The Irresistible Power of "Hench" - A Remarkable Novel by Natalie Zina Walschots

Have you ever wondered what it's like to be a henchperson? To work in the shadows, aiding and abetting some of the world's most notorious supervillains? Natalie Zina Walschots takes us on an unforgettable journey through the eyes of a henchman in her captivating novel, "Hench."

This genre-defying work of fiction brings a fresh perspective to the superhero trope, illuminating the hidden stories of those who often go unnoticed in the larger-than-life battle between heroes and villains. With a narrative that seamlessly blends elements of action, humor, and introspection, Walschots presents a thought-provoking tale that transcends traditional storytelling conventions.

"Hench" introduces us to Anna, a regular woman thrust into the treacherous world of villainy. Faced with limited job prospects, she reluctantly accepts a position as a henchman, hoping to earn a stable income. Little does she know that her life is about to drastically change as she becomes entangled in a global conflict that challenges her moral compass and forces her to question everything she thought she knew.

Hench: A Novel

by Natalie Zina Walschots(Kindle Edition)

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	447 pages
File size	:	3590 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

Walschots constructs a nuanced and relatable protagonist in Anna. Through her eyes, we witness the daily struggles of those often considered mere pawns in the grand scheme of good versus evil. Anna's journey unfolds in a way that compels readers to contemplate the blurred lines of morality and the consequences of one's actions in a world where power reigns supreme.

One of the most impressive aspects of "Hench" is Walschots' meticulous attention to detail. Her mastery is evident in her ability to craft a meticulously planned world filled with real-world consequences. Whether it's the aftermath of a city-wide battle or the emotional toll it takes on its inhabitants, the author's immersive storytelling draws readers in, transporting them into a realm where superheroes and supervillains are not merely caricatures but fully realized individuals.

Furthermore, Walschots skillfully weaves in social commentary, addressing themes such as workplace exploitation, gender dynamics, and societal expectations. Through her characters' experiences, she shines a light on the often unseen aspects of our own reality, challenging readers to examine the power structures that shape their lives.

With each page, "Hench" deepens its grip on readers, building tension and suspense until it reaches a crescendo that will leave you breathless. The pacing is impeccable, giving just enough time for readers to bond with the characters before hurtling them into action-packed sequences that will have you on the edge of your seat.

It's important to note that "Hench" isn't solely about thrilling superhero battles. Walschots explores the emotional toll and aftermath of living in a world where one wrong move can have dire consequences. By delving into the psyche of her characters, she elicits empathy from readers, making them invested not just in their physical well-being but also in their emotional journey.

When discussing "Hench," it is impossible to overlook Walschots' masterful use of language. Her prose is both elegant and accessible, striking a perfect balance between literary prowess and readability. Each word is carefully chosen, creating vivid imagery and memorable scenes that linger in the reader's mind long after the final page.

, "Hench" is a truly remarkable novel that defies expectations and breathes new life into the superhero genre. Natalie Zina Walschots' ability to craft a compelling narrative, coupled with her exploration of complex themes, sets this novel apart. Whether you're a fan of superheroes or simply appreciate a well-told story, "Hench" is a must-read that will leave you yearning for more.

Hench: A Novel

by Natalie Zina Walschots(Kindle Edition)

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	447 pages
File size	:	3590 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

“This book is fast, furious, compelling, and angry as hell." -- Seanan McGuire, New York Times bestselling author

The Boys meets My Year of Rest and Relaxation in this smart, imaginative, and evocative novel of love, betrayal, revenge, and redemption, told with razor-sharp wit and affection, in which a young woman discovers the greatest superpower—for good or ill—is a properly executed spreadsheet.

Anna does boring things for terrible people because even criminals need office help and she needs a job. Working for a monster lurking beneath the surface of the world isn’t glamorous. But is it really worse than working for an oil conglomerate or an insurance company? In this economy?

 As a temp, she’s just a cog in the machine. But when she finally gets a promising assignment, everything goes very wrong, and an encounter with the so-called “hero” leaves her badly injured.  And, to her horror, compared to the other bodies strewn about, she’s the lucky one.

So, of course, then she gets laid off.

With no money and no mobility, with only her anger and internet research acumen, she discovers her suffering at the hands of a hero is far from unique. When people start listening to the story that her data tells, she realizes she might not be as powerless as she thinks.

Because the key to everything is data: knowing how to collate it, how to manipulate it, and how to weaponize it. By tallying up the human cost these caped forces of nature wreak upon the world, she discovers that the line between good and evil is mostly marketing.  And with social media and viral videos, she can control that appearance.

It’s not too long before she’s employed once more, this time by one of the worst villains on earth. As she becomes an increasingly valuable lieutenant, she might just save the world.

A sharp, witty, modern debut, Hench explores the individual cost of justice through a fascinating mix of Millennial office politics, heroism measured through data science, body horror, and a profound misunderstanding of quantum mechanics.