oday, I'm sharing my thoughts on the book "My Dark Vanessa" by Kate Elizabeth Russell. This book has received a lot of attention since its release, and it's been featured as a Book of the Month pick, won numerous awards, and made its rounds on popular booktok and bookstagram accounts. I gave this book a solid 4 stars, and I want to dive into why I found it so captivating, as well as some of the reasons it didn't quite reach a 5-star rating for me.
"My Dark Vanessa" tells the story of Vanessa Wye, a woman who, at 15 years old, enters into a relationship with her 42-year-old English teacher, Jacob Strane. The book alternates between her teenage years and her present life, where she grapples with the ramifications of their relationship, especially as sexual misconduct allegations surface against Strane.
One of the things I appreciated about this novel was Russell's writing. She has a way of capturing the complexity of emotions and internal struggles that Vanessa experiences throughout the story. One quote that stood out to me is:
"I can’t lose the thing I’ve held onto for so long, you know?” My face twists up from the pain of pushing it out. “I just really need it to be a love story, you know? I really, really need it to be that."
This quote highlights the internal conflict Vanessa feels as she deals with the memories of her past and the reality of her present.
Another aspect of "My Dark Vanessa" that I found compelling was the exploration of the power dynamics and manipulation in the relationship between Vanessa and Strane. The book raises important questions about consent and agency, and while it's not an easy read, it's definitely thought-provoking. As Vanessa says,
"This, I think, is the cost of telling, even in the guise of fiction. Once you do, it’s the only thing about you anyone will ever care about. It defines you whether you want it to or not."
This quote showcases the way Strane uses silence as a means of control and manipulation, further complicating Vanessa's feelings and experiences.
While I appreciated the depth and complexity of the novel, the reason I didn't give it a full 5 stars was that it was, at times, difficult to read due to its heavy subject matter. However, I believe that this is a powerful and important book that many readers can appreciate, despite its challenging content.
Buy now on Amazon: My Dark Vanessa
In conclusion, "My Dark Vanessa" is a haunting and evocative novel that delves into the complexities of power dynamics, manipulation, and the lasting impact of trauma. I highly recommend this book to readers who appreciate thought-provoking and emotionally charged stories. Kate Elizabeth Russell has crafted a powerful debut that will undoubtedly stay with you long after you've finished the last page.
*Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases on affiliate links.
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