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Harley Quinn: Reckoning

Book 7 in the series:DC Icons

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Harley Quinn: Reckoning by Rachael Allen is a gripping young adult novel that delves into the origin story of Harley Quinn. The book follows Harleen Quinzel, a high school student who becomes a vigilante named Harley Quinn after facing sexism and forming a group called the Reckoning. As the group seeks revenge and uncovers sinister truths, Harleen transforms from victim to aggressor, ultimately becoming the iconic character of Harley Quinn. The narrative is filled with clever plot twists, references to familiar characters like Poison Ivy and the Joker, and explores themes of feminism, revenge, and mystery.

The writing style of Harley Quinn: Reckoning is praised for its first-person point of view that immerses the reader in Harley's world. Readers appreciate the author's ability to capture Harley's essence, making them feel connected to the character. The book is described as unputdownable, with a well-paced plot that keeps readers engaged until the final twist. Additionally, the inclusion of real-life incidents of sexual harassment adds depth to the story, while the portrayal of Harley's complex relationship with her father resonates with readers.

Characters:

Characters are depicted with depth, exploring themes of feminism and diversity, with Harley exemplifying strength and complexity amid her chaotic journey.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is energetic and chaotic, mimicking Harley Quinn's character while delivering an engaging narrative that keeps readers invested.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot features a fresh origin story for Harley Quinn, blending themes of feminism and mystery as Harleen Quinzel navigates issues of sexism in STEM, culminating in her journey towards becoming a notorious figure.

Setting:

The setting involves Gotham University, emphasizing a college atmosphere where themes of sexism and ambition are prevalent, particularly within STEM.

Pacing:

The pacing is dynamic, with short chapters and suspenseful endings that create a compelling reading experience, balancing dual timelines effectively.

Notes:

The book offers an original take on Harley Quinn's origin story.
It's part of the DC Icons series that explores origins of DC characters for young adults.
The narrative features dual timelines: a flash-forward and flashbacks.
Harley Quinn Reckoning dives into Harley's bisexuality and includes LGBTQIA themes.
Harley becomes involved in a vigilante group called the Reckoning to fight against sexism.
The story includes clever plot twists that keep the mystery engaging.
The author draws from her own experiences in STEM to portray sexism in academia.
Harleen's relationship with her abusive father is explored in depth.
The book contains trigger warnings for domestic abuse and unwanted sexual advances.
Chapters are short with suspenseful endings, making it a fast read despite being 464 pages long.
The story features humor and nods to Harley's chaotic personality through her first-person narration.
Harley Quinn's character is depicted in a nuanced and complex way throughout the story.
The book references other familiar characters from the DC universe, like the Joker and Poison Ivy.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include themes of domestic abuse and unwanted sexual advances, necessitating caution for sensitive readers.

Has Romance?

Romance is present in the form of Harley's bisexuality and her relationship with her love interest, contributing to character development.

From The Publisher:

In this new launch of a trilogy within the DC Icons universe, experience the origin story of a Super-Villain. This is the Harley Quinn backstory fans have been waiting for.

"Allen's Harley is a fierce, righteous, brilliant, and preternaturally brave ball of chaos. I loved and feared every single minute with her." -Dahlia Adler, author of Cool for the Summer

When Harleen Quinzel scores an internship in a psych lab at Gotham University, she's more than ecstatic; she's desperate to make a Big Scientific Discovery that will land her a full-ride college scholarship and get her away from her abusive father. But when Harleen witnesses the way women are treated across STEM departments-and experiences harassment herself-she decides that revenge and justice are more important than her own dreams.

Harleen finds her place in an intoxicating vigilante girl gang called the Reckoning, who creates chaos to inspire change. And when Harleen falls for another girl in the gang, it finally seems like she's found her true passions. But what starts off as pranks and mischief quickly turns deadly as one of the gang members is found murdered-and a terrifying conspiracy is uncovered that puts the life Harleen has worked so hard for at stake. Will she choose her future-or will she choose revenge?

In this refreshingly feminist spin on the story of our favorite villainess, Harley Quinn: Reckoning traces Harleen's journey from precocious, revenge-obsessed teenage girl to a hardcore justice-seeker on her way to becoming the most captivating Super Villain of all time. This is one story that you won't be able to put down.

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