Vicious – Ambition and Obsession

There’s a certain draw to a narrative that features the villain as the protagonist. When this perspective is done well, it really shines, and V.E. Schwab doesn’t miss with this one. At it’s core, Vicious is a story about the razor-thin line between ambition and obsession. About pursuing brilliance even when it comes at a monstrous price. 

I immediately was onboard for the premise. A couple college students stumble on the discovery that near-death experiences can unlock powerful abilities. Rather than rising to heroics, we see them both descend into darkness as one pursues righteousness and the other revenge. Schwab’s writing is pointedly sharp as the narrative leaves you unsure of if you can even root for anyone. 

The structure worked so well. Nonlinear storytelling can often leave a reader confused, but the story is weaved so well here that you begin to slowly move puzzle-pieces into place as everything is discovered. 

Vicious is exactly the type of story I enjoy most. The type that makes me refuse to stop. It’s ruthless, bloody, and morally gray. If you like stories where power corrupts in spectacular fashion, this one’s for you.