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Nasty Little Cuts
FROM THE #1 EBOOK BESTSELLING AUTHOR OF CALL ME MUMMY
'Gripped my throat and didn't let go until the final, searing sentence' - CAROLINE ENGLAND
A nightmare jolts Debs awake. She leaves the kids tucked up in their beds and goes downstairs. There's a man in her kitchen, holding a knife. But it's not an intruder. This is her husband Marc, the father of her children.
Once, their differences were what drew them together. Him, the ex-army officer from a good family. Her, the fitness instructor who grew up over a pub. But now they grate to the point of drawing blood. Marc screams in his sleep. And Debs hardly knows the person she's become, or why she lets him hurt her.
Neither of them is completely innocent. Neither is totally guilty. Marc is taller, stronger, and more vicious, haunted by a war he can't forget. But he has no idea what Debs is capable of when her children's lives are at stake...
This gripping read about a relationship built on passion, poisoned by secrets and violence will keep you turning the pages all night. Perfect for readers of Blood Orange and Big Little Lies.
'A slow-burn thriller, both horrifying and touching' - CATHERINE COOPER
'Gripped my throat and didn't let go until the final, searing sentence' - CAROLINE ENGLAND
A nightmare jolts Debs awake. She leaves the kids tucked up in their beds and goes downstairs. There's a man in her kitchen, holding a knife. But it's not an intruder. This is her husband Marc, the father of her children.
Once, their differences were what drew them together. Him, the ex-army officer from a good family. Her, the fitness instructor who grew up over a pub. But now they grate to the point of drawing blood. Marc screams in his sleep. And Debs hardly knows the person she's become, or why she lets him hurt her.
Neither of them is completely innocent. Neither is totally guilty. Marc is taller, stronger, and more vicious, haunted by a war he can't forget. But he has no idea what Debs is capable of when her children's lives are at stake...
This gripping read about a relationship built on passion, poisoned by secrets and violence will keep you turning the pages all night. Perfect for readers of Blood Orange and Big Little Lies.
'A slow-burn thriller, both horrifying and touching' - CATHERINE COOPER
400 pages, Paperback
First published February 24, 2022
36 people are currently reading
1277 people want to read
About the author
Tina Baker
5 books122 followersTina Baker, the daughter of a window cleaner and fairground traveller, worked as a journalist and broadcaster for thirty years and is probably best known as a television critic for the BBC and GMTV. After so many hours watching soaps gave her a widescreen bum, she got off it and won Celebrity Fit Club. She now avoids writing-induced DVT by working as a Fitness Instructor.
Call Me Mummy is Tina's first novel, inspired by her own unsuccessful attempts to become a mother. Despite the grief of that, she's not stolen a child - so far. But she does rescue cats, whether they want to be rescued or not.
Call Me Mummy is Tina's first novel, inspired by her own unsuccessful attempts to become a mother. Despite the grief of that, she's not stolen a child - so far. But she does rescue cats, whether they want to be rescued or not.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 248 reviews
November 7, 2021
Don’t let the sweet, humorous, Christmasy start to this one fool you. It ain’t sweet and despite Deb’s terrific dark sense of humour it’s not remotely funny. Deb principally tells her story of the nasty cuts of a broken relationship with Marc, from meeting him Then to Now as Christmas approaches. She thought then that she had found her Prince Charming as she’s definitely a Cinderella but he becomes less charming as time wears on. Absolutely charming are the children Dolly and Pat-Pat and the rescue dog Lulu.
Debs is most certainly a survivor, she’s witty, funny, definitely has a smart mouth and so different from serious high flyer Marc. His input is very illuminating and it’s a build up of damaging events until he snaps. The writing is very smart with dialogue to match some of which is very ouch as it hits you in the gut. It’s written in a very realistic way and some people may find that hard especially as the storyline progresses. It’s a very emotional novel with taut as wire tension which builds exponentially and you are waiting, waiting for the deepest cut and so it’s chock full of foreboding. It’s violent at times and edge of your seat unpredictable and I have to be honest it does get a bit too intense and overwhelming as it’s so hard to take. It feels like Debs is stuck inside one of Marc’s ultra violent Xbox games except this is for real. The characterisation is excellent, all are portrayed well and oh boy, is Marc’s mum ever a grade A harridan, she is especially vivid and it explains a lot, chérie. The non linear format may not be everyone’s cup of tea but I like it as it smacks of reality as Deb’s mind flits from then to now as your own mind would in trying to analyse where it all goes wrong.
Overall, I’ve never read Tina Baker before but I’ll definitely want to do so from now on. This is well written in a way that perfectly matches the descent into a cycle of violence and into the pit of despond with the destruction of self and the shocking annihilation of a relationship. It’s not an easy read but nor is it meant to be.
With thanks to Serpents Tail/Viper/Profile Books for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
Debs is most certainly a survivor, she’s witty, funny, definitely has a smart mouth and so different from serious high flyer Marc. His input is very illuminating and it’s a build up of damaging events until he snaps. The writing is very smart with dialogue to match some of which is very ouch as it hits you in the gut. It’s written in a very realistic way and some people may find that hard especially as the storyline progresses. It’s a very emotional novel with taut as wire tension which builds exponentially and you are waiting, waiting for the deepest cut and so it’s chock full of foreboding. It’s violent at times and edge of your seat unpredictable and I have to be honest it does get a bit too intense and overwhelming as it’s so hard to take. It feels like Debs is stuck inside one of Marc’s ultra violent Xbox games except this is for real. The characterisation is excellent, all are portrayed well and oh boy, is Marc’s mum ever a grade A harridan, she is especially vivid and it explains a lot, chérie. The non linear format may not be everyone’s cup of tea but I like it as it smacks of reality as Deb’s mind flits from then to now as your own mind would in trying to analyse where it all goes wrong.
Overall, I’ve never read Tina Baker before but I’ll definitely want to do so from now on. This is well written in a way that perfectly matches the descent into a cycle of violence and into the pit of despond with the destruction of self and the shocking annihilation of a relationship. It’s not an easy read but nor is it meant to be.
With thanks to Serpents Tail/Viper/Profile Books for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
January 27, 2022
Oh gosh this a hard one to review. It took a little while to get the hang of it as the timeline jumps around like an electrocuted frog and the narrative is largely stream of consciousness stuff. But OMG it was powerful! You could cut the tension with a knife, it was that tense when Debs and Marc have their showdown in the early hours of Christmas Eve.
This was not a simple case of domestic violence. Marc is a man driven to the edge by circumstances somewhat beyond his control and by a toxic brew of uppers, downers and alcohol as he struggles to live up to his own expectations of what a man should be, never mind that he was emasculated by his harradin of a mother from an early age. Yet you even develop a smidgeon of sympathy for her as you learn what made her so.
Debs herself is not the easiest person to get along with. She is definitely not Marc’s mother’s vision of genteel femininity! Debs dragged herself up with grim determination from her loving but highly dysfunctional upbringing. Debs is a firecracker! She is loud brash, talks dirty and fights dirty when she has to. But she would do anything to protect her two children - 9 year Dolly and 3 year old boy Pat-Pat.
By the time we reach the fateful Christmas, Debs is simply exhausted from the demands of her children, her fitness business, running the household and being everybody’s emotional anchor as Marc withdraws more and more into himself only emerging to demand more and more extreme s*xual acts from his exhausted and increasingly concerned wife.
This book should include trigger warnings for language and abusive acts, it’s not pretty but it is utterly compelling! By the time we got to the guts of the story I was all in, totally invested in these characters. You knew the ending was likely to be ugly but the outcome was never a done deal, it could have gone in a few different directions. As I said, it was a powerful read about toxic family dynamics and I applaud the author for telling it this way. Many thanks to Netgalley and Serpent’s Tail / Viper / Profile Books for the much appreciated arc which I reviewed voluntarily and honestly.
This was not a simple case of domestic violence. Marc is a man driven to the edge by circumstances somewhat beyond his control and by a toxic brew of uppers, downers and alcohol as he struggles to live up to his own expectations of what a man should be, never mind that he was emasculated by his harradin of a mother from an early age. Yet you even develop a smidgeon of sympathy for her as you learn what made her so.
Debs herself is not the easiest person to get along with. She is definitely not Marc’s mother’s vision of genteel femininity! Debs dragged herself up with grim determination from her loving but highly dysfunctional upbringing. Debs is a firecracker! She is loud brash, talks dirty and fights dirty when she has to. But she would do anything to protect her two children - 9 year Dolly and 3 year old boy Pat-Pat.
By the time we reach the fateful Christmas, Debs is simply exhausted from the demands of her children, her fitness business, running the household and being everybody’s emotional anchor as Marc withdraws more and more into himself only emerging to demand more and more extreme s*xual acts from his exhausted and increasingly concerned wife.
This book should include trigger warnings for language and abusive acts, it’s not pretty but it is utterly compelling! By the time we got to the guts of the story I was all in, totally invested in these characters. You knew the ending was likely to be ugly but the outcome was never a done deal, it could have gone in a few different directions. As I said, it was a powerful read about toxic family dynamics and I applaud the author for telling it this way. Many thanks to Netgalley and Serpent’s Tail / Viper / Profile Books for the much appreciated arc which I reviewed voluntarily and honestly.
February 15, 2022
What a read this is! Honestly speaking it is difficult to describe it and how it made me feel reading it
It is a dark, really dark look at how a marriage can and does start kinda wrong and now 2 kids on it has festered into something shockingly bad, poisoned, diseased and rank 😫
Debs and Marc are in trouble and this comes to a head in the middle of the night on the night before Christmas Eve and it is a battle who will survive till Morning ( including the 2 kids )
The story goes quickly back and forth from character to timeline and sometimes in a book this can, for me anyway, be problematic but not so in this book, it is so alluring, so disturbingly brilliant you cant allow yourself to be distracted and so I followed the characters and time lines perfectly
Talking of characters Marc’s Mother needs a special mention as she is so menacing, evil, nasty and puerile….and wonderful to read about, I loathed her with a passion and loved it when the chapter was devoted to her 😁
It is an intense, emotive, sinister read with exquisite and plum perfect observational writing
You will know you are reading this book and will remember it for a long time
Outstanding
10/10
5 Stars
It is a dark, really dark look at how a marriage can and does start kinda wrong and now 2 kids on it has festered into something shockingly bad, poisoned, diseased and rank 😫
Debs and Marc are in trouble and this comes to a head in the middle of the night on the night before Christmas Eve and it is a battle who will survive till Morning ( including the 2 kids )
The story goes quickly back and forth from character to timeline and sometimes in a book this can, for me anyway, be problematic but not so in this book, it is so alluring, so disturbingly brilliant you cant allow yourself to be distracted and so I followed the characters and time lines perfectly
Talking of characters Marc’s Mother needs a special mention as she is so menacing, evil, nasty and puerile….and wonderful to read about, I loathed her with a passion and loved it when the chapter was devoted to her 😁
It is an intense, emotive, sinister read with exquisite and plum perfect observational writing
You will know you are reading this book and will remember it for a long time
Outstanding
10/10
5 Stars
March 5, 2022
Thanks to NetGalley & Viper for an eARC of this book. The following review is my honest reflection on the text provided.
It's challenging to get a handle on this story as the timeline is jumpy, and the narrative is scattered. What feels straightforward at first quickly becomes complicated and much darker than I could have predicted.
None of these characters is particularly likeable, but they don't deserve what happens to them. It also doesn't give them the right to treat others the way they do. The tension gradually builds as we learn more about this disjointed family unit. Petty, vindictive, manipulative, and abusive - no one is innocent in this story. But when one character attempts to take this to the next level, with an action they can't take back, the intensity reaches another level, and it starts to feel like no one is safe.
With a fly-on-the-wall view of domestic abuse, Nasty Little Cuts demonstrates the cycle of petty escalations and forgiveness in this toxic relationship. While I struggled to connect at first, it was impossible to put down by the end.
Review originally posted here on Britt's Book Blurbs.
It's challenging to get a handle on this story as the timeline is jumpy, and the narrative is scattered. What feels straightforward at first quickly becomes complicated and much darker than I could have predicted.
None of these characters is particularly likeable, but they don't deserve what happens to them. It also doesn't give them the right to treat others the way they do. The tension gradually builds as we learn more about this disjointed family unit. Petty, vindictive, manipulative, and abusive - no one is innocent in this story. But when one character attempts to take this to the next level, with an action they can't take back, the intensity reaches another level, and it starts to feel like no one is safe.
With a fly-on-the-wall view of domestic abuse, Nasty Little Cuts demonstrates the cycle of petty escalations and forgiveness in this toxic relationship. While I struggled to connect at first, it was impossible to put down by the end.
Review originally posted here on Britt's Book Blurbs.
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January 29, 2022
Domestic noir, doesn’t come much darker than Nasty Little Cuts, it’s painfully honest and very disturbing. Tina Baker paints a bleak picture of a couple whose marriage has reached crisis point. The story centres around married couple Deb and Marc. To say their relationship is toxic feels like an understatement! It’s a festering relationship based on years of past misdemeanour’s, gaslighting and abuse, which culminate in a shocking opening scene that will send shivers down your spine.
Tina Baker has an incredible way of writing that makes you feel you have a bird’s-eye view of the couple’s flawed marriage. It’s shocking, brutal and yet you desperately turn the pages to learn more. The way the story can be chaotic as it jumps back and forth between different timelines and characters, but it’s in keeping with the internal chaos and struggles of the main characters. Flashbacks of the couple’s early lives reveal much about the couple's complex relationship with each other, and the reader learns how love can be poisoned by secrets and silence, and a perfect marriage becomes rotten to the core.
Deb and Mark are characters that are perfectly depicted, their complex, and although you appreciate the struggles they have faced growing up, I found it hard to summon up any sympathy for Marc. Deb is feisty, brash, and not without flaws, but she will do anything to protect her two children. Undoubtedly, there are many shades of grey regarding their relationship and, as the tagline suggests, ‘Neither of them is completely innocent. Neither is totally guilty’.
The tension and a harrowing sense of foreboding grow as the couple’s narrative takes a disturbing turn. I enjoyed the fact that everything points to the ending being an unhappy one, but the outcome is never a forgone conclusion as the tale twists as turns.
Tina Baker’s writing is bold. She doesn’t shy away from writing about difficult subjects; she deals with them head on creating a multilayered read, that’s addictive and hard-hitting. Nasty Little Cuts doesn’t make for a ‘feel good cosy read’ because of the very disturbing subjects explored. So some readers may prefer to give this book a wide berth. But if you enjoy a domestic drama, that’s exquisitely dark and interesting, I would definitely recommend you buy yourself a copy.
Tina Baker has an incredible way of writing that makes you feel you have a bird’s-eye view of the couple’s flawed marriage. It’s shocking, brutal and yet you desperately turn the pages to learn more. The way the story can be chaotic as it jumps back and forth between different timelines and characters, but it’s in keeping with the internal chaos and struggles of the main characters. Flashbacks of the couple’s early lives reveal much about the couple's complex relationship with each other, and the reader learns how love can be poisoned by secrets and silence, and a perfect marriage becomes rotten to the core.
Deb and Mark are characters that are perfectly depicted, their complex, and although you appreciate the struggles they have faced growing up, I found it hard to summon up any sympathy for Marc. Deb is feisty, brash, and not without flaws, but she will do anything to protect her two children. Undoubtedly, there are many shades of grey regarding their relationship and, as the tagline suggests, ‘Neither of them is completely innocent. Neither is totally guilty’.
The tension and a harrowing sense of foreboding grow as the couple’s narrative takes a disturbing turn. I enjoyed the fact that everything points to the ending being an unhappy one, but the outcome is never a forgone conclusion as the tale twists as turns.
Tina Baker’s writing is bold. She doesn’t shy away from writing about difficult subjects; she deals with them head on creating a multilayered read, that’s addictive and hard-hitting. Nasty Little Cuts doesn’t make for a ‘feel good cosy read’ because of the very disturbing subjects explored. So some readers may prefer to give this book a wide berth. But if you enjoy a domestic drama, that’s exquisitely dark and interesting, I would definitely recommend you buy yourself a copy.
March 4, 2022
After loving Call Me Mummy, Baker's debut, I couldn't wait to get stuck in to this.
As with her first book, Nasty Little Cuts is very dark, and takes your mind to places you never asked to go to! It makes for very uncomfortable reading and I did have to take breaks throughout to give my mind a rest!
It is a good book, but I have to say I wasn't as gripped or obsessed with the story as much as Mummy, and wasn't racing through it as much, or thinking about it as I went about my day. I'm not even sure why. The storyline in Mummy is much more my kind of book, and I regularly read books involving child abductions so maybe that's it.
All that said, Baker is making a strong name for herself in the thriller genre and I eagerly anticipate her next offering.
As with her first book, Nasty Little Cuts is very dark, and takes your mind to places you never asked to go to! It makes for very uncomfortable reading and I did have to take breaks throughout to give my mind a rest!
It is a good book, but I have to say I wasn't as gripped or obsessed with the story as much as Mummy, and wasn't racing through it as much, or thinking about it as I went about my day. I'm not even sure why. The storyline in Mummy is much more my kind of book, and I regularly read books involving child abductions so maybe that's it.
All that said, Baker is making a strong name for herself in the thriller genre and I eagerly anticipate her next offering.
October 4, 2022
⚠️ TW: mental health, drug abuse, alcoholism, domestic abuse, sexual assault, rape, ableism, homophobia, fatphobia, animal abuse, murder, suicide and brief mentions of infertility and miscarriages ⚠️ If you're looking for a dark and haunting read then this one is for you! This book follows Debs and her family when on Christmas Eve a nightmare jolts her awake, but little does she know her nightmare is just beginning as she finds a man in her kitchen wielding a knife. But it's not an intruder, it's her husband Marc. When they first got together their differences were what drew them together and sparked their whirlwind romance. Him an ex-army officer from an upper class family in London and her a fitness instructor who grew up above a pub in Nottingham. But now the differences are all that are left. Haunted by war, Marc screams in his sleep. And Debs hardly knows the person she's become. Yet, neither of them know what the other is capable of. This book had my heart in my mouth all the way through and whilst it was a really tough read in parts it was also a good one too. The various timelines gave a glimpse of the immense amount of threads within this story that lead to not only the progression of the relationship but also the downfall of their marriage. And despite not really liking Debs or Marc, I did like that it showed how they were both incredibly flawed and had their own toxic traits that lead to their explosive life. However, even though I enjoyed the timelines I did struggle with the older ones as they weren't in order and I think it would have helped the flow by taking the reader on the journey throughout their lives and relationship. Overall though this was a really good, compelling read!
February 11, 2022
I received this book from NetGalley and the publisher, in return for an honest review. This review is based entirely on my own thoughts and feelings.
Overall rating : 5*
Writing skill : 5*
Plot: 3*
Characters: 5*
Super realistic domestic violence: 5*
The premise - who will survive the night.
TRIGGER WARNING - DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
Tina can do no wrong in my eyes. This is her second novel and it packs the same brutal punch, actually if not more, than the first, 'Call me mummy'.
This was dark, utterly realistic and unputdownable. My heart was actually racing at times, and I didnt know how it was going to end. I will say this is not for the faint hearted, it is very realistic, and I imagine it could trigger some readers.
The multi time lines, flashes back to previous years, even decades, added to the suspense and built an impressive story away from the current time. Do not be fooled into thinking because this is set on Christmas eve it is a festival read. It is not. But it is a fabulously dark, thrilling ride. Please read this!!
Overall rating : 5*
Writing skill : 5*
Plot: 3*
Characters: 5*
Super realistic domestic violence: 5*
The premise - who will survive the night.
TRIGGER WARNING - DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
Tina can do no wrong in my eyes. This is her second novel and it packs the same brutal punch, actually if not more, than the first, 'Call me mummy'.
This was dark, utterly realistic and unputdownable. My heart was actually racing at times, and I didnt know how it was going to end. I will say this is not for the faint hearted, it is very realistic, and I imagine it could trigger some readers.
The multi time lines, flashes back to previous years, even decades, added to the suspense and built an impressive story away from the current time. Do not be fooled into thinking because this is set on Christmas eve it is a festival read. It is not. But it is a fabulously dark, thrilling ride. Please read this!!
June 21, 2023
:( MI SKUZI
Strasznie się męczyłyśmy w swoim towarzystwie. Chciałabym ją polubić jak "Złą mamusię", ale nie trafiła do mnie. Pomimo trudnej tematyki nie wywołała u mnie ani krzty emocji, nie utrzymała w zainteresowaniu, wynudziła wręcz. Nie wiem, czy w ogóle pisać o tej książce, bo nie chcę być niemiła.
Strasznie się męczyłyśmy w swoim towarzystwie. Chciałabym ją polubić jak "Złą mamusię", ale nie trafiła do mnie. Pomimo trudnej tematyki nie wywołała u mnie ani krzty emocji, nie utrzymała w zainteresowaniu, wynudziła wręcz. Nie wiem, czy w ogóle pisać o tej książce, bo nie chcę być niemiła.
March 23, 2022
A big thank you to Jonathan Ball Publishers for sending me a review copy of this book. This is a horrifying, exquisitely dark thriller that gives you a look into one family’s home. Revealing what happens behind closed doors when no-one is watching. Be warned, Nasty Little Cuts will have you reading late into the night, eagerly flipping pages as you fall deeper and deeper into the nightmare that Debs lives in every day.
This book was my first encounter with Tina Baker. I loved how she mixed up her story jumping between past and present, leaving you deeply engrossed and never a hundred percent sure of what to expect. I loved this horrific look at how much a wife will endure before she decides it is too much. The author keeps you on the edge of your seat while she shares the horrors her characters have endured throughout their lives.
Debs wakes in a cold sweat after a horrible nightmare. Shaken she makes her way downstairs, only to find a man standing at the kitchen door holding a knife. Frozen in place, she struggles to decide if she should head back upstairs to save her children, or down to confront the intruder.
Only it’s not an intruder, it’s Marc, her husband. Heading downstairs she finds something is not right. Looking into Marc’s eyes she is filled with dread. All she sees in those grey eyes are hate. Noticing the half-empty bottle of vodka and the sleeping pills, Debs quickly understands that she is in trouble, and so are her children. Can she protect her children? Will she make it to dawn?
Nasty Little Cuts is a brutal, horrific story that gives you a peek at what happens behind someone else’s closed door. The author exposes every nasty little detail these people have lived through leaving you breathless and angry at the experiences this couple has endured. Reading this book left me thankful for the rather normal family members I am surrounded by.
Both Debs and Marc have a childhood they would rather not speak about. They experienced events at a young age they were not equipped to deal with and both choices to bury these events deep within, never talking about them. Together, they make a disastrous combination. As the story unfolds you realise they never had a chance. Their deepest secrets are eating away at them, leaving them on an inevitable collision course that could not possibly end well. These characters are damaged souls, pretending to be ok. Both hoping the other will save them.
I absolutely loved this book. Had my life allowed it, I would not have put this down. This is a book you can read in one sitting, believe me, it is extremely hard to drag yourself away.
This dark, disturbing story will appeal to thriller fans who love books that do not hold back the punches. When you think it cannot possibly get any worse, keep reading because I promised the author will surprise you with another terrible little detail.
This is a brilliantly creative story that delivers one gut-wrenching punch after the next. I cannot recommend this book highly enough.
Please note this book contains mild animal cruelty, it is not graphic and really just touched on, but if that is something that will upset you, you need to know it is there.
https://featzreviews.com
This book was my first encounter with Tina Baker. I loved how she mixed up her story jumping between past and present, leaving you deeply engrossed and never a hundred percent sure of what to expect. I loved this horrific look at how much a wife will endure before she decides it is too much. The author keeps you on the edge of your seat while she shares the horrors her characters have endured throughout their lives.
Debs wakes in a cold sweat after a horrible nightmare. Shaken she makes her way downstairs, only to find a man standing at the kitchen door holding a knife. Frozen in place, she struggles to decide if she should head back upstairs to save her children, or down to confront the intruder.
Only it’s not an intruder, it’s Marc, her husband. Heading downstairs she finds something is not right. Looking into Marc’s eyes she is filled with dread. All she sees in those grey eyes are hate. Noticing the half-empty bottle of vodka and the sleeping pills, Debs quickly understands that she is in trouble, and so are her children. Can she protect her children? Will she make it to dawn?
Nasty Little Cuts is a brutal, horrific story that gives you a peek at what happens behind someone else’s closed door. The author exposes every nasty little detail these people have lived through leaving you breathless and angry at the experiences this couple has endured. Reading this book left me thankful for the rather normal family members I am surrounded by.
Both Debs and Marc have a childhood they would rather not speak about. They experienced events at a young age they were not equipped to deal with and both choices to bury these events deep within, never talking about them. Together, they make a disastrous combination. As the story unfolds you realise they never had a chance. Their deepest secrets are eating away at them, leaving them on an inevitable collision course that could not possibly end well. These characters are damaged souls, pretending to be ok. Both hoping the other will save them.
I absolutely loved this book. Had my life allowed it, I would not have put this down. This is a book you can read in one sitting, believe me, it is extremely hard to drag yourself away.
This dark, disturbing story will appeal to thriller fans who love books that do not hold back the punches. When you think it cannot possibly get any worse, keep reading because I promised the author will surprise you with another terrible little detail.
This is a brilliantly creative story that delivers one gut-wrenching punch after the next. I cannot recommend this book highly enough.
Please note this book contains mild animal cruelty, it is not graphic and really just touched on, but if that is something that will upset you, you need to know it is there.
https://featzreviews.com
January 4, 2022
Well… this book completely ruined me. Tina has a gift of writing stories that seem so realistic, even when they’re completely brutal. Please, dear readers, don’t like the Christmas atmosphere of this book fool you into thinking it’s going to be a heart warming story, this book is DARK.
We follow Deb as she recounts the story of her broken relationship with her husband, Marc, from when she first met him up to the present day Christmas time. Deb thought that she had found her perfect man who was charming and attentive, but as their relationship ages he becomes less and less charming. Deb is left facing a choice of what to do when the lives of her sweet innocent children, Dolly and Pat-Pat, are at stake in the family house as her husband grows increasingly violent.
This is a very intense book, but don’t get me wrong, its thoroughly enjoyable and I just couldn’t put it down. This really strikes a cord with all the domestic abuse and violence, and the way the characters and violence are portrayed in this novel is very realistic, so much so that it could definitely trigger a lot of people. This wonderful book is dark, violent, gripping your seat unpredictable and I loved it. If you’re a survivor of domestic abuse, read with caution as this may be too much for you.
Thank you so much to Viper publishing for sending me a copy in exchange for a review.
We follow Deb as she recounts the story of her broken relationship with her husband, Marc, from when she first met him up to the present day Christmas time. Deb thought that she had found her perfect man who was charming and attentive, but as their relationship ages he becomes less and less charming. Deb is left facing a choice of what to do when the lives of her sweet innocent children, Dolly and Pat-Pat, are at stake in the family house as her husband grows increasingly violent.
This is a very intense book, but don’t get me wrong, its thoroughly enjoyable and I just couldn’t put it down. This really strikes a cord with all the domestic abuse and violence, and the way the characters and violence are portrayed in this novel is very realistic, so much so that it could definitely trigger a lot of people. This wonderful book is dark, violent, gripping your seat unpredictable and I loved it. If you’re a survivor of domestic abuse, read with caution as this may be too much for you.
Thank you so much to Viper publishing for sending me a copy in exchange for a review.
July 26, 2023
This is my third book this year by Tina Baker (my new BFF) and is another superb standalone psychological thriller. Nasty Little Cuts is Tina’s second novel and if you haven’t read any of her books I can highly recommend both Call Me Mummy (see my full review here) and Make Me Clean (see my full review here).
None of Tina’s books are light reading or for the faint hearted. They all pack a powerful punch and leave a very uncomfortable aftertaste when you finish the book, but that is EXACTLY what I want from a psychological thriller.
Nasty Little Cuts is a brutal and raw story centred around the marriage of Debs and Marc. Two total opposites who met, got married, started a family despite their obvious differences. This is a relationship that would never have worked and now it’s heading for a violent and dangerous outcome.
The story flits back and forth constantly, taking the reader through the timelines of both Debs and Marc’s past. We dig deeper into both their pasts, their family relationships, the dysfunctional childhoods and learn what happened to each character to make them behave the way they do as adults.
It’s really uncomfortable and dark, it’s a powerful story of toxic love which gets right under your skin and takes you on a very disturbing journey with Debs and Marc.
Tina Baker has brought to life two fascinating but flawed characters. The tension grows from page to page and the simmering violence left me emotionally drained. If you enjoy your thrillers so dark you may need a torch, so uncomfortable you may need a cushion and so emotionally draining you will definitely need a sugary cup of tea, then I would definitely recommend Nasty Little Cuts (and her other 2 books as well).
None of Tina’s books are light reading or for the faint hearted. They all pack a powerful punch and leave a very uncomfortable aftertaste when you finish the book, but that is EXACTLY what I want from a psychological thriller.
Nasty Little Cuts is a brutal and raw story centred around the marriage of Debs and Marc. Two total opposites who met, got married, started a family despite their obvious differences. This is a relationship that would never have worked and now it’s heading for a violent and dangerous outcome.
The story flits back and forth constantly, taking the reader through the timelines of both Debs and Marc’s past. We dig deeper into both their pasts, their family relationships, the dysfunctional childhoods and learn what happened to each character to make them behave the way they do as adults.
It’s really uncomfortable and dark, it’s a powerful story of toxic love which gets right under your skin and takes you on a very disturbing journey with Debs and Marc.
Tina Baker has brought to life two fascinating but flawed characters. The tension grows from page to page and the simmering violence left me emotionally drained. If you enjoy your thrillers so dark you may need a torch, so uncomfortable you may need a cushion and so emotionally draining you will definitely need a sugary cup of tea, then I would definitely recommend Nasty Little Cuts (and her other 2 books as well).
November 23, 2022
This book is a raw, unforgiving and dark story of Deb and her husband Marc. The story goes from present day point of view told by several characters to the past where the lives of Deb and Marc are truly detailed before and after having children.
The dark truths of PTSD are exposed leaving the reader wondering how something like this could end.
Some chapters were difficult at first read to know who may be narrating.......
The story was well written, detailed and portrays a mother's will to protect her family at all costs.
The dark truths of PTSD are exposed leaving the reader wondering how something like this could end.
Some chapters were difficult at first read to know who may be narrating.......
The story was well written, detailed and portrays a mother's will to protect her family at all costs.
June 21, 2022
When it comes to Tina Baker, you can rest assured that it'll be a unique and unconventional story waiting for you. Call Me Mummy is one of the most memorable child kidnapping stories I've ever read so I had high hopes for the author's sophomore book.
Again, Nasty Little Cuts is not your typical domestic suspense novel. What you have instead is a dark and acute exploration into the cumulative tension and eventual breakdown of a relationship, marriage and domestic life. It's dark, it's gritty, it's uncomfortable.
Perhaps too uncomfortable. While I think this book is super original and well-written, I just didn't love it. There was a lot of rape and sexual assault and abuse, which I wasn't expecting. Some of scenes were also super vulgar (which is likely the point of it).
Perhaps I would have enjoyed this more if I had been better prepared for the subject matter or if I had been in a more suitable mood. Such a shame though as I loved the writing and execution. I just never connected with the book because the aforementioned aspects put me off.
Again, Nasty Little Cuts is not your typical domestic suspense novel. What you have instead is a dark and acute exploration into the cumulative tension and eventual breakdown of a relationship, marriage and domestic life. It's dark, it's gritty, it's uncomfortable.
Perhaps too uncomfortable. While I think this book is super original and well-written, I just didn't love it. There was a lot of rape and sexual assault and abuse, which I wasn't expecting. Some of scenes were also super vulgar (which is likely the point of it).
Perhaps I would have enjoyed this more if I had been better prepared for the subject matter or if I had been in a more suitable mood. Such a shame though as I loved the writing and execution. I just never connected with the book because the aforementioned aspects put me off.
March 8, 2023
this was so disappointing. the premise was SO SO GOOD and could have been taken so far but it just didn’t go in a direction that was interesting or thrilling. for me it felt like a married couple fighting all around their house with no plot. the flashbacks and multiple timeline just didn’t work that well and they were in no meaningful order so just made it more complicated. any thriller including children has to be done very well in order to stop it just being tragic. and this was not it
June 11, 2022
Now there's nothing like a piece of truly toxic domestic noir once in a while to bring one back to earth with a bump, and I'm delighted to say that this little diamond has it all.
A great storyline which involves some larger than life characters that just fill the living pages with their wonderful, completely believable, very British dialogue and banter that just left me wanting more.
The 'backward and forwardy' timeline of the narrative worked well but did become slightly irritating as progression was made through the story, but as it was always easy to pick-up the plot with a very brief backtrack of a paragraph or two, then this slight distraction should be forgiven and not deter future readers from entering the truly, disturbingly dark, marvellous worlds of Debs, Marc, Jeanne and Kelly.
So what about the overall reading experience?
Well, on this occasion I can honestly say that - "The computer says yes, yes, yes, yes and...YES!"
Thank you Tina, am left eagerly awaiting your next novel, so please don't leave me dangling for too long!
Rating: 4.3 tense and pleasurable, pulsatingly good dark stars.
A great storyline which involves some larger than life characters that just fill the living pages with their wonderful, completely believable, very British dialogue and banter that just left me wanting more.
The 'backward and forwardy' timeline of the narrative worked well but did become slightly irritating as progression was made through the story, but as it was always easy to pick-up the plot with a very brief backtrack of a paragraph or two, then this slight distraction should be forgiven and not deter future readers from entering the truly, disturbingly dark, marvellous worlds of Debs, Marc, Jeanne and Kelly.
So what about the overall reading experience?
Well, on this occasion I can honestly say that - "The computer says yes, yes, yes, yes and...YES!"
Thank you Tina, am left eagerly awaiting your next novel, so please don't leave me dangling for too long!
Rating: 4.3 tense and pleasurable, pulsatingly good dark stars.
February 24, 2022
It’s the early hours of Christmas Eve and a nightmare wakes Deb. Then she hears a noise downstairs. She creeps down, trying not to disturb her children and she sees a man. Holding a knife. But this isn’t any man. This is her husband, Marc. And the next few hours really will become a nightmare for her…
Another wickedly wonderful book from Tina Baker. (If you haven’t read Call Me Mummy you need to, immediately!). This second book is incredibly well written and exceptionally clever & well crafted. As the minutes tick by on this long and dark night the layers of Debs and Marc’s marriage are unpeeled like an onion; we get to see what a first class b*stard Marc is. The way he treat his family, I wanted to wring his neck! But as his history is revealed I actually began to feel a tiny bit sorry for him.
The book moves back and forth between the present and different occasions in the past, which eventually all come together to explain how Marc and Deb have come to be sat in their kitchen, on Christmas Eve morning, at the point of no return.
The plot is first class; there’s a sickening sense of unease through the pages, seeing how Marc originally turns on the charm before he changes. I’ve had a Marc in my own life (with even the same name) & im this is exactly how it happens. And then there are the characters, all of them absolutely mesmerising! I loved Debs with all my heart - she was a fighter, a mama bear protecting her cubs. Then there was Jeanne, Marc’s mother. What a piece of work she was. But there could be no bigger favourite than the simply wonderful Lulu. I don’t think I’ve ever loved a dog more. I need Lulu in my kitchen!
Nasty Little Cuts is a chilling and compelling read which will creep into your head and completely immerse you in the world of Debs and Marc. I absolutely loved it.
Another wickedly wonderful book from Tina Baker. (If you haven’t read Call Me Mummy you need to, immediately!). This second book is incredibly well written and exceptionally clever & well crafted. As the minutes tick by on this long and dark night the layers of Debs and Marc’s marriage are unpeeled like an onion; we get to see what a first class b*stard Marc is. The way he treat his family, I wanted to wring his neck! But as his history is revealed I actually began to feel a tiny bit sorry for him.
The book moves back and forth between the present and different occasions in the past, which eventually all come together to explain how Marc and Deb have come to be sat in their kitchen, on Christmas Eve morning, at the point of no return.
The plot is first class; there’s a sickening sense of unease through the pages, seeing how Marc originally turns on the charm before he changes. I’ve had a Marc in my own life (with even the same name) & im this is exactly how it happens. And then there are the characters, all of them absolutely mesmerising! I loved Debs with all my heart - she was a fighter, a mama bear protecting her cubs. Then there was Jeanne, Marc’s mother. What a piece of work she was. But there could be no bigger favourite than the simply wonderful Lulu. I don’t think I’ve ever loved a dog more. I need Lulu in my kitchen!
Nasty Little Cuts is a chilling and compelling read which will creep into your head and completely immerse you in the world of Debs and Marc. I absolutely loved it.
January 29, 2023
A nightmare jolts Debs awake. She leaves the kids tucked up in their beds and goes downstairs. There's a man in her kitchen, holding a knife. But it's not an intruder. This is her husband Marc, the father of her children. A man she no longer recognises.
This is one twisty, dark, domestic noir! It’s brilliant and creative narrative that takes you deep inside a family home and the psyche of protagonists Debs and Marc.
The author cleverly weaves past and present timelines and alternative POV’s that keep you on the edge of your seat. In fact, for the whole novel, I was on that edge! It’s powerful, violent, emotive and utterly thrilling!
I feel I need to add TW’s here as it might not be for everyone. Physical, emotional and sexual abuse. Mental health, drugs.
I was totally invested in the characters and storyline. It’s not an easy read but an excellent, chilling and gripping one. To add softness, I adored Lulu the dog. I haven’t read anything by Tina Baker before, but I certainly will be from now on!!
This is one twisty, dark, domestic noir! It’s brilliant and creative narrative that takes you deep inside a family home and the psyche of protagonists Debs and Marc.
The author cleverly weaves past and present timelines and alternative POV’s that keep you on the edge of your seat. In fact, for the whole novel, I was on that edge! It’s powerful, violent, emotive and utterly thrilling!
I feel I need to add TW’s here as it might not be for everyone. Physical, emotional and sexual abuse. Mental health, drugs.
I was totally invested in the characters and storyline. It’s not an easy read but an excellent, chilling and gripping one. To add softness, I adored Lulu the dog. I haven’t read anything by Tina Baker before, but I certainly will be from now on!!
June 7, 2022
Debs awakens from a nightmare. Leaving the kids in bed, she goes downstairs to be greeted by a horrific sight. There's a man in her kitchen, holding a knife. However this man is her husband, Marc. But she no longer trusts or recognises him. Debs doesn't quite realise though, the full extent of the danger she is in.
@tinabakerbooks has done it again - another fantastic thriller!
This kept me fully gripped, devouring each page. I loved the short chapters, the tense atmosphere that slowly built up. It was such a thrill ride!
Only thing that I'm confused with from the book is *the boy* - this isn't a spoiler, but I'm wondering if maybe that part didn't settle in my brain properly. If anyone does know the story around *the boy* could they let me know please. I think it was probably because I was so entranced with the rest of the story!
@tinabakerbooks has done it again - another fantastic thriller!
This kept me fully gripped, devouring each page. I loved the short chapters, the tense atmosphere that slowly built up. It was such a thrill ride!
Only thing that I'm confused with from the book is *the boy* - this isn't a spoiler, but I'm wondering if maybe that part didn't settle in my brain properly. If anyone does know the story around *the boy* could they let me know please. I think it was probably because I was so entranced with the rest of the story!
July 18, 2024
Ta książka miała ogromny potencjał. Mogła być fascynującym i przerażającym obrazem powolnego rozkładu małżeństwa. A jednak – nie siadło.
Autorka skacze po różnych momentach życia pary, ale robi to tak chaotycznie, że czytelnik gubi się i... nic z tego tak naprawdę nie wynika.
Autorka skacze po różnych momentach życia pary, ale robi to tak chaotycznie, że czytelnik gubi się i... nic z tego tak naprawdę nie wynika.
March 5, 2022
Debs and Marc's marriage is on the rocks. It's very early in the morning on Christmas Eve and Debs, lying awake in bed after waking from a nightmare, uses the bathroom then goes downstairs after hearing a noise. It's her husband... and he is brandishing a knife.
With its very dramatic opening, I knew I was going to be reading something terrifically good here, just as Tina Baker's début, Call Me Mummy was. Nasty Little Cuts is narrated from two different timescales; the present moment and also flashbacks, using alternative viewpoints. As the reader sees how the two grew as a couple, an insight is gained as to why they are at this point now where there can be no return. I totally revelled in the wickedly enthralling story with its palpable sense of doom and unease. Superb, clever and thoroughly engrossing.
A special thank you to Serpent's Tail / Viper, Tina Baker, NetGalley and Pigeonhole for the opportunity to read. This review is my unbiased opinion.
With its very dramatic opening, I knew I was going to be reading something terrifically good here, just as Tina Baker's début, Call Me Mummy was. Nasty Little Cuts is narrated from two different timescales; the present moment and also flashbacks, using alternative viewpoints. As the reader sees how the two grew as a couple, an insight is gained as to why they are at this point now where there can be no return. I totally revelled in the wickedly enthralling story with its palpable sense of doom and unease. Superb, clever and thoroughly engrossing.
A special thank you to Serpent's Tail / Viper, Tina Baker, NetGalley and Pigeonhole for the opportunity to read. This review is my unbiased opinion.
December 20, 2021
I’ll let you in on a little secret: I never even read the synopsis properly before requesting Nasty Little Cuts on NetGalley. Call Me Mummy was such a surprise, such a fantastic debut, that I never doubted that whatever Tina Baker had come up with next would be awesome and I needed to read it.
Nasty Little Cuts didn’t disappoint, I had a great time with it! That is, if you consider that getting so thoroughly pissed off at a character that you’d happily punch their lights out counts as having a great time, which, fortunately, I do!
Nasty Little Cuts kicks off on Christmas Eve morning. (I started this just before Christmas and I thought: oh fun, an unexpected Christmassy read! Yeah, no, it’s not. Like, AT ALL.) At silly o’clock in the morning, Debs wakes up from a dream turned nightmare, unaware that her real nightmare has yet to begin.
Entering the kitchen, she finds her husband Marc, holding a knife and apparently gone completely off his rocker. This kicks off what is probably the longest morning in the history of time, with the tension and the violence slowly rising until I wanted to throw my Kobo out the window cos I needed the release. I didn’t cos I love my Kobo but also, I had to know how this bloody morning would end! When daylight finally breaks, who would still be standing?!
In addition to these present-day events, Nasty Little Cuts takes us back and forth in time, allowing us to explore the protagonists’ histories and their various relationships, first and foremost as a couple, but also Debs’ close bond with her sister and mother, and Marc’s complicated relationship with his mother. While it does jump back and forth a lot, it never gets confusing and most importantly, it allows for small, often rather eye-opening reveals along the way while enabling the reader to see the bigger picture.
To my mind, the title Nasty Little Cuts refers at least in part to a death by a thousand cuts, that’s what Debs’ story reminded me of. Without going into too much detail, if abuse and gaslighting are difficult for you to read about, steer clear of Nasty Little Cuts. But this is definitely the one for you if you like to get invested in well-fleshed-out, well-rounded characters and love going through a whole range of emotions while reading a book. Seriously, name an emotion and I most likely felt it while reading Nasty Little Cuts.
Nasty Little Cuts is a tense and layered domestic thriller with an excellent build-up that I’d happily recommend to fans of the genre who don’t mind a bit of swearing.
Nasty Little Cuts is out today in digital formats and hardcover, happy publication day to Tina Baker!
Huge thanks to Viper Books and NetGalley for the eARC. All opinions are still my own.
Nasty Little Cuts didn’t disappoint, I had a great time with it! That is, if you consider that getting so thoroughly pissed off at a character that you’d happily punch their lights out counts as having a great time, which, fortunately, I do!
Nasty Little Cuts kicks off on Christmas Eve morning. (I started this just before Christmas and I thought: oh fun, an unexpected Christmassy read! Yeah, no, it’s not. Like, AT ALL.) At silly o’clock in the morning, Debs wakes up from a dream turned nightmare, unaware that her real nightmare has yet to begin.
Entering the kitchen, she finds her husband Marc, holding a knife and apparently gone completely off his rocker. This kicks off what is probably the longest morning in the history of time, with the tension and the violence slowly rising until I wanted to throw my Kobo out the window cos I needed the release. I didn’t cos I love my Kobo but also, I had to know how this bloody morning would end! When daylight finally breaks, who would still be standing?!
In addition to these present-day events, Nasty Little Cuts takes us back and forth in time, allowing us to explore the protagonists’ histories and their various relationships, first and foremost as a couple, but also Debs’ close bond with her sister and mother, and Marc’s complicated relationship with his mother. While it does jump back and forth a lot, it never gets confusing and most importantly, it allows for small, often rather eye-opening reveals along the way while enabling the reader to see the bigger picture.
To my mind, the title Nasty Little Cuts refers at least in part to a death by a thousand cuts, that’s what Debs’ story reminded me of. Without going into too much detail, if abuse and gaslighting are difficult for you to read about, steer clear of Nasty Little Cuts. But this is definitely the one for you if you like to get invested in well-fleshed-out, well-rounded characters and love going through a whole range of emotions while reading a book. Seriously, name an emotion and I most likely felt it while reading Nasty Little Cuts.
Nasty Little Cuts is a tense and layered domestic thriller with an excellent build-up that I’d happily recommend to fans of the genre who don’t mind a bit of swearing.
Nasty Little Cuts is out today in digital formats and hardcover, happy publication day to Tina Baker!
Huge thanks to Viper Books and NetGalley for the eARC. All opinions are still my own.
April 25, 2022
⭐️ 4 ⭐️
What can I say? Brilliant, just brilliant!
Nasty Little Cuts is a dark, chilling read. Well-written, with short, snappy chapters, which flit effortlessly between different timelines.
Fantastic characterisation and such realistic dialogue. I loved Debs and really rooted for her. The sense of tension and foreboding throughout is palpable, you can almost cut the atmosphere with a knife.
The breakdown of a toxic relationship, expertly depicted by Tina Baker, showing how each ‘nasty little cut’ can cause lasting damage.
Overall, a fabulous page-turner.
Agadoo!
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC, in exchange for an, unbiased review.
What can I say? Brilliant, just brilliant!
Nasty Little Cuts is a dark, chilling read. Well-written, with short, snappy chapters, which flit effortlessly between different timelines.
Fantastic characterisation and such realistic dialogue. I loved Debs and really rooted for her. The sense of tension and foreboding throughout is palpable, you can almost cut the atmosphere with a knife.
The breakdown of a toxic relationship, expertly depicted by Tina Baker, showing how each ‘nasty little cut’ can cause lasting damage.
Overall, a fabulous page-turner.
Agadoo!
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC, in exchange for an, unbiased review.
June 3, 2023
There is not a single thing I liked about this book!
February 25, 2022
This book deals with the hugely difficult subject of family annihilators and the psychology behind them, but, being fiction rather than documentary, is able to end with some hope and the promise of Christmas, however dark a Christmas it will be.
I read it on the Pigeonhole, and although I started very late, finished almost on time - the strength of Tina Baker‘s writing drawing me onwards through the tales of the two deeply traumatised protagonists, Debs and Marc. The author was very interactive, replying to comments from readers throughout, and sharing her intentions with the book. It was a real privilege to hear her commentary.
In the end I gave this four rather than five stars because the need for the ending to not be 100% bleak competes with the realistic build-up. We really believe that none of this family will make it - having killed his own mother on the way home from being fired at work, we are sure Marc will succeed in his dark purpose of killing his wife, children and dog - leaving no-one behind.
As it is, this is a grim read but the writing is outstanding - Baker manages to inject real humour in places. If you don’t find the subject-matter (sexual violence including a couple of detailed rape scenes) triggering, I recommend it.
I read it on the Pigeonhole, and although I started very late, finished almost on time - the strength of Tina Baker‘s writing drawing me onwards through the tales of the two deeply traumatised protagonists, Debs and Marc. The author was very interactive, replying to comments from readers throughout, and sharing her intentions with the book. It was a real privilege to hear her commentary.
In the end I gave this four rather than five stars because the need for the ending to not be 100% bleak competes with the realistic build-up. We really believe that none of this family will make it - having killed his own mother on the way home from being fired at work, we are sure Marc will succeed in his dark purpose of killing his wife, children and dog - leaving no-one behind.
As it is, this is a grim read but the writing is outstanding - Baker manages to inject real humour in places. If you don’t find the subject-matter (sexual violence including a couple of detailed rape scenes) triggering, I recommend it.
March 17, 2022
All of my reviews can be found at https://damppebbles.com/
I have been waiting with baited breath for the release of Nasty Little Cuts since reading Tina Baker's debut, Call Me Mummy, last year. Call Me Mummy left its mark on me thanks to the dastardly Mummy and her pursuit of perfection, no matter what the cost. Baker excels at characterisation (which, for me, is as important as plot in a book) so I was excited to get stuck in to Nasty Little Cuts so I could become acquainted with her latest creations, Debs and Marc. Once again the author forensically examines her characters in beautiful, often deeply uncomfortable detail.
Debs awakens with a start knowing immediately that something is terribly wrong. She creeps downstairs to find a man in her kitchen. In his hand he holds a knife. She blinks again and realises it's not a stranger, it's her husband, Marc. How have they gone from a happy, passionate marriage to the point where they no longer really know or trust each other? Debs knows one thing for sure. She and the children are in great danger. Who will make it through the night...?
Nasty Little Cuts is a powerful, emotive read which grips from the opening lines and doesn't let go until you've closed the final page. A harrowing, brutal story of a marriage gone terribly, terribly wrong. I want to say at this point that I don't think a title has ever fitted a novel as well as this one does. Every time I see the cover I think to myself, 'that is so clever, so completely spot on!'. A bit of an aside and not something I normally comment on but hey, it's pretty darn perfect! Because that's what life with Debs and Marc has become. Over the course of their marriage, things have happened, things have been said, some on purpose, some not so much, which have hurt both parties. But they all add up and the result is catastrophic.
This is not an easy read. It will make you feel uncomfortable but I was completely smitten with the way Baker holds her reader's attention, pulling you in the depths of the disaster. Bit by bit, piece by piece. The story is told in the present day, as Debs and Marc face up to each other across the kitchen and in the shadow of the big, pink fridge, and in the past. The reader gets a detailed insight in the couple's past, peeling away the layers and seeing the traumas they've faced - pre and post marriage. The timeline isn't linear and jumps about, going from 15 years ago to 6 months ago to 2 years ago and beyond, which I was concerned would be a smidge confusing but it wasn't at all. Because the events of the past lead the reader to the here and now. It's done exceptionally well. Each slight doing more damage than the last.
The characters are exquisite. I love them all a little for being so darkly flawed but I also loathe them all a little too. Apart from the children, Dolly and Pat-Pat. Once again Baker has written the children in such a way that it's impossible to not feel affection for these helpless, unwilling victims. Dolly, being the older of the two children, steals the show on several occasions (particularly with her RuPaul catchphrases and sassiness) providing a little light in a very dark and disturbing story.
Would I recommend this book? I would, yes. Nasty Little Cuts is a hugely compelling unravelling of a marriage gone wrong. It's pretty bleak and brutal at times. I don't feel the author has held back at all, which I am grateful for, as it's a shocking tale told in glorious, unflinching technicolour. A toxic relationship at breaking point, fuelled by the past and heading towards catastrophe. Will it be for everyone? I'm not sure, but if you're a fan of domestic suspense done INCREDIBLY WELL then yes, you must read this book! A gutsy, brave story from an author who is now on my 'must read' list. Deliciously dark, disturbing and oh so good! Highly recommended.
I have been waiting with baited breath for the release of Nasty Little Cuts since reading Tina Baker's debut, Call Me Mummy, last year. Call Me Mummy left its mark on me thanks to the dastardly Mummy and her pursuit of perfection, no matter what the cost. Baker excels at characterisation (which, for me, is as important as plot in a book) so I was excited to get stuck in to Nasty Little Cuts so I could become acquainted with her latest creations, Debs and Marc. Once again the author forensically examines her characters in beautiful, often deeply uncomfortable detail.
Debs awakens with a start knowing immediately that something is terribly wrong. She creeps downstairs to find a man in her kitchen. In his hand he holds a knife. She blinks again and realises it's not a stranger, it's her husband, Marc. How have they gone from a happy, passionate marriage to the point where they no longer really know or trust each other? Debs knows one thing for sure. She and the children are in great danger. Who will make it through the night...?
Nasty Little Cuts is a powerful, emotive read which grips from the opening lines and doesn't let go until you've closed the final page. A harrowing, brutal story of a marriage gone terribly, terribly wrong. I want to say at this point that I don't think a title has ever fitted a novel as well as this one does. Every time I see the cover I think to myself, 'that is so clever, so completely spot on!'. A bit of an aside and not something I normally comment on but hey, it's pretty darn perfect! Because that's what life with Debs and Marc has become. Over the course of their marriage, things have happened, things have been said, some on purpose, some not so much, which have hurt both parties. But they all add up and the result is catastrophic.
This is not an easy read. It will make you feel uncomfortable but I was completely smitten with the way Baker holds her reader's attention, pulling you in the depths of the disaster. Bit by bit, piece by piece. The story is told in the present day, as Debs and Marc face up to each other across the kitchen and in the shadow of the big, pink fridge, and in the past. The reader gets a detailed insight in the couple's past, peeling away the layers and seeing the traumas they've faced - pre and post marriage. The timeline isn't linear and jumps about, going from 15 years ago to 6 months ago to 2 years ago and beyond, which I was concerned would be a smidge confusing but it wasn't at all. Because the events of the past lead the reader to the here and now. It's done exceptionally well. Each slight doing more damage than the last.
The characters are exquisite. I love them all a little for being so darkly flawed but I also loathe them all a little too. Apart from the children, Dolly and Pat-Pat. Once again Baker has written the children in such a way that it's impossible to not feel affection for these helpless, unwilling victims. Dolly, being the older of the two children, steals the show on several occasions (particularly with her RuPaul catchphrases and sassiness) providing a little light in a very dark and disturbing story.
Would I recommend this book? I would, yes. Nasty Little Cuts is a hugely compelling unravelling of a marriage gone wrong. It's pretty bleak and brutal at times. I don't feel the author has held back at all, which I am grateful for, as it's a shocking tale told in glorious, unflinching technicolour. A toxic relationship at breaking point, fuelled by the past and heading towards catastrophe. Will it be for everyone? I'm not sure, but if you're a fan of domestic suspense done INCREDIBLY WELL then yes, you must read this book! A gutsy, brave story from an author who is now on my 'must read' list. Deliciously dark, disturbing and oh so good! Highly recommended.
October 28, 2024
3.75 :)
February 28, 2022
This is more domestic noir than thriller. I honestly can't find a lot to say about this book. I was glad when I finished. I really should learn not to believe the hype around domestic noir, it's not a genre that I like. I'm sure there was nothing wrong with it if it's a genre you enjoy but this wasn't the right book for me. Evidently from other reviews, I'm in the minority.
March 29, 2022
#nastylittlecuts – Tina Baker
#viper
#jonathanball
Christmas Eve. You wake up before first light. Your husband is not in bed, but both your children, 9-year-old Dolly and toddler Pat-Pat, are still asleep. There is a noise downstairs. Maybe Lulu, the family dog? You decide to check. You find him in the kitchen; his eyes are wild, and he is clutching a knife. On the kitchen counter, in a neat row, your coffee mug and those of the kids – next to sleeping pills. It is not an intruder, though, it is your husband. But he has become a stranger.
Deb grew up roughly; living over the pubs where her mother worked nights and learning to fight for what matters from a young age. Now a fitness instructor and mother to Dolly and Pat-Pat, she has been married to ex-army officer, Marc, for ten years. Of course, they have had their challenges, all couples do, but somewhere boundaries have been crossed and they have ended up here. Who will survive and at what cost?
This psychological suspense novel is classic dark, domestic noir at its best. The opening scene is set at 4:15 am and the closing scene at 8:27 am on the same day. Alternating with the chapters following this central scene, are chapters jumping back in time, as far back as 36 years and as recent as the day before. This construction of events worked brilliantly, and the sympathy of the reader constantly fluctuates between the two main characters. Ultimately, as in life, it becomes clear that neither is completely innocent, but not completely guilty either.
I had to chuckle when reading the acknowledgements, finding this little gem by the author: ‘Some exes have wanted to bludgeon me to death and the feeling was mutual. I’ve been married three times and engaged seven…Sales (of this novel) will fund further treatment for my obsessive-compulsive confetti disorder.’
The novel reminded me of a similar movie of decades ago, ‘The war of the Roses’, except that the novel is neither satire, nor remotely amusing. It is a true page turner, however, and is recommended for readers enjoying a walk on the dark side.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
#Uitdieperdsebek
Jonathan Ball Publishers
#viper
#jonathanball
Christmas Eve. You wake up before first light. Your husband is not in bed, but both your children, 9-year-old Dolly and toddler Pat-Pat, are still asleep. There is a noise downstairs. Maybe Lulu, the family dog? You decide to check. You find him in the kitchen; his eyes are wild, and he is clutching a knife. On the kitchen counter, in a neat row, your coffee mug and those of the kids – next to sleeping pills. It is not an intruder, though, it is your husband. But he has become a stranger.
Deb grew up roughly; living over the pubs where her mother worked nights and learning to fight for what matters from a young age. Now a fitness instructor and mother to Dolly and Pat-Pat, she has been married to ex-army officer, Marc, for ten years. Of course, they have had their challenges, all couples do, but somewhere boundaries have been crossed and they have ended up here. Who will survive and at what cost?
This psychological suspense novel is classic dark, domestic noir at its best. The opening scene is set at 4:15 am and the closing scene at 8:27 am on the same day. Alternating with the chapters following this central scene, are chapters jumping back in time, as far back as 36 years and as recent as the day before. This construction of events worked brilliantly, and the sympathy of the reader constantly fluctuates between the two main characters. Ultimately, as in life, it becomes clear that neither is completely innocent, but not completely guilty either.
I had to chuckle when reading the acknowledgements, finding this little gem by the author: ‘Some exes have wanted to bludgeon me to death and the feeling was mutual. I’ve been married three times and engaged seven…Sales (of this novel) will fund further treatment for my obsessive-compulsive confetti disorder.’
The novel reminded me of a similar movie of decades ago, ‘The war of the Roses’, except that the novel is neither satire, nor remotely amusing. It is a true page turner, however, and is recommended for readers enjoying a walk on the dark side.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
#Uitdieperdsebek
Jonathan Ball Publishers
March 30, 2023
This book is a raw look at domestic violence and how a seemingly perfect relationship on the surface can be hiding so much more behind the scenes than you would ever know. It was a compelling read and I couldn’t put it down, despite the horrifying subject matter.
Debs and Marc have the perfect marriage, or so it seems to the work colleagues that they entertain at dinner parties. Marc has a personal trainer as a wife and Debs has a man who can give her anything she’d ever wanted and more. They have two children, Dolly who is 9 and her brother Pat-Pat who is 3.
The majority of the book takes place in the early hours of Christmas Eve morning, when Debs wakes up and finds her husband downstairs in the kitchen. He has hot chocolate mugs out for the children, alongside a bottle of sleeping pills. Debs knows that something is terribly wrong and knows that she needs to fight her husband for both hers and her children’s lives.
The timeline jumps a lot between the present and different times in the past - when Debs and Marc met, when they had Dolly and when they were both children. It isn’t confusing as it is obvious it’s a completely different time even without the chapter having a title, but it always happens just as you’re getting into the action in the present. I also found that the ending was quite abrupt and didn’t quite satisfy me, I would have liked to know more of what happened to Marc and his mother than the couple of paragraphs at the end.
As much as the subject was horrifying, it was a very interesting book and I’m looking forward to reading Tina Baker’s latest book. Thank you to the online book club The Pigeonhole and Tina Baker giving me the chance to read this compelling book.
Debs and Marc have the perfect marriage, or so it seems to the work colleagues that they entertain at dinner parties. Marc has a personal trainer as a wife and Debs has a man who can give her anything she’d ever wanted and more. They have two children, Dolly who is 9 and her brother Pat-Pat who is 3.
The majority of the book takes place in the early hours of Christmas Eve morning, when Debs wakes up and finds her husband downstairs in the kitchen. He has hot chocolate mugs out for the children, alongside a bottle of sleeping pills. Debs knows that something is terribly wrong and knows that she needs to fight her husband for both hers and her children’s lives.
The timeline jumps a lot between the present and different times in the past - when Debs and Marc met, when they had Dolly and when they were both children. It isn’t confusing as it is obvious it’s a completely different time even without the chapter having a title, but it always happens just as you’re getting into the action in the present. I also found that the ending was quite abrupt and didn’t quite satisfy me, I would have liked to know more of what happened to Marc and his mother than the couple of paragraphs at the end.
As much as the subject was horrifying, it was a very interesting book and I’m looking forward to reading Tina Baker’s latest book. Thank you to the online book club The Pigeonhole and Tina Baker giving me the chance to read this compelling book.
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