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kaitlynredwing's review against another edition
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
"The stigma around sexual abuse, and child sexuality in general, is pervasive, and survivors often mention not coming forward sooner (or ever) due to deep shame, confusion, and an unyielding fear of not being believed."
This was definitely a hard review for me. I'm choosing to go with 4 stars because of how well the story shows the effects of sexual assault in women of all different ages and how important this topic is. But a part of me really wanted to give this 3 stars because of the writing style and how difficult it was to get through because of it. Regardless, I would very much recommend this book to someone.
These Violent Delights is a story of three women who were all sexually assaulted by the same professor at a private school who is loved dearly by the community. It shows how difficult it is for someone to come forward and out their assaulter and how vigorously the community would attack those who came forward.
This book will make you want to scream out in anger and cry at the same time. The injustice and hardships all women and men who have been sexually assaulted face are real and happen every day. And to anyone. Our three women are all from different social background and races, although they all did go to a private school, this book shed a light on the fact that anyone could be sexually assaulted.
There's not much I can say other than: Read This. The only downfall was the writing style. At times scenes didn't flow together, and the writing style felt more like a report. Though you feel for the characters and the traumatic experience they all went through, you don't know much more about them; I didn't have any emotional connection to them and wasn't invested in them besides wanting justice for them.
So if you're one who doesn't have to like the characters to enjoy a book then you would probably really enjoy this. However, If you're someone like me who needs that, it might be a struggle to get through. Overall, it was still worth it based on the subject content and it will make you much more aware of the struggles victims of sexual assault go through.
"The stigma around sexual abuse, and child sexuality in general, is pervasive, and survivors often mention not coming forward sooner (or ever) due to deep shame, confusion, and an unyielding fear of not being believed."
This was definitely a hard review for me. I'm choosing to go with 4 stars because of how well the story shows the effects of sexual assault in women of all different ages and how important this topic is. But a part of me really wanted to give this 3 stars because of the writing style and how difficult it was to get through because of it. Regardless, I would very much recommend this book to someone.
These Violent Delights is a story of three women who were all sexually assaulted by the same professor at a private school who is loved dearly by the community. It shows how difficult it is for someone to come forward and out their assaulter and how vigorously the community would attack those who came forward.
This book will make you want to scream out in anger and cry at the same time. The injustice and hardships all women and men who have been sexually assaulted face are real and happen every day. And to anyone. Our three women are all from different social background and races, although they all did go to a private school, this book shed a light on the fact that anyone could be sexually assaulted.
There's not much I can say other than: Read This. The only downfall was the writing style. At times scenes didn't flow together, and the writing style felt more like a report. Though you feel for the characters and the traumatic experience they all went through, you don't know much more about them; I didn't have any emotional connection to them and wasn't invested in them besides wanting justice for them.
So if you're one who doesn't have to like the characters to enjoy a book then you would probably really enjoy this. However, If you're someone like me who needs that, it might be a struggle to get through. Overall, it was still worth it based on the subject content and it will make you much more aware of the struggles victims of sexual assault go through.
thegeekybibliophile's review against another edition
4.0
The Windemere School for Girls finds itself at the center of controversy following the publication of an explosive piece accusing a popular teacher, Dr. Gregory Copeland, of inappropriate behavior with a student. The former student, Caryn Rodgers, claims Windemere neglected to take appropriate action, effectively enabling Copeland to abuse other students; something Windemere denies. With the help of reporter Jane March, the investigation into Copeland and the school's actions turns up more accusers, each one determined to have the truth come out, at last, about their former teacher.
We hear stories about such things on the news all the time, but—as Namkung points out in her statement at the end of the book—it's estimated that at least 80% of child sexual abuse cases are never reported to the authorities, and 90% of these crimes are committed by someone the child knows and trusts. That's a horrifying statistic, and These Violent Delights drives home that point in this fictional tale of three former students who were abused by a trusted, respected teacher.
This book isn't always easy to read, and not just because of the focus on what the former students went through. It was almost worse, sometimes, seeing how Jane's male colleagues immediately doubted Caryn's story—'Why did she wait so long to report it?' 'Maybe she's just looking for attention.' 'An accusation like this can ruin someone's life.'—it was infuriating to read. It's exactly the sort of thing that happens to accusers in real life, though, unfortunately.
The ending came with a revelation that left me shocked and more than a little disturbed. I'm still not quite sure how I feel about it, to be honest., but I'm betting it's something I'll never forget.
We hear stories about such things on the news all the time, but—as Namkung points out in her statement at the end of the book—it's estimated that at least 80% of child sexual abuse cases are never reported to the authorities, and 90% of these crimes are committed by someone the child knows and trusts. That's a horrifying statistic, and These Violent Delights drives home that point in this fictional tale of three former students who were abused by a trusted, respected teacher.
This book isn't always easy to read, and not just because of the focus on what the former students went through. It was almost worse, sometimes, seeing how Jane's male colleagues immediately doubted Caryn's story—'Why did she wait so long to report it?' 'Maybe she's just looking for attention.' 'An accusation like this can ruin someone's life.'—it was infuriating to read. It's exactly the sort of thing that happens to accusers in real life, though, unfortunately.
The ending came with a revelation that left me shocked and more than a little disturbed. I'm still not quite sure how I feel about it, to be honest., but I'm betting it's something I'll never forget.
These Violent Delights is a very good book; its subject matter is distressing, but it's meant to be. While this won't be a book everyone feels comfortable reading, I feel it makes an important statement about the very real problem we have of teachers who prey on their students, and the lack of a federal registry listing teachers who have been fired and/or disciplined for sexual misconduct with a student, which I was completely unaware of before reading this book. I don't anyone can read this book without feeling outraged that we, as a nation, haven't taken steps to better protect our children from sexual predators in schools. (Yes, this is a novel, but a great deal of truth is often found in fiction. Such is the case here.)
I definitely recommend this book, and I'll be eagerly waiting for Namkung's next book!
I received an advance review copy of this book courtesy of Griffith Moon via Netgalley.
freesien's review against another edition
4.0
ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley.
This book is a topical read amidst the #MeToo movement. You could feel that Numkang did her research very well, the story felt very realistic. But half of the time the book felt like nonfiction rather than a novel, I couldn't form any overly emotional bondings with the characters.
This book is a topical read amidst the #MeToo movement. You could feel that Numkang did her research very well, the story felt very realistic. But half of the time the book felt like nonfiction rather than a novel, I couldn't form any overly emotional bondings with the characters.
slowreadersclub's review against another edition
3.0
“Don't you find it interesting that these types of crimes against women - whether it's violence, sexual assault, rape - are the only kinds where we force the victim to make a case of their own innocence before even investigating?”
These Violent Delights by Victoria Namkung is a novel about three women who team up with a journalist to seek justice for the inappropriate relationships they were lured into by their high school English teacher when they were just 15 years old.
Namkung has done a great job of respectfully exploring this extremely sensitive topic, not only looking at sexual assault and rape, but also of the blame culture that surrounds these issues. Whilst the subject matter within this book is extremely important, and seems to be very well researched, I found the first two-thirds to be slightly underwhelming. That’s not to say that I didn’t enjoy the novel, because I really did. I just thought that the characters and their relationships could have been explored a bit more in-depth, as at times some of the characters felt somewhat superficial. But what really made this novel enjoyable for me was Sasha’s narrative and her struggle to cope in adult life because of what had happened to her as a child.
Overall, I think that this is such an important novel because of what it explores, and whilst not everything about the writing and character development was to my particular taste, I would definitely recommend it.
[Note - this book deals with difficult topics including rape.]
I was give a free copy by Netgalley for reviewing purposes in exchange for my honest review.
These Violent Delights by Victoria Namkung is a novel about three women who team up with a journalist to seek justice for the inappropriate relationships they were lured into by their high school English teacher when they were just 15 years old.
Namkung has done a great job of respectfully exploring this extremely sensitive topic, not only looking at sexual assault and rape, but also of the blame culture that surrounds these issues. Whilst the subject matter within this book is extremely important, and seems to be very well researched, I found the first two-thirds to be slightly underwhelming. That’s not to say that I didn’t enjoy the novel, because I really did. I just thought that the characters and their relationships could have been explored a bit more in-depth, as at times some of the characters felt somewhat superficial. But what really made this novel enjoyable for me was Sasha’s narrative and her struggle to cope in adult life because of what had happened to her as a child.
Overall, I think that this is such an important novel because of what it explores, and whilst not everything about the writing and character development was to my particular taste, I would definitely recommend it.
[Note - this book deals with difficult topics including rape.]
I was give a free copy by Netgalley for reviewing purposes in exchange for my honest review.
starness's review against another edition
4.0
I found this book incredibly topical with all that’s been going on in the media at the moment. It’s staggering how many women will quietly relate to issues within this book. The prevalence of sexual assault and abuse is sadly all too common so books like these are incredibly important and relevant. I raced through this book, I enjoyed the fact that it was straight to the point, it’s not glossy or full of filler. It did feel less like a novel than an investigative journalistic piece though which did not deter me at all. Although some parts felt slightly rushed and incomplete. Still I was fully invested in this story and the characters. This book shows the lasting effects of abuse how devastating the impact whether the actions are considered big or small, the subtle forms of abuse can be just as damaging and how it can change someone’s life so profoundly, it made me feel intense emotions for all the women in this book. Also showing how the impact is different for every individual and no victim is cut from the same mould as another victim. The banding together and the support of the women towards each other was such a appealing part of why this book worked so well for me.
Thanks to Netgalley and Griffith Moon Publishing for my advance review copy.
Thanks to Netgalley and Griffith Moon Publishing for my advance review copy.
booklvrkat's review against another edition
4.0
This novel by Victoria Namkung reads current. It is not true, but it could be true. It doesn't have a happy ending, per se, but it does give a sense of power. It's heartbreakingly real and if you don't tear up a time or two, I would be surprised. The author shatters the wall of privilege found at private schools and digs deep within 3 wounded souls at the hands of a teacher. Each has a different story, but the same story, each profoundly affected me. Set in backdrop of modern Los Angeles, the private elite girls only high school of Windemere this story is right out of the news. Again, 1 star off for me because it's not a true happy ending imho. *note: I won this copy from the author in a giveaway, I review because I like to.
kristy_k's review against another edition
4.0
"Don't you find it interesting that these types of crimes against women- whether it's violence, sexual assault, rape- are the only kinds we force the victim to make a case about their own innocence before even investigating?"
This short book packs a powerful punch. These Violent Delights focuses on three girls (Caryn, Eva, Sasha) who come forward years later about the inappropriate relationship they had with their English teacher in high school, all in different years. Jane, a reporter who Caryn interns for, champions their case, writing investigative pieces and being there for these women.
All three women came from such different backgrounds and yet their tragic events bonded them. I like that Namkung showed that sexual assault crimes don't only happen to the poor and destitute or those without support; it could happen to anyone you know and by anyone you know.
Copeland, their English teacher, is much beloved by parents, students, and the community. Windemere is an elite private school for girls who seems at times to care more about their image than their girls. When news breaks of these allegations and the evidence supporting them, many are shocked, some unbelieving.
"They want a perfect victim and a perfect perpetrator. Someone who jumps out of the bushes in a park in the middle of the night and drags you to the ground by your hair. They want witnesses and screams and blood. Anything short of that is considered murky or he-said, she-said, even when there's proof."
These Violent Delights takes a hard look at sexual assault culture and victim blaming and there were many times I was infuriating by how these women were being treated and talked about by people they didn't even know.
"These men don't know the first thing about the violent truths of being born female."
I will add a side-note here that this is not a "men are evil" book. On the contrary there are some amazing male side character in this book that show men can be compassionate, understanding, and respectful.
I'll end with a quote from the author's statement which I found apropos: "Abuse is rarely committed in a dark alley by a stranger, and to perpetuate that myth is irresponsible."
This short book packs a powerful punch. These Violent Delights focuses on three girls (Caryn, Eva, Sasha) who come forward years later about the inappropriate relationship they had with their English teacher in high school, all in different years. Jane, a reporter who Caryn interns for, champions their case, writing investigative pieces and being there for these women.
All three women came from such different backgrounds and yet their tragic events bonded them. I like that Namkung showed that sexual assault crimes don't only happen to the poor and destitute or those without support; it could happen to anyone you know and by anyone you know.
Copeland, their English teacher, is much beloved by parents, students, and the community. Windemere is an elite private school for girls who seems at times to care more about their image than their girls. When news breaks of these allegations and the evidence supporting them, many are shocked, some unbelieving.
"They want a perfect victim and a perfect perpetrator. Someone who jumps out of the bushes in a park in the middle of the night and drags you to the ground by your hair. They want witnesses and screams and blood. Anything short of that is considered murky or he-said, she-said, even when there's proof."
These Violent Delights takes a hard look at sexual assault culture and victim blaming and there were many times I was infuriating by how these women were being treated and talked about by people they didn't even know.
"These men don't know the first thing about the violent truths of being born female."
I will add a side-note here that this is not a "men are evil" book. On the contrary there are some amazing male side character in this book that show men can be compassionate, understanding, and respectful.
I'll end with a quote from the author's statement which I found apropos: "Abuse is rarely committed in a dark alley by a stranger, and to perpetuate that myth is irresponsible."
b00knerd's review against another edition
5.0
I received a free copy from NetGalley for my honest review. This was my first experience with NetGalley and I am very pleased.
These Violent Delights by Victoria Namkung hit home for me. Victoria Namkung did a wonderful job on portraying how society acts when dealing with rape or assault. I related to the characters and the frustration and pain they felt.
From the moment I started reading I could not put this book down. As the story went on I just kept getting frustrated with the fact that the school did nothing for these poor girls. Which is another part I can relate to. How women are meant to feel at fault or put all the blame on the girls. I’m so happy that there was justice in the end. Only negative thing I have to say is I wish there was more of an ending, I would love to know what happens further into the future with the characters and know if Mr Copeland ever got that letter or his reaction to the letter.
Overall, this book was a perfect read. I will definitely recommend this book to my friends.
These Violent Delights by Victoria Namkung hit home for me. Victoria Namkung did a wonderful job on portraying how society acts when dealing with rape or assault. I related to the characters and the frustration and pain they felt.
From the moment I started reading I could not put this book down. As the story went on I just kept getting frustrated with the fact that the school did nothing for these poor girls. Which is another part I can relate to. How women are meant to feel at fault or put all the blame on the girls. I’m so happy that there was justice in the end. Only negative thing I have to say is I wish there was more of an ending, I would love to know what happens further into the future with the characters and know if Mr Copeland ever got that letter or his reaction to the letter.
Overall, this book was a perfect read. I will definitely recommend this book to my friends.
writingwwolves's review against another edition
4.0
This was a really difficult read, which is why I think I avoided finishing it whilst I had some family stuff going on; I never normally take so long to finish a book!
These Violent Delights is a great book though (I read 60% in one sitting); it's really honest, sometimes disgustingly so, & it definitely gets an emotional reaction from its reader. TVD is also incredibly relevant right now & I think it's important that so many women pick up this book, so they know that they're not alone & that they're not to blame. Victoria has honestly done an incredible job in putting this novel together & I hope it gets the recognition it deserves.
Extended Review to follow: https://wp.me/p8MbIo-2ja
These Violent Delights is a great book though (I read 60% in one sitting); it's really honest, sometimes disgustingly so, & it definitely gets an emotional reaction from its reader. TVD is also incredibly relevant right now & I think it's important that so many women pick up this book, so they know that they're not alone & that they're not to blame. Victoria has honestly done an incredible job in putting this novel together & I hope it gets the recognition it deserves.
Extended Review to follow: https://wp.me/p8MbIo-2ja
theverbalthing's review against another edition
3.0
I received an ARC of These Violent Delights through NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. Although I wasn't able to read this book before its November 7 release date, I started it three days ago and flew through it.
The story follows three former students of the fictional Windemere School for Girls in Los Angeles, all previous victims of a predatory teacher who's been teaching at the school for nearly two decades. The novel is told largely through the perspective of main character Caryn, whose journalism internship at the Daily Trojan gives her the space and audience to write a personal essay detailing her experiences with this teacher. The publication of the story inspires several other victims to speak out, and the novel follows the investigation (journalistic and legal) and consequential actions of Caryn and the other victims' accounts.
Victoria Namkung weaves a very important narrative in These Violent Delights, one that is peppered with research of real-life statistics and that is especially relevant in today's media climate, when predatory, cis men are finally being held accountable for their abhorrent actions. This novel is uncomfortable to read, but not because it's poorly written - simply because of the sensitive subject matter and triggering content, including sexual abuse of minors, victim blaming, overt descriptions of rape, and suicide of a major character.
I think this book is well worth the read.
The story follows three former students of the fictional Windemere School for Girls in Los Angeles, all previous victims of a predatory teacher who's been teaching at the school for nearly two decades. The novel is told largely through the perspective of main character Caryn, whose journalism internship at the Daily Trojan gives her the space and audience to write a personal essay detailing her experiences with this teacher. The publication of the story inspires several other victims to speak out, and the novel follows the investigation (journalistic and legal) and consequential actions of Caryn and the other victims' accounts.
Victoria Namkung weaves a very important narrative in These Violent Delights, one that is peppered with research of real-life statistics and that is especially relevant in today's media climate, when predatory, cis men are finally being held accountable for their abhorrent actions. This novel is uncomfortable to read, but not because it's poorly written - simply because of the sensitive subject matter and triggering content, including sexual abuse of minors, victim blaming, overt descriptions of rape, and suicide of a major character.
I think this book is well worth the read.