A review by sdsmith80
The Handyman Method by Andrew F. Sullivan, Nick Cutter

adventurous challenging dark emotional funny mysterious sad tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

<b>Toxic Masculinity is Terrifying!</b>

I heard so much praise for this book, I was both excited to dive in, and afraid it wouldn't live up to the hype. Luckily, it very much did. This book made me so uncomfortable and hurt my heart at times. These are the traits I'm looking for in books! 

The first thing that popped into my head was "does too much Home Depot cause toxic masculinity?" Obviously I knew that wasn't what was going on, but damn. Also I love the Home Depot contractors. I could totally picture them in my mind. I even saw a little of myself in his addiction to the store, although without the negative traits. I just really want to buy all the equipment and fix up our house! 

As Trent's attitude and behaviors got worse, I was so incredibly uncomfortable. Especially with the incident on the playset. My kiddos have some similar qualities to Milo, so it HURT. I will say that was the hardest part of the book for me to get through, personally. I just have to say, sometimes someone you love, not understanding you, and intentionally not even making an effort to, can feel worse than any physical abuse. 

There was also a decent about of gore and body horror. Some of the things that really got me were the fingernail, Ned, and a moment that makes me wonder, what does Nick Cutter have against *******‽ Again, trying to avoid spoilers, lol. 

Overall this was a dark, distributing, yet at times humorous, book. More than anything, it's made me hate the color pink! I don't know if I'll be able to stomach Pepto Bismol every again! I can't wait to check out both author's books in my TBR. 

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