I have highlighted the hell out of this book, it was so powerful. I laughed and cried, and was sick to my stomach the whole time at the part where she said “why do any girls have to be bad apples? Why do girls have to be apples at all?” Because I remember that exact metaphor her mom had said prior, it points out the subtle parts of our society that allows this to happen. It was incredibly well done.

"I just really need it to be a love story...because if it isn't a love story then what is it?" Loved this book, but holy crap....it. is. disturbing!!!! I kept thinking gross gross gross through the whole thing, but the execution was perfect! 5 stars!!!! Love this review Merphy. You nailed everything I loved about this book,

I really went into reading this book with the expectation that it would be an "abuse story" in the sense of what the teacher does to the girl, only to find that it wasn't like that at all - everything that happens between them seems to be "consensual" superficially speaking. He does not "force" her to have sex with him; he does not strong-arm her into it by abusing his superior position as a teacher (i.e. by threatening to give her bad grades if she does not comply). But beneath the surface, it is even WORSE than an abuse story of this kind could ever be. The story is not about "what he does to her" but about what he makes her do to herself - how he subtly assigns the responsilbility about what is happening entirely to her - when really he, as an adult, ought to have acted responsibly and been the one that said NO. He tells her that if she ever breathes a word about what he did, she would destroy his life (which is what abusers in real life often also say), instead of taking responsibility for his crime(s). (There is a reason that statutory rape (of minors) is classified as rape no matter how "consensual" it may seem to be in the mintor involved.) And he twists her mind to lie in situations where she clearly, deep down inside herself, feels uncomfortable about lying. It is quite clear that the protagonist in this book feels "strong" for believing that "it all happened with her consent", when really she would be much better off by owning up to the fact that she really WAS a victim.

When she said "You know how sometimes there’s a book that’s yours?” I feel it's mine. It belongs to me.

Man.... Just finished this book... Such a powerful read. I think you hit it when you mentioned the balance that this author has. I also appreciated how neither Vanessa or the teacher fall into the stereotypical predator/victim relationship. Vanessa truely believes she's in love with him and the teacher is sneaky in how he makes it seem like Vanessa wanted it while subtly manipulating her. This book is bold! I'm still in shock that this is the author's first book too.

The book sounds like it would bring out my old wounds knowing something like that happened to me. So, I'm on the fence about reading it.

I'm 25% of the way through this book, and late to the party. As someone who has been through these types of situations, and has had experiences like this, I will say this book is more real than I expected it to be. I feel the distance in the writing to Vanessa, but knowing what it's like to be there pushed me so much closer to her and really pushed forward the feelings and thoughts that aren't spelt out in the book. There have been a few scenes that were too much for me because they so closely resembled what I had been through and really shoved me back into those memories. This book is really hard to get through. And is super triggering. I wanted to thank you though for telling your audience that this book is hard. The subject matter should have tipped me off, I get that, but I was truly not expecting something as real as what I got. And it's absolutely terrifying to read

I'm always very hesitant about these kind of books because I find that it is hard for manipulation to be written believable, but I might just check this one out

I work at a library and I'm going to recommend this book for our catalog when it comes out. I am interested in reading it, but I think many of our patrons will be interested as well. Thanks Merphy for your spoiler free review!

This book sounds like an episode of SVU. I am definitely intrigued.

When you do your second read through, consider listening to the audiobook! The narrator is Spot.On. and there is a fantastic 30 ish minute interview/ chat with the author at the end. Wow, this book was transfixing and so tough and so well written!

I think that one dislike is the teacher ...

I love books that tackle important topics that spread awareness. It’s a good step back to see the reality of situations like these. That’s the kind of messages I’m hoping to convey in my books. I’m currently starting with suicides, and would love to make a book for different mental disorders.

This book is one of my most anticipated books of the year. Thank you for the review.

This is probably one of my most anticipated releases of the year. Thank you for this review!

Sounds so interesting and powerful. I am definitely going to check it out.

I have seen this around and I'm so glad go hear a good spoiler free discussion on this. I'm so interested in the premise, and while it sounds hard it also sounds so eye opening. I need this! ❤❤❤

This is not the typical genre I love reading, but after hearing you talk about it and the review I really think I want to pick it up!

I just recently started reading this book so I’m a bit late, but I think the worst part about this book for me (and by worst I mean what made me the most uncomfortable) is that I too would’ve fallen for Jacob Strane, 15 year old me would’ve fell hard and it’s been hard to confront that. It’s been hard to come to terms with that and I think that’s why this book is so good and a must read

That's such a lovely thumbnail image, i hope you have a wonderful day merphy, thank you for the wholesome videos!

I won an arc from goodreads but I've been nervous to read it. I'm so glad you liked it, this was good motivation for me to actually review it 🙈📚

Hello Merphy ! I really can’t wait to read that one and I’m waiting impatiently for an opportunity to buy it. I know you prefer reading to watching movies haha, but Una is a really interesting one with the same theme as My Dark Vanessa, and it is really well made. The excecution seems a bit different but there is also a then and now. I wish you a good day ! 😄

I'm dying to get my hands on My Dark Vanessa! I know I'm gonna cry though 😢

This book was outstanding and very emotional.

Just pre-ordered this book and am so excited! This review definitely was the tipping point to where I actually ordered it so thank you, it was very well done!!

An elucidating review as always! I was REALLY excited for this book before your review and now I am feverish for it omg. I want to read it even more after your minor criticism about the stagnant period because that is a plus for me. is it weird that i enjoy that 'stagnant' period in the book where not much is 'happening'? It is as if the story is on "simmer".

I'm so excited to read this! It sounds like something I would love

Thank you for recommendation ❤️ I've needed this book in my life.

You continue to inspire me Merphy, thank you! I am about to film my first ever review for booktube and I am watching some of your reviews to help me get some ideas. You are so clear, thoughtful, respectful and erudite, which this book seems to deserve! Thank you again.

I want to write a book exactly like this because when I was a teenager, i used to heavily dream and desire the idea of dating and secrets. From yknow, H20 with the mermaids, or a secret super hero, right up to dating my teacher or therapist. Ew now, but dreamy when I was younger.

This is EXACTLY the kind of video I needed! I've been considering reading this book but I'm a bit worried as this subject is...well, sensitive and I don't want to read it if it was going to traumatize me. I feel like if there's a lot of introspective instances of the character stewing in the unhealthy circumstances, I might just not be able to get through the book.

An amazing book. I was lucky enough to read it early and was deeply impacted by it. Its gunna be huge in 2020.

Just finished this. I'm very glad I read it. Merphy, are you still planning on doing that spoiler review? I'd love to hear your in-depth thoughts :)

This book came up in my recommended after I saw you mention it a few times so I gave it a try and was not disappointed. It is one of those that definitely makes you think about it long after you finished. Thanks for the recommendation, I can already see it in my top books of this year.

Thanks for the review. I'm currently reading it and I can't wait to finish it.

This review! 😳 The emotion expressed from your review captivated me! Chills! The hairs stood on the back of my neck! Now I cannot wait to read this!

Thank you for the review - I will have to think about this one - it sounds intriguing but I usually avoid books about abuse and sex

Great review! I'm eagerly awaiting it because for some reason I'm absolute trash for teacher/student relationship books. I don't know why I just find them intriguing and complicated.

Good morning, Merphy! Loved this early "peek" at My Dark Vanessa. Sold! I am looking forward to diving in as soon as possible... Good fortune to you! ✨😎✨

Just found your channel while looking for reviews on My Dark Vanessa - you're review is fantastic. I feel the exact same way about this book. The writing was phenomenal, the story brutal and I just need time to process what I just read really!! New subscriber, hope to keep in touch x

sounds super intriguing, I'm considering the pre-order now!

I just heard about this book today, Sep. 5th, 2023, and this person said it was terrible, but I like this subject matter. I've read Anne Rice's novel, "Exit to Eden", and most of the Sleeping Beauty series, and I also liked "Fifty Shades of Gray". I've only read the first book, but seen all the movies, so I felt pretty sure I would like this one too, so I came to KZfaq to find reviews, and this lady gave such an excellent, glowing review, that was as detailed as possible, without giving away too much. This was a really, really great video! I'm so glad I found it, and I will most definitely be ordering this book!

This was such a tough read. I have two daughters and this is horrifying. I think it does a really good job explaining that these girls aren't to blame. We shouldn't be angry with them. They don't see it how we as adults see it. They can be treated "nice" by their abusers to the point where they trust them and don't think it's wrong. This book will stay with me for a long time.

I am very excited to read this. I have already preordered it through amazon! I feel like this book definitely relates to what is happening in the world today. I can't wait to read it and I will definitely be doing a book review on it on my page. Loved hearing what you had to say about it. I love books that have an emotional impact on someones life and I can tell that "My Dark Vanessa" touched you and had an impact on you. Can't wait to read it!

Reading this book next.. I am worried but if I did a little life then I m sure I can do this one

This is one of the best books I have ever read❤️

when a woman chooses victimhood, she is therefore freed from personal responsibility, which then compels others to take care of her, which is why once a woman chooses victimhood, she will continue to choose it again and again. this line had me shook

I think I'm going to get my book club to read this when it comes out. Sounds like the type of topics we would like to discuss.

I'm very intrigued by this book now!

My favorite book of the year so far. Powerful. Important.

I love that cover!

I'm definitely will be reading this book thanks for the heads up on how brutal this book will get

Great review. I had a lot of the same feelings about the book!

I love this book so much. I would love to see an in depth review

I am definitely gonna check it out 😊

I just found your channel and i LOVE it! thank you for doing this! Probably watched 40+´videos the last 2 days! Have you red Black magician triology by Trudy Canavan?

Havent read it yet but it remind me a true story happened in France in late 60's. There is a book < Mourir d'aimer > Pierre Duchesne. And also a movie. Charles Aznavour made a song about it

I am only 70 pages in, but it is powerful already. It's definitely not for everyone, because of the subject matter, but it's quite a story.

I’m a 54 year old man and I would recommend this book to guys of all ages. It is a gripping story and I listened to the unabridged audio book over two days. Don’t treat girls like this guy treated Vanessa. Only date women close to your age.

I'm reading this currently, and man...... I'm STRUGGLING!

I am in chapter 9 and it is so hard to get through not even because it's disturbing but because it makes you so uncomfortable. I just know it most likely won't end the way I wish to.

I gotta get my hands on this book

I dont usually read stuff like this.. But im interested 😁

I completely agree. This book was a very difficult read. This was a very polarizing book that was written beautifully.

The book is actually being released in 10 days so if u like me were super angry at having to wait a few months to read this...congrats it'll be out on 23rd january

hopefully it's a better love story than fifty shades and twilight XD

Thank you so much for the review! I hoping to read it as soon as it comes out. Do you prefer this book or Goodbye Perfect?

Downloaded today, not sure when my mood will be right for it it sounds good but heavy....

Thank you for the review, going to hunt this one down and put it on my TBR.

I am reading this book right now. It's going to take me a while because of the fact that I have a similar story to the one that is told in the book. Reading it is kinda too close to home for me for quick reading

Please do a #2 review with spoilers!

One of the best books I've ever read. It hurt me so badly. It meant so much.

Can't believe I'm three hours late ... I'm disappointed in myself. Also, it sounds great! I'm thinking about buying it ASAP.

I’m reading it right now and it’s a tough go.

I'm looking to expand my reading. The only books that I can normally make it all the way through are warefaircentric, nonfiction history books or the occasional grimdark fantasy book. Is this an okay book for someone like me, looking to expand their horizons and read new perspectives?

I am very intrigued. I have not read much Into this type of book but I think I want to. I am curious though, you said it is detailed and raw. Are there scenes of sex/rape? Is it done in a way where the reader feels a part of it or only that the reader understands the impact? I do not like sex in books it often turns me off from the whole book/series. I feel that it makes it less than more. That said with this kind of story I would understand some stuff needs to be said.

If you like romantic books i have to say read this one : pdfbooks.online/products/winters-end

Omgg it making more eager

I just got this from the library... On chapter 7 ...ooo heavy. So far... it's uncomfortable

I remember when internet people were praising A little life by Yanagihara. I gave in and read it. It was utter and complete crap. A hunch tells me this book is also some kind of praised "crap"

Do you have any thoughts on the recent article in the dailymail of author Wendy Ortiz saying this book plagarised her memoir Excavation? I haven't read this but read the summary and did read excavation. I would say inspired by is fair. The ethics of this seem a little murky.

Any good books to read after reading this one? This book was so good- I’m kind of bummed I read it so fast

Intrigued might pick it up

There is no link for preorder in the description box.

I'm really interested in reading this, but I'm wondering how explicit it is. I don't want to read long explicit sex scenes and I was wondering if My Dark Vanessa has those

I don’t know if anyone else has mentioned this but this has a very familiar feel to Excavation by Wendy Ortiz. MDV was one of my most anticipated releases for the year, but unsure now.

Is it possible to read this without the sexy times? I am interested but I really don't think I can get through the sex......

I just started this book yesterday, and am already closing in on page eighty, because it's so good. I've already recommended it to some people. Here's a test question to see if you'll like it: Did you like the movie "Eyes Wide Shut"? If not, then you won't like this book. I loved that movie, and I love this book. Neither of them is sick, deranged, mentally ill... Those are words people use to make themselves feel better about their lack of understanding. It's basically a romance book, just not societies' understanding of what romance is.

I am halfway through the book and I am hooked. It is that good. But I am unable to point my fingers at "who is to blame?"

i wouldn’t change a single line in this entire book. its both beautiful and heartbreakingly ugly. there are many refrences to different poems and books. the obvious connection, of course, being lolita, which is mentioned frequently. It’s one thing to know vaguely what sort of book lolita is when vanessas teacher gives her a copy and it becomes her favorite novel, another to be familiar enough with that work to see how disturbing but disturbingly fitting that is for vanessa’s experience. but, that said, the ties are explained well enough on page that it really isn’t necessary to read lolita for the sake of this novel, and it’s not a book to go into any more lightly than my dark vanessa. i think something was missing when it came to depth (and the characters could have been better fleshed out). part of me dismissed it after i thought that its all from vanessas perspective and vanessa is stagnated, stuck in a time before she could grow and see the world with more depth. vanessa finding the medical record of stranes vasectomy legit took me out of the book. it very much confused me and i think it should have either been taken out of the book all together or lots more fleshing out. i also wish there was a more satisfying ending where vanessa or taylor got justice against strane. however with saying that, stranes death and the fact that there was no justice semmed to mirror reality for lots of victims.

This book, except the ages, is a copy of Excavation: A memoir from a Mexican American author, Wendy Ortiz. In fact the author of My Dark Vanessa wrote to Ms. Ortiz to ket her know she read her book in 2015, and it 'inspired her' yes, to copy her book, all of it... Read Excavation: A memoir, it's raw, is the original story and the written style is richer a d deeper.

📝

I really wish you had mentioned that it's an "ADULT" book before I went to read it. This book hit me too hard, I couldn't finish it

Ok I need some "good" books to read. Scifi like Old Man's War, fantasy like LOTRs/Willow, history please

Ok, who here can retrieve the play title where the significantly older man dates an adolescent. Cannot remember this play for the life of me.

you are very beautiful

Third

Why are you always on the floor?

Eh... skip.

This book was very very very hard to read. You are reading about rape A LOT. It was very well written but i just would not recommend it to anyone :(