cw: rape, misogynistic slurs

Asking For It has the makings of an excellent book. O'Neill's attempts to unpack rape culture are admirable and have a lot of potential, but they are undermined by some seriously poor writing, particularly in the first half. (Think "bedside lockers on either side of the bed." Her editor did her dirty with that one.) O'Neill spends the first few chapters overloading us with unnecessary information (a bevy of characters who are introduced then promptly forgotten, needless use of brand names when referring to objects, unsubtle and excessive plot exposition, etc.). It reads like fanfiction. I realise the narrator is a teenager and maybe O'Neill tries to write in a way that reflects what she thinks is important to an 18-year-old girl, but I think defending her writing in that way is a bit generous.

The second half is tedious, which could be a useful device if better executed. To her credit, O'Neill starts to show rather than tell, but sabotages this improvement with excessive anaphora and diacope. Another Goodreads reviewer said that she never wants to hear the phrase "pink flesh" again. Throw in "slut, liar, skank, bitch, whore" and I'd be even gladder. Emma's repetitive internal monologue interrupts several powerful, heartbreaking moments that if left to speak for themselves would be much more effective.

Still, I encourage people to read Asking For It. O'Neill's message, though diluted by questionable writing, remains confronting and compelling. If this book were cut down and neatened up, it could be utterly brilliant. I really wish it had been.