The style and subject matter in Vicious inevitably lends itself to comic book comparisons. Dark, beautiful and featuring an alternative reality where extraordinary abilities are real, such comparisons are apt and hopefully the very talented V.E. Schwab sees it that way. In Vicious, Schwab developed the same style and tone that you get from a really good comic still. Beautifully rendered, the text actually feels visual. Schwab pulls the reader directly into the story and it stays with you long after the book is back on the shelf.
Victor and Eli were roommates at college. They were lonely, strange and brilliant, and together they began to theorize about how a person develops extraordinary abilities. As their research into adrenaline, and near-death experiences becomes less theoretical and more experimental, both Eli and Victor develop powers that turn their friendship into an epic antagonism.
