with social interaction and filling his time. All of a sudden time is filled with Internet and news items about God appearing. Sam tries to maneuver through this time, which isn't exactly all sunshine and roses.
It would be difficult to recommend this book without knows a person's religious stance. However I do have to say I was drawn into the writing, feeling all of Sam's anxiety and struggles, and I was interested to see how the hypothetical return of a higher being would play out.
I couldn't say I liked this book, but I'm glad I read it and I would like to read more by this author.
(Sidenote: I didn't enjoy some of the interview at the end, it was mean)
July 5, 2025
God comes back on trash day...fantastik. and then apparently God wants to destroy Egypt and hates Palestine...what?!!! can't bear with this book, it's just too bad.
DNF.
it's gonna be interesting to see the karmic-payback the author gets for this book...it seems he was way too happy to write something offensive...he's an atheist, he insists on informing us, so he must feel self-righteous with writing this...oh, and since he doesn't believe in anything, it must mean karma won't affect him, i'm sure that's how it goes, reality must usually be what people prefer...
i hope for his sake he is actually an atheist and not another hypocrite who wants to feel superior by implying intellectual superiority over religious people when telling others he's "atheist" but still prays to the universe in difficult situations and hopes to manifest some whatever...request denied after this "bin" book.
DNF.
it's gonna be interesting to see the karmic-payback the author gets for this book...it seems he was way too happy to write something offensive...he's an atheist, he insists on informing us, so he must feel self-righteous with writing this...oh, and since he doesn't believe in anything, it must mean karma won't affect him, i'm sure that's how it goes, reality must usually be what people prefer...
i hope for his sake he is actually an atheist and not another hypocrite who wants to feel superior by implying intellectual superiority over religious people when telling others he's "atheist" but still prays to the universe in difficult situations and hopes to manifest some whatever...request denied after this "bin" book.
June 5, 2024
Humorous and heartbreaking, this novel has a wonderfully engaging and unique voice. Sam, the protagonist, offers us great insight into living with anxiety and being neurodivergent, and his challenges and reactions are at the heart of the book. Anyone who has lived through the covid pandemic will be able to relate to this thematic exploration of feeling left behind by global events, and how the everyday clashes with the extraordinary.
The plot and themes are controversial, relevant, and presented with a dry wit. The characterisation is marvellous.
On the downside, the prose is somewhat baggy which makes it drag in places, and it needs proofreading - but it's well worth persevering as the ending is emotionally charged and so quintessentially human.
The plot and themes are controversial, relevant, and presented with a dry wit. The characterisation is marvellous.
On the downside, the prose is somewhat baggy which makes it drag in places, and it needs proofreading - but it's well worth persevering as the ending is emotionally charged and so quintessentially human.
June 9, 2024
This is an interesting and thought provoking read centred around a neurodivergent character called Sam. I really identified with Sam and his inner dialogue and anxieties. Sam likes his routines, and puts a lot of thought into things like when to put the bins out and if he should tidy up before the cleaner arrives.
Sam's life is turned upside down when God appears on earth. No one knows why God has returned but it quickly becomes apparent that this is the vengeful, old testament God. This is not good for Sam as he must navigate his social anxieties in an ever changing world.
A humorous, satirical, provocative read but one that won't appeal to everyone.
✴️I received an ARC from Netgalley✴️
Sam's life is turned upside down when God appears on earth. No one knows why God has returned but it quickly becomes apparent that this is the vengeful, old testament God. This is not good for Sam as he must navigate his social anxieties in an ever changing world.
A humorous, satirical, provocative read but one that won't appeal to everyone.
✴️I received an ARC from Netgalley✴️
June 10, 2024
Loved the whole concept of this very original book, did make me question why there aren’t more stories like this. How would we deal with God if he was suddenly among us in this century? Bizarrely brilliant for believers and non believers alike. Great focus on both sides. The second half of the book was a bit slower than the first, but not sure if that’s just because of the first half being so unpredictable making me want to binge read through.
Overall really enjoyable read, would recommend.
Overall really enjoyable read, would recommend.
May 7, 2024
Honestly when I first saw this I was intrigued. A normal man wanting to do house chores and God re appears. Sign me up. I found the book very enjoyable.
I received this ARC via Netgalley and I'm voluntarily leaving this review.
I received this ARC via Netgalley and I'm voluntarily leaving this review.
June 8, 2024
It was ok. The story was good I just didn't enjoy the writing style.
June 26, 2024
The Old Testament god comes to earth… and he’s not that great a thing. Who’d have predicted that
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 6, 2024
I did try to get into this as the premise sounded intriguing but in the end I gave up. In many respects I found it difficult to read the book and detach from the things going on in Gaza. It made me feel uncomfortable. Thanks to Netgallery & the publisher for letting me try to read this book.
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