In Hit Man, Block presents Keller in a unique episodic formula. Each chapter is a new assignment for the character, taking him to American cities and small towns, hunting his prey for a mysterious boss in White Plains, New York. Each chapter can theoretically be a stand-alone short story, as these narratives aren't immediately relevant to each other. However, in order, the reader can sort of grow with Keller as he embarks on a short-lived relationship with a young woman, acquires a dog, shops for real estate, and invests in a stamp-collecting hobby.
The chapters aren't explicitly violent, with most of the killing scenes being very abbreviated or occurring off-page. The setup places the character in the moment, living in the target's peripheral in the days and hours leading up to the execution. Sometimes Keller befriends the target while speculating on the best ways to knock him or her off. In other chapters, Keller methodically plans a surprise hit or becomes involved emotionally with the target's friend or family. It's all a ruse to get the guard down, but that's the real charm of these stories. It is the ability for Keller to nonchalantly go about the killing business.
There are plenty of laugh-out-loud moments throughout Hit Man, including Keller calling his home's answering machine to talk with his dog. Another time, he confesses his childhood to a shrink who he must kill. Block adds in some social commentary fitting to Keller's surroundings, allowing readers to live vicariously through this unusual profession of judgment and execution. I also appreciated Block poking a bit of fun at the pulp-paperback market, especially the western formula.
Hit Man is funny, smart, and entertaining. You need to read this book. Get it HERE.
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