I'll be honest. This book almost didn't make the cut. I reached the end of the sample and had to think about whether I wanted to commit to the book or not. I flipped a mental coin and went for it.

I'm so glad I did.

Hoefer's tale of alien not-quite-conquest manages to turn a scatological first act into a tender tour de force by the end.

Benjamin Taylor's negative self image and fear of public speaking makes him feel quite real in the midst of a surreal encounter with overgrown caterpillars. His absurd relationship with his boss plays against the blossoming relationships he forms with his fellow travelers as the story unfolds.

If you're a fan of first contact stories, or even alien conquest tales, you owe it to yourself to check this one out.

Highly recommended.