My Grown Vanessa

***Trigger Warning: Rape and Sexual Assault***

If you liked My Dark Vanessa, you'll love Grown. (Note: for me, this is a very tough comparison because it's strange to say we "like" books as haunting as these; however, I still think these books are necessary and can help someone come to terms or understand events. These reads are much more haunting than other reads I've posted, so I want to be transparent and say that these books are definitely not for everyone. They are beautifully written, but the themes and plots are dark and most definitely triggering. If you can handle it, these books are well worth the read, but please, please prioritize mental health before diving in to these recommendations.)

Both these books strongly focus on the #metoo movement, as well as empowerment and believing victims. The reason I have recommended them in the order I have is that Grown, since it is a YA novel, isn't explicit in recounting the events. My Dark Vanessa, on the other hand, is very descriptive and could be much more triggering for a reader. If My Dark Vanessa didn't trigger you, then Grown most likely won't, but again, please focus on your mental health when reading these.

Grown also has a mystery/murder plot element, whereas My Dark Vanessa toggles between the past and present. My Dark Vanessa truly shows the effects these events can have when in adulthood. Both characters are rather isolated with very protective parents. Both are loosely inspired by true events that years ago, we saw nonstop in the news.

The main characters are also roughly the same age, Vanessa is 15 and Enchanted is 17. That is about the only thing the two have in common, though. Enchanted (Grown) is focusing on creating a music career. Her story is one of many women who have "made it big." Vanessa (My Dark Vanessa) is at a boarding school. Her story is one that has been silenced or less noticed because it's not "famous." I think knowing this can also help with knowing whether these books are for you.

Honestly, the only way I can describe these books is haunting and well-written. They were fascinating stories. Grown had me sitting on the edge of my seat because it did still contain a mystery. My Dark Vanessa had me cringing and sick to my stomach, but still entranced in the life of Vanessa. I wanted to see her character succeed and heal. I couldn't forget her, which I think was very well done.