My Dark Vanessa - Book Review
"My Dark Vanessa" is a gripping and emotionally charged debut novel that delves into the complexities of power, manipulation, and the long-lasting effects of abuse. The story follows Vanessa Wye, a 32-year-old woman forced to confront her past when allegations of sexual abuse against her former English teacher, Jacob Strane, resurface.
The novel alternates between two timelines(my favourite): the present day, where Vanessa struggles to come to terms with her past and her role in it; and the past, where we witness her questionable relationship with Strane during her years at a prestigious boarding school.
The novel navigates the fine line between victimhood and complicity. It questions agency, consent, and the blurred boundaries that can exist in relationships. And it does this without blaming Vanessa, which you often get in these kinds of narratives.
(Lolita, I see you, and NO I will not be hearing anyone out.
Like, yes I GET that he's supposed to be an "unreliable narrator" and that the way he's viewing Lola is not at all how she actually is.
BUT!!!! By describing Lola's actions/behaviour in a sexual light, doesn't that invite the reader to question Lola's role in their relationship?
Yes, I know that's the point but isn't it weird? We never read from Lola's perspective so all of these complicated feelings don't come from Lola, but rather the weirdo pedo trying to justify his actions. Rather than getting Lola's views on their relationship, it's just Humbert trying to act like he knows exactly what she's thinking. Weirdo pedo.)
The novel's use of perspective allows the reader to step into the shoes of this relationship and sympathise with Vanessa.
Is she a victim? Yes.
But the novel raises the idea that despite being the victim, she is still allowed to romanticise her past. In the same way that trauma survivors can sometimes create kinks/coping mechanisms out of their traumas as a form of healing (CNC, Agere, etc.).
Does it make sense to your average citizen? Maybe not...
I think overall the message of "It can feel good and still be abuse." is really good and well-written.
But what I personally didn't like were that the scenes involving Vanessa and Strane were a bit too graphic. Eh, personal preference?