STARRED Book Review: Welcome to the Inferno

Reviewed by Melissa Suggitt

An explosively funny take on the classic seven deadly sins

As a former server with a deep love for people getting their dues and the Food Network, I was eager to dive into the wonderfully niche Welcome to The Inferno by Daniel Parme. 

This short satire (and possibly horror) novel surpassed all my expectations. A late-year favorite! If you’re looking for a well-crafted, hilarious, and insightful read about the service industry, this book is a must.

Welcome to The Inferno begins with a young server wrapping up a particularly chaotic double shift at his restaurant and bar. On his way home, he’s assaulted by the very patrons he refused to serve earlier that evening. This unsettling event leads to an even more surreal experience when he awakens to find himself face-to-face with what appears to be the ghost of Anthony Bourdain.

From this bizarre encounter, readers are taken on a darkly comedic and deeply insightful journey through the layers of Hell where the seven deadly sins are explored through the unique lens of the service industry. Guided by Tony (an enigmatic specter from Hell), the protagonist, referred to only as “kid,” navigates a world where the intricacies of the underworld’s restaurant scene are both torturous and political, all within a place aptly named The Inferno.

Parme’s genius lies in his ability to create hilariously specific sins that anyone in the service industry (or anyone who’s dined out) will find all too relatable. From “sitting on the same side of a table when they are the only two guests seated at said table” in Lust, to “people who drink enough free refills of Diet Coke to fill an Olympic-sized swimming pool” in Gluttony, these infractions add a layer of absurd humor that keeps the reader entertained.

What truly sets this book apart is Parme’s wonderfully descriptive narrative. He paints vivid images of Hell without bogging down the reader with unnecessary details. He crafts a sensory experience that makes you see, feel, taste, and even smell the infernal setting—although readers beware, there’s a lot of human excrement in Hell. Either way, it’s a testament to his skill as a writer.

One of the highlights for me was trying to identify the famous celebrity chefs who inspired the various Guardians of Hell. The depiction of Worm Guy Fieri is unforgettable (and you can’t convince me Tastyville isn’t a playful nod to Flavortown). Hell’s version of Gordon Ramsay is also spot-on, adding an extra layer of enjoyment for foodies and fans of culinary television, and for those who’ve always wanted to scream at a customer. 

The banter between the protagonist and Tony is another standout feature. Their exchanges are funny, crass, and refreshingly realistic, making the dialogue one of the book’s strongest elements. I found myself laughing out loud a number of times, a testament to Parme’s success in blending humor with his horror.

Welcome to The Inferno is an absolute delight. It’s a cleverly crafted, darkly comedic romp that offers both entertainment and insight. I can’t wait to read it again and uncover even more hidden details, allegories, and life lessons. Hats off to the chef author—this is one delicious dish.

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