Kings of Infinite Space by James Hynes

James Hynes writes some absolutely hilarious horror... yes, I know, not necessarily a good thing, but in this case it is. Kings of Infinite Space is the tale of a washed up academic, Paul Trilby, now a temp writer for the Department of Texas General Services, who is isn’t having a good time at his job or with his life (as an example of this - Paul is haunted by an ex-girlfriend’s murdered cat - the fact that he was behind the feline’s demise only adds to the fun somehow). Paul’s life isn’t really getting better when some strange and frightening things start happening. A story that is equal parts satire, commentary on modern office life, and tale of macabre - Office Space meets H.P. Lovecraft is about the best I can come up with to describe this book.

James Hynes puts together a memorable tale. For anyone who has ever worked in the maze of a cubicle filled space, you will find much that feels very familiar. Paul’s eclectic assortment of coworkers are a group that would probably be at home in any office. From petty grievances and clueless bosses to boredom and work avoidance, the whole smorgasbord of office dysfunction is here, described in a biting and hilarious fashion that I was able to identify with immediately. Kings of Infinite Space moves from satire to frightening in the blink of an eye without missing a beat and kept me hooked right on through utterly bizarre and creepy climax. Thanks to Kings of Infinite Space I will never look at some of the commonplace objects at my office in the same way again... what is going on at the bottom of that recycling can? Was that ceiling panel slightly ajar yesterday?

This may be the first James Hynes book I have read, but it won’t be the last. His writing is clever, funny, and imaginative. For every cube dweller out there who enjoys horror literature or a good laugh, you will enjoy Kings of Infinite Space.