The Consultant: The darkly funny, satirical Korean thriller

The Consultant is a novel by Im Seong-sun that was shortlisted for the CWA Dagger for Crime Fiction in Translation 2024. It is a clever book that offers readers sharp observations on consumerism, capitalism, and anonymity. The protagonist is a consultant who is good at his job, creating simple, elegant, and effective solutions for restructuring companies. However, when his next customer turns out to be someone he cares about, he begins to question his role in the company and the real scope of their work. The novel combines the tension of crime fiction with social criticism to present a searing take-down of global corporate life.

Format: Unspecified
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 23 November 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

It's a captivating book that delves deep into the intricate tapestry of consumerism, capitalism, and the profound sense of anonymity that permeates modern society. Author Im Seong-sun, through his insightful and razor-sharp observations, invites readers to embark on a thought-provoking journey that challenges our societal norms and examines the darker corners of human existence.

Sometimes, work can be a treacherous realm, where the lines between right and wrong blur, and the consequences of one's actions can be fatal. In this captivating novel, The Consultant, a skilled professional, excels in his job, crafting simple, elegant, and effective solutions for restructuring companies. His performance reviews are impeccable, and he appears to be a master of his craft, operating within the vast and anonymous corporate world.

However, as the story unfolds, The Consultant's next "customer" turns out to be someone he not only knows but cares about. For the first time, he begins to question the role he plays in the vast and impersonal Company. As he delves deeper into the true scope of their work, he realizes the chilling truth: the Company possesses the power to orchestrate one more perfect murder.

The tension mounts as The Consultant grapples with his moral dilemma. He knows that he must escape the Company's grasp, but the allure of power and influence is too strong. He begins to wonder how far they will go to stop him, and the thought of facing the consequences of his actions sends shivers down his spine.

The electrifying first novel from award-winning Korean thriller-writer Im Seong-sun, now available in English for the first time, seamlessly blends the suspense and intrigue of crime fiction with searing social criticism. It presents a scathing take-down of global corporate life, exposing the darker side of capitalism and the corrosive effects it has on individuals and society as a whole.

Through his vivid and evocative prose, Im Seong-sun paints a vivid portrait of a world where consumerism reigns supreme, and individuals are reduced to mere commodities. He explores the insidious nature of corporate power, the exploitation of workers, and the erosion of personal autonomy. The Consultant's journey serves as a cautionary tale, a reminder of the dangers of blind obedience and the importance of questioning the status quo.

The novel's characters are well-developed and multi-dimensional, each with their own motivations and conflicts. The Consultant, portrayed with a sense of ambiguity and complexity, is a fascinating protagonist who struggles with his moral compass as he navigates the treacherous waters of corporate life. His interactions with other characters, both within and outside the Company, add depth and dimension to the story, creating a rich tapestry of human emotions and motivations.

The Consultant's journey is a testament to the power of resilience and the human spirit. Despite facing overwhelming odds and facing the darkest of realities, he refuses to be silenced. He fights against the forces that seek to control him, using his intelligence and resourcefulness to outwit his adversaries. His determination to escape the Company and expose the truth is unwavering, and his courage inspires readers to stand up against the forces that seek to undermine their autonomy and dignity.

In conclusion, The Consultant is a thought-provoking and compelling novel that delves deep into the complexities of consumerism, capitalism, and the human condition. Through its insightful and razor-sharp observations, author Im Seong-sun challenges our societal norms and examines the darker corners of human existence. The electrifying plot, well-developed characters, and searing social criticism make this a must-read for anyone who seeks to explore the intersection of crime fiction and social commentary. The Consultant is a testament to the power of resilience and the human spirit, reminding us that even in the face of adversity, we have the power to resist and shape our own destiny.

Weight: 322g
Dimension: 145 x 223 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526654144