CLEAR-CUTS

by Joshua S. Narins

From the author of False Neutral comes Clear-Cuts , a raw, visceral, unflinching tale about the ties that bind coming unbound. Set in the rough-hewn woods of northern Maine, Clear-Cuts is a tense, fast-paced New England narrative related in Mr. Narins’ trademark compact time signature. Piercing and resolute in tone, relentless and unwavering in storytelling, Clear-Cuts is a dynamic, immersive reading experience for plot-centric devotees and character-driven fiction fans alike.

238 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 6, 2023

About the author

Prior to embarking on a writing career, Joshua was a veteran Director of Photography. In addition to Principal Unit Production, he specialized in all aspects of Underwater, Aerial and 2nd Unit Cinematography.

Joshua lensed work on projects ranging from studio features to independent films, foreign and cable films, national and international commercial campaigns, and special-venue projects.

Joshua returned from New York City to once again reside in his native New England.

Reviews

[Joseph Howse · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Wall Street trader has planned his triumphal return to backwoods Maine, where he brings chaos into the family life of his introverted brother. With a photographer's eye and a satirical bent, Joshua Narins has produced a literary page-turner in this story of aggression, reversals, and two imperilled versions of American aspiration.

[Deborah Rothman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the story of a family from northern Maine finally falling completely apart. The narrative jumps back and forth in time to relate the story of two brothers, Jack and Michael. They never had a loving relationship and now it breaks down completely. They become drunken killers, although they can't do even that effectively. They and little Michael's mother spend too much time drinking and feeling sorry for themselves, and almost destroy the little boy who may be either of theirs. They claim to love him, but apparently have no notion of how to love anyone. All of their futures look bleak.

This is a detailed but fast-paced read. I'm glad that I read it.

[Ar Jay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mr Narins’ Clear-Cuts is a gripping exploration of Family, secrets and the complexities of human nature. It is filled with complex characters and unexpected twist and turn. The Author has a keen eye for detail which makes the character well developed. It’s a must read for those who appreciate well-crafted story telling and unforgettable characters.

[Billy Buttons · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
26th December 2023
TITLE: Clear-Cuts, A Novel
AUTHOR: Joshua S. Narins


Star Rating: 5

‘A strongly plotted, often gritty novel filled with fully formed, complex characters.’ The Wishing Shelf

REVIEW
I must say, I very much enjoyed this gritty, character-led novel from the pen of talented author, Joshua S. Narins. Concisely written, this family drama works hard to offer the reader a compelling insight into sibling rivalry. Mr Narins is, in many ways, a man of few words; there’s very little in the way of flowery prose here; it’s all very tight, compact, with excellent pacing. Jane Austen would turn in her grave!
So, what’s it about? Well, in a nutshell, it’s the story of Jack Dougherty who returns home for the funeral of his father. What follows is very much a dark, family drama, with plenty of sparks flying between Jack and his younger brother, Michael. Another character, Jacqueline, also brings much to the story; so much so, she almost steals the show.
There were many elements to this novel I particularly enjoyed. Firstly, the author works hard to bring the characters to life. As a result, the reader gets to know them, warts and all. And, trust me when I tell you, there are plenty of warts with this cast of characters! I also enjoyed the no-nonsense writing style; saying that, it is literary in parts, but the author seems to understand the importance of pacing, and keeps things moving all the way to the end. Finally, the author’s a dab hand with dialogue, using it to successfully develop his characters and the plot.
So, of you happen to be looking for a well-written story that’s sexy, satirical, and gritty you’ll probably enjoy Clear-Cuts. I think most readers will enjoy the 1990s setting, and the general unpredictability of the plot and the characters.
All in all, it’s a bit of a gem.

‘Wishing Shelf’ Book Review
www.thewsa.co.uk




This book was entered in The Wishing Shelf Book Awards. This is what our readers thought:
Title: CLEAR-CUTS
Author: JOSHUA S. NARINS

Star Rating: 5 Stars
Number of Readers: 15
Stats
Editing: 9/10
Writing Style: 8/10
Content: 8/10
Cover: 3/5

Of the 15 readers:
13 would read another book by this author.
8 thought the cover was good or excellent.
15 felt it was easy to follow.
13 would recommend this book to another reader to try.
Of all the readers, 3 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘plotting a story’.
Of all the readers, 8 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘developing the characters’.
Of all the readers, 4 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘writing style’.
15 felt the pacing was good or excellent.
13 thought the author understood the readership and what they wanted.

Readers’ Comments
“Enjoyed this character-led drama. Admittedly, the writing style is very simple, but it results in excellent pacing. Plenty of drama, the setting is cool, and there’s never a dull moment.” Male reader, aged 55
“A family drama focusing on two brothers. Lots of rivalry, snappy speech and plenty of twists to keep readers turning the page. The author is a strong writer who is good at plotting, but excels in character development.” Female reader, aged 65
“If you enjoy sharp dialogue, angst, and characters which simply jump off the page, this novel is for you. I got into it from the first chapter. I personally think False Neutral (another of the author’s novels) is stronger, but I still enjoyed this tightly written drama.” Male reader, aged 43

To Sum It Up:
‘A compelling, family drama filled with memorable characters. A FINALIST and highly recommended!’ The Wishing Shelf Book Awards

[Julie Jordan · Rating 5 out of 5]

powerfully prophetic dream of a story where actions have consequences

Dallas and Succession, rolled into one. Good fun; artful retelling of Bonfire of the Vanities, 2023 style. Well written and scary