A review by goodnewsblues
The Devil in Silver by Victor LaValle

dark emotional funny mysterious sad slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

I think the synopsis really hurt the expectations vs. reality aspect of this book. The devil-monster, instead of roaming the hallways and being a menacing figure, really takes a backseat to interpersonal relations and allegory. This book has horror scenes, but I don’t think I would overall consider it to be horror. What it actually is is a One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest-style social commentary on the mental health facilities in the US, and a look at how we treat the people inside that system. 

I did like this book, I just went into it expecting a very different plot. I would have probably enjoyed this more if I had more realistic idea of what it was going to be. Instead of a tense and creepy monster-stalking-the-dark-hallways kind of book, it’s got interesting characters, a lot of heart and emotion, and the plot kind of takes a backseat to that.