I want to start my review by saying that the prologue absolutely gripped me, and I was ready to buckle up, sure that this was going to be a wild ride, and in many ways, it was!

I thought the plot and the concept of ‘The Violence’ was a unique, fresh, and downright disturbing take on a global pandemic. Even now, after finishing the book weeks ago, I still shudder at the thought of something like this actually happening - folks seeing red (or really, nothing at all) and attacking anything/anyone in their path until their craving for absolute destruction is satisfied. Unlike many other readers, I wasn’t super bothered by the pandemic talk. Did certain parts feel like Deja Vu and creep me out? Yes. But this is the reality that we’ll have to deal with moving forward now in literature/media, so I’m trying to get used to it.

As for the characters, I really liked both Ella and Brooklyn. Their sisterhood was precious, and I was rooting for both of them, especially Ella, every step of the way. I was more so invested in her storyline than anyone else’s. Chelsea was likable enough, and I did empathize with her. As for Chelsea’s mother? I have nothing kind to say, so I just won’t, lol. 

Regarding the pacing, I did feel like this story was too long, IMO. Especially in the second half of the book, I found myself getting taken out of the story, specifically when the Violence Fighting Ring plot took center stage. I think it got a bit too unserious/silly for me.

Final Thoughts: I’m torn on this book; while I do appreciate the author writing this from the heart, providing commentary on domestic violence, how unfair this world/system is, especially when it comes to women not being believed, the patriarchy, etc. I just think that there was too much going on at the end of the day for me. I also wish there could’ve been more of a focus (or an equal balance) on The Violence part/the horror surrounding it.