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insouciantmediator 's review for:
The Merciless
by Danielle Vega
challenging
sad
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
This work includes discussions of sensitive subjects such as bullying, homelessness, racism, religious persecution, slut-shaming, cheating, alcoholism, dementia, depression, self-harm, suicidal ideation and attempts, substance use, drugging, poisoning, mutilation, injuries, scars, death of a child, suffocation, violence against minorities, fire and arson, physical assault, murder, attempted murder, and torture, including implied violence such as violence in school settings.
The initial observation I had upon reading this book pertains to its writing style, which occasionally resembles that of poorly received fanfiction. Several sections, including the opening sentence, struck me as lacking polish and clarity. For example, the opening line: "I snag my thumb on the lunch tray’s metal edge, and a crescent of blood appears beneath my cuticle. It oozes into the cracks surrounding my nail, then spills over to one side, forming a perfect red droplet, almost like a tear," initially made me consider discontinuing the book.
However, I appreciate that the author, Vaga, demonstrates a strong ability to build suspense, particularly in the more intense scenes. The novel introduces elements of the paranormal, albeit briefly. The development of the relationship between the protagonist and Charlie felt somewhat unrealistic until their first kiss. I also found certain themes and portrayals in the narrative to be problematic. Specifically, I was uncomfortable with the religious undertones and their impact on the depiction of marginalized characters.
The plot suggests there will be a turning point mid-story, where it is revealed that our marginalized protagonist is not the villain and has done nothing wrong. Despite this, the narrative tends to emphasize themes of fitting in and conversion, which I found concerning. Overall, I believe the book offers a perspective on teenage experiences, but its portrayal of these issues may not align with a more accurate or sensitive understanding of adolescent realities.
The initial observation I had upon reading this book pertains to its writing style, which occasionally resembles that of poorly received fanfiction. Several sections, including the opening sentence, struck me as lacking polish and clarity. For example, the opening line: "I snag my thumb on the lunch tray’s metal edge, and a crescent of blood appears beneath my cuticle. It oozes into the cracks surrounding my nail, then spills over to one side, forming a perfect red droplet, almost like a tear," initially made me consider discontinuing the book.
However, I appreciate that the author, Vaga, demonstrates a strong ability to build suspense, particularly in the more intense scenes. The novel introduces elements of the paranormal, albeit briefly. The development of the relationship between the protagonist and Charlie felt somewhat unrealistic until their first kiss. I also found certain themes and portrayals in the narrative to be problematic. Specifically, I was uncomfortable with the religious undertones and their impact on the depiction of marginalized characters.
The plot suggests there will be a turning point mid-story, where it is revealed that our marginalized protagonist is not the villain and has done nothing wrong. Despite this, the narrative tends to emphasize themes of fitting in and conversion, which I found concerning. Overall, I believe the book offers a perspective on teenage experiences, but its portrayal of these issues may not align with a more accurate or sensitive understanding of adolescent realities.