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A review by jay_da_bookworm
Their Vicious Games by Joelle Wellington
challenging
dark
funny
reflective
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.75
Their Vicious Game was a fantastic read—I was immediately hooked and flew through this book. The storytelling was well-paced and engaging; there was never a moment where I found myself wondering, “Why is this important?” because everything seamlessly circled back to the game and Adina’s role within it.
What made the story even more captivating was watching Adina navigate the rules of the game by her own means. It was fascinating to see how she managed to twist the expectations of the Remingtons, refusing to play exactly by their rules, while still staying within the framework of their dangerous competition. Her persistence and clever strategies felt like a quiet rebellion, slowly turning the tide in her favor. By the time she beat the Remingtons at their own game, it was incredibly satisfying—a moment of triumph that highlighted her resilience and intelligence.
Beyond the game, this book offered an original and thought-provoking exploration of how women—and more specifically Black women—are pressured to conform to societal norms in order to be accepted. It underscores how those norms can erode a person’s sense of self, pushing them to the point where they no longer recognize who they are. Adina’s journey through the game mirrors the struggle many women face in real life, making her victory all the more impactful.
What made the story even more captivating was watching Adina navigate the rules of the game by her own means. It was fascinating to see how she managed to twist the expectations of the Remingtons, refusing to play exactly by their rules, while still staying within the framework of their dangerous competition. Her persistence and clever strategies felt like a quiet rebellion, slowly turning the tide in her favor. By the time she beat the Remingtons at their own game, it was incredibly satisfying—a moment of triumph that highlighted her resilience and intelligence.
Beyond the game, this book offered an original and thought-provoking exploration of how women—and more specifically Black women—are pressured to conform to societal norms in order to be accepted. It underscores how those norms can erode a person’s sense of self, pushing them to the point where they no longer recognize who they are. Adina’s journey through the game mirrors the struggle many women face in real life, making her victory all the more impactful.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Bullying, Cursing, Death, and Blood
Moderate: Gun violence, Misogyny, Violence, Murder, and Classism
Minor: Drug use and Alcohol