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 :) ( )

‘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. ( )