"Life Kills" by Miles Vertigan is a riveting exploration of the darker side of human existence, focusing on the tumultuous journey of protagonist Jake Whitman. As the narrative unfolds, we are introduced to Jake, a young man whose life has been marked by disappointment, disillusionment, and a pervasive sense of aimlessness. Struggling to find his footing in a world that seems determined to crush his spirit, Jake becomes ensnared in a downward spiral of desperation and despair. The novel delves deep into Jake's psyche, offering readers a glimpse into his inner turmoil and the forces that drive him to make increasingly risky choices. As he grapples with his own demons and confronts the harsh realities of his circumstances, Jake finds himself drawn into a world of crime, violence, and moral ambiguity. Each decision he makes pulls him further away from the life he once envisioned for himself, leading him down a path fraught with danger and uncertainty. Against the gritty backdrop of an urban landscape teeming with corruption and decay, "Life Kills" paints a vivid portrait of a society in crisis and the individuals who inhabit its darkest corners. Through Jake's journey, the novel explores profound themes of identity,