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The Raging Quiet

4.2 of 5 stars 4.20 · rating details · 1,842 ratings · 200 reviews

Marnie comes to the remote fishing hamlet of Torcurra as the reluctant bride of Isake Isherwood, a lord of her parents' farm. But two days later, while thatching the roof, Isake falls to his death. Marnie's only kindness comes from Father Brannan, the village priest, and Raver, the strange mad boy whose incoherent cries belie his gentle heart. Taking him in one windy night...more

Hardcover, 266 pages

Published May 1st 1999 by Simon & Schuster

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Catherine, Called Birdy by Karen Cushman

The Midwife's Apprentice by Karen Cushman

Daughter of the Forest by Juliet Marillier

YA Medieval historical fiction

8th out of 128 books — 82 voters

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Aug 31, 2011 Lora rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: lib-read, g-ya-hist, favorites, want-to-reread, summer-reads, quality-ya-fic

It isn't often that I begin writing a review with trepidation and insecurities, thinking that my thoughts and feelings can't possibly do the book justice. This isn't because I have a great esteem for myself; no, it is because, while a lot of what I read I enjoy, I'm not fooling myself into thinking that the majority of it is what most would consider quality literature. It is with those kinds of books that I figure that whatever I type should suffice. But there are those times, like when I review...more It isn't often that I begin writing a review with trepidation and insecurities, thinking that my thoughts and feelings can't possibly do the book justice. This isn't because I have a great esteem for myself; no, it is because, while a lot of what I read I enjoy, I'm not fooling myself into thinking that the majority of it is what most would consider quality literature. It is with those kinds of books that I figure that whatever I type should suffice. But there are those times, like when I reviewed Emma and Jellicoe Road not so long ago, that I get nervous. This is another of those times.

I've always had a fascination with books and things set in this era. And I won't lie — that had a large influence in me loving this book. This is the kind of book that I can slip into like a warm fleece on a cold winter's night and feel cozy and comforted in. But I think most would agree that there is something special about this diamond in the rough.

The Raging Quiet is a true hidden gem. It snared my attention from the first chapter and surpassed any level of expectations I could've had going in. The characters are so rich and real and believable in their pain and love and loss and joy that I know I shall never forget them. I wept for Marnie, I was grateful for the priest's charity and kindness to two lost souls, and the boy without the blessing of sound stole my heart.

The subject of religion is handled perfectly IMO; it doesn't preach to non-believers, nor does it offend believers. Marnie is religious, but she has her struggles with God because of the terrible things she goes through in such a short time. The priest that helps Marnie and Raven isn't portrayed as a saint, but merely a spiritually faithful man with faults. And there isn't any explicit content, but the author doesn't refrain from dealing with tough subjects, either.

Sadly, this book doesn't seem to be receiving much recognition around these parts. But it is twelve years old and, although to me it is simple yet beautiful and fits the story perfectly, the cover is no longer in vogue; it is not flashy and bedazzled enough to catch the eye of most readers in today's market. It is my hope that I can bring this book at least a small portion of the attention it deserves.(less)

38 likes · like · see review

Mar 30, 2012 Emily May rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: historical-fiction, ya-na, 2012

4.5
I never imagined I would enjoy this as much as I did. This book has been on my mental TBR list long before I even had a goodreads account, basically because it seems that everyone who reads it recommends it to me and yet it's taken me so long to get around to it. I would guess The Raging Quiet struggles to find an audience when historical fiction is not a very popular YA genre to start with, and the ones that are feature corsets and affairs - like an 18th century Gossip Girl. Just to note, technically this is also a fantasy novel because Torcurra is fictional, but apart from place names there's no reason why this couldn't be regular historical fiction.

One of the first things I noticed and loved about this novel was the setting. It's a very cold, dark, pastoral and gothically beautiful place. It reminded me a lot of Wuthering Heights with that sense of isolation and wilderness, I loved how completely imaginable it was without even having to be big on the descriptions.

The tale is about two outsiders - Marnie and Raven - and how they come to develop an understanding of one another. Marnie arrives in Tocurra with her new and much older husband who she has married to save her family from poverty and who also tells her she will "learn to like it" after he more or less rapes her. Raven is the village madman - believed so because he is actually deaf - and the locals attempt to whip the demons out of him. Marnie first comes under suspicion of foul play when her husband falls to his death, a suspicion that only grows when her and Raven develop a sign language to communicate by. And trust me, this isn't the time or place to be suspected of witchcraft.

This is a novel that will tear up your heart and send your emotions into overdrive. It's horrifying to read some of the things done to young women who were accused of being witches, this book may be labelled "fantasy", but the rituals are entirely real. It's frustrating too, so many times I wanted to yell at the unfairness of it all - imagine an infected wound being a symbol that God is marking your guilt of witchiness!

But, in the end, this is also a very sweet and touching novel about two people who don't fit in finding their own little world together, their own way of living that suits them both, others be damned. I was moved by it and I think it will be hard to find a reader who isn't.
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Jun 07, 2012 Reynje rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: books-to-be-hugged, historical-fiction, read-2012, young-adult

The Raging Quiet is without doubt a Rey-The-Teen-Years book. Which is not to say it is not a Rey-Now book, (it is), but this is the sort of novel I would have adored without reservation in high school. As a teenager that read almost exclusively classics and historical literature of any kind, and possibly had somewhat overly romantic ideas about life, I would have been completely enamoured with Jordan’s sweeping story of love triumphing over evil.

The deliberate ambiguity of the setting and time p...more The Raging Quiet is without doubt a Rey-The-Teen-Years book. Which is not to say it is not a Rey-Now book, (it is), but this is the sort of novel I would have adored without reservation in high school. As a teenager that read almost exclusively classics and historical literature of any kind, and possibly had somewhat overly romantic ideas about life, I would have been completely enamoured with Jordan’s sweeping story of love triumphing over evil.

The deliberate ambiguity of the setting and time period in which The Raging Quiet takes place allows the story to straddle a line between historical fiction and fantasy, and frees it from some of the rigidity a straight historical fiction novel would demand. Jordan has created a world that borrows heavily from our own past and is told in a traditional style, yet allows the plot to unfold in a manner that resonates with its contemporary audience.

While The Raging Quiet could be classified as a romance, its central themes are prejudice and injustice –the hate bred from fear and ignorance, fostered by close-mindedness. In the small, withdrawn community of Torcurra, difference is perceived as an evil, and those who do not fit neatly within its social norms are shunned or outright abused. The characters of Marnie and Raver/n are distrusted by the villagers, though for different reasons. Marnie for her rumoured complicity in her husband’s death, and Raven for his (unrealised) deafness and subsequent inability to communicate or conduct himself in a manner they deem acceptable. But for the local priest, Father Brannan, Marnie and Raven find themselves ostracised from society, living in almost complete isolation.

Jordan walks a fine line here by creating main characters that are almost uniformly sympathetic amid a cast of narrow-minded fear-mongers. Even Father Brannan’s eventual willingness to bend his moral principles somewhat where they concern Marnie’s choices seems dangerously close to making him more of an idealised concept than a flawed and realistic character. However, Jordan manages to sidestep the problem of too much polarity and too little dimension amid her cast of characters by imbuing her protagonists with the emotional and physical scars of their pasts. These are two characters who desperately deserve a measure of happiness, having suffered so much at the hands an unjust society.

Where Jordan really excels as a storyteller is in her crafting of the relationship that develops between Raven and Marnie. While their closeness grows as a by-product of their ability to communicate with each other, there’s also something to be said for the capacity to empathise that seems inherent in both of them. This mutual affinity, a deep understanding of each other’s pain, is the tie that really binds Marnie and Raven together.

The progression of this relationship is handled delicately, and Jordan does not overlook the obstacles that stand in their way, not just in the form of societal opposition, but their own doubts and fears. This is particularly so in the case of Marnie, a young woman who suffered emotionally and sexually during her short marriage. The role of intimacy based on trust and respect is beautifully explored, the scenes between Marnie and Raven all the more poignant for their healing, profound nature.

Interestingly, while the novel is deliberately vague on its time and location particulars, Jordan bases her portrayal of witch trials and rituals on historical fact. These are among the most powerful scenes in the book, such cruelty levied against a young woman simply for being different.

Despite the message-based content of The Raging Quiet, it is not a didactic or overtly moralising novel. Rather, Jordan has written a compelling story that speaks eloquently about the effects of prejudice, the transformative power of empathy, and the simple, human need to be heard.
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Aug 28, 2011 Tatiana rated it 4 of 5 stars Recommends it for: fans of "Daughter of the Forest"

Shelves: ala-ya-2000, 2011, historical, ya

The Raging Quiet is a teen-oriented mix of The Scarlet Letter, Tess of the D'Urbervilles and The Crucible. A story of a woman who dares to be different and has to be punished for it.

Marnie has had it coming. First, she marries a wealthy older man (who cares if she does it only to save her family from poverty) and moves with him into his decrepit and allegedly cursed house in a seaside village populated by ignorant bigots. When Marnie's husband suddenly and accidentally dies, all attention focuse...more

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Mar 05, 2013 Ivy rated it 5 of 5 stars Recommends it for: Lovers of romance, lovers of Scarlet Letter type books

Shelves: young-adult, five-star-hall-of-fame, favorite-books

What a beautiful book! I thank my goodreads pals for recommending this gem of a book which takes place a very long time ago, when people believed in witchcraft and faeries.

Marnie is a young woman of sixteen years who is forced into marriage with an older man to save her family from certain poverty when her father is struck down by illness and can no longer perform his duties as overseer on their lord's estate.

Luke Isherwood, Marnie's husband, is one of the lord's sons and his inheritance is an o...more

7 likes · like · see review

Nov 07, 2011 Jillian -always aspiring- rated it 5 of 5 stars Recommends it for: Anyone who enjoys finding and reading hidden gems in young adult literature

Recommended to Jillian -always aspiring- by: Lora

Shelves: recommended-to-me, titles-i-love, 2011-reads, writing-to-which-i-aspire, ultimate-favorites, heroines-i-love-and-or-admire, heroes-i-love-and-respect, best-couples, best-characters, best-endings, couldn-t-stop-reading-it, stories-with-a-message, stories-that-challenge-me, soared-above-and-beyond, made-me-cry, wowed-me, thought-provoking, prose-envy, wish-i-could-write-a-book-like-this, wish-i-had-read-it-earlier, reviewed

After I finished The Raging Quiet, a part of my heart wept for this sad truth: many wonderful young adult books are going out of print and being overshadowed by books with shiny, flashy covers and dime-a-dozen plots and characters. Imagine fifty or a hundred years from now: will the "classic" books for young adults be some paranormal insta!love angst fests that (sadly) have the large audiences (and large print runs) in the here and now? What will happen to these hidden gems that sadly go out of...more After I finished The Raging Quiet, a part of my heart wept for this sad truth: many wonderful young adult books are going out of print and being overshadowed by books with shiny, flashy covers and dime-a-dozen plots and characters. Imagine fifty or a hundred years from now: will the "classic" books for young adults be some paranormal insta!love angst fests that (sadly) have the large audiences (and large print runs) in the here and now? What will happen to these hidden gems that sadly go out of print before their time? Will they be left to collect dust in libraries, sold off at used book stores, and forgotten as we continue to plough our way into an all-digital age? When people look back (if they look back at all), will this era of booming young adult literature merely be categorized by the easy sells and the cheap plots? If so, what a sad, sad thing that is to me.

In a way, The Raging Quiet left me with many of the same feelings I had upon finishing Keturah and Lord Death (another hidden gem which is sadly out of print) and many of Melina Marchetta's books (particularly her fantasy offerings). All the stories mentioned show realistic shades of suffering, pain, longing, redemption, and love -- but The Raging Quiet felt even more resonant, given that I could almost imagine such a tale occurring long, long ago.

Marnie Isherwood has not been dealt the kindest blows in life: she finds herself married to a much older man after her father's health declines and her family's well-being is threatened by jealousy and lies. Though at first she thinks her husband a kind and honorable man, she quickly learns that he is far from the man she had thought him to be. Now nestled in a cottage by a cove, just outside the small town of Torcurra, Marnie feels more alone and hopeless than ever. But there are glimmers of hope in two people she meets: a kindly priest and a mad boy believed to be possessed by demons.

The Raging Quiet is a thoughtful book, the kind that comes along rarely and catches you off-guard with its sincerity in showing both the joys and pains of life. The novel is one-part morality play, one-part coming-of-age journey, and one-part love story. Though all those elements on their own are not noteworthy or unique by any means, together they wield surprising weight in making this tale -- of prejudices and punishments, bonds and brokenness, realizations and rejoicing -- an unforgettable read.

Undeniably, however, what really makes this novel pull at the heartstrings is the cast of characters, namely Marnie and the "mad boy" (who comes to be known as Raven). It's amazing and heartwarming to read how the two characters grow into both themselves and their friendship over the course of the story -- and how their companionship is often what saves them when they are in threat of losing themselves to darker thoughts and actions. That kind of character growth and depth isn't found often, so I relished every page I had with these two characters.

Needless to say, The Raging Quiet is a book I wholeheartedly recommend for its great heart and meaning. Even if historical fiction isn't your fancy, I can guarantee that there is at least something you can glean from reading this book. Just think: odds are that you'll likely enjoy it as much as, if not more than, the commercial young adult books out there on shelves now. Do yourself the favor and consider it, for you may find yourself surprised in the end.

(My thanks go out to Lora, without whom I would never have even known about this book. I owe you a great book recommendation, darling, for steering me towards this wonderful gem of a novel!)(less)

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Jul 02, 2010 kari rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition Recommends it for: older teens and adults

Shelves: 2009, ya, 5-star

I think this book was "moon-good beautiful." The characters grabbed me from the first page and kept my interest all the way through. I thought they were well-developed and grew in lots of great ways during the course of the story. I couldn't read it fast enough, wanting to know what happened next.
The characters of Raven and Marnie, both injured in different ways from the world they live in, each struggling to make a life, are people you want to see succeed. All the various threads are pulled tog...more

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May 19, 2011 Peep (Pop! Pop!) rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: read-in-2011, really-liked, totally-loved, wishlist, addicted-to-ya

4.5 stars! Just so we're clear, I had NO idea what this book was about. I didn't read the synopsis, I didn't read reviews, nothing. I think part of that is why I liked the book so much. I came in with a clean slate, not knowing anything (other than I didn't like the cover), and I really believe it was a bonus. Everything was new and a surprise. I personally think the synopsis gives away a lot. Especially the jacket flap, if you get the hardcover version DO NOT read the flap, it practically tells...more 4.5 stars! Just so we're clear, I had NO idea what this book was about. I didn't read the synopsis, I didn't read reviews, nothing. I think part of that is why I liked the book so much. I came in with a clean slate, not knowing anything (other than I didn't like the cover), and I really believe it was a bonus. Everything was new and a surprise. I personally think the synopsis gives away a lot. Especially the jacket flap, if you get the hardcover version DO NOT read the flap, it practically tells the whole story!

So again, I loved it. It was so good I stayed up all night to finish it. But then hubby asked if I was ever going to go to sleep so I had to finish the rest in the morning. The book is about accepting differences. Well, not really. Maybe.

The townspeople were funny and scary at the same time. Funny because they loved the gossip and a bit scary because of their reactions to the new people.

I really liked the main characters in the story. Marnie, is very likable. I wanted to scream at the people to just listen to her. Sheesh already! Oh man, at times I felt so bad for her. She just wanted to do her own thing and just live life and it seemed like people would only look for fault and what "the neighbors were thinking". One of her thoughts: "Was there no limit to their dreadful stupidity?". I was thinking the same thing!

And Raven, sigh. I wanted to hug him. He was so endearing. I loved his interactions with Marnie and Father Brannan. Just seeing him progress was enough for me to wish the book was twice as long. He was so sweet and innocent!

I loved how Father Brannan was there for everyone. I shudder to think what would have happened if he weren't around. Plus, the banter between him and Marnie was hilarious at times.

So do I recommend this one? Yes! It's fun and sweet and at the end I wanted to cry happy tears. One of the best and sweetest romances I've read. You'll find yourself rooting the "good guys" and for Raven (I know I was). Better for older teens because there are a few adult situations.

Why?
Because I want you to be happy.
I'll be happy if I can see your face. That is all I want.
One day my face will get old and ugly.
It's ugly now...

Ah, so romantic!!
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Jul 24, 2011 Cassi aka Snow White Haggard rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Recommended to Cassi aka Snow White by: Catie

Shelves: ya, read-in-2011

The Raging Quiet is a book I never would have read. The cover is juvenile at best, cheesy at worst. It's a romance and I'm a tomboy. Yes sometimes I have girly moments (Archer Cross, Peeta Mellark, I'm looking at you) but I didn't think I could read a straight-up romance. My friends on goodreads told me to read this book. They said it was a romance, but it wasn't that type of romance.

They were right.

The Raging Quiet is not like the romances I've avoided. The characters are well developed and the...more

5 likes · like · see review

Nov 20, 2011 Glaiza rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: young-adult, ya-historical-fiction, favourites

It's been so long since I've just sat down and stayed glued to a book until I reached the last page. One of the best friendships I've read in a book. The characters are what really hook you into this story. The setting is also vivid and atmospheric - evoking serious prosy envy. Recommended to anyone seeking really good YA.

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Nov 22, 2008 Faith rated it 2 of 5 stars

This book was written in 1999, but the story is really sort of a indefinite historical fiction. The time period is sometime during the 1700's, but the exact location is not given. All we know is that it is set in a small village by the sea.

The Raging Quiet would be a great historical peace for the classroom. Elements like persecution, potential demonic possession, and a witch trail are both exciting and fairly accurate historically. This novel would also give students to opportunity to interact...more

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Nov 28, 2012 jo mo rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition Recommends it for: fans of foxmask, plain kate, the near witch

Shelves: mute-deaf-or-blind, historic, witches, recommended, all-time-faves, 2012, 5-stars, abuse, adoptee-or-orphan, call-me-crazy, crushworthy-boys, dramarama, dual-or-multiple-povs, outsider-underdog-pariah, tearjerker, tugging-at-your-heartstrings, tough-heroine, aussie-nz-author, 2012-faves, read-in-german

this book is everything i wanted by these ten bones by clare b dunkle to be and then some!

book pairings:
plain kate by erin bow
foxmask by juliet marillier
the near witch victoria schwab
wuthering heights by emily bronte (view spoiler)

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Oct 04, 2011 Kat rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here.

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Apr 06, 2011 Emma rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 4-stars, ireland, historical-fiction, young-adult

I'm astonished to see this book classified as "fantasy" by so many people--I read quite a bit of fantasy and historical fiction, and this belongs solidly in the second category. There's no magic here--well, the story is about two young people who create a sign language and fall in love, which is magical in its own way, but nothing that couldn't happen in our world. And although Jordan claims in the afterward that there's something mythological about this tale because she didn't specify the histo...more I'm astonished to see this book classified as "fantasy" by so many people--I read quite a bit of fantasy and historical fiction, and this belongs solidly in the second category. There's no magic here--well, the story is about two young people who create a sign language and fall in love, which is magical in its own way, but nothing that couldn't happen in our world. And although Jordan claims in the afterward that there's something mythological about this tale because she didn't specify the historical setting, it's obvious from the characters' names, the social structure and customs, and the landscape that the book is set in medieval Ireland (more or less; the "mythological" comment may be intended to cover a few minor deviations, and to give the author free rein with geography). I wonder if people are confused because some of the author's other books are actual fantasy?

At any rate, The Raging Quiet is a beautiful story set in a realistic medieval world. The good-hearted but naive Marnie moves to an unwelcoming coastal village with her new husband, only for him to die shortly thereafter. The only people who will have anything to do with her are the kindly, liberal priest, Father Brannan, and the village madman, Raven, who turns out to be not crazy but deaf. Marnie decides to learn to communicate with Raven, and things go from there; the plot is interesting throughout, although a couple of Marnie's choices seem a bit senseless. The characters are three-dimensional if a bit advanced for their medieval setting, which is beautifully depicted. There is a fair bit of nastiness in this book--and a plot twist or two I didn't expect in a young adult novel--but Jordan resists the temptation to create lots of one-dimensional nasty characters, portraying them instead in shades of gray. It's obvious from the writing that she has some familiarity with both deaf people and the Middle Ages, and the romance will appeal to anyone who likes a good love story. I do agree with the reviewers who have commented that the book sets Marnie on too much of a pedestal, though; she's a sympathetic character, and given what she goes through it makes sense for Father Brannan to encourage her, but his praise and indulgence are a little much.

This book may be labeled "young adult," but there is plenty for older readers to enjoy as well. Still, the label seems to have upset a few people when they found that sex is present (although anything but graphic--and while trying to avoid spoilers, I would argue that the sex that occurs is entirely appropriate and necessary in context), so keep that in mind if looking for a book for a small child. For the rest of us, I highly recommend this one. (less)

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May 15, 2010 Grace rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: historical-fiction

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. Awww, that was such a sweet ending! After starting this book on such a dark note, one that made me depressed even thinking about getting married, it slowly got better. Rarely do books start darkly then get brighter.

My only problem was Raven and Marnie's relationship. Normally I root for certain couples, but this one seemed more like friends then anything more and... the whole marriage thing... that was frustrating. I honestly don't think they should've - right, this is going into spoiler territo...more

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Apr 19, 2013 Cydnie rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: historical-fiction

I can't remember where I heard about this book, but I know I was on a long hold list at the library! It was a quick read, mostly because I had a hard time putting it down - I wanted to see what would happen next. And, I was in need of "brain candy" after my last intense read.

Things I liked:
1- Well written characters
2- A strong-willed teenaged female lead. She knows her mind and stays
true to what she believes.
3- The setting is in a time past, but no specific date or place is
given, leaving it u...more

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Feb 16, 2013 Lora rated it 2 of 5 stars · review of another edition

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. Well, this was one of those times when I encouraged my daughter to read a book before it went thru the mommy-o-prover. I asked her how it was, and she evaded repeatedly with "Oh...I don't know..." so then I grew a bit anxious and read the book myself.
Oops!
This was not the sort of stuff I would have given her to read. The reviews looked to be of high standard, even the cover was beautifully done. And honestly, for an older teen, for some older teens, this would work. But my kid is 12. The first c...more Well, this was one of those times when I encouraged my daughter to read a book before it went thru the mommy-o-prover. I asked her how it was, and she evaded repeatedly with "Oh...I don't know..." so then I grew a bit anxious and read the book myself.
Oops!
This was not the sort of stuff I would have given her to read. The reviews looked to be of high standard, even the cover was beautifully done. And honestly, for an older teen, for some older teens, this would work. But my kid is 12. The first chapter has the 15 yr old girl married off to a man twice her age, to save the rest of her family, and the second chapter has him forcing his young new bride thru their honeymoon.
Nearly every chapter had sexual themes in it. The scenes of actual sexual contact are clear, but I will say they are at least not gloating over young teen sex objects. They are making a point, which if you follow the story thru, is an over all good point. See, the girl becomes a widow and swears off marriage (and sex) because it has been a horrible experience for her. Then she meets someone new, and they at first live together (in various stages of the meaning), and, by the end, marry. He is a good and kind man, a perfect friend and love for her. She finds happiness and in marriage,no less.
So it was a bit much for my youngster, but we had some really close and good discussions because of this, so I won't even quite say that reading the book was a complete mistake. When we learn from our mistakes, then they are simply another kind of active learning in this life.
Now as for the book:
The main characters were well done, and I cared for them. Even as I found the book did not meet my standards, neither did it offend me. It actually was fairly well done for the themes it handled. There is clear sex, clear violence, and perhaps the most painful part, clear cardboard cutout villagers of superstition and hate. That part kinda got to me. The pastor of the village was the most complex character I have encountered in a long while. Actually, several of the characters were complex, but he was the best.
So, overall, this book is not one I would recommend. But it wasn't an offensive book, either, all things considered. Heck, "Twilight" was far more offensive on more levels than this one ever could be.(less)

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Jul 16, 2011 Abigail Yow rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: books-from-my-personal-library, personal-favs-novels, novels, all-time-favourites, awesome-heroines, swoon-worthy-heroes

With no prior knowledge of what the book was about, I bought it, thinking that the cover was beautiful. And I was thankful I did because the story was just as beautiful and haunting.

The raging quiet, while the timeline is not clearly mentioned in the book, is obviously set in the medieval times. The story starts out when a comely young girl, Marnie, marries an older man and moved to a village called Torcurra. There, she meets Raven who is said to be mad and possessed by the devil. The denizens o...more

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Aug 04, 2011 Heather rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Read this one in year 6, primary school. Is a book that has always stayed in my head and have read it a number of times since too. Having thought about it, the content may be a bit disturbing for young children now, but it is still a good read. I think it has stayed with me for so long as it has many points which you can relate to in one way or another. Recommended.

update: This book is about the struggle of a young boy who is deaf. A young woman is brought to the village as a wife/slave of a ri...more

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Jun 11, 2012 Bg rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: wishlist, favorites

Wow! I started reading this book and I just couldn't put it down. I can't believe it got through it so fast. This is the best book I've read all summer. All read, in fact! When I first saw the cover of this book, I thought it was nice and the title was fantastic, and the description of the book sounded interested.

Marnie is a sixteen year old uneducated girl who marries a significantly older man to save her family from poverty after her father is suddenly struck with a stroke. Her husband Sir Is...more Wow! I started reading this book and I just couldn't put it down. I can't believe it got through it so fast. This is the best book I've read all summer. All read, in fact! When I first saw the cover of this book, I thought it was nice and the title was fantastic, and the description of the book sounded interested.

Marnie is a sixteen year old uneducated girl who marries a significantly older man to save her family from poverty after her father is suddenly struck with a stroke. Her husband Sir Isherwood is extremely fond of drinking and makes Marnie's wedding night a complete nightmare. So horrible, in fact, that Marnie prays that her husband will stop wanting her. On the third day of their marriage, she finds her husband after falling through his own roof while fixing it. Overwhelmed with grief Marnie runs to the town priest confession her supposed sin and is overhead by the towns people who think she is a witch. Which is just one of her struggles.

She also meets a young man who every calls Raver, a madman, but his madness is only deaf and the frustration that no one can understand him. Marnie and Raven quickly befriend each other and Marnie teaches him, what they call, hand-words.

As the story progresses Marnie is watched over my the town Prist and Raven who is extremely sweet to her. The book reminded me of several books I've read in the past that I absolutely love and would highly recommend if you loved this book as much as I did. Marnie not only has to endure the sneer of the towns people thinking she is a witch, but she actually has to go through a real wife trial and the grief of trying to under stand Raven who so wants to be understood.

This really is a loving story of acceptance. The romance that develops in the story is just so beautiful. Yup, that's right, beautiful and tender and caring. The relationships in Marnie's life really does set the tone for this amazing story. I've love to have it in my collections.

Book I'd recommend like this:

By these Ten bones - Clare b. Dunkle

Zel - Donna Jo Napoli

Song of the Magdalene -Donna Jo Napoli

The Telling Pool - David Clement-Davis
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Oct 04, 2010 Heather added it · review of another edition

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here.

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Feb 22, 2013 Petty Witter rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Not just my favourite read so far this year but positively one of the most thought provoking and beautiful stories that I have ever read.

A tale of what it is to be different, superstition, bigotry and ignorance, The Raging Quiet is a tender and moving story of friendship, love and determination that, whilst set in a time when 'witch' was an accusation thrown at anyone deemed to be other than the norm, is still as relevant today as it ever was.

A wonderfully memorising and beautifully descriptive...more

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Aug 28, 2011 Monica! rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: cant-review-must-reread, you-go-girl, ten-year-old-me-says-squee, a-damn-dim-candle, what-is-this-feeling

An absolutely fantastic book that EVERYONE should read -- with a rape scene you might want to warn readers about, before handing it over. Marnie is brilliant, Raven is beautiful, and... my God, I can't even review this adequately because every time I think of the book I find myself needing to reread it. It's like a disease. A disease of awesome young adult historical fiction.

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Jul 23, 2011 Stephanie Davies rated it 2 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I was utterly disappointed with this book and don't even want it in my collection anymore (despite the pretty cover). I intend to give it away. It's a shame-- because I am such a fan of Sheryl Jordan's work. I absolutely LOVED 'Winter of Fire' and 'The Juniper Game.' Who knew she could be such a prude? The central character annoyed me to no end, she had to be constantly marked as 'different' and an 'outsider.' Why did she not simply move back home to be with her family? How did she expect to sup...more

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Mar 23, 2013 Karen Hogan rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Sometimes the best books are geared toward the young adult. Older adults who didnt read this in their teens should give this book a chance. It's a page turner. It takes place in celtic ancient times, where the living was hard, and the inhabitants were superstitious and ignorant of anyone who was different from them. The author does an excellent job making you feel the torment of being locked into a world of silence because of deafness, and the unspeakable things that people will do to a person b...more

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Jan 29, 2011 Catie rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: historical, ya, romance, read-in-2011

This book really took me by surprise on many levels. It's highly simplistic - there's Marnie, Raven, and the priest who are all open-minded and then there's everyone else, who are all ignorant as the day is long. The black and white nature of the characters did prevent me from really buying into this book completely, but I think it's meant to be more of a fantasy. It's a bit like a fairy tale, but I've always been a sucker for those and I totally fell for this one too. The romance is sweet and i...more

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Aug 07, 2012 Lea rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

This book. This book has to be one of my top favorites.

I originally found The Raging Quiet in my High School library, what has to be four years ago or more. The cover...well, the cover didn't please the eye, but after reading the pitch for the novel, I thought I might as well give it a chance. And that is a decision I do not regret and am so thankful I made.

After I finished, I wanted to keep this book, to read again later. Being school property, however, I had to return it. Which lead me on a tw...more

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Nov 26, 2011 Kenya0306 rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: fantasy, historical-fiction, romance, young-adult

I happen to pick up this book in my schools library because I didn't buy my monthly book supply for April lol. My schools library is a disappointment, and that's just putting it lightly. This was the only book that caught my attention with the summary. And I have to say I'm so happy I picked it up.

The concept of sign language and finding love with it made me fall in love with the characters right away. Marnie is a lovable heroine who is married off to keep her families farm and house. She finds...more

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Aug 25, 2010 Charley rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

I remember getting this out from my junior school library like every week, it was one of my favorites. well a couple of months ago I remembered the story but couldn't remember the name, so I kept researching the only thing I could remember which was the story and the main characters names and voila I found it again. well I had to have it so I brought it online, I'm so glad I did. Now I understand why I loved this so much as a child, I still love it as an adult. Its such a sweet, engaging story....more

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Jul 02, 2009 Wealhtheow rated it 1 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: historical

Don’t bother. Boring “historical” fiction, complete with anachronisms, plot holes, and black-and-white dilemmas. I didn’t finish it.

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About Sherryl Jordan

Award-winning New Zealand author Sherryl Jordan began her writing career with picture books, but soon moved on to novels for older readers. Her breakthrough came with Rocco, published in the United States as A Time of Darkness, and since that time she has gone on to pen many more titles for young adult and juvenile readers that have been published both in her native New Zealand and throughout the...more

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Time of the Eagle (Secret Sacrament, #2)

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Quotes from The Raging Quiet

“What is your name?' she asked.

The youth ignored her, lowering his eyelids against the sun. She repeated her question. Again he ignored her, so she touched his arm, and he turned his head and looked at her, suddenly back from his own world, his eyes wary, half afraid. But he saw no anger in her; only the stains of tears, and an awful despair. His face changed, and a look of profound sorrow and compassion came over him. Very slowly he lifted his hand and wiped the tears from her cheeks. No other man could have touched her that morning; but the mad youth, with his extraordinary tenderness, gave such a depth of consolation that she found herself leaning her cheek against his hand, and sobbing. He wept with her, and there wove between them an understanding, a unity deep and poignant and powerful.” — 15 people liked it

“I want you to come with me when i go. But maybe you will not see your cave again, or the stonee rings where we danced. We will maybe not stay near the sea. Will you be happy?
If I can see your face, he signed, I'll be happy.
he embraced her again. For a long time they stayed with their arms about each other, and Marnie did not notice that the potatoes in the embers were burning black, or that the rabbit had jumped out of its box and was drinking the cup of ale she had placed on the hearth to warm for Father Brannan.” — 1 person liked it

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