Book Review: ‘Vicious’ by V E Schwab

Ahh, how do you begin with a book like 'Vicious' by V E Schwab. I can take a diplomatic standpoint and say that I can see why many people have enjoyed it. It's definitely memorable.

But for me, 'Vicious' was all shock and no awe. This is my first time reading a Schwab book; I know, I'm late to the party. But I've never felt particularly drawn to any of her releases. It's only with the publication of 'Gallant' that I've had my attention drawn.

So when we picked 'Vicious' for season 3 of The Dark Academicals (our podcast! You can find out more by clicking here) I was very intrigued and game to give it a go.

The short review: not for me.

The longer review: the dog gets offed two times too many.

Which sums up my feelings about the execution of this book entirely. A lot of the violent action is unnecessary. It doesn't add to the plot or to any character arcs. It feels like it's for shock value only and I'm too old for that to work a number on me now. And as a horror fan, that's saying a lot. But animal death always makes me uncomfortable.

The characters don't help. If there's a character I can get behind then there is a lot I can forgive. But the structure of 'Vicious' makes it very difficult to spend enough time with a character to grow attached.

For a long time I struggled to differentiate between the two main lads, and that's a problem experienced by both me and Sophie. Interesting because I read the physical book and she the audiobook.

Sometimes you have to accept defeat, and some disappointment. That can be the risk you run as a reader.

‘Vicous’ had a lot of potential, but for me it didn’t follow through with it.

Written by Sarah