josiie 's review for:

My Dark Vanessa by Kate Elizabeth Russell

5.0

challenging dark emotional reflective sad tense slow-paced

Plot or Character Driven: Character

Strong character development: Yes

Loveable characters: Complicated

Diverse cast of characters: No

Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

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This book was the most eye opening thing I’ve ever read. It was shocking how relatable Vanessa’s character was, underneath all of the trauma she experienced. I, too, attend a challenging high school and am messy and impressionable. It was eye opening to see how i could’ve been her if I was approached by the same man. 

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Content Warnings

Graphic: Adult/minor relationship, Child abuse, Emotional abuse, Mental illness, Pedophilia, Physical abuse, Rape, Sexual assault, Sexual content, Sexual violence, Toxic relationship, Grief, Stalking, Gaslighting, Alcohol, Sexual harassment

Moderate: Death, Panic attacks/disorders, Self harm, Suicidal thoughts, Suicide, Grief, Injury/Injury detail

Minor: Alcoholism, Animal death, Death, Drug use, Death of parent