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A review by lgemery
The Sinner by Shantel Tessier
dark
emotional
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
I would almost feel ashamed about how much I liked this book, had a large theme not been about accepting yourself and your desires, especially regarding trauma responses. Rarely do books really delve into the psychology of trauma survivors in this way, and even more rarely do they discuss how sexual trauma impacts one's sexual preferences.
People are often hesitant to discuss the sort of taboo kinks that this book features heavily, particularly CNC and intense BDSM. I really appreciated Elli's POV in this, especially the parts where she reflected on her trauma and sexuality. Some parts were definitely difficult emotionally, but her perspective resonated with me in a way little else has.
Regarding the writing style, I found this book easy to read and hard to put down. It wasn't flowery or poetic, and didn't try to be something it wasn't. The simplicity of the writing suited the novel, and I feel that much else would have felt incongruous or out of place.
If you are a survivor of sexual assault (especially CSA) or domestic violence, proceed with caution. It's practically impossible to skip or gloss over the violent/sexual scenes without missing major plot points and important context.
People are often hesitant to discuss the sort of taboo kinks that this book features heavily, particularly CNC and intense BDSM. I really appreciated Elli's POV in this, especially the parts where she reflected on her trauma and sexuality. Some parts were definitely difficult emotionally, but her perspective resonated with me in a way little else has.
Regarding the writing style, I found this book easy to read and hard to put down. It wasn't flowery or poetic, and didn't try to be something it wasn't. The simplicity of the writing suited the novel, and I feel that much else would have felt incongruous or out of place.
If you are a survivor of sexual assault (especially CSA) or domestic violence, proceed with caution. It's practically impossible to skip or gloss over the violent/sexual scenes without missing major plot points and important context.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Child abuse, Domestic abuse, Incest, Pedophilia, Sexual assault, Sexual violence, Violence, Murder
Moderate: Drug abuse, Suicidal thoughts, Suicide attempt