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Book Review of Blood in the Cut

Blood in the Cut
VolunteerVal avatar reviewed on + 644 more book reviews


Blood in the Cut, the debut novel by Alejandro Nodarse, is definitely a "dude book" in my opinion. The title and cover were clues, and the plot and male cast support the theme. I enjoy stepping out of my usual genres from time to time, and this was a gritty visit to present-day Miami.

The story features the Guerras, a Cuban-American family grieving the death of their matriarch. Son Iggy was just released from prison, and while reacclimating to society and reconnecting with family and friends, he learns the family business, a butcher shop, is struggling. He feels responsible, so he involves himself in its operation and makes some shocking discoveries which lead to an exciting mystery to solve.

If the reality TV shows The Butcher and Swamp People had a baby and added a dash of classic car love, it would be this book. It includes plenty of violence, which isn't my preference, but I could relate to its themes of family loyalty and grief. I'm not the intended audience for this book, and I probably would've quit reading a print copy.

Thank you to Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for access to the audiobook expertly narrated by actor Danny Pino.