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Violet Grenade
Her name is Domino Ray.
But the voice inside her head has a different name.
When the mysterious Ms. Karina finds Domino in an alleyway, she offers her a position at her girls’ home in secluded West Texas. With no alternatives and an agenda of her own, Domino accepts. It isn’t long before she is fighting her way up the ranks to gain the woman’s approval…and falling for Cain, the mysterious boy living in the basement.
But the home has horrible secrets. So do the girls living there. So does Cain.
Escaping is harder than Domino expects, though, because Ms. Karina doesn’t like to lose inventory. But then, she doesn’t know about the danger living inside Domino’s mind.
She doesn’t know about Wilson.
But the voice inside her head has a different name.
When the mysterious Ms. Karina finds Domino in an alleyway, she offers her a position at her girls’ home in secluded West Texas. With no alternatives and an agenda of her own, Domino accepts. It isn’t long before she is fighting her way up the ranks to gain the woman’s approval…and falling for Cain, the mysterious boy living in the basement.
But the home has horrible secrets. So do the girls living there. So does Cain.
Escaping is harder than Domino expects, though, because Ms. Karina doesn’t like to lose inventory. But then, she doesn’t know about the danger living inside Domino’s mind.
She doesn’t know about Wilson.
366 pages, Hardcover
First published May 16, 2017
About the author
Victoria Scott
62 books2,932 followersVictoria Scott is the acclaimed author of nine novels including FIRE & FLOOD, THE COLLECTOR, and TITANS. Victoria’s books have been YALSA-nominated, have appeared on the prestigious Spirit of Texas Reading Program, and have been included on Bank Street College of Education's Best Books of the Year list. Her stories have been translated and sold in fourteen countries, and FIRE & FLOOD is currently an Amazon Teacher's Pick selection.
Victoria is also the owner and founder of Scribbler, a monthly mailing that functions as a writing conference in a box. Scribbler has been featured by BuzzFeed, Good Morning Texas, and NaNoWriMo. Victoria holds a master’s degree in business management, and plans to expand Scribbler into an all-inclusive resource for novelists.
Victoria is also the owner and founder of Scribbler, a monthly mailing that functions as a writing conference in a box. Scribbler has been featured by BuzzFeed, Good Morning Texas, and NaNoWriMo. Victoria holds a master’s degree in business management, and plans to expand Scribbler into an all-inclusive resource for novelists.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 247 reviews
May 13, 2017
Well that went fast XD
Thanks so much to the publisher and author and her assistant for sending this ARC to me through NetGalley!
Very very addictive & very dark, Violet Grenade was a really fast paced, great story! I'd definitely recommend this to anyone who loves dark thrillers!
I'm also going to put a trigger warning for sexual assault here just in case. It doesn't get all the way to rape, but assault is assault and that doesn't change.
The one thing I'd say that stopped me from giving it 5 stars was one scene in the beginning of the book. Domino first gets into the house and the girls who are already there basically haze her. I absolutely cannot stand hazing; I just don't understand it. But despite that one scene, the rest of the book was actually really good!
Thanks so much to the publisher and author and her assistant for sending this ARC to me through NetGalley!
Very very addictive & very dark, Violet Grenade was a really fast paced, great story! I'd definitely recommend this to anyone who loves dark thrillers!
I'm also going to put a trigger warning for sexual assault here just in case. It doesn't get all the way to rape, but assault is assault and that doesn't change.
The one thing I'd say that stopped me from giving it 5 stars was one scene in the beginning of the book. Domino first gets into the house and the girls who are already there basically haze her. I absolutely cannot stand hazing; I just don't understand it. But despite that one scene, the rest of the book was actually really good!
October 5, 2017
4 stars. Probably Scott's best yet!
***Review posted on The Eater of Books! blog***
Violet Grenade by Victoria Scott
Publisher: Entangled Teen
Publication Date: May 16, 2017
Rating: 4 stars
Source: eARC from NetGalley
Summary (from Goodreads):
DOMINO: A runaway with blood on her hands.
CAIN: A silent boy about to explode.
MADAM KARINA: A woman who demands obedience.
WILSON: The one who will destroy them all.
When Madam Karina discovers Domino in an alleyway, she offers her a position inside her home for entertainers in secluded West Texas. Left with few alternatives and an agenda of her own, Domino accepts. It isn’t long before she is fighting her way up the ranks to gain the madam’s approval. But after suffering weeks of bullying and unearthing the madam’s secrets, Domino decides to leave. It’ll be harder than she thinks, though, because the madam doesn’t like to lose inventory. But then, Madam Karina doesn’t know about the person living inside Domino’s mind.
Madam Karina doesn’t know about Wilson.
What I Liked:
I haven't read a ton of YA psychological thrillers, mostly because they freak me out. Michelle Hodkin's Mara Dyer books left me reeling. Vicarious by Paula Stokes is another great psychological thriller, and I think you can consider A World Without You by Beth Revis one too. Violet Grenade was an intriguing, nail-biting, shocking novel that I couldn't put down.
Domino is a runaway who has been living in an abandoned house with a boy named Dizzy, who has been a friend and companion to her. After years of living with her mother/her mother's insanity, Domino got away. But when Dizzy is arrested for shoplifting, Domino is alone. Until a woman makes her deal: come live with her in her home for burgeoning entertainers, and Domino can work for money to do what she would like. But when Domino gets to this home in West Texas, she realizes that this home isn't really home, and she can't really leave. She earns close to no money, she has no power, and she has nowhere to go. All she can do is try to work her way up the ranks of the flowers, from a bottom feeder to the coveted Violet spot, the best of entertainers. Domino isn't afraid of this strange place, because she has something no one else has - Wilson.
You can probably already tell where this is going: Madam Karina's home for burgeoning entertainers has all kinds of entertainment going on... and Domino has split-personality disorder. I'll talk about both of those.
Starting with Domino! Her split-personality is never named in terms of a medical condition - probably because this book is written in first-person, and it's not like Domino has been diagnosed by medical professionals. She developed the second personality (Wilson) when she wasn't strong enough to handle what her mother was making her do. Her mother made her do The Thing for years, and Wilson grew stronger for years. And since you're probably wondering what The Thing is - no, the mother wasn't pimping out Domino. Domino is a virgin.
Domino hides behind a think wall and tries not to let anyone in, or the past out. She has Wilson, and she had Dizzy, and things were fine until Dizzy gets arrested. Making the decision to take up Madam Karina on the offer and leave Detroit for West Texas is both stupid and smart, irrational and incredibly brave. Surviving for as long as she did in Madam Karina's house took strength, strength that wasn't just Wilson's, but was Domino's alone. Which is confusing in a way, because Domino and Wilson are the same person. But not really. Split-personality, remember?
So, Madam Karina's house. Madam Karina finds Domino and asks her to come to this home of burgeoning artists, because Madam Karina sees Domino's graffiti art on a structure. Domino is an excellent graffiti artist. At the home, Domino starts at the bottom, simply interacting and talking with visitors. The next level has her doing the same, but a little more interaction. The next level has her interacting with customers like one would in a nightclub - dancing with them. The next level has Domino allowing them to touch her - brushes on the arm, waist, hair. The next level? Domino isn't prepared for that level. You can probably guess - it's my exact first thought when this home of burgeoning entertainers appeared in the story. The next/top level is entertaining guests in terms of sex. Which broke my heart because this sort of thing happens all the time, with young girls.
Domino didn't intend to want to climb ranks, but she quickly figures out that she can make more money in the higher ranks, and she can possibly have more freedom and be safer in a high rank. She and her friend Poppet start climbing the ranks rapidly, which is unusual. Other girls notice, and hate them for it. Domino and Poppet have to live through a lot of petty and sometimes dangerous tricks and behaviors from the other girls.
I liked Domino, and I liked Wilson. Wilson has his own temper and flair and attitude (which is weird, I know), and he is extremely protective of Domino. Domino doesn't like to let Wilson take over, and she lets it happen rarely. It's frightening, what happens when Wilson is around.
Cain is easily just as important a character as Domino. He is huge, built like a boxer and a football player, and he doesn't say much. A wealth of pain and suffering appears in his eyes, in his demeanor, in his gait, and his story is a tough one for Domino to nail down. He is a hard young man with a harsh past, but he's a good person who takes too much crap from the girls at the home. Cain is probably my favorite character, because of how good of a person he is, despite everything that has happened to him, and everything he had to do. Sort of like Domino.
Yes, there is a budding romance between Cain and Domino. They grow to care for each other, which is lovely to watch, considering how guarded both of them are. They are great together, with both of them being brutally honest and blunt with each other. They understand each other, and they have a great connection. They share some pretty intense moments!
This book had me on edge! Domino made me nervous, as did Wilson, but so did Madam Karina, her lackeys (Mr. Hodge and Eric), and the other girls at the home. Domino didn't trust anyone, not even Poppet and Cain (until after a while). Everyone in the home freaked me out a little, especially with all of the emotional manipulation happening. I shuddered a lot, while reading this book. I'm glad the author didn't have Domino cross a certain line, like she was going to.
One thing that really had me hooked was the slow pace of the informational reveals. We don't get all of the information at once. We don't find out immediately about what Domino's mother had Domino do, or where Domino's father went, or what awful thing Cain did in his past, or what is really going in Madam Karina's house, or what the top-level girls really do. Everything is revealed gradually, but not so slowly that you're bored or lose interest.
Overall, this book both freaked me out a little and had me entranced. There was no way I was going to stop reading, until the very end. This book has a very fair and neat ending, one that I'm glad happened the way it did.
What I Did Not Like:
Perhaps I wanted to see a little more acknowledgement in terms of Domino's disorder. Obviously, since this book was written in Domino's first-person POV, Domino isn't going to walk around knowing she has split-personality disorder (because she doesn't know that that's what it is). She knows that Wilson exists because she couldn't handle the bad things that she was seeing and had to do, years ago. I still would have liked for her condition to be acknowledged in medical terms, and for the resolution of her disorder to be a little less yay-I'm-cured-now.
Would I Recommend It:
If you like psychological thrillers, I highly recommend this book. I haven't read enough to say that I'm a super fan, but I enjoy one every now and then. This book was pretty incredible and has me arm covered in goosebumps, so I'd say it's a good psychological thriller to try. Scott is a very experienced YA author who has tried many different genres, and I think she did a great job with this genre.
Rating:
4 stars. Dare I say that this is Scott's best novel? I've read her Dante Walker trilogy, and her Fire & Flood duology, and Salt & Stone. I think this is her best book! Less silly and humorous like her previous books (I loved the silliness and humor though), and more intense and mysterious (with a slight dose of humor every now and then, especially from Wilson). Plus, who could resist that gorgeous cover?
***Review posted on The Eater of Books! blog***
Violet Grenade by Victoria Scott
Publisher: Entangled Teen
Publication Date: May 16, 2017
Rating: 4 stars
Source: eARC from NetGalley
Summary (from Goodreads):
DOMINO: A runaway with blood on her hands.
CAIN: A silent boy about to explode.
MADAM KARINA: A woman who demands obedience.
WILSON: The one who will destroy them all.
When Madam Karina discovers Domino in an alleyway, she offers her a position inside her home for entertainers in secluded West Texas. Left with few alternatives and an agenda of her own, Domino accepts. It isn’t long before she is fighting her way up the ranks to gain the madam’s approval. But after suffering weeks of bullying and unearthing the madam’s secrets, Domino decides to leave. It’ll be harder than she thinks, though, because the madam doesn’t like to lose inventory. But then, Madam Karina doesn’t know about the person living inside Domino’s mind.
Madam Karina doesn’t know about Wilson.
What I Liked:
I haven't read a ton of YA psychological thrillers, mostly because they freak me out. Michelle Hodkin's Mara Dyer books left me reeling. Vicarious by Paula Stokes is another great psychological thriller, and I think you can consider A World Without You by Beth Revis one too. Violet Grenade was an intriguing, nail-biting, shocking novel that I couldn't put down.
Domino is a runaway who has been living in an abandoned house with a boy named Dizzy, who has been a friend and companion to her. After years of living with her mother/her mother's insanity, Domino got away. But when Dizzy is arrested for shoplifting, Domino is alone. Until a woman makes her deal: come live with her in her home for burgeoning entertainers, and Domino can work for money to do what she would like. But when Domino gets to this home in West Texas, she realizes that this home isn't really home, and she can't really leave. She earns close to no money, she has no power, and she has nowhere to go. All she can do is try to work her way up the ranks of the flowers, from a bottom feeder to the coveted Violet spot, the best of entertainers. Domino isn't afraid of this strange place, because she has something no one else has - Wilson.
You can probably already tell where this is going: Madam Karina's home for burgeoning entertainers has all kinds of entertainment going on... and Domino has split-personality disorder. I'll talk about both of those.
Starting with Domino! Her split-personality is never named in terms of a medical condition - probably because this book is written in first-person, and it's not like Domino has been diagnosed by medical professionals. She developed the second personality (Wilson) when she wasn't strong enough to handle what her mother was making her do. Her mother made her do The Thing for years, and Wilson grew stronger for years. And since you're probably wondering what The Thing is - no, the mother wasn't pimping out Domino. Domino is a virgin.
Domino hides behind a think wall and tries not to let anyone in, or the past out. She has Wilson, and she had Dizzy, and things were fine until Dizzy gets arrested. Making the decision to take up Madam Karina on the offer and leave Detroit for West Texas is both stupid and smart, irrational and incredibly brave. Surviving for as long as she did in Madam Karina's house took strength, strength that wasn't just Wilson's, but was Domino's alone. Which is confusing in a way, because Domino and Wilson are the same person. But not really. Split-personality, remember?
So, Madam Karina's house. Madam Karina finds Domino and asks her to come to this home of burgeoning artists, because Madam Karina sees Domino's graffiti art on a structure. Domino is an excellent graffiti artist. At the home, Domino starts at the bottom, simply interacting and talking with visitors. The next level has her doing the same, but a little more interaction. The next level has her interacting with customers like one would in a nightclub - dancing with them. The next level has Domino allowing them to touch her - brushes on the arm, waist, hair. The next level? Domino isn't prepared for that level. You can probably guess - it's my exact first thought when this home of burgeoning entertainers appeared in the story. The next/top level is entertaining guests in terms of sex. Which broke my heart because this sort of thing happens all the time, with young girls.
Domino didn't intend to want to climb ranks, but she quickly figures out that she can make more money in the higher ranks, and she can possibly have more freedom and be safer in a high rank. She and her friend Poppet start climbing the ranks rapidly, which is unusual. Other girls notice, and hate them for it. Domino and Poppet have to live through a lot of petty and sometimes dangerous tricks and behaviors from the other girls.
I liked Domino, and I liked Wilson. Wilson has his own temper and flair and attitude (which is weird, I know), and he is extremely protective of Domino. Domino doesn't like to let Wilson take over, and she lets it happen rarely. It's frightening, what happens when Wilson is around.
Cain is easily just as important a character as Domino. He is huge, built like a boxer and a football player, and he doesn't say much. A wealth of pain and suffering appears in his eyes, in his demeanor, in his gait, and his story is a tough one for Domino to nail down. He is a hard young man with a harsh past, but he's a good person who takes too much crap from the girls at the home. Cain is probably my favorite character, because of how good of a person he is, despite everything that has happened to him, and everything he had to do. Sort of like Domino.
Yes, there is a budding romance between Cain and Domino. They grow to care for each other, which is lovely to watch, considering how guarded both of them are. They are great together, with both of them being brutally honest and blunt with each other. They understand each other, and they have a great connection. They share some pretty intense moments!
This book had me on edge! Domino made me nervous, as did Wilson, but so did Madam Karina, her lackeys (Mr. Hodge and Eric), and the other girls at the home. Domino didn't trust anyone, not even Poppet and Cain (until after a while). Everyone in the home freaked me out a little, especially with all of the emotional manipulation happening. I shuddered a lot, while reading this book. I'm glad the author didn't have Domino cross a certain line, like she was going to.
One thing that really had me hooked was the slow pace of the informational reveals. We don't get all of the information at once. We don't find out immediately about what Domino's mother had Domino do, or where Domino's father went, or what awful thing Cain did in his past, or what is really going in Madam Karina's house, or what the top-level girls really do. Everything is revealed gradually, but not so slowly that you're bored or lose interest.
Overall, this book both freaked me out a little and had me entranced. There was no way I was going to stop reading, until the very end. This book has a very fair and neat ending, one that I'm glad happened the way it did.
What I Did Not Like:
Perhaps I wanted to see a little more acknowledgement in terms of Domino's disorder. Obviously, since this book was written in Domino's first-person POV, Domino isn't going to walk around knowing she has split-personality disorder (because she doesn't know that that's what it is). She knows that Wilson exists because she couldn't handle the bad things that she was seeing and had to do, years ago. I still would have liked for her condition to be acknowledged in medical terms, and for the resolution of her disorder to be a little less yay-I'm-cured-now.
Would I Recommend It:
If you like psychological thrillers, I highly recommend this book. I haven't read enough to say that I'm a super fan, but I enjoy one every now and then. This book was pretty incredible and has me arm covered in goosebumps, so I'd say it's a good psychological thriller to try. Scott is a very experienced YA author who has tried many different genres, and I think she did a great job with this genre.
Rating:
4 stars. Dare I say that this is Scott's best novel? I've read her Dante Walker trilogy, and her Fire & Flood duology, and Salt & Stone. I think this is her best book! Less silly and humorous like her previous books (I loved the silliness and humor though), and more intense and mysterious (with a slight dose of humor every now and then, especially from Wilson). Plus, who could resist that gorgeous cover?
February 9, 2017
This was so perfect in so many ways that I CAN'T EVEN DEAL.
Violet Grenade was gritty and dark, engaging and romantic. Domino was an incredibly strong and smart heroine who was that perfect middle-ground character: she knew when to keep her mouth shut, but could whip out a witty one-liner or threat in an instant. She was fearless and loyal, overcoming a horrific past, struggling to come to terms with not only herself, but her demons.
There wasn't a damn moment to breathe in this book. The plot took off like a gun shot and there was always SOMETHING happening.
Madam Karina and her Crusty Ass Home for Burgeoning Entertainers was refreshing and creepy, both a home for these lost girls and also an absolute hell hole. The girls were vindictive and cruel, willing to push and shove and claw their way to the top. There were a few good gems (aka Poppet, the greatest human being on earth) but most of them were literal trash. While I'm not usually one to condone girls constantly hating each other and getting into fights (lord knows there is too much of that in our every day lives) I couldn't help but it enjoy it. There was something about that house that just seemed so raw, so universally good AND bad that you couldn't help but want to stay. Or maybe I was just in the mood for a book that was a little violent and bloody. EITHER WAY, I loved the viciousness. It just made the revenge that much sweeter.
And speaking of revenges and viciousness... I loved Wilson with my entire body and soul. Just sayin'. (Wilson is here, Wilson is here, WILSON IS HERE.)
Oh, and Cain too. And Poppet. Seriously, it's rare for me to like ALL the secondary characters in some shape or form, yet here we are.
DO YOURSELF A FAVOR AND READ THIS.
Violet Grenade was gritty and dark, engaging and romantic. Domino was an incredibly strong and smart heroine who was that perfect middle-ground character: she knew when to keep her mouth shut, but could whip out a witty one-liner or threat in an instant. She was fearless and loyal, overcoming a horrific past, struggling to come to terms with not only herself, but her demons.
There wasn't a damn moment to breathe in this book. The plot took off like a gun shot and there was always SOMETHING happening.
Madam Karina and her Crusty Ass Home for Burgeoning Entertainers was refreshing and creepy, both a home for these lost girls and also an absolute hell hole. The girls were vindictive and cruel, willing to push and shove and claw their way to the top. There were a few good gems (aka Poppet, the greatest human being on earth) but most of them were literal trash. While I'm not usually one to condone girls constantly hating each other and getting into fights (lord knows there is too much of that in our every day lives) I couldn't help but it enjoy it. There was something about that house that just seemed so raw, so universally good AND bad that you couldn't help but want to stay. Or maybe I was just in the mood for a book that was a little violent and bloody. EITHER WAY, I loved the viciousness. It just made the revenge that much sweeter.
And speaking of revenges and viciousness... I loved Wilson with my entire body and soul. Just sayin'. (Wilson is here, Wilson is here, WILSON IS HERE.)
Oh, and Cain too. And Poppet. Seriously, it's rare for me to like ALL the secondary characters in some shape or form, yet here we are.
DO YOURSELF A FAVOR AND READ THIS.
May 26, 2017
The concept for this YA psychological thriller started with a spark for two different book ideas. On one side of my brain, I was playing with the vision of a girl getting attacked in an alleyway. The mugger believes her to be the perfect victim to rob, or kidnap, or kill. What he doesn’t know is she’s twice the terror he is, though looks would tell you otherwise. I’ve always liked the idea of a land mine of a human being. Someone who could explode at any moment, but absolutely no one would suspect it. This twisted love ultimately delivered me my main character, Domino.
The other idea I was toying with was the story of a quiet, abused boxer who falls in love with a girl. She’s the only one who cares for him, and accepts him, so when someone threatens her, this quiet boy unleashes his size, strength, and bottled rage onto those who would bring her harm. This attraction to a quiet, volatile boy ultimately delivered me my secondary character, Cain.
When these two ideas, or rather characters, converged, I knew I had the makings of a book I wanted to write. Those initial sparks have changed immensely, but the end result is similar. VIOLET GRENADE is the story of a runaway named Domino. She’s fairly quiet, and reserved… But she has a secret. A darkness she carries that even her best friend doesn’t suspect. Domino Ray has dissociative identity disorder, and a second personality she’s trying desperately to suppress. Heaven help the person who pushes her too far.
And Cain? Well, let’s just say he’s got issues of his own.
Who wants to take the honors of shipping Domino and Cain? Anyone? Anyone?
The other idea I was toying with was the story of a quiet, abused boxer who falls in love with a girl. She’s the only one who cares for him, and accepts him, so when someone threatens her, this quiet boy unleashes his size, strength, and bottled rage onto those who would bring her harm. This attraction to a quiet, volatile boy ultimately delivered me my secondary character, Cain.
When these two ideas, or rather characters, converged, I knew I had the makings of a book I wanted to write. Those initial sparks have changed immensely, but the end result is similar. VIOLET GRENADE is the story of a runaway named Domino. She’s fairly quiet, and reserved… But she has a secret. A darkness she carries that even her best friend doesn’t suspect. Domino Ray has dissociative identity disorder, and a second personality she’s trying desperately to suppress. Heaven help the person who pushes her too far.
And Cain? Well, let’s just say he’s got issues of his own.
Who wants to take the honors of shipping Domino and Cain? Anyone? Anyone?
February 5, 2017
*I received a free ARC from Entangled Teen in exchange for an honest review*
WHAT. JUST WHAT IS THIS AWESOMENESS.
For some reason i thought this book was taking place in the Victorian era and that it was a fantasy novel but it's actually a contemporary PSYCHOLOGICAL YA THRILLER.
Domino has been homeless for awhile and she lives with a friend named Dizzy. But when Dizzy gets taken in by the police and Domino doesn't have enough money to bail him out, she vows to do anything it takes to get the money and bail her only friend out, even if it means following up on Madam Karina's offer and joining the house of entertainers. But Domino does not expect the hierarchy of girls in the house nor does she expect the gentle and scared helper, Cain, who seems to be not so different from her than she'd first expected. But to bail Dizzy out, she can't stay in the lower class of girls, she'll have to work her way up to the top while dealing with jealous, dangerous and backstabbing girls that want nothing more than to stop her from moving up the ranks. But the longer she stays in the house, the more she realizes it won't be easy to leave and that she might not want to leave.
This book is a mass of darkness and awesomeness!!!! Do not expect dainty little flowers and strolls in the garden. EXCELLENT world building and plot, also what a gorgeous cover!!! It really was a thrill reading this book. And the author did an amazing job at keeping the suspense about Domino-throughout the book you're reminded that Domino has done bad things and that she's a monster but you don't know why until she eventually reveals it-and i honestly didn't see it coming. It was much darker than i'd initially expected. Each level of girls had their own personality and jobs, it was just so well imagined!!!
Domino was a very unusual character. She doesn't really let anyone in because she's scared they'll leave her so she could come off as a little cold. And the thing is, she truly believes she's a monster and even though Wilson helps to keep those memories away from her she can't escape them no matter how much she tries. She was brave, stubborn and loyal but she was a pretty intense character. And she loves wigs!!!!!I found that totally unique and cool that she wore hot pink and green wigs and she didn't care what anyone thought of her. She was a dreamer, she wanted to one day buy her own place and make a life for herself. I loved the way she clung to that dream through everything that happened.
Cain was a character that had been mentally manipulated a lot and it was sad because he was exuding power and yet he was reduced to this submissive helper who just allowed the girls to verbally abuse him. I liked that he didn't judge Domino because he had his demons too and he was her secret protector in the house. he was such a gentle giant!!
Madam Karina was an amazing antagonist though after everything i can't bring myself to hate her. She's as mentally scarred as the other characters but she took it to a much MUCH deeper level. But in the end it just rooted from her insecurities. I loved that she was charismatic enough to hold some kind of power over the girls and even Domino. It made them want to make her happy and she did feel a special connection to Domino.
Wilson-the voice inside Domino's head. Is he real or not!? It could be someone she created to shield herself from the terrible thing's she'd done, someone to protect her from her memories and her violent past. He was incredibly violent and always waiting to pounce on Domino so he could take over her body and give in to the rage and violence. Yet despite all that and his blood thirst he only wanted to protect Domino, that was his goal. To make sure no one hurt her which just fascinated me so much because we don't actually know if he is Domino or is he actually a totally different character? Nevertheless I LOVED HIM. LOVED HIM LOVED HIM LOVED HIM. Damn i wish i could spoil but there were these two pages in my kindle (you'll definitely know it when you see it) at the end that literally made me squeal like a maniac and shiver at the same time!!! The formatting of these two pages-DAMN it made an AMAZING effect..you'll know what i'm talking about as soon as you read it. Yeah so i love Wilson.
This whole book felt like a manipulation of minds and god was it awesome!!! All the characters in this book felt like time bombs and i was just waiting for one of them to mentally collapse and unleash hell!
Whew this was a long review sorry but i JUST NEEDED TO RANT. It's a standalone and definitely worth it!! I cannot wait till the hardcover comes out because i am SO buying this!!! RECOMMENDED TO EVERYONE.
WHAT. JUST WHAT IS THIS AWESOMENESS.
For some reason i thought this book was taking place in the Victorian era and that it was a fantasy novel but it's actually a contemporary PSYCHOLOGICAL YA THRILLER.
Domino has been homeless for awhile and she lives with a friend named Dizzy. But when Dizzy gets taken in by the police and Domino doesn't have enough money to bail him out, she vows to do anything it takes to get the money and bail her only friend out, even if it means following up on Madam Karina's offer and joining the house of entertainers. But Domino does not expect the hierarchy of girls in the house nor does she expect the gentle and scared helper, Cain, who seems to be not so different from her than she'd first expected. But to bail Dizzy out, she can't stay in the lower class of girls, she'll have to work her way up to the top while dealing with jealous, dangerous and backstabbing girls that want nothing more than to stop her from moving up the ranks. But the longer she stays in the house, the more she realizes it won't be easy to leave and that she might not want to leave.
This book is a mass of darkness and awesomeness!!!! Do not expect dainty little flowers and strolls in the garden. EXCELLENT world building and plot, also what a gorgeous cover!!! It really was a thrill reading this book. And the author did an amazing job at keeping the suspense about Domino-throughout the book you're reminded that Domino has done bad things and that she's a monster but you don't know why until she eventually reveals it-and i honestly didn't see it coming. It was much darker than i'd initially expected. Each level of girls had their own personality and jobs, it was just so well imagined!!!
Domino was a very unusual character. She doesn't really let anyone in because she's scared they'll leave her so she could come off as a little cold. And the thing is, she truly believes she's a monster and even though Wilson helps to keep those memories away from her she can't escape them no matter how much she tries. She was brave, stubborn and loyal but she was a pretty intense character. And she loves wigs!!!!!I found that totally unique and cool that she wore hot pink and green wigs and she didn't care what anyone thought of her. She was a dreamer, she wanted to one day buy her own place and make a life for herself. I loved the way she clung to that dream through everything that happened.
Cain was a character that had been mentally manipulated a lot and it was sad because he was exuding power and yet he was reduced to this submissive helper who just allowed the girls to verbally abuse him. I liked that he didn't judge Domino because he had his demons too and he was her secret protector in the house. he was such a gentle giant!!
Madam Karina was an amazing antagonist though after everything i can't bring myself to hate her. She's as mentally scarred as the other characters but she took it to a much MUCH deeper level. But in the end it just rooted from her insecurities. I loved that she was charismatic enough to hold some kind of power over the girls and even Domino. It made them want to make her happy and she did feel a special connection to Domino.
Wilson-the voice inside Domino's head. Is he real or not!? It could be someone she created to shield herself from the terrible thing's she'd done, someone to protect her from her memories and her violent past. He was incredibly violent and always waiting to pounce on Domino so he could take over her body and give in to the rage and violence. Yet despite all that and his blood thirst he only wanted to protect Domino, that was his goal. To make sure no one hurt her which just fascinated me so much because we don't actually know if he is Domino or is he actually a totally different character? Nevertheless I LOVED HIM. LOVED HIM LOVED HIM LOVED HIM. Damn i wish i could spoil but there were these two pages in my kindle (you'll definitely know it when you see it) at the end that literally made me squeal like a maniac and shiver at the same time!!! The formatting of these two pages-DAMN it made an AMAZING effect..you'll know what i'm talking about as soon as you read it. Yeah so i love Wilson.
This whole book felt like a manipulation of minds and god was it awesome!!! All the characters in this book felt like time bombs and i was just waiting for one of them to mentally collapse and unleash hell!
Whew this was a long review sorry but i JUST NEEDED TO RANT. It's a standalone and definitely worth it!! I cannot wait till the hardcover comes out because i am SO buying this!!! RECOMMENDED TO EVERYONE.
April 1, 2017
VIOLET GRENADE is aptly named as this story felt much like a bomb. It starts out small, feels almost familiar even if you've never held it before, but cannot be contained by it's packaging once the fuse is lit. And what happens after, in the wake of the explosion, is almost.. too much to process. That's this book in a nutshell.
While this story is weird, filled with unusual characters and a completely unique premise, it's not beyond scope. It'll feel almost like something you've read before and yet totally turned on it's head. Scott's writing is heartbreaking and beautiful and out of this world amazing. The themes are dark and yet hopeful. The mystery compels you even as the journey to get there is fraught with conflict and uncertainties. And when everything comes to a head.. you cannot look away.
For all the unreality of the setting, I'm sure in some ways it's very real. And that's how this book felt. It's a contemporary that seems almost fantasy, or maybe just fantastical, and yet so grounded and raw. I loved the characters, Cain most of all, but Domino was just.. something else. Being in her head was an experience and you won't be the only one in there with her! But that's all I'll say about that.
This book is messed up and bizarre and tragic and whimsical and horrifying and yet even when you doubt you understand what's going on, even if you question pushing on, you will. Because when you hit that 50% mark you won't be able to put this down. VIOLET GRENADE will sink it's teeth into you and will not let you go. And you'll love the pain of the bite.
4 "wilson is here" stars
** I received an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher (thank you!) in exchange for an honest review. **
While this story is weird, filled with unusual characters and a completely unique premise, it's not beyond scope. It'll feel almost like something you've read before and yet totally turned on it's head. Scott's writing is heartbreaking and beautiful and out of this world amazing. The themes are dark and yet hopeful. The mystery compels you even as the journey to get there is fraught with conflict and uncertainties. And when everything comes to a head.. you cannot look away.
For all the unreality of the setting, I'm sure in some ways it's very real. And that's how this book felt. It's a contemporary that seems almost fantasy, or maybe just fantastical, and yet so grounded and raw. I loved the characters, Cain most of all, but Domino was just.. something else. Being in her head was an experience and you won't be the only one in there with her! But that's all I'll say about that.
This book is messed up and bizarre and tragic and whimsical and horrifying and yet even when you doubt you understand what's going on, even if you question pushing on, you will. Because when you hit that 50% mark you won't be able to put this down. VIOLET GRENADE will sink it's teeth into you and will not let you go. And you'll love the pain of the bite.
4 "wilson is here" stars
** I received an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher (thank you!) in exchange for an honest review. **
March 19, 2017
I've seen almost exclusively positive reviews for Violet Grenade so I feel like I'm the odd one out for not loving it. I'd read one of Victoria's other books, Titans, and I loved it so I was really pumped to explore her other books.
I can't really put my finger on why this book wasn't for me but it just hit me the wrong way. Right away, there was something about the main character and writing that felt off to me. I can't really explain it but it felt almost... fragmented. Like a rough draft or something. The main character, Domino, was just weird. I couldn't connect to her at all and she felt unnatural. It was never really acknowledged that Domino seemingly had a mental illness (I thought she had schizophrenia) and her illness was more of a plot device.
The plot was predictable and unengaging to me and I just couldn't get into it.
Overall, this book wasn't for me. I've seen tons of great reviews for Violet Grenade so maybe I'm just being overly critical. However, if you're triggered or sensitive to schizophrenia or mental illness not being completely addressed in a book, I would recommend not reading Violet Grenade.
I can't really put my finger on why this book wasn't for me but it just hit me the wrong way. Right away, there was something about the main character and writing that felt off to me. I can't really explain it but it felt almost... fragmented. Like a rough draft or something. The main character, Domino, was just weird. I couldn't connect to her at all and she felt unnatural. It was never really acknowledged that Domino seemingly had a mental illness (I thought she had schizophrenia) and her illness was more of a plot device.
The plot was predictable and unengaging to me and I just couldn't get into it.
Overall, this book wasn't for me. I've seen tons of great reviews for Violet Grenade so maybe I'm just being overly critical. However, if you're triggered or sensitive to schizophrenia or mental illness not being completely addressed in a book, I would recommend not reading Violet Grenade.
Shelved as 'wishlist'
January 29, 2022Not me reviewing all this older YA that everyone else has half-forgotten about*
*LOLJK, it's totally me, your pink-haired Aunt Trashcan
*LOLJK, it's totally me, your pink-haired Aunt Trashcan
October 5, 2021
Real Rating: 4.8
Eeeeeekkkkkk! Oh my goodness on a flying witches broom, I cannot with my life. I just can’t. I loved this. I loved WILSON! Seriously, when I’m capable of thinking clear I’ll write a full review. Jeebus on a cracker, just wow. Wow.
Eeeeeekkkkkk! Oh my goodness on a flying witches broom, I cannot with my life. I just can’t. I loved this. I loved WILSON! Seriously, when I’m capable of thinking clear I’ll write a full review. Jeebus on a cracker, just wow. Wow.
May 18, 2017
Why have I not heard of Victoria Scott before this book??? Boy does she know how to write some amazing, yet slightly bizarre characters and a very spine-tingling story with one hell of a twist. This book was way more than I anticipated it to be.
I really don't want to give too much away on this book because it's just so good going in totally blind. This story is very unique in that the characters are different and have their own "quirks." I was pulled into this story because it was different than what I have been reading recently and these characters intrigued me.
I needed to know how this story panned out. Not just the ending, but the journey of this story. Domino is very different character - she's resourceful when she needs to be but very tortured young woman. Cain, even with his own secrets, he's a gentle giant. He was a nice surprise to me. Karina - she's something else, let me tell you. She's just as mentally unstable as the others but runs the shit show that allows the others to earn their money. And Wilson - just read the book to learn about this character. I will only say that Wilson is the neurotic and explosive one in this book.
Violent Grenade is a wild and crazy journey. There will be times that you will question your sanity for wanting to continue reading but at the same time, you know you would be insane to not continue.
Even though this is YA book, it is a psychological thriller with some very twisted and messed up shit. But if you are like, this is what keeps you glued to the pages and giving up sleep to finish the book because damnit, I NEED TO KNOW WHAT HAPPENS!!!!
I really don't want to give too much away on this book because it's just so good going in totally blind. This story is very unique in that the characters are different and have their own "quirks." I was pulled into this story because it was different than what I have been reading recently and these characters intrigued me.
I needed to know how this story panned out. Not just the ending, but the journey of this story. Domino is very different character - she's resourceful when she needs to be but very tortured young woman. Cain, even with his own secrets, he's a gentle giant. He was a nice surprise to me. Karina - she's something else, let me tell you. She's just as mentally unstable as the others but runs the shit show that allows the others to earn their money. And Wilson - just read the book to learn about this character. I will only say that Wilson is the neurotic and explosive one in this book.
Violent Grenade is a wild and crazy journey. There will be times that you will question your sanity for wanting to continue reading but at the same time, you know you would be insane to not continue.
Even though this is YA book, it is a psychological thriller with some very twisted and messed up shit. But if you are like, this is what keeps you glued to the pages and giving up sleep to finish the book because damnit, I NEED TO KNOW WHAT HAPPENS!!!!
March 12, 2017
Seriously, Violet Grenade is brilliant. It has an underlying dark humor that had me laughing out loud throughout the book, even though that isn't always the case with those kinds of comedic elements. It is also as creepy af - both while Domino is living in and working up the ranks in Madam Karina's Home for Burgeoning Entertainers and in flashbacks and memories of her past. You'll always have a sinking suspicion of where these elements will be heading, but there are twists along the way that you'll never see coming.
Most importantly, for a book like this, are the characters of Domino Ray and Wilson. They each have distinct voices and personalities, so readers will never mis the clues about who is in control of the narrative at any point. And then of course, there's Cain. Sweet, quiet, stone giant of a boy-man that he is. There is a slow burn connection between the two of them, and it's great. And of course, who could forget Domino's friendship with Poppet - in a world where girls are competitive and vindictive to one another, where manipulation and two-faced behaviour is common place - Domino and Poppet stick together through it all, and I think young women need more books with this kind of loyalty in them.
Finally, the metaphors, allusions, references, and all things metafictional. This novel is chockfull of these literary elements and references to everything from nursery rhymes, colloquial expressions, song lyrics, famous books and characters, and more. Readers might not be able to place all of them, but there appearance in so many sections elevated this book for me.
Violet Grenade made be the first Victoria Scott book Id ever read, but it definitely won't be my last.
Most importantly, for a book like this, are the characters of Domino Ray and Wilson. They each have distinct voices and personalities, so readers will never mis the clues about who is in control of the narrative at any point. And then of course, there's Cain. Sweet, quiet, stone giant of a boy-man that he is. There is a slow burn connection between the two of them, and it's great. And of course, who could forget Domino's friendship with Poppet - in a world where girls are competitive and vindictive to one another, where manipulation and two-faced behaviour is common place - Domino and Poppet stick together through it all, and I think young women need more books with this kind of loyalty in them.
Finally, the metaphors, allusions, references, and all things metafictional. This novel is chockfull of these literary elements and references to everything from nursery rhymes, colloquial expressions, song lyrics, famous books and characters, and more. Readers might not be able to place all of them, but there appearance in so many sections elevated this book for me.
Violet Grenade made be the first Victoria Scott book Id ever read, but it definitely won't be my last.
April 28, 2017
*Source* Publisher
*Genre* Young Adult Fiction / Romance
*Rating* 3.5-4
*My Thoughts*
Victoria Scott, author of books such as Fire & Flood, and Salt & Stone, returns with Violet Grenade, a story that is dark, gritty, & engaging. It is a story that is stunning brilliant in the way the author interweaves her story between Domino Ray, and Wilson, a character who will have you on the edge of your seat wondering what will happen next. 17-year old Domino Ray lives on the streets. She desperately wants wants a home of her own, and a safe place where she won't have to worry about where she gets her next meal.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
http://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/201...
*Genre* Young Adult Fiction / Romance
*Rating* 3.5-4
*My Thoughts*
Victoria Scott, author of books such as Fire & Flood, and Salt & Stone, returns with Violet Grenade, a story that is dark, gritty, & engaging. It is a story that is stunning brilliant in the way the author interweaves her story between Domino Ray, and Wilson, a character who will have you on the edge of your seat wondering what will happen next. 17-year old Domino Ray lives on the streets. She desperately wants wants a home of her own, and a safe place where she won't have to worry about where she gets her next meal.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
http://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/201...
May 22, 2017
Violet Grenade is definitely a psychological tale. There is the constant wonder in your head as you read it about just what caused Domino to have this very violent person living inside of her. The one that she doesn't want to let out no matter what, because his answer to all things is violence, not caring who gets hurt, or rather enjoying when others get hurt. Domino's life has been a hard one, and it is with that past that she is able to do her best to find her way through the new world she finds in Madam Karina's Home for girls, or entertainers as she calls them. These girls are all pretty much in cliques already, and you have to wonder just how long some of them have been there, and if they'll ever get the chance to move along the ranks to become a Violet like the top girl.
I liked the friend Poppet that Domino made at the house, and how realistic their friendship seemed to be. I loved the crazy lady who was part of this new world when she brought things in for the girls in the house to shop for. This isn't my favorite book by Scott, but it was definitely a story that can stand up among similar Teen types of stories. However, I'd have liked a little more look into who/why the voice/person inside of Domino's head was who he was. Also, possibly a little more back story to the Sheriff and some of the other characters in the town. As well as what exactly happened to one of the groups of girls in the story, that I won't name here as to not spoil the story.
I liked the friend Poppet that Domino made at the house, and how realistic their friendship seemed to be. I loved the crazy lady who was part of this new world when she brought things in for the girls in the house to shop for. This isn't my favorite book by Scott, but it was definitely a story that can stand up among similar Teen types of stories. However, I'd have liked a little more look into who/why the voice/person inside of Domino's head was who he was. Also, possibly a little more back story to the Sheriff and some of the other characters in the town. As well as what exactly happened to one of the groups of girls in the story, that I won't name here as to not spoil the story.
April 14, 2017
I found 'Violet Grenade' to be very confusing, there is a lot of stuff in here, and I'm not sure if meshing them all together was overall successful. I really love Scott's 'Fire & Flood' but this book didn't have any of the same engaging characters and fast-paced plot. In fact, I thought the relationship dynamic between Domino and Cain was very similar to that YA I was read five years ago, books written by Becca Fitzpatrick, Lauren Kate, and Katie McGarry. It's very misguided girl meets bad boy, and that's really not a mix I care to read about anymore.
If you still like those authors then give this book a shot, because it's probably right up your street, but it was a no from me.
If you still like those authors then give this book a shot, because it's probably right up your street, but it was a no from me.
February 23, 2017
Violet Grenade is probably one of the best books that are coming out this year. It's a contemporary psychological thriller with an original idea behind it, compelling characters (most important of them all is Domino who is a kickass heroine, she was easy to connect to), an awesome story, and great writing on top of all. I had a hard time putting it down, I was too intrigued and needed to see what happened next.
February 6, 2017
“Violet Grenade” is the unique story of Domino, a young runaway who lives in abandoned houses in Detroit with her friend (and crush) Dizzy. Domino spends a lot of time hiding herself from the world, covering in wigs and thick makeup- and also trying to stay away from Wilson. Domino has dissociative identity disorder, due to traumatic experiences when she was younger, and Wilson is the personality that allows her to separate herself from those memories. Domino and Dizzy are out decorating a wall with spraypaint art when the police catch up to them and arrest Dizzy- Domino escapes. Not sure what to do without him and worrying that Dizzy’s claustrophobia will trouble him, Domino goes to the jail to try to pay his bail with all the money she has.
She quickly learns that it is not enough. Soon, she receives an offer from an enchanting woman, Madam Karina, to work at her home for artistic types and make money. Not seeing another option, Domino takes the job to make money to pay for Dizzy’s bail and get him out of jail. The job takes her to West Texas, where Madam Karina rules not only the house but also the small town surrounding. Madam Karina runs her house with levels, starting at carnations and rising to violets, the highest level below the “Top Girl.” At each level, you get to keep more of your profits. At each level, the interaction with customers changes. Domino soon has a new goal- to reach the top and be able to afford a home for herself- and the people for whom she is beginning to care.
The description of the home and the girls was really fascinating. Karina was also an interesting character, as she is desperate, manipulative, and commanding- she runs the house with some sense of love but mostly of possession of the girls but also demands their “love” (mainly loyalty/admiration) in return. She is also running a business and making profits off both clients and the girls. During this time, Domino is forced to confront her past, as the situations she is put in resemble some of her buried past and call for Wilson’s aid. She is threatened not only by Karina, but also the other girls and sometimes clients. She finds allies in Poppet, another carnation who is possibly one of the sweetest girls ever, and in Cain, the brooding young man with a secret past who works at the house.
This book is intense and never lets you breathe- I found myself unable to stop and am still thinking about it. The main characters are extremely well developed and complex- and the last 20% of the book was an incredible finale that would not let you go! It is, at the same time, somewhat surreal (the whole house situation in particular) and very real (particularly some of the characters). As a heads up, there are situations of sexual violence in the book- as well as physical violence and torture. This is not a light read, by any means; it’s emotional and incredibly intense.
Overall, I think it’s extremely well written and will be enjoyed by fans of Scott’s Fire and Flood series- it has a similar thriller feel though this one is more of a (really intense) psychological thriller. Please note that I received an ARC from the publisher through netgalley. All opinions are my own.
She quickly learns that it is not enough. Soon, she receives an offer from an enchanting woman, Madam Karina, to work at her home for artistic types and make money. Not seeing another option, Domino takes the job to make money to pay for Dizzy’s bail and get him out of jail. The job takes her to West Texas, where Madam Karina rules not only the house but also the small town surrounding. Madam Karina runs her house with levels, starting at carnations and rising to violets, the highest level below the “Top Girl.” At each level, you get to keep more of your profits. At each level, the interaction with customers changes. Domino soon has a new goal- to reach the top and be able to afford a home for herself- and the people for whom she is beginning to care.
The description of the home and the girls was really fascinating. Karina was also an interesting character, as she is desperate, manipulative, and commanding- she runs the house with some sense of love but mostly of possession of the girls but also demands their “love” (mainly loyalty/admiration) in return. She is also running a business and making profits off both clients and the girls. During this time, Domino is forced to confront her past, as the situations she is put in resemble some of her buried past and call for Wilson’s aid. She is threatened not only by Karina, but also the other girls and sometimes clients. She finds allies in Poppet, another carnation who is possibly one of the sweetest girls ever, and in Cain, the brooding young man with a secret past who works at the house.
This book is intense and never lets you breathe- I found myself unable to stop and am still thinking about it. The main characters are extremely well developed and complex- and the last 20% of the book was an incredible finale that would not let you go! It is, at the same time, somewhat surreal (the whole house situation in particular) and very real (particularly some of the characters). As a heads up, there are situations of sexual violence in the book- as well as physical violence and torture. This is not a light read, by any means; it’s emotional and incredibly intense.
Overall, I think it’s extremely well written and will be enjoyed by fans of Scott’s Fire and Flood series- it has a similar thriller feel though this one is more of a (really intense) psychological thriller. Please note that I received an ARC from the publisher through netgalley. All opinions are my own.
July 21, 2024
Content warning:
bullying, ableism (r-word is used), abandonment, sexual assault, drug use, fat shaming, slut shaming, child abuse, murder (happened in past), alcohol addiction, torture, kidnapping, arson, gun violence, mentions death of a loved one
Dislikes:
🁺 The pacing. This was SO slow. If the pacing were any slower, it’d be going backward. This was my only issue with this book, but because it made me not want to read (unheard of), it gets docked two stars for this alone womp womp
🁺 Skinny shaming on the very first page.
Things like this piss me off. I don’t like the implication that skinny women are somehow less valid in their femininity because they don’t have big boobs or a butt. This perpetuates harmful stereotypes about women’s bodies and reinforces the idea that their worth is tied to physical appearance. Are skinny women not “real women”? Do they need to pack on some pounds to earn their stripes? This quote suggests that unless you resemble a curvy goddess straight out of an art history textbook, you’re somehow lacking in authenticity. Kindly, you can F right off with this idea. Women come in all shapes and sizes. And guess what? They’re all real! 🤯 Thank you for coming to my TED Talk *takes a bow*
Likes:
🁺 Cain. He’s your typical quiet, tortured love interest who turns out to be playful once you get to know him. I will fall for this type of character every time.
🁺 Domino. My caring and guarded girly pop who would risk everything for those she loves.
🁺 Cain and Domino as a couple. It’s cliche, but I love when two tortured, lonely souls find each other and provide each other with security & comfort. It was heartwarming to watch them be playful and sweet with each other after all the trauma they had faced. I also love how protective he was of her and how they don’t judge each other for their rocky pasts. It was such a healthy relationship. The wholesome romance was a nice balance from the dark plot.
🁺 Poppet. The sweetest, most outgoing gal. My favorite side character for sure.
🁺 The eerie sense you get while reading. The author did a great job of building up suspense. There are so many suspicious things happening and it’s fun waiting for the shoe to drop. It had me on the edge of my seat.
🁺 The last third of the book was so good!! It was action-packed, romantic and lots of secrets were being revealed.
Dislikes:
🁺 The pacing. This was SO slow. If the pacing were any slower, it’d be going backward. This was my only issue with this book, but because it made me not want to read (unheard of), it gets docked two stars for this alone womp womp
🁺 Skinny shaming on the very first page.
“I have a little meat on my bones like a real woman.”
Things like this piss me off. I don’t like the implication that skinny women are somehow less valid in their femininity because they don’t have big boobs or a butt. This perpetuates harmful stereotypes about women’s bodies and reinforces the idea that their worth is tied to physical appearance. Are skinny women not “real women”? Do they need to pack on some pounds to earn their stripes? This quote suggests that unless you resemble a curvy goddess straight out of an art history textbook, you’re somehow lacking in authenticity. Kindly, you can F right off with this idea. Women come in all shapes and sizes. And guess what? They’re all real! 🤯 Thank you for coming to my TED Talk *takes a bow*
Likes:
🁺 Cain. He’s your typical quiet, tortured love interest who turns out to be playful once you get to know him. I will fall for this type of character every time.
🁺 Domino. My caring and guarded girly pop who would risk everything for those she loves.
🁺 Cain and Domino as a couple. It’s cliche, but I love when two tortured, lonely souls find each other and provide each other with security & comfort. It was heartwarming to watch them be playful and sweet with each other after all the trauma they had faced. I also love how protective he was of her and how they don’t judge each other for their rocky pasts. It was such a healthy relationship. The wholesome romance was a nice balance from the dark plot.
It takes every ounce of courage I have to—gently, slowly—take his heavy arm and wrap it around my body like a blanket made of steel. Several minutes pass before he moves a touch closer.
When I wake in the morning, Cain is watching me. He realizes I’ve caught him in the act and slams his lids closed.
“Creeper.”
He grins with one corner of his mouth but keeps his eyes closed.
Cain bounds on top of me, pins my wrist above my head. “Do you have any final words before I inflict punishment?”
“It wasn’t me.”
Cain laughs. “I believe it was.”
My head cranes backward as Cain tickles me, running his fingers up my sides.
“I will stay with you. As long as you want me.”
“Forever.
🁺 Poppet. The sweetest, most outgoing gal. My favorite side character for sure.
🁺 The eerie sense you get while reading. The author did a great job of building up suspense. There are so many suspicious things happening and it’s fun waiting for the shoe to drop. It had me on the edge of my seat.
🁺 The last third of the book was so good!! It was action-packed, romantic and lots of secrets were being revealed.
February 5, 2017
I received an e-ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Review can be found on *Milky Way of Books*
I was truly excited for the chance to review this book! Victoria Scott has become quite one of my favorite authors since the day I read about her "bad boy" Dante Walker. Needless to say, the first blurb of the book had caught my attention long before the cover reveal.
"Violet Grenade" is the story of Domino a runaway girl who tries to survive in the streets of Detroit, along with Dizzy, her friend. When circumstances make Domino follow the elegant and mysterious Madam Karina to a house full of "artists", Domino will soon understand that nothing is at it seems.
Not to mention her secret.
For a reason, this book and its dynamics reminded my quite much of the movie "Sucker Punch". You know, the one with the kick-ass girls and the awesome special effects? I think this book could become such a movie (if it was ever optioned).
Victoria Scott succeeded in creating a flawed, tortured character who doesn't lose her spark and sass despite her dire circumstances. Domino is resourceful, but with low self-confidence yet she makes friends, even has a love interest.
Cain? That giant of a shy boy was a nice surprise in this book! Like a Titan (pun intended!) he is strong, knows how to cook a hell of amazing eggs and bacon and he supports Domino with a quiet intensity.
While this book is a stand-alone I wouldn't mind a sequel. Or a spin-off. It is completed and quite satisfactory but, just like with Salt and Stone, I really want to read more about these characters! I enjoyed it and I recommend it as Victoria Scott knows also how to present social issues, like human trafficking.
I was truly excited for the chance to review this book! Victoria Scott has become quite one of my favorite authors since the day I read about her "bad boy" Dante Walker. Needless to say, the first blurb of the book had caught my attention long before the cover reveal.
"Violet Grenade" is the story of Domino a runaway girl who tries to survive in the streets of Detroit, along with Dizzy, her friend. When circumstances make Domino follow the elegant and mysterious Madam Karina to a house full of "artists", Domino will soon understand that nothing is at it seems.
Not to mention her secret.
For a reason, this book and its dynamics reminded my quite much of the movie "Sucker Punch". You know, the one with the kick-ass girls and the awesome special effects? I think this book could become such a movie (if it was ever optioned).
Victoria Scott succeeded in creating a flawed, tortured character who doesn't lose her spark and sass despite her dire circumstances. Domino is resourceful, but with low self-confidence yet she makes friends, even has a love interest.
Cain? That giant of a shy boy was a nice surprise in this book! Like a Titan (pun intended!) he is strong, knows how to cook a hell of amazing eggs and bacon and he supports Domino with a quiet intensity.
While this book is a stand-alone I wouldn't mind a sequel. Or a spin-off. It is completed and quite satisfactory but, just like with Salt and Stone, I really want to read more about these characters! I enjoyed it and I recommend it as Victoria Scott knows also how to present social issues, like human trafficking.
April 17, 2017
Ooooh buddy! I mean, what can I say about this awesomely awesome story without giving anything way. Seriously, Victoria Scott has written one creepy, chilling, young adult novel that will leave you on the edge of your seat right up until the last page. Sadly, everything that is awesome about this story are things that you find out within the story. So I don’t want to ruin it because you will get goosebumps and hold your breath when these moments come, and I would never ruin that moment for you. What I can say is that no one is innocent and a lot of people have blood on their hands in this story. I suppose what I can also say is that the house that Madam Karina takes Domino to is a sort of a group home for homeless girls. Unfortunately, that’s where I get tight-lipped because it’s so much more than that.
I loved how complicated the author made her characters. Like I said before, none of them seem to be angels. They all have a past, a past they’d like to keep hidden for one reason or another. However, with that being said, you can help but become complacent with them and start to care for them. Obviously, Domino also makes this same mistake time and time again and it leads to some rather dark scenes in the story. While you know where Domino is ultimately heading in the story, and what that will really mean for her, you still hold your breath in fear for her the moment that time comes. And the one thing I loved about Domino was that she’s not this perfect person, and she’s also not a bad-ass. She’s just this scared homeless girl who got picked up by a nice lady and taken to a huge house to live with other girls. I really liked the fact that no one in this story was perfect and yet I loved all of them. I liked Cane, the silent servant boy in the house who’s eyes show a darker, deadlier side, the silly girl that Domino befriends who lives in her own little happy bubble, Domino was imperfectly perfect as a heroine… or anti-heroine, and even Wilson and all his raging craziness. This was an amazing cast of people who were crazy, dangerous, and yet would lay down their life for the other.
Seriously, I really wish my review wasn’t so vague but you have to go into this completely blind to fully appreciate its awesomeness. I won’t lie, I’ve been holding onto this book for months because the synopsis just didn’t grab my attention. I thought it was going to be another fantasy type novel about a girl named Violet who’s perfect, everyone either wants to be her or date her, she has it “oh so rough” but is secretly the apple of everyone’s eye, and they all live happily every after once the love triangle is all figured out. What I got was some dark, keep you on the edge of your seat, give you goosebumps, contemporary YA that has so many twists and turns that will leave you with your mouth gaping open at one point or another. And as for who my favorite character was, hands down Wilson. That crazy guy was insane… legally insane but when he came into the room you know that it just got real and stuff is going to go down. Okay, I’m going to stop it with this vague review of how awesome this book is and I’m just going to tell you to read it.
I loved how complicated the author made her characters. Like I said before, none of them seem to be angels. They all have a past, a past they’d like to keep hidden for one reason or another. However, with that being said, you can help but become complacent with them and start to care for them. Obviously, Domino also makes this same mistake time and time again and it leads to some rather dark scenes in the story. While you know where Domino is ultimately heading in the story, and what that will really mean for her, you still hold your breath in fear for her the moment that time comes. And the one thing I loved about Domino was that she’s not this perfect person, and she’s also not a bad-ass. She’s just this scared homeless girl who got picked up by a nice lady and taken to a huge house to live with other girls. I really liked the fact that no one in this story was perfect and yet I loved all of them. I liked Cane, the silent servant boy in the house who’s eyes show a darker, deadlier side, the silly girl that Domino befriends who lives in her own little happy bubble, Domino was imperfectly perfect as a heroine… or anti-heroine, and even Wilson and all his raging craziness. This was an amazing cast of people who were crazy, dangerous, and yet would lay down their life for the other.
Seriously, I really wish my review wasn’t so vague but you have to go into this completely blind to fully appreciate its awesomeness. I won’t lie, I’ve been holding onto this book for months because the synopsis just didn’t grab my attention. I thought it was going to be another fantasy type novel about a girl named Violet who’s perfect, everyone either wants to be her or date her, she has it “oh so rough” but is secretly the apple of everyone’s eye, and they all live happily every after once the love triangle is all figured out. What I got was some dark, keep you on the edge of your seat, give you goosebumps, contemporary YA that has so many twists and turns that will leave you with your mouth gaping open at one point or another. And as for who my favorite character was, hands down Wilson. That crazy guy was insane… legally insane but when he came into the room you know that it just got real and stuff is going to go down. Okay, I’m going to stop it with this vague review of how awesome this book is and I’m just going to tell you to read it.
May 16, 2017
Everyone is weird. Some people just hide it better than others. It's true. And pretty clearly demonstrated in this book.
Domino can't face the pain from her past. She hides in plain sight with her make-up and her fun colored wigs. She's not quite real and she truly not whole. The author does a good job of demonstrating the way people compartmentalize things to deal. Clearly not stable and clearly in pain, this homeless girl tries to fit in and tries to be seen. Abandoned and betrayed, she needs to feel loved and accepted. But the one person who has been there for her the past year turns from her and she's left to make it on her own.
Enter the Madam. What a weird one she is. An adult this time that hasn't dealt with the pain in her life, who wants to be loved and accepted and goes about it in a really weird way. The whole house thing just bugged me. I'll be honest in that I was expected one thing and got another. And while that should be good, it just wasn't this time. I mean this book is weird. Nothing feels real or contemporary yet it is. And I just didn't except the amount of weirdness. I wanted it wrapped in a metaphorical bow that made it an analogy for the way the mind works. And it wasn't that at all. It's just a variation on weirdness with everyone having a healthy dose.
The writing is good. This author does have a way of crafting a story. And while it did take me a bit to grab hold, I did end up interested in the story. I really wanted to know the ending. The ending that just wasn't what I wanted. But the story itself did keep me turning the pages.
I really liked Cain. He's a sleeping giant that was kind and put up with a lot. Many of the girls in the house had me angry for their treatment of Cain. I was impressed by his loyalty to Domino and his care of her. He, too, had some compartments in his mind. He, too, has a degree of weirdness but I still liked him.
Poppet was another one I cared about. Such a loyal friend. I like Angie and her dogs. She was quirky and a little scary. As for the rest of the characters, they all get varying degrees of my hate. And there you see the emotion that this book provokes. I hate the Madam. I hate Mr. Hodge and Eric. I hate the carnations and most of the rest of the girls though they all deserve pity. They formed a middle school mentality that ran the house and created the drama is many a different forms. They all shared in the weirdness. And they also represented the varied weirdness in us all.
What I didn't care for in this book was the lack of satisfaction when I was done. There was no smile on my face when I finished. There was no relief or happiness. There was just puzzlement at the weirdness that didn't satisfactorily blend into normal. And while that in itself says something, it just isn't why I read books.
So the bottom line is that if you enjoy the weirdness of life, roll around in it and find satisfaction in it, then this book is totally for you. If you prefer your contemporary to wrap up in a bow at the end, you might want to skip this one.
Domino can't face the pain from her past. She hides in plain sight with her make-up and her fun colored wigs. She's not quite real and she truly not whole. The author does a good job of demonstrating the way people compartmentalize things to deal. Clearly not stable and clearly in pain, this homeless girl tries to fit in and tries to be seen. Abandoned and betrayed, she needs to feel loved and accepted. But the one person who has been there for her the past year turns from her and she's left to make it on her own.
Enter the Madam. What a weird one she is. An adult this time that hasn't dealt with the pain in her life, who wants to be loved and accepted and goes about it in a really weird way. The whole house thing just bugged me. I'll be honest in that I was expected one thing and got another. And while that should be good, it just wasn't this time. I mean this book is weird. Nothing feels real or contemporary yet it is. And I just didn't except the amount of weirdness. I wanted it wrapped in a metaphorical bow that made it an analogy for the way the mind works. And it wasn't that at all. It's just a variation on weirdness with everyone having a healthy dose.
The writing is good. This author does have a way of crafting a story. And while it did take me a bit to grab hold, I did end up interested in the story. I really wanted to know the ending. The ending that just wasn't what I wanted. But the story itself did keep me turning the pages.
I really liked Cain. He's a sleeping giant that was kind and put up with a lot. Many of the girls in the house had me angry for their treatment of Cain. I was impressed by his loyalty to Domino and his care of her. He, too, had some compartments in his mind. He, too, has a degree of weirdness but I still liked him.
Poppet was another one I cared about. Such a loyal friend. I like Angie and her dogs. She was quirky and a little scary. As for the rest of the characters, they all get varying degrees of my hate. And there you see the emotion that this book provokes. I hate the Madam. I hate Mr. Hodge and Eric. I hate the carnations and most of the rest of the girls though they all deserve pity. They formed a middle school mentality that ran the house and created the drama is many a different forms. They all shared in the weirdness. And they also represented the varied weirdness in us all.
What I didn't care for in this book was the lack of satisfaction when I was done. There was no smile on my face when I finished. There was no relief or happiness. There was just puzzlement at the weirdness that didn't satisfactorily blend into normal. And while that in itself says something, it just isn't why I read books.
So the bottom line is that if you enjoy the weirdness of life, roll around in it and find satisfaction in it, then this book is totally for you. If you prefer your contemporary to wrap up in a bow at the end, you might want to skip this one.
April 17, 2017
Wow. I am not sure what I was initially expecting from this book to be honest but man was I given a ride. This book is dark and filled with the dark pasts of the characters within it. It's a solid reminder that anyone can have some skeletons in our closets but it's all in how you act because of them. Domino was stronger than she gave herself credit for. She went through a lot in her life and she came out as best as she could, minus Wilson. I thought it was great to see her grow more confident in herself and in her strength while still learning that it's ok to rely on others. Cain was perfection. A guy who had some terrible experiences caught in the game of blaming yourself. I really liked getting to know him and his personality.
I honestly didn't think I would finish this book in a couple sittings. I was intrigued at first and really wanting to learn more, but by the time I was halfway through I knew that was it. I was on the edge of my seat towards the end, so much was happening. There was betrayal, horrible acts, darkness, and death. It was something to watch characters overcome such evil.
This was definitely a thriller that I can handle. Dark and disturbing in some ways, but other ways left it up to your imagination. Definitely be on the lookout for this release.
I honestly didn't think I would finish this book in a couple sittings. I was intrigued at first and really wanting to learn more, but by the time I was halfway through I knew that was it. I was on the edge of my seat towards the end, so much was happening. There was betrayal, horrible acts, darkness, and death. It was something to watch characters overcome such evil.
This was definitely a thriller that I can handle. Dark and disturbing in some ways, but other ways left it up to your imagination. Definitely be on the lookout for this release.
May 15, 2017
Explosive. Unique. Addictive.
Sometimes you pick up a book and you're not really sure what you're getting yourself into. With Violet Grenade, you may think you know what you're getting into but nothing will prepare you for the ride you're in for.
He's my person. Not that I need one.
Domino has been through A LOT of shit. Victoria Scott did not shy away from her rough past and how that leads her to Cain, Madam Karina, and Wilson. And just when you think she's had enough, Victoria pushes her further. And further. And further. Grenade doesn't even begin to describe it. This book is one of the darkest romances (and possibly darkest book) I've read. With a satisfying ending, fans of Lost Girls will enjoy this book.
Sometimes you pick up a book and you're not really sure what you're getting yourself into. With Violet Grenade, you may think you know what you're getting into but nothing will prepare you for the ride you're in for.
He's my person. Not that I need one.
Domino has been through A LOT of shit. Victoria Scott did not shy away from her rough past and how that leads her to Cain, Madam Karina, and Wilson. And just when you think she's had enough, Victoria pushes her further. And further. And further. Grenade doesn't even begin to describe it. This book is one of the darkest romances (and possibly darkest book) I've read. With a satisfying ending, fans of Lost Girls will enjoy this book.
May 30, 2017
Violet Grenade by Victoria Scott is dark, edgy, and the kind of twisty that keeps you glued to the pages.
Violet Grenade is unique and quite unlike any of Scott's previous work that I've read before, and I've read nearly all her books. With its unforgettable characterization and writing, Violet Grenade is a great choice for those looking for a new young adult psychological thriller.
The story follows Domina who is living on the streets when she receives and an offer by Madam Karina to join her house of "flowers" in a home to many such runaway girls who are then used as private entertainers.
Set in secluded West Texas, Domina finds herself fighting to the top of the ranks to gain the madam's approval. Along the way, she encounters the madam's dark secrets, deceit, and bullying in a dangerous world, one where once you enter it, you can never leave.
What they don't know about is the person living inside Domino’s mind. Madam Karina doesn’t know about Wilson.
Violet Grenade, like all Scott's novels, has such compelling characters in it with unique voices that just grab your attention.
Domino’s story slowly unfolds and as readers begin to understand her history and who Wilson is, the story becomes incredibly heartfelt and intense. Madame Karina makes a fabulous villain and there are plenty of mean girls to make you want to protect Domino. But Domino is smart and resourceful and she has the unexpected Wilson on her side.
I loved how the story was written, full of rough edges and grit, but also of unlikely friendships and even a touch of sweet romance.
At times, the story takes on an almost surreal quality, like a hazy, smoke-filled room, where we can see what is happening but it's strange and filtered. Then smack, the reader is back at Madame Karina's and we see Domino and Wilson in a whole new, kick-ass, light.
Violet Grenade is a gritty, fast-paced, twisty psychological thriller with unique characters I won't soon forget. So far it's a standalone book but these are the kind of characters you read about and can't help but hope for more.
Violet Grenade is unique and quite unlike any of Scott's previous work that I've read before, and I've read nearly all her books. With its unforgettable characterization and writing, Violet Grenade is a great choice for those looking for a new young adult psychological thriller.
The story follows Domina who is living on the streets when she receives and an offer by Madam Karina to join her house of "flowers" in a home to many such runaway girls who are then used as private entertainers.
Set in secluded West Texas, Domina finds herself fighting to the top of the ranks to gain the madam's approval. Along the way, she encounters the madam's dark secrets, deceit, and bullying in a dangerous world, one where once you enter it, you can never leave.
What they don't know about is the person living inside Domino’s mind. Madam Karina doesn’t know about Wilson.
Violet Grenade, like all Scott's novels, has such compelling characters in it with unique voices that just grab your attention.
Domino’s story slowly unfolds and as readers begin to understand her history and who Wilson is, the story becomes incredibly heartfelt and intense. Madame Karina makes a fabulous villain and there are plenty of mean girls to make you want to protect Domino. But Domino is smart and resourceful and she has the unexpected Wilson on her side.
I loved how the story was written, full of rough edges and grit, but also of unlikely friendships and even a touch of sweet romance.
At times, the story takes on an almost surreal quality, like a hazy, smoke-filled room, where we can see what is happening but it's strange and filtered. Then smack, the reader is back at Madame Karina's and we see Domino and Wilson in a whole new, kick-ass, light.
Violet Grenade is a gritty, fast-paced, twisty psychological thriller with unique characters I won't soon forget. So far it's a standalone book but these are the kind of characters you read about and can't help but hope for more.
April 27, 2017
As most of you probably already know, I ADORE Victoria Scott! I've read (almost) everything she's written, and I've loved them all!! So when I first heard about Violet Grenade, I immediately added it to my give-me-this-immediately-i-need-it-nowwwww list. Just recently I saw a video of Victoria discussing Violet Grenade, and how it was unlike anything else she's ever read. She said it was dark and twisted... and that's EXACTLY what it was!! This book was nothing at all like her other books... but I loved it just as much! In fact, this just may be my favorite one of her books to date!
Domino is living in an abandoned house with her friend. Homeless and without a job. When her friend is arrested and held on bail, Domino is desperate to get the money to free him. She runs into Madam Karina in an alleyway. Madam Karina offers her a place to live where she also has the ability to earn some income. Madam Karina acts quite interested in Domino, claims to see real promise in her, and eventually Domino decides to go with her. What other choice does she have, really.
Upon Domino's arrival to her new "home", she quickly realizes that this isn't as promising as it seems. This is a house of girls who are told to entertain men who pay to spend time with them every evening. They are instructed to entertain these men however they want to: singing, dancing, talking... you name it, these girls do it. Whatever talents they have, that's what they use. And whoever entertains the most men (and receives the most coins at the end of the night) receives the most income. They also move up in the ranks, where they receive a greater percentage of the proceeds and gain status among the other girls. Basically it all comes down to being a house filled with young girls all trying to one-up each other.
I have to say, this book is dark. Like, really, really dark. Probably the darkest YA book I've ever read. I read a lot of adult books that are dark like this, but I've never come across a YA one before that pushes the limits so much. I have to say, I really LOVED it! Though at times it did get a bit graphic for my taste, it was never over-the-top and bordered that YA line just perfectly. There's also a mental illness element that creates a certain feel for the story. You see, Domino suffered a tragic past, and because of this she has a "protector", you could call him, in her head that shields her from her horrible thoughts and memories. Wilson is his name, and Wilson doesn't let her remember what she went through, and he also protects her and takes over her mind and body when Domino is extremely upset or in a scary situation.
Another thing worth mentioning... the ending! It was amazing!! I was dying to see how this story was going to turn out, and knowing Victoria's writing, I knew it would be good... but not THAT good! It was intense, dark and dirty and even jaw-dropping. There were a few things left open, which normally bothers me... but this time, it was perfect. We are left to imagine certain things, and I really like that. (It also leaves this open for a second book, or perhaps a novella? Victoria? Please?) For those of you wondering, there was a bit of a romance as well, though it really took a backseat to the rest of the story. It was there, it was slow-burning, and it was hopeful... but it didn't take over the story.
Though these girls were, needless to say, mean, malicious, and out to torture each other, Domino was able to find one friend among the group of evil dragons, namely Poppet. I adored the friendship that these two formed. Both in a horrible situation, being humiliated, harassed and tortured on a regular basis, these two stuck together through it all.
I feel like I could go on for days talking about this book. As you can tell, I really, truly enjoyed it. Despite my dislike for darker books normally, this one immediately took my attention and never let go. I was enthralled, to say the least, and I couldn't stop reading. I think it's safe to say that this is my favorite Victoria Scott book at this point, and it just goes to prove that this talented woman can write almost ANYTHING and have it be an incredible story.
(Thanks to Entangled Teen for the review copy!)
Find this review and others like it at Lost in Literature!
Domino is living in an abandoned house with her friend. Homeless and without a job. When her friend is arrested and held on bail, Domino is desperate to get the money to free him. She runs into Madam Karina in an alleyway. Madam Karina offers her a place to live where she also has the ability to earn some income. Madam Karina acts quite interested in Domino, claims to see real promise in her, and eventually Domino decides to go with her. What other choice does she have, really.
Upon Domino's arrival to her new "home", she quickly realizes that this isn't as promising as it seems. This is a house of girls who are told to entertain men who pay to spend time with them every evening. They are instructed to entertain these men however they want to: singing, dancing, talking... you name it, these girls do it. Whatever talents they have, that's what they use. And whoever entertains the most men (and receives the most coins at the end of the night) receives the most income. They also move up in the ranks, where they receive a greater percentage of the proceeds and gain status among the other girls. Basically it all comes down to being a house filled with young girls all trying to one-up each other.
I have to say, this book is dark. Like, really, really dark. Probably the darkest YA book I've ever read. I read a lot of adult books that are dark like this, but I've never come across a YA one before that pushes the limits so much. I have to say, I really LOVED it! Though at times it did get a bit graphic for my taste, it was never over-the-top and bordered that YA line just perfectly. There's also a mental illness element that creates a certain feel for the story. You see, Domino suffered a tragic past, and because of this she has a "protector", you could call him, in her head that shields her from her horrible thoughts and memories. Wilson is his name, and Wilson doesn't let her remember what she went through, and he also protects her and takes over her mind and body when Domino is extremely upset or in a scary situation.
Another thing worth mentioning... the ending! It was amazing!! I was dying to see how this story was going to turn out, and knowing Victoria's writing, I knew it would be good... but not THAT good! It was intense, dark and dirty and even jaw-dropping. There were a few things left open, which normally bothers me... but this time, it was perfect. We are left to imagine certain things, and I really like that. (It also leaves this open for a second book, or perhaps a novella? Victoria? Please?) For those of you wondering, there was a bit of a romance as well, though it really took a backseat to the rest of the story. It was there, it was slow-burning, and it was hopeful... but it didn't take over the story.
Though these girls were, needless to say, mean, malicious, and out to torture each other, Domino was able to find one friend among the group of evil dragons, namely Poppet. I adored the friendship that these two formed. Both in a horrible situation, being humiliated, harassed and tortured on a regular basis, these two stuck together through it all.
I feel like I could go on for days talking about this book. As you can tell, I really, truly enjoyed it. Despite my dislike for darker books normally, this one immediately took my attention and never let go. I was enthralled, to say the least, and I couldn't stop reading. I think it's safe to say that this is my favorite Victoria Scott book at this point, and it just goes to prove that this talented woman can write almost ANYTHING and have it be an incredible story.
(Thanks to Entangled Teen for the review copy!)
Find this review and others like it at Lost in Literature!
February 10, 2017
I FREAKING LOVED EVERYTHING ABOUT THIS BOOK!!! (Full review to come!)
May 11, 2017
I'm still not sure what star-rating to give this. For stars? Five? I really enjoyed it. Deliciously dark and violent.
April 5, 2017
Violet Grenade is not what I was expecting at all. I received a free copy via NetGalley and Entangled Publishing. There literally seems to not have been a time when this book lets the reader relax. Domino is seventeen and has been living on the streets since she was sixteen. She is sharing a squat house with her buddy Dizzy for the last year. They look out for each other and do most things together until one night they get separated and Dizzy ends up in lockup. Domino does not have the money or even anything worth enough to pawn so that she can bail Dizzy out. When she leaves the lockup to try and find a way to bail Dizzy out she runs into Madam Karina who offers her what I think is too good to be true. But, when a person is desperate and despite having lived on the streets for a year, naïve, they will grasp on the first option offered to them. I must admit I was surprised she would get in the car with a stranger.
Domino finds herself outside of a small town in Texas where it seems that everyone knows or works for Madam Karina in some way. She starts having the stars knocked out of her eyes about the opportunity she is offered after her first paycheck. Though she makes two good friends the bulk of the other girls working for Madam Karina seem to be against her and do everything they can to ensure she doesn’t succeed because Madam Karina offers the “top girl” the one thing that Domino wants her own house as Madam Karina’s successor. Despite the negative vibe, she is starting to have about the home where most of the girls appear to worship Madam Karina, Domino, along with the elusive Wilson, starts to catch on quickly and getting out of that house is not going to be anywhere near as easy as it was getting in there.
Violet Grenade keeps the reader interested. We must know what will happen if she gets cornered. Even Dizzy appears to know it is not a good thing but, the reader is drawn into learning about Wilson throughout the book. Even when we get to the end you might still be left thinking, who in the heck is Wilson? By the end of the book you realize that despite what Wilson appears to be you literally find yourself hoping Wilson whoops everyone’s butt. I tend to steer away from books where it looks like adults might be victimizing children or teens. It is bad enough when it is an adult, but, children are more vulnerable than most adults. Some street kids are less vulnerable due to experience especially when they have someone like Dizzy and other neighborhood people looking out for them, which appeared to be the case with Domino. There were times I thought that Domino still had a bit of green on her, then later I though nah, she is wise, just slower to respond. We learn as the book goes on why this dichotomy exists and it just makes the book that more thrilling. The big question is “who in the heck is Wilson?”. I’m wishing kids that are bullied had someone a bit like Wilson that would help them stand up for themselves, not to the extreme that Wilson did, but, enough to stop the victimization that is so rampant in schools, heck in any situation where there is a group of people there seems to be someone that victimizes others, even in smaller ways. This book is a tip of the hat to standing up for yourself or maybe even for others when they need a boost! This review can also be seen at LadyTechie’s Book Musings https://ladytechiesbookmusings.blogsp....
Domino finds herself outside of a small town in Texas where it seems that everyone knows or works for Madam Karina in some way. She starts having the stars knocked out of her eyes about the opportunity she is offered after her first paycheck. Though she makes two good friends the bulk of the other girls working for Madam Karina seem to be against her and do everything they can to ensure she doesn’t succeed because Madam Karina offers the “top girl” the one thing that Domino wants her own house as Madam Karina’s successor. Despite the negative vibe, she is starting to have about the home where most of the girls appear to worship Madam Karina, Domino, along with the elusive Wilson, starts to catch on quickly and getting out of that house is not going to be anywhere near as easy as it was getting in there.
Violet Grenade keeps the reader interested. We must know what will happen if she gets cornered. Even Dizzy appears to know it is not a good thing but, the reader is drawn into learning about Wilson throughout the book. Even when we get to the end you might still be left thinking, who in the heck is Wilson? By the end of the book you realize that despite what Wilson appears to be you literally find yourself hoping Wilson whoops everyone’s butt. I tend to steer away from books where it looks like adults might be victimizing children or teens. It is bad enough when it is an adult, but, children are more vulnerable than most adults. Some street kids are less vulnerable due to experience especially when they have someone like Dizzy and other neighborhood people looking out for them, which appeared to be the case with Domino. There were times I thought that Domino still had a bit of green on her, then later I though nah, she is wise, just slower to respond. We learn as the book goes on why this dichotomy exists and it just makes the book that more thrilling. The big question is “who in the heck is Wilson?”. I’m wishing kids that are bullied had someone a bit like Wilson that would help them stand up for themselves, not to the extreme that Wilson did, but, enough to stop the victimization that is so rampant in schools, heck in any situation where there is a group of people there seems to be someone that victimizes others, even in smaller ways. This book is a tip of the hat to standing up for yourself or maybe even for others when they need a boost! This review can also be seen at LadyTechie’s Book Musings https://ladytechiesbookmusings.blogsp....
July 3, 2018
I enjoyed reading this book. It had a very unique story line & I really enjoyed it.
May 22, 2017
Domino: A runaway with blood on her hands.
Cain: A silent boy about to explode.
Madam Karina: A woman who demands obedience.
Wilson: The one who will destroy them all.
Her name is Domino Ray.
But the voice inside her head has a different name.
When Madam Karina discovers Domino in an alleyway, she offers her a position at her girls’ home in secluded West Texas. With no alternatives and an agenda of her own, Domino accepts. It isn’t long before she is fighting her way up the ranks to gain the madam’s approval…and falling for Cain, the mysterious boy living in the basement.
But the madam has horrible secrets. So do the girls in the house. So does Cain.
Escaping is harder than Domino expects, though, because the madam doesn’t like to lose inventory. But then, Madam Karina doesn’t know about the danger living inside Domino’s mind.
Madam Karina doesn’t know about Wilson.
Rating: 5/5 Penguins
Quick Reasons: darkly atmospheric; life-ruiner; heavy handed, mature topics; this read was a ticking time bomb just waiting to explode; intricate, complex characters; Domino and Cain are SO adorable, I can't even; the snark is on point
HUGE thanks to Victoria Scott, Entangled Teen, Chapter by Chapter Book Tours, and Netgalley for sending me a free digital galley of this title in exchange for an honest review! This in no way altered my read of or opinions on this book.
Next to me on a rusted towel hook, my pink wig waves hello. She's ready to go, she tells me. She can't wait to be worn like the crown she is.
I tell her to hold her damn horses because I'm washing my hair in a sink.
Okay, penguins. I have FULLY INTENDED to pick up a Victoria Scott book for, like...several years now. There are several I've had my eye on. I have one on my kindle just waiting for me to look its way. So WHY, OH WHY, did it take me so long?! I just... I honestly don't have an answer. But I'll start with this: I am so, so glad that I decided to start with THIS book. Because this book?! is a gem, and I'm not sure Victoria Scott's other books would have touched me quite so deeply as this one. I will warn you, though: there are some very heavy, mature subjects broached in this read. This is a very darkly atmospheric, bone-chilling read, so if you're all about the butterflies and unicorns and rainbows...this book might not be the best fit for you.
That being said, this penguin? absolutely ADORED the journey. It's been a while since I last picked up a book that promised darkness and angst and hushed secrets in forbidden rooms...and that's exactly what I found waiting here. Victoria Scott twisted and tore every page with emotion, and I am so blown away with how much her words wrung me out and left me bleeding. There is a loud, vibrant talent seeping through every sentence: the power to ensnare and enthrall readers. The ability to mute the real world and push the imagination to the forefront. Victoria Scott took me on a roller coaster, whirlwind journey...and I fell in love from page one.
"Most of the girls here are rotten inside. It's not their fault. It's just they let their past turn them. But you took a different approach. You built a wall on the outside to keep the inside intact."
These characters are complex and intricate. The balance of snark with sensitively handled, heavily mature subject matter was beautiful and well-done. While there are a few characters that fall to the very bottom of the "redeemable" pile in my mind, I feel as if Victoria Scott did a gorgeous job in rounding each personality fully and showing them in several altering lights--to allow readers a more completed picture of them, as individuals and as a whole. And penguins, did they leap to life for me; not only was I ensnared by the gorgeous writing, the dark atmosphere, the fast-paced and thought-provoking plot... I was also swept up by the characters. And not just one or two of them-- ALL of them.
I am just so, SO happy the first Victoria Scott novel I picked up was THIS one. Victoria Scott wrote a darkly mysterious, intriguingly painful read--and she wove the heavy subject matter so beautifully and sensitively into the journey. I definitely recommend to lovers of shady characters, questionable motivations, and atmospheric reads. I officially cannot WAIT to pick up my next Victoria Scott novel; if the writing is as gorgeous as in this book, I'm in for a real treat. This read's a ticking time bomb waiting to explode; why don't you open the cover and start the countdown, penguins? You know you want to.
April 24, 2017
I received this ARC from the publisher, via Netgalley, in exchange for a voluntary and honest review. I was in no way compensated for this review.
I’ve been a big fan of Victoria Scott ever since Dante first came onto the page! He was a fun kind of hero, who’s a bit bad and yet still lovable! Violet Grenade almost seems like it wouldn’t be my type of read, because where’s the paranormal? Where’s the fantasy? Where are the chills that thrillers so often pull from me? Well, in a way this book sort of works as a thriller in some sense, but not in the way you would usually think. All I can say is that I loved it!
Violet Grenade is a very dark kind of book, let me warn you, in case that isn’t your thing. It’s dark. Very dark. But it is still YA, so it’s not all slash and guts or anything! Domino is a runaway, she’s been on the streets for a few years now having escaped a life she longs to forget. Its past that’s too dark for her even to try to remember. Even if she wanted to, she couldn’t, because she also has Wilson living in her head. Yup, you heard right! Wilson is Domino’s protector you could say. He shields her from all the bad things that happen so she doesn’t have to remember them all and he was also there when she had to live through them, but that comes about later on.
When Domino’s friend is arrested, she’s determined to pay his bail, but how’s a homeless girl without a high school diploma supposed to get a job. Those required background checks and social security numbers and since Domino ran away, she doesn’t want to be found again. Then in walks Madam Karina. An older woman with flare. She sees potential in Domino and offers her a job at her house, in her establishment. She would be able to make money and help out her friend. Domino is very artistically talented and it’s what drew Madam Karina’s eye to begin with. Seeing no other option, Domino agrees.
Here is where things start to get a little bit darker. Madam Karina runs a particular house. I wouldn’t call it one for prostitutes, though it’s pretty close. Here is a house filled with young women, girls like Domino, who entertain their customers in whatever way possible. With jokes, music, art, you name it. There’s a structure of hierarchy involved and Domino is bottom rung, but she soon will climb to the top. She will make the money she needs to help her friend and to help herself. What she wants most is a home of her own. But she’s soon going to learn that things aren’t always what they appear to be.
This book was dark. I don’t know if I’ve ever read a book that had this level of darkness. I’m not saying that it’s a bad thing either. I really enjoyed this book! I loved Domino’s character and how she was brave even without Wilson. She knows that her alter ego has a dark side and does terrible things. She tries to fight him on taking control even when she’s suffering at the hands of others who have no care for her being. The things that these girls did to Domino, that they would do to each other, is kind of sick. But I get it, despite all that. I just can’t believe that they would actually have camaraderie with one another when it seems everyone wants to become Top Girl.
I really liked the fact that despite the evil that was nearly all the girls, Domino is able to make friends with one, Poppet. Yeah, there are no ordinary names in this one, and I honestly liked that too! Poppet is sort of the simple girl, yet she’s the only one who shares a lick of kindness to Domino and is very genuine. Then there’s Cain, he works at the house too, but more as a serving boy instead of entertainer. He too has a dark past and it seems only warranted that he and Domino are drawn to one another. The romance was very subtle and hardly there, which I felt like was the right move for this particular story. Besides it makes those few small moments even more powerful.
The ending to this one was absolutely freaking perfect! I loved how explosive it was! And though the very end leaves a few things left unsaid, you can pretty much imagine what might happen next in those areas. While I would’ve loved to know what truly happens, I feel fine with the way things ended here. Violet Grenade is truly one of a kind! It’s one of the most exciting reads I’ve read this year and is sure to end up on my favorites list for the year too! This is one read you won’t want to miss!
Overall Rating 5/5 stars
Violet Grenade releases May 16, 2017
I’ve been a big fan of Victoria Scott ever since Dante first came onto the page! He was a fun kind of hero, who’s a bit bad and yet still lovable! Violet Grenade almost seems like it wouldn’t be my type of read, because where’s the paranormal? Where’s the fantasy? Where are the chills that thrillers so often pull from me? Well, in a way this book sort of works as a thriller in some sense, but not in the way you would usually think. All I can say is that I loved it!
Violet Grenade is a very dark kind of book, let me warn you, in case that isn’t your thing. It’s dark. Very dark. But it is still YA, so it’s not all slash and guts or anything! Domino is a runaway, she’s been on the streets for a few years now having escaped a life she longs to forget. Its past that’s too dark for her even to try to remember. Even if she wanted to, she couldn’t, because she also has Wilson living in her head. Yup, you heard right! Wilson is Domino’s protector you could say. He shields her from all the bad things that happen so she doesn’t have to remember them all and he was also there when she had to live through them, but that comes about later on.
When Domino’s friend is arrested, she’s determined to pay his bail, but how’s a homeless girl without a high school diploma supposed to get a job. Those required background checks and social security numbers and since Domino ran away, she doesn’t want to be found again. Then in walks Madam Karina. An older woman with flare. She sees potential in Domino and offers her a job at her house, in her establishment. She would be able to make money and help out her friend. Domino is very artistically talented and it’s what drew Madam Karina’s eye to begin with. Seeing no other option, Domino agrees.
Here is where things start to get a little bit darker. Madam Karina runs a particular house. I wouldn’t call it one for prostitutes, though it’s pretty close. Here is a house filled with young women, girls like Domino, who entertain their customers in whatever way possible. With jokes, music, art, you name it. There’s a structure of hierarchy involved and Domino is bottom rung, but she soon will climb to the top. She will make the money she needs to help her friend and to help herself. What she wants most is a home of her own. But she’s soon going to learn that things aren’t always what they appear to be.
This book was dark. I don’t know if I’ve ever read a book that had this level of darkness. I’m not saying that it’s a bad thing either. I really enjoyed this book! I loved Domino’s character and how she was brave even without Wilson. She knows that her alter ego has a dark side and does terrible things. She tries to fight him on taking control even when she’s suffering at the hands of others who have no care for her being. The things that these girls did to Domino, that they would do to each other, is kind of sick. But I get it, despite all that. I just can’t believe that they would actually have camaraderie with one another when it seems everyone wants to become Top Girl.
I really liked the fact that despite the evil that was nearly all the girls, Domino is able to make friends with one, Poppet. Yeah, there are no ordinary names in this one, and I honestly liked that too! Poppet is sort of the simple girl, yet she’s the only one who shares a lick of kindness to Domino and is very genuine. Then there’s Cain, he works at the house too, but more as a serving boy instead of entertainer. He too has a dark past and it seems only warranted that he and Domino are drawn to one another. The romance was very subtle and hardly there, which I felt like was the right move for this particular story. Besides it makes those few small moments even more powerful.
The ending to this one was absolutely freaking perfect! I loved how explosive it was! And though the very end leaves a few things left unsaid, you can pretty much imagine what might happen next in those areas. While I would’ve loved to know what truly happens, I feel fine with the way things ended here. Violet Grenade is truly one of a kind! It’s one of the most exciting reads I’ve read this year and is sure to end up on my favorites list for the year too! This is one read you won’t want to miss!
Overall Rating 5/5 stars
Violet Grenade releases May 16, 2017
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