What happens to a man in his late 50,s who’s been laid off of a career job four plus years? In a entertaining dark thriller in the likes of Herman Koch and the movie Falling comes a page turner not to be put down. Highly recommend!

What a great book! Mixing suspense with a good dose of dark humor, this book quickly becomes a page turner.

Remember the movie Falling Down with Michael Douglas? If you’ve seen that movie, you’ve got a pretty good idea of the general idea behind Inhuman Resources by Pierre Lemaitre. It’s been four years since 57-year-old HR manager Alain Delambre was laid off from a jewelry company, and he hasn’t found a good job since. His current job sorting packages for a pharmaceutical company is no exception. He’s treated like crap and disrespected continuously. The last straw comes when his manager, Mehmet, literally kicks him in the ass after losing his cool over a missing code. But Alain isn’t one to take anything lying down.

That’s when I did something for the first time in my life: I lifted my head back, very slowly, as though I was admiring the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, and then whipped it forward with a sharp motion. Just like I’d seen on television. A head-butt, they call it. Charles, being homeless, gets beaten up a lot, and knows all about it. “Nice technique,” he told me. For a first-timer, it seemed a decent effort.

The whole situation doesn’t bode well for Alain’s future, but when he gets a letter from BLC Consulting offering him an opportunity to score a job with prominent company Exxyal Europe, he finally sees a light at the end of an increasingly long, dark tunnel. His wife, Nicole, is ecstatic. She knows what not being gainfully employed has done to Alain’s self-esteem, and their marriage ―and bank account ― has suffered for it as well. She’s optimistic and supportive until Alain reveals what he will face during the recruiting process. BLC Consulting wants to use an unusual process to weed out undesirables: a role-playing exercise where armed commandos will enact a hostage situation. Anyone with a sense of self-preservation would most likely recoil from this, and Alain has some reservations, but his desire for more meaningful and lucrative employment dulls that voice of reason that keeps trying to assert itself. This enterprise is called the Hostage-Taking Simulation Plan and has the potential to be as terrifying as it sounds. Alain is not to be deterred, however, even when Nicole flat out tells him that she won’t support it.

Alain wants to make sure he has every advantage and will do just about anything to do it. He even shakes down his own daughter for the money to hire an investigation firm to dig up dirt on his fellow candidates, telling her that he and her mother need it to survive. Pretty rotten right? The thing is, Alain knows it’s vile, and it doesn’t slow him down one bit. There’s definitely something to be said for that kind of sociopathic determination.

When it comes time for the operation, the POV switches and readers get a glimpse of Alain from a completely different point of view. It’s a striking and clever bit of storytelling, because the narrator almost immediately makes a decision about Alain. His first impression:

His face was haggard, almost deathly pale. He had clearly cut himself shaving as there was an unpleasant red scab on his right cheek. A nervous tic made his left eye twitch intermittently, and his palms were sweaty. Any one of these symptoms would have been enough to suggest that he was feeling extremely out of his depth in this situation, and that he had little chance of seeing it through to the end.

In fact, he makes a call to the powers-that-be with this recommendation:

“Monsieur Delambre strikes me as being in very poor shape. I think he’s a nonstarter.”

Uh oh.

Things aren’t looking good for our anti-hero, but of course, they’ve underestimated Alain. Even though we know that the hostage situation isn’t real, Lemaitre manages to make the entire sequence pretty terrifying, revealing the strengths and the weaknesses among the candidates in the midst of a pretty realistically staged scenario (or so it seems.) Of course, Alain has a surprise for everyone stashed up his sleeve. To reveal much more would be to risk spoilers, but it doesn’t disappoint, and the denouement makes a wry sort of sense, especially in a world where troublemakers so frequently cash in from their misadventures.

Lemaitre manages to mine some wild, dark, and desperate humor out of an almost ridiculously horrid situation, and strangely, it works. You’ll find yourself laughing quite a lot, entirely despite yourself, at this genuinely effective look at what can drive someone to completely cross the line. You may not like Alain, but it’s likely that you’ll sympathize with him a little bit, even as you wince as he spirals out of control. This is a disturbing, and disturbingly funny, satire that will resonate with anyone that’s had to navigate the inhumanities and inanities of corporate employment or shabby treatment at the hands of superiors.

There is an old saying,“ People are like tea bags. If you want to know what they are made of stick them in hot water.” I believe this saying applies to the good and bad characteristics which emerge when people are in a difficult or challenging situation. With respect to Inhuman Resources, Pierre Lemaitre’s latest English translation, readers discover a character pushed to the brink by unemployment, fear of poverty, and the need to regain his dignity.

At 57 years old Alain Delambre is out of work. With few prospects but in need of an income, he has taken a job for which he is way over qualified. When an unexpected and seemingly impossible job opportunity presents itself, Alain is determined to get the job. He studies the company and its upper management endlessly. The company has a very unusual and morally questionable interview process. This does not deter Alain, it makes him even more committed to getting the job. As he prepares for the interview, he begins to unravel. Alain’s determination and desperation becomes his undoing.

After reading Lemaitre’s 2017 release Blood Wedding, I realized Lemaitre had a flare for the dramatic. Like Blood Wedding the central plot of Inhuman Resources is realistic and relatable. However when things turn bad for the characters they get really bad. At this point the drama kicks into high gear. The plot is then filled with over the top reactions and unthinkable actions take center stage. While some readers may be turned off by the dramatics, I found them quite enjoyable. No matter where I thought the story was going I was wrong. Unpredictability and truly insane characters is what kept me glued to Inhuman Resources.

Many readers will find Alain unlikeable. The lengths he is willing to go to in order to get a job are indeed despicable. However I still found myself feeling sympathy for Alain. The idea of losing my job so close to retirement is truly frightening. I can understand his fear of an uncertain future and the possibility of losing everything. While the story is filled with theatrics, the situation Alain finds himself in is very realistic and could happen to anyone. Inhuman Resources will make readers really think about what they could be capable of in Alain’s situation.

Inhuman Resources is a thrilling and captivating read. Any book which makes me think about what I would do in the characters shoes I automatically like. Add in severely flawed characters and a morally corrupt company, I am in for a read I will love. Readers looking for a crime fiction read with a corporate twist should Inhuman Resources to their list of must reads.





Murder and Moore Rating :

4.5 out of 5 Stars

I read Blood Wedding by Pierre Lemaitre a couple years back and I absolutely loved the craziness that was that book and devoured every word in record time. When I saw Inhuman Resources being offered on NetGalley I didn't even hesitate to request it.

This book starts off strong and Mr. Lemaitre's humor and wit is immediately evident.

Alain Delambre is a 57 year old man that had once been in charge of HR for a large company but has since been out of work for the last 4 years after being laid off. He has taken several menial jobs well below his pay scale in order to salvage any bit of dignity he has remaining. When an opportunity presents itself that will question his morals and values he has to ask himself how far is he willing to go to land the job he so deserves. Neither his wife or daughters can understand what has become of their husband and father.

"I've never been a violent man. For as long as I can remember, I have never wanted to kill anyone. The odd flare of temper, sure, but never any desire to inflict proper pain. To destroy. So, when it happened, I suppose it took me by surprise."

Now this had everything going for it for me as a reader. So many laugh out loud moments in which I couldn't help relating to in some way. I got a Michael Douglas in Falling Down vibe from this which totally made my heart happy. Alain is basically at his wits end and he can't take any more rejection. A man such as himself, that has worked his proverbial ass off, only to end up with no job and no prospects. How does this happen to someone when you've done everything "right" in life?

When Alain finds out that the opportunity he was vying for has been decided and handed to someone else he decides to take matters in his own hands once and for all.

"The moment people start wearing their morals on their sleeves, you can be positive there's something unmentionable going on behind closed doors." <--- TRUTH!

Again, the first 1/3 of this I was totally loving but then I just got so confused with all the characters. The French names I really struggled with and it was impossible for me to differentiate between who was who. This made me feel very disconnected to this book right up until the end. C'est la vie!

Thank you to NetGalley and Quercus (US) for providing me with a digital ARC in exchange for my honest review.

This was a great suspense novel, as it was character driven and had a unique premise. Highly recommend! I will be seeking out more by this author in the future.

"It only takes a couple of seconds for a man to become a maniac."

Alain Delambre, 57-years-old and unemployed for 4 years, is a desperate man. When he receives word that he may finally get an interview for an HR position at a prestigious company, he's totally elated and prepares for the "test" with total focus. He takes extraordinary risks in the days leading up to that big day. He can't stop lying either. The main problem at hand, however, and the issue that his wife objects to, is that this assessment of his qualifications involves a set-up including a staged hostage situation engineered as a pretext of seeing how executives function under stress and pressure. Alain is "in" on the scenario and is willing to do whatever it takes to secure the job. When he discovers that the whole thing is a sham, he goes off the deep end. "The basic ingredients (a sense of humiliation or injustice, extreme loneliness, a weapon and nothing to lose) all resulted in" the cataclysm that occurred at the offsite interview location that day. The events that follow change Alain forever. NO SPOILERS.

This was such a different type of book compared to the others of his that I have read. It's nothing like the serial killer thriller chillers he's written before (ALEX, IRENE, CAMILLE for example). In fact, this is more of a Jonathan Franzen style satirical drama, but I totally enjoyed it despite what I was expecting. The writing is top-notch, translated from French by Sam Gordon, and nothing is lost for that. The action is evenly paced and there is suspense and tension as the reader can't even anticipate what might happen next though it's hard not to feel a great deal of empathy for Alain and his family. Characterization was sublime. The theme of unemployment and how it affects the jobless is definitely at the forefront, but also the notion that work is essential for some to feel alive, to be a whole person. It's not light fare but is very engrossing and I know I'll think about this one for quite some time. I'd love to dissect this in a book club!

Thank you to NetGalley and MacLehose Press Quercus for the e-book ARC to read and review.

This is absolutely a surprising read filled with twist and turns, just when you think you have figured out how the ending will be another plot twist takes you in a different direction. This mild mannered 57 year old family man who lost his job 4 years before and is trying to keep hope alive that he will find another position in HR, however when a series of unfortunate events puts his need of work over everything else he becomes a desperately flawed character willing to do anything to secure a future for his family even if it cost him his life.

I am a Pierre Lemaitre fan and am so very thankful that his books are being translated. He has a wit about him and a beautiful writing style. That being said, reading this one was somewhat of a struggle. The story felt like a ginsu knife commercial: "but wait there's more." Every time the reader got to what felt like the climax of the plot, something changed and the story went on and on. Parts of the story that didn't seem to be important received a lot of page space and this left me confused, as though Mr. Lemaitre wasn't sure where the story was going so just kept on free form writing, hoping something would coalesce. This won't keep me from reading the next book he writes. Some book has to be your least favorite from an author, right?

Thank you Netgalley and MacLehouse Press for a preview of this thriller set to release next month. Alain has been unemployed for four years and he’s 60 years old. When told he’s due for a second interview, he pulls out all the stops preparing to be the most superior candidate this company has ever seen. Then moments before the interview, he finds out the company’s plan which sets him on edge. Told in three parts – before, during and after – this story will set your teeth on edge. Told in a dry, sardonic tone, it makes the reader truly understand what it’s like for seniors to be unemployed and living without enough income.

I loved the unique plot, which kept me reading to find out how it all resolved. I do think, and this is a cliché, something was lost in the translation from French. Large swathes of narration bogged down the flow and had me skipping pages to get back into the action. Still, a very worthy read if you’re ready for something a little different.

My thanks to NetGalley for a Kindle ARC of Inhuman Resources.

I was excited to receive an early copy to read because I've been a fan of the author since I read his Commandant Trilogy several years ago.

Inhuman Resources is a satirical look at our economy, the employment rate, the desperation of an aging man who will do anything, and I do mean anything, to get a job.

** Minor spoilers ahead **

Alain Delambre has been unemployed for four years after being laid off from his executive management position. Now he's working part-time at a menial, demeaning job for minor ducats and suffering blows to his dignity and integrity.

When he applies for a HR assistant position, he is thrilled when the headhunter contacts him for a chance at the job. Alain is so desperate for this job, he sacrifices his morals and honor to do whatever is necessary to help him gain the upper hand in securing the position.

But when a disgruntled intern tells him he has no hope of landing the position, Alain snaps. And decides to take matters into his own hand.

The novel is divided into three parts; the first is narrated by Alain, the second part by a supporting character observing Alain's actions and the third part is voiced by Alain again, as he summarizes the results of his actions in the second half of the novel.

Alain is a decent but flawed men. Like most people, he isn't bad but he does make poor choices especially when he is stressed.

He's your everyman, a hard worker, he enjoys working and to provide for his family.He makes amusing, self deprecating remarks about his life, his co-workers, his son-in-law that are blunt and honest.

The narrative does drag at some parts, and though there are some scenes where I found my ability to suspend disbelief challenged, I was able to do so most of the time, especially since the story began to sound more cinematic and action oriented.

I do want to point out one positive. I love surprises and the one surprise that stood out for me was Charlie, Alain's loyal friend and co-worker.

His willingness to stand by Alain despite everything that had happened, his kind and supporting nature and his sacrifice at the end prove that supporting characters are just as vital to a narrative as the story and main characters as well.

The ending is realistic in that its not quite happy, more or less believable after everything that's occurred and depending upon how willing you are to suspend disbelief.

A small part of me finds it difficult to believe that Alain regrets everything he has done, after what it has cost him and he is forced to confront the consequences of his actions.

I don't believe he did it for his family, to ensure they would be taken care of forever, but to salve his ego and self-image. In the end, we are also selfish idiots and don't realize what we have was good until we don't even have it anymore.

Alain Delambre, a late 50's, laid-off HR representative who is, understandably, a bit jaded. When he's fired from the inferior job he's been working for next-to-nothing, Alan decides he will find another job in his specialty: Human Resources. In order to get the coveted position however, he must employ some drastic measures and the cost to him and his family may be more than he bargained for.

Recommended.

Inhuman Resources by Pierre Lemaitre, a shocking read. This book is filled from beginning to end with twists and turns, the ups and downs of life and feelings. The first part of this book really shows the struggle and hardship of being out of work, the severe depression that long-term job seeking can push you into. The middle and ending of course pull you even further into the life of this man. PUT THIS BOOK ON YOUR TBR if you like mystery/thrillers.

It seems as if Alain DeLambre cannot stay in the clear. He is 57 and has been severely underemployed working 3 hours a day. Alain used to be a Human Resources (HR) Manager but was laid off 4 years ago, after being there 17 years.
Alain's search for work has become his full-time job. Being older and out of the field for awhile, he feels depressed, desperate and angry. After being kicked in the butt by his supervisor at his current job - he headbutts the guy. Well, there goes the 3 hour a day job.

A response arrives to Alain for a prestigious job in HR. Yes, he needs to take an aptitude test. Passing that, an interview would be next. His sweet, pretty, honest wife, Nicole, is excited, too. The two of them have been living sparsely for a while now - their savings close to depletion. Nicole works, but it is not enough with a mortgage and all. Their two daughters Mathilde (English teacher) and Lucie (a lawyer) are now in their twenties and live away from home.

Finally, a letter arrives that tells Alain that he passed the aptitude test and to go ahead and schedule an interview. WOW!

But the interview has a catch - he needs to assess 5 high-ranking individuals (at Exxyal - he finds out)- a major gas & oil company. He has to do this during a role-play that involves a "faked" hostage situation to see how the 5 individuals react. His wife thinks that this is an evil plan probably set up by an evil company. Eventually, Alain tells her that he will not continue to pursue it the job, but he does continue. The only way he thinks he can nail the job is to spend lots of money on a PI to find out dirt on the 5 individuals that he will be assessing. He needs $25,000 in order to do that.. His son-in-law says no. So, Alain punches him in the face -(he never liked him, anyway). Alain decides that he has become a violent man. Later that day, he coaxes his daughter to lend him the money - and she does. He also hires a former (?) mercenary to help him with tactics for the hostage operation. Also, he buys an automatic pistol and another gun. Oh, boy!

The day of the role-play; only one other candidate is there; Juliette Rivet. Two others had bowed out (as probably should have Alain - he was warned that he was just a filler choice). But no - he is going to do this. The tables then turn a few times and Alain eventually winds up in prison.

Just how much must Alain (and the general public) put up with all of these "injustices"? Read this and find out!

I guarantee that you will not be disappointed !!!

Great read - Many thanks to Quercus Publishing and NetGalley for another roller coaster of a ride!!!!!

This book left me with a migraine headache. Why? Because I read for hours on end, unwilling to lazily wait for the ending. Having worked myself for decades in a similarly stressful corporate environment (though admittedly nowhere near that described in this novel!), there were certainly interpersonal relationships and political maneuvers that rang a familiar bell with me. Well-written and evocative, I highly recommend this book.

I will forever have a soft spot for this author, however, nothing seems to compare to Irene and Alex. I will keep reading Lemaitre’s books simply waiting for that magic to come back.

Alain Delambre is a 57-year-old man who worked as an HR executive, has been fired for four years, only manages to get small jobs unrelated to his area of expertise.

So when he gets an interview with a major company, Alain does everything to get that job, from lying to his wife, fighting with his daughter, borrowing money, and even agreeing to participate in a drill involving kidnapped people. But soon he realizes that he is just one more piece in a plan that already has a solution and everything starts to get worse.

I am a big fan of Lemaitre's work, it impresses me how he manages to get such strange, unimaginable themes and turn them into a great suspense novel, like this one.

The story is told in three parts, the before, during and after. The first part is a bit boring and slow, in the second the tension and the mystery come into action and the end is an intriguing thriller that keeps you very involved in the drama. It is a story with tense situations, depressing and with a bit of black humor. This is a novel worthy of adding on your to-read list.

Thank you to Quercus Books and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. The thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. #inhumanResources #NetGalley

4+ stars
More unexpected twists and turns than can be imagined. Just when you think you have an idea what's coming or have figured things out, something totally different comes about. Infused with a Gallic sense of irony, this highly absorbing thriller delves into the psyche of people in stressful situations.

(Published in 2010 as Cadres Noirs and deftly translated into English in 2018.)

Not the typical Lemaitre body count Noir I’ve come to love and admire but interesting none the less. A more traditional type mystery and evolves nicely throughout. Remains an author that deserves a much wider audience. Eagerly await his soon to released Noir.

This book was not at all what I expected. It was even better. Alain Delambre is a man who is down on his luck. Unemployed and desperate he finally finds something that to him sounds good. But what does it all mean taking hostages? Is this a game? You will see that the writer does a great job framing the story as well as the characters and this will keep you wanting more. It was like being on a roller coaster. Hold on tight, the next turn might just be your last. Pay attention because there are things that are said that will enhance the story and make it all come together perfectly in the end.


5 stars ⭐️ out of 5

Thank you to netgalley as well as the author for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest review