In their new horror novel The Handyman Method, authors Nick Cutter (The Troop) and Andrew F. Sullivan (The Marigold) take a satirical look at the notion that traditional masculinity is declining. In an exclusive interview with Horror Geek Life, Cutter explained, “Men are having a more difficult time dealing with their place within the family because it’s changing.” Despite the fact that this has been a cultural concern for decades, it appears to be more relevant than ever.
Trent and Rita Saban and their young son Milo move into a new house in an unfinished development. Because it is the first in the community, it lacks some of the usual things, such as a lawn and neighbors. However, it appears ideal for the family as they adjust to having a single income, with Rita as the breadwinner. When unexplained cracks and other issues begin to appear, Trent throws himself into the projects.
As a former white-collar worker without home maintenance experience, he stumbles upon The Handyman Method, a YouTube channel hosted by the charismatic Hank. Every issue Trent faces, from mending a wall to reclaiming his masculinity from his wife, ol’ Hank has a solution. But there is something far more sinister at play as Trent’s toxic thoughts, obsession, and rage bubble to the surface.
RELATED: Exclusive: Nick Cutter and Andrew F. Sullivan Talk ‘The Handyman Method’
While there are some hard-to-read sections of the book (trigger warning: animal death and child abuse), it is all grounded within the story and never feels gratuitous. The mean-spirited entity that takes hold of Trent attaches itself to that relatable worry of becoming unimportant. At times, the true horror isn’t always from the thing that lurks beneath but rather from ordinary human nature. Cutter and Sullivan explore the violence and rage that result from toxic masculinity and an ever-changing society.
But for readers simply looking for a hard-to-put-down supernatural horror novel, The Handyman Method is an excellent pick. It is an unconventional haunted house story combining a few subgenre cliches with visceral imagery. I’ll admit that I took a few breaks from reading to scan my room in paranoia. That is one of the highest compliments I can give as a horror fan who enjoys being scared.
This is Cutter’s first novel collaboration; those who have read Sullivan’s work will appreciate the partnership. Although the authors have unique voices, they both succeed at driving their distinctive styles of eco-terror, body horror, and madness. The Handyman Method is a must-read if you enjoy the authors or the subgenres discussed.
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