My Dark Vanessa - Opinion and Review

I was in Chicago two weeks ago and was taken by my friend to an independent bookstore. While there, I picked out two books. Let me be completely honest...I had one book in my hand and said to my friend "THIS IS THE ONLY BOOK I'M ALLOWED TO BUY" but then...I walked past My Dark Vanessa by Kate Elizabeth Russell and immediately and swiftly picked it up and took it up to the counter to purchase. Nothing was going to stop me.

Vanessa Wye was a high school student, completely infatuated by one of her teachers. In turn, her teacher, Jacob Strane, was just as infatuated by her. TRIGGER WARNING, this book was a dark tale of their torrid relationship, and how it followed both of them years after their time as teacher/student. Taking place both in 2000, when we follow their new-found infatuation and sexual relationship, and in 2017, at the cusp of the ME TOO movement, and women finally standing up against sexual assault. Vanessa struggles with her feelings, trying to determine if she really was taken advantage of or if she had been in love. You guys know me...I don't give spoilers, but I will say that this story if disturbing and empowering all at the same time.

I gave My Dark Vanessa 5 out of 5 stars.

Dates read: July 1, 2021 - July 2, 2021