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Cuts Both Ways
A sharp and funny YA love story that explores themes of race, class and the complexities of growing up as a black British teen, from Sunday Times best-selling author Candice Brathwaite, author of I Am Not Your Baby Mother.
London is all Cynthia knows, so when her parents abruptly uproot the family after a traumatic incident, to a place where there is only one bus an hour and the faint smell of horse manure continuously permeates the air, it's a culture shock, to say the least. As is transitioning to a private school.
At her new school, Cynthia is one of the only black students. Goofy Thomas, her white lab partner, immediately takes her under his wing. He's kind and sweet, and her parents are pleased - someone like Thomas will be good for her 'future prospects'.
As much as Cynthia likes Thomas though, she can't help noticing Isaac, the only other black student in her year. He is aloof and doesn't seem to like her, but there's something about him she cannot quite get enough of...
But when it turns out both boys have been keeping secrets from her, secrets that link back to the life Cynthia thought she had left behind in London, she realises that not everything is as it seems.
Will Cynthia be able to forgive the lies and follow her heart?
An exploration of race, class, love and the complexities of growing up as a black British teen, from bestselling author Candice Brathwaite.
London is all Cynthia knows, so when her parents abruptly uproot the family after a traumatic incident, to a place where there is only one bus an hour and the faint smell of horse manure continuously permeates the air, it's a culture shock, to say the least. As is transitioning to a private school.
At her new school, Cynthia is one of the only black students. Goofy Thomas, her white lab partner, immediately takes her under his wing. He's kind and sweet, and her parents are pleased - someone like Thomas will be good for her 'future prospects'.
As much as Cynthia likes Thomas though, she can't help noticing Isaac, the only other black student in her year. He is aloof and doesn't seem to like her, but there's something about him she cannot quite get enough of...
But when it turns out both boys have been keeping secrets from her, secrets that link back to the life Cynthia thought she had left behind in London, she realises that not everything is as it seems.
Will Cynthia be able to forgive the lies and follow her heart?
An exploration of race, class, love and the complexities of growing up as a black British teen, from bestselling author Candice Brathwaite.
320 pages, Paperback
Published August 4, 2022
27 people are currently reading
1288 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews
July 19, 2022
I'm a big fan of Candice Brathwaite and her writing so I had high hopes for this.
However I feel super disappointed by this book.
I feel like this book just had zero plot. Everything that happened could have happened in 100 pages. Also, the big 'reveal' towards the end of the book really did not come out of the blue. Knew it was coming. Wasn't a shock.
I did enjoy the characters, and feel it's more of a character exploration than big on plot.
Didn't enjoy this book and it really pains me to say it because I love Candice Brathwaite.
However I feel super disappointed by this book.
I feel like this book just had zero plot. Everything that happened could have happened in 100 pages. Also, the big 'reveal' towards the end of the book really did not come out of the blue. Knew it was coming. Wasn't a shock.
I did enjoy the characters, and feel it's more of a character exploration than big on plot.
Didn't enjoy this book and it really pains me to say it because I love Candice Brathwaite.
September 5, 2022
NOW YOU KNOW I WAS FINNA GIVE THIS 5 STARS! Candice did her thinggg!!! i’m feeling 50 different emotions right now, it’s all too much to comprehend. my heart is aching so much. the last few pages were something else. i was low-key expecting it but i was really wishing it wasn’t true 😞😞.
this book was so well written and it was just so easy to get into. continuously throughout the book i found myself laughing out loud, due to the dialogue being so familiar to me, it was just funny actually seeing it written in a book🤣. this book truly felt like home, in all aspects, friendships, school, etc. especially her friendship with Jadell, they just had me cracking up the whole way through! Jadell went through some tribulations of her own, and it was sad that she ended up on that path, but was able to get support from Cyn nonetheless.
Cyn herself did go through a lot for such a young person, and she learnt some things along the way. however the connection that was built between her and Isaac was unmatched. it just felt RIGHT. hence when it all went down, my feelings were shattered. it’s upsetting that it had to end that way for them both, but really what was he thinking??? Thomas was simply doing all of that out of spite. it was all just crazy.
but i’d say in a sense i’m also hurt about her brother, despite being involved in all that, and him being well off - no one deserves what he went through. i never thought he’d be involved in such activities, but it’s why Candice put that in there, it could be anyone and happen to anyone. there was so much life ahead of him :(
to also know that Cyn undeniably has feelings for Isaac still is heart wrenching, but it’s only natural for her to feel that way, despite the information that was made known to her.
all in all, this book really highlights just one of the many realities that not only take place in London but in the country as a whole. it’s defiantly a serious conversation, and i feel that everyone should read this book, it was entertaining but very moving and insightful! this book is deffo in my top 5’s for this year!!! i hope Candice can give us more of this <3
this book was so well written and it was just so easy to get into. continuously throughout the book i found myself laughing out loud, due to the dialogue being so familiar to me, it was just funny actually seeing it written in a book🤣. this book truly felt like home, in all aspects, friendships, school, etc. especially her friendship with Jadell, they just had me cracking up the whole way through! Jadell went through some tribulations of her own, and it was sad that she ended up on that path, but was able to get support from Cyn nonetheless.
Cyn herself did go through a lot for such a young person, and she learnt some things along the way. however the connection that was built between her and Isaac was unmatched. it just felt RIGHT. hence when it all went down, my feelings were shattered. it’s upsetting that it had to end that way for them both, but really what was he thinking??? Thomas was simply doing all of that out of spite. it was all just crazy.
but i’d say in a sense i’m also hurt about her brother, despite being involved in all that, and him being well off - no one deserves what he went through. i never thought he’d be involved in such activities, but it’s why Candice put that in there, it could be anyone and happen to anyone. there was so much life ahead of him :(
to also know that Cyn undeniably has feelings for Isaac still is heart wrenching, but it’s only natural for her to feel that way, despite the information that was made known to her.
all in all, this book really highlights just one of the many realities that not only take place in London but in the country as a whole. it’s defiantly a serious conversation, and i feel that everyone should read this book, it was entertaining but very moving and insightful! this book is deffo in my top 5’s for this year!!! i hope Candice can give us more of this <3
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 4, 2022
Wow Brathwaite wrote a book that I couldn’t put it down it was so good that I adored the beginning to the end and I laughed they’re times I felt for Cynthia this book deals with a sixteen year old Cynthia who moved to a small town in London due to her brother Mike being mudered through the event a lot in her life as changed even more when she meets two boys at her new school called Thomas and Issac but Thomas never felt comfortable around his adopted brother because of some things he did he wanted to admit them to Cyn but she was too much in love with Isaac that she didn’t follow Thomas within anything but I believed Thomas was a good boy but Issac wasn’t…
I loved this book a lot it was so good and it tackled a lot of important topics that kids don’t know about especially in the UK due to knife crime is on the rise this book expresses how much young black boys and girls need to read this book to get knowledge on how young Black Death is going on since Stephen Lawerence has died nothing changed we’re still facing the same thing just a different aim people approach now to these things because of social media and the fights sometimes young boys have especially when it’s in the teenage world of them having a first girlfriend and things don’t go the way they want creates sadly one loosing a life after that so this book need to be read to your sons and daughters because we need more discussions about these incidents happening so often and much
I can’t wait for a sequel of her for a debut she nailed it on the head
I loved this book a lot it was so good and it tackled a lot of important topics that kids don’t know about especially in the UK due to knife crime is on the rise this book expresses how much young black boys and girls need to read this book to get knowledge on how young Black Death is going on since Stephen Lawerence has died nothing changed we’re still facing the same thing just a different aim people approach now to these things because of social media and the fights sometimes young boys have especially when it’s in the teenage world of them having a first girlfriend and things don’t go the way they want creates sadly one loosing a life after that so this book need to be read to your sons and daughters because we need more discussions about these incidents happening so often and much
I can’t wait for a sequel of her for a debut she nailed it on the head
January 25, 2023
It ended kinda abruptly but the rest of the book was good and was mostly a good representation of the themes explored
May 26, 2023
I have decided to stop saying that I don’t like reading YA because this is the second one I have really enjoyed in as many months.
Really enjoyed reading this. The storyline, the characters and writing style. Everything was top notch.
Set in London and a small town outside London, this story follows a young Black girl and her family as they deal with the aftermath of a devastating event.
This is the second time I’m reading about Joint Enterprise law in fiction. I love learning new things through fiction.
I also loved the celebration of black beauty through the description of the characters.
If you’ve ever heard Candice Brathwaite speak, either on IG Lives, podcasts or in person, you know that 2 minutes does not pass without her dropping gems 💎 there are gems all over in this book as well.
Never has a book title made more sense.
Really enjoyed reading this. The storyline, the characters and writing style. Everything was top notch.
Set in London and a small town outside London, this story follows a young Black girl and her family as they deal with the aftermath of a devastating event.
This is the second time I’m reading about Joint Enterprise law in fiction. I love learning new things through fiction.
I also loved the celebration of black beauty through the description of the characters.
If you’ve ever heard Candice Brathwaite speak, either on IG Lives, podcasts or in person, you know that 2 minutes does not pass without her dropping gems 💎 there are gems all over in this book as well.
Never has a book title made more sense.
February 13, 2024
I really enjoyed this book! Some of the themes resonated with me personally, which made my heart both warm and ache. This books is layered; it’s not just a story about young love but touches on acceptance, grief, race, class, sisterhood and much more. I admire that the writer also raised awareness surrounding knife crime and its complexities. It highlights that things are never black and white. Cynthia’s humour is similar to mine and made me giggle. I would give 5 but I felt like at some points I could feel that the dialogue between the youth was written by someone that wasn’t as youthful as them. However, I still love Candice’s sharp but emotional writing style. Candice, get to work because I’m ready for the next one!
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🌟🌟🌟🌟
May 7, 2024
can't remember too much cl but it was good but it felt kinda weird bc it was full of slang ygm
June 4, 2024
Not all happy endings are what they seem. This book had a lot to unpack and I got some education along the way.
June 13, 2024
I don’t think the description of this book is what I expected but I loved it regardless.
Cynthia has moved to an all white neighbourhood and school and finds solace in the only other black boy Isaac who is holding many secrets. Whilst Thomas claims he’s trying to help Cynthia, it lay with mixed intentions.
I wasn’t expecting the ending and was almost a bit disappointed in it as that’s not how I wanted the book to end.
Cynthia has moved to an all white neighbourhood and school and finds solace in the only other black boy Isaac who is holding many secrets. Whilst Thomas claims he’s trying to help Cynthia, it lay with mixed intentions.
I wasn’t expecting the ending and was almost a bit disappointed in it as that’s not how I wanted the book to end.
October 2, 2022
Wow. What a story!
As a Nigerian migrant to the UK at a young age - a time when stories similar to this were not uncommon - I could picture most of the details in this story as I read each page. Having grown up in north London, my knowledge of people falling into ‘road’ life is not quite the same as Cyn’s and Isaac’s knowledge - and experience - of it. But I vividly remember girls in my school who would talk of boyfriends involved in certain activities. Closer to home, I can count on one hand the number of girls I knew who fell pregnant in year 10 or year 11 (and younger girls in fact). I also remember school-run talks and events about the dangers of knife crime. That knife crime continues to rise year on year is a sad thing. But how many people think about the loved ones and families left to deal with the aftermath of a senseless loss of life in the streets?
Through ‘Cuts Both Ways’, Candice has captured the reality of many young people in London and other cities marred by gun and knife crime. I was drawn into a world I could only imagine before reading this story.
Candice captured the story of Cyn’s mum and dad beautifully - at times I was infuriated by Cyn’s dad but he was also grieving. I loved the grace Candice gave both parents and how she handled the cultural differences that have a funny way of playing out when a family is dealing with stronger forces than they are used to.
This book will stay with me for a while. I would be interested in learning about other fiction books which capture the challenges young Black people in London face in relation to knife and gun crime. Also, I strongly support this being turned into a TV series.
Four stars because of some minor typos that I felt should have been picked up. *smirk*
As a Nigerian migrant to the UK at a young age - a time when stories similar to this were not uncommon - I could picture most of the details in this story as I read each page. Having grown up in north London, my knowledge of people falling into ‘road’ life is not quite the same as Cyn’s and Isaac’s knowledge - and experience - of it. But I vividly remember girls in my school who would talk of boyfriends involved in certain activities. Closer to home, I can count on one hand the number of girls I knew who fell pregnant in year 10 or year 11 (and younger girls in fact). I also remember school-run talks and events about the dangers of knife crime. That knife crime continues to rise year on year is a sad thing. But how many people think about the loved ones and families left to deal with the aftermath of a senseless loss of life in the streets?
Through ‘Cuts Both Ways’, Candice has captured the reality of many young people in London and other cities marred by gun and knife crime. I was drawn into a world I could only imagine before reading this story.
Candice captured the story of Cyn’s mum and dad beautifully - at times I was infuriated by Cyn’s dad but he was also grieving. I loved the grace Candice gave both parents and how she handled the cultural differences that have a funny way of playing out when a family is dealing with stronger forces than they are used to.
This book will stay with me for a while. I would be interested in learning about other fiction books which capture the challenges young Black people in London face in relation to knife and gun crime. Also, I strongly support this being turned into a TV series.
Four stars because of some minor typos that I felt should have been picked up. *smirk*
June 16, 2023
Cuts Both Ways tells the story of Cynthia- a 16-year-old from South London who just moved to Buckinghamshire with her parents following the tragic loss of her brother. What is meant to be a fresh start for Cynthia leads to a 'fish out of water scenario in which she starts at a posh new school as one of the only black students. There she meets Issac, another black student who also comes from South London and shares the same sentiment for home as she does.
I thought this book had the potential to be a good book, but instead, it was underwhelming and poorly written. I am no stranger to Candice Brathwaite’s writing; I'm certainly not a fan, but I do believe she has produced much better work than this without sounding too rude. I do not think fictional writing is for everyone. The thing that causes a lot of Young Adult books to be unsuccessful is that people write for an audience that they don’t already have. Unless you're well-established like John Green, you have to develop your style of writing before trying to put yourself in a box for a specific genre. Cuts Both Ways did a poor job of targeting a particular audience.
The characters had so much potential, especially our main characters, Cynthia and Issac, but they were underdeveloped and rushed. Their interaction and inner thoughts throughout the book were very amateur and cringe-worthy. It was so evident that this book was written by someone much, much older with not much sense of modern youthfulness and their interaction.
The plot wasn't believable and felt rushed. A pondering question I have upon finishing this novel... What was the message? What can people gain from reading this?
I wouldn't recommend this book; read a book written by a real writer.
I thought this book had the potential to be a good book, but instead, it was underwhelming and poorly written. I am no stranger to Candice Brathwaite’s writing; I'm certainly not a fan, but I do believe she has produced much better work than this without sounding too rude. I do not think fictional writing is for everyone. The thing that causes a lot of Young Adult books to be unsuccessful is that people write for an audience that they don’t already have. Unless you're well-established like John Green, you have to develop your style of writing before trying to put yourself in a box for a specific genre. Cuts Both Ways did a poor job of targeting a particular audience.
The characters had so much potential, especially our main characters, Cynthia and Issac, but they were underdeveloped and rushed. Their interaction and inner thoughts throughout the book were very amateur and cringe-worthy. It was so evident that this book was written by someone much, much older with not much sense of modern youthfulness and their interaction.
The plot wasn't believable and felt rushed. A pondering question I have upon finishing this novel... What was the message? What can people gain from reading this?
I wouldn't recommend this book; read a book written by a real writer.
June 29, 2024
It was my first book of this kind (teenager/love/drama) and I have been really invested on it, it's genuinely surprised me. The ending came way quicker than I expected but I don't mind it.
It's also my first racialized book and written by a black woman, and it has opened my eyes in many ways, I hope I can read more of her work soon.
It's also my first racialized book and written by a black woman, and it has opened my eyes in many ways, I hope I can read more of her work soon.
November 13, 2025
One of my FAVOURITE (if not my favourite) read of this year!
Chef’s kiss!
Wonderfully crafted characters, scenarios and settings that felt true- to life and to the characters themselves.
It’s also so lovely to read a romantic YA, with a black girl being loved softly and well. A sweet but also poignant read.
I loved!
Chef’s kiss!
Wonderfully crafted characters, scenarios and settings that felt true- to life and to the characters themselves.
It’s also so lovely to read a romantic YA, with a black girl being loved softly and well. A sweet but also poignant read.
I loved!
March 20, 2024
I’ll always have a special place in my heart for Black British stories ❤️ this left me sad but I think in a good way
November 1, 2022
The plot was just not giving. And btw I don’t believe that they love each other at all.
July 13, 2022
Cuts Both Ways tells the story of Cynthia—a 16-year-old from North London—who just moved to Buckinghamshire with her parents following the tragic loss of her brother. What is meant to be a fresh start for Cynthia leads to a 'fish out of water' scenario in which she starts at a posh new school as one of the only black students.
There she is met with microagressions straight away—from teachers who do not bother learning to pronounce her name, to students gossiping about 'gangs killing each other in London' and desribing her natural afro hair as 'unkempt'. These serve as a stark reminder of the casual prejudices that still linger among today's society.
As the story progresses, Cynthia grows closer to two brothers—one white and privileged, the other black and adopted—who help her adjust to her new environment. Whilst there are hints of a rivalry brewing between the brothers, their relationship and family dynamics could have been explored more, especially with the context of their hugely different childhoods. Nevertheless, conflict soon arises when feelings begin to develop and Cynthia is caught up between the brothers.
A lot of teenagers, especially black girls, will be able to relate to Cynthia, who narrates the story from her first-person perspective. Brathwaite is a natural at tapping into a narrative voice that is both authentic and accessible to readers of all ages, while exploring themes of class, race, and trauma. Along the way, Cynthia must learn to grapple with her grief whilst navigating parental expectations and her desire to be a normal teenager.
Many thanks to Hachette Children's Group and NetGalley for providing me with a Digital Review Copy.
Cuts Both Ways is out on 4th August 2022.
There she is met with microagressions straight away—from teachers who do not bother learning to pronounce her name, to students gossiping about 'gangs killing each other in London' and desribing her natural afro hair as 'unkempt'. These serve as a stark reminder of the casual prejudices that still linger among today's society.
As the story progresses, Cynthia grows closer to two brothers—one white and privileged, the other black and adopted—who help her adjust to her new environment. Whilst there are hints of a rivalry brewing between the brothers, their relationship and family dynamics could have been explored more, especially with the context of their hugely different childhoods. Nevertheless, conflict soon arises when feelings begin to develop and Cynthia is caught up between the brothers.
A lot of teenagers, especially black girls, will be able to relate to Cynthia, who narrates the story from her first-person perspective. Brathwaite is a natural at tapping into a narrative voice that is both authentic and accessible to readers of all ages, while exploring themes of class, race, and trauma. Along the way, Cynthia must learn to grapple with her grief whilst navigating parental expectations and her desire to be a normal teenager.
Many thanks to Hachette Children's Group and NetGalley for providing me with a Digital Review Copy.
Cuts Both Ways is out on 4th August 2022.
April 14, 2023
Cuts Both Ways by Candice Brathwaite. This book tells the story of a family affected by a tragedy of knife crime. Sixteen year-old Cynthia‘s brother Mike was murdered in London and her parents make the decision to move away to a small town outside of London. She finds herself unexpectedly intertwined between two brothers - Thomas, head boy and Isaac, his adopted Black brother. Cynthia wants to follow her own heart and balance her own feelings with the pressure from her parents. Both boys have an interest in her however she decides to stick with Isaac. However the haunting presence of a past she wishes she could forget is always on her mind. A good book overall however I think there could have been more of a plot.
Although the book did raise awareness and tackle real issues we face in society of knife crime. There has always been knife crime however due to media reporting it seems to be a common occurrence amongst youngsters. The murder of Stephen Lawrence in 1993 and the many other knife crime incidents since then, some of which don’t even get reported put into perspective how serious knife crime is and that awareness needs to be raised throughout communities to help bring this to an end. Knife crime is no joke - youngsters thinking that carrying weapons around gives them some sort of reputation and status. Only for five minutes - the next 30 years you‘ll be rotting in jail where nobody could care less about you. Carrying weapons around and causing intentional harm to others is not the way to be. Drugs, violence and weapons is not the life to live. The devastation caused to families after a knife crime incident has a massive ripple effect. Put down knifes !!!
Although the book did raise awareness and tackle real issues we face in society of knife crime. There has always been knife crime however due to media reporting it seems to be a common occurrence amongst youngsters. The murder of Stephen Lawrence in 1993 and the many other knife crime incidents since then, some of which don’t even get reported put into perspective how serious knife crime is and that awareness needs to be raised throughout communities to help bring this to an end. Knife crime is no joke - youngsters thinking that carrying weapons around gives them some sort of reputation and status. Only for five minutes - the next 30 years you‘ll be rotting in jail where nobody could care less about you. Carrying weapons around and causing intentional harm to others is not the way to be. Drugs, violence and weapons is not the life to live. The devastation caused to families after a knife crime incident has a massive ripple effect. Put down knifes !!!
January 6, 2023
I really enjoyed this read, it was engaging and had me hooked right from the start. The writing style is perfect for a YA read but also perfect for adults that love reading YA like me.
The characters were well developed and I became invested quickly in some of them such as Cyn, her mother, Jadell and Isaac,whereas, others such as Thomas, Molly and Cyn's dad Tunde made my skin crawl, although Tunde redeemed himself towards the end of the book.
This was a sharp and funny fascinating look at what it is to be a black teenager in Britain today and looked at issues such as race, identity and who someone is in themselves, their school, their surroundings and their family, ethnicity and class. It also does a great job of talking about knife crime and the effects this has not only personally but culturally too but it is down subtley and really well.
There were some parts of the book that really made me cringe although this was a good thing as that is exactly what the author was going for in my opinion. The first was when Cyn is at a party hosted by the Goddards and another guest is rude to her for being on her mobile phone because she automatically assumes that she is there to work and so goes to call out "the help".
Another moment that made me cringe is when Thomas the white upper class foster brother of Isacc is interested in a date with Cyn and so asks her dad if he can take her out on a date - WHILST SHE IS STOOD RIGHT THERE - boy bye this is not the 1850s.
I really enjoyed it and it was way more though provoking than I thought it would be
The characters were well developed and I became invested quickly in some of them such as Cyn, her mother, Jadell and Isaac,whereas, others such as Thomas, Molly and Cyn's dad Tunde made my skin crawl, although Tunde redeemed himself towards the end of the book.
This was a sharp and funny fascinating look at what it is to be a black teenager in Britain today and looked at issues such as race, identity and who someone is in themselves, their school, their surroundings and their family, ethnicity and class. It also does a great job of talking about knife crime and the effects this has not only personally but culturally too but it is down subtley and really well.
There were some parts of the book that really made me cringe although this was a good thing as that is exactly what the author was going for in my opinion. The first was when Cyn is at a party hosted by the Goddards and another guest is rude to her for being on her mobile phone because she automatically assumes that she is there to work and so goes to call out "the help".
Another moment that made me cringe is when Thomas the white upper class foster brother of Isacc is interested in a date with Cyn and so asks her dad if he can take her out on a date - WHILST SHE IS STOOD RIGHT THERE - boy bye this is not the 1850s.
I really enjoyed it and it was way more though provoking than I thought it would be
February 11, 2023
Cuts Both Ways by Candice Brathwaite
This is my second time exposing myself to the culture of BPOC through books. The first was Ace of Spades but in Cuts Both Ways, I get to travel deeply in their culture.
The premise of this book is about a young girl named Cynthia Adegoke, who has to transfer to an elite school after her family experienced a traumatic incidents back in London. At the new school she met two brothers, Thomas and Isaac. Even though both of the brothers shared the same last name but they are not blood related. Cynthia can’t help herself to fall for one of the brother. However, one of them is keeping a grave secret from Cynthia. A secret that may jeopardise their potential relationship.
Although this is obviously a YA romance book but it carries a heavy message about education. Having to be born in a place where gun and knife crime is something that bound to happen to the youngsters, Cynthia’s father is determine to change their future by moving out. Somehow I do agree with her father’s way of thinking that education can change someone’s future.
But I must admit there are certain part of this book is a little bit cringy but I think it was intentional by Brathwaite. I would recommend this book for someone who want to read something different from the normal setting of YA romance book but let me warn you, this book will leave you dumbfounded.
If you love cliffhangers, this book is for you.
Thank you @definitelybooks for this review copy. Extremely enjoyable for a book that give a good representation of the themes explored.
This is my second time exposing myself to the culture of BPOC through books. The first was Ace of Spades but in Cuts Both Ways, I get to travel deeply in their culture.
The premise of this book is about a young girl named Cynthia Adegoke, who has to transfer to an elite school after her family experienced a traumatic incidents back in London. At the new school she met two brothers, Thomas and Isaac. Even though both of the brothers shared the same last name but they are not blood related. Cynthia can’t help herself to fall for one of the brother. However, one of them is keeping a grave secret from Cynthia. A secret that may jeopardise their potential relationship.
Although this is obviously a YA romance book but it carries a heavy message about education. Having to be born in a place where gun and knife crime is something that bound to happen to the youngsters, Cynthia’s father is determine to change their future by moving out. Somehow I do agree with her father’s way of thinking that education can change someone’s future.
But I must admit there are certain part of this book is a little bit cringy but I think it was intentional by Brathwaite. I would recommend this book for someone who want to read something different from the normal setting of YA romance book but let me warn you, this book will leave you dumbfounded.
If you love cliffhangers, this book is for you.
Thank you @definitelybooks for this review copy. Extremely enjoyable for a book that give a good representation of the themes explored.
July 15, 2022
Cuts Both Ways is a riveting mixture of contemporary, romance and mystery that completely captures your mind.
I was not expecting the beautiful depiction of grief at the centre of this story. This is a story about loss, longing and reconciling the person you thought you knew with the reality. Brathwaite has created this really touching and authentic depiction of grief. It is an all-consuming cloud at times, but it also sometimes melts away for a moment. Cynthia is emotionally vulnerable and open in a way that makes it impossible for you to not fall in love with her. Her process of grief is so detailed and realistic, striking a chord with me.
Brathwaite also does not hold back in the searing depiction of classism and racism that defines much of the narrative. The way these hateful ideologies are woven into the very fabric of elite institutions and society is broken apart and carefully depicted. It is shown as an insidious, unconscious force at times and a brazenly hateful show at others. The multiple microaggressions and snide comments thrown towards Cynthia highlight the way this is so normalised within society. Brathwaite challenges them on page, but also lets their impact sit with the reader, confronting the lived experience of so many people.
However, this is also a book focusing on relationships, from familial to romantic to platonic. These are all weighted equally, with considerate exploration and interesting character dynamics. You learn so much through subtle character interactions or minor details in the background of a scene and I adore that attention to detail. This is a fully fleshed-out world. Ultimately, Brathwaite emphasises how your most important relationship is the one you have with yourself, leaving the book with an impactful message of empowerment and self-respect. This is a book that will mean so much to so many readers and deserves every single bit of love.
Cuts Both Ways deserves the world. It is a book that challenges, but ultimately validates and uplifts its readers.
I was not expecting the beautiful depiction of grief at the centre of this story. This is a story about loss, longing and reconciling the person you thought you knew with the reality. Brathwaite has created this really touching and authentic depiction of grief. It is an all-consuming cloud at times, but it also sometimes melts away for a moment. Cynthia is emotionally vulnerable and open in a way that makes it impossible for you to not fall in love with her. Her process of grief is so detailed and realistic, striking a chord with me.
Brathwaite also does not hold back in the searing depiction of classism and racism that defines much of the narrative. The way these hateful ideologies are woven into the very fabric of elite institutions and society is broken apart and carefully depicted. It is shown as an insidious, unconscious force at times and a brazenly hateful show at others. The multiple microaggressions and snide comments thrown towards Cynthia highlight the way this is so normalised within society. Brathwaite challenges them on page, but also lets their impact sit with the reader, confronting the lived experience of so many people.
However, this is also a book focusing on relationships, from familial to romantic to platonic. These are all weighted equally, with considerate exploration and interesting character dynamics. You learn so much through subtle character interactions or minor details in the background of a scene and I adore that attention to detail. This is a fully fleshed-out world. Ultimately, Brathwaite emphasises how your most important relationship is the one you have with yourself, leaving the book with an impactful message of empowerment and self-respect. This is a book that will mean so much to so many readers and deserves every single bit of love.
Cuts Both Ways deserves the world. It is a book that challenges, but ultimately validates and uplifts its readers.
June 9, 2023
I can’t believe I’ve finished this book in under a week! Within a few days, 5 days!! I read this in 5 days! Apart from Heartstopper volumes I think that’s the quicker I have ever read a book!
I really liked this book when I first started it, I was instantly into it which is down to the details in the storytelling. I just feel it’s written so good. It’s just a great written book because I really did feel for Cynthia when she discovers it’s Isaac’s brother is who killed Mike.. Also the details used throughout like how it would always be Cynthia thinking something and then that who she’s with would answer what she’s thinking and she would pick up on that and always say something like “answering my thoughts as if they knew” and then the kissing of teeth throughout, there was more but I can’t think of them.. they were just great i just think it’s such a good book well written.
I feel a bit like some things weren’t disclosed that I wanted to know or that were built up to be a thing like Thomas just excepting that Cyn (see I love her I respect her, I love reading worlds man!) was dating Isaac when he wanted too.. and the ending where she says “and so I began the story” after J finds the money of Mikes… i thought we were going to find out what Mike had that money for.. well maybe we were supposed to know and I just didn’t know what it was from the subtle description of it..
I really liked this book when I first started it, I was instantly into it which is down to the details in the storytelling. I just feel it’s written so good. It’s just a great written book because I really did feel for Cynthia when she discovers it’s Isaac’s brother is who killed Mike.. Also the details used throughout like how it would always be Cynthia thinking something and then that who she’s with would answer what she’s thinking and she would pick up on that and always say something like “answering my thoughts as if they knew” and then the kissing of teeth throughout, there was more but I can’t think of them.. they were just great i just think it’s such a good book well written.
I feel a bit like some things weren’t disclosed that I wanted to know or that were built up to be a thing like Thomas just excepting that Cyn (see I love her I respect her, I love reading worlds man!) was dating Isaac when he wanted too.. and the ending where she says “and so I began the story” after J finds the money of Mikes… i thought we were going to find out what Mike had that money for.. well maybe we were supposed to know and I just didn’t know what it was from the subtle description of it..
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 3, 2022
Having read IANYBM I already had a feel for and liked Candice Brathwaite's writing but admittedly was a little apprehensive about how her style would feel within a fiction novel. However, I needn't have been worried. The way Candice writes has such great pace and energy that you're immediately sucked in and running through the story. With the youthful tone and flare in how this is written, you can really feel Cynthia's personality and attitude coming through. Being a romance reader first and foremost, the cute moments of this first love experience were very cute and had me thinking back to being a 16yo and falling hard and fast.
There is so much within this story and, for me, all of it was done very well. Candice's commentary on class, race, prejudice, racism, growing up black in britain and the stigma of knife crime and gangs are done so well and have you checking your privilege at the door. Along with this, her explorations on grief, relationships and young love make this a well rounded novel and a great first step into fiction for her.
I feel like there are still questions to be answered so would love to see a sequel but I also appreciate and respect the idea that not every story has a happy ending and sometimes we are left without annswers. I would love to see a HEA though 🌚
[ARC provided by the publisher through netgalley]
There is so much within this story and, for me, all of it was done very well. Candice's commentary on class, race, prejudice, racism, growing up black in britain and the stigma of knife crime and gangs are done so well and have you checking your privilege at the door. Along with this, her explorations on grief, relationships and young love make this a well rounded novel and a great first step into fiction for her.
I feel like there are still questions to be answered so would love to see a sequel but I also appreciate and respect the idea that not every story has a happy ending and sometimes we are left without annswers. I would love to see a HEA though 🌚
[ARC provided by the publisher through netgalley]
August 29, 2022
Wow. Where do I even begin with this book. Cuts Both Ways is like an onion. There are layers. On the surface level it is about a boy and a girl who fall in love. On a deeper level it is a Romeo and Juliet tale with a basis in crime. On a deeper level it is about the socio-political and economic values and expectations that the BPOC community face on a daily basis.
It is the story about Cynthia. She is starting a new school and leaving her old life in London behind. The murder of her older brother has had her family moving away from the living memory of the crime but Cynthia struggles when it comes to her new way of life.
In her school she meets a plethora of new people some kind and some not so much. However, it is when she meets brothers Thomas and Isaac that things really start to unravel.
When Cynthia discovers a shocking secret about one of the brothers her whole new life begins to unfold once again. Cynthia is torn between feelings of love and feelings of loyalty.
Cuts Both Ways was a really powerful read and its ending – whilst not ambiguous – certainly allows for more of the story to be told and I really home that Candice Braithwaite turns it into a series.
Cuts Both Ways by Candice Braithwaite is available now.
It is the story about Cynthia. She is starting a new school and leaving her old life in London behind. The murder of her older brother has had her family moving away from the living memory of the crime but Cynthia struggles when it comes to her new way of life.
In her school she meets a plethora of new people some kind and some not so much. However, it is when she meets brothers Thomas and Isaac that things really start to unravel.
When Cynthia discovers a shocking secret about one of the brothers her whole new life begins to unfold once again. Cynthia is torn between feelings of love and feelings of loyalty.
Cuts Both Ways was a really powerful read and its ending – whilst not ambiguous – certainly allows for more of the story to be told and I really home that Candice Braithwaite turns it into a series.
Cuts Both Ways by Candice Braithwaite is available now.
September 25, 2022
Oooofff……where do I even start? This book……chile!!!!!! It did things to me!!
Fam! First off, the execution when it comes to the reality of being a black teen in UK, from south London gets a 5 star alone. I loved the fact that this book was real. It wasn’t a painted over version of reality for commercial purposes. It was authentic. From personalities, behaviours, characters. I found myself nodding, holding my chest, laughing and getting worked up in recognition of how honest it was. I LOVED that. Honestly feel like Cynthia and Jadell are actually walking around doing life.
Now, moving on to the love story.
Fam, it really ain’t black and white. It was deep. Personal. Hard-hitting truth and reality of what it’s like. This book touched me on so many levels. Their love felt authentic and real to me. Someone else getting you on a level no-one else has is something we all want at the end of the day.
Anyways…..I feel like my thoughts are legit all over the place. All in all, I LOVED this book. I rate it HIGHLY and I would recommend this book to ANYONE and EVERYONE.
side note = reading this book has increased my standards. Cuz now, I feel like I need to go back and rate all the other books I’ve read lower 🤣!!!!
Fam! First off, the execution when it comes to the reality of being a black teen in UK, from south London gets a 5 star alone. I loved the fact that this book was real. It wasn’t a painted over version of reality for commercial purposes. It was authentic. From personalities, behaviours, characters. I found myself nodding, holding my chest, laughing and getting worked up in recognition of how honest it was. I LOVED that. Honestly feel like Cynthia and Jadell are actually walking around doing life.
Now, moving on to the love story.
Fam, it really ain’t black and white. It was deep. Personal. Hard-hitting truth and reality of what it’s like. This book touched me on so many levels. Their love felt authentic and real to me. Someone else getting you on a level no-one else has is something we all want at the end of the day.
Anyways…..I feel like my thoughts are legit all over the place. All in all, I LOVED this book. I rate it HIGHLY and I would recommend this book to ANYONE and EVERYONE.
side note = reading this book has increased my standards. Cuz now, I feel like I need to go back and rate all the other books I’ve read lower 🤣!!!!
February 23, 2024
"Cuts Both Ways" by Candice Brathwaite is a refreshing take on love stories, showing that black love doesn't always have to be a dramatic struggle. Cynthia and Isaac, the main characters, feel like real people dealing with real-life stuff, which is a nice change.
The book captures the black British experience authentically. Cynthia and Isaac's journey is relatable, and you can't help but connect with their ups and downs. The story doesn't sugarcoat the messy parts, and I found myself rooting for these characters.
While some might see the twist coming, it doesn't take away from the overall experience. Candice Brathwaite tells the story in a way that keeps you engaged, even if you predict a few things. The characters are genuine, and their struggles resonate, offering a glimpse into life's complexities, especially around expectations and race.
The cover caught my eye, and the relationship between Cynthia and Isaac felt so real, with all its pain and emotions. The ending might not be what you expect, but life doesn't always neatly wrap things up. There are a few unanswered questions, but that's life for you.
"Cuts Both Ways" is a great read if you're into love stories that feel authentic!
The book captures the black British experience authentically. Cynthia and Isaac's journey is relatable, and you can't help but connect with their ups and downs. The story doesn't sugarcoat the messy parts, and I found myself rooting for these characters.
While some might see the twist coming, it doesn't take away from the overall experience. Candice Brathwaite tells the story in a way that keeps you engaged, even if you predict a few things. The characters are genuine, and their struggles resonate, offering a glimpse into life's complexities, especially around expectations and race.
The cover caught my eye, and the relationship between Cynthia and Isaac felt so real, with all its pain and emotions. The ending might not be what you expect, but life doesn't always neatly wrap things up. There are a few unanswered questions, but that's life for you.
"Cuts Both Ways" is a great read if you're into love stories that feel authentic!
March 4, 2024
This book had the potential to be GREAT.
I finished this book in one sitting as I was intrigued to know how it would finish. Unfortunately, the ending was abrupt.
What I liked:
- I liked the characters. On the whole, the characters were interesting and they fit well into the story.
- The plot. I really enjoyed the idea of the story. A Black girl who has the attention of two brothers - one Black, one White.
- The growth of the Dad. Was very nice to read.
What I did not like:
- The ending. The main character runs away from a conversation and the book ends?
- The characters felt like caricatures. The slang and the descriptions were a bit cringe at times. I wish authors would move away from the London stereotype. The idea also that London is so dangerous the characters had to seek refuge somewhere else is a bit disappointing to read. It just felt like another stereotype.
- There were a lot of different themes (e.g grief, race, romance, the law and murder) in the book. I think the book would have been better if the author stuck to one or two.
- It would have been nice for there to be some more development around Thomas. In the end he just turned out to be racist which was kind of disappointing.
Overall, I would recommend this book if you want a light read.
I finished this book in one sitting as I was intrigued to know how it would finish. Unfortunately, the ending was abrupt.
What I liked:
- I liked the characters. On the whole, the characters were interesting and they fit well into the story.
- The plot. I really enjoyed the idea of the story. A Black girl who has the attention of two brothers - one Black, one White.
- The growth of the Dad. Was very nice to read.
What I did not like:
- The ending. The main character runs away from a conversation and the book ends?
- The characters felt like caricatures. The slang and the descriptions were a bit cringe at times. I wish authors would move away from the London stereotype. The idea also that London is so dangerous the characters had to seek refuge somewhere else is a bit disappointing to read. It just felt like another stereotype.
- There were a lot of different themes (e.g grief, race, romance, the law and murder) in the book. I think the book would have been better if the author stuck to one or two.
- It would have been nice for there to be some more development around Thomas. In the end he just turned out to be racist which was kind of disappointing.
Overall, I would recommend this book if you want a light read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 24, 2024
4.75 stars
Another book that I am glad I listened to on audiobook. The language and accents just wouldn’t have been done justice in my brain and it just added a whole other layer to the story. I loved the characters and I honestly had the biggest smile on my face at Cynthia’s joy, even if it was only for fleeting moments.
Now, I don’t want to get into the very complex issue over whether or not pineapple goes on a pizza, but I have a question. When someone orders a “pineapple pizza”, does it have anything else or just pineapple? Obviously it’s got a tomato based sauce and cheese… but nothing else?? That to me is unthinkable.
The blurb made it seem like there was some sort of love triangle between the brothers, but there really isn’t any competition or wonder of who she is going to choose (which I hate anyway so didn’t bother me). I also really love the cover art. It’s very bold and eye catching.
I really hated the ending as, while it wasn’t a cliffhanger, it did leave so much unresolved and definitely wasn’t the HEA I was begging for. Please tell me there’s a second book!!! I MUST KNOW WHAT HAPPENS!!
Genre: YA
Format: Audio
POV: Single FMC
Spice: 0/5
Age suggestion: 15+
Another book that I am glad I listened to on audiobook. The language and accents just wouldn’t have been done justice in my brain and it just added a whole other layer to the story. I loved the characters and I honestly had the biggest smile on my face at Cynthia’s joy, even if it was only for fleeting moments.
Now, I don’t want to get into the very complex issue over whether or not pineapple goes on a pizza, but I have a question. When someone orders a “pineapple pizza”, does it have anything else or just pineapple? Obviously it’s got a tomato based sauce and cheese… but nothing else?? That to me is unthinkable.
The blurb made it seem like there was some sort of love triangle between the brothers, but there really isn’t any competition or wonder of who she is going to choose (which I hate anyway so didn’t bother me). I also really love the cover art. It’s very bold and eye catching.
I really hated the ending as, while it wasn’t a cliffhanger, it did leave so much unresolved and definitely wasn’t the HEA I was begging for. Please tell me there’s a second book!!! I MUST KNOW WHAT HAPPENS!!
Genre: YA
Format: Audio
POV: Single FMC
Spice: 0/5
Age suggestion: 15+
July 19, 2023
Now, whilst I don't want to take away the subject matter from this book, I really feel that this book lacked a plot. Featuring Cynthia and Isaac as the book delves into both of their lives, and watching their characters and relationship develop was sad but lovely. I was really rooting for them until I came upon the "plot twist." Unfortunately, this was less of a shock for me as we spent quite a lot of the book building up to the shock reveal, so it was already revealed without the words being placed on the page.
I loved both characters I just wish there was more of a plot, as this book heavily just felt like a short period of Cynthia's life in which she was trying to come to terms with her brothers death, and if anything the book actually left more questions than answers, so the ending really did bother me.
However I applaud the author for such an important subject matter, and for exploring all the different ways people can grieve and how a lost loved one can affect a family unit, I just felt like there was so much more space for more.
3.5
I loved both characters I just wish there was more of a plot, as this book heavily just felt like a short period of Cynthia's life in which she was trying to come to terms with her brothers death, and if anything the book actually left more questions than answers, so the ending really did bother me.
However I applaud the author for such an important subject matter, and for exploring all the different ways people can grieve and how a lost loved one can affect a family unit, I just felt like there was so much more space for more.
3.5
March 25, 2023
Candice Brathwaite is normally a non-fiction writer and I've read one of her other books so was intrigued to see what this one was about. It's definitely YA which I wasn't expecting!
Overall I enjoyed it and read it in a couple of days. The writing style and slang was easy to follow.
The little twist at the end was shocking but it happened and was over way too quickly and I felt things were left unresolved. I would have liked to find out more about how Cynthia confronted Thomas after the reveal.
Reminders for me
- black teenage boy is stabbed to death in London
- family move out of London to posh area and Cynthia meets Thomas (white) and Isaac (black) who are brothers (Isaac is adopted)
- Cynthia falls for Isaac despite Thomas liking her and warning her to stay away from Isaac
- Isaac tells her a little bit about his background....older brother, mum and dad died
- Cynthia finds out Isaacs brother is in prison for murder
-Isaacs brother murdered Cynthia's brother
Overall I enjoyed it and read it in a couple of days. The writing style and slang was easy to follow.
The little twist at the end was shocking but it happened and was over way too quickly and I felt things were left unresolved. I would have liked to find out more about how Cynthia confronted Thomas after the reveal.
Reminders for me
- black teenage boy is stabbed to death in London
- family move out of London to posh area and Cynthia meets Thomas (white) and Isaac (black) who are brothers (Isaac is adopted)
- Cynthia falls for Isaac despite Thomas liking her and warning her to stay away from Isaac
- Isaac tells her a little bit about his background....older brother, mum and dad died
- Cynthia finds out Isaacs brother is in prison for murder
-Isaacs brother murdered Cynthia's brother
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 31, 2022
Wow, what a book, I finished it over the weekend as I was immediately hooked.
Cynthia and her family are relocating to the country from London after the tragic killing of her older brother. She is faced with the prospect of transitioning into private school and a new way of living. She has the support of head boy Thomas and his adopted brother Isaac, the only other black kid at their school.
This book is an exploration of race, tragedy, class and love. It shines a light on the complexities of growing up as a black British teen. The way hateful ideologists are woven into the fabric of elite institutions and society are highlighted and leave you raging.
This is a very important book that will challenge and empower you as a reader.
Thank you @netgallery and @serpentstail for this advanced copy.
Cynthia and her family are relocating to the country from London after the tragic killing of her older brother. She is faced with the prospect of transitioning into private school and a new way of living. She has the support of head boy Thomas and his adopted brother Isaac, the only other black kid at their school.
This book is an exploration of race, tragedy, class and love. It shines a light on the complexities of growing up as a black British teen. The way hateful ideologists are woven into the fabric of elite institutions and society are highlighted and leave you raging.
This is a very important book that will challenge and empower you as a reader.
Thank you @netgallery and @serpentstail for this advanced copy.
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