Vicious by V.E. Schwab: A Book Recommendation

Vicious by V. E. Schwab

Victor and Eli used to be college roommates who shared a complex relationship. Both brilliant and arrogant, they admired each other’s ambition and intelligence while also harboring feelings of kinship and hate.

In their final year of college, they delved into the study of adrenaline, near-death experiences, and the supernatural. Their research led them to a fascinating discovery: certain conditions could grant individuals extraordinary abilities. Intrigued, they decided to test their theory and enhance themselves. However, their plans did not unfold quite as expected.

Ten years later, Victor escapes from prison with the single-minded goal of tracking down his former friend-turned-enemy and killing him. His prison pal joins him out of loyalty. Along the way, he finds an unlikely ally in a young girl with astonishing powers.

Meanwhile, Eli is on his own mission to eradicate all super-powered individuals (except himself and his sidekick, a woman with an unyielding will).

Both archenemies possess formidable powers and are driven by memories of betrayal and loss, as well as false righteousness. As they embark on a path of revenge, there’s no telling who will survive in the end.

Plenty of humans were monstrous, and plenty of monsters knew how to play at being human.
V.E. Schwab, Vicious

If you’re giving Vicious as a gift, here are a few things to consider:

The vibes are dark, tense, mysterious, and angry with a fast pace.

It’s the perfect book for anyone who wants a new take on the superhero/villain origin story trope. Also great for people who love dogs!

Permission to judge a book by its cover!

Vicious, which is part of V.E. Schwab’s “Villains” series, comes in both red as well as black and white. I like both versions so much, especially in these photos by @lostinbookworld, @natalia_puchalska88, and @zeilendrache. So moody!