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Idle Hands
You can call me Ella. You generally assign me a whole host of other preposterous monikers. I think the least imaginative name I’ve heard is “the devil”, but I’ll answer to it if I must.
After making the courageous decision to leave her abusive husband, Perdie and her three young children start over and finally find the safety and love they deserve. But years later, when tragedy strikes, Perdie is left wondering if the choice she made to leave has led them to this moment.
If she were given the opportunity to take it all back and stay, would she?
In a frantic bid to protect her family, Perdie makes a deal to do just that. But in a world where the devil pulls the strings, can Perdie really change the past?
Brimming with enlightened observations and brilliant voice, Idle Hands is a haunting examination of grief, resilience, and what we’d give to spend another moment with the ones we love.
After making the courageous decision to leave her abusive husband, Perdie and her three young children start over and finally find the safety and love they deserve. But years later, when tragedy strikes, Perdie is left wondering if the choice she made to leave has led them to this moment.
If she were given the opportunity to take it all back and stay, would she?
In a frantic bid to protect her family, Perdie makes a deal to do just that. But in a world where the devil pulls the strings, can Perdie really change the past?
Brimming with enlightened observations and brilliant voice, Idle Hands is a haunting examination of grief, resilience, and what we’d give to spend another moment with the ones we love.
224 pages, Paperback
First published July 23, 2020
52 people are currently reading
1642 people want to read
About the author
Cassondra Windwalker
25 books126 followersCassondra Windwalker earned a BA of Letters from the University of Oklahoma. She's the author of nine novels and three works of poetry who does her best to keep fed the menagerie of stray critters, cryptids, marooned kelpies, and lost specters. Born and raised on the red clay, she's wandered the sticky corn fields of the Midwest, the frozen seas of the Wild North, and frequently rests her wings where orange skies meet purple mountains. She enjoys interacting with readers, writers, and generally decent humans on social media.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 233 reviews
March 5, 2021
I’m numb! My hands are shaking. This is intense. What I feel after reading this book is equal to be in car which crushes into a wall or being stabbed in the heart brutally several times.
Perdie reminded of William Styron’s Sophie: she doesn’t decide which child of hers will leave behind but she has to decide between two dangerous paths which may result with more casualties she can ever imagine.
Perdie wants to leave her abuser husband for a long time. Her husband’s growing violent tendencies around their son is the last straw. She may endure his physical and mental abuse but she cannot let him harm her children.
She has to protect two daughters and her son to live in a dangerous territory. But what will happen to her children if she finally achieves to leave this violent life behind: how could she let her children live in poverty as she barely makes enough money to provide their needs by working at two different jobs, leaving them alone in the house broken hearted. How could she be a good mother without giving them better education opportunities and a bright future?
The adversary-the evil- watches each step she takes and sneakily waits for her to choose a path ends with heartbreak and grief.
I don’t want to give more spoilers about the story. I could only say it’s truly heart wrenching, impactful, thought provoking, depressing, soul crushing story about a mother who is ready to do whatever it takes for protecting her children in expanse her own life!
It makes us question our own decisions we make for our own children and makes us think deeply what we would do if we were in Perdie’s shoes.
The parts of the inner monologues of the evil were also brilliant, smart but at some parts they were too long and too philosophical for me which affected the intense pace of the story. But instead of that especially blood freezing, shocking conclusion was jaw dropping.
This is one of the surprising and mind spinning novels I’ve read for a long time and I’m looking forward to read more works of the author.
Special thanks to NetGalley and Agora Books for sharing this incredible ARC with me in exchange my honest opinions.
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Perdie reminded of William Styron’s Sophie: she doesn’t decide which child of hers will leave behind but she has to decide between two dangerous paths which may result with more casualties she can ever imagine.
Perdie wants to leave her abuser husband for a long time. Her husband’s growing violent tendencies around their son is the last straw. She may endure his physical and mental abuse but she cannot let him harm her children.
She has to protect two daughters and her son to live in a dangerous territory. But what will happen to her children if she finally achieves to leave this violent life behind: how could she let her children live in poverty as she barely makes enough money to provide their needs by working at two different jobs, leaving them alone in the house broken hearted. How could she be a good mother without giving them better education opportunities and a bright future?
The adversary-the evil- watches each step she takes and sneakily waits for her to choose a path ends with heartbreak and grief.
I don’t want to give more spoilers about the story. I could only say it’s truly heart wrenching, impactful, thought provoking, depressing, soul crushing story about a mother who is ready to do whatever it takes for protecting her children in expanse her own life!
It makes us question our own decisions we make for our own children and makes us think deeply what we would do if we were in Perdie’s shoes.
The parts of the inner monologues of the evil were also brilliant, smart but at some parts they were too long and too philosophical for me which affected the intense pace of the story. But instead of that especially blood freezing, shocking conclusion was jaw dropping.
This is one of the surprising and mind spinning novels I’ve read for a long time and I’m looking forward to read more works of the author.
Special thanks to NetGalley and Agora Books for sharing this incredible ARC with me in exchange my honest opinions.
blog
June 28, 2020
Oh my goodness, this book is amazing! Perdie is struggling with a dilemma which many victims of domestic abuse face. Should she leave her violent and manipulative husband Matt and risk her children (Hannah, Rachel and Tad) growing up in the possible poverty of a single parent family struggling to make ends meet or stay, protect her children, take the blows in secret so they can have the chance of the best in life. ‘Ella’ is ‘The Adversary’ better known to us humans as the Devil, whose job it is to tempt, to offer alternatives which is a game in return for a ‘win’. The story is told extremely cleverly in circular form though Perdie with interjections and reflections by Ella.
First of all, I flew through this book in one session that’s how good I think it is. It is gripping, very well written, clever and original. I love Ella’s observations on humans which are pertinent, accurate, witty, cynical and wise. Yes, wise! I don’t wish to spoil Ella’s thoughts on the nature of mankind but it’s philosophical and thought provoking. The story with Perdie’s life with Matt is desperately sad and your heart breaks at the impact he has on the mental well being of his children to say nothing of the physical effects on Perdie. Whichever route Perdie is tempted to choose there is a huge price to pay. There are some shocking scenes, stark choices and heartbreaking tests. The end is excellent as Ella reflects on the outcome.
Overall, this is compulsive and gripping reading, it makes you think and reflect on the human condition. This is a book I will definitely remember. Highly recommended.
The cover is brilliant!
With thanks to NetGalley and Agora Books
First of all, I flew through this book in one session that’s how good I think it is. It is gripping, very well written, clever and original. I love Ella’s observations on humans which are pertinent, accurate, witty, cynical and wise. Yes, wise! I don’t wish to spoil Ella’s thoughts on the nature of mankind but it’s philosophical and thought provoking. The story with Perdie’s life with Matt is desperately sad and your heart breaks at the impact he has on the mental well being of his children to say nothing of the physical effects on Perdie. Whichever route Perdie is tempted to choose there is a huge price to pay. There are some shocking scenes, stark choices and heartbreaking tests. The end is excellent as Ella reflects on the outcome.
Overall, this is compulsive and gripping reading, it makes you think and reflect on the human condition. This is a book I will definitely remember. Highly recommended.
The cover is brilliant!
With thanks to NetGalley and Agora Books
July 11, 2020
If you have ever wanted to have a philosophical conversation with the Devil-now’s your chance!
Preferring the name ELLA, (just being called THE DEVIL is so uninspired!) our narrator will explain to you how she lives for Tension, Dilemmas and Humans at a Crossroad.
She will use Perdie, a Victim of Domestic Abuse, and her three children as her examples as she makes her case for you.
“Everything happens for a reason.
Quite possibly the best lie I ever told.
What I really love is when people attribute it to God, as they nearly always do.”
Although I cannot say that I personally enjoyed the book-I have never been a fan of Third Person Omniscient Narration,- I can say that I APPRECIATED the author’s work.
It was a unique and intriguing concept -which I predict will earn high ratings from many other readers, but just wasn’t a great fit for me.
3.5 rounded down
Thank You to Netgalley and the Publisher for the digital ARC provided in exchange for a candid review!
Preferring the name ELLA, (just being called THE DEVIL is so uninspired!) our narrator will explain to you how she lives for Tension, Dilemmas and Humans at a Crossroad.
She will use Perdie, a Victim of Domestic Abuse, and her three children as her examples as she makes her case for you.
“Everything happens for a reason.
Quite possibly the best lie I ever told.
What I really love is when people attribute it to God, as they nearly always do.”
Although I cannot say that I personally enjoyed the book-I have never been a fan of Third Person Omniscient Narration,- I can say that I APPRECIATED the author’s work.
It was a unique and intriguing concept -which I predict will earn high ratings from many other readers, but just wasn’t a great fit for me.
3.5 rounded down
Thank You to Netgalley and the Publisher for the digital ARC provided in exchange for a candid review!
May 6, 2024
It's one of the most excruciatingly emotional things I've ever read, and I loved every second of it.
Not at all what I expected - I took a chance on this short read and it was a highlight in the beginning of my May reading!
Find Me On Instagram 🦋 || More Bookish Thoughts & Reviews Here 🖤
Not at all what I expected - I took a chance on this short read and it was a highlight in the beginning of my May reading!
Find Me On Instagram 🦋 || More Bookish Thoughts & Reviews Here 🖤
September 14, 2020
This book intrigued me with the premise of the "devil" or Ella, as she prefers to be called, as a narrator. I really struggled through the prologue and I was so close to calling it quits but I persevered and I was thoroughly rewarded for my efforts. I didn't quite get Ella's voice at first but then something just clicked and I found myself really enjoying this story.
This is a book about choices. If we chose another path in life would it be one of reward or one of punishment?
Perdie is a victim of domestic abuse. She has been a victim of domestic abuse since her marriage to Matt began. She took solace in the fact that he never harmed her three children. If she took the brunt of his violence then they could all go on pretending to be the perfect family.
Then it happens. Matt takes aim at their son Tad forcing Perdie to hatch a plan for them all to escape.
And she's successful and we witness their new life transform until a tragedy strikes them all down again. Now Perdie questions if she made the right choice. Had she of just stayed with Matt maybe none of this would have ever happened.
Ella hears what Perdie is thinking and provides her the alternate reality. The one in which she did stay with Matt. From here we witness what happens to a family living in fear. How every blow made shatters their souls a little more leaving them as empty shells rather than the vibrant people they should have been. And what happens when finally Enough is Enough? Is this really the better alternative?
"I'm using that term - demon - figuratively, of course. Let's not even get started on that rabbit hole. Suffice it to say that humans don't require a moment's assistance to achieve the lowest levels of evil, certainly not from my people. The only demons walking this earth today are you."
I was completely blown away by the talent of this author. Her use of language is divine. I adored Perdie and her children and I was rooting for them from the start. It's impossible not to. 4 stars!
Thank you to NetGalley and Agora Books for providing me with a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is a book about choices. If we chose another path in life would it be one of reward or one of punishment?
Perdie is a victim of domestic abuse. She has been a victim of domestic abuse since her marriage to Matt began. She took solace in the fact that he never harmed her three children. If she took the brunt of his violence then they could all go on pretending to be the perfect family.
Then it happens. Matt takes aim at their son Tad forcing Perdie to hatch a plan for them all to escape.
And she's successful and we witness their new life transform until a tragedy strikes them all down again. Now Perdie questions if she made the right choice. Had she of just stayed with Matt maybe none of this would have ever happened.
Ella hears what Perdie is thinking and provides her the alternate reality. The one in which she did stay with Matt. From here we witness what happens to a family living in fear. How every blow made shatters their souls a little more leaving them as empty shells rather than the vibrant people they should have been. And what happens when finally Enough is Enough? Is this really the better alternative?
"I'm using that term - demon - figuratively, of course. Let's not even get started on that rabbit hole. Suffice it to say that humans don't require a moment's assistance to achieve the lowest levels of evil, certainly not from my people. The only demons walking this earth today are you."
I was completely blown away by the talent of this author. Her use of language is divine. I adored Perdie and her children and I was rooting for them from the start. It's impossible not to. 4 stars!
Thank you to NetGalley and Agora Books for providing me with a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 6, 2023
—3.5 stars—
“If you give me the chance, I can give you everything they want you to sacrifice.”
“Just to live, for a second, would be worth any death.”
————about the book————
Age: A
Genres: fiction, contemporary,
Writing: 7/10
Quotes: 8/10
World building: n/a
Characters: 6/10
Romance: n/a
My rating: 7/10
TRIGGER WARNINGS: physical and emotional abuse, domestic abuse, child abuse, violence, death and grief, child death, etc.
———my thoughts———
After making the courageous decision to leave her abusive husband, Perdie and her three children can start over and finally find the safety and love they always wanted.
But years later, when tragedy strikes, Perdie is left wondering if she made the right choice to leave.
If given the opportunity to take it all back, to go back, would she?
In a frantic attempt to protect her family, Perdie makes a deal with the devil to do just that.
But is it really the right choice?
This was so, so hard to listen to.
It had so many hard topics, so many situations that are painfully true, so many things so many people have been through.
It was especially heartbreaking to hear as audio, when there’s no escape from what’s happening, and you just have to keep listening.
It’s not a fun, happy book.
It was so heart wrenching, but I had many issues with some plot points.
Such as Ella.
She’s meant to be the devil, an omniscient narrator watching the struggles of the human race.
But, as there was only one audio narrator, I found it a little hard to distinguish her parts from Perdie’s sometimes.
The whole idea of having Ella was good...I just don’t think it particularly fitted.
This book is so sad for the majority of it, that Ella’s snide comments about humanity felt ill placed and jarring.
However...she did have some very good quotes.
The whole ‘deal with the devil’ thing was well carried out, and truly shows how much humans believe that the other choice is always better, like they could fix everything if they did it again.
More than anything, it felt like an exploration of humanity, the good, the bad, and the impulses that make us us.
But if you’re planning to read this, or are curious, please please check out the trigger warnings.
————quotes————
“I'm here for the rollercoaster, baby, for the lights and the colors and the screams.”
“It was her fault she'd stayed so long that they'd grown inured to terror the only way they knew how: by sympathising with the aggressor”
“Children read books for the opposite reason as adults do: they're hunting for hidden truths, while adults are searching for palatable lies.”
“I’m the choice some of you find so necessary to free will.”
“Everyone knows that a fairytale only gets interesting after the happy ending.”
———random extra thoughts———
I wasn’t actually going to write a full review...but here we are.
Thanks for reading!❤️
“If you give me the chance, I can give you everything they want you to sacrifice.”
“Just to live, for a second, would be worth any death.”
————about the book————
Age: A
Genres: fiction, contemporary,
Writing: 7/10
Quotes: 8/10
World building: n/a
Characters: 6/10
Romance: n/a
My rating: 7/10
TRIGGER WARNINGS: physical and emotional abuse, domestic abuse, child abuse, violence, death and grief, child death, etc.
———my thoughts———
After making the courageous decision to leave her abusive husband, Perdie and her three children can start over and finally find the safety and love they always wanted.
But years later, when tragedy strikes, Perdie is left wondering if she made the right choice to leave.
If given the opportunity to take it all back, to go back, would she?
In a frantic attempt to protect her family, Perdie makes a deal with the devil to do just that.
But is it really the right choice?
This was so, so hard to listen to.
It had so many hard topics, so many situations that are painfully true, so many things so many people have been through.
It was especially heartbreaking to hear as audio, when there’s no escape from what’s happening, and you just have to keep listening.
It’s not a fun, happy book.
It was so heart wrenching, but I had many issues with some plot points.
Such as Ella.
She’s meant to be the devil, an omniscient narrator watching the struggles of the human race.
But, as there was only one audio narrator, I found it a little hard to distinguish her parts from Perdie’s sometimes.
The whole idea of having Ella was good...I just don’t think it particularly fitted.
This book is so sad for the majority of it, that Ella’s snide comments about humanity felt ill placed and jarring.
However...she did have some very good quotes.
The whole ‘deal with the devil’ thing was well carried out, and truly shows how much humans believe that the other choice is always better, like they could fix everything if they did it again.
More than anything, it felt like an exploration of humanity, the good, the bad, and the impulses that make us us.
But if you’re planning to read this, or are curious, please please check out the trigger warnings.
————quotes————
“I'm here for the rollercoaster, baby, for the lights and the colors and the screams.”
“It was her fault she'd stayed so long that they'd grown inured to terror the only way they knew how: by sympathising with the aggressor”
“Children read books for the opposite reason as adults do: they're hunting for hidden truths, while adults are searching for palatable lies.”
“I’m the choice some of you find so necessary to free will.”
“Everyone knows that a fairytale only gets interesting after the happy ending.”
———random extra thoughts———
I wasn’t actually going to write a full review...but here we are.
Thanks for reading!❤️
July 7, 2020
This book is amazing, I read it holding my breath, scared to miss a single word, gripped from start to finish.
Perdie and her husband Matt have three children Hannah, Rachel and Tod. Matt is abusive towards her, but she is now worried that he will turn his aggression to their son Tod. She has to make a decision whether to leave her husband and start life again, but it would be a hard life leaving her children home alone whilst she tries to earn enough to keep them fed and clothed.
Watching from the sidelines Ella, the adversary or in layman’s terms the devil, is always watching, seeing what decisions she makes, tempting her with alternative choices. Whatever option she takes there seems to be a high pay to pay.
The story is told from Perdie’s and Ella’s points of view. There are some heartbreaking moments and impossible decisions to make along the way, but a mother will do anything to protect her children.
Thank you to Netgalley for my copy in exchange for a review.
Perdie and her husband Matt have three children Hannah, Rachel and Tod. Matt is abusive towards her, but she is now worried that he will turn his aggression to their son Tod. She has to make a decision whether to leave her husband and start life again, but it would be a hard life leaving her children home alone whilst she tries to earn enough to keep them fed and clothed.
Watching from the sidelines Ella, the adversary or in layman’s terms the devil, is always watching, seeing what decisions she makes, tempting her with alternative choices. Whatever option she takes there seems to be a high pay to pay.
The story is told from Perdie’s and Ella’s points of view. There are some heartbreaking moments and impossible decisions to make along the way, but a mother will do anything to protect her children.
Thank you to Netgalley for my copy in exchange for a review.
July 12, 2020
This book has a great premise - who wouldn’t want to read a book with the Devil (true name Ella, female) as a narrator? The book is also very well-written, and focuses on Perdie, a mother trapped in a cycle of domestic violence. Ella offers her certain “deals” and the book follows Perdie through these deals in a very thoughtful and interesting way.
Unfortunately though despite having some great ideas, and despite being very well-written and covering topics I find important, I just didn’t fully connect with the book. I might have preferred alternating chapters with the Devil & Perdie - some of the interruptions broke up the flow of the book for me. And interestingly, though I picked the book because of the great idea of the devil narrator, it was Perdie’s voice I wanted to hear more of throughout the book. I also kept wanting Perdie to assert herself more and gain some independence and the end of the book did not give me that in a resolution I wanted.
Ultimately I think this is a case of “it’s not you, it’s me.” I didn’t love the book, but it’s well-written and has some great ideas, so if the initial conceit and the style of Ella’s interruptions appeals to you, you’ll probably like it. The format just didn’t work for me. I would give it a 3.5 though for the skill of the writing.
Thanks to Agora Books, NetGalley and the author for the advance copy to read!
Unfortunately though despite having some great ideas, and despite being very well-written and covering topics I find important, I just didn’t fully connect with the book. I might have preferred alternating chapters with the Devil & Perdie - some of the interruptions broke up the flow of the book for me. And interestingly, though I picked the book because of the great idea of the devil narrator, it was Perdie’s voice I wanted to hear more of throughout the book. I also kept wanting Perdie to assert herself more and gain some independence and the end of the book did not give me that in a resolution I wanted.
Ultimately I think this is a case of “it’s not you, it’s me.” I didn’t love the book, but it’s well-written and has some great ideas, so if the initial conceit and the style of Ella’s interruptions appeals to you, you’ll probably like it. The format just didn’t work for me. I would give it a 3.5 though for the skill of the writing.
Thanks to Agora Books, NetGalley and the author for the advance copy to read!
December 23, 2020
Idle Hands by Cassondra Windwalker is a bone-chilling work of fiction. The Devil as the narrator reminded me of The Book Thief by Markus Zusak in which Death narrated the story.
The story revolves around a mother of two who is in an abusive relationship. She takes the plunge to leave her husband for the sake of her children, but bad stuff happens to them anyway. The Devil gives her a chance to roll back the clock and be back with her husband as if she never left. But we all know how an abusive relationship is likely to end - especially not in a cliched happy ending.
The book makes one rethink the decisions we take in our lifetime.
Thanks to the author and the publisher for the ARC.
Verdict: Recommended.
The story revolves around a mother of two who is in an abusive relationship. She takes the plunge to leave her husband for the sake of her children, but bad stuff happens to them anyway. The Devil gives her a chance to roll back the clock and be back with her husband as if she never left. But we all know how an abusive relationship is likely to end - especially not in a cliched happy ending.
The book makes one rethink the decisions we take in our lifetime.
Thanks to the author and the publisher for the ARC.
Verdict: Recommended.
July 11, 2020
This is a hard one to review. The book is presented in a different format to what we are used to - giving us the story of Perdie and her three children interspersed with observations on the human condition by our narrator Ella, otherwise known as ‘the devil’. When Ella offers Perdie a way out of a tragic circumstance she blindly grabs for it. Of course the grass isn’t always greener on the other side.
Perdie’s husband is a wife batterer and her dilemma is - should she leave him and the financial security he offers and see less of her children because she would have to work hard to support them? Or should she stay, protecting them as best she can by offering her own body as a punching bag? That’s what I call being between a rock and a hard place! Neither of these options provides a fairy tale ending as Perdie learns. This book was very bleak and, to be fair, I’ve just reached my limit for bleakness and wife battering, so in a normal run of books I may have viewed this more favourably.
At the start Ella’s interjections were witty and acerbically accurate but as the book progressed I found them getting a bit repetitive. Also, as an entity that promised ‘pleasures of the flesh’ she sure didn’t deliver a lot of those to Perdie. I also thought there were a few contradictions but I didn’t bother going back to find the specifics. The book was interesting conceptually, but in reality I didn’t enjoy it as much as I expected, although that may not be down to the book itself. Ella’s biggest take home messages seemed to be the whole world balance doesn’t hang on every choice you personally make. And sometimes, no matter what choice you make the outcome will be bad. The cover art is brilliant and very apt. Many thanks to Netgalley, Agora Books and Cassondra Windwalker for providing a copy for me to review. 3.5 stars rounded down.
Perdie’s husband is a wife batterer and her dilemma is - should she leave him and the financial security he offers and see less of her children because she would have to work hard to support them? Or should she stay, protecting them as best she can by offering her own body as a punching bag? That’s what I call being between a rock and a hard place! Neither of these options provides a fairy tale ending as Perdie learns. This book was very bleak and, to be fair, I’ve just reached my limit for bleakness and wife battering, so in a normal run of books I may have viewed this more favourably.
At the start Ella’s interjections were witty and acerbically accurate but as the book progressed I found them getting a bit repetitive. Also, as an entity that promised ‘pleasures of the flesh’ she sure didn’t deliver a lot of those to Perdie. I also thought there were a few contradictions but I didn’t bother going back to find the specifics. The book was interesting conceptually, but in reality I didn’t enjoy it as much as I expected, although that may not be down to the book itself. Ella’s biggest take home messages seemed to be the whole world balance doesn’t hang on every choice you personally make. And sometimes, no matter what choice you make the outcome will be bad. The cover art is brilliant and very apt. Many thanks to Netgalley, Agora Books and Cassondra Windwalker for providing a copy for me to review. 3.5 stars rounded down.
May 22, 2020
Idle Hands follows Perdie and her 3 kids struggling with an abusive husband. I don't want to give much else away because that would ruin it but I did speed through this in one day. I just wanted to know what would happen to everyone and if Perdie would be able to save her kids in the end. I found Ella, the narrating devil to be intriguing and offered some interesting insights about the human condition. I enjoyed this read and would recommend it.
Also, this cover is creepy and I love it. Thank you netgalley for the advanced copy!
Also, this cover is creepy and I love it. Thank you netgalley for the advanced copy!
March 16, 2024
Wildly original and unique. I’ve never read anything quite like it…maybe reminded me a bit of Sign Here. Very emotional, even a bit difficult to read sometimes—a few scenes were extremely tense for me. CWs for domestic violence, death, grief, loss.
I loved the Devil interludes; very clever.
I loved the Devil interludes; very clever.
July 28, 2020
I was not sure what to expect with this novel as I felt the blurb was quite ambigious. However, this is a really quirky novel and quite unlike anything I have read in a long time! It was completely deserving of five stars and I think this story is going to stick with me for a while.
The premise of this story is founded on a family who suffers from domestic abuse. Littered throughout the plot, we have commentary from the Devil who provides a more spiritual and abstract narrative to the events unfolding. Firstly, Perdie and her family are suffering from the husband’s abuse and, when we first meet them, Perdie is making the brave decision to escape this life. What follows is a new way of life that is happy, content and secure – all qualities that Perdie never expected when she first leaves her husband.
However, a fatal accident in the middle of the book sees the Devil intervene and Perdie’s life runs on a different path. I enjoyed this idea of living with the consequences of life choices as the Devil challenges the concept of Fate. The Devil (he? She?) comments on Perdie and her family, trying to allow readers to explain why they have not intervened or shown a new path at an earlier time. I particularly enjoyed the sarcasm of the Devil’s narrative, particularly when they are arguing common beliefs. Consequently, this feature of the story added a more fairy-tale-esque quality that I guess made this book slightly of the fantasy genre.
The theme of domestic abuse is naturally harrowing for readers but one that the writer treats delicately. The closing scenes are tense and traumatic, leaving me glad that the Devil had the final chapters – justifying the events that we have seen unfold and providing just a little bit of optimism after such emotion.
A common concept that is portrayed using more abstract techniques, I was pulled into Windwalker’s writing style. It is such an imaginative delivery of what is essentially a traumatic topic. The questions that the Devil raises in their narrative are ones that the reader would usually be reluctant to discuss – which of course reinforces the Devil’s own nature. As such, I am excited to see how other readers receive this story. It gives something so different and I hope others can appreciate this unique style for themselves.
With thanks to Agora books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The premise of this story is founded on a family who suffers from domestic abuse. Littered throughout the plot, we have commentary from the Devil who provides a more spiritual and abstract narrative to the events unfolding. Firstly, Perdie and her family are suffering from the husband’s abuse and, when we first meet them, Perdie is making the brave decision to escape this life. What follows is a new way of life that is happy, content and secure – all qualities that Perdie never expected when she first leaves her husband.
However, a fatal accident in the middle of the book sees the Devil intervene and Perdie’s life runs on a different path. I enjoyed this idea of living with the consequences of life choices as the Devil challenges the concept of Fate. The Devil (he? She?) comments on Perdie and her family, trying to allow readers to explain why they have not intervened or shown a new path at an earlier time. I particularly enjoyed the sarcasm of the Devil’s narrative, particularly when they are arguing common beliefs. Consequently, this feature of the story added a more fairy-tale-esque quality that I guess made this book slightly of the fantasy genre.
The theme of domestic abuse is naturally harrowing for readers but one that the writer treats delicately. The closing scenes are tense and traumatic, leaving me glad that the Devil had the final chapters – justifying the events that we have seen unfold and providing just a little bit of optimism after such emotion.
A common concept that is portrayed using more abstract techniques, I was pulled into Windwalker’s writing style. It is such an imaginative delivery of what is essentially a traumatic topic. The questions that the Devil raises in their narrative are ones that the reader would usually be reluctant to discuss – which of course reinforces the Devil’s own nature. As such, I am excited to see how other readers receive this story. It gives something so different and I hope others can appreciate this unique style for themselves.
With thanks to Agora books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 3, 2020
OK, here goes, I’m not sure where to begin with this one.
One of the most unusual books I’ve read in a while and almost impossible to categorize. It’s a bit like the film ‘sliding doors’ but narrated by the devil. Mmmhh intrigued. I was after about 70 pages. With quotes like this from him down below!
“I’m not the teacher. I’m the test. I have nothing to teach you. No judgment to hand down”
A story of ‘what if’s’ and consequences.
So like I said, narrated by the devil himself.. in this case the devil who calls herself “Ella” and she introduces us to Perdie and her desperate life she has with her pig of a husband and her three children.
Her husband is an abuser and makes her life hell and as we see in the opening stages of the story she’s had enough and she’s planned her escape and is executing it.
Moving on in her new life in Colorado she experiences tragedy and she is given the opportunity to make a change - make it all go away and she steps into what I call that sliding door moment. Sorry Cassondra Windwalker - you probably hate me using that phrase.
....... Anyway she makes a deal with the devil and things change... for the better or worse. Without spoiling it for you I can’t really give you any more details.
It’s a sad story and centers around mankind and how dumb we are at times. We choose our paths and we follow them. But if we were given the chance to change would we ? But there’s always a catch isn’t there? Well there is when your dealing with the devil himself.. or herself in this case.
This is dark but wrote in a different kind of dark. Also with domestic abuse thrown in - you may want to sit it out.
There’s a lot in this story with great characters and lots of behavioral and psychology humanisms.
The ending is left a little wide of open so if you need everything tied up with a massive “the end ribbon’ tough.
If you need something different and unique this ones definitely for you.
“Trim your wick, lift your shade. Cast that shine a little closer. I do get weary of darkness”
Fantastic writing, totally different. 4 stars
Thank you Agora books.
Published 23rd July
One of the most unusual books I’ve read in a while and almost impossible to categorize. It’s a bit like the film ‘sliding doors’ but narrated by the devil. Mmmhh intrigued. I was after about 70 pages. With quotes like this from him down below!
“I’m not the teacher. I’m the test. I have nothing to teach you. No judgment to hand down”
A story of ‘what if’s’ and consequences.
So like I said, narrated by the devil himself.. in this case the devil who calls herself “Ella” and she introduces us to Perdie and her desperate life she has with her pig of a husband and her three children.
Her husband is an abuser and makes her life hell and as we see in the opening stages of the story she’s had enough and she’s planned her escape and is executing it.
Moving on in her new life in Colorado she experiences tragedy and she is given the opportunity to make a change - make it all go away and she steps into what I call that sliding door moment. Sorry Cassondra Windwalker - you probably hate me using that phrase.
....... Anyway she makes a deal with the devil and things change... for the better or worse. Without spoiling it for you I can’t really give you any more details.
It’s a sad story and centers around mankind and how dumb we are at times. We choose our paths and we follow them. But if we were given the chance to change would we ? But there’s always a catch isn’t there? Well there is when your dealing with the devil himself.. or herself in this case.
This is dark but wrote in a different kind of dark. Also with domestic abuse thrown in - you may want to sit it out.
There’s a lot in this story with great characters and lots of behavioral and psychology humanisms.
The ending is left a little wide of open so if you need everything tied up with a massive “the end ribbon’ tough.
If you need something different and unique this ones definitely for you.
“Trim your wick, lift your shade. Cast that shine a little closer. I do get weary of darkness”
Fantastic writing, totally different. 4 stars
Thank you Agora books.
Published 23rd July
June 30, 2020
Oh, how decadent. A novel narrated by the devil himself, otherwise known as, Ella. I would have thought him to be more maniacal. He seems quite bored with us, unless we choose to stand and shine our light.
So, here comes Miss Perdie. A woman that believes she is a victim of circumstance. If she can just hang on a little while longer, all will be well. In the short term or in the long term. Either way, it's not okay. Sometimes we delude ourselves, and in that delusion, we are not the only person harmed. Sometimes things happens no matter what we do, no matter what decisions we make.
In desperation, what kind of choices will a person make? What does Ella find so fascinating about this family? Whose light shines the brightest and what does the devil get out of this?
Finished this book in one sitting to find out the answers. Well worth the read. Definitely not what you expect. Not every story has a happy ending.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher, and Cassondra Windwalker for an ARC in return for an honest review.
So, here comes Miss Perdie. A woman that believes she is a victim of circumstance. If she can just hang on a little while longer, all will be well. In the short term or in the long term. Either way, it's not okay. Sometimes we delude ourselves, and in that delusion, we are not the only person harmed. Sometimes things happens no matter what we do, no matter what decisions we make.
In desperation, what kind of choices will a person make? What does Ella find so fascinating about this family? Whose light shines the brightest and what does the devil get out of this?
Finished this book in one sitting to find out the answers. Well worth the read. Definitely not what you expect. Not every story has a happy ending.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher, and Cassondra Windwalker for an ARC in return for an honest review.
July 9, 2020
Perdie and her three children make a new life for themselves after escaping her abusive husband.
A story that made me think about choices and how far you would go to protect your family.
Thank you to NetGalley and Agora Books for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
A story that made me think about choices and how far you would go to protect your family.
Thank you to NetGalley and Agora Books for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
August 18, 2024
"There is no happiness. There is only fleeting pleasure and pain. So choose pleasure when you can, because the pain is inescapable when it advances."
Wow this was heavy.
Wow this was heavy.
July 27, 2020
Book reviews on www.snazzybooks.com
Idle Hands is one of those books that has you contemplating its occurences long after finishing it. The story of Perdie and her family really drew me in, as did the mysterious but intriguing passages from ‘Ella’ – or the Devil, as we would be more likely to know ‘her’… she takes us through Perdie and her three daughter’s lives with abusive father Matt, and a decision to protect her children which somehow leads to a tragic accident. This leaves Perdie wishing she could take it all back and do things differently, and Ella is right there to grant her that wish – but although this will make things play out differently, will it make things any better?
Therein lies the premise of the book – do different decisions necessarily mean that someone’s life will play out differently and, most importantly, improve, or can things end up the same kind of way regardless?
The book is split up into different parts, as we see one version of Perdie and the children’s lives, and then another alternative set of events. I found some parts incredibly poignant and I really felt for Perdie’s desperation to make things better for her family -there’s a lot of grief and despair here. I found that there were some characters I really felt a sense of connection with, and some that I wish had more of a presence in the book but, due to the plot, couldn’t!
Ella’s observations on human life and behaviour are incredibly interesting, as she offers a different perspective – but not always a positive one, so it can make for uncomfortable reading at times! She’s witty, acerbic, and cynical, but a lot of what she says makes sense. Her narration also left me feeling a little despondent at times; I wanted things to go a certain way but from what she was saying I knew it wasn’t quite going to be! Still, I rooted for Perdie and the kids at every page and hugely enjoyed (if that is the right word) the story unfolding. There are (unsurprisingly) some parts which made for tough reading but it was well presented by the author.
It’s hard to say too much about this book without giving too much away, but I’d really recommend this book – it’s beautifully written, observant, and thought-provoking.
Idle Hands is one of those books that has you contemplating its occurences long after finishing it. The story of Perdie and her family really drew me in, as did the mysterious but intriguing passages from ‘Ella’ – or the Devil, as we would be more likely to know ‘her’… she takes us through Perdie and her three daughter’s lives with abusive father Matt, and a decision to protect her children which somehow leads to a tragic accident. This leaves Perdie wishing she could take it all back and do things differently, and Ella is right there to grant her that wish – but although this will make things play out differently, will it make things any better?
Therein lies the premise of the book – do different decisions necessarily mean that someone’s life will play out differently and, most importantly, improve, or can things end up the same kind of way regardless?
The book is split up into different parts, as we see one version of Perdie and the children’s lives, and then another alternative set of events. I found some parts incredibly poignant and I really felt for Perdie’s desperation to make things better for her family -there’s a lot of grief and despair here. I found that there were some characters I really felt a sense of connection with, and some that I wish had more of a presence in the book but, due to the plot, couldn’t!
Ella’s observations on human life and behaviour are incredibly interesting, as she offers a different perspective – but not always a positive one, so it can make for uncomfortable reading at times! She’s witty, acerbic, and cynical, but a lot of what she says makes sense. Her narration also left me feeling a little despondent at times; I wanted things to go a certain way but from what she was saying I knew it wasn’t quite going to be! Still, I rooted for Perdie and the kids at every page and hugely enjoyed (if that is the right word) the story unfolding. There are (unsurprisingly) some parts which made for tough reading but it was well presented by the author.
It’s hard to say too much about this book without giving too much away, but I’d really recommend this book – it’s beautifully written, observant, and thought-provoking.
August 30, 2020
“The devil is in the details”
OMG! Where to begin! Now I have finished sobbing into my tissues, I need to pull myself together and put into words just how much I enjoyed this book and how amazing it is!
Most importantly, I do recommend, that if you decide to read this book, which I very much hope that you will, you should take extra time to actually truly study each and every word of not only the core narrative and dialogue, but also the very thought provoking interjections by ‘Ellie’, giving yourself plenty of time to absorb and assimilate author Cassondra Windwalker’s amazingly descriptive powers with the written word. I promise you, the punch it packs will be more than worth it. Almost every sentence was memorable for me and I could have shared so many more wonderful quotes with you!
A powerful work of literary, poetical and lyrical fiction, all rolled into one relatively short book, compelling and original, which pushes the buttons for just about every human emotion, then turns each and every scenario on its head and walks away, leaving the reader to dissemble and rearrange their true feelings about the whole spectrum of events and their ensuing tragic consequences.
The writing itself, is intense, raw, energy draining, profoundly touching and totally absorbing. Its unique and unconventional style messed with my mind and emotions, whilst also physically leaving my guts in a tight knot of fear and trepidation.
The opening lines had me hooked, the storyline was sickeningly detailed, hugely poignant and engrossing almost to the point of being voyeuristic. The ending was always going to belong to ‘Ellie’, with either of Perdie’s options resulting in total heartbreak and the ruination of so many lives. A story not neatly packaged, but one which reflected the not so neatly packaged lives of its characters and the total devastation heaped upon them by their nemesis which went by the name of ‘Ellie’ – The Devil’s Advocate!
To say that the storyline is gripping, might be to downplay the terrifying truths of what it must be like to be a family subjected to domestic abuse and violence. However Cassondra highlights all too vividly, through the lives of Perdie, Tad, Hannah and Rachel, those feelings of total despair, devastation, futility and ‘aloneness’, which all too many face at the hands of an abusive family member. Whether to fight or flee, speak out or suffer in silence; differing levels of cruelty, but all too often resulting in the same tragic consequences. Made no easier for Perdie by having the Devil constantly on her shoulder, unseen yet whispering in her ear throughout, making her doubt the value and wisdom of her decisions and waiting for its opportunity to push her over the edge, knowing that there can only ever be one winner in this game, but plenty of heartbroken losers! There is a jaw dropping and totally unexpected twist to this story at about the 75% marker, which I never saw coming and have personally, never seen attempted by an author before. At first I just couldn’t see how everything was going to flow smoothly and still work out to some conclusion, however Cassondra triumphed yet again, leaving me in complete awe of her talents as a bold writer and creative storyteller of distinction. With Perdie’s broken voice ringing in my ears, I was left to decide which sacrifices she ultimately chooses to make and wishing that ‘Ellie’ wasn’t lying in wait for her, as she is for all of us, to take that one wrong decision which will have us turning into her deadly embrace, rather than denouncing her, leaving her to tread the solitary pathway to her next victim!
The cast of characters, all searching for a sense of belonging, definitely came alive on the pages, as each travelled on their own, visually descriptive and doomed journey to inevitable heartbreak. None of them were outstandingly enigmatic or memorable as victims, with maybe Perdie’s middle daughter, Rachel, having the most spunk and determination of them all to see wrongs righted, although that final ultimate sacrifice is never hers to make. And as you would expect, as the abuser, Matt, the self-professed victim of events not of his own making, made the most noise, wielding the sharpest tongue and the most deadly of fists and feet, in the full belief that his wife and children should be treated as nothing more than an extension of his own identity.
Perdie was perhaps the most constant of characters, always silently defending and protecting her children, whether soaking up Matt’s fury, or basking in the glow of Reilly’s love and adoration. Her final devotion to duty was never going to end well and perhaps in some perverse way, I found myself rooting for Reilly, a rock and safe haven, whose faith in Perdie and the children was unshakeable, total and final. If only Perdie’s faith in herself could have been so steadfast. I touch briefly on the character of Reilly, but to expand on his role in the story would be to give away too many spoilers, so you really do need to go into this part of the journey ‘blind’ and ready to embrace the short time of humanity, stability and levity with which Cassondra has so poignantly imbued the storyline.
In their own individual roles though, each character was sympathetically and sensitively defined, if not particularly easy to connect with and I found myself investing all my time and energy in them, during this condensed, short, yet excruciatingly desperate and painful journey.
This book would be an excellent choice for a book club or reading group, so long as you have a varied spectrum of members, with wide ranging, open-minded views about right and wrong, good and evil. I have no doubt that the ensuing discussions and debates would be lively – and you might even come up with a whole new ending for Perdie!
OMG! Where to begin! Now I have finished sobbing into my tissues, I need to pull myself together and put into words just how much I enjoyed this book and how amazing it is!
Most importantly, I do recommend, that if you decide to read this book, which I very much hope that you will, you should take extra time to actually truly study each and every word of not only the core narrative and dialogue, but also the very thought provoking interjections by ‘Ellie’, giving yourself plenty of time to absorb and assimilate author Cassondra Windwalker’s amazingly descriptive powers with the written word. I promise you, the punch it packs will be more than worth it. Almost every sentence was memorable for me and I could have shared so many more wonderful quotes with you!
A powerful work of literary, poetical and lyrical fiction, all rolled into one relatively short book, compelling and original, which pushes the buttons for just about every human emotion, then turns each and every scenario on its head and walks away, leaving the reader to dissemble and rearrange their true feelings about the whole spectrum of events and their ensuing tragic consequences.
The writing itself, is intense, raw, energy draining, profoundly touching and totally absorbing. Its unique and unconventional style messed with my mind and emotions, whilst also physically leaving my guts in a tight knot of fear and trepidation.
The opening lines had me hooked, the storyline was sickeningly detailed, hugely poignant and engrossing almost to the point of being voyeuristic. The ending was always going to belong to ‘Ellie’, with either of Perdie’s options resulting in total heartbreak and the ruination of so many lives. A story not neatly packaged, but one which reflected the not so neatly packaged lives of its characters and the total devastation heaped upon them by their nemesis which went by the name of ‘Ellie’ – The Devil’s Advocate!
To say that the storyline is gripping, might be to downplay the terrifying truths of what it must be like to be a family subjected to domestic abuse and violence. However Cassondra highlights all too vividly, through the lives of Perdie, Tad, Hannah and Rachel, those feelings of total despair, devastation, futility and ‘aloneness’, which all too many face at the hands of an abusive family member. Whether to fight or flee, speak out or suffer in silence; differing levels of cruelty, but all too often resulting in the same tragic consequences. Made no easier for Perdie by having the Devil constantly on her shoulder, unseen yet whispering in her ear throughout, making her doubt the value and wisdom of her decisions and waiting for its opportunity to push her over the edge, knowing that there can only ever be one winner in this game, but plenty of heartbroken losers! There is a jaw dropping and totally unexpected twist to this story at about the 75% marker, which I never saw coming and have personally, never seen attempted by an author before. At first I just couldn’t see how everything was going to flow smoothly and still work out to some conclusion, however Cassondra triumphed yet again, leaving me in complete awe of her talents as a bold writer and creative storyteller of distinction. With Perdie’s broken voice ringing in my ears, I was left to decide which sacrifices she ultimately chooses to make and wishing that ‘Ellie’ wasn’t lying in wait for her, as she is for all of us, to take that one wrong decision which will have us turning into her deadly embrace, rather than denouncing her, leaving her to tread the solitary pathway to her next victim!
The cast of characters, all searching for a sense of belonging, definitely came alive on the pages, as each travelled on their own, visually descriptive and doomed journey to inevitable heartbreak. None of them were outstandingly enigmatic or memorable as victims, with maybe Perdie’s middle daughter, Rachel, having the most spunk and determination of them all to see wrongs righted, although that final ultimate sacrifice is never hers to make. And as you would expect, as the abuser, Matt, the self-professed victim of events not of his own making, made the most noise, wielding the sharpest tongue and the most deadly of fists and feet, in the full belief that his wife and children should be treated as nothing more than an extension of his own identity.
Perdie was perhaps the most constant of characters, always silently defending and protecting her children, whether soaking up Matt’s fury, or basking in the glow of Reilly’s love and adoration. Her final devotion to duty was never going to end well and perhaps in some perverse way, I found myself rooting for Reilly, a rock and safe haven, whose faith in Perdie and the children was unshakeable, total and final. If only Perdie’s faith in herself could have been so steadfast. I touch briefly on the character of Reilly, but to expand on his role in the story would be to give away too many spoilers, so you really do need to go into this part of the journey ‘blind’ and ready to embrace the short time of humanity, stability and levity with which Cassondra has so poignantly imbued the storyline.
In their own individual roles though, each character was sympathetically and sensitively defined, if not particularly easy to connect with and I found myself investing all my time and energy in them, during this condensed, short, yet excruciatingly desperate and painful journey.
This book would be an excellent choice for a book club or reading group, so long as you have a varied spectrum of members, with wide ranging, open-minded views about right and wrong, good and evil. I have no doubt that the ensuing discussions and debates would be lively – and you might even come up with a whole new ending for Perdie!
July 26, 2020
Well. I’ll be! This was brilliant. I have absolutely no idea what I expected when I requested this on netgalley but I am floored by how much I loved it. Thank you so much to Agora Books, Netgalley and the author for the advanced e-copy of this book.
cw: domestic violence, spousal abuse, child abuse, death of a child (child is an older teenager)
From the point of view of Ella, or as we know them on Earth: the devil, we follow Perdie and her family as they navigate a traumatic situation, tripping back through time to focus on the what ifs and what could bes as Perdie leaves her abusive husband. It asks the question: if you could change something: would you? should you? and what would happen if you did?
With such a sensitive subject matter, and such a high concept, this could easily have been trite or twee or quietly judgmental but it was none of those things. It was just spectacularly done. The perfect balance of voice, story, sensitivity, philosophy and tongue in cheek subtext. It’s dark and harrowing but utterly enchanting. I just ugh! loved it. Loved loved loved it. One of my favourite reads of the year.
cw: domestic violence, spousal abuse, child abuse, death of a child (child is an older teenager)
From the point of view of Ella, or as we know them on Earth: the devil, we follow Perdie and her family as they navigate a traumatic situation, tripping back through time to focus on the what ifs and what could bes as Perdie leaves her abusive husband. It asks the question: if you could change something: would you? should you? and what would happen if you did?
With such a sensitive subject matter, and such a high concept, this could easily have been trite or twee or quietly judgmental but it was none of those things. It was just spectacularly done. The perfect balance of voice, story, sensitivity, philosophy and tongue in cheek subtext. It’s dark and harrowing but utterly enchanting. I just ugh! loved it. Loved loved loved it. One of my favourite reads of the year.
December 3, 2024
Perdie and her three children leave town to escape Perdie’s abusive husband. The children, Hannah, Rachel, and Tad all react negatively in different ways. Still, they successfully make a home. When tragedy strikes, Perdie is given a choice that has consequences.
The “devil”, an entity known as Ella, is our storyteller, and also the main character. Ella explains what it’s like to be the devil and what motivates her, and the ways she may or may not cause ruin to her “assignments”.
This was uniquely written. When considering how and why Ella has chances to insert herself into a situation, the author is able to give Ella personality and motivations by thinking outside the box.
This was really thought provoking and dark. It did drag slightly at times, but my interest held. Four solid stars.
The “devil”, an entity known as Ella, is our storyteller, and also the main character. Ella explains what it’s like to be the devil and what motivates her, and the ways she may or may not cause ruin to her “assignments”.
This was uniquely written. When considering how and why Ella has chances to insert herself into a situation, the author is able to give Ella personality and motivations by thinking outside the box.
This was really thought provoking and dark. It did drag slightly at times, but my interest held. Four solid stars.
July 8, 2020
I had to give this a whole 5 stars. My mind was blown at the intricacies of the story. This is definitely not something for people who get existential quite often, or for people who don't want to read things that challenge Christianity.
I found myself crying in the final couple of chapters by how moving the story was. It deals quite heavily with what if? situations, namely 'what if I escaped my abusive relationship?' I loved how we got insights into both Perdie's actions and Ella's narration, I thought that really gave the story more dimension.
Idle Hands was so intricately woven and so well told. It gave a whole new meaning to unreliable narrator! This is definitely a book that I hope is marketed better than it already has been, as I know it's something so many people could enjoy! It's out in e-book format on July 23rd 2020 and in print format on August 20th 2020!
Content Warnings: existentialism, domestic abuse, anti-religious themes, child abuse, divorce, death, murder, eating disorder, fatphobia, bullying
Thank you to Agora Books for sending me the copy in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
I found myself crying in the final couple of chapters by how moving the story was. It deals quite heavily with what if? situations, namely 'what if I escaped my abusive relationship?' I loved how we got insights into both Perdie's actions and Ella's narration, I thought that really gave the story more dimension.
Idle Hands was so intricately woven and so well told. It gave a whole new meaning to unreliable narrator! This is definitely a book that I hope is marketed better than it already has been, as I know it's something so many people could enjoy! It's out in e-book format on July 23rd 2020 and in print format on August 20th 2020!
Content Warnings: existentialism, domestic abuse, anti-religious themes, child abuse, divorce, death, murder, eating disorder, fatphobia, bullying
Thank you to Agora Books for sending me the copy in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
July 23, 2020
The storyline of this novel follows Perdie and her children who are trapped within an abusive marriage, and plays with the idea of fate and Higher Powers effect on the lives of humans. This was a strange read for me, but I ultimately ended up loving it. It took me a while to understand the format as it is narrated by a figure playing the Devil, but this hooked me in very quickly as I knew it was going to be something a little different.
I was at first dubious of the dual narrative, but quickly found myself anticipating The Devils interludes that were lyrically written. As well as this, the character of The Devil provided comic relief from a deep subject matter in the form of cynicism and matter of fact attitude which I really enjoyed. As this was quite a short read I felt it lacked depth in places (especially due to centring on the subject of abuse). The first section of this book felt slightly rushed and as a result I did find it hard to follow at times due to the storyline jumping around, however the short chapters really added the the pace and made me want to keep reading.
The nature of this book consistantly foreshadows ominous future events which means it is at times predictable, though I felt it provided some great twists that I didn't anticipate. Perdie as a character is often infuriating in her choices (just when you think things might work out for the better..) but even the Narrator points this out, so is clearly intentional.
I found the overall concept of this book very clever and I was reminded of the works of Neil Gaiman!
I was at first dubious of the dual narrative, but quickly found myself anticipating The Devils interludes that were lyrically written. As well as this, the character of The Devil provided comic relief from a deep subject matter in the form of cynicism and matter of fact attitude which I really enjoyed. As this was quite a short read I felt it lacked depth in places (especially due to centring on the subject of abuse). The first section of this book felt slightly rushed and as a result I did find it hard to follow at times due to the storyline jumping around, however the short chapters really added the the pace and made me want to keep reading.
The nature of this book consistantly foreshadows ominous future events which means it is at times predictable, though I felt it provided some great twists that I didn't anticipate. Perdie as a character is often infuriating in her choices (just when you think things might work out for the better..) but even the Narrator points this out, so is clearly intentional.
I found the overall concept of this book very clever and I was reminded of the works of Neil Gaiman!
July 23, 2020
I didn’t quite ‘get’ this book. The cover and title had led me to expect a comedy but there was nothing funny about this tale of domestic abuse, interspersed with the ‘sinister’ ramblings of the devil, Ella.
The domestic violence storyline is uncomfortably realistic and it does give a twist to the idea that, as a mother, you’re ‘damned if you do, damned if you don’t’.
I quite enjoyed the pivotal moment when the devil became flesh and appeared to the protagonist, Perdie, at her darkest moment. But I just didn’t believe that at that terrible time, Perdie would look back and think that leaving her husband had been the catalyst that had led to it.
Although the devil is verbose, she’s not particularly scary; in fact, I wasn’t really sure of her agenda. There didn’t really seem to be any purpose in Ella’s character being there, and, overall, that made the book beyond redemption.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for this ARC.
The domestic violence storyline is uncomfortably realistic and it does give a twist to the idea that, as a mother, you’re ‘damned if you do, damned if you don’t’.
I quite enjoyed the pivotal moment when the devil became flesh and appeared to the protagonist, Perdie, at her darkest moment. But I just didn’t believe that at that terrible time, Perdie would look back and think that leaving her husband had been the catalyst that had led to it.
Although the devil is verbose, she’s not particularly scary; in fact, I wasn’t really sure of her agenda. There didn’t really seem to be any purpose in Ella’s character being there, and, overall, that made the book beyond redemption.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for this ARC.
May 29, 2020
This novel takes you on a journey with Perdie, who is a mother of 3, and she is forced to make a decision between the (perceived) mental or the (actual) physical wellbeing of her children. She feels she made the right choice given the circumstances she was given. But that's the thing about choices once they are made you must live with the consequences… or do you?!
This novel is an extremely well written, quick little drive down the paths that we choose in life. About the love, despair and thought that is the background of those great decisions and how easily you can start to question yourself when times get tough.. and like with any good read they always do!
I have read many "cringe" worthy books, books with intensely dark subject matter but Windwalker brings such humanity and care to her characters that some of the scenes laid out upon these pages were extremely hard for me to read. That being said you have been warned if domestic abuse is a deal breaker for you, you may want to sit this one aside.
If you can continue past the moments that make your soul shutter, this novel is an enormously powerful and thought provoking one, I do wish it was a little longer and went into a deeper study of some of the more interesting characters but even still this one is not to be missed.
Thank you Netgallery for an advanced copy!!
This novel is an extremely well written, quick little drive down the paths that we choose in life. About the love, despair and thought that is the background of those great decisions and how easily you can start to question yourself when times get tough.. and like with any good read they always do!
I have read many "cringe" worthy books, books with intensely dark subject matter but Windwalker brings such humanity and care to her characters that some of the scenes laid out upon these pages were extremely hard for me to read. That being said you have been warned if domestic abuse is a deal breaker for you, you may want to sit this one aside.
If you can continue past the moments that make your soul shutter, this novel is an enormously powerful and thought provoking one, I do wish it was a little longer and went into a deeper study of some of the more interesting characters but even still this one is not to be missed.
Thank you Netgallery for an advanced copy!!
July 21, 2020
Perdie is in an abusive relationship, she decides to flee to save her children. Their lives slowly get back on track until deadly accident which leaves Perdie desperate and begging for a different outcome. But just how desperate is she? Enough to make a deal with the devil?
I have some real mixed feelings on this one! And I think the reason for this is I was expecting a horror book with the devil manipulating actions and causing chaos. However, this was more a domestic 'horror' following one family. This was quite a thrilling read and I loved the jumping narrative and how we got to see both the outcomes play out. This even made me question my own thoughts when it comes to wondering 'what if'..
However, I really didn't like the Ella's (or the Devils) narrative. I found it quite basic and may be even a bit childish? It was good at building suspense though!
Overall, definitely worth a read and a really interesting concept! The writing style is great and paced really well. I would definitely read more from the author.
Thank you to Netgalley and Agora Books for providing me a copy to read!
I have some real mixed feelings on this one! And I think the reason for this is I was expecting a horror book with the devil manipulating actions and causing chaos. However, this was more a domestic 'horror' following one family. This was quite a thrilling read and I loved the jumping narrative and how we got to see both the outcomes play out. This even made me question my own thoughts when it comes to wondering 'what if'..
However, I really didn't like the Ella's (or the Devils) narrative. I found it quite basic and may be even a bit childish? It was good at building suspense though!
Overall, definitely worth a read and a really interesting concept! The writing style is great and paced really well. I would definitely read more from the author.
Thank you to Netgalley and Agora Books for providing me a copy to read!
July 19, 2020
Before I start I want to say that this book contains a lot of trigger warnings from abuse (physical and emotional), death and grief.
This book was told in a format I didn’t truly expect but I found myself absolutely captivated by the multiple points of view it was told from. Perdie is such an amazing character and I instantly connected with her and rooted for her throughout the book!
The idea that you have paths in life and wondering if you had chosen the other path would life had been different is something I think about all the time. In this book Perdie is struck by the thought that if she had stayed would things have been different? Would her children be happier?
I also liked the role the devil played in this book and found their sections really interesting to read, however at times they felt like they were too long and I just wanted to know more about Perdie and the children.
Idle Hands is a beautifully written but incredibly emotional read that had me in tears. This book is heart-wrenching and its portrayal of abuse was heart-breaking. It’s a hard hitting book that if it hadn’t been an e-arc I think I would have put down because of my current state of mind. However, I’m glad I powered through!
Thank you to NetGalley and Agora book for providing me with a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
This book was told in a format I didn’t truly expect but I found myself absolutely captivated by the multiple points of view it was told from. Perdie is such an amazing character and I instantly connected with her and rooted for her throughout the book!
The idea that you have paths in life and wondering if you had chosen the other path would life had been different is something I think about all the time. In this book Perdie is struck by the thought that if she had stayed would things have been different? Would her children be happier?
I also liked the role the devil played in this book and found their sections really interesting to read, however at times they felt like they were too long and I just wanted to know more about Perdie and the children.
Idle Hands is a beautifully written but incredibly emotional read that had me in tears. This book is heart-wrenching and its portrayal of abuse was heart-breaking. It’s a hard hitting book that if it hadn’t been an e-arc I think I would have put down because of my current state of mind. However, I’m glad I powered through!
Thank you to NetGalley and Agora book for providing me with a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
July 6, 2020
Idle Hands is undoubtedly going to take the Woman’s Literature genre by storm.
Not only is the cover a subtle mix of color and spook (the nails on that shadowed hand certainly provide a curiosity that belays the cheerful colors!) but there is certainly enough story contained in the pages to make anyone sit up and take notice of Cassondra Windwalker.
Idle Hands is a novel about Perdie, an abused wife who has put up with her husband's emotional and physical violence for too long. When he threatens to bring that same violence to her children, Perdie says no more, and leaves him. But in doing so and the life she leads after, Perdie has to grapple with questions fundamental for any person making life altering decisions: did I do the right thing? what even is the right thing?
The answer, as the novel goes into, is complicated. Oftentimes “right” and “wrong” are arbitrary categories and in reality, all we really have are forkroads and what ifs. However, it’s how we choose to look back on those that can give us both the most pain and the most satisfaction.
A big bright spot in the book is the narration-- not of Perdie, which is who you’d assume-- but of Ella, the literal devil. In a world where many adult fiction books detail domestic violence, I don’t think I’ve ever read a book who’s narrator was an omniscient devil who loves to wax poetic about human morality. Ella’s perspective, as the story moved forward, provided both a deeper insight to Perdie’s character and the human condition, and some needed levity.
This book is heavy; there is no doubt about that! But it brings to mind so many questions and philosophies to the forefront of our mind; questions of choice and morality, of regret, of satisfaction and content. The book itself seems a little long, especially in the middle, but by the final ¾ of the book, you simply can’t turn the pages fast enough.
The writing is raw, the emotions are raw, and I found myself sitting in silence for a hot minute contemplating the ending and the choice Perdie made. Which I think is exactly what Windwalker was aiming for at her conclusion of the story.
4 of 5.
** Thank you to NeGalley for providing an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
Instagram post (live on 7/10): https://www.instagram.com/chillwithji...
Review Blog Post (live on 7/10): https://chill-with-jill.com/
Not only is the cover a subtle mix of color and spook (the nails on that shadowed hand certainly provide a curiosity that belays the cheerful colors!) but there is certainly enough story contained in the pages to make anyone sit up and take notice of Cassondra Windwalker.
Idle Hands is a novel about Perdie, an abused wife who has put up with her husband's emotional and physical violence for too long. When he threatens to bring that same violence to her children, Perdie says no more, and leaves him. But in doing so and the life she leads after, Perdie has to grapple with questions fundamental for any person making life altering decisions: did I do the right thing? what even is the right thing?
The answer, as the novel goes into, is complicated. Oftentimes “right” and “wrong” are arbitrary categories and in reality, all we really have are forkroads and what ifs. However, it’s how we choose to look back on those that can give us both the most pain and the most satisfaction.
A big bright spot in the book is the narration-- not of Perdie, which is who you’d assume-- but of Ella, the literal devil. In a world where many adult fiction books detail domestic violence, I don’t think I’ve ever read a book who’s narrator was an omniscient devil who loves to wax poetic about human morality. Ella’s perspective, as the story moved forward, provided both a deeper insight to Perdie’s character and the human condition, and some needed levity.
This book is heavy; there is no doubt about that! But it brings to mind so many questions and philosophies to the forefront of our mind; questions of choice and morality, of regret, of satisfaction and content. The book itself seems a little long, especially in the middle, but by the final ¾ of the book, you simply can’t turn the pages fast enough.
The writing is raw, the emotions are raw, and I found myself sitting in silence for a hot minute contemplating the ending and the choice Perdie made. Which I think is exactly what Windwalker was aiming for at her conclusion of the story.
4 of 5.
** Thank you to NeGalley for providing an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
Instagram post (live on 7/10): https://www.instagram.com/chillwithji...
Review Blog Post (live on 7/10): https://chill-with-jill.com/
August 10, 2020
Perdie and her abusive husband, Matt, have three children - Hannah, Rachel and Tad. She decides to leave Matt, fearing that he will turn violent towards Tad, so they flee. It wasn't an easy choice for Perdie - staying with Matt and putting up with his tyrannical behaviour so her children might have a better start in life, or leaving, meaning her children would be facing potential poverty living as a single parent family. So Ella, the adversary (aka the Devil), enters stage left and watches from the sidelines, offering insights into Perdie's choices. Years later, tragedy strikes, and Perdie is left wondering if the choice she made to leave led to this moment.
I found this highly original, subtle tale really compelling. Although Perdie's story was engaging, it was Ella's perceptions that were the most engrossing. Instead of being repulsed by her, she was charismatic and bewitching, frequently offering some thoughtful pearls of wisdom. Mesmerised from the first chapter, I read this in one sitting. Idle Hands is haunting, heartrending and utterly brilliant!
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Agora Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
I found this highly original, subtle tale really compelling. Although Perdie's story was engaging, it was Ella's perceptions that were the most engrossing. Instead of being repulsed by her, she was charismatic and bewitching, frequently offering some thoughtful pearls of wisdom. Mesmerised from the first chapter, I read this in one sitting. Idle Hands is haunting, heartrending and utterly brilliant!
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Agora Books via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
July 6, 2020
4.5 Rounding Up
AHHH BUY THIS BOOK!
I'll admit, when I started Idle Hands, I was not expecting much. I was very pleasantly surprised.
Idle Hands follows Perdie and her three children as they fight to get out from underneath the thumb of an abusive husband/father. Enter Ella (aka the devil). Ella's goal is less to steer and more to nudge you down the path to destruction by presenting options (and making that "what if" possible).
“I’m not the teacher. I’m the test. I have nothing to teach you. No judgment to hand down”
I thoroughly enjoyed this and would definitely purchase a copy for my bookshelf! The only drawback to Idle Hands was that I didn't feel like Hannah had the space to connect fully with the reader.
Thank you to NetGalley and Agora Books for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Mark your calendars for July 23rd for the release!
AHHH BUY THIS BOOK!
I'll admit, when I started Idle Hands, I was not expecting much. I was very pleasantly surprised.
Idle Hands follows Perdie and her three children as they fight to get out from underneath the thumb of an abusive husband/father. Enter Ella (aka the devil). Ella's goal is less to steer and more to nudge you down the path to destruction by presenting options (and making that "what if" possible).
“I’m not the teacher. I’m the test. I have nothing to teach you. No judgment to hand down”
I thoroughly enjoyed this and would definitely purchase a copy for my bookshelf! The only drawback to Idle Hands was that I didn't feel like Hannah had the space to connect fully with the reader.
Thank you to NetGalley and Agora Books for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Mark your calendars for July 23rd for the release!
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