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Hey everyone! Haley here, and I have found myself reading from an interesting subgenre lately so I decided to turn it into a blog post (because that’s how most blog posts come about right?!?!) I realized after the third or fourth book that I had been reading a lot of novels that featured sexual assault as their main theme. It started to depress me so I’ve moved away from them in the last few weeks.
Anyway, some of these books are recent releases and others were simply new to me. As always, let me know what you think in the comments and if I missed your favorite book on the subject.
My Dark Vanessa by Kate Elizabeth Rusell
This one is first on my list because I cannot stop thinking about it! It tells the story of Vanessa who, at the age of 15, was groomed by her English teacher into what she perceived as a romantic relationship. Years later, when other victims come forward, Vanessa must comes to terms with the reality of a relationship that she thought was consensual. It’s dark and disturbing but extremely important and, unfortunately, all too relevant.
Sparrow by Marry Cecilia Jackson
We participated in a blog tour for this book but what Jackson does so we’ll is showing how domestic violence harms not only those directly effected but loved ones several degrees removed. Savannah Rose or “Sparrow” struggles with finding her voice when she is brutally assaulted at the hands of her seemingly perfect boyfriend Tristen. This book is brutal but moving and Jackson does an amazing job of showing how complicated such relationships can be.
Red Hood by Elana K. Arnold
This one is controversial because it speaks to a female experience that frequently is ignored in novels: namely menstration. In this contemporary world where boys become wolves and girls must take matters into their own hands. While profoundly controversial this story is an idea to the feminine and female empowerment.
Girl Made of Stars by Ashley Herring Blake
This is a unique take on a sexual assault story because it tells the story of Mara, whose twin brother Owen is accused of sexual assault by one of Mara’s closes friend. It is a thought provoking story about the importance of believing victims and speaking one’s truth. It’s a quick read and heart wrenching as Mara comes to terms with not only what her brother did but her own secrets that have haunted her for far too long.
The Exact Opposite of Okay by Laura Steven
This is a unique book on this list because it tells the story of sex positive, aspiring comedian Izzy who suddenly becomes the center of a tension when some pictures of her having sex with a politician’s son go viral around the school. What follows is a difficult look at the assumptions and stigmas which exist around sex. Izzy as a narrator is witty and hilarious and makes reading about a hard, bleak topic, easier.
What About You?
What are some of your favorite books treating topic related to sexual assault? Have you read any of my picks? Let me know in the comments!
These are some great ones! Added to my TBR! Recently, I really loved “These Violent Delights” by Victoria Namkung.
Oh I’ll have to check that one out!
Such an important topic to write about so survivors don’t feel alone. Thank you for the post and recommendations.