A review by ceco_
Paradais by Fernanda Melchor

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

4.0

Fernanda Melchor's best on display. Her stream of consciousness writing style propels you though the narrative at a dizzying, breakneck pace only to come out the other side surprised at how much character work, themes and perspectives you've absorbed along the way. 

Paradais holds up a mirror to the class divide, misogyny and gang violence playing out in Mexico. It's unflinching in the cruelty it portrays, yet honest. Because as twisted as these characters are, as foul and sickening their actions, there's no doubt in your mind that they do exist somewhere out there, maybe not in this exact configuration, not in this exact crime, but an echo all the same. 

I don't recommend this book if you have a weak stomach. Melchor pulls no punches in the way these characters interact with each other and the world. I'm talking fatphobic, homophic and misogynistic slurs + tropes littering almost every page. Read with caution. It will disgust you. 
Expand filter menu Content Warnings