Who Would Like This Book:
If you love dark, compulsive psychological thrillers that get inside the mind of an unreliable (and seriously unsettling) narrator, this is a wild ride. The book has big "You" by Caroline Kepnes energy - perfect for readers who crave stories about obsession, unhealthy relationships, and how our perceptions can mess with the truth. If courtroom drama and gender politics intrigue you, especially when seen through a twisted, male-centric lens, you'll be fascinated (and probably infuriated) by the way society views women and desire. This book is disturbing, thought-provoking, and seriously hard to put down!
Who May Not Like This Book:
Some readers found Mike’s obsessive interior monologue repetitive and dreary, struggling with the story’s one-note perspective and lack of twists. If you prefer psychological thrillers with brisk pacing, multiple viewpoints, or more dialogue and action, you might find this book a slog. Sensitive readers may also be put off by the deeply unsettling nature of the protagonist’s behavior and the relentless tension. Not for those who want to root for likable or relatable characters!
About:
'Our Kind of Cruelty' by Araminta Hall is a dark and twisted novel that follows the story of Mike, a successful banker who becomes obsessed with his ex-girlfriend Verity. Mike is convinced that their breakup is just a part of a game they used to play called the Crave, leading to a chilling and suspenseful narrative that blurs the lines between reality and delusion. The book is told entirely from Mike's perspective, providing a deep dive into his mind and creating a sense of unease and tension throughout the story. As the plot unfolds, readers are left questioning the true motives of the characters and the disturbing dynamics of their relationships.
The writing style in 'Our Kind of Cruelty' is described as intense, gripping, and immersive, with an emphasis on the psychological aspects of the characters. The author, Araminta Hall, delves into themes of obsession, desire, and perception, crafting a narrative that keeps readers on edge and engaged until the very end. Through the use of an unreliable narrator and a suspenseful plot, Hall creates a story that challenges perceptions and explores the darker aspects of human relationships.
Genres:
Tropes/Plot Devices:
Topics:
Notes:
Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings
Triggers include themes of stalking, emotional and sexual manipulation, domestic violence, and psychological abuse.
From The Publisher:
"A searing, chilling sliver of perfection . . . May well turn out to be the year's best thriller." -Charles Finch, The New York Times Book Review
"This is simply one of the nastiest and most disturbing thrillers I've read in years. I loved it, right down to the utterly chilling final line." -Gillian Flynn
A spellbinding, darkly twisted novel about desire and obsession, and the complicated lines between truth and perception, Our Kind of Cruelty introduces Araminta Hall, a chilling new voice in psychological suspense.
This is a love story. Mike's love story.
Mike Hayes fought his way out of a brutal childhood and into a quiet, if lonely, life before he met Verity Metcalf. V taught him about love, and in return, Mike has dedicated his life to making her happy. He's found the perfect home, the perfect job; he's sculpted himself into the physical ideal V has always wanted. He knows they'll be blissfully happy together.
It doesn't matter that she hasn't been returning his e-mails or phone calls.
It doesn't matter that she says she's marrying Angus.
It's all just part of the secret game they used to play. If Mike watches V closely, he'll see the signs. If he keeps track of her every move, he'll know just when to come to her rescue . . .
Ratings (8)
Incredible (2) | |
Loved It (1) | |
Liked It (3) | |
It Was OK (2) |
Reader Stats (61):
Read It (9) | |
Currently Reading (1) | |
Want To Read (38) | |
Did Not Finish (1) | |
Not Interested (12) |
What can you read after
Our Kind of Cruelty?
About the Author:
Araminta Hall is the author of Everything and Nothing. She has an MA in creative writing and authorship from the University of Sussex, and teaches creative writing at New Writing South in Brighton, where she lives with her husband and three children. Our Kind of Cruelty is her first book published in the United States.
When you click the Amazon link and make a purchase, we may receive a small commision, at no cost to you.
