Agnes and the Hitman Summary & Key Insights

Jennifer Crusie and Bob Mayer's "Agnes and the Hitman" is a romantic comedy revolving around the unlikely pairing of Agnes, a perpetually unlucky, yet fiercely independent, bookstore owner, and Remo, a surprisingly sensitive hitman. The narrative unfolds with a darkly humorous blend of romance, action, and witty banter.

Agnes, a middle-aged woman struggling with a string of unfortunate events (including a disastrous blind date and a near-miss with a runaway shopping cart), finds herself inexplicably drawn into the world of organized crime. This happens when she witnesses a hit gone wrong outside her bookstore, inadvertently becoming the target of a ruthless mob boss known only as "The Man." In a bizarre twist, Remo, a hitman hired to eliminate her, is tasked with her protection instead. This shift stems from a complex series of events involving Remo's begrudging loyalty to his boss and a crucial piece of information Agnes unwittingly possesses – a seemingly insignificant detail that proves incredibly valuable.

Remo, a professional killer with a surprisingly soft spot, initially sees Agnes as a liability. He's a man of routine and efficiency, and Agnes's chaotic nature throws him completely off balance. However, as they spend time together navigating perilous situations and dodging bullets, a reluctant affection blossoms. Their forced proximity, peppered with comedic misunderstandings and near-death experiences, slowly erodes their initial prejudices. Remo finds himself increasingly irritated and, unexpectedly, charmed by Agnes's resilience and quirky personality. Agnes, in turn, discovers a hidden depth to Remo, peeling away the layers of his hardened exterior to reveal a vulnerable, thoughtful man.

The central plot revolves around their attempts to stay alive while also unraveling the mystery surrounding The Man and the valuable information Agnes inadvertently holds. This involves navigating dangerous encounters with various mobsters, solving clues, and relying on each other's strengths – Agnes's sharp wit and observational skills complementing Remo's lethal expertise.

The overarching theme is the unexpected nature of love and connection. The seemingly disparate characters of Agnes and Remo find common ground in their shared experiences and discover a surprising romantic chemistry amidst the chaos. The book also explores themes of second chances, finding strength in vulnerability, and the possibility of finding love in the most unconventional circumstances. The humour stems from the stark contrast between the high-stakes criminal underworld and the everyday struggles of Agnes's life, further heightened by the unlikely and deeply romantic relationship that develops between the protagonist and the initially menacing hitman. The novel's successful blend of action, comedy, and romance culminates in a satisfying resolution that showcases the transformation and growth of both characters.