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Our Kind of Cruelty
This is a love story. This is a tragedy.
This is a book about a break up so bad that when you put the pieces of the love story back together, what you get is murder.
Mike understands that most of us travel through the world as one half of a whole, desperately searching for that missing person to make us complete.
But he and Verity are different. They have found each other and nothing and no one will tear them apart.
It doesn't matter that Verity is marrying another man.
It's all just part of a you see, Verity and Mike play a game together, a secret game they call 'the crave', the aim being to demonstrate what they both that Verity needs Mike, and only Mike.
Verity's upcoming marriage is the biggest game she and Mike have ever played. And it's for the highest stakes.
Except this time in order for Mike and Verity to be together someone has to die ...
This is a book about a break up so bad that when you put the pieces of the love story back together, what you get is murder.
Mike understands that most of us travel through the world as one half of a whole, desperately searching for that missing person to make us complete.
But he and Verity are different. They have found each other and nothing and no one will tear them apart.
It doesn't matter that Verity is marrying another man.
It's all just part of a you see, Verity and Mike play a game together, a secret game they call 'the crave', the aim being to demonstrate what they both that Verity needs Mike, and only Mike.
Verity's upcoming marriage is the biggest game she and Mike have ever played. And it's for the highest stakes.
Except this time in order for Mike and Verity to be together someone has to die ...
271 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 3, 2018
1260 people are currently reading
23135 people want to read
About the author
Araminta Hall
9 books552 followersAraminta Hall began her career in journalism as a staff writer on teen magazine Bliss, becoming Health and Beauty editor of New Woman. On her way, she wrote regular features for the Mirror's Saturday supplement and ghost-wrote the super-model Caprice's column.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,976 reviews
March 13, 2018
This was a fun read, and I can easily see it being one of the most buzz worthy novels of 2018. I'm clearly in the minority with my middle of the road rating, but please don't let that cause you to pass this one by. If anything, I think this novel helped me realize that I'm not as compatible with stories told from the male stalker POV as the majority of thriller readers are. If you enjoyed novels such as You by Caroline Kepnes and Best Day Ever by Kaira Rouda, I think you'll really take to this one and fully lose yourself in all of it's gritty, dark glory.
I don't want to get into plot specifics, because this is the type of book where getting spoiled on the ending will ruin the entire read for you, as it all hinges on you being surprised along the way. However, I think discussing in the abstract, it's quite easy to divide this slim book into two sections-part one and part two. Part one is actually the least exciting, and in some ways I guess that's good, because it caused me to give this a higher rating that I would have the other way around. Part one mostly focuses on our boy Mike's inner monologue, which means very little dialogue and heavy portions of slow thought processes. In the beginning it helped set the stage for amazing suspense, but after about twenty pages of this I found myself losing engagement, checking my phone, and staring off or daydreaming a time or two.
That said, it turns out all that inner monologue is quite important and vital to part two. Once we arrive here, the story takes off at breakneck speed and I couldn't put it down. The courtroom scenes were especially scintillating and, while I did initially guess how it would end, I found I was doubting myself at times, which shows how manipulative the author is with her writing. <--- And I mean this in the best way; manipulative writing is one of the aspects I value most in a novel.
Overall, I wasn't blown away, as it's very similar to a number of books I've read before and fairly predictable, but it sure was a fun read regardless. I always enjoy a good book about mentally unstable people and what makes them the way that they are, and this was definitely just that. Readers of mainstream psychological thrillers and current events will thoroughly enjoy Mike's love story and the implications that a few wrong choices can spur into action. Araminta Hall has proven she can write a compulsive story full of gasps and awes, and I sincerely am looking forward to what she brings next to the table.
*Many thanks to the publisher for providing my copy via NetGalley.
I don't want to get into plot specifics, because this is the type of book where getting spoiled on the ending will ruin the entire read for you, as it all hinges on you being surprised along the way. However, I think discussing in the abstract, it's quite easy to divide this slim book into two sections-part one and part two. Part one is actually the least exciting, and in some ways I guess that's good, because it caused me to give this a higher rating that I would have the other way around. Part one mostly focuses on our boy Mike's inner monologue, which means very little dialogue and heavy portions of slow thought processes. In the beginning it helped set the stage for amazing suspense, but after about twenty pages of this I found myself losing engagement, checking my phone, and staring off or daydreaming a time or two.
That said, it turns out all that inner monologue is quite important and vital to part two. Once we arrive here, the story takes off at breakneck speed and I couldn't put it down. The courtroom scenes were especially scintillating and, while I did initially guess how it would end, I found I was doubting myself at times, which shows how manipulative the author is with her writing. <--- And I mean this in the best way; manipulative writing is one of the aspects I value most in a novel.
Overall, I wasn't blown away, as it's very similar to a number of books I've read before and fairly predictable, but it sure was a fun read regardless. I always enjoy a good book about mentally unstable people and what makes them the way that they are, and this was definitely just that. Readers of mainstream psychological thrillers and current events will thoroughly enjoy Mike's love story and the implications that a few wrong choices can spur into action. Araminta Hall has proven she can write a compulsive story full of gasps and awes, and I sincerely am looking forward to what she brings next to the table.
*Many thanks to the publisher for providing my copy via NetGalley.
April 20, 2018
Everything is a game, V used to tell me; only stupid people forget that.
I'm not sure how I feel about this book, to be honest. It was a little jarring to discover that it was nothing like I expected it to be. The title and blurb made me think this was going to be a really dark, possibly disturbing, psychological thriller in the vein of Kepnes' You, but it just never felt like that kind of story at all.
Our Kind of Cruelty is nowhere near as dark as I expected. In fact, it's fairly tame for the most part. And it feels like two very different books in one.
The first two thirds (approx) feature an introspective examination of a not entirely unsympathetic character called Mike. I don't want to in any way condone his actions (stalking, fabricating a fictional relationship to himself and others), but it seemed clear to me that he was mentally ill and deeply confused about the nature of his relationship with Verity, which was tied in with issues he had from an early childhood living with his alcoholic mother and abusive father.
This part is interesting for a while but it does get tedious as we are taken through the same cycles of thought again and again - Mike attempts to contact V, V assures him she is happy in her new relationship, Mike decides she must still be playing the Crave. Which, by the way, is a game the couple used to play to turn them on. V would stand alone by a bar and wait for a man to flirt with her, then the muscular Mike would approach and possessively drive the man away with something like "why are you talking to my girlfriend?"
The second part in the final third turns into a courtroom drama (this is not a spoiler; we are told in chapter one that Mike is writing a statement for the barrister). And I have to confess-- I do love me some courtroom battles. I think that's the main reason I enjoyed Anatomy of a Scandal.
But I think, overall, this book was just kind of average. Everything positive I have to say about it feels followed by a "but...". Some interesting characterization in the first part, but it grew boring after a while. A tense courtroom drama, but nothing to separate it from all the rest. I also feel like this particular story would have benefited from more ambiguity.
Maybe not bad for a mindless beach read, but it is unlikely I will remember this book for very long.
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July 2, 2018
“Everything is a game, V used to tell me; only stupid people forget that.”
Well, my friends, I couldn’t wait for this game to end!
Mike and V. (Verity) didn’t have a conventional relationship. They were obsessed with one another and showed their love by playing a game called Crave which basically goes like this: Mike and V. go to a bar. V. gets hit on, Mike watches from a distance and eventually runs interference, then they have passionate sex.
When they break up, Mike’s obsession with V. grows to the point where he struggles to differentiate between reality and fantasy, leading to disastrous results. He writes a detailed manuscript of his relationship with V and his plan to win her back.
Unfortunately, I was never able to fully get lost in Mike’s narrative. I was drawn in the beginning, but I found things grew redundant and boring. Nothing really happens except for this: Mike is obsessed with V. They break up. Mike grows obsessed with getting V. back except V. has moved on. Mike whines, drinks, and hurts himself all the while moaning and crying over V. Repeat. Something bad happens. Repeat. Something really bad happens. Repeat. A trial, jail, and Repeat.
I love a good story about a sociopath, but this one fell short for me. While there were some interesting moments, this was another book in which the narrative had too much telling and not enough time spent allowing the reader to see what was happening. I was ready to give up on this, but kept on reading to see if anything would ever happen. I did find the end to be somewhat interesting, but overall I found this to be an underwhelming and frustrating read.
Well, my friends, I couldn’t wait for this game to end!
Mike and V. (Verity) didn’t have a conventional relationship. They were obsessed with one another and showed their love by playing a game called Crave which basically goes like this: Mike and V. go to a bar. V. gets hit on, Mike watches from a distance and eventually runs interference, then they have passionate sex.
When they break up, Mike’s obsession with V. grows to the point where he struggles to differentiate between reality and fantasy, leading to disastrous results. He writes a detailed manuscript of his relationship with V and his plan to win her back.
Unfortunately, I was never able to fully get lost in Mike’s narrative. I was drawn in the beginning, but I found things grew redundant and boring. Nothing really happens except for this: Mike is obsessed with V. They break up. Mike grows obsessed with getting V. back except V. has moved on. Mike whines, drinks, and hurts himself all the while moaning and crying over V. Repeat. Something bad happens. Repeat. Something really bad happens. Repeat. A trial, jail, and Repeat.
I love a good story about a sociopath, but this one fell short for me. While there were some interesting moments, this was another book in which the narrative had too much telling and not enough time spent allowing the reader to see what was happening. I was ready to give up on this, but kept on reading to see if anything would ever happen. I did find the end to be somewhat interesting, but overall I found this to be an underwhelming and frustrating read.
February 1, 2018
3.5 stars
Love, Obsession, jealousy, rage, sex, lies - the perfect storm for a disturbing "love" story gone bad...
Mike Hays had a rough start in life and wound up in foster care. Even he will admit that his permanent foster parents were loving and caring, but maybe not quite so loving and caring as, Verity Metcalf. Verity and Mike entered a romantic relationship where they enjoyed playing games of a sexual nature called "the Crave". Everything seemed fine. Mike loved Verity more than anything. He was willing to do anything to make her happy. He sculpted his body, he bought the perfect home, he wanted the perfect career. He was the "perfect" man for her. After all they have the perfect twisted and toxic relationship disguised as love.
Then their relationship ended. Mike was distraught. He was willing to do whatever it took to get Verity back. Verity cut him off completely and Mike believes he just needs to watch, he needs to be patient, she has always given him the "sign" in the past, she will give him the sign again, right? All he needs to do is hang in there and wait, watch and stalk.
"I must be cruel only to be kind / Thus bad begins and worse remains behind.”
One day, Mike receives an invitation to Verity's wedding. He agrees to go. This must be where the "sign" is going to be given...It must be.... Is she seriously going to marry this other man? This is certainly another "crave" where Mike must step in and save the day!
Obsession, manipulation, a mind unraveling all the set the stage for this book. There is a lot of psychological drama in this book and I times I wondered "is everything as it seems" and "what is the big reveal going to be" I also wondered how reliable Mike was, as he wasn’t the most stable character. That paired with the fact that I just had no empathy for Verity. Maybe because the reader doesn't get too much information on what is going on in her mind. What was her motivation. I would have given more stars had I known more about what made her tick.
This book did not have me on the edge of my seat, but it was compelling as I wanted to know what Mike would do next and to see if a "sign" would ever be given. This is more of a psychological character driven story focusing on obsession. My favorite part of the book was the court room scenes. Hearing all the testimony. I think this book will have people talking. This is a book where you know that something isn't right here. Is the main character completely wrong, is he being toyed with, is he mentally ill, is that all part of "the crave", etc.
Thank you to Farrar, Straus and Giroux and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
See more of my reviews at www.openbookpost.com
Love, Obsession, jealousy, rage, sex, lies - the perfect storm for a disturbing "love" story gone bad...
Mike Hays had a rough start in life and wound up in foster care. Even he will admit that his permanent foster parents were loving and caring, but maybe not quite so loving and caring as, Verity Metcalf. Verity and Mike entered a romantic relationship where they enjoyed playing games of a sexual nature called "the Crave". Everything seemed fine. Mike loved Verity more than anything. He was willing to do anything to make her happy. He sculpted his body, he bought the perfect home, he wanted the perfect career. He was the "perfect" man for her. After all they have the perfect twisted and toxic relationship disguised as love.
Then their relationship ended. Mike was distraught. He was willing to do whatever it took to get Verity back. Verity cut him off completely and Mike believes he just needs to watch, he needs to be patient, she has always given him the "sign" in the past, she will give him the sign again, right? All he needs to do is hang in there and wait, watch and stalk.
"I must be cruel only to be kind / Thus bad begins and worse remains behind.”
One day, Mike receives an invitation to Verity's wedding. He agrees to go. This must be where the "sign" is going to be given...It must be.... Is she seriously going to marry this other man? This is certainly another "crave" where Mike must step in and save the day!
Obsession, manipulation, a mind unraveling all the set the stage for this book. There is a lot of psychological drama in this book and I times I wondered "is everything as it seems" and "what is the big reveal going to be" I also wondered how reliable Mike was, as he wasn’t the most stable character. That paired with the fact that I just had no empathy for Verity. Maybe because the reader doesn't get too much information on what is going on in her mind. What was her motivation. I would have given more stars had I known more about what made her tick.
This book did not have me on the edge of my seat, but it was compelling as I wanted to know what Mike would do next and to see if a "sign" would ever be given. This is more of a psychological character driven story focusing on obsession. My favorite part of the book was the court room scenes. Hearing all the testimony. I think this book will have people talking. This is a book where you know that something isn't right here. Is the main character completely wrong, is he being toyed with, is he mentally ill, is that all part of "the crave", etc.
Thank you to Farrar, Straus and Giroux and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
See more of my reviews at www.openbookpost.com
June 17, 2018
⚠️Warning: You will be sleeping with the lights on after reading this book!
Welcome to the dark, obsessive mind of Michael Hayes.
Mike and Verity (known as V) had an intense relationship, to put it mildly! Their favorite past-time? Frequenting the local bar scene to “Crave”.
What is crave, you ask? Well, in order to avoid spoiling the party, I’ll just say it’s an adult game played that somehow proves their love and desire for one another.
When their relationship eventually fractures, one partner moves on. But the other is not so quick to give up their little game of “crave.”
One of the darkest, most up-ending thrillers I’ve ever read. Can you call it a love story? Personally, I would call it an insatiable, psychotic obsession.
Told from his POV, I was glued to the pages wondering just how far he would go to have and hold the love of his life. And what is V’s role in this on-going love affair? Very good question.
This thriller is not for everyone but I just loved it! From the moment I saw this book I knew I had to read it, knowing it would work its way to the top of my favorites list!
If you are into creepy...don’t miss this one!
A thrilling and chilling read with Susanne!
Thank you to NetGalley, Farrar, Straus and Giroux and Araminta Hall for an ARC to read in exchange for an honest review
Welcome to the dark, obsessive mind of Michael Hayes.
Mike and Verity (known as V) had an intense relationship, to put it mildly! Their favorite past-time? Frequenting the local bar scene to “Crave”.
What is crave, you ask? Well, in order to avoid spoiling the party, I’ll just say it’s an adult game played that somehow proves their love and desire for one another.
When their relationship eventually fractures, one partner moves on. But the other is not so quick to give up their little game of “crave.”
One of the darkest, most up-ending thrillers I’ve ever read. Can you call it a love story? Personally, I would call it an insatiable, psychotic obsession.
Told from his POV, I was glued to the pages wondering just how far he would go to have and hold the love of his life. And what is V’s role in this on-going love affair? Very good question.
This thriller is not for everyone but I just loved it! From the moment I saw this book I knew I had to read it, knowing it would work its way to the top of my favorites list!
If you are into creepy...don’t miss this one!
A thrilling and chilling read with Susanne!
Thank you to NetGalley, Farrar, Straus and Giroux and Araminta Hall for an ARC to read in exchange for an honest review
May 3, 2019
Araminta Hall's character driven psychological thriller is not a love story. It is a chilling, claustrophobic, dark and disturbing crawl below the surface into the no ordinary, distinctly uncomfortable, intense and twisted relationship between Mike Hayes and Verity 'V' Metcalf. Narrated primarily from the perspective of Mike, a man with a troubling and brutal childhood, the reader is taken into and privy to his interior life. These insights provide the groundwork to what happens later, culminating in the courtroom drama that is to follow. It all began when Mike and the bright and beautiful Verity met at university, for Mike he was discovering love, and he would do anything for V. She smoothes his socially awkward edges, he is willing to shape himself and his life to provide the perfect man and lifestyle for V, they are meant to be with each other.
Banker Mike and AI researcher V's long term relationship lasts eight years, in which Mike works in New York, where he makes an error of judgement that is to lead to the break up their relationship. However, is their relationship really over? Mike and V used to indulge in secret sex games that injected sky high levels of excitement into their lives, games in which V used to give him signs. This break up is surely the same game between the two of them? This is what Mike convinces himself of as his obsession and stalking grows, he really cannot bear to hear anything that contradicts this. Even though V has another man, Angus, a man she is getting married to. But wait, V has sent him a wedding invite, she loves him without a doubt. Just where will it all end?
Araminta Hall writes a story of sex, obsession, lies, and mental health issues that is definitely not the easiest of reads. However, it is skilfully and intelligently plotted and written to provide a thought provoking novel on how women are judged by society, and how their actions are perceived so differently from those of men. We have an emotionally damaged character in Mike whose obsessive delusions are flying beyond any concept of reality. This is not going to be a book for everyone, but it does provide insights into the psyche of a man and a relationship, the seeds of obsession, stalking and the possibilities of where it just might all end up. Many thanks to Random House Cornerstone for an ARC.
Banker Mike and AI researcher V's long term relationship lasts eight years, in which Mike works in New York, where he makes an error of judgement that is to lead to the break up their relationship. However, is their relationship really over? Mike and V used to indulge in secret sex games that injected sky high levels of excitement into their lives, games in which V used to give him signs. This break up is surely the same game between the two of them? This is what Mike convinces himself of as his obsession and stalking grows, he really cannot bear to hear anything that contradicts this. Even though V has another man, Angus, a man she is getting married to. But wait, V has sent him a wedding invite, she loves him without a doubt. Just where will it all end?
Araminta Hall writes a story of sex, obsession, lies, and mental health issues that is definitely not the easiest of reads. However, it is skilfully and intelligently plotted and written to provide a thought provoking novel on how women are judged by society, and how their actions are perceived so differently from those of men. We have an emotionally damaged character in Mike whose obsessive delusions are flying beyond any concept of reality. This is not going to be a book for everyone, but it does provide insights into the psyche of a man and a relationship, the seeds of obsession, stalking and the possibilities of where it just might all end up. Many thanks to Random House Cornerstone for an ARC.
April 30, 2018
This is a brilliantly done character study on par with Joe Goldberg from You, and Paul Strom from Best Day Ever. If you’re expecting a fast-paced, suspenseful thriller you’ll be disappointed, but if you’re looking for a highly developed, character driven story of a disturbed individual, pick this one up.
The author has taken “a mad spurt of anger at the continued injustices perpetrated against women in our so-called civilized society” (quote from the Acknowledgements) and developed it into a story that could really truly be any woman’s nightmare come to fruition. It also absolutely exemplifies the double standards in our world which are still in existence to this day.
This is yet another novel that I had to keep putting it down which is my gauge these days - if it’s making me uncomfortable I know the writing is strong, and this one pushed me to the brink of comfort. A truly in depth, disturbing look into the life of a highly traumatized individual.
Thank you to Netgalley, Araminta Hall and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The author has taken “a mad spurt of anger at the continued injustices perpetrated against women in our so-called civilized society” (quote from the Acknowledgements) and developed it into a story that could really truly be any woman’s nightmare come to fruition. It also absolutely exemplifies the double standards in our world which are still in existence to this day.
This is yet another novel that I had to keep putting it down which is my gauge these days - if it’s making me uncomfortable I know the writing is strong, and this one pushed me to the brink of comfort. A truly in depth, disturbing look into the life of a highly traumatized individual.
Thank you to Netgalley, Araminta Hall and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 27, 2018
my review is up over at LA review of books!
https://lareviewofbooks.org/article/l...
finished! review will run on the LARB site closer to pub date, but i think this book is going to do all right - if you have a badass book club, you might want to put it on the list.
***********************************************
i will be reviewing this for l.a. review of books and i am very excited to dive into it!!
come to my blog!
https://lareviewofbooks.org/article/l...
finished! review will run on the LARB site closer to pub date, but i think this book is going to do all right - if you have a badass book club, you might want to put it on the list.
***********************************************
i will be reviewing this for l.a. review of books and i am very excited to dive into it!!
come to my blog!
April 27, 2018
Wow! This is a very dark, twisted novel about obsession. Mike loves V and is crafting the perfect life for them. The fact that she’s getting married to someone else isn’t enough to alter his plans.
Like Dr. Frankenstein, V has created Mike, but just like the monster, he’s gone off the rails. The story works so well for being told solely from Mike’s perspective. No matter what V does or says, he twists it to fit his version of reality. It’s delightfully scary.
I had trouble believing several of V’s actions, however, including the wedding invitation. Given the way V and Mike separated, I just couldn’t see her wanting him there. I can’t believe she really thought they’d ever be friends. Maybe it just goes to show Mike wasn’t the only one seeing things through a distorted lens.
And then we get to the third part and there’s a wild twist. I really didn’t see it coming. It really pumped up the story a notch by adding a layer about how society views sexually active women.
I recommend this to anyone who likes dark psychological thrillers. It’s a quick, sick read.
My thanks to netgalley and Farrah, Strauss and Giroux for an advance copy of this novel.
Like Dr. Frankenstein, V has created Mike, but just like the monster, he’s gone off the rails. The story works so well for being told solely from Mike’s perspective. No matter what V does or says, he twists it to fit his version of reality. It’s delightfully scary.
I had trouble believing several of V’s actions, however, including the wedding invitation. Given the way V and Mike separated, I just couldn’t see her wanting him there. I can’t believe she really thought they’d ever be friends. Maybe it just goes to show Mike wasn’t the only one seeing things through a distorted lens.
And then we get to the third part and there’s a wild twist. I really didn’t see it coming. It really pumped up the story a notch by adding a layer about how society views sexually active women.
I recommend this to anyone who likes dark psychological thrillers. It’s a quick, sick read.
My thanks to netgalley and Farrah, Strauss and Giroux for an advance copy of this novel.
May 4, 2018
This is a well-written novel about an obsessed man who is incapable of correctly interpreting social cues and a woman whose niceness and sexuality are used against her.
Mike had a rough youth with an alcoholic mother who couldn’t take care of herself, let alone a child or a house. He often went without food and his mother’s boyfriends’ fists led to bruises he did his best to hide. At ten years old, he’s taken away by Social Services. After two years bouncing around in the system, he was taking in by a loving couple who saw his intelligence and potential and nurtured it.
It was at university that he met Verity. They played a game where she’d go up to the bar alone and wait for a man to hit on her and Mike would break it up, something that turned them both on. When V breaks things off with him, he feels certain this is just another part of a game. Same thing when she tells him she is going to get married. He doesn’t believe she really loves this other man. Mike thinks it’s part of the game. He is clearly delusional to everyone but himself.
Thanks to NetGalley and MCD / Farrar, Straus and Giroux for the opportunity to review this book, which RELEASES MAY 8, 2018.
For more reviews, please visit: http://www.theresaalan.net/blog
Mike had a rough youth with an alcoholic mother who couldn’t take care of herself, let alone a child or a house. He often went without food and his mother’s boyfriends’ fists led to bruises he did his best to hide. At ten years old, he’s taken away by Social Services. After two years bouncing around in the system, he was taking in by a loving couple who saw his intelligence and potential and nurtured it.
It was at university that he met Verity. They played a game where she’d go up to the bar alone and wait for a man to hit on her and Mike would break it up, something that turned them both on. When V breaks things off with him, he feels certain this is just another part of a game. Same thing when she tells him she is going to get married. He doesn’t believe she really loves this other man. Mike thinks it’s part of the game. He is clearly delusional to everyone but himself.
Thanks to NetGalley and MCD / Farrar, Straus and Giroux for the opportunity to review this book, which RELEASES MAY 8, 2018.
For more reviews, please visit: http://www.theresaalan.net/blog
April 22, 2018
"I crave you"
"We know what love is: the kindest and the cruelest emotion." Ain't that the truth my friends....
Our Kind of Cruelty by Araminta Hall is one heck of a ride. I felt like I was watching my favorite channel ID.... I'd Kill for you. This is a whole mess of lies, sex, obsession, stalking, jealously, greed, and rage. It can't get more juicy then that!
I can definitely see this being a top thriller for 2018. I think this would be a fabulous group read or with a book club.
Mike is mady in love with Verity. Verity also used to love Mike but she broke up with him after a bit of infidelity on Mike's part. Mike never truly moved on from Verity but on the other hand Verity announces that she is getting married. Mike seems to be fine with it and is thinking Verity is making Mike pay for his mistake. Mike believes it's all part of a sex game that they used to play together called "The Crave."
So.. I know what you're thinking what could possibly go wrong here? Oh... my friends love triangles never can last......
I am on the outlier coulee island again on this one.... with my average rating. Don't get me wrong this was entertaining BUT it could have been better. I was loosing interest in part 2 of the novel where we constantly kept hearing about Mike's obsession with Verity. I think we could have cut some of this out.
I feel like Araminta left her readers hanging a little bit with the end of the story. I think I would have enjoyed this more if we were able to see Verity's perspective. The entire novel was based off of Mike's character.
I am impressed with Araminta nonetheless and look forward to seeing what she comes out with next.
3.5 obsessive stars!
Thank you so much to Netgalley and Farrar, Straus and Giroux for the arc.
Publication date: 5/8/18
Published to GR: 4/22/18
"We know what love is: the kindest and the cruelest emotion." Ain't that the truth my friends....
Our Kind of Cruelty by Araminta Hall is one heck of a ride. I felt like I was watching my favorite channel ID.... I'd Kill for you. This is a whole mess of lies, sex, obsession, stalking, jealously, greed, and rage. It can't get more juicy then that!
I can definitely see this being a top thriller for 2018. I think this would be a fabulous group read or with a book club.
Mike is mady in love with Verity. Verity also used to love Mike but she broke up with him after a bit of infidelity on Mike's part. Mike never truly moved on from Verity but on the other hand Verity announces that she is getting married. Mike seems to be fine with it and is thinking Verity is making Mike pay for his mistake. Mike believes it's all part of a sex game that they used to play together called "The Crave."
So.. I know what you're thinking what could possibly go wrong here? Oh... my friends love triangles never can last......
I am on the outlier coulee island again on this one.... with my average rating. Don't get me wrong this was entertaining BUT it could have been better. I was loosing interest in part 2 of the novel where we constantly kept hearing about Mike's obsession with Verity. I think we could have cut some of this out.
I feel like Araminta left her readers hanging a little bit with the end of the story. I think I would have enjoyed this more if we were able to see Verity's perspective. The entire novel was based off of Mike's character.
I am impressed with Araminta nonetheless and look forward to seeing what she comes out with next.
3.5 obsessive stars!
Thank you so much to Netgalley and Farrar, Straus and Giroux for the arc.
Publication date: 5/8/18
Published to GR: 4/22/18
January 1, 2021
Oh I guess this is what everybody means when they talk about their love for Joe from You then??? Yeah I think I get it now!
Not the love for Joe no, but I did totally got charmed by Mike! He’s so pure and just utterly earnest how can I not??
Yeah yeah yeah I know, he’s a psychopath and all that, and who are you anyway, my mother?! I will jolly well like whoever I like ok? *huff*
Audiobook narrated by Nick Hendrix
Not the love for Joe no, but I did totally got charmed by Mike! He’s so pure and just utterly earnest how can I not??
Yeah yeah yeah I know, he’s a psychopath and all that, and who are you anyway, my mother?! I will jolly well like whoever I like ok? *huff*
Audiobook narrated by Nick Hendrix
June 3, 2018
4 Stars.
Creepy and Freaky and Crazy Intense.
“I Crave You.” It’s a game that Mike and Verity used to play while they were dating. They’d go to a bar, pretend that they weren’t together, and Mike would watch while another man hit on Verity and then he would pounce. Both would get off on it. Mike never dreamed that anything would come between them.
Until the day that V broke up with him and became engaged to someone else. Mike, knows it’s not real, however. It’s just the game she’s playing. A Crave. Their feelings for each other, their need for each other. No one else understands. But he knows. Even when it all goes wrong, he knows it’s all for the best, that she wants the same thing he does and that their bond will endure. Always.
Told from Mike’s perspective, “Our Kind of Cruelty” by Araminta Hall is a psychological suspense that hooked me with its intensity and disturbing nature. I was all in even though there were times when the hair on the back of my neck stood up and my skin was crawling - I simply couldn’t stop reading. This was captivating, compelling and obsessively good.
This was a sister read with Kaceey. Both of us really liked “Our Kind of Cruelty” and can’t wait to see what Ms. Hall comes out with next.
Thank you to NetGalley, Farrar, Straus and Giroux and Aramanita Hall for an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Published on NetGalley, Goodreads and Twitter on 6.3.18.
Creepy and Freaky and Crazy Intense.
“I Crave You.” It’s a game that Mike and Verity used to play while they were dating. They’d go to a bar, pretend that they weren’t together, and Mike would watch while another man hit on Verity and then he would pounce. Both would get off on it. Mike never dreamed that anything would come between them.
Until the day that V broke up with him and became engaged to someone else. Mike, knows it’s not real, however. It’s just the game she’s playing. A Crave. Their feelings for each other, their need for each other. No one else understands. But he knows. Even when it all goes wrong, he knows it’s all for the best, that she wants the same thing he does and that their bond will endure. Always.
Told from Mike’s perspective, “Our Kind of Cruelty” by Araminta Hall is a psychological suspense that hooked me with its intensity and disturbing nature. I was all in even though there were times when the hair on the back of my neck stood up and my skin was crawling - I simply couldn’t stop reading. This was captivating, compelling and obsessively good.
This was a sister read with Kaceey. Both of us really liked “Our Kind of Cruelty” and can’t wait to see what Ms. Hall comes out with next.
Thank you to NetGalley, Farrar, Straus and Giroux and Aramanita Hall for an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Published on NetGalley, Goodreads and Twitter on 6.3.18.
February 5, 2018
3.5 stars
annnndd I love reading about the crazies.
Mike knows that Verity still loves and wants him. So what if she is marrying some other guy? He knows the signs she sends to him and what she really means when she rejects him. He must do something grand to get her back. After all this all has to be another game of "Crave" that they play.
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Verity after all does invite him to her wedding.
My book buddy is probably going to say I readed this one sorta wrong BUT I did like it. The front part of the book could do with less talky talky in Mike's crazy ass life but still...it does make sense after the second part of the book starts. (That second part was real crazy time good.)
Are you waiting for me to actually say what happens? You are outta luck...this is one of those that you don't want to get spoiled on. Just jump right in if you like the crazy train characters that make you kinda icky feeling and want to find your 'Eagle.'
Booksource: Netgalley in exchange for review.
annnndd I love reading about the crazies.
Mike knows that Verity still loves and wants him. So what if she is marrying some other guy? He knows the signs she sends to him and what she really means when she rejects him. He must do something grand to get her back. After all this all has to be another game of "Crave" that they play.
[image error]
Verity after all does invite him to her wedding.
My book buddy is probably going to say I readed this one sorta wrong BUT I did like it. The front part of the book could do with less talky talky in Mike's crazy ass life but still...it does make sense after the second part of the book starts. (That second part was real crazy time good.)
Are you waiting for me to actually say what happens? You are outta luck...this is one of those that you don't want to get spoiled on. Just jump right in if you like the crazy train characters that make you kinda icky feeling and want to find your 'Eagle.'
Booksource: Netgalley in exchange for review.
February 3, 2018
So once again I spent a few days living inside the mind of the deranged. I’m beginning to wonder what that says about me. Clearly, I’m not a clinical psychologist but my armchair diagnosis of the main character is narcissism combined with obsessive-compulsive disorder. My understanding of narcissism is that it is not being in love with oneself but rather the need to have love and admiration reflected back by another.
V and Mikey meet at college and become entangled in an eight-year affair that is based upon sex and a cruel game they call Crave. V moves on and Mikey can’t. Mikey has endured a terrible childhood which accounts for his actions throughout the novel. Friendless and lonely, he exhibits classic symptoms of sociopathic behavior in that he is unable to empathize, lies to himself in order to feel comfortable, has no ability to understand social cues and mimics the social behavior of others. I could go on and on. V had been able to explain to Mikey how to get along in the world and without her Mikey is lost. Needless to say, Mikey doggedly pursues V and the question becomes: are they still playing Crave? This book reminded me, in some ways, of You by Caroline Kepnes. It’s written with the same chilliness that effectively allows the reader into Mikey’s mind. Given the commercial success of You, I believe that Our Kind of Cruelty will enjoy a similar readership.
V and Mikey meet at college and become entangled in an eight-year affair that is based upon sex and a cruel game they call Crave. V moves on and Mikey can’t. Mikey has endured a terrible childhood which accounts for his actions throughout the novel. Friendless and lonely, he exhibits classic symptoms of sociopathic behavior in that he is unable to empathize, lies to himself in order to feel comfortable, has no ability to understand social cues and mimics the social behavior of others. I could go on and on. V had been able to explain to Mikey how to get along in the world and without her Mikey is lost. Needless to say, Mikey doggedly pursues V and the question becomes: are they still playing Crave? This book reminded me, in some ways, of You by Caroline Kepnes. It’s written with the same chilliness that effectively allows the reader into Mikey’s mind. Given the commercial success of You, I believe that Our Kind of Cruelty will enjoy a similar readership.
May 8, 2018
Find all of my reviews at: http://52bookminimum.blogspot.com/
RELEASE DATE 5/8/18! If you enjoy reading about truly awful humans, you don't want to miss out on meeting Mike.
4.5 Stars
“I must be cruel only to be kind / Thus bad begins and worse remains behind.”
When I saw my friend Michelle’s review comparing this to one of my favorites, I went and requested it immediately. I spent the next 24 hours waiting with bated breath to see if I would be approved an early copy while simultaneously trying to lower my expectations. I mean, really, there can only be one You (well, actually there are two and supposedly another in the works and also a television program, but you know what I mean). Ever since Kepnes released her little sleeper and everyone’s favorite psycho book boyfriend into the world others have been trying to follow in her twisted footsteps – and I keep reading them. At this point I figured the comparison is similar to everything being “the next Gone Girl” and once I received my copy I was prepared for disappointment and would deal with Michelle accordingly if I hated it . . . .
Ha! I keeeeed. Don’t be scared, Michelle.
So what was the end result?????
This really is maybe the next You - with one difference: you won’t fall in love with Mike and it’s crystal clear throughout the story that he won’t be getting a happily-ever-after. The story here is of Mike and Verity. Theirs is a classic love story – they met at university and were together for seven years while each became quite the success in their respective industry. Unfortunately Mike engaged in an indiscretion of sorts while living abroad for work. That was when Verity stopped returning his calls and e-mails. Mike is not deterred, however, and knows he can win Verity back once he returns to London. He has the job, the house, the money – all that’s missing is the girl. And so what if she’s engaged to someone else and has invited Mike to the wedding. Mike knows the whole thing is a ruse – a game they play. After all, how can two people who Crave each other so much ever stand to be apart?
Mad props to Araminta Hall for going balls to the wall when it came to Mike. There was not one sentence where I didn’t believe I was in the mind of an absolute nutter. Again, I didn’t “love” Mike like I loved Joe, but boy did I appreciate his crazy effing perspective on things . . . .
Oh, one other note. PLEEEEEEEEAAAAAAASE keep the cover with the eagle on it and ditch that other ugly AF one : )
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you, NetGalley!
RELEASE DATE 5/8/18! If you enjoy reading about truly awful humans, you don't want to miss out on meeting Mike.
4.5 Stars
“I must be cruel only to be kind / Thus bad begins and worse remains behind.”
When I saw my friend Michelle’s review comparing this to one of my favorites, I went and requested it immediately. I spent the next 24 hours waiting with bated breath to see if I would be approved an early copy while simultaneously trying to lower my expectations. I mean, really, there can only be one You (well, actually there are two and supposedly another in the works and also a television program, but you know what I mean). Ever since Kepnes released her little sleeper and everyone’s favorite psycho book boyfriend into the world others have been trying to follow in her twisted footsteps – and I keep reading them. At this point I figured the comparison is similar to everything being “the next Gone Girl” and once I received my copy I was prepared for disappointment and would deal with Michelle accordingly if I hated it . . . .
Ha! I keeeeed. Don’t be scared, Michelle.
So what was the end result?????
This really is maybe the next You - with one difference: you won’t fall in love with Mike and it’s crystal clear throughout the story that he won’t be getting a happily-ever-after. The story here is of Mike and Verity. Theirs is a classic love story – they met at university and were together for seven years while each became quite the success in their respective industry. Unfortunately Mike engaged in an indiscretion of sorts while living abroad for work. That was when Verity stopped returning his calls and e-mails. Mike is not deterred, however, and knows he can win Verity back once he returns to London. He has the job, the house, the money – all that’s missing is the girl. And so what if she’s engaged to someone else and has invited Mike to the wedding. Mike knows the whole thing is a ruse – a game they play. After all, how can two people who Crave each other so much ever stand to be apart?
Mad props to Araminta Hall for going balls to the wall when it came to Mike. There was not one sentence where I didn’t believe I was in the mind of an absolute nutter. Again, I didn’t “love” Mike like I loved Joe, but boy did I appreciate his crazy effing perspective on things . . . .
Oh, one other note. PLEEEEEEEEAAAAAAASE keep the cover with the eagle on it and ditch that other ugly AF one : )
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you, NetGalley!
May 24, 2018
"She doesn't know how easy it is to leave scars, how sometimes just a tiny brown oval will remain, but whenever you look at it you know why it's there."
And this one may scar you as well. It's not a dance for everyone. Heavy on the sex, control, obsession, cruelty, and no rock 'n roll.
Mike Hayes left an unspeakable, demented childhood in his rearview mirror. But like all things reflective, it doesn't quite go far enough away. Araminta Hall does a fine job in allowing her readers to walk through the darkened hallows of Mike's off-centered mind. We view things that don't quite connect and we shudder at the tangles of graffiti written in there in such deep disarray. Mike has plenty of demons lurking in the shadows and we lean in closely to hear his shifting tale as the chapters begin.
"The problem was that my head felt occupied by V, as if she were a burrowing animal who had taken up residence in my skull."
Mike, now an up-and-coming young executive, has taken a position in New York to advance his career. He and Verity have tried to keep their relationship, sordid games and all, still oscillating from a long distance stance. When Mike confesses to Verity that he was unfaithful while in New York, she cuts him off. Upon arriving once again in London, Mike finds out that Verity is engaged and planning her wedding. Our guy doesn't like to be sidelined when it comes to Verity. The new round of games begins.....
Our Kind of Cruelty will certainly not be for every reader's taste. In fact, it may be unpalatable for some. But what is at the core here is the writing talent behind Araminta Hall. She does crazy with a slow, smooth hand seeping ever so gently into the fabric of every day life. You don't quite see it coming until the dark saturation totally engulfs you with its wickedness. That's why plot points are guarded here until the high frenzy of its ending. Hall provides quite the abiding vehicle in Our Kind of Cruelty to visit obsession up close and personal. My my, what will her next offering touch upon in the scheme of off-putting humanity?
And this one may scar you as well. It's not a dance for everyone. Heavy on the sex, control, obsession, cruelty, and no rock 'n roll.
Mike Hayes left an unspeakable, demented childhood in his rearview mirror. But like all things reflective, it doesn't quite go far enough away. Araminta Hall does a fine job in allowing her readers to walk through the darkened hallows of Mike's off-centered mind. We view things that don't quite connect and we shudder at the tangles of graffiti written in there in such deep disarray. Mike has plenty of demons lurking in the shadows and we lean in closely to hear his shifting tale as the chapters begin.
"The problem was that my head felt occupied by V, as if she were a burrowing animal who had taken up residence in my skull."
Mike, now an up-and-coming young executive, has taken a position in New York to advance his career. He and Verity have tried to keep their relationship, sordid games and all, still oscillating from a long distance stance. When Mike confesses to Verity that he was unfaithful while in New York, she cuts him off. Upon arriving once again in London, Mike finds out that Verity is engaged and planning her wedding. Our guy doesn't like to be sidelined when it comes to Verity. The new round of games begins.....
Our Kind of Cruelty will certainly not be for every reader's taste. In fact, it may be unpalatable for some. But what is at the core here is the writing talent behind Araminta Hall. She does crazy with a slow, smooth hand seeping ever so gently into the fabric of every day life. You don't quite see it coming until the dark saturation totally engulfs you with its wickedness. That's why plot points are guarded here until the high frenzy of its ending. Hall provides quite the abiding vehicle in Our Kind of Cruelty to visit obsession up close and personal. My my, what will her next offering touch upon in the scheme of off-putting humanity?
May 9, 2018
This is an excellent psychological thriller. It has been a while since a read a book that left me reeling.
Mike and Verity met in college and were together for eight years. A few months after the relationship ended Mike received an invitation to Verity's wedding. He had been living and working in New York and had recently moved back to London where V, short for Verity, also lives.
Mike is settling back in London and getting the house ready for V's return because he knows they're meant for each other. This is as much as I want to say about the story.
The novel is narrated from Mike's point of view and the author did an excellent job with the writing and his characterization. I was glued to this dark story from the start. The last pages were the best where the author revealed a poignant social message. At the end, you are going to end up hating or loving this book.
I loved it and recommend it to readers of thrillers and contemporary fiction.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via Netgalley
Mike and Verity met in college and were together for eight years. A few months after the relationship ended Mike received an invitation to Verity's wedding. He had been living and working in New York and had recently moved back to London where V, short for Verity, also lives.
Mike is settling back in London and getting the house ready for V's return because he knows they're meant for each other. This is as much as I want to say about the story.
The novel is narrated from Mike's point of view and the author did an excellent job with the writing and his characterization. I was glued to this dark story from the start. The last pages were the best where the author revealed a poignant social message. At the end, you are going to end up hating or loving this book.
I loved it and recommend it to readers of thrillers and contemporary fiction.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via Netgalley
July 5, 2018
This is a tough book to rate and review. I really did not care for the first two parts of the book. I thought at first maybe it was the subject matter that was too disturbing which made for uncomfortable reading, but after thinking about this for the past couple of days I honestly think I had a problem with the slow pace. I just did not feel fully engaged in the story until the third and final part of the book. That's when the book started to pick up for me and I really couldn't wait to find out how the author would wrap everything up.
I'm glad the author provided some insight to why she wrote the book and I do appreciate her attempt at shining a light on important topics. (And yes, I am being vague for a reason in order to avoid giving away any spoilers.) I might not have completely loved the execution of this book but I am still glad I read it. I read lots of books in this genre and it still felt like something new and different.
I won a free copy of this book in a giveaway but was under no obligation to post a review. All views expressed are my honest opinion.
I'm glad the author provided some insight to why she wrote the book and I do appreciate her attempt at shining a light on important topics. (And yes, I am being vague for a reason in order to avoid giving away any spoilers.) I might not have completely loved the execution of this book but I am still glad I read it. I read lots of books in this genre and it still felt like something new and different.
I won a free copy of this book in a giveaway but was under no obligation to post a review. All views expressed are my honest opinion.
June 13, 2018
Audiobook... read by Nick Hendrix...and Eleanor Matsuura
“I crave you”......( ha)....
Definition of *crave*:
.....desire, want, wish for, hunger for, thirst for, lust after, beg for ....
BUT NOT.... “Love”....
I enjoyed this twisty Audiobook. The Audio-narrators - especially the male voice was awesome...
This UN—LOVE story was a tripy-twisty-guilty-pleasure-ride.
Nothing too graphic - no slaughtered animals or children...
Pure adult fun & games!
3.5-3.7 rating - enjoyed it!
“I crave you”......( ha)....
Definition of *crave*:
.....desire, want, wish for, hunger for, thirst for, lust after, beg for ....
BUT NOT.... “Love”....
I enjoyed this twisty Audiobook. The Audio-narrators - especially the male voice was awesome...
This UN—LOVE story was a tripy-twisty-guilty-pleasure-ride.
Nothing too graphic - no slaughtered animals or children...
Pure adult fun & games!
3.5-3.7 rating - enjoyed it!
April 27, 2024
**3.5-stars rounded up**
Our Kind of Cruelty was a fun read for me, but I recognize it won't be for everyone.
The unique format, which I can see being off-putting to some, definitely added to the experience for me. I found it to be distinctive and disturbing. To adjectives I never mind finding in my Thrillers.
Mike Hayes, the narrator, is unhinged and you get a front row seat to his obsession.
Verity, Mike's literal obsession, is a young lady I struggled throughout the book to understand.
Mike and V were involved in a long-term relationship which began while they were in college and eventually ended. This story follows that break-up and relives pieces of it through the mind of Mike.
How much of his thoughts being revealed to the readers are reality and how much are fantasy? Therein lies the mindf*ckery.
The author did a phenomenal job of keeping you guessing.
Is Mike as crazy as he seems?
Is he creating a fantasy or is she feeding into his behaviors?
I absolutely loved the format of this book and how the author never let Mike slip from character. You are full force in this 'love story' from start to finish, gaining insight into his infatuation with Verity.
The culmination of the tale takes place in a courtroom where we see side characters, as well as both Verity and Mike, being questioned by attorneys regarding the exact nature and events of their relationship. I will admit even I was questioning Verity and her honesty at that point.
This was humorous to me, an extension of how women can be blamed or treated with suspicion when it comes to a man's behaviors in regards to her.
Questioning the victim, blaming the victim, shaming the victim, these are all prevalent occurrences in our society, and apparently, I myself was guilty of it in this case.
I didn't trust V. Even though I was witness to Mike's mental fixation with her. I questioned what she was doing to fuel that fire. I continually questioned her choices: why didn't she tell someone, her husband, the police? Why did she continue to correspond with him?
This was an incredibly intricate, mind-shaking story that gave me chills on the regular. I applaud the author for this effort.
It is a truly a distinct book for the thriller genre. I would highly recommend it. I hope my thoughts on this make some sort of sense. Honestly, I am still a bit boggled by this one.
Thank you so much to the publisher, Farrar, Straus & Giroux, for providing me with the opportunity to read this book early and to provide my opinion. I cannot wait to see what other readers take from this one!
Our Kind of Cruelty was a fun read for me, but I recognize it won't be for everyone.
The unique format, which I can see being off-putting to some, definitely added to the experience for me. I found it to be distinctive and disturbing. To adjectives I never mind finding in my Thrillers.
Mike Hayes, the narrator, is unhinged and you get a front row seat to his obsession.
Verity, Mike's literal obsession, is a young lady I struggled throughout the book to understand.
Mike and V were involved in a long-term relationship which began while they were in college and eventually ended. This story follows that break-up and relives pieces of it through the mind of Mike.
How much of his thoughts being revealed to the readers are reality and how much are fantasy? Therein lies the mindf*ckery.
The author did a phenomenal job of keeping you guessing.
Is Mike as crazy as he seems?
Is he creating a fantasy or is she feeding into his behaviors?
I absolutely loved the format of this book and how the author never let Mike slip from character. You are full force in this 'love story' from start to finish, gaining insight into his infatuation with Verity.
The culmination of the tale takes place in a courtroom where we see side characters, as well as both Verity and Mike, being questioned by attorneys regarding the exact nature and events of their relationship. I will admit even I was questioning Verity and her honesty at that point.
This was humorous to me, an extension of how women can be blamed or treated with suspicion when it comes to a man's behaviors in regards to her.
Questioning the victim, blaming the victim, shaming the victim, these are all prevalent occurrences in our society, and apparently, I myself was guilty of it in this case.
I didn't trust V. Even though I was witness to Mike's mental fixation with her. I questioned what she was doing to fuel that fire. I continually questioned her choices: why didn't she tell someone, her husband, the police? Why did she continue to correspond with him?
This was an incredibly intricate, mind-shaking story that gave me chills on the regular. I applaud the author for this effort.
It is a truly a distinct book for the thriller genre. I would highly recommend it. I hope my thoughts on this make some sort of sense. Honestly, I am still a bit boggled by this one.
Thank you so much to the publisher, Farrar, Straus & Giroux, for providing me with the opportunity to read this book early and to provide my opinion. I cannot wait to see what other readers take from this one!
January 30, 2019
"...sometimes two people need each other so much it is worth sacrificing others to make sure they end up together."
Holyyyyyyy crapolaaaaaa I fucking loved this book!
This story is a masterful, slow-burning decent into the mind of a delusional and obsessed man...and it's flipping fantastical!!!!
Brilliant writing with flawless development of an utterly unreliable narrator. I've never felt so disquieted while reading a book.
Araminta Hall just became an instant one-click for me.
Holyyyyyyy crapolaaaaaa I fucking loved this book!
This story is a masterful, slow-burning decent into the mind of a delusional and obsessed man...and it's flipping fantastical!!!!
Brilliant writing with flawless development of an utterly unreliable narrator. I've never felt so disquieted while reading a book.
Araminta Hall just became an instant one-click for me.
July 10, 2018
Sometimes I like to read about total nut-jobs. It makes me feel slightly more sane. Mike's the kinda guy who looks through newspapers to find hidden messages.
Jeez, dude, I just asked where you want to go eat.
So, when he gets an invitation to his ex-girlfriend's wedding, he knows she is crying out for his help to stop it. It's part of a game they used to play, and she has simply taken it to the next level.
Sometimes you really don't need to kick it up a notch. Just leave it be, man. Leave it be.
This book is all about being inside of Psycho-Mike's head. (I gave him that nickname. Clever, huh?)
And, inside his head is very intense and delusional. So, it makes you wonder what the hell he's going to do next, which is fun. The only problem I had was that he didn't act out enough on his psychosis. If I'm going to read about a psycho, I want him to go full-out, not just think psycho-ie things, but DO them. After all, isn't that the most important part of being a psycho? *Sigh* Maybe it's just me. Plus, I really wanted a very specific thing to happen at the end and it didn't. Why don't authors automatically know what I want and do it?
Anyway. The other part of this story, that was really interesting, was the feminist angle. Nobody is talking about that too much, but the author mentioned that this was what sparked her to write the book in the first place. Because nobody wants to spoil, and I won't either, we aren't telling you about a strong feminist message. So, without spoiling, I will tell you a major thing: there is a strong feminist message.
You're welcome.
Overall, totally worth the read.
Jeez, dude, I just asked where you want to go eat.
So, when he gets an invitation to his ex-girlfriend's wedding, he knows she is crying out for his help to stop it. It's part of a game they used to play, and she has simply taken it to the next level.
Sometimes you really don't need to kick it up a notch. Just leave it be, man. Leave it be.
This book is all about being inside of Psycho-Mike's head. (I gave him that nickname. Clever, huh?)
And, inside his head is very intense and delusional. So, it makes you wonder what the hell he's going to do next, which is fun. The only problem I had was that he didn't act out enough on his psychosis. If I'm going to read about a psycho, I want him to go full-out, not just think psycho-ie things, but DO them. After all, isn't that the most important part of being a psycho? *Sigh* Maybe it's just me. Plus, I really wanted a very specific thing to happen at the end and it didn't. Why don't authors automatically know what I want and do it?
Anyway. The other part of this story, that was really interesting, was the feminist angle. Nobody is talking about that too much, but the author mentioned that this was what sparked her to write the book in the first place. Because nobody wants to spoil, and I won't either, we aren't telling you about a strong feminist message. So, without spoiling, I will tell you a major thing: there is a strong feminist message.
You're welcome.
Overall, totally worth the read.
September 23, 2018
4.5 Creepy Star for Our Kind of Cruelty by Araminta Hall. The novel tells the story of Mike and Verity, also known as just “V.” The couple have been dating since they met at university and play a sex game that seems harmless enough, though cruel, and they do discuss more harmful ways of playing. Verity comes from a good family, she is a beautiful and intelligent woman who works in Artificial Intelligence. Mike had a horrid childhood and was adopted by a lovely couple who are supportive and love Mike. Like many children that have experienced neglect and abuse, Mike has PTSD. He is brilliant and successful in the world of finance and has made his own wealth. He is obsessed with making enough money to retire by age forty-five and moves to New York for two years to make a killing. When he comes back, his relationship with Verity has changed. Thats when the already creepy Mike becomes even scarier than was foreshadowed.
Others have compared the book to Best Day Ever by Kaira Rouda and You by Caroline Kepnes and I see the similarities. The novel is told only from Mike’s point of view. But the reader can still sense the effect that his bizarre and scary behavior has on Verity. Hall does a wonderful job of allowing us to experience Verity’s fear and emotions without any narration from her.
The book is a psychological thriller but it’s not fast paced; Mike’s narration creates a slow burn that builds to a suspenseful courtroom drama. The book seems to me to be an indictment on the patriarchal attitudes about women and sex. Verity and Mike engage in the same sex game, but Verity’s actions are viewed as abhorrent. And as the narrative typically goes, Verity must have had some “spell” over Mike to “make him” commit a crime. That and his horrid childhood lead to the notion that Mike is incapable of being fully responsible for his reprehensible acts. Fans who love a creepy “stalky” novel will love Our Kind of Cruelty.
Thank you to NetGalley, Farrar, Straus and Giroux, and Ms. Hall for the ARC of this fabulous book.
Others have compared the book to Best Day Ever by Kaira Rouda and You by Caroline Kepnes and I see the similarities. The novel is told only from Mike’s point of view. But the reader can still sense the effect that his bizarre and scary behavior has on Verity. Hall does a wonderful job of allowing us to experience Verity’s fear and emotions without any narration from her.
The book is a psychological thriller but it’s not fast paced; Mike’s narration creates a slow burn that builds to a suspenseful courtroom drama. The book seems to me to be an indictment on the patriarchal attitudes about women and sex. Verity and Mike engage in the same sex game, but Verity’s actions are viewed as abhorrent. And as the narrative typically goes, Verity must have had some “spell” over Mike to “make him” commit a crime. That and his horrid childhood lead to the notion that Mike is incapable of being fully responsible for his reprehensible acts. Fans who love a creepy “stalky” novel will love Our Kind of Cruelty.
Thank you to NetGalley, Farrar, Straus and Giroux, and Ms. Hall for the ARC of this fabulous book.
March 6, 2018
I don't know if this will be for everyone, (main narrative is not very likeable) but I loved the crazy delusion!
Mike loves Verity. Verity used to love Mike, but she broke up with him after an indiscretion that Mike admits to. Mike apologizes and knows that all will be forgiven, as love like theirs is one in a million.
When Verity announces she is to be married, Mike understands. Verity is just making him pay for his slip up. It's all part of the game they've played throughout their relationship, called 'the Crave'.
So what could possibly go wrong here?
Is Verity punishing Mike, or has she moved on? Is Mike delusional, or just a pawn in her games?
This is a cleverly crafted web of mystery and suspense that kept me riveted! I think I would have liked a better ending, one with a bit more retribution to it, but all in all this was one entertaining read!
ARC provided by NetGalley
Mike loves Verity. Verity used to love Mike, but she broke up with him after an indiscretion that Mike admits to. Mike apologizes and knows that all will be forgiven, as love like theirs is one in a million.
When Verity announces she is to be married, Mike understands. Verity is just making him pay for his slip up. It's all part of the game they've played throughout their relationship, called 'the Crave'.
So what could possibly go wrong here?
Is Verity punishing Mike, or has she moved on? Is Mike delusional, or just a pawn in her games?
This is a cleverly crafted web of mystery and suspense that kept me riveted! I think I would have liked a better ending, one with a bit more retribution to it, but all in all this was one entertaining read!
ARC provided by NetGalley
March 14, 2018
Our Kind of Cruelty
just didn't work out for me. Maybe I've been reading too many of the same regurgitated stories lately, but I am sorry to say that this will be an unpopular review.
Our Kind of Cruelty takes place in London and parts of New York, where Mike Hayes tells us about his love for Verity Metcalf. Verity and Mike were young loves—immature and impulsive, the dynamic duo played this controversial made-up game called Crave. Without giving too much away, this game was a manipulative and cruel game that they played on unsuspecting men. Flash-forward, Mike and Verity are at a standstill. Mike is offered the dream job he's always wanted in New York, while Verity has her sights set on staying in London and working with computers. The two try and work on their relationship long-distance, but betrayal and lies amount to be too much. Now Verity is engaged to Angus and has found the love she's always wanted. Mike is devastated, angry, and ready to bring Verity back into his life. Mike is willing to stop at nothing to prove his love for Verity.
As mentioned before, this book was just not for me. I have seen lots of reviews lately for Our Kind of Cruelty and they are all over the place, which is good! It means that this story will invoke many different reactions and promote conversations. I felt like the arc of this story was too heavily focused on Mike and his inner thoughts, rather than what was happening around him. Sometimes that can work, other times it can fall flat. It's difficult when it comes to psychological thrillers because you are really caught up in the psyche of the narrator, but it also limits you on what is being presented in the story. I felt that the narration style in this story was very limiting. My friend Chelsea, who also reviewed this story, called it an inner monologue and she is so spot-on with that critique. I felt like Mike was reading from an editorial diary, rather than promoting a storyline. It just became too repetitive and uninspired for me.
At around 80% of the novel, I was very (happily) surprised at how the story provided conversational topics so intelligently. One thing that really provoked me (in a good way) was the treatment of society's viewpoints on the sexuality of women. At first, I was so pissed off with the narrative on this subject, but that's what the story was supposed to do. I loved that we are given a chance to actually feel emotion based on real life topics that are currently a commonplace discussion piece.
Final thoughts: Not for me, but maybe for you. Read a couple more reviews by some of your friends and then make your decision. Whether you love it, like it, or ambivalent towards it, Our Kind of Cruelty is a quick read that will get you thinking.
Thanks Netgalley for my advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
Our Kind of Cruelty takes place in London and parts of New York, where Mike Hayes tells us about his love for Verity Metcalf. Verity and Mike were young loves—immature and impulsive, the dynamic duo played this controversial made-up game called Crave. Without giving too much away, this game was a manipulative and cruel game that they played on unsuspecting men. Flash-forward, Mike and Verity are at a standstill. Mike is offered the dream job he's always wanted in New York, while Verity has her sights set on staying in London and working with computers. The two try and work on their relationship long-distance, but betrayal and lies amount to be too much. Now Verity is engaged to Angus and has found the love she's always wanted. Mike is devastated, angry, and ready to bring Verity back into his life. Mike is willing to stop at nothing to prove his love for Verity.
As mentioned before, this book was just not for me. I have seen lots of reviews lately for Our Kind of Cruelty and they are all over the place, which is good! It means that this story will invoke many different reactions and promote conversations. I felt like the arc of this story was too heavily focused on Mike and his inner thoughts, rather than what was happening around him. Sometimes that can work, other times it can fall flat. It's difficult when it comes to psychological thrillers because you are really caught up in the psyche of the narrator, but it also limits you on what is being presented in the story. I felt that the narration style in this story was very limiting. My friend Chelsea, who also reviewed this story, called it an inner monologue and she is so spot-on with that critique. I felt like Mike was reading from an editorial diary, rather than promoting a storyline. It just became too repetitive and uninspired for me.
At around 80% of the novel, I was very (happily) surprised at how the story provided conversational topics so intelligently. One thing that really provoked me (in a good way) was the treatment of society's viewpoints on the sexuality of women. At first, I was so pissed off with the narrative on this subject, but that's what the story was supposed to do. I loved that we are given a chance to actually feel emotion based on real life topics that are currently a commonplace discussion piece.
Final thoughts: Not for me, but maybe for you. Read a couple more reviews by some of your friends and then make your decision. Whether you love it, like it, or ambivalent towards it, Our Kind of Cruelty is a quick read that will get you thinking.
Thanks Netgalley for my advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 16, 2018
His name is Mike. Her name is Verity. What is the real truth here? For one thing, he will never stop loving her. Nevermind that she is engaged to be married. Forget the fact that she has made it plain over and over again that things between her and Mike are over. With each rejection, Mike becomes more obsessed with her, more deluded; he rationalizes every word, every look to mean what he WANTS it to mean. He craves Verity. And he knows that she craves him, as she always has.
April 19, 2018
Our Kind of Cruelty by Araminta Hall is a novel of psychological suspense that is much in the same category of YOU by Caroline Kepnes. This is the type of book that let’s readers see up close just why restraining orders were invented and give all the single ladies a reason to think twice about their dates.
The story takes readers into the mind of Mike Hayes. Mike has come from a horrible background a childhood that when hearing about would bring tears to any compassionate person’s eyes. He’s now in a successful job and in love with Verity Metcalf and planning their life together.
The problem with Mike’s love story is that Verity broke off the relationship with Mike after a few years together. Mike had cheated on Verity but this is just her excuse to end things. Mike however thinks back to the games they played while together and hasn’t quite gotten the memo that Verity has moved on.
Our Kind of Cruelty is yet again the type of book that has one thinking I need to scrub my brain after spending a few hours in the main character’s head. Mike is obviously not what one would classify as “normal” with his thoughts but yet he passes as such to many around him. It’s very hard not to become engaged just waiting for the train wreck to happen as you know it’s coming.
Comparing this one to YOU however is a bit of a double edged sword. The writing is good and the story is compelling but it lacked that extra spark that had YOU standing out from the crowd. Mike did not have the sarcastic humor Joe possessed and he was not as extreme in his motions. There was also a deeper message of the dangers of social media involved in YOU that I didn’t find with this one either.
However, without nit picking the details this one is still a highly relevant read to show just how far some actually do go with their obsessions. Stalkers are a very real thing and unfortunately some women actually do live in fear of men who claim to love them dearly. That my friends is Mike’s true love story that is being told and the author did a very good job doing so.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
The story takes readers into the mind of Mike Hayes. Mike has come from a horrible background a childhood that when hearing about would bring tears to any compassionate person’s eyes. He’s now in a successful job and in love with Verity Metcalf and planning their life together.
The problem with Mike’s love story is that Verity broke off the relationship with Mike after a few years together. Mike had cheated on Verity but this is just her excuse to end things. Mike however thinks back to the games they played while together and hasn’t quite gotten the memo that Verity has moved on.
Our Kind of Cruelty is yet again the type of book that has one thinking I need to scrub my brain after spending a few hours in the main character’s head. Mike is obviously not what one would classify as “normal” with his thoughts but yet he passes as such to many around him. It’s very hard not to become engaged just waiting for the train wreck to happen as you know it’s coming.
Comparing this one to YOU however is a bit of a double edged sword. The writing is good and the story is compelling but it lacked that extra spark that had YOU standing out from the crowd. Mike did not have the sarcastic humor Joe possessed and he was not as extreme in his motions. There was also a deeper message of the dangers of social media involved in YOU that I didn’t find with this one either.
However, without nit picking the details this one is still a highly relevant read to show just how far some actually do go with their obsessions. Stalkers are a very real thing and unfortunately some women actually do live in fear of men who claim to love them dearly. That my friends is Mike’s true love story that is being told and the author did a very good job doing so.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
October 18, 2017
Absolutely compelling from first word to last. Read in one sitting I feel like I didn't even blink although obviously I must have done. Clever. So so so clever. I can't even begin to unravel the layers of clever in Our Kind Of Cruelty. Putting the actual psychology FIRMLY back into the psychological thriller Araminta Hall has written a barnstormer of a novel that fully captured my imagination.
This is a love story. No it really is. But what kind of a love story is it? That may be the unanswerable question...
Mike and Verity are a couple you will never forget. In fact I can't tell you anything much about how the plot runs because it is hard to do that without giving away the genius of this novel - it is a furiously intriguing read, a cleverly plotted one, it has many many levels and is socially relevant in a way that is not immediately obvious. It is not until the end that you realise what the author has done and how she has done it, your brain will catch up with you and you'll think back over the entire story and look at it with thoughtful eyes.
I'm not talking about a twist in the tale - I'm talking about the whole twist BEING the tale, which is what I mean about putting the psychology firmly back into psychological thrillers.
For the rest you'll just have to read to find out. The authors afterword gives perspective and I'd recommend reading that too if you don't normally. This is one I'll be thinking about for a while. Bound to be a huge hit and a "water cooler" moment of 2018.
Highly Recommended.
This is a love story. No it really is. But what kind of a love story is it? That may be the unanswerable question...
Mike and Verity are a couple you will never forget. In fact I can't tell you anything much about how the plot runs because it is hard to do that without giving away the genius of this novel - it is a furiously intriguing read, a cleverly plotted one, it has many many levels and is socially relevant in a way that is not immediately obvious. It is not until the end that you realise what the author has done and how she has done it, your brain will catch up with you and you'll think back over the entire story and look at it with thoughtful eyes.
I'm not talking about a twist in the tale - I'm talking about the whole twist BEING the tale, which is what I mean about putting the psychology firmly back into psychological thrillers.
For the rest you'll just have to read to find out. The authors afterword gives perspective and I'd recommend reading that too if you don't normally. This is one I'll be thinking about for a while. Bound to be a huge hit and a "water cooler" moment of 2018.
Highly Recommended.
January 17, 2018
I think this is going to be a VERY popular book in 2018!
I have tried writing this review 3 times and I keep deleting it because I'm afraid to give away anything about this book. I'll just say it's a very twisted love story and leave it at that.
This was such a compelling read that the pages practically flipped themselves. If you were a fan of You by Caroline Kepnes then I'm certain you'll enjoy this book.
Many thanks to NetGalley for providing me with a digital ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I have tried writing this review 3 times and I keep deleting it because I'm afraid to give away anything about this book. I'll just say it's a very twisted love story and leave it at that.
This was such a compelling read that the pages practically flipped themselves. If you were a fan of You by Caroline Kepnes then I'm certain you'll enjoy this book.
Many thanks to NetGalley for providing me with a digital ARC in exchange for my honest review.
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