Review: Rage by Jackie Morse Kessler

Rage (Horsemen of the Apocalypse Book 2) by Jackie Morse Kessler

Net Galley book - publication date: 4/4/11

Amazon Product Description:
Missy didn’t mean to cut so deep. But after the party where she was humiliated in front of practically everyone in school, who could blame her for wanting some comfort? Sure, most people don’t find comfort in the touch of a razor blade, but Missy always was . . . different.

That’s why she was chosen to become one of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse: War. Now Missy wields a new kind of blade—a big, brutal sword that can cut down anyone and anything in her path. But it’s with this weapon in her hand that Missy learns something that could help her triumph over her own pain: control.

A unique approach to the topic of self-mutilation, Rage is the story of a young woman who discovers her own power and refuses to be defeated by the world.

My thoughts:
This story is powerful, compelling, and terrifying.  From the first sentence which is shocking to the end - where I found myself in tears - I couldn't put this one down! This is a tale of sorrow and sadness, suffering, struggle and pain.  It is also a story of acceptance and triumph, forgiveness, love, and the power of belief in yourself.  


Again, as with the first book, I am impressed.  The story is well written.  The topic is tragic, compelling, and way too real in today's society.   As with Hunger, I think that Jackie Morse Kessler has captured a subject that is more common than anyone wants to admit, many people fear, most deny, and all are challenged in dealing with.  She has made her story thoughtful, insightful, encouraging, realistic, and respectful to anyone who may come in contact with the issue of self-injury/self-mutilating.  She lends an understanding that I would never have achieved without reading this book. I feel that it is a must read for teens and adults alike. I would recommend it to anyone.


Be sure to read Hunger (Horsemen of the Apocalypse Book 1) by Jackie Morse Kessler before you read Rage.  They are both amazing stand alones, but there are references in Rage that will mean more if you have already read Hunger.  Read my review of Hunger here.