TL;DR
The Consultant by Bentley Little is a darkly satirical horror novel about a mysterious consultant who takes over a struggling company, leading to chaos, paranoia, and mortal danger for the employees.
What is The Consultant about
The Consultant centers on CompWare, a company in turmoil after a failed merger. To salvage their situation, they hire a consulting firm, led by the enigmatic Mr. Patoff. Initially, Patoff’s odd behavior seems merely intrusive, but as he gains more control, his methods become increasingly oppressive and bizarre. Surveillance, intimidation, and brutal enforcement of arbitrary rules create a culture of fear. Ultimately, employees realize they are fighting for their lives. Bentley Little's novel combines workplace satire with horror, delving into themes of corporate power and human vulnerability.
The Consultant 5 Key Takeaways
CompWare's Crisis
CompWare, a company in distress after a failed merger, hires a consulting firm to revitalize its business. The firm sends the peculiar Mr. Patoff to manage the project.
Mr. Patoff's Arrival
Mr. Patoff, with his unsettling demeanor and peculiar habits, begins to implement invasive and arbitrary changes, creating unease among the employees.
Increased Control
Patoff escalates his control, installing surveillance cameras and enforcing a culture of paranoia and fear. Employees are monitored constantly, both at work and at home.
Intimidation and Menace
Patoff starts calling employees at odd hours, visiting their homes, and terrorizing their families. Those who resist face dire consequences, including job termination and worse.
The Monstrous Revelation
Towards the book's end, Patoff's true nature is revealed. He sheds his corporate façade to become a faceless entity, communicating through employees' minds, escalating the horror to a new level.
Top The Consultant Quotes
- "He had no mouth, but he could speak into their minds."
- "The office had become a panopticon, every move under scrutiny."
Who should read The Consultant?
Fans of horror and dark satire will find The Consultant compelling. Those interested in corporate dynamics and psychological thrillers will appreciate the novel's unique blend of office politics and supernatural terror.
The Consultant Best Reviews
- "Bentley Little's The Consultant is a chilling blend of corporate satire and pure horror. His portrayal of the invasive consultant is both darkly humorous and terrifying." - Publisher's Weekly
- "A sinister take on the modern workplace, The Consultant will leave readers questioning their own office dynamics. Little masterfully blends satire with supernatural terror." - Kirkus Reviews
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The Consultant FAQs
What is the story behind The Consultant?
The Consultant follows Mr. Patoff, a mysterious consultant, who takes control of CompWare, a company in crisis, leading to a nightmarish environment for its employees.
What happens at the end of The Consultant?
Towards the end, Mr. Patoff reveals his true monstrous form, shedding his corporate executive façade to become a faceless entity that can communicate directly with the minds of employees.
Is The Consultant based on a book?
Yes, The Consultant is based on a novel by Bentley Little, known for his darkly satirical and horror-infused storytelling.