A review by astrid421
My Dark Vanessa by Kate Elizabeth Russell

challenging dark emotional reflective sad tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? No
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

Is there a right way to write about pedophilia & the traumatic mark it leaves? If so, My Dark Vanessa did the damn thing. I absolutely despise the romanticization of adult-minor relationships in our culture. Kate Elizabeth Russell did a great job at showing us Vanessa’s perspective both as a minor and adult. 

Also, DEATH TO ALL PREDATORS. 

---

Content Warnings

Graphic: Misogyny, Rape, Sexual content, Sexual harassment, Sexual violence, Stalking, Toxic relationship, Violence, Vomit, Adult/minor relationship, Alcohol, Emotional abuse, Sexual assault, Gaslighting, and Pedophilia