Saxon James' Himbo Hitman is a delightful romp through the world of crime, comedy, and unexpected romance. The book takes a unique spin on the hitman trope by introducing us to a protagonist who is, quite frankly, terrible at his job. This premise alone sets the stage for a story that is as humorous as it is engaging, offering readers a fresh take on the crime genre.

The protagonist, whose name we never learn, is a hitman who has managed to bungle every job he's been assigned. His ineptitude is both his curse and his charm, making him an endearing character despite his morally questionable profession. The blurb humorously describes his attempts at "unaliving" people, which consistently end in failure. This sets the tone for a book that doesn't take itself too seriously, allowing readers to enjoy the absurdity of the situations the protagonist finds himself in.

One of the standout aspects of Himbo Hitman is its character development. The protagonist's journey from a bumbling hitman to someone questioning his career and sexuality is both humorous and heartfelt. His interactions with the man he dubs "Van Gogh" (due to an unfortunate ear incident) are particularly compelling. Their relationship evolves from one of mistrust and animosity to something deeper and more meaningful. This progression is handled with a deft touch, balancing humor with genuine emotion.

The theme of identity is central to the narrative. Our protagonist is forced to confront who he is and what he wants out of life. His initial motivations are purely financial, but as the story unfolds, he begins to question the morality of his actions and the path he's chosen. This internal conflict adds depth to the character and elevates the story beyond a simple comedic caper.

Another theme that James explores is the idea of trust. The protagonist's relationship with Van Gogh is fraught with tension due to their initial encounter. However, as they are forced to work together, they must learn to trust one another. This theme is mirrored in the protagonist's own journey as he learns to trust himself and his instincts, despite his past failures.

The book's pacing is brisk, keeping readers engaged from start to finish. James expertly weaves together elements of comedy, action, and romance, ensuring that there's never a dull moment. The dialogue is sharp and witty, adding to the overall enjoyment of the story. The comedic elements are particularly well-executed, with the protagonist's self-deprecating humor providing plenty of laugh-out-loud moments.

In terms of impact, Himbo Hitman is a refreshing addition to the crime genre. It subverts expectations by presenting a hitman who is more lovable fool than cold-blooded killer. This subversion is reminiscent of other works that blend crime and comedy, such as Janet Evanovich's Stephanie Plum series or Carl Hiaasen's novels. However, James' book stands out due to its unique protagonist and the exploration of themes like identity and trust.

While the book is primarily a comedy, it doesn't shy away from moments of genuine emotion. The protagonist's journey is one of self-discovery, and his interactions with Van Gogh add a layer of depth to the story. The romance that develops between them is both unexpected and heartwarming, providing a satisfying counterpoint to the comedic elements.

Overall, Himbo Hitman is a thoroughly enjoyable read that offers a fresh take on the hitman genre. Saxon James has crafted a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, with well-developed characters and a plot that keeps readers engaged. Whether you're a fan of crime novels, romantic comedies, or simply looking for a book that will make you laugh, Himbo Hitman is well worth a read.

In conclusion, Saxon James has delivered a novel that is as charming as it is funny. Himbo Hitman is a testament to the power of humor and heart in storytelling, and it is sure to leave readers eagerly anticipating whatever James has in store next.