54 pages • 1 hour read
My Dark Vanessa
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Book Brief
369
Novel • Fiction
New England • 2000s
2020
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In Kate Elizabeth Russell's debut novel My Dark Vanessa, Vanessa Wye, now 30, revisits her past and her relationship with her 42-year-old English teacher, Jacob Strane, during her time at Browick, a boarding school in Maine. Strane uses literature to manipulate the 15-year-old Vanessa, making her believe their abusive relationship is a romantic affair, which she grapples with into adulthood as she uncovers its true nature. The novel includes depictions of sexual abuse and assault.
Dark
Unnerving
Melancholic
Contemplative
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
393,391 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
My Dark Vanessa by Kate Elizabeth Russell is a hauntingly powerful exploration of an abusive relationship between a teenage girl and her teacher. Reviewers praise its unflinching portrayal of trauma and manipulation. However, some critics find its graphic content difficult to read and express concerns over potential triggering material. Overall, it prompts deep reflection on consent and agency.
Who Should Read My Dark Vanessa?
Readers who enjoyed Lolita by Vladimir Nabokov or The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold will likely be drawn to My Dark Vanessa. This novel captures the complex dynamics of a student-teacher relationship, making it compelling for those interested in psychological depth and controversial themes in fiction.
393,391 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Jacob Strane
Jacob Strane
Vanessa's English teacher whose charismatic presence and shared literary interests initially draw Vanessa to him, setting the stage for their complicated and controversial relationship.
Jenny Murphy
Jenny Murphy
Vanessa's former roommate and best friend from ninth grade, who serves as a contrast to Vanessa, thanks to her secure family background and age-appropriate relationship with her boyfriend.
Taylor Birch
Taylor Birch
A younger former student of Strane's who comes forward to accuse him of sexual misconduct, representing the courage and resilience of abuse survivors.
Mrs. Wye
Mrs. Wye
Vanessa’s mother, who struggles to communicate her love effectively, contributing to Vanessa’s feelings of emotional isolation.
369
Novel • Fiction
New England • 2000s
2020
Adult
18+ years
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