Britton answers “Did Strane really love Vanessa at any...”

Amanda asked this question about My Dark Vanessa:

Did Strane really love Vanessa at any point throughout this?

Britton I just finished this book today. My kneejerk reaction? No, not in a healthy way for that matter. I doubt that one would put someone they say to love i…moreI just finished this book today. My kneejerk reaction? No, not in a healthy way for that matter. I doubt that one would put someone they say to love into the emotional turmoil she goes through without remorse. But at the same time, I wonder why he kept crawling back to her. Surely it couldn't have been all a manipulation? Though I won't deny that much of it was.

I respect that Russell decided to trust the audience's intelligence on this issue and let us come to our own conclusions about the matter. I understand that it's clear that this 'relationship' is predatory and abusive by any stretch, but Russell doesn't stoop to make Strane this complete monster. I think it would have been trivial and insulting to the readers.

Fantastic, harrowing book. (less)

flag

About Goodreads Q&A

Ask and answer questions about books!

You can pose questions to the Goodreads community with Reader Q&A, or ask your favorite author a question with Ask the Author.

See Featured Authors Answering Questions

Learn more