- ASIN: B0B2DPGK1J
- Publisher: The Book Guild (May 25, 2022)
- Publication date: May 25, 2022
- Language: English
- Print length: 335 pages
- Genre: British Romantic Comedy Thrillers
The BookViral Review:
Ian Hey’s No Lift and No Stairs is a sharp, darkly funny novel that brilliantly captures the chaos of working-class life, blending romance, workplace comedy, and crime drama into an utterly compelling read. Set against the backdrop of the removals business, the novel follows Peter Booth, an everyman trying to navigate both the absurdity of his job and the dangerous consequences of falling for the wrong woman. Hey’s writing is packed with dry wit, painfully real workplace struggles, and a slow-burning tension that builds as Peter finds himself tangled in something far more dangerous than moving heavy furniture.
Peter is a removal man, dragging himself through early mornings, frustrating customers, and the day-to-day madness of Stoneways Removals. But his life takes a dangerous turn when he starts dating Emily, a smart and intriguing woman who just happens to be the ex-girlfriend of Ray Henderson, a local gangster with a reputation for holding grudges.
At first, Peter’s biggest concerns are coffee shortages, Maurice’s non-stop wisecracks, and dealing with clueless clients like Alan Curdley and his ridiculous stone lion, Curly. But when Henderson asks Peter to do him a “favor,” things get messy. Peter is torn between keeping his head down or getting involved with the wrong people. But when Henderson finds out about Peter and Emily’s relationship, all bets are off—and Peter finds himself in far deeper trouble than he ever signed up for.
At its core, No Lift and No Stairs is a novel about ordinary people stuck in extraordinary (and often ridiculous) circumstances. Hey’s writing is razor-sharp, filled with quick-fire dialogue, dark humor, and moments of genuine tension. The novel explores the absurdity of everyday work life, depicting the removal business with a perfect mix of realism and comedy, showing the physical and emotional toll of dealing with clueless customers and ridiculous requests. Peter and Emily’s relationship is more than just romantic tension—it’s a slow-burn disaster waiting to happen. The book dives deep into what it means to stand by someone—or betray them—whether it’s the loyalty of friends like Ross and Maurice or the consequences of crossing the wrong people.
No Lift and No Stairs is part workplace comedy, part gritty drama, and part crime thriller, making it one of the most original contemporary fiction reads of the year. Funny, suspenseful, and full of moments that make you wince, laugh, and hold your breath, Ian Hey has crafted a story that sticks with you long after the last page.
If you love British humor, dark workplace antics, and the thrill of an underdog in over his head, this book is a must-read. It is an unreservedly recommended Golden Quill read.
