Agnes at the End of the World

Agnes at the End of the World was an absolutely riveting read. Why is it that cults and potential world-ending viruses go so well together? This is at least the third book I\’ve read with those elements and I enjoyed it. I couldn\’t read it fast enough. Agnes is the kind of character who\’s easy to root for. She\’s doing what she feels is the right thing, yet still trying to remain true to her faith. It\’s not an easy journey for her, but what an incredible journey it was! There were a few things that irritated me, and a couple…revelations, I guess you could call them, that were kinda baffling. I wish I could explain my issues in more detail, but to do so would be some major spoilers. Despite those issues, it was still a very captivating read that held my full attention. Kelly McWilliams is an author I\’ll definitely be watching for more from.

This book was somehow simultaneously exactly what I expected and not at all what I expected. The story follows sisters, Agnes & Beth, who are part of a religious cult that practices polygamy, strict patriarchal laws & living a non-secular lifestyle. It begins with Agnes in rebellion because shes meeting with an Outsider in order to get insulin for her diabetic brother & things build & spiral from there. I read this book because I thought the premise was intriguing (besides the cult aspect, theres a pandemic going on) & also the author is mixed-race. I enjoyed it immensely – the writing is phenomenal (especially in part 1, wow), the characters are great (I have a soft spot for Beth & Cory), & the themes made me think. I have Thoughts about the ending, but Im also more spiritual than religious so Im curious to see how other readers interpret it! Recommend after reading: The Good Luck Girls for the post-apocalyptic vibes & feminism & The Hallowed Ones for the religious cult & supernatural

Agnes resides within a cult at Red Creek but she doesnt realize that shes part of a cult. Shes the eldest of several siblings and is responsible for taking care of their family because their mother is severely depressed. Agnes sneaks to the Outside once a month to retrieve insulin for her younger brother Ezekiel, even though she knows its against the rules. Her sister Beth, the next eldest sibling, is a rebel and doesnt like the rules. When Beth is caught kissing a boy, shes disgraced by their father and the community. Agnes has been betrothed as a sixth wife to a middle-aged man and before she gets married, she has to teach Beth everything so she can then become the family caretaker. The middle-aged man decides to marry Beth instead of Agnes to straighten Beth out. In the meantime, a ferocious virus is spreading throughout the world and eventually arrives at Red Creek. The Prophet releases an infected dog during a church meeting and, after a few people are bitten, he tells them about his revelation; the Rapture has arrived and everyone must move into the underground bunker. Agnes escapes with Ezekiel and is heartbroken that shes left the rest of her siblings behind. She knows that the bunker would be a death sentence for Ezekiel because theres no insulin for him. This is a riveting story about cults, self-worth, self-importance, bravery, love, loyalty, and sacrifice. The authors note explains the cult background information being from a nonfiction book of a survivor who escaped a true cult. A wonderfully written and all-encompassing story about love, sacrifice, and different faiths, 5 stars!

I went into this book with zero expectations and left entranced by McWilliams exquisite writing. The story is told in third person and switches between the sisters\’ POV, which adds depth to the intricately woven plot. The story continuously moves forward and keeps the reader guessing. There were scenes that left my heart pounding, and others that left it broken. McWilliamss characters left a lasting impression. At times, I wanted to yell at Beth or give Agnes a hug. The side characters added to the emotional connection I felt to the duo while reading. The dialogue and pacing flowed effortlessly. I appreciate books with meaningful takeaways, and this one had plenty of life lessons. If you are looking for a standalone novel with a strong female lead whos willing to risk everything for her family, then check out Agnes at The End of the World. Readers: Excellent for readers who love standalone stories of survival, powerful female leads, heart-racing scenes, and creepy imagery. Writers: Excellent for writers who are looking to elevate their craft. Pacing, a variety of sentence structures, believable dialogue, and escapism factor are strong suits of author McWilliams. Warnings/Triggers: minor adult language, disturbing imagery, heavy religious references Grading Scale: Plot: 5/5 Pacing: 5/5 Escapism Factor: 4/5 Emotional Connection: 5/5 Character Development: 5/5

I absolutely was absorbed by the amount of originality throughout the story which was full of strength of character and courage to step up for your family and rising to the call for the greater good. Agnes was an individual that resonates beyond the pages because of the realism of her character. She begins her journey starts with tentative steps but, by the end, Agnes comes to her own through her faith in something better and valor to face the dark spaces in the world and fill them with light.

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