Book Review: My Fault (Culpable, 1) by Mercedes Ron
As a reader, I often find myself gravitating toward stories that encapsulate raw emotion and the tumultuous journey of young love. My Fault, the first book in Mercedes Ron’s Culpable trilogy, immediately sparked my interest with its tantalizing promise of forbidden romance and complex characters. The fact that it has gained traction on BookTok and has now been adapted into a movie only added to my anticipation. Little did I know, I was about to embark on a whirlwind ride filled with high-speed thrills, emotional turmoil, and simmering tension.
The story follows seventeen-year-old Noah Morgan, whose fairly ordinary life in Toronto is turned upside down when her mother returns from a cruise married to a billionaire and they move to the dazzling world of L.A. Instantly, Noah finds herself entrenched in a realm of street races, extravagant parties, and her insufferable new stepbrother, Nicholas. Nick is the archetypal bad boy—aloof, dangerously attractive, and unapologetically reckless. While their attraction sizzles with undeniable chemistry, it’s wrapped in a tantalizing web of emotional scars and trauma that makes their connection all the more compelling.
Noah’s character resonated with me profoundly. She’s tough yet vulnerable, carrying the weight of her past while trying to navigate her feelings for someone who embodies everything she fears. The dual perspective is a powerful narrative choice, providing insight into both Noah and Nick’s internal struggles and motivations. Their push-and-pull dynamic kept me glued to the pages, longing for them to break down their walls only to build them back up again.
Ron’s writing style oscillates between poetic moments and raw authenticity. There were instances where the dialogue felt a bit cliché—like when Nick’s kindness surprises Noah each time—but these moments somehow amplify the intensity of their forbidden love narrative. Quotes like, “I just hated not having you to myself,” echo the relatable yearning many feel in tumultuous relationships. It’s this blend of relatable and over-the-top drama that makes My Fault such an addicting read.
However, I must mention that this book isn’t for the faint of heart. The themes of emotional manipulation and unhealthy dynamics can be jarring, making it a bit problematic at times. Many reviews highlighted these issues, yet they also reflected the book’s essence: it’s messy, chaotic, and embodies the exhilarating highs and lows of teenage love. If you’re someone who revels in flawed characters and the “we shouldn’t, but we can’t stop” trope, this book may just take you on a rollercoaster ride worth experiencing.
In conclusion, My Fault is a brilliantly chaotic blend of romance and angst, perfect for readers willing to dive into the tempest of youthful passion. While it’s a far cry from polished literary work, it resonates with those looking for heart-pounding excitement and emotional depth. If you’ve enjoyed books like Ugly Love or stories steeped in the bittersweet pangs of first love, I wholeheartedly recommend giving this one a read. After all, sometimes stories are about the journey, not just the destination—and what a captivating journey this one is!
So grab your favorite cozy blanket, settle in, and prepare to binge-read this enchanting, chaotic tale that just might leave you yearning for more.