This is the first volume of a series of shared world anthology books begun in 1986 and scheduled for re-release. In hell, various factions try to either escape or take over Satan's domain with the expected chances of success. Each writer brings a fresh perspective using primarily historical figures, although some beings (such as the Undertaker and the Welcome Woman) are fictional yet important parts of the milieu. Often humorous and surprisingly thought provoking, I highly recommend this book - as well as the entire series it spawns - to any and all fans of fantasy fiction. And, if you like this book, watch for this summer's release of Lawyers in Hell, the first book in the rebirth of the series.