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In the Scrape
Most kids dream about a new bike, a pair of top-dollar sneakers endorsed by their favorite athlete, or that totally awesome videogame everyone's raving about. But thirteen-year-old Jake and his little brother Matthew want nothing more than to escape from their abusive father. As soon as possible, they plan to run away to California, where they will reunite with their mother and live happily ever after.
It won't be easy, though. After a scuffle with a local bully puts Jake's arch-nemesis in the hospital, Sheriff Theresa McLelland starts poking her nose into their feud. During a trip to the family cabin for the opening weekend of deer-hunting season, Jake and Matthew kick their plan into action, leaving Dad tied to a chair as they flee into the night.
Meanwhile, the bully and his father have their own plans for revenge, and the events to follow will forever change the lives of everyone involved...
It won't be easy, though. After a scuffle with a local bully puts Jake's arch-nemesis in the hospital, Sheriff Theresa McLelland starts poking her nose into their feud. During a trip to the family cabin for the opening weekend of deer-hunting season, Jake and Matthew kick their plan into action, leaving Dad tied to a chair as they flee into the night.
Meanwhile, the bully and his father have their own plans for revenge, and the events to follow will forever change the lives of everyone involved...
130 pages, Paperback
First published June 4, 2019
14 people are currently reading
529 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 112 reviews
July 3, 2019
Two authors, writing seamlessly together, produced a coming of age novella that cracked my heart.
Matthew and Jacob just want to get away from their abusive father. Trying to put aside enough money to get to California where their mom is now living, there isn't much Jacob won't do. He's the oldest and he can't stand to see his little brother abused and beaten-not one more time. On top of all this, Jacob also has to deal with the local bully. Will Jacob and Matthew get away? Will they be able to find their mother in California? You'll have to read this to find out!
I read this novella in two sittings. The last half especially, hummed right along with a tension that was palpable. I wanted to reach out and hug these kids. I wanted to tell them several things throughout this book, but I never got the chance to breathe! As I said above, the writing style was seamless-I couldn't tell who wrote what and I didn't care. I just wanted these children to be okay.
I can't say too much more without spoiling everything, (and the synopsis gives away a lot already), but if you enjoy a good coming of age tale, scoop up this novella quick! Spend some time with Matthew and Jacob. They need your support!
Highly recommended!
*Thanks to Silver Shamrock Publishing for the e-ARC of this book in exchange for my honest feedback. This is it!*
Matthew and Jacob just want to get away from their abusive father. Trying to put aside enough money to get to California where their mom is now living, there isn't much Jacob won't do. He's the oldest and he can't stand to see his little brother abused and beaten-not one more time. On top of all this, Jacob also has to deal with the local bully. Will Jacob and Matthew get away? Will they be able to find their mother in California? You'll have to read this to find out!
I read this novella in two sittings. The last half especially, hummed right along with a tension that was palpable. I wanted to reach out and hug these kids. I wanted to tell them several things throughout this book, but I never got the chance to breathe! As I said above, the writing style was seamless-I couldn't tell who wrote what and I didn't care. I just wanted these children to be okay.
I can't say too much more without spoiling everything, (and the synopsis gives away a lot already), but if you enjoy a good coming of age tale, scoop up this novella quick! Spend some time with Matthew and Jacob. They need your support!
Highly recommended!
*Thanks to Silver Shamrock Publishing for the e-ARC of this book in exchange for my honest feedback. This is it!*
June 24, 2019
Fact: It's part of our human DNA to tell each other stories. I can't exactly tell you why we do this and all the purposes storytelling serves but I do know that our stories act as little bridges spanning the spaces between the storyteller's heart and the hearts of the ones who hear it.
James Newman and Mark Steensland somehow and in some way, collaborated on a coming-of-age story that will forever stay nestled in my reader's heart. I will draw on it over and over again in my recommendations to other readers who cherish horror with heart.
I wish I could unpack all the special nuances that make this story so memorable and unique but it's a novella told in a succinct and intentional fashion--easily spoiled and I would hate to steal anyone's reading discoveries. So I'm going to dance around the actual storyline in order to preserve for YOU the very intimate details you'll enjoy discovering for yourself.
Our protagonists are brothers-Jake and Matthew. I fell in love with them immediately. The authors poured so much life and character into these boys; it was a joy to spend time reading about them and I only wish I could have more time but I'm not one of those readers who complain about the length of a story. Perhaps if this was longer, it wouldn't have felt so perfect? So I appreciate the time I was given by Newman and Steensland.
I'm actually sitting here with my fingers poised over the keys wondering how to explain in this review how magical this book is but the restraint I've put on myself for fear of spoilers is so limiting! Just know there are moments in this story that take your very breath away. Moments that melt your heart. Moments that bring fresh, hot tears and moments that infuriate you...oh! And terrify you. Yes, I was scared.
Listen to me:
Stories like IN THE SCRAPE don't come around as often as I would like. This is exactly what I want to spend my days reading about forever and ever and ever.
It's perfectly paced, the characters are real and true to life. Every detail felt authentic and important. There was a tension that grew organically--never obvious, never forced. There was a complexity to the characters, especially the father that created this conflict in my heart and in my mind--like, I loved my little protagonists so much but there were times where I wondered about their perceived reality and it made for a rich reading experience.
I love this book. I will champion this book forever as a go-to recommendation to anyone who loves a well told, coming-of-age story that delivers on every expectation. Definitely a stand-out book for 2019.
I hope these two authors collaborate again. They truly crafted something special.
James Newman and Mark Steensland somehow and in some way, collaborated on a coming-of-age story that will forever stay nestled in my reader's heart. I will draw on it over and over again in my recommendations to other readers who cherish horror with heart.
I wish I could unpack all the special nuances that make this story so memorable and unique but it's a novella told in a succinct and intentional fashion--easily spoiled and I would hate to steal anyone's reading discoveries. So I'm going to dance around the actual storyline in order to preserve for YOU the very intimate details you'll enjoy discovering for yourself.
Our protagonists are brothers-Jake and Matthew. I fell in love with them immediately. The authors poured so much life and character into these boys; it was a joy to spend time reading about them and I only wish I could have more time but I'm not one of those readers who complain about the length of a story. Perhaps if this was longer, it wouldn't have felt so perfect? So I appreciate the time I was given by Newman and Steensland.
I'm actually sitting here with my fingers poised over the keys wondering how to explain in this review how magical this book is but the restraint I've put on myself for fear of spoilers is so limiting! Just know there are moments in this story that take your very breath away. Moments that melt your heart. Moments that bring fresh, hot tears and moments that infuriate you...oh! And terrify you. Yes, I was scared.
Listen to me:
Stories like IN THE SCRAPE don't come around as often as I would like. This is exactly what I want to spend my days reading about forever and ever and ever.
It's perfectly paced, the characters are real and true to life. Every detail felt authentic and important. There was a tension that grew organically--never obvious, never forced. There was a complexity to the characters, especially the father that created this conflict in my heart and in my mind--like, I loved my little protagonists so much but there were times where I wondered about their perceived reality and it made for a rich reading experience.
I love this book. I will champion this book forever as a go-to recommendation to anyone who loves a well told, coming-of-age story that delivers on every expectation. Definitely a stand-out book for 2019.
I hope these two authors collaborate again. They truly crafted something special.
October 22, 2019
Jake and his younger brother have a plan. They are walking the neighbors pets and doing everything they can to make it come true. What's the plan?
To get away from their abusive father and head to California to live with their mom. She left years ago to get away from butthole dad.
The boys also have to deal with a group of bullies.
There is a lot in this short book and it's done very well. There is one scene in which the dad ends up punishing the younger brother harder just because he knew it would hurt Jake more that hurted my heart. Dad's an ASSHOLE.
The story however is just a tad predictable but I'm still recommending it just because I liked it so dang much.
Booksource: Netgalley in exchange for review
To get away from their abusive father and head to California to live with their mom. She left years ago to get away from butthole dad.
The boys also have to deal with a group of bullies.
There is a lot in this short book and it's done very well. There is one scene in which the dad ends up punishing the younger brother harder just because he knew it would hurt Jake more that hurted my heart. Dad's an ASSHOLE.
The story however is just a tad predictable but I'm still recommending it just because I liked it so dang much.
Booksource: Netgalley in exchange for review
June 25, 2023
Jake and his younger brother Matthew grow up under difficult conditions. Their mother ran away and their father is abusive and has a drinking habit. When he takes his boys to a hunting trip to start the season everything changes. Originally Jake planned to flee their father together with Matthew but then things turn different... this is an extremely well composed, tragic and thrilling coming of age novella. The characters are drawn in an excellent way, the prose is fluent, you simply can't put the book down as you want to know how it ends. Great twist here. Absolutely outstanding reading experience, highly recommended!
October 16, 2019
In The Scrape is a novella that made me feel as if my giant beast of a cat were sitting atop my chest trying his best to stop my heart from beating the entire time I was reading. Not too many books do that to me but put two sweet kids in peril and that’ll do the trick, I guess! This one is a nail-biter and I was incredibly worried for these kids during the entire story. That’s some kind of knock-out writing. I’m glad I’m finished so I can breathe again.
Set in the 80’s, Jacob and Matthew are two brothers plotting to run away from their abusive drunkard of a dad and escape to live with their mom who left them all years ago. Their situation hurts the heart. They’re so young and stuck in a situation that seems completely hopeless but they’re plotting and hopeful anyway. I loved that about them. Such brave and smart young kiddos.
As this is a horror novella and there is a schoolyard bully thrown into the mix, you can expect things to go sideways, plans to go awry and terrible things to happen. And they do, thus explaining the sensation of feeling like my chunker of a cat was cutting off my airway. The plot doesn’t travel down the same path as my brain assumed it would (thankfully because my thoughts were 100% bleak) but I still found myself horrified and surprised by the turn of events which I’m not gonna spoil.
This is a story about tenacity, survival, bravery and brotherly love and facing down terrible odds when those charged with protecting you are the ones you just might fear the most. This is really great, heavy stuff. Much different from the previous collaboration I read with author James Newman, Scapegoat, which had an 80’s feel and madness tinged plot but both are excellent stories. 4 ½ stars
Set in the 80’s, Jacob and Matthew are two brothers plotting to run away from their abusive drunkard of a dad and escape to live with their mom who left them all years ago. Their situation hurts the heart. They’re so young and stuck in a situation that seems completely hopeless but they’re plotting and hopeful anyway. I loved that about them. Such brave and smart young kiddos.
As this is a horror novella and there is a schoolyard bully thrown into the mix, you can expect things to go sideways, plans to go awry and terrible things to happen. And they do, thus explaining the sensation of feeling like my chunker of a cat was cutting off my airway. The plot doesn’t travel down the same path as my brain assumed it would (thankfully because my thoughts were 100% bleak) but I still found myself horrified and surprised by the turn of events which I’m not gonna spoil.
This is a story about tenacity, survival, bravery and brotherly love and facing down terrible odds when those charged with protecting you are the ones you just might fear the most. This is really great, heavy stuff. Much different from the previous collaboration I read with author James Newman, Scapegoat, which had an 80’s feel and madness tinged plot but both are excellent stories. 4 ½ stars
December 9, 2023
In the Scrape is a 2019-Coming of Age Horror novella co-authored by James Newman and Mark Steensland.
James Newman is one of my faves, so when I was gifted an ARC-copy, I was super stoked. Then like a huge jerk, I never got around to it...
As I was considering what to pick up this past Halloween week, this gorgeous Autumnal cover popped into my mind. Now is the time.
In hindsight, I'm irked I had this 5-star read sitting on my Kindle for years. How did I not pay this story the attention it deserves? Hopefully this review will be an impetus for some of you to pick it up. That would help my guilt.
In this story we follow two young brothers, Jake and Matthew. The boys live with their abusive father and dream of nothing but escape. Their plan is to make their way to California, where they can be reunited with the mother they miss terribly.
We are told the story by Jake, who is 13-years old at the time the events take place. He gives us the details of the family dynamic and takes us through the days leading up to their planned escape.
The boys have been very strategic about it, saving money and waiting until the right time. Even during the worst of the abuse, they stay focused on their plan. They see an upcoming family hunting trip as the perfect opportunity.
Unfortunately, just prior to the trip, Jake has a bloody altercation with his arch-nemesis, which not only puts a damper on the funds he was hoping to save, but also brings local law enforcement sniffing around.
Nevertheless, their Dad is determined to make it out to their cabin for the first day of deer season, so off they go. Little does he know that first night is going to find him tied to a chair as his boys forge their escape.
Dad is a beast though, will the boys be able to subdue him enough to actually get away? What if he catches them? Who will survive the night?
This is such an incredible story. I loved it. I immediately could tell this was a Newman; I adore his writing. I've never read from Mark Steensland before, but I trust if Newman is working with him, he's nothing short of brilliant.
Coming of Age is a subgenre of Horror that I tend to vibe with really well. I know when some people think of Horror books, they think, scary books, things that scare me, and then if they don't get scared by a book, they say, this isn't Horror.
For me, Horror is a more nuanced genre than that and thinking only books that literally scare you can be classified as Horror is simplifying the genre unfairly.
I've mentioned this before in other reviews, but this story did such a great job of channeling all of the essential vibes of the subgenre, that I felt it was worth repeating here.
This basically transported me into the lives of these two boys while they were living through what could arguably be the most pivotal year of their childhoods.
In addition to the superb writing, it made me feel so much. By the halfway point, I was commenting how it was breaking my heart. I could feel the pain and desperation of these boys.
The brother's relationship was beautifully done. I could feel the love between them and the push and pull that made that relationship as special as it was. Given their circumstances, it was clear that they were beyond lucky to have one another.
I also loved how the authors continued to build the tension throughout the story as the end approached. They pulled me in, made me 100% committed to the characters and then got my pulse racing with my sights set on the conclusion.
I would absolutely recommend this to anyone who enjoys Coming of Age Horror, or to anyone who is looking to try the subgenre for the first time.
I mean, Coming of Age Horror novellas really don't get much better than this. These authors knocked this out of the park. They made me love Jake and Matthew with my whole heart. In short, this filled my soul.
Thank you so much to the publisher, Silver Shamrock Publishing, for providing me with a copy to read and review.
My only regret is that it took me so long to get to it.
James Newman is one of my faves, so when I was gifted an ARC-copy, I was super stoked. Then like a huge jerk, I never got around to it...
As I was considering what to pick up this past Halloween week, this gorgeous Autumnal cover popped into my mind. Now is the time.
In hindsight, I'm irked I had this 5-star read sitting on my Kindle for years. How did I not pay this story the attention it deserves? Hopefully this review will be an impetus for some of you to pick it up. That would help my guilt.
In this story we follow two young brothers, Jake and Matthew. The boys live with their abusive father and dream of nothing but escape. Their plan is to make their way to California, where they can be reunited with the mother they miss terribly.
We are told the story by Jake, who is 13-years old at the time the events take place. He gives us the details of the family dynamic and takes us through the days leading up to their planned escape.
The boys have been very strategic about it, saving money and waiting until the right time. Even during the worst of the abuse, they stay focused on their plan. They see an upcoming family hunting trip as the perfect opportunity.
Unfortunately, just prior to the trip, Jake has a bloody altercation with his arch-nemesis, which not only puts a damper on the funds he was hoping to save, but also brings local law enforcement sniffing around.
Nevertheless, their Dad is determined to make it out to their cabin for the first day of deer season, so off they go. Little does he know that first night is going to find him tied to a chair as his boys forge their escape.
Dad is a beast though, will the boys be able to subdue him enough to actually get away? What if he catches them? Who will survive the night?
This is such an incredible story. I loved it. I immediately could tell this was a Newman; I adore his writing. I've never read from Mark Steensland before, but I trust if Newman is working with him, he's nothing short of brilliant.
Coming of Age is a subgenre of Horror that I tend to vibe with really well. I know when some people think of Horror books, they think, scary books, things that scare me, and then if they don't get scared by a book, they say, this isn't Horror.
For me, Horror is a more nuanced genre than that and thinking only books that literally scare you can be classified as Horror is simplifying the genre unfairly.
I've mentioned this before in other reviews, but this story did such a great job of channeling all of the essential vibes of the subgenre, that I felt it was worth repeating here.
This basically transported me into the lives of these two boys while they were living through what could arguably be the most pivotal year of their childhoods.
In addition to the superb writing, it made me feel so much. By the halfway point, I was commenting how it was breaking my heart. I could feel the pain and desperation of these boys.
The brother's relationship was beautifully done. I could feel the love between them and the push and pull that made that relationship as special as it was. Given their circumstances, it was clear that they were beyond lucky to have one another.
I also loved how the authors continued to build the tension throughout the story as the end approached. They pulled me in, made me 100% committed to the characters and then got my pulse racing with my sights set on the conclusion.
I would absolutely recommend this to anyone who enjoys Coming of Age Horror, or to anyone who is looking to try the subgenre for the first time.
I mean, Coming of Age Horror novellas really don't get much better than this. These authors knocked this out of the park. They made me love Jake and Matthew with my whole heart. In short, this filled my soul.
Thank you so much to the publisher, Silver Shamrock Publishing, for providing me with a copy to read and review.
My only regret is that it took me so long to get to it.
February 4, 2023
What do you do when you can't trust the one person who is supposed to look out for you? The two brothers in this story have recently had their mother leave and their alcoholic father is heavy handed in his treatment of them. Not to mention the school bully who torments them. While this story uses familiar tropes, what makes it unique is the way the story plays out. The father is a jerk but also seems to care for his boys...to an extent. This leaves the reader questioning if the boys are seeing him as crueler than he is, or also a victim of circumstance. A hunting trip and a plan of escape take a wrong turn, uncovering truths they didn't see coming.
This was a quick read and flowed without any hiccups. It works well as a novella even though it could have been expanded into a longer story. I found myself rooting for the boys and tense the whole time, knowing any misstep could put them in a world of hurt.
This was a quick read and flowed without any hiccups. It works well as a novella even though it could have been expanded into a longer story. I found myself rooting for the boys and tense the whole time, knowing any misstep could put them in a world of hurt.
August 6, 2019
If it’s one thing James Newman knows how to do, it’s write an engaging coming-of-age tale. MIDNIGHT RAIN and ODD MAN OUT are as required a readings as is BOY’S LIFE when it comes to COA. With IN THE SCRAPE, I think him and Steensland have reached new heights. IN THE SCRAPE is as raw, gritty, and disturbing as ODD MAN OUT, but also has the rollercoaster journey paved with danger and pitfalls like MIDNIGHT RAIN.
Brothers Jake and Matthew live with their abusive, alcoholic father after their mother left them when they were younger. Jake and Matthew long for the day when they can escape their everyday life of hell and reunite with their mother in California. They haven’t heard from her since she left. They have no idea where in California she lives. All they know is they can’t take the abuse anymore. They want a normal life in a loving household and to do that, they have to take care of their father before he takes care of them - PERMANENTLY.
Jake and Matthews plight is as real and raw as it gets. You feel so bad for what they have to live with that you actually start rooting for their plan to work. Newman and Steensland’s collaboration is seamless. You can’t tell where one writer ended and the other started. Like a well oiled machine, IN THE SCRAPE is a fast 100 pages. I wolfed it down in one sitting. I simply couldn’t put it down. If you’ve never read Newman or Steensland’s work, IN THE SCRAPE is a great place to start.
5 Rolls of Duct Tape out of 5
You can also follow my reviews at the following links:
https://intothemacabre.com
http://intothemacabre.booklikes.com
https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/5...
Brothers Jake and Matthew live with their abusive, alcoholic father after their mother left them when they were younger. Jake and Matthew long for the day when they can escape their everyday life of hell and reunite with their mother in California. They haven’t heard from her since she left. They have no idea where in California she lives. All they know is they can’t take the abuse anymore. They want a normal life in a loving household and to do that, they have to take care of their father before he takes care of them - PERMANENTLY.
Jake and Matthews plight is as real and raw as it gets. You feel so bad for what they have to live with that you actually start rooting for their plan to work. Newman and Steensland’s collaboration is seamless. You can’t tell where one writer ended and the other started. Like a well oiled machine, IN THE SCRAPE is a fast 100 pages. I wolfed it down in one sitting. I simply couldn’t put it down. If you’ve never read Newman or Steensland’s work, IN THE SCRAPE is a great place to start.
5 Rolls of Duct Tape out of 5
You can also follow my reviews at the following links:
https://intothemacabre.com
http://intothemacabre.booklikes.com
https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/5...
January 31, 2023
This novella is highly recommended, it is heartbreaking from the moment you start it. The whole story drags you in and you want to know how it ends for those 2 boys. The story will let you feel different emotions. The characters are well built. The authors did a great job on this novella and I will keep an eye out for them! So that is why this book gets a well deserved 5 points!
This is a ARC from the publisher via Netgalley, which I got for an honest review.
This is a ARC from the publisher via Netgalley, which I got for an honest review.
June 24, 2019
In The Scrape is a fast paced novella easily consumable in a single sitting. The story is engaging and draws the reader in with it's well defined characters and heartfelt domestic struggle involving two young brothers forced to live in an adult world driven by violence and blanketed in despair.
Jacob and Matthew live with the knowledge that their absentee mother didn't want them and their father doesn't care for them. Then there's the group of bullies at school who torment the two, leaving mouths bloody and self-esteem scared. Life isn't great. The only way out is to run away with little more than shirts on their backs and a bag of golden age comic books to sell. Of course it's easier to plan than to do, which the brothers soon learn...
In The Scrape is a story of persistence, resilience, and unexpected twists. Anchored by domestic drama, the themes will hit home with fathers/mothers who can't help but feel for the brothers struggle.
Jacob and Matthew live with the knowledge that their absentee mother didn't want them and their father doesn't care for them. Then there's the group of bullies at school who torment the two, leaving mouths bloody and self-esteem scared. Life isn't great. The only way out is to run away with little more than shirts on their backs and a bag of golden age comic books to sell. Of course it's easier to plan than to do, which the brothers soon learn...
In The Scrape is a story of persistence, resilience, and unexpected twists. Anchored by domestic drama, the themes will hit home with fathers/mothers who can't help but feel for the brothers struggle.
June 10, 2019
Two brothers trying to survive their abusive father. All they want is to escape to California where their mother is. Jake decides a hunting trip will be the perfect time to get away. Well, nothing ever goes to plan does it? This is a short read at just 108 pages but the story James Newman and Mark Steensland fit in those pages is great. I felt so bad for Jake. I'm the big sister so i can relate to being brave for your siblings and wanting to protect them. The hunting trip was a surprise i didn't see coming. I could not tell which author wrote what part or were they changed. I look forward to reading more by both these gentlemen.
October 14, 2021
Wow...what a great coming-of-age tale. Gritty suspense that fully satisfied. Fantastic job, James and Mark.
November 19, 2025
3.5 stars. I think that James Newman is a solid writer. And this brought me back to the movie Radio Flyer. Coming from a very unpleasant and abusive upbringing, I was immediately pulled into this plot. Jake and Mathew were terrific leads and the author managed to nail the strong bond they had. The story began well and seemed to be heading somewhere significant and meaningful. However, the latter portion just became this unbelievable bloodbath, making it seem like two different stories mashed together. Like a hard shift from a drama into a horror. It wasn’t bad, but there was a very strong disconnect. If this maintained the pace of having the boys just dealing with their abusive father, eliminating their bully, Caleb, and his father, or just focusing on the latter, it would have come across much better. Just too many different directions that threw off the flow of everything, and a general lack of focus. Still a decent read, but not Newman’s best.
July 17, 2019
IN THE SCRAPE is a novella by James Newman and Mark Streensland. While I'm familiar with Newman's work, I wasn't as sure about Streenslands's style, and how the two would merge together. After reading this story, I can honestly say that I couldn't tell you where one author stopped and the other began.
This novella had a strong "coming-of-age" theme wound around an emotional rollercoaster of events. The two boys, thirteen year-old Jake and nine year-old Matthew, were completely real to me, in all ways. Their thoughts, dialog, actions, and most of all--confusion--all rang true in the situation they were in.
"The world is a scary place for a kid. It's even scarier when you're forced to watch your back because those that are supposed to protect you are those you should fear the most . . . "
The other element that I have to praise is that of the main antagonist, the villain, in this case the boys' father. This wasn't a man that was "clearly" evil--he was shown as a much more complex character than that. Yes, he was a bad father; however, in the next scene he could be sticking up for his kids, or praising them for something or other. While adults could easily see the "bad" angle to Kurt Braderson, to his youngest son, things weren't so "black-and-white".
". . . A guy can't help what's in his blood."
The story gives us a good sense of what it's like to be these two boys, and the situations they had to face day to day. While the youngest was torn with emotional turmoil, the oldest takes on the role of protector. This seemed quite natural and consistent with the story's direction. In addition to their home issues, there are bullies to contend with, unsafe environmental factors, and the always present, school.
". . . It was as if the new city park that had opened . . . on the opposite side of town had leached all life from this one . . . "
There were certain issues that I found fairly predictable here, as well as a few things that didn't feel completely necessary. However, aside from these instances, I felt that this novella was a great read, especially in regards to character development.
". . . That's the thing about lying, though. You start doubting everything around you, can't tell the difference between what's real and what's not . . . "
Overall, a strong coming-of-age story with some original characters, believable motivations, good action scenes, and one that will hold you an emotional prisoner until the very end.
Recommended.
This novella had a strong "coming-of-age" theme wound around an emotional rollercoaster of events. The two boys, thirteen year-old Jake and nine year-old Matthew, were completely real to me, in all ways. Their thoughts, dialog, actions, and most of all--confusion--all rang true in the situation they were in.
"The world is a scary place for a kid. It's even scarier when you're forced to watch your back because those that are supposed to protect you are those you should fear the most . . . "
The other element that I have to praise is that of the main antagonist, the villain, in this case the boys' father. This wasn't a man that was "clearly" evil--he was shown as a much more complex character than that. Yes, he was a bad father; however, in the next scene he could be sticking up for his kids, or praising them for something or other. While adults could easily see the "bad" angle to Kurt Braderson, to his youngest son, things weren't so "black-and-white".
". . . A guy can't help what's in his blood."
The story gives us a good sense of what it's like to be these two boys, and the situations they had to face day to day. While the youngest was torn with emotional turmoil, the oldest takes on the role of protector. This seemed quite natural and consistent with the story's direction. In addition to their home issues, there are bullies to contend with, unsafe environmental factors, and the always present, school.
". . . It was as if the new city park that had opened . . . on the opposite side of town had leached all life from this one . . . "
There were certain issues that I found fairly predictable here, as well as a few things that didn't feel completely necessary. However, aside from these instances, I felt that this novella was a great read, especially in regards to character development.
". . . That's the thing about lying, though. You start doubting everything around you, can't tell the difference between what's real and what's not . . . "
Overall, a strong coming-of-age story with some original characters, believable motivations, good action scenes, and one that will hold you an emotional prisoner until the very end.
Recommended.
July 12, 2019
James Newman and Mark Steensland nail this emotionally charged, coming of age novella. These guys are good. Seriously, good.
Jake and Matthew are only kids, but they can already see that they will need to do something about their current situation, or they may not make it to adulthood. Blinded by a dream of a perfect life out in California, they set a plan in motion that will change their lives forever.
The writing here is crisp and lean, with powerful layers of feeling that grow in intensity as the boys plans start to move. James and Mark work seamlessly together and the result is a great piece of fiction. Look forward to anything these guys write – together or separately.
I would like to thank Ken at Silver Shamrock Publishing for the review copy. Thanks, dude! I have a feeling SSP is really going to take off.
Jake and Matthew are only kids, but they can already see that they will need to do something about their current situation, or they may not make it to adulthood. Blinded by a dream of a perfect life out in California, they set a plan in motion that will change their lives forever.
The writing here is crisp and lean, with powerful layers of feeling that grow in intensity as the boys plans start to move. James and Mark work seamlessly together and the result is a great piece of fiction. Look forward to anything these guys write – together or separately.
I would like to thank Ken at Silver Shamrock Publishing for the review copy. Thanks, dude! I have a feeling SSP is really going to take off.
July 11, 2019
4.0 Stars
This was an absolutely gripping novella that first pulled on my heart strings and then got my blood pumping.
This story started out as a dark, slow burning, coming of age story. I immediately felt an emotional connection to the protagonist and his younger brother, who were both very likeable and well developed. Personally, I find stories of parental abuse particularly interesting and was pulled into this harrowing tale. However the focus of the story changed significantly in the second half when the boys finally attempted to escape their father. At this point, the narrative became much more fast paced and action packed, reading more like a thriller. While a bit predictable in places, I still enjoyed this later section, which got my heart racing.
This was my second time reading work by Newman and I was again very impressed by his knack for storytelling. I would love to read more by both authors in the future.
I would recommend this novella to fans of coming of age stories and dark suspense who want an emotional, yet exciting read.
Disclaimer: I received a digital copy of this novella for review via Netgalley.
This was an absolutely gripping novella that first pulled on my heart strings and then got my blood pumping.
This story started out as a dark, slow burning, coming of age story. I immediately felt an emotional connection to the protagonist and his younger brother, who were both very likeable and well developed. Personally, I find stories of parental abuse particularly interesting and was pulled into this harrowing tale. However the focus of the story changed significantly in the second half when the boys finally attempted to escape their father. At this point, the narrative became much more fast paced and action packed, reading more like a thriller. While a bit predictable in places, I still enjoyed this later section, which got my heart racing.
This was my second time reading work by Newman and I was again very impressed by his knack for storytelling. I would love to read more by both authors in the future.
I would recommend this novella to fans of coming of age stories and dark suspense who want an emotional, yet exciting read.
Disclaimer: I received a digital copy of this novella for review via Netgalley.
June 9, 2019
The story of two young brothers trying to escape an abusive and neglectful father to get to the mother that left them years before. Couldn't help but feel badly for the boys. Not a happy tale but well written and well worth reading.
June 15, 2019
Two young brothers formulate a daring plan to escape from the cruel attentions of their abusive father, and find their long lost mother.
The best laid plans of mice and boys...because their father isn't the only threat standing in their way.
A poignant, heartbreaking coming of age novella, IN THE SCRAPE delivers on an emotionally visceral level.....from the power of love, to the chains that abuse forge, to the strength that comes when one pushes the innocent to their limits...and then over those limits.
James Newman and Mark Steensland work together is flawless, their writing styles melding together perfectly, becoming one powerful, compelling voice.
This is a team readers need to keep their eye on.....along with Silver Shamrock Publishing.
Well done.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to Silver Shamrock Publishing for the eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Expected publication: July 1st, 2019.
July 7, 2019
This was an engrossing, heart-wrenching coming-of-age story that grabbed me from the get-go. I read it all in one sitting and will definitely re-read it again soon. I'm always a little skeptical when two authors team up, but in this one Newman's and Steensland's writing styles fuse together so well you can't tell where one starts and the other ends. The story flows seamlessly. The plot plays out perfectly. I loved it and highly recommend it.
July 5, 2019
I really enjoyed this coming of age tale that involved two brothers and the situation that was plaguing their life. A harrowing tale with a bittersweet ending. I love stories like this because they make you feel, even though reading about abuse and neglect is hard. The authors did a great job on this one. Definitely recommend. Only issue I had was that I wished it to be longer.
June 15, 2019
Wow. I read this book in a single sitting last night and I'm shocked it only has two reviews over here so far. I'll have a full review on Ink Heist soon but wanted to put a couple of pennies in here too. In the Scrape absolutely owned me cover to cover. It was a book I picked up intending merely to peruse the first few pages and ended up reading the entire thing in two or three extremely short hours. Amazing storytelling, perfect characters presented with just the right amount of backstory, and a host of potential antagonists make this a perfect summer read (or anytime read, really). It's a story loaded with conflict, both physical and emotional, and I guarantee it will both steal your breath away and break your heart. Newman and Steenslands voices meld seamlessly into an integrated whole without any disconnect between the points where one author leaves off and the other begins and I can't recommend this book with high enough praise to do it justice. Read it and you'll know what I mean.
July 7, 2019
4.5 stars
Brothers Jake and Matthew Bradersen, aged thirteen and nine, respectively, are determined to save enough money to flee from their abusive alcoholic father. They intend to travel to California to find their mother, who, according to their father, abandoned them years back.
The opportunity to run away finally presents itself during a weekend hunting trip. Matthew is sure that his plan will work. Unfortunately, there’s no way he could account for those who have followed them, intent upon settling a score with some old-fashioned frontier justice. Will the boys escape unharmed?
It’s hard to believe that this book has two authors given how smooth and consistent the writing is. It never feels out of sync or disjointed in any way. Rather, the storytelling is brilliant and highly engrossing. The characters are well-developed and relatable. I immediately bonded with both brothers and sympathized with all they had to endure.
The latter half of the story is wonderfully suspenseful and action-packed. Though a tad predictable, I enjoyed this book immensely.
Brothers Jake and Matthew Bradersen, aged thirteen and nine, respectively, are determined to save enough money to flee from their abusive alcoholic father. They intend to travel to California to find their mother, who, according to their father, abandoned them years back.
The opportunity to run away finally presents itself during a weekend hunting trip. Matthew is sure that his plan will work. Unfortunately, there’s no way he could account for those who have followed them, intent upon settling a score with some old-fashioned frontier justice. Will the boys escape unharmed?
It’s hard to believe that this book has two authors given how smooth and consistent the writing is. It never feels out of sync or disjointed in any way. Rather, the storytelling is brilliant and highly engrossing. The characters are well-developed and relatable. I immediately bonded with both brothers and sympathized with all they had to endure.
The latter half of the story is wonderfully suspenseful and action-packed. Though a tad predictable, I enjoyed this book immensely.
January 9, 2021
In the Scrape is a coming of age novella about two brothers, Matthew and Jake, and their lives with their abusive father. Let me tell you that this short book packs a punch much heavier than its word length. You really feel for what the young brothers are going through, and as I've said before, if a book can do that it's a definite keeper.
All of the time you are reading you know that *something* awful is going to happen, and it's this build up of dread that is done so well. Fine writers take your heart and squeeze it slowly, and this is exactly the experience you get with this story.
Pick it up and I promise you won't be disappointed!
All of the time you are reading you know that *something* awful is going to happen, and it's this build up of dread that is done so well. Fine writers take your heart and squeeze it slowly, and this is exactly the experience you get with this story.
Pick it up and I promise you won't be disappointed!
June 11, 2019
** Edited as review is now live on Kendall Reviews! **
This isn’t how I normally like to start my reviews. But I have to. If you’ve read any of my own books or read any of my interviews, you’ll know that growing up, the woods/forests played a big role in my life and in pretty much all of my releases they play a significant part as well.
When you factor that into what I personally love to read, well, this book was written as though Steensland and Newman wanted to write a book just for Steve the reader. If this was the case – job well done, good sirs.
The team that brought you the horrifyingly awesome ‘The Special’ have returned, but this time we’re dealing with real-life terror. This is a dark, sad tale of two young boys, coming of age under the guidance of an abusive, alcoholic father. They’ve been told their mom didn’t want to be their mom anymore and left when they were little. Now the boys have plotted a plan to buy two tickets and to flee to California to reunite with their mom. This all occurs with the pending start of hunting season. Where they will head to their grandpa’s old hunting cabin.
I read this tale in one sitting and it’s one of those novellas that demands to be devoured. The words flow off the page and as the two authors throw in more back story and a side narrative of bullying, you grow more and more connected to the two boys. Much like in ‘The Special’ the true gift of this story is that you know things are going to get worse. You know that as you keep flipping through the pages that pretty soon the big ‘event’ will occur and forever change how our characters see life.
When this happens, the two authors shine and as the ending unravels and things go from bad to worse, you just keep on holding out hope for those two young boys, because you’ve created that dreaded reader/character bond that so often ends with our reader’s hearts shattered.
One thing I really loved about this story was the inclusion of the epilogue. So often a book ends and that’s it – over and done with. Thankfully the authors offer us some ‘closure.’ Sorry, that’s the best I can do staying spoiler free and trust me, I want to tell you everything that happens here because the events that occur are… just wow.
Two last things I’d like to point out.
The first is that these two authors blend so well together, write so well together that you’d be hard-pressed to figure out if they each wrote a chapter and passed the story back and forth, or if one wrote the basis and the other then re-worked the source material. However it was done – it flows.
The second is that this story lends itself so well to the big screen. I could almost hear the narrator doing voiceover’s at certain parts and with the recent news and info about ‘The Special,’ I wouldn’t be surprised if the authors found themselves with another film based on their work shortly.
This was a heart-breaking, coming-of-age tale that will stay with you for some time.
This isn’t how I normally like to start my reviews. But I have to. If you’ve read any of my own books or read any of my interviews, you’ll know that growing up, the woods/forests played a big role in my life and in pretty much all of my releases they play a significant part as well.
When you factor that into what I personally love to read, well, this book was written as though Steensland and Newman wanted to write a book just for Steve the reader. If this was the case – job well done, good sirs.
The team that brought you the horrifyingly awesome ‘The Special’ have returned, but this time we’re dealing with real-life terror. This is a dark, sad tale of two young boys, coming of age under the guidance of an abusive, alcoholic father. They’ve been told their mom didn’t want to be their mom anymore and left when they were little. Now the boys have plotted a plan to buy two tickets and to flee to California to reunite with their mom. This all occurs with the pending start of hunting season. Where they will head to their grandpa’s old hunting cabin.
I read this tale in one sitting and it’s one of those novellas that demands to be devoured. The words flow off the page and as the two authors throw in more back story and a side narrative of bullying, you grow more and more connected to the two boys. Much like in ‘The Special’ the true gift of this story is that you know things are going to get worse. You know that as you keep flipping through the pages that pretty soon the big ‘event’ will occur and forever change how our characters see life.
When this happens, the two authors shine and as the ending unravels and things go from bad to worse, you just keep on holding out hope for those two young boys, because you’ve created that dreaded reader/character bond that so often ends with our reader’s hearts shattered.
One thing I really loved about this story was the inclusion of the epilogue. So often a book ends and that’s it – over and done with. Thankfully the authors offer us some ‘closure.’ Sorry, that’s the best I can do staying spoiler free and trust me, I want to tell you everything that happens here because the events that occur are… just wow.
Two last things I’d like to point out.
The first is that these two authors blend so well together, write so well together that you’d be hard-pressed to figure out if they each wrote a chapter and passed the story back and forth, or if one wrote the basis and the other then re-worked the source material. However it was done – it flows.
The second is that this story lends itself so well to the big screen. I could almost hear the narrator doing voiceover’s at certain parts and with the recent news and info about ‘The Special,’ I wouldn’t be surprised if the authors found themselves with another film based on their work shortly.
This was a heart-breaking, coming-of-age tale that will stay with you for some time.
July 24, 2019
All the stars!
It’s past midnight as I sit here, trying to gather my thoughts to write this review. Not because I don’t have anything to say, but because I was blown away by this story.
There’s something magical about coming of age stories — the well-executed ones, at least. They have such moving power, it’s quite hard to explain. If you get what I mean, then you know it.
What James and Mark did here is pure magic!
The writing is flawless, the story is as engaging as it gets, and it will haunt you (even when you’re not reading it).
Let me give you a taste:
“In The Scrape” is a story about two young brothers, Matthew and Jake.
We witness the struggles and misadventures of the boys, as they go on about their lives while dealing with their abusive father.
They secretly plan to run away and go live with their mom. Which, according to their father, left the boys behind when she moved to California.
Not everything goes according to plan!
And that’s pretty much all I’ll be able to tell you.
This book packs such a punch in its 100 or so pages.
It was my first time reading both authors, need I say it won’t my last?
Go on, read this one as soon as you can!
Huge thanks to Silver Shamrock Publishing and NetGalley for sending me a copy of the book to review.
It’s past midnight as I sit here, trying to gather my thoughts to write this review. Not because I don’t have anything to say, but because I was blown away by this story.
There’s something magical about coming of age stories — the well-executed ones, at least. They have such moving power, it’s quite hard to explain. If you get what I mean, then you know it.
What James and Mark did here is pure magic!
The writing is flawless, the story is as engaging as it gets, and it will haunt you (even when you’re not reading it).
Let me give you a taste:
“The sky is the color of concrete… gray as far as the eye can see, like the walls of a maximum-security prison or, worse yet, summer school. It is a sky that holds the threat of rain, maybe even the first snow of the season. The air is cold. The trees are bare and black, like the silhouettes of skeletal hands reaching toward the heavens. Fog swirls about on the forest floor, like ghosts gathered here to conspire about things only the dead can know.”
“In The Scrape” is a story about two young brothers, Matthew and Jake.
We witness the struggles and misadventures of the boys, as they go on about their lives while dealing with their abusive father.
They secretly plan to run away and go live with their mom. Which, according to their father, left the boys behind when she moved to California.
Not everything goes according to plan!
And that’s pretty much all I’ll be able to tell you.
This book packs such a punch in its 100 or so pages.
It was my first time reading both authors, need I say it won’t my last?
Go on, read this one as soon as you can!
Huge thanks to Silver Shamrock Publishing and NetGalley for sending me a copy of the book to review.
July 5, 2019
Drama filled coming-of-age story
Jake is 13 years old and his little brother, Matthew, is nine. Life has become unbearable for the two brothers. Their mother up and left years ago and their father is a mean alcoholic who thinks nothing of beating on the boys and also verbally and emotionally abusing them.
Their plan is to save enough money and run away from home, trying to find their mother in California.
I saw this novella reviewed a few times lately and receiving high ratings. I like coming-of-age stories and thought I'd read it myself. I'm glad I did. Be warned: There are definite triggers in this story concerning different types of abuse.
I thought the story flowed well. I liked the two brothers. I highly recommend this fast-paced story.
I received this book from Silver Shamrock Publishing through Net Galley in the hopes that I would read it and leave an unbiased review.
Jake is 13 years old and his little brother, Matthew, is nine. Life has become unbearable for the two brothers. Their mother up and left years ago and their father is a mean alcoholic who thinks nothing of beating on the boys and also verbally and emotionally abusing them.
Their plan is to save enough money and run away from home, trying to find their mother in California.
I saw this novella reviewed a few times lately and receiving high ratings. I like coming-of-age stories and thought I'd read it myself. I'm glad I did. Be warned: There are definite triggers in this story concerning different types of abuse.
I thought the story flowed well. I liked the two brothers. I highly recommend this fast-paced story.
I received this book from Silver Shamrock Publishing through Net Galley in the hopes that I would read it and leave an unbiased review.
July 15, 2019
If you ask me, a good horror or dark drama story is one that sticks with you long after you turn the last page. I thought this was one of those. While not a typical "horror" story, I found this on the terrifying side all because of the "monster" in the book. It wasn't a ghost, zombie, vampire, or possessed thing. No just like Shinedown's these boy's monster is REAL. And instead of protecting them and nurturing them, it made one grow up well beyond his years, and made the other severely regress.
January 7, 2020
A heartbreaking and immersive tale of two young brothers searching for a way to escape their abusive father. I was drawn in to the story from the first page and was fully engaged with the characters within a very short time, no mean feat with such a short novella. I kind of guessed how it was going to play out but this didn't lessen my enjoyment at all, I was still rooting for those boys. 4 stars, many thanks to the publishers and Netgalley for the ARC.
April 22, 2022
This coming of age story was beyond heartbreaking. I woke up running to find out what was in store for these two brothers. The love and sacrifices made for each other was beautiful. Not a single thing could have made this story any better. If possible I would give it a 10 ⭐️review.
July 5, 2019
Quintessential coming of age story told using all the quintessential coming of age story components and doing so well and succinctly. I’ve read Newman before (pure form, no collaborations, which seem slightly weird to me, but that’s neither here nor there), so I was expecting quality and quality was there to be found. This is a tale of two young brothers desperate to get away from their abusive alcoholic father and go find their mother, who left them some years ago for sunny California. Specifically, this is a tale of when the brothers finally put a plan together and the violent tragic way it plays out. Why is it that most books featuring teenage protagonists read like a properly dumbed down YA fiction, but stories with young kids come across so potently engaging. The boys in this story are great, they carry the entire thing on their shoulders never once faltering. The book is narrated by a grown up version of one of them (as these things often are), which cuts down the suspense of the outcome somewhat, but also ups the intimacy of the narration, so…maybe that’s a wash. But their story does engage you, almost immediately, and you spent the entire book hoping things work out for them. There are even some subtle nuances in the character of the father, so that he isn’t just a prototypical small minded small town violent alcoholic, although he’s pretty close to the cliché. But essentially there’s enough here in such a slim volume to tell a good, emotionally compelling story. Kudos. It’s such a quick read (maybe 75 minutes or so) and well worth it. Very enjoyable story. Recommended. Thanks Netgalley.
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