The Female of the Species by: Mindy McGinnis

Genre: Young Adult Fiction, Contemporary
Published: September 20, 2016 by: Katherine Tegan Books
Pages: 352
Rating: 5/5 stars

Alex Craft isn't understandable by most people. Ever since her sister's death, Alex has unleashed violent energy against anyone who wrongs her. She knows how to kill. When Alex is finally noticed by Jack, the popular jock in her small hometown, she begins to feel love for the first time. Even the preacher's daughter Peekay connects with Alex, and shows her the world of friendship that Alex has never been in before. But when a party turns ugly, Alex once more unleashes her wrath upon the senior class, and it will take Peekay and Jack to bring her back to reality, but Alex cannot be tamed.

This book was so interesting and odd and yet I was so into it! It's one of those things you have to read to believe, and you're not really sure if it's a contemporary or a thriller or even something supernatural??? This book tells the story of injustice. Of rape culture, feminism, and revenge. While Alex's actions may be a bit extreme, her core values bring a strong message to light.

I loved how Alex was sort of an anti-hero in a way. She was a good person, there's no doubt, but there was something dark about her that was only unleashed when it needed to be. I loved how mysterious she was and how you're kind of unsure about her until the end. Then, everything pieces into place.

This plot was one big thrill ride!! There were twists and turns and I came up with a whole lot of theories as the book went on. The climax was UNREAL and kept me wanting to read more and more until I had finished. This book could not be put down and I read it all in one day.

This book brings a new way to tackle rape culture. Usually these contemporary novels are very straight-forward and sad, but this had the ability to weave thrill and mystery into there while still remaining sensitive to the topic. It was so brilliantly done as well!!

Overall, you gotta read this. This book tackles a hard issue but without making it appear too graphic and upsetting. The book gets real about the topic, but takes a different direction in delivering it that was so unique and a lot easier to read for me.

Have you read The Female of the Species? What did you think?

Emily @ Paperback Princess