Rage: A Love Story

Intense and raw. ( )

I kind of hated this book. On the positive side, it's queer and the writing style isn't bad.

But... if a main character is wrong, they need to figure it out for themselves. Other characters can't tell them that they're wrong for half the book and then turn out to be right. I think this is a common problem when old people try to try to write books for young people, at least when there's an intentional message and it's not just an adventure story. The stuff I've read by Sarah Dessen annoys the heck out of me for the same reason. ( )

I adore Julie Anne Peters and I am thankful that she writes the books she does. When I was in high school the GLBT books were few and far between, and most of them just dealt with coming out. Peters goes beyond the coming out process (which is vital, of course) and tackles topics such as having a brother who is transgendered (Luna), being kicked out of your home because you're a lesbian (Keeping You a Secret), and intimate partner abuse (Rage). Rage gives a very open and honest look into Johanna's psyche as she rationalizes the actions of her abusive girlfriend.
At the end of the book there is a list of resources for victims of violence, both general and LGBT-specific.

I couldn't put it down, it was exciting, ravishing, enthusiastic. The perfect book about family issues and how they can bleed into your personal life. I honestly enjoyed it and recommened it to many of my friends. I ( )

This book is about a lesbian girl who falls for this deeply troubled and dangerous girl in her school. You can't let the pretty pink book and the words "love story" deceive you though. This book is all about abusive relationships and giving yourself up for the sake of a relationship. Every one in the book plays dual roles as victims and abusers. Johanna abuses Novak, her best friend. Reeve abuses Johanna. Robbie is abused by Reeve and their family. Reeve is also abused by her family. This novel is important for gay and straight people alike to read. It sheds a new light on the possible turmoil of abuse and abusive relationships. It's definitely recommended for anyone who is interested in reading about abusive teen relationships. ( )