This Savage Song

In a divided city where violence breeds literal monsters, August Flynn and Kate Harker exist on opposite sides of a fragile peace. August is a monster who wants to be human, while Kate is a human who has learned to be monstrous - both are heirs to the leaders of their respective territories. The story follows these two teenagers as circumstances force them to work together, challenging everything they've been taught about their world and each other. Their city V-City stands divided between those who pay for protection and those who must survive the supernatural consequences of violence. The monsters that stalk V-City come in three distinct breeds: the Corsai, the Malchai, and the rare Sunai. Each type emerges from different acts of violence and possesses unique abilities and limitations that shape the city's precarious balance of power. This urban fantasy explores themes of humanity, identity, and the true nature of monstrosity - questioning whether it's our origins or our choices that define who we are. The novel examines how violence shapes both individuals and society, while challenging conventional distinctions between good and evil.

Readers highlight Schwab's worldbuilding and the unique take on monsters being created from violent acts. The platonic relationship between Kate and August stands out to many as a refreshing departure from typical YA romance. Positive reviews focus on: - Dark, gritty atmosphere - Complex character development - Musical elements woven into the story - Exploration of morality and humanity Common criticisms: - Slow pacing in the first half - Plot predictability - Limited world explanation - Some found Kate's character unlikeable Average Ratings: Goodreads: 4.0/5 (79,000+ ratings) Amazon: 4.4/5 (800+ reviews) BookBrowse: 4/5 One reader noted: "The premise of violence breeding literal monsters is brilliant and terrifying." Another commented: "The pacing killed it for me - took 150 pages to get moving." Barnes & Noble reviewers particularly praised the audiobook narration, with a 4.5/5 average from 200+ listeners.

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Strange the Dreamer by Laini Taylor A librarian uncovers the truth about a lost city where humans and godlike beings clash in a conflict that blurs the lines between heroes and monsters.

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🎵 Despite being a book heavily focused on music and melody, Victoria Schwab doesn't play any musical instruments herself. 🌃 The city of Verity was partially inspired by Detroit, Michigan, particularly its unique divide between affluent and struggling neighborhoods. 🔪 The novel's monsters were created as a direct response to acts of violence, reflecting the author's belief that violence breeds violence in the real world. 📚 The book was written during a particularly difficult time in Schwab's life, and she has said that August Flynn's character was a way for her to explore her own struggles with darkness and light. 🎭 The idea for the story came from the author wondering what would happen if violent acts left a physical mark on the world, creating actual monsters instead of just metaphorical ones.