Victim: A Novel by Andrew Boryga

In "Victim," Javier Perez, a Bronx hustler from a lineage of hustlers, learns to leverage his background for personal gain. Through embellishments and fabrications, he secures a full scholarship to a prestigious university, setting his sights on a career as a renowned writer. Despite his success, Javi's only tether to his past is occasional correspondence with Gio, his childhood friend immersed in gang activity and incarcerated.

As Javi ascends in the literary world, his embellished life story becomes his calling card. His narrative, tailored to meet the demands of virtue signaling and tear-jerking trauma plots, earns him acclaim and recognition at a legendary magazine. However, Gio, who intimately knows Javi's true background, sees through his facades.

When Gio is released from prison and Javi extends an offer to involve him in his fabricated narrative, tensions rise. As Javi's past and present collide, he confronts the consequences of his deceitful storytelling and questions the authenticity of his success.

"Victim" serves as a biting satire that scrutinizes identity politics and the commodification of personal narratives for personal gain. Through Javi's journey, the novel challenges the notion of diversity and prompts readers to reflect on the lengths individuals will go to manipulate narratives to align with societal expectations.

With the sharp wit reminiscent of Paul Beatty, "Victim" delves into themes of authenticity, privilege, and the pursuit of success. It navigates the fine line between bending the truth and outright lies, leaving readers questioning the authenticity of the stories we consume and the motivations behind them. ❤️📚❤️