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Some Assembly Required
Everyone wishes they were dead when wandering the purgatory of a home furnishings store, but these guys actually are.
Benji Goss is the quintessential good guy. When his boyfriend dumps him and moves out, Benji obligingly keeps the cat—even though he’s allergic—because his ex’s new place doesn’t accept pets. He’s always joked the cat would be the death of him, but not in a way he expects when a feline mishap crushes him under a DEL TORO bookcase.
Snarky loner Patrick Bryant is in such a rut he barely remembers the life he used to lead. The last thing he recalls is being decapitated by a DEL TORO bookcase in a freak accident. As a spiritual CASA resident, he haunts the aisles of affordable Italian furniture, assisting fellow spirits in moving on to their final destinations.
When Benji appears in the CASA café, Patrick considers the naïve spirit just the man to cure his boredom. Benji’s relentless optimism chips away at Patrick’s sarcasm, making him question if there’s something beyond what he can see. But the heart is like CASA furniture—there’s always some assembly required.
Benji Goss is the quintessential good guy. When his boyfriend dumps him and moves out, Benji obligingly keeps the cat—even though he’s allergic—because his ex’s new place doesn’t accept pets. He’s always joked the cat would be the death of him, but not in a way he expects when a feline mishap crushes him under a DEL TORO bookcase.
Snarky loner Patrick Bryant is in such a rut he barely remembers the life he used to lead. The last thing he recalls is being decapitated by a DEL TORO bookcase in a freak accident. As a spiritual CASA resident, he haunts the aisles of affordable Italian furniture, assisting fellow spirits in moving on to their final destinations.
When Benji appears in the CASA café, Patrick considers the naïve spirit just the man to cure his boredom. Benji’s relentless optimism chips away at Patrick’s sarcasm, making him question if there’s something beyond what he can see. But the heart is like CASA furniture—there’s always some assembly required.
210 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 8, 2016
2 people are currently reading
180 people want to read
About the author
Lex Chase
16 books60 followersLex Chase once heard Stephen King say in a commercial, “We’re all going to die, I’m just trying to make it a little more interesting.” Now, she’s on a mission to make the world a hell of a lot more interesting.
Weaving tales of cinematic, sweeping adventure—and depending on how she feels that day—Lex sprinkles in high-speed chases, shower scenes, and more explosions than a Hollywood blockbuster. Her pride is in telling stories of men who kiss as much as they kick ass. If you’re going to march into the depths of hell, it better be beside the one you love.
Lex is a pop culture diva, her DVR is constantly backlogged, she has intense emotions about Hannibal’s Hannigram, and unapologetically loved the ending of Lost. She wouldn’t last five minutes without technology in the event of the apocalypse and has nightmares about refusing to leave her cats behind.
She is grateful for and humbled by all the readers. She knows very well she wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for them and welcomes feedback.
You can find her on those Facebook and Twitter things at:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LXChase
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Lex_Chase
Find her blog at http://lexchase.com
Weaving tales of cinematic, sweeping adventure—and depending on how she feels that day—Lex sprinkles in high-speed chases, shower scenes, and more explosions than a Hollywood blockbuster. Her pride is in telling stories of men who kiss as much as they kick ass. If you’re going to march into the depths of hell, it better be beside the one you love.
Lex is a pop culture diva, her DVR is constantly backlogged, she has intense emotions about Hannibal’s Hannigram, and unapologetically loved the ending of Lost. She wouldn’t last five minutes without technology in the event of the apocalypse and has nightmares about refusing to leave her cats behind.
She is grateful for and humbled by all the readers. She knows very well she wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for them and welcomes feedback.
You can find her on those Facebook and Twitter things at:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LXChase
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Lex_Chase
Find her blog at http://lexchase.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
August 30, 2016
Some Assembly Required is unlike any M/M romance I've read.
For one, both MCs are dead, ghosts if you will but with a corporal sense of themselves. They can eat and cry. They can move objects and change clothes at will. They can touch and smell.
They hang out in CASA (the fictional version of IKEA), a sort of purgatory for lost souls. The concepts of heaven and hell are vaguely sketched but heavily based on Christian philosophy.
Souls get stuck in CASA because they need to find closure before they can graduate to a better place. Every ghost who ends up in CASA was in some way killed by a CASA product, and there are thousands of them (although most don't linger).
This begs the question: Wouldn't CASA have several class action lawsuits on its hands? How are they still in business if their products are killing so many people?
Patrick has been at CASA for a long while (he dubs himself Employee of the Decade) when he meets sweet, innocent Benji, a new soul who's especially cognizant of who he is and why he's there. Patrick hides a world of hurt behind his snarky facade, but Benji makes him laugh and feel again.
It took me a while to get into this story, but I couldn't not love Patrick and Benji, especially Benji, a kindergarten teacher dumped by a man he loved and killed by a CASA bookshelf he poignantly bought as a present for himself.
When Benji runs into his ex shopping at CASA with his husband and daughter, he has an epiphany of sorts and can finally move on. The scene with Benji and Charles was incredibly poignant, rivaled only by the last chapter when Patrick finally surrenders and leads Benji to the light.
There is a long slow burn between Patrick and Benji, but the coming together at the end is beautiful and EXPLOSIVE.
I found parts of this story confusing. I still have no idea who Agnes and Henry were: angels? I also wanted to know more about Patrick's life before he died. Even so, I'm giving this book 4 stars because of the genuine emotions it invokes.
So is there an end after the end, a HEA after death? Walk out the door and see. The robins are still there.
For one, both MCs are dead, ghosts if you will but with a corporal sense of themselves. They can eat and cry. They can move objects and change clothes at will. They can touch and smell.
They hang out in CASA (the fictional version of IKEA), a sort of purgatory for lost souls. The concepts of heaven and hell are vaguely sketched but heavily based on Christian philosophy.
Souls get stuck in CASA because they need to find closure before they can graduate to a better place. Every ghost who ends up in CASA was in some way killed by a CASA product, and there are thousands of them (although most don't linger).
This begs the question: Wouldn't CASA have several class action lawsuits on its hands? How are they still in business if their products are killing so many people?
Patrick has been at CASA for a long while (he dubs himself Employee of the Decade) when he meets sweet, innocent Benji, a new soul who's especially cognizant of who he is and why he's there. Patrick hides a world of hurt behind his snarky facade, but Benji makes him laugh and feel again.
It took me a while to get into this story, but I couldn't not love Patrick and Benji, especially Benji, a kindergarten teacher dumped by a man he loved and killed by a CASA bookshelf he poignantly bought as a present for himself.
When Benji runs into his ex shopping at CASA with his husband and daughter, he has an epiphany of sorts and can finally move on. The scene with Benji and Charles was incredibly poignant, rivaled only by the last chapter when Patrick finally surrenders and leads Benji to the light.
There is a long slow burn between Patrick and Benji, but the coming together at the end is beautiful and EXPLOSIVE.
I found parts of this story confusing. I still have no idea who Agnes and Henry were: angels? I also wanted to know more about Patrick's life before he died. Even so, I'm giving this book 4 stars because of the genuine emotions it invokes.
So is there an end after the end, a HEA after death? Walk out the door and see. The robins are still there.
April 29, 2016
4/5 stars
No good deed goes unpunished.
At least, that's the case for Benji, who was crushed under a bookcase while trying to help out his neighbor. Now he's wandering the aisles of CASA; where all good spirits go when they meet their unfortunate end at the hands CASA furniture. He'll either accomplish what he needs to, in order to move on, or he'll help save the lives of others from CASA doom. In the meantime, he has Patrick to keep him occupied.
Patrick has been a ghostly guide at CASA for so long that he's forgotten that there's more to his afterlife than helping the newly departed move on. He takes one look at Benji and thinks he'll be a bit of passing fun, but Benji's kindness and innocence slowly chip away at the enormous walls that Patrick has built up around himself. Patrick has rules that he lives by, and now he's breaking all of them.
And he doesn't like it.
No matter how many times he deflects, taunts, or pushes Benji away, it's all for nothing. Benji is wiggling his way into his heart, and their slow burning chemistry becomes downright explosive when Patrick finally gives in.
Like, literally explosive.
But it's more than just the slow burning chemistry these two have. Benji's patience is undeniably sexy, and watching him chip away Patrick's resolve makes this read all the more worth it.
Sometimes, it's not just the furniture that needs fixing, but a person's heart and soul.
And that delightful Epilogue? It was utter perfection on an already enjoyable read.
A really great twist on a ghost story that still has me smiling, and oddly, craving IKEA meatballs.
Highly recommended.
Read this review and others at
No good deed goes unpunished.
At least, that's the case for Benji, who was crushed under a bookcase while trying to help out his neighbor. Now he's wandering the aisles of CASA; where all good spirits go when they meet their unfortunate end at the hands CASA furniture. He'll either accomplish what he needs to, in order to move on, or he'll help save the lives of others from CASA doom. In the meantime, he has Patrick to keep him occupied.
Patrick has been a ghostly guide at CASA for so long that he's forgotten that there's more to his afterlife than helping the newly departed move on. He takes one look at Benji and thinks he'll be a bit of passing fun, but Benji's kindness and innocence slowly chip away at the enormous walls that Patrick has built up around himself. Patrick has rules that he lives by, and now he's breaking all of them.
And he doesn't like it.
No matter how many times he deflects, taunts, or pushes Benji away, it's all for nothing. Benji is wiggling his way into his heart, and their slow burning chemistry becomes downright explosive when Patrick finally gives in.
Like, literally explosive.
But it's more than just the slow burning chemistry these two have. Benji's patience is undeniably sexy, and watching him chip away Patrick's resolve makes this read all the more worth it.
"You deserve good things. You deserve a second chance, and a third one. You deserve all the chances you need to get it right, because you are kind and compassionate. You're a beautiful person inside and out ... If you could see what I see, Patrick, you'd have moved on years ago."
Sometimes, it's not just the furniture that needs fixing, but a person's heart and soul.
"Life is a lot like CASA furniture. It comes in pieces, and some assembly is required."You know what else is required? A tissue. Or three. Behind all that snark, pranks, and deliberate vagueness, was an unexpected tenderness that kicked me right in the feels. There's healing in this book, and despite a tear shed here and there, it'll leave you with a big smile.
And that delightful Epilogue? It was utter perfection on an already enjoyable read.
A really great twist on a ghost story that still has me smiling, and oddly, craving IKEA meatballs.
Highly recommended.
Read this review and others at
February 9, 2016
It’s not often I read stories involving ghosts. I enjoy it when I do, most of the time, but usually the ghosts are part of some sort of paranormal investigation. This book, however, breaks those rules, and I must say it was not only entertaining but unique.
Both Benji and Patrick are ghosts. Having been killed by CASA brand furniture, they reside in the purgatory that is CASA, helping other ghosts—or Impressions—prevent similar accidents from killing more people before they are able to pass on. Patrick and Benji are different, however, and don’t pass. Neither do Karin or Agnes.
When Benji ends up at CASA, he is drawn to Patrick, and after what feels like a whirlwind ghostly romance, the two continue to dance around each other. But as Benji soon—or not, as the case may be—discovers, time moves differently in CASA when one is dead.
There are three stores in this book that represent the various stages of the afterlife. CASA is purgatory, Wallville is hell, and Scope appears to be heaven. It shouldn’t be too difficult for readers to figure out what those stores are modeled after, especially when the logos and signature colors are revealed, and I must say I got quite a good laugh—several times—at the jibes thrown at Wallville. It was clever and made the story that much stronger.
Quite a few moments of the book, especially at the end, left me aching for Benji and Patrick. When Benji makes a few startling discoveries, which I cannot reveal without giving too much away, I teared up and, in one case, cried for him. Patrick’s revelation was a little more difficult for me to understand, but no less heartbreaking.
And the passion! This book contains one of the most, if not the most intense love scene I have ever read in romance. Lex Chase and Bru Baker truly did a remarkable job of describing what Benji and Patrick were experiencing, and it quite literally took my breath away. I read through it once quickly, in the moment with the boys nearly as frenzied as they were, and then went back to reread it for the brilliant details the authors included. I may have even had to fan myself after one of the readings, but I plead the fifth on that one.
Whether or not you are a fan of paranormal stories, this is one that is not to be missed. It’s full of fun characters from the main heroes Benji and Patrick to the enigmatic Agnes and the long-suffering guide, Karin. There’s also the mysterious Henry, who just sits in the CASA café, pushing around meatballs and leaving out crossword puzzles. Is he human or ghost? Patrick certainly can’t figure him out, and their interactions (or lack of them) are amusing.
I highly recommend this book and look forward to more collaborations from these authors.
Reviewed by Jennifer for The Novel Approach
http://www.thenovelapproachreviews.co...
Both Benji and Patrick are ghosts. Having been killed by CASA brand furniture, they reside in the purgatory that is CASA, helping other ghosts—or Impressions—prevent similar accidents from killing more people before they are able to pass on. Patrick and Benji are different, however, and don’t pass. Neither do Karin or Agnes.
When Benji ends up at CASA, he is drawn to Patrick, and after what feels like a whirlwind ghostly romance, the two continue to dance around each other. But as Benji soon—or not, as the case may be—discovers, time moves differently in CASA when one is dead.
There are three stores in this book that represent the various stages of the afterlife. CASA is purgatory, Wallville is hell, and Scope appears to be heaven. It shouldn’t be too difficult for readers to figure out what those stores are modeled after, especially when the logos and signature colors are revealed, and I must say I got quite a good laugh—several times—at the jibes thrown at Wallville. It was clever and made the story that much stronger.
Quite a few moments of the book, especially at the end, left me aching for Benji and Patrick. When Benji makes a few startling discoveries, which I cannot reveal without giving too much away, I teared up and, in one case, cried for him. Patrick’s revelation was a little more difficult for me to understand, but no less heartbreaking.
And the passion! This book contains one of the most, if not the most intense love scene I have ever read in romance. Lex Chase and Bru Baker truly did a remarkable job of describing what Benji and Patrick were experiencing, and it quite literally took my breath away. I read through it once quickly, in the moment with the boys nearly as frenzied as they were, and then went back to reread it for the brilliant details the authors included. I may have even had to fan myself after one of the readings, but I plead the fifth on that one.
Whether or not you are a fan of paranormal stories, this is one that is not to be missed. It’s full of fun characters from the main heroes Benji and Patrick to the enigmatic Agnes and the long-suffering guide, Karin. There’s also the mysterious Henry, who just sits in the CASA café, pushing around meatballs and leaving out crossword puzzles. Is he human or ghost? Patrick certainly can’t figure him out, and their interactions (or lack of them) are amusing.
I highly recommend this book and look forward to more collaborations from these authors.
Reviewed by Jennifer for The Novel Approach
http://www.thenovelapproachreviews.co...
February 10, 2016
‘Some Assembly Required’ is a unique book with its concept of purgatory as a home furnishings store and a humorous approach to the people (or are they ghosts?) who inhabit it that made me laugh out loud more than once. There are probably as many concepts about what the afterlife is like as there are people who believe in it, but this specific one is so modern and relatable that it had me in stitches. And as for a ghost story - most of which are either scary, creepy, or sad - this one is “none of the above” and excellent entertainment instead.
Benji is such a nice, likable character that he and his worries pulled me right into the story. He loves animals to the point that he kept the ex’s cat despite the fact he is allergic, he is a kindergarten teacher, and is trying desperately to get over his boyfriend leaving him. I felt for him in life – and even more so in death. How horrible to come to in the store that made the DEL TORO bookcase that killed him. Benji has no idea what is going on, and I loved learning how everything works alongside him.
Patrick, while I found him more difficult to understand initially, has not fared much better. He too was killed by a DEL TORO bookcase, but it’s been a while, and he has been working in the store that produces DEL TORO bookcases and other affordable furniture. He is a prankster, seems to take nothing seriously, and has a definite bad boy vibe that intrigued me. He helps fellow spirits move on to their final destination, but he is jaded and bored, no longer believing in an afterlife beyond where he is now.
Benji makes Patrick question what he’s been up to. It takes a while, but as the two men get to know each other, they begin to realize they not only mean a lot to each other but also may be able to “move on” together. Their journey of realization is filled with humor, sarcasm, and great observations about human nature. And the ending is just perfect!
If you like stories about the afterlife, if you prefer your ghosts to have a sense of humor, and if you’re looking for a read that is hilariously funny yet wonderfully emotional and romantic at the same time, then you will probably like this novel as much as I did. It’s great whether you want something to cheer you up, or whether you’re just looking for a great laugh.
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Benji is such a nice, likable character that he and his worries pulled me right into the story. He loves animals to the point that he kept the ex’s cat despite the fact he is allergic, he is a kindergarten teacher, and is trying desperately to get over his boyfriend leaving him. I felt for him in life – and even more so in death. How horrible to come to in the store that made the DEL TORO bookcase that killed him. Benji has no idea what is going on, and I loved learning how everything works alongside him.
Patrick, while I found him more difficult to understand initially, has not fared much better. He too was killed by a DEL TORO bookcase, but it’s been a while, and he has been working in the store that produces DEL TORO bookcases and other affordable furniture. He is a prankster, seems to take nothing seriously, and has a definite bad boy vibe that intrigued me. He helps fellow spirits move on to their final destination, but he is jaded and bored, no longer believing in an afterlife beyond where he is now.
Benji makes Patrick question what he’s been up to. It takes a while, but as the two men get to know each other, they begin to realize they not only mean a lot to each other but also may be able to “move on” together. Their journey of realization is filled with humor, sarcasm, and great observations about human nature. And the ending is just perfect!
If you like stories about the afterlife, if you prefer your ghosts to have a sense of humor, and if you’re looking for a read that is hilariously funny yet wonderfully emotional and romantic at the same time, then you will probably like this novel as much as I did. It’s great whether you want something to cheer you up, or whether you’re just looking for a great laugh.
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
February 8, 2016
I was given an ARC copy of this book for an honest review.
This book is an unholy marriage of What Dreams May Come & Reaper (one of my favorite tv shows)! It's clever, sarcastic, funny, heartfelt, slow burn romance.
What if the afterlife is a series of big-box stores, and the employees are your guides? Can you find your soulmate while shopping for low price furniture?
Benji's an earnest kindergarten teacher who lands in his favorite store after he's crushed to death by his bookcase.
Patrick's a guide, moving spirits on to whatever heaven/nirvana they're destined for. He see's Benji as a fleeting distraction from his endless days, but they end up being so much more.
The characters are all well rounded & fully fleshed out, even the secondary ones! The world the authors have built is well thought out.
I'm always nervous reading the first efforts of a new co-author team, but Lex & Bru worked together seamlessly. The story just flows like a chocolate fountain at a wedding reception.
I loved this story from start to finish (and I'm hard to please), it was so hard to put down!
This book is an unholy marriage of What Dreams May Come & Reaper (one of my favorite tv shows)! It's clever, sarcastic, funny, heartfelt, slow burn romance.
What if the afterlife is a series of big-box stores, and the employees are your guides? Can you find your soulmate while shopping for low price furniture?
Benji's an earnest kindergarten teacher who lands in his favorite store after he's crushed to death by his bookcase.
Patrick's a guide, moving spirits on to whatever heaven/nirvana they're destined for. He see's Benji as a fleeting distraction from his endless days, but they end up being so much more.
The characters are all well rounded & fully fleshed out, even the secondary ones! The world the authors have built is well thought out.
I'm always nervous reading the first efforts of a new co-author team, but Lex & Bru worked together seamlessly. The story just flows like a chocolate fountain at a wedding reception.
I loved this story from start to finish (and I'm hard to please), it was so hard to put down!
March 14, 2016
3.5 stars
Very unique story but I don't think I was in the proper frame of mind for it! Too many distractions and stresses in RL made it too hard to focus. As a result, I didn't completely understand everything that was going on and I didn't have as much of a connection with the romance as I'd like. I guess what I'm saying is it was probably just me.
Very unique story but I don't think I was in the proper frame of mind for it! Too many distractions and stresses in RL made it too hard to focus. As a result, I didn't completely understand everything that was going on and I didn't have as much of a connection with the romance as I'd like. I guess what I'm saying is it was probably just me.
February 24, 2016
Poor Benji isn’t having a good day or … life… or death. He’s been dumped by his long term boyfriend and is now being bugged by his mother to move on and then… well… then he dies.
Benji ends up in a place called CASA (remarkably like Ikea) where he meets Patrick. Patrick is a “full time employee” of CASA and his reluctant and question-avoiding Guide.
Patrick – with the help of Karin and Agnes- eventually gives Benji the information he needs to know while living in CASA and together they help lost “souls” find their way to their next landing spot.
Patrick is determined not to be attracted to Benji – he knows love isn’t real – especially not in CASA – but it’s hard because Benji pushes all of his buttons.
Benji was a pushover in life and he’s determined to be different now – but he wants Patrick and he wants what’s best for both of them.
Eventually the time comes for a decision and these two lost “souls” must decide their next step.
**
This was hysterical! You have to bring your A game though – this isn’t a book to skim or breeze through. There were several passages I had to go back and forth between to get the nuance and to figure things out. There’s a lot of symbolism and metaphors and pop culture in this book and (I’ll admit) sometimes it was hard to catch them all… but those I did catch were really funny!
I loved the snarkiness of Patrick and his eventual breakthrough – so rewarding! Benji also found his own strength and determination and that was very special, too.
The world –building was both fascinating and maybe a little underexplained. I had to work to figure out what was what (nothing wrong with that) but once I had it sorted I thought it was brilliant. Having to tread lightly on copyright laws, the authors can’t say that Ikea is purgatory and Walmart is Hell and Target is Heaven… but I can! (I think?!)
Using that as an analogy and the entire Ikea catalog as a reference point, Benji and Patrick help these lost souls find their path in ways that are often ironic and sweet at the same time. (I have to admit I got overwhelmed by all the NAMES IN CAPS of the furniture… not having an extensive Ikea literacy maybe held me back here…) In any case the love story between these guys is sweet if subtle, the humor is abundant, the world-building (especially spectral sex) is creative and unique and the overall message really solid and heartwarming – Love is a leap of faith.
I highly recommend this unique book to fans of humor, pop culture, ghosts and creative love stories.
4.5 of 5 stars
Benji ends up in a place called CASA (remarkably like Ikea) where he meets Patrick. Patrick is a “full time employee” of CASA and his reluctant and question-avoiding Guide.
Patrick – with the help of Karin and Agnes- eventually gives Benji the information he needs to know while living in CASA and together they help lost “souls” find their way to their next landing spot.
Patrick is determined not to be attracted to Benji – he knows love isn’t real – especially not in CASA – but it’s hard because Benji pushes all of his buttons.
Benji was a pushover in life and he’s determined to be different now – but he wants Patrick and he wants what’s best for both of them.
Eventually the time comes for a decision and these two lost “souls” must decide their next step.
**
This was hysterical! You have to bring your A game though – this isn’t a book to skim or breeze through. There were several passages I had to go back and forth between to get the nuance and to figure things out. There’s a lot of symbolism and metaphors and pop culture in this book and (I’ll admit) sometimes it was hard to catch them all… but those I did catch were really funny!
I loved the snarkiness of Patrick and his eventual breakthrough – so rewarding! Benji also found his own strength and determination and that was very special, too.
The world –building was both fascinating and maybe a little underexplained. I had to work to figure out what was what (nothing wrong with that) but once I had it sorted I thought it was brilliant. Having to tread lightly on copyright laws, the authors can’t say that Ikea is purgatory and Walmart is Hell and Target is Heaven… but I can! (I think?!)
Using that as an analogy and the entire Ikea catalog as a reference point, Benji and Patrick help these lost souls find their path in ways that are often ironic and sweet at the same time. (I have to admit I got overwhelmed by all the NAMES IN CAPS of the furniture… not having an extensive Ikea literacy maybe held me back here…) In any case the love story between these guys is sweet if subtle, the humor is abundant, the world-building (especially spectral sex) is creative and unique and the overall message really solid and heartwarming – Love is a leap of faith.
I highly recommend this unique book to fans of humor, pop culture, ghosts and creative love stories.
4.5 of 5 stars
March 20, 2017
I was given an ARC copy of this book for an honest review.
I'm a fan of both of these authors and together this book was a home run. Both Benji and Patrick were characters I wanted to get to know and root for them to find love in the afterlife.
The premise of a furniture store which I assume is modeled after IKEA is the gateway or purgatory after you die was highly original and enjoyable. The leads try to hold onto their humanity through eating, wearing new clothes and interacting with the living when needed. In fact there were times when I forgot the two were dead, they even have jobs which is something I hope isn't true after I die.
Both men had issues lingering from past relationships, as most people do and they way they were handled in a skillful way that helped them to move forward. Both authors blended seamlessly and I couldn't tell where one ended and one began.
Hopefully we will see more collaboration from them too in the future.
I'm a fan of both of these authors and together this book was a home run. Both Benji and Patrick were characters I wanted to get to know and root for them to find love in the afterlife.
The premise of a furniture store which I assume is modeled after IKEA is the gateway or purgatory after you die was highly original and enjoyable. The leads try to hold onto their humanity through eating, wearing new clothes and interacting with the living when needed. In fact there were times when I forgot the two were dead, they even have jobs which is something I hope isn't true after I die.
Both men had issues lingering from past relationships, as most people do and they way they were handled in a skillful way that helped them to move forward. Both authors blended seamlessly and I couldn't tell where one ended and one began.
Hopefully we will see more collaboration from them too in the future.
November 1, 2017
I loved the idea of this story: an IKEA-lookalike as purgatory where a group of ghosts help souls to move on. I found the execution to be a little lacking and the story itself never clicked for me, but I found the first half to be quite clever and pretty amusing. It's definitely strange to start a story knowing the main character is about to die. This was a fun, fairly easy story, but it felt a bit long to me and the second half a dragged a bit. I never warmed to Patrick and found him to be a bit of a jerk. This was a very cool idea that didn't pan out in practice quite as well as it might have, but I still appreciated the effort.
August 3, 2017
4.25 stars
March 31, 2016
Book – Some Assembly Required
Author – Lex Chase & Bru Baker
Star rating - ★★★★★
No. of Pages - 210
Movie Potential - ★★★★★ (something similar to Warm Bodies)
Ease of reading – very easy to read and follow
Would I read it again – Definitely!
** I WAS GIVEN THIS BOOK, BY THE AUTHOR, IN RETURN FOR AN HONEST REVIEW **
Reviews for Divine Magazine
Confession: I don't have many notes for this book. Normally, I mark highlights on my Kindle as I'm reading, to note down my thoughts, complaints or praises. I generally have about a page of highlights for every 50 or so pages of the story. Not with this one. In fact, I barely have one page and that is for one, very important, reason. This book was as close to reading perfection that you'll ever find.
If you've read my reviews before, you'll know that I write about plot and characters separately. I won't be doing that here. There's no need. Both were clever, sweet, charming and perfect in ways that mere words can't describe.
I smiled through 80% of this book, spend another 10% worrying at my lip in concern for the characters and the last 10% trying so hard not to cry. I failed.
Right off the bat, I connected with Benji. Everything about him was familiar, relatable and wonderful. He had a great personality, a wonderful sense of human and his interactions with his mum, the cat and the dog were all top class entertainment.
I started off a little frustrated with the constant CAPS mentions of the furniture, but it soon made perfect sense and stopped making such an impact. I was too engrossed in the story, the plot and the characters to care about the furniture. The story is just so original, intriguing and different to anything else I've ever read. I've read quite a few “ghost” stories in the M/M genre, but this one takes the top prize for originality and creativity. The storytelling was excellent, the writing style flowed and was easy to follow, without coming across childish and the whole world created within these pages became familiar, somehow.
Patrick was such an interesting character. Feisty and sarcastic, he often offered a break from the situation they faced every day. His chemistry with Benji was clear from the start and something that dragged me in, hook, line and sinker.
Benji's temper tantrum was so sad that I almost cried. I could relate to the hopelessness and the feeling that fear and selfless intentions had robbed him of a full life. It was gut-wrenching to read my own – deeply hidden and possibly never recognised – feelings portrayed in such clarity. But so inspiring. Benji is so different to the other characters, who are all unique in their own way, and the story of how he finds his feet in CASA is so important. CASA, with its extensive range of homicidal furniture, is his real journey, not just his relationship with Patrick, though it's just as intriguing.
But, Good God! That Charles and Kerry moment nearly killed me. Then the ending. Ugh! Tears from here to Sunday with both instances.
Overall: Utter genius and truly beautiful! I loved every minute. Instead of wishing there was more (though I'd love the same world with new characters, keeping Agnes, Henry and Karen) I know that Patrick and Benji got the ending they deserved. This is a story about self-worth, hope, faith in the unknown and yourself, as well as taking chances. You won't know the milk is sour until you try it. ;)
~
P.S The cover is beautiful and I really loved the chapter headings, which added a little sparkle of something extra, to the reading.
~
FAVOURITE QUOTE:
“The rays filtered through Benji's dark hair, and Patrick would have made a joke about it, but Benji looked like an angel come to Earth.
Stay. Patrick wished inside his head.
Stay.
Stay.
Stay. Stay. Stay!”
Author – Lex Chase & Bru Baker
Star rating - ★★★★★
No. of Pages - 210
Movie Potential - ★★★★★ (something similar to Warm Bodies)
Ease of reading – very easy to read and follow
Would I read it again – Definitely!
** I WAS GIVEN THIS BOOK, BY THE AUTHOR, IN RETURN FOR AN HONEST REVIEW **
Reviews for Divine Magazine
Confession: I don't have many notes for this book. Normally, I mark highlights on my Kindle as I'm reading, to note down my thoughts, complaints or praises. I generally have about a page of highlights for every 50 or so pages of the story. Not with this one. In fact, I barely have one page and that is for one, very important, reason. This book was as close to reading perfection that you'll ever find.
If you've read my reviews before, you'll know that I write about plot and characters separately. I won't be doing that here. There's no need. Both were clever, sweet, charming and perfect in ways that mere words can't describe.
I smiled through 80% of this book, spend another 10% worrying at my lip in concern for the characters and the last 10% trying so hard not to cry. I failed.
Right off the bat, I connected with Benji. Everything about him was familiar, relatable and wonderful. He had a great personality, a wonderful sense of human and his interactions with his mum, the cat and the dog were all top class entertainment.
I started off a little frustrated with the constant CAPS mentions of the furniture, but it soon made perfect sense and stopped making such an impact. I was too engrossed in the story, the plot and the characters to care about the furniture. The story is just so original, intriguing and different to anything else I've ever read. I've read quite a few “ghost” stories in the M/M genre, but this one takes the top prize for originality and creativity. The storytelling was excellent, the writing style flowed and was easy to follow, without coming across childish and the whole world created within these pages became familiar, somehow.
Patrick was such an interesting character. Feisty and sarcastic, he often offered a break from the situation they faced every day. His chemistry with Benji was clear from the start and something that dragged me in, hook, line and sinker.
Benji's temper tantrum was so sad that I almost cried. I could relate to the hopelessness and the feeling that fear and selfless intentions had robbed him of a full life. It was gut-wrenching to read my own – deeply hidden and possibly never recognised – feelings portrayed in such clarity. But so inspiring. Benji is so different to the other characters, who are all unique in their own way, and the story of how he finds his feet in CASA is so important. CASA, with its extensive range of homicidal furniture, is his real journey, not just his relationship with Patrick, though it's just as intriguing.
But, Good God! That Charles and Kerry moment nearly killed me. Then the ending. Ugh! Tears from here to Sunday with both instances.
Overall: Utter genius and truly beautiful! I loved every minute. Instead of wishing there was more (though I'd love the same world with new characters, keeping Agnes, Henry and Karen) I know that Patrick and Benji got the ending they deserved. This is a story about self-worth, hope, faith in the unknown and yourself, as well as taking chances. You won't know the milk is sour until you try it. ;)
~
P.S The cover is beautiful and I really loved the chapter headings, which added a little sparkle of something extra, to the reading.
~
FAVOURITE QUOTE:
“The rays filtered through Benji's dark hair, and Patrick would have made a joke about it, but Benji looked like an angel come to Earth.
Stay. Patrick wished inside his head.
Stay.
Stay.
Stay. Stay. Stay!”
February 14, 2016
Review can be read at It's About The Book
It’s not everyday I read about a ghost love story set in a store something like IKEA. Or I think it’s meant to be IKEA-like?! Yes, the MCs are deceased and in purgatory. In this book IKEA is CASA and it’s a purgatory for all the dead people whose lives were ended too soon thanks to mishaps with random items purchased in the store. For whatever reason they pop in the store to save some poor unsuspecting living customer from repeating their demise. Our MCs help them out with this and then they’re able to move on to whatever comes next for them in the after life. I’ll admit it took quite a while to grasp all the specifics in the book thanks to Patrick being less than forthcoming with information. He talks in sass and riddles. There’s a bunch of details doled out throughout the book so just roll with it if you feel like you’re missing something. It all comes together eventually.
Patrick is a tough character to nail down. He’s in Purgatory kind of by choice. He’s also really good at his job of saving lives and ushering the recently deceased to the next plain. Patrick fell in love with one of his fellow spirits who moved on and broke his heart. This leaves him hardened to the possibility of love. He immediately feels hope and attraction to Benji but soon after he remembers that everyone but him, Karin and Agnus, his co-workers, eventually move on. His fear of becoming attached to Benji and feeling that heartbreak again makes him push Benji away.
Poor Benji is doing his best to accept his death. Being stuck in CASA is very confusing. He learns the way things usually work there but he’s not the usual spirit. Something is keeping him there. Time flows differently in purgatory. He can’t remember his death. Patrick is constantly messing with his head. Flirting one minute and pushing him away the next. They form a friendship but it’s obvious they both want more. Benji goes about wooing his possible new ghost boyfriend under the limitations they have. This part was pretty funny. I liked how Benji finally flips the script on Patrick giving him a dose of his own medicine. Patrick is frustrating to say the least. He’s likable but he’s obviously not showing you all of him. He deflects with jokes or innuendos meant to embarrass. He’s completely happy to avoid his own reality and focus on everyone else.
I liked this book. The title certainly fits the story. It took me a little longer than normal to get into it. Being one of the few people who have never stepped foot in an IKEA means a lot of the references to it were probably lost on me. There were only a few characters and I liked them all. I felt like I really understood how Benji was feeling in the first half of this book. He and I learned new things with every experience he had. It takes a while to understand what exactly is going on in the store beyond all that glorious weirdness these author’s have given us. The last half of this book was really good. Everything kind of comes together. You start to understand what role they’re all playing in the grand scheme and why Benji and Patrick are fated to be stuck there at the same time. Initially Patrick thinks he’s the one who is taking Benji under his wing when really it’s Benji who is saving Patrick. In the end the love story was beautiful. The journey is a little odd and frustrating but unique and well worth the read. I’d recommend this if quirky romances are something you enjoy. I certainly did.
It’s not everyday I read about a ghost love story set in a store something like IKEA. Or I think it’s meant to be IKEA-like?! Yes, the MCs are deceased and in purgatory. In this book IKEA is CASA and it’s a purgatory for all the dead people whose lives were ended too soon thanks to mishaps with random items purchased in the store. For whatever reason they pop in the store to save some poor unsuspecting living customer from repeating their demise. Our MCs help them out with this and then they’re able to move on to whatever comes next for them in the after life. I’ll admit it took quite a while to grasp all the specifics in the book thanks to Patrick being less than forthcoming with information. He talks in sass and riddles. There’s a bunch of details doled out throughout the book so just roll with it if you feel like you’re missing something. It all comes together eventually.
Patrick is a tough character to nail down. He’s in Purgatory kind of by choice. He’s also really good at his job of saving lives and ushering the recently deceased to the next plain. Patrick fell in love with one of his fellow spirits who moved on and broke his heart. This leaves him hardened to the possibility of love. He immediately feels hope and attraction to Benji but soon after he remembers that everyone but him, Karin and Agnus, his co-workers, eventually move on. His fear of becoming attached to Benji and feeling that heartbreak again makes him push Benji away.
Poor Benji is doing his best to accept his death. Being stuck in CASA is very confusing. He learns the way things usually work there but he’s not the usual spirit. Something is keeping him there. Time flows differently in purgatory. He can’t remember his death. Patrick is constantly messing with his head. Flirting one minute and pushing him away the next. They form a friendship but it’s obvious they both want more. Benji goes about wooing his possible new ghost boyfriend under the limitations they have. This part was pretty funny. I liked how Benji finally flips the script on Patrick giving him a dose of his own medicine. Patrick is frustrating to say the least. He’s likable but he’s obviously not showing you all of him. He deflects with jokes or innuendos meant to embarrass. He’s completely happy to avoid his own reality and focus on everyone else.
I liked this book. The title certainly fits the story. It took me a little longer than normal to get into it. Being one of the few people who have never stepped foot in an IKEA means a lot of the references to it were probably lost on me. There were only a few characters and I liked them all. I felt like I really understood how Benji was feeling in the first half of this book. He and I learned new things with every experience he had. It takes a while to understand what exactly is going on in the store beyond all that glorious weirdness these author’s have given us. The last half of this book was really good. Everything kind of comes together. You start to understand what role they’re all playing in the grand scheme and why Benji and Patrick are fated to be stuck there at the same time. Initially Patrick thinks he’s the one who is taking Benji under his wing when really it’s Benji who is saving Patrick. In the end the love story was beautiful. The journey is a little odd and frustrating but unique and well worth the read. I’d recommend this if quirky romances are something you enjoy. I certainly did.
February 8, 2016
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
So this story is just plain a lot of fun you guys. In case it isn’t clear, CASA is a takeoff on the assemble-it-yourself Scandinavian furniture store, IKEA. The set up here is so clever, with CASA as this way station for spirits before they move on (yes, Wallville is the place you don’t want to end up, but if you are lucky, you may move on to Scope, with their red bullseye logo). There are so many clever details here in the way CASA is portrayed, and if you ever have shopped at an IKEA you are certain to chuckle at the familiar set up, from the funky furniture names, to the meatballs in the cafe. I was so impressed with the gentle humor here in the way the store is built into the story, making use of CASA as the setting and building from there. The folks who end up in CASA all went to their death due to a furniture mishap, and you would not believe all the crazy ways someone can die from furniture!
So the whole set up here is just wonderfully creative and makes the story shine. But on top of the great world building, we get a really sweet relationship between Patrick and Benji. I just loved Patrick. I have a soft spot for the assholes that aren’t really assholes. The guys who are so scared they put up these huge walls, only to have those walls shattered when they find right person to tear them down. As we learn more about Patrick’s story, we can see how lonely he is, how scared of being left behind, and why he is at first resistant to hoping for something more with Benji. He is a scientific mind, and he just can’t let himself believe. And Benji is sweet and adorable and doesn’t put up with Patrick’s crap. He is a novice at all this afterlife stuff, and it is through his eyes that we learn what is going on. And ultimately Benji is the one who leads and helps to make the future between him and Patrick.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
So this story is just plain a lot of fun you guys. In case it isn’t clear, CASA is a takeoff on the assemble-it-yourself Scandinavian furniture store, IKEA. The set up here is so clever, with CASA as this way station for spirits before they move on (yes, Wallville is the place you don’t want to end up, but if you are lucky, you may move on to Scope, with their red bullseye logo). There are so many clever details here in the way CASA is portrayed, and if you ever have shopped at an IKEA you are certain to chuckle at the familiar set up, from the funky furniture names, to the meatballs in the cafe. I was so impressed with the gentle humor here in the way the store is built into the story, making use of CASA as the setting and building from there. The folks who end up in CASA all went to their death due to a furniture mishap, and you would not believe all the crazy ways someone can die from furniture!
So the whole set up here is just wonderfully creative and makes the story shine. But on top of the great world building, we get a really sweet relationship between Patrick and Benji. I just loved Patrick. I have a soft spot for the assholes that aren’t really assholes. The guys who are so scared they put up these huge walls, only to have those walls shattered when they find right person to tear them down. As we learn more about Patrick’s story, we can see how lonely he is, how scared of being left behind, and why he is at first resistant to hoping for something more with Benji. He is a scientific mind, and he just can’t let himself believe. And Benji is sweet and adorable and doesn’t put up with Patrick’s crap. He is a novice at all this afterlife stuff, and it is through his eyes that we learn what is going on. And ultimately Benji is the one who leads and helps to make the future between him and Patrick.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
November 5, 2016
2016 Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention: Some Assembly Required
1) The premise of a furniture store which I assume is modeled after IKEA is the gateway or purgatory after you die was highly original and enjoyable. The leads try to hold onto their humanity through eating, wearing new clothes and interacting with the living when needed. In fact there were times when I forgot the two were dead, they even have jobs which is something I hope isn't true after I die. Both men had issues lingering from past relationships, as most people do and they way they were handled in a skillful way that helped them to move forward. Both authors blended seamlessly and I couldn't tell where one ended and one began.
2) This was a nice story. The plot was different from any I have read, and it was easy to follow. Something about the ending though. It never fully cleared up an important secondary character other than to share that he was aware of what was going on with the main character Patrick all along.
3) This was an interesting book. Instead of a ghost and a live person, these are both ghosts. One doesn't know he's dead (Benji), until quite into the story. The other ghost (Patrick) is a 'guide', a person who is supposed to help newly spirits move on to their final destination. They didn't count on falling in love, though. And while Patrick insists he doesn't deserve to pass on, he tries to guide Benji to leave the store where they all gather, a sort of Purgatory, as they call it. Well written and quite entertaining.
1) The premise of a furniture store which I assume is modeled after IKEA is the gateway or purgatory after you die was highly original and enjoyable. The leads try to hold onto their humanity through eating, wearing new clothes and interacting with the living when needed. In fact there were times when I forgot the two were dead, they even have jobs which is something I hope isn't true after I die. Both men had issues lingering from past relationships, as most people do and they way they were handled in a skillful way that helped them to move forward. Both authors blended seamlessly and I couldn't tell where one ended and one began.
2) This was a nice story. The plot was different from any I have read, and it was easy to follow. Something about the ending though. It never fully cleared up an important secondary character other than to share that he was aware of what was going on with the main character Patrick all along.
3) This was an interesting book. Instead of a ghost and a live person, these are both ghosts. One doesn't know he's dead (Benji), until quite into the story. The other ghost (Patrick) is a 'guide', a person who is supposed to help newly spirits move on to their final destination. They didn't count on falling in love, though. And while Patrick insists he doesn't deserve to pass on, he tries to guide Benji to leave the store where they all gather, a sort of Purgatory, as they call it. Well written and quite entertaining.
February 9, 2016
Ghosts in CASA (read: IKEA) falling in love. This concept is awesome. I'll be honest, ghost stories are not my thing, but this one from two of my favorite authors was a no brainer. I adored Patrick and Benji. The tension and heat between them is fantastic, not to mention the tension. The story, a progression of relationship, romance, and future, captivated me from beginning to end.
Benji's transition from living to killed by a CASA bookshelf and all of the happenings between held my interest. But it was his connection to Patrick and Patrick's to him that I found perfect. I liked the chemistry and ease, with which they initially came together, even if they did avoid the attraction between them as long as possible.
Still my favorite part of this story is the world. Purgatory as a do it yourself furniture store is absolute genius. Not to mention the secondary characters. Agnes and her attitude are my favorite. Nothing is left to the imagination, yet it's fully imaginative. I love this world.
Lex Chase and Bru Baker have written a winner here. This book is fun and exciting and absolutely adorable. I highly recommend Some Assembly Required.
Benji's transition from living to killed by a CASA bookshelf and all of the happenings between held my interest. But it was his connection to Patrick and Patrick's to him that I found perfect. I liked the chemistry and ease, with which they initially came together, even if they did avoid the attraction between them as long as possible.
Still my favorite part of this story is the world. Purgatory as a do it yourself furniture store is absolute genius. Not to mention the secondary characters. Agnes and her attitude are my favorite. Nothing is left to the imagination, yet it's fully imaginative. I love this world.
Lex Chase and Bru Baker have written a winner here. This book is fun and exciting and absolutely adorable. I highly recommend Some Assembly Required.
April 21, 2016
I have to say to start of this review that I 100% loved the authors premise of this story! Being a huge paranormal fan and both MC's in this story both being Ghosts..
I really loved both of the characters in this story! Benji and Patrick both having been killed by Casa furniture now must reside there in their afterlife. Benji was such a sweet character while Patrick was sarcastic, but he does eventually grow on you. I really just loved both of these characters together and thought this story was so sweet!
I loved the way both authors wrote this story and these characters! From the moment I started this book I could not put it down. It was such a different concept then I have really ever read before.
So I will leave this review with... I really loved this book and I would definitely recommend this!
I received this book free in exchange for an honest review from Inked Rainbow Reads.
I really loved both of the characters in this story! Benji and Patrick both having been killed by Casa furniture now must reside there in their afterlife. Benji was such a sweet character while Patrick was sarcastic, but he does eventually grow on you. I really just loved both of these characters together and thought this story was so sweet!
I loved the way both authors wrote this story and these characters! From the moment I started this book I could not put it down. It was such a different concept then I have really ever read before.
So I will leave this review with... I really loved this book and I would definitely recommend this!
I received this book free in exchange for an honest review from Inked Rainbow Reads.
June 27, 2016
This had such a great quirky premise, sadly it didn't quite live up to expectations - and the version of heaven that's presented is pretty much my idea of hell. Heaven for good little capitalists. Elitist middle class capitalists.
Also, really, the lowest common denominator Walmart digs? Not creative or original or funny.
Also, really, the lowest common denominator Walmart digs? Not creative or original or funny.
October 2, 2020
Probably more of a 3.5* for me but I liked the idea, found it generally amusing so gets the bump up
I really liked the idea of spending time in the place that sells what killed you - spent a bit of time trying to work out a most obscure purgatory. Seeing the Impressions, working out how they had to save some one, all fun.
Benji get to see live and dead and his gradual adjustment.
Patrick is a closed book on his history and emotions.
I never got the Weople bit.
Agnes and Karin i kind of got, but are they stuck there. And Henry, knew it!!!
So I think the few bits I still had ? moments over is what brought it down a bit for me, and it started to repeat the Patrick Benji thing and drag a little for me me 3/4 through.
I really liked the idea of spending time in the place that sells what killed you - spent a bit of time trying to work out a most obscure purgatory. Seeing the Impressions, working out how they had to save some one, all fun.
Benji get to see live and dead and his gradual adjustment.
Patrick is a closed book on his history and emotions.
I never got the Weople bit.
Agnes and Karin i kind of got, but are they stuck there. And Henry, knew it!!!
So I think the few bits I still had ? moments over is what brought it down a bit for me, and it started to repeat the Patrick Benji thing and drag a little for me me 3/4 through.
May 9, 2020
Hmm. What there was of this book was well written, but it was mostly world building around "What would it be like if Purgatory was IKEA?" The characters and their development were told and not shown. I wasn't sure what their conflicts were. I wasn't clear on why some modes of intimacy were better than others. I wasn't sure why the characters could/couldn't leave. It all made me think this book was the result of a workshop. The writing itself was technically proficient, leading me to wonder if I should try later books by either author.
March 12, 2024
DNF - boring as hell... Stop reading it around page 28.
June 3, 2018
5 Stars
Gotta Love this idea
This is such a unique idea.
It is well written and I really enjoyed the story and characters.
Blurb:
Everyone wishes they were dead when wandering the purgatory of a home furnishings store, but these guys actually are.
Gotta Love this idea
This is such a unique idea.
It is well written and I really enjoyed the story and characters.
Blurb:
Everyone wishes they were dead when wandering the purgatory of a home furnishings store, but these guys actually are.
February 21, 2016
Read for The Novel Approach.
It’s not often I read stories involving ghosts. I enjoy it when I do, most of the time, but usually the ghosts are part of some sort of paranormal investigation. This book, however, breaks those rules, and I must say it was not only entertaining but unique.
Both Benji and Patrick are ghosts. Having been killed by CASA brand furniture, they reside in the purgatory that is CASA, helping other ghosts—or Impressions—prevent similar accidents from killing more people before they are able to pass on. Patrick and Benji are different, however, and don’t pass. Neither do Karin or Agnes.
When Benji ends up at CASA, he is drawn to Patrick, and after what feels like a whirlwind ghostly romance, the two continue to dance around each other. But as Benji soon—or not, as the case may be—discovers, time moves differently in CASA when one is dead.
There are three stores in this book that represent the various stages of the afterlife. CASA is purgatory, Wallville is hell, and Scope appears to be heaven. It shouldn’t be too difficult for readers to figure out what those stores are modeled after, especially when the logos and signature colors are revealed, and I must say I got quite a good laugh—several times—at the jibes thrown at Wallville. It was clever and made the story that much stronger.
Quite a few moments of the book, especially at the end, left me aching for Benji and Patrick. When Benji makes a few startling discoveries, which I cannot reveal without giving too much away, I teared up and, in one case, cried for him. Patrick’s revelation was a little more difficult for me to understand, but no less heartbreaking.
And the passion! This book contains one of the most, if not the most intense love scene I have ever read in romance. Lex Chase and Bru Baker truly did a remarkable job of describing what Benji and Patrick were experiencing, and it quite literally took my breath away. I read through it once quickly, in the moment with the boys nearly as frenzied as they were, and then went back to reread it for the brilliant details the authors included. I may have even had to fan myself after one of the readings, but I plead the fifth on that one.
Whether or not you are a fan of paranormal stories, this is one that is not to be missed. It’s full of fun characters from the main heroes Benji and Patrick to the enigmatic Agnes and the long-suffering guide, Karin. There’s also the mysterious Henry, who just sits in the CASA café, pushing around meatballs and leaving out crossword puzzles. Is he human or ghost? Patrick certainly can’t figure him out, and their interactions (or lack of them) are amusing.
I highly recommend this book and look forward to more collaborations from these authors.
It’s not often I read stories involving ghosts. I enjoy it when I do, most of the time, but usually the ghosts are part of some sort of paranormal investigation. This book, however, breaks those rules, and I must say it was not only entertaining but unique.
Both Benji and Patrick are ghosts. Having been killed by CASA brand furniture, they reside in the purgatory that is CASA, helping other ghosts—or Impressions—prevent similar accidents from killing more people before they are able to pass on. Patrick and Benji are different, however, and don’t pass. Neither do Karin or Agnes.
When Benji ends up at CASA, he is drawn to Patrick, and after what feels like a whirlwind ghostly romance, the two continue to dance around each other. But as Benji soon—or not, as the case may be—discovers, time moves differently in CASA when one is dead.
There are three stores in this book that represent the various stages of the afterlife. CASA is purgatory, Wallville is hell, and Scope appears to be heaven. It shouldn’t be too difficult for readers to figure out what those stores are modeled after, especially when the logos and signature colors are revealed, and I must say I got quite a good laugh—several times—at the jibes thrown at Wallville. It was clever and made the story that much stronger.
Quite a few moments of the book, especially at the end, left me aching for Benji and Patrick. When Benji makes a few startling discoveries, which I cannot reveal without giving too much away, I teared up and, in one case, cried for him. Patrick’s revelation was a little more difficult for me to understand, but no less heartbreaking.
And the passion! This book contains one of the most, if not the most intense love scene I have ever read in romance. Lex Chase and Bru Baker truly did a remarkable job of describing what Benji and Patrick were experiencing, and it quite literally took my breath away. I read through it once quickly, in the moment with the boys nearly as frenzied as they were, and then went back to reread it for the brilliant details the authors included. I may have even had to fan myself after one of the readings, but I plead the fifth on that one.
Whether or not you are a fan of paranormal stories, this is one that is not to be missed. It’s full of fun characters from the main heroes Benji and Patrick to the enigmatic Agnes and the long-suffering guide, Karin. There’s also the mysterious Henry, who just sits in the CASA café, pushing around meatballs and leaving out crossword puzzles. Is he human or ghost? Patrick certainly can’t figure him out, and their interactions (or lack of them) are amusing.
I highly recommend this book and look forward to more collaborations from these authors.
October 24, 2016
Synopsis:
Benji has been dumped by his boyfriend, and doesn't really feel like getting out there again. Instead, he focuses on the cat that he inherited but is allergic to, and CASA, a furniture store. Now that his ex isn't around to want a certain standard of furniture, Benji furnishes his apartment with furniture from his favourite store. When he agrees to look after a dog for some neighbours, he locks himself out, and takes the dog back to his apartment. Unfortunately, the dog and cat don't get along, and Benji is the victim of an accident. The next thing Benji knows, he is in CASA, although he can't remember getting there. He's aided by Patrick the entire day, and when he goes to leave at night, he realizes that he can't, as he and Patrick and a few other staff members are actually spirits.
What I liked: the premise. I liked the idea of two ghosts finding each other when they had never met in real life. I liked Patrick and Benji, and how they each seemed to be just what the other one needed. I liked the interactions with people still in the mortal plane, the spirits that they were trying to help find their way, as well as the fellow staff members. I liked that, even though Patrick had been there for much longer, he didn't figure a lot of things out. I liked that Benji drew Patrick out of his isolation, and that Patrick did the same for him.
What I didn't like: I'm not entirely sure. There was just a little something that kept me from connecting fully with the story. Maybe the fact that Patrick was so unrelenting in his "I am the cat who walks alone" attitude. Just...something.
Benji has been dumped by his boyfriend, and doesn't really feel like getting out there again. Instead, he focuses on the cat that he inherited but is allergic to, and CASA, a furniture store. Now that his ex isn't around to want a certain standard of furniture, Benji furnishes his apartment with furniture from his favourite store. When he agrees to look after a dog for some neighbours, he locks himself out, and takes the dog back to his apartment. Unfortunately, the dog and cat don't get along, and Benji is the victim of an accident. The next thing Benji knows, he is in CASA, although he can't remember getting there. He's aided by Patrick the entire day, and when he goes to leave at night, he realizes that he can't, as he and Patrick and a few other staff members are actually spirits.
What I liked: the premise. I liked the idea of two ghosts finding each other when they had never met in real life. I liked Patrick and Benji, and how they each seemed to be just what the other one needed. I liked the interactions with people still in the mortal plane, the spirits that they were trying to help find their way, as well as the fellow staff members. I liked that, even though Patrick had been there for much longer, he didn't figure a lot of things out. I liked that Benji drew Patrick out of his isolation, and that Patrick did the same for him.
What I didn't like: I'm not entirely sure. There was just a little something that kept me from connecting fully with the story. Maybe the fact that Patrick was so unrelenting in his "I am the cat who walks alone" attitude. Just...something.
February 9, 2016
I was given an ARC of this book for an honest review.
Have you ever spent hours over hours in a Swedish furniture store and thought you're in heaven or hell?
CASA is purgatory, where spirits are passing through to their own form of heaven. I never knew there were so many ways to die by furniture.
Patrick is a spirit in purgatory, helping others. He refuses to believe that there is something else for himself.
Benji finds himself in purgatory after being killed by a CASA shelf. He is exactly what Patrick needed, getting under his skin and making him question his own beliefs.
Both have their share of heartbreak, but Benji's calm demeanor is the right answer to Patrick's snarky comments and pranks. Towards the end, this story had me in tears. Well done Lex and Bru!
If you're looking for a non-typical love story with humour and a twist to it, you might want to look into this story.
Have you ever spent hours over hours in a Swedish furniture store and thought you're in heaven or hell?
CASA is purgatory, where spirits are passing through to their own form of heaven. I never knew there were so many ways to die by furniture.
Patrick is a spirit in purgatory, helping others. He refuses to believe that there is something else for himself.
Benji finds himself in purgatory after being killed by a CASA shelf. He is exactly what Patrick needed, getting under his skin and making him question his own beliefs.
Both have their share of heartbreak, but Benji's calm demeanor is the right answer to Patrick's snarky comments and pranks. Towards the end, this story had me in tears. Well done Lex and Bru!
If you're looking for a non-typical love story with humour and a twist to it, you might want to look into this story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 20, 2016
A bit confusing as to how the whole system worked. I don't read much fantasy for that reason, just because it works in the authors' mind and other readers' doesn't mean it'll work in mine. However, this was clever and hilarious and the banter was perfect.
I loved the store names: CASA (IKEA), Wallville (Walmart), Scope (Target), and Queequeg Coffee (Starbucks).
ETA: Seriously suspend your disbelief, I found it very hard to believe CASA was still in business, with how many years and how many people died using their products.
I loved the store names: CASA (IKEA), Wallville (Walmart), Scope (Target), and Queequeg Coffee (Starbucks).
ETA: Seriously suspend your disbelief, I found it very hard to believe CASA was still in business, with how many years and how many people died using their products.
September 25, 2016
This book is really different, its about two spirits that meet in the afterlife, where they're stuck at CASA. An IKEA type store. When Benji first arrives he has so many questions, and Patrick never tells him anything with a straight answer. But eventually he figures out a lot on his own. Like the fact that Patrick has been hurt in the past and is afraid to trust his heart, even though it hasn't actually beat for years. The supernatural twist in this story was very fun. There were parts that seemed a bit long, but I couldnt wait to find out what happened in the end.
November 21, 2016
4.5 stars.
Very fun read. Rounding down to four only because two people in tight quarters is not exactly my comfort zone. Does it make me a closeted claustrophobic? *scratches head* lol
Good book, tho. Very good :)
Very fun read. Rounding down to four only because two people in tight quarters is not exactly my comfort zone. Does it make me a closeted claustrophobic? *scratches head* lol
Good book, tho. Very good :)
February 13, 2016
Always anchor your Billy bookcase to the wall!
Interesting take on purgatory being at CASA. Anyone who's been to IKEA will find the setting very familiar. Very slow burn romance.
Interesting take on purgatory being at CASA. Anyone who's been to IKEA will find the setting very familiar. Very slow burn romance.
March 4, 2016
Wow, this is a really weird written romance in ghost world. I don't really know what to think about this story. Sure its unique, but everything else is simply to weird for my taste.
August 30, 2016
While I like the concept behind the story and I enjoyed the writing, I didn't feel any connection between the 2 MCs.
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