One-line Summary:

In the dystopian world of “This Savage Song,” two teenagers from rival families must join forces to save their city from the darkness that threatens to consume it.

The City Divided: Monsters and Humans

In the city of Verity, violence breeds monsters. After a catastrophic event known as the Phenomenon, the city is divided into two factions: the North City, ruled by Callum Harker, and the South City, protected by Henry Flynn. The monsters that roam the streets are born from acts of violence, each with their own unique abilities and desires. The city is a dark and dangerous place, where the line between human and monster is blurred.

August Flynn: A Monster with a Conscience

August Flynn, the son of Henry Flynn, is a monster with a conscience. He longs to be human, to feel emotions and experience the world in the same way humans do. Despite his monstrous nature, August strives to protect the innocent and resist his violent instincts. He hides his true identity from the world, attending school and trying to fit in with the human students. August’s internal struggle between his monstrous side and his desire for humanity is a central theme in the story.

Kate Harker: A Girl Seeking Her Father’s Approval

Kate Harker, the daughter of Callum Harker, is a fierce and determined young woman. She wants nothing more than to prove herself to her father and take her place as the ruler of the North City. Kate is willing to do whatever it takes to gain her father’s approval, even if it means embracing her own darkness. However, as the story unfolds, Kate begins to question her father’s methods and the true nature of the monsters that plague their city.

A Dangerous Alliance

When Kate and August’s paths cross, they form a dangerous alliance. Despite their initial distrust and animosity towards each other, they realize that they must work together to save their city from the growing darkness. As they navigate the treacherous streets of Verity, they encounter various monsters and face life-threatening challenges. Their journey tests their beliefs, forces them to confront their own demons, and ultimately brings them closer together.

Key Takeaways:

• The line between good and evil is not always clear-cut; it can be blurred and subjective.
• Violence has consequences and can give birth to darkness.
• True strength lies in embracing one’s flaws and finding the courage to change.

“Monsters, monsters, big and small, they’re gonna come and eat you all.” – Victoria Schwab, This Savage Song

In “This Savage Song,” Victoria Schwab crafts a dark and compelling tale of a divided city and the unlikely alliance between two teenagers. The book explores themes of identity, morality, and the power of choice. Through the characters of August and Kate, Schwab challenges the notion of what it means to be a monster and a human, blurring the lines between good and evil. The story is filled with action, suspense, and emotional depth, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.

Key takeaways from the book include the idea that the line between good and evil is not always clear-cut, and that violence can have far-reaching consequences. Schwab also emphasizes the importance of embracing one’s flaws and finding the strength to change. The memorable quote, “Monsters, monsters, big and small, they’re gonna come and eat you all,” serves as a chilling reminder of the darkness that lurks within the city of Verity.

Overall, “This Savage Song” is a gripping and thought-provoking read that will leave readers questioning their own perceptions of good and evil. Schwab’s masterful storytelling and complex characters make this book a must-read for fans of dystopian fiction and dark fantasy.