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Stille angst
Drie mensen kunnen best een geheim bewaren. Zolang twee van hen dood zijn.
Toen dokter Maggie trouwde met een zoon uit de invloedrijke familie Kendall, wist ze dat het gezin geheimen had – alle families hebben die. Maar ze had niet verwacht dat het grootste geheim zou worden bewaard door de man van wie ze hield.
Wanneer haar echtgenoot Will wordt doodgeschoten in hun huis in Londen, denkt Maggie dat hij het slachtoffer is van een fataal afgelopen inbraak. Dan vertelt de politie haar het schokkende nieuws dat Will zelf de trekker heeft overgehaald. Maggie wordt verteerd door verdriet, maar twijfelt aan deze ze weet zeker dat Will niet suïcidaal was.
Na de begrafenis reist Maggie af naar hun vakantiehuis op Tišina, een klein Kroatisch eiland, om Londen te ontvluchten en Wills bezittingen op te ruimen. Daar ontdekt ze dat het ‘s zomers zo paradijselijke eiland in de winter een heel andere plek is. Al snel gebeuren er vreemde dingen in huis, Maggie voelt zich overal bespied en onveilig. En dan ontdekt ze dat Wills duistere geheim verband houdt met iemand uit zijn verleden, en zal ze moeten vechten voor haar eigen leven.
Toen dokter Maggie trouwde met een zoon uit de invloedrijke familie Kendall, wist ze dat het gezin geheimen had – alle families hebben die. Maar ze had niet verwacht dat het grootste geheim zou worden bewaard door de man van wie ze hield.
Wanneer haar echtgenoot Will wordt doodgeschoten in hun huis in Londen, denkt Maggie dat hij het slachtoffer is van een fataal afgelopen inbraak. Dan vertelt de politie haar het schokkende nieuws dat Will zelf de trekker heeft overgehaald. Maggie wordt verteerd door verdriet, maar twijfelt aan deze ze weet zeker dat Will niet suïcidaal was.
Na de begrafenis reist Maggie af naar hun vakantiehuis op Tišina, een klein Kroatisch eiland, om Londen te ontvluchten en Wills bezittingen op te ruimen. Daar ontdekt ze dat het ‘s zomers zo paradijselijke eiland in de winter een heel andere plek is. Al snel gebeuren er vreemde dingen in huis, Maggie voelt zich overal bespied en onveilig. En dan ontdekt ze dat Wills duistere geheim verband houdt met iemand uit zijn verleden, en zal ze moeten vechten voor haar eigen leven.
368 pages, Paperback
First published July 6, 2023
752 people are currently reading
7111 people want to read
About the author
Robert Bryndza
37 books7,227 followersRobert Bryndza is an international bestselling author, best known for his page-turning crime and thriller novels, which have sold over seven million copies.
His crime debut, The Girl in the Ice was released in February 2016, introducing Detective Chief Inspector Erika Foster. Within five months it sold one million copies, reaching number one in the Amazon UK, USA and Australian charts. To date, The Girl in the Ice has sold over 1.5 million copies in the English language and has been sold into translation in 30 countries. It was nominated for the Goodreads Choice Award for Mystery & Thriller (2016), the Grand prix des lectrices de Elle in France (2018), and it won two reader voted awards, The Thrillzone Awards best debut thriller in The Netherlands (2018) and The Dead Good Papercut Award for best page turner at the Harrogate Crime Festival (2016).
Robert has released a further six novels in the Erika Foster series, The Night Stalker, Dark Water, Last Breath, Cold Blood and Deadly Secrets, all of which have been global bestsellers, and in 2017 Last Breath was a Goodreads Choice Award nominee for Mystery and Thriller. Fatal Witness, is the seventh Erika Foster novel.
Most recently, Robert created a new crime thriller series based around the central character Kate Marshall, a police officer turned private detective. The first book, Nine Elms, was an Amazon USA #1 bestseller and an Amazon UK top five bestseller, and the series has been sold into translation in 18 countries. The second book in the series is the global bestselling, Shadow Sands, the third book is, Darkness Falls and the fourth, Devil’s Way has just been published.
Robert was born in Lowestoft, on the east coast of England. He studied at Aberystwyth University, and the Guildford School of Acting, and was an actor for several years, but didn’t find success until he took a play he’d written to the Edinburgh Festival. This led to the decision to change career and start writing. He self-published a bestselling series of romantic comedy novels, before switching to writing crime. Robert lives with his husband in Slovakia, and is lucky enough to write full-time.
You can find out more about Robert and his books at www.robertbryndza.com
His crime debut, The Girl in the Ice was released in February 2016, introducing Detective Chief Inspector Erika Foster. Within five months it sold one million copies, reaching number one in the Amazon UK, USA and Australian charts. To date, The Girl in the Ice has sold over 1.5 million copies in the English language and has been sold into translation in 30 countries. It was nominated for the Goodreads Choice Award for Mystery & Thriller (2016), the Grand prix des lectrices de Elle in France (2018), and it won two reader voted awards, The Thrillzone Awards best debut thriller in The Netherlands (2018) and The Dead Good Papercut Award for best page turner at the Harrogate Crime Festival (2016).
Robert has released a further six novels in the Erika Foster series, The Night Stalker, Dark Water, Last Breath, Cold Blood and Deadly Secrets, all of which have been global bestsellers, and in 2017 Last Breath was a Goodreads Choice Award nominee for Mystery and Thriller. Fatal Witness, is the seventh Erika Foster novel.
Most recently, Robert created a new crime thriller series based around the central character Kate Marshall, a police officer turned private detective. The first book, Nine Elms, was an Amazon USA #1 bestseller and an Amazon UK top five bestseller, and the series has been sold into translation in 18 countries. The second book in the series is the global bestselling, Shadow Sands, the third book is, Darkness Falls and the fourth, Devil’s Way has just been published.
Robert was born in Lowestoft, on the east coast of England. He studied at Aberystwyth University, and the Guildford School of Acting, and was an actor for several years, but didn’t find success until he took a play he’d written to the Edinburgh Festival. This led to the decision to change career and start writing. He self-published a bestselling series of romantic comedy novels, before switching to writing crime. Robert lives with his husband in Slovakia, and is lucky enough to write full-time.
You can find out more about Robert and his books at www.robertbryndza.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 977 reviews
May 19, 2023
Maggie’s husband of 24 years, Will, was found dead in his home office from gunshot wounds. Maggie, a trauma surgeon, thinks he was the victim of a burglary, perhaps someone he recognised who wanted to silence him - the police believe differently though and inform Maggie that Will had pulled the trigger himself!
Maggie travels to their holiday home on a Croatian island, it’s getting towards the end of the holiday season so she needs to close the house up for winter. However, whilst there, she finds a letter with her name on it, written by Will. It’s a letter that disturbs and frightens her, and things are about to go from frightening to terrifying in a very short time!
‘Fear The Silence’ pulled me in from the start, it was gripping and tense, and there were more than a few scenes that had me on the edge of my seat! Recommended.
*Thank you to Netgalley and Raven Street Publishing for an ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
Maggie travels to their holiday home on a Croatian island, it’s getting towards the end of the holiday season so she needs to close the house up for winter. However, whilst there, she finds a letter with her name on it, written by Will. It’s a letter that disturbs and frightens her, and things are about to go from frightening to terrifying in a very short time!
‘Fear The Silence’ pulled me in from the start, it was gripping and tense, and there were more than a few scenes that had me on the edge of my seat! Recommended.
*Thank you to Netgalley and Raven Street Publishing for an ARC in exchange for an honest unbiased review *
May 21, 2023
3.5🌟
During her shift as an ER physician, Maggie is on hand when a gunshot victim is wheeled in. Wait…this must be a horrible dream! There on the gurney is her husband! Her mind has blacked-out. It can’t be so.
The investigation into Will’s death points to suicide, but Maggie refuses to believe it. Retreating to their island home in Croatia, Maggie remains positive about her husband not committing suicide. But of course, that would mean he was murdered! So now Dr. Maggie needs to find the killer before she’s silenced as well!
This was my second read from this popular author, and once again fell just short of my expectations. The opening was great and I was all in until we took off for Croatia. Then it just lost its grip on me.
I can’t quite explain where it went wrong. Perhaps Maggie’s behaviors? All the references to the unrelenting storm?🤷🏻♀️
On the positive side, it was a rapid read if you’re looking for a lighter thriller with plenty of action.
Robert Bryndza has a huge loyal following and there are many five-star reviews for this book so I am a bit of an outlier here(once again). I wanted to love it as much as everyone else but I just fell short of reaching those extra stars!
Thank you to NetGalley and Raven Street Publishing.
During her shift as an ER physician, Maggie is on hand when a gunshot victim is wheeled in. Wait…this must be a horrible dream! There on the gurney is her husband! Her mind has blacked-out. It can’t be so.
The investigation into Will’s death points to suicide, but Maggie refuses to believe it. Retreating to their island home in Croatia, Maggie remains positive about her husband not committing suicide. But of course, that would mean he was murdered! So now Dr. Maggie needs to find the killer before she’s silenced as well!
This was my second read from this popular author, and once again fell just short of my expectations. The opening was great and I was all in until we took off for Croatia. Then it just lost its grip on me.
I can’t quite explain where it went wrong. Perhaps Maggie’s behaviors? All the references to the unrelenting storm?🤷🏻♀️
On the positive side, it was a rapid read if you’re looking for a lighter thriller with plenty of action.
Robert Bryndza has a huge loyal following and there are many five-star reviews for this book so I am a bit of an outlier here(once again). I wanted to love it as much as everyone else but I just fell short of reaching those extra stars!
Thank you to NetGalley and Raven Street Publishing.
August 1, 2023
The story gripped hold of me from the start, and didn’t let up until the satisfying conclusion. Robert Bryndza created an atmosphere that was creepy taught with intensity that didn’t let up. I was on the the edge of my seat with anticipation. A page turner that I had a hard time putting down I read it in a day. I didn’t know what character could be trusted. I was cheering for Maggie to come out of this a stronger woman. Highly recommend, I think fans of Karin Slaughter and Angela Marions will enjoy this stand alone thriller.
A special thanks to Raven Street Publishing and NetGalley for the arc of Fear the Silence by Robert Bryndza in exchange for a honest review.
A special thanks to Raven Street Publishing and NetGalley for the arc of Fear the Silence by Robert Bryndza in exchange for a honest review.
July 5, 2023
Maggie is at work the night her husband, Will, was rushed into the ER. She was devastated when he did not survive. She assumed that the fatal gunshot to the head was the result of a robbery gone bad and was shocked when the police informed her the gunshot was self-inflicted. She could not accept that he would take his own life. He had so much to live for. A business he loved, a happy marriage and nice homes. But there are things that Will had been keeping from her...
Maggie traveled to their vacation home on a small Croatian island after Will's funeral. There she received a letter in the mail from Will, and her grieving will be put on hold as he sends her on a dangerous scavenger hunt, leaving clues, but where will the clues lead her?
The setting of this book was great. Plus, there is that trapped feeling as if she is on a small island and the weather conditions make it difficult almost impossible to get on or off the island. There are also some dangerous situations as scary things begin happening which would have anyone on edge!
Robert Bryndza writes great series which I enjoy and look forward to reading and I was curious about this stand alone. I enjoyed the sense of tension and unease he created in this book. I also love the trapped feeling of not being able to get off the island. The mystery is a little far-fetched but was entertaining. Maggie was in danger a lot in this book. I would have been freaking out big time, but she handled things fairly well. Was it her training as a doctor dealing with high stress medical emergencies that taught her how to compartmentalize so well, is she just very brave or is so driven with her search for the truth that she does some foolish stuff?
I enjoyed the "how well do you know someone" aspect of this book and the role of secrets. As with his other books, he knows how to utilize settings, the weather, and create tension.
Was this my favorite book by him? No, but I still found it to be enjoyable and a fast read which had me lining up my suspects, pointing my finger at some and wondering who things would turn out.
3.5 stars
Thank you to Raven Street Publishing and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
Maggie traveled to their vacation home on a small Croatian island after Will's funeral. There she received a letter in the mail from Will, and her grieving will be put on hold as he sends her on a dangerous scavenger hunt, leaving clues, but where will the clues lead her?
The setting of this book was great. Plus, there is that trapped feeling as if she is on a small island and the weather conditions make it difficult almost impossible to get on or off the island. There are also some dangerous situations as scary things begin happening which would have anyone on edge!
Robert Bryndza writes great series which I enjoy and look forward to reading and I was curious about this stand alone. I enjoyed the sense of tension and unease he created in this book. I also love the trapped feeling of not being able to get off the island. The mystery is a little far-fetched but was entertaining. Maggie was in danger a lot in this book. I would have been freaking out big time, but she handled things fairly well. Was it her training as a doctor dealing with high stress medical emergencies that taught her how to compartmentalize so well, is she just very brave or is so driven with her search for the truth that she does some foolish stuff?
I enjoyed the "how well do you know someone" aspect of this book and the role of secrets. As with his other books, he knows how to utilize settings, the weather, and create tension.
Was this my favorite book by him? No, but I still found it to be enjoyable and a fast read which had me lining up my suspects, pointing my finger at some and wondering who things would turn out.
3.5 stars
Thank you to Raven Street Publishing and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
May 26, 2023
As a fan of both Bryndza’s series, I was anxious to read his latest, a stand-alone called Fear the Silence. It starts off with a strong premise. Maggie goes off to her job on the evening shift as an A & E doctor after a lovely day with her husband, Will. But one of the first patients through the doors is Will, brought in with a fatal gunshot wound to the head. The verdict from police and the ME is suicide. But he’d seemed perfectly happy. After the funeral, Maggie goes to their vacation house on a small Croatian island. And that’s where things start to go wrong for both her and the plot. One weirdly dangerous occurrence after another keeps putting her life in danger. It just felt too contrived for me. Nothing about this story felt plausible. Maggie is able to make huge leaps in divining where to find leads. Yet, at the same time, she often appears clueless. There are multiple attempts on her life. Folks show up at just the right moment to help. Maggie even sees her dead mother’s ghost. Bryndza does a great job in creating an eerie setting, but I want my stories to have a bit more realism to them.
I hope Bryndza’s next book is a return to his much more enjoyable police procedural series.
My thanks to Netgalley and Raven Street Publishing for an advance copy of this book.
I hope Bryndza’s next book is a return to his much more enjoyable police procedural series.
My thanks to Netgalley and Raven Street Publishing for an advance copy of this book.
May 5, 2023
My thanks to Raven Street Publishing, Robert Bryndza and Netgalley. I'm all aboard the Bryndza train, but I'll admit that I should have stepped off this one from the beginning. This is a standalone from this author and I absolutely loathed this book! It started off clumsy and simple? It just felt like it had been written by an inexperienced author. I kept waiting for things to improve, but they never did. I would recommend every other book from this man. But not this.
August 16, 2023
3★
“I returned the smile, trying not to show how nervous that made me feel. Our house was in the most isolated spot on the northwestern tip of the island, and I would be the only woman here with two men.”
She had good cause to be nervous. The publisher’s blurb gives away a lot of the first 20% of the story, presumably to attract readers, but I think it could have held a bit back.
Maggie is a London trauma doctor who married another doctor from a well-to-do family. A few years ago, he told her he’d become a doctor only because it’s what his parents wanted, but his real passion was always for architecture and design – so he quit! His mother has never approved of the change or of Maggie.
“I was surprised to see Will’s mother. Marelle is very tall and willowy and was elegantly dressed head-to-toe in black. Not a hair was out of place. Her height has always intimidated me, and she has this habit of looking down at me without needing to angle her head.”
Will was found dead in his office chair, shot through the head – an apparent suicide. Maggie doesn’t believe it for a minute. He’s been happy and has plans. She decides to escape for a time to their holiday house on a small, much-loved Croatian island.
This is no humble cottage. It is a big home with all the latest smart features, cameras, automatic pool covers, timers. These wi-fi connected conveniences are great when they work, but a good storm can knock them out. Or an intruder who knows the system.
This is a step up from the cat burglar who cuts the phone line or flips the circuit breaker, but the tension is exactly the same. Except this is an ‘almost’ empty island with a weekly ferry, and Maggie is entirely alone. I mentioned storms.
“The wind hit me as it whipped my hair about my head. Waves were smashing against the rocks at the bottom of the cliff, and a knot of black storm clouds gathered on the horizon. It was forty miles to the mainland. I shivered at the thought.”
This part of the world had suffered political upheaval (to put it politely), and Maggie doesn’t really know where the old enmities lie. Can she trust anyone?
As the action heats up and there are wounds to dress (she’s a trauma doctor, remember), she’s on the ball. I’m exaggerating to say she keeps herself going with bones sticking out of her legs, but I just had to suspend disbelief that a good bandage and a dose of pills conquers all.
“When I was clean I applied gauze bandages to the more significant cuts on my legs, and dressed in a warm, soft tracksuit, thick socks, and trainers. I took more antibiotics and painkillers…”
Every time she puts on thick layers of dry clothes, she seems to be immediately drenched again. She’s confused and terrified, but also furious. As she begins to figure out what has happened and why, she is even more frightened (and wet, and cold, and badly wounded). She’s in more trouble than she ever thought possible.
It’s a great premise, with the personal stories mixed with politics and international intrigue. I lost interest as she seemed to overcome such terrible assaults and injuries with bandages and a handful of pills. For me, it felt repetitious.
I like mysteries, so I enjoyed that part, and I’m sure the thriller part will probably appeal to true thriller fans who will forgive a lot for the sake of action!
Thanks to NetGalley and Raven Street Publishing for the copy for review.
“I returned the smile, trying not to show how nervous that made me feel. Our house was in the most isolated spot on the northwestern tip of the island, and I would be the only woman here with two men.”
She had good cause to be nervous. The publisher’s blurb gives away a lot of the first 20% of the story, presumably to attract readers, but I think it could have held a bit back.
Maggie is a London trauma doctor who married another doctor from a well-to-do family. A few years ago, he told her he’d become a doctor only because it’s what his parents wanted, but his real passion was always for architecture and design – so he quit! His mother has never approved of the change or of Maggie.
“I was surprised to see Will’s mother. Marelle is very tall and willowy and was elegantly dressed head-to-toe in black. Not a hair was out of place. Her height has always intimidated me, and she has this habit of looking down at me without needing to angle her head.”
Will was found dead in his office chair, shot through the head – an apparent suicide. Maggie doesn’t believe it for a minute. He’s been happy and has plans. She decides to escape for a time to their holiday house on a small, much-loved Croatian island.
This is no humble cottage. It is a big home with all the latest smart features, cameras, automatic pool covers, timers. These wi-fi connected conveniences are great when they work, but a good storm can knock them out. Or an intruder who knows the system.
This is a step up from the cat burglar who cuts the phone line or flips the circuit breaker, but the tension is exactly the same. Except this is an ‘almost’ empty island with a weekly ferry, and Maggie is entirely alone. I mentioned storms.
“The wind hit me as it whipped my hair about my head. Waves were smashing against the rocks at the bottom of the cliff, and a knot of black storm clouds gathered on the horizon. It was forty miles to the mainland. I shivered at the thought.”
This part of the world had suffered political upheaval (to put it politely), and Maggie doesn’t really know where the old enmities lie. Can she trust anyone?
As the action heats up and there are wounds to dress (she’s a trauma doctor, remember), she’s on the ball. I’m exaggerating to say she keeps herself going with bones sticking out of her legs, but I just had to suspend disbelief that a good bandage and a dose of pills conquers all.
“When I was clean I applied gauze bandages to the more significant cuts on my legs, and dressed in a warm, soft tracksuit, thick socks, and trainers. I took more antibiotics and painkillers…”
Every time she puts on thick layers of dry clothes, she seems to be immediately drenched again. She’s confused and terrified, but also furious. As she begins to figure out what has happened and why, she is even more frightened (and wet, and cold, and badly wounded). She’s in more trouble than she ever thought possible.
It’s a great premise, with the personal stories mixed with politics and international intrigue. I lost interest as she seemed to overcome such terrible assaults and injuries with bandages and a handful of pills. For me, it felt repetitious.
I like mysteries, so I enjoyed that part, and I’m sure the thriller part will probably appeal to true thriller fans who will forgive a lot for the sake of action!
Thanks to NetGalley and Raven Street Publishing for the copy for review.
July 13, 2023
4.5★s
When Maggie waved goodbye to her husband, Will, after the lazy relaxing day they'd had together, she had no idea how much her life was about to change. Some hours later, Maggie and other doctors were called to the emergency department for an incoming gunshot victim - to Maggie's horror, it was Will. She froze, and when the police later informed her he'd committed suicide, Maggie refused to believe it...
A week after Will's funeral, she headed to a small Croatian island where she and Will had a holiday home. When a letter was delivered to her - from Will - she was shocked to read it, and even more so when she discovered the secrets Will had been hiding from her the past six years. And also who else was involved. How could this have happened without her knowledge? Did she even know the husband she'd loved for so long?
Fear the Silence is my first by Robert Bryndza and I thoroughly enjoyed it! I had to suspend my disbelief, especially towards the end, but hey! that's what fiction is all about - isn't it?!!! Fast paced and electric, it was a great few hours of high-octane entertainment! Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
When Maggie waved goodbye to her husband, Will, after the lazy relaxing day they'd had together, she had no idea how much her life was about to change. Some hours later, Maggie and other doctors were called to the emergency department for an incoming gunshot victim - to Maggie's horror, it was Will. She froze, and when the police later informed her he'd committed suicide, Maggie refused to believe it...
A week after Will's funeral, she headed to a small Croatian island where she and Will had a holiday home. When a letter was delivered to her - from Will - she was shocked to read it, and even more so when she discovered the secrets Will had been hiding from her the past six years. And also who else was involved. How could this have happened without her knowledge? Did she even know the husband she'd loved for so long?
Fear the Silence is my first by Robert Bryndza and I thoroughly enjoyed it! I had to suspend my disbelief, especially towards the end, but hey! that's what fiction is all about - isn't it?!!! Fast paced and electric, it was a great few hours of high-octane entertainment! Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
May 10, 2023
What can I say about Robert Bryndza books that I haven't said before. His Erika Foster books are one of my favourite police procedural series , so when I heard he had a new, stand alone thriller coming out I was very excited indeed.
I have to say, it did not disappoint. It was dark and twisty and kept surprising me until the very end. It was a case of who can our main character trust, and there were plenty of very unlikeable characters .
A satisfying ending, I can't recommend his books more. Thanks to Raven Street Publishing for my advanced copy to read. Publishes on July 6th
I have to say, it did not disappoint. It was dark and twisty and kept surprising me until the very end. It was a case of who can our main character trust, and there were plenty of very unlikeable characters .
A satisfying ending, I can't recommend his books more. Thanks to Raven Street Publishing for my advanced copy to read. Publishes on July 6th
May 5, 2023
4-5 stars
“Three may keep a secret if two are dead“. Benjamin Franklin, “Poor Richards Almanac“ 1735.
Will and Maggie have been married for twenty four years, she’s an A&E doctor at St Thomas’ Hospital and he is a former forensic pathologist, now a property developer. It’s near the end of Maggie’s long nightshift, when a man is brought in with a gunshot wound, and, despite the best efforts of the team, he dies. To Maggie’s sheer and utter shock the victim is Will. The police believe he has taken his own life but Maggie refuses to believe he was suicidal as he wasn’t depressed and his new career going well. As for possessing a gun, absolutely not. After the funeral she travels to their Croatian island home where things get even more strange and scary. Does the answer lie in Will‘s past?
This standalone is the novel I’ve enjoyed the most from Robert Bryndza as it’s so easy to read and it pulls you in effortlessly right from the start. It’s action packed and you become desperate for answers. Parts of the book are fear inducing, creepy and chilling and like Maggie, you can scarcely breathe as the tension is sky high. As things, escalate, it’s no longer possible to attribute things to coincidence as the danger levels rise exponentially. The setting on the small Croatian island is fantastic, the atmosphere is menacing and electric with the house, the sea and local characters adding to the suspense and tension. Stormy weather matches the potential storm of Maggie’s discoveries in an exciting fast paced plot that constantly changes with some good twists and turns. I gasp in shock towards the end which is very satisfying as one character gets precisely what they deserve.
This is a very compelling, thrilling, edge of your seat, page turner, and one I recommend to fans of the genre.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Raven Street Publishing for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
“Three may keep a secret if two are dead“. Benjamin Franklin, “Poor Richards Almanac“ 1735.
Will and Maggie have been married for twenty four years, she’s an A&E doctor at St Thomas’ Hospital and he is a former forensic pathologist, now a property developer. It’s near the end of Maggie’s long nightshift, when a man is brought in with a gunshot wound, and, despite the best efforts of the team, he dies. To Maggie’s sheer and utter shock the victim is Will. The police believe he has taken his own life but Maggie refuses to believe he was suicidal as he wasn’t depressed and his new career going well. As for possessing a gun, absolutely not. After the funeral she travels to their Croatian island home where things get even more strange and scary. Does the answer lie in Will‘s past?
This standalone is the novel I’ve enjoyed the most from Robert Bryndza as it’s so easy to read and it pulls you in effortlessly right from the start. It’s action packed and you become desperate for answers. Parts of the book are fear inducing, creepy and chilling and like Maggie, you can scarcely breathe as the tension is sky high. As things, escalate, it’s no longer possible to attribute things to coincidence as the danger levels rise exponentially. The setting on the small Croatian island is fantastic, the atmosphere is menacing and electric with the house, the sea and local characters adding to the suspense and tension. Stormy weather matches the potential storm of Maggie’s discoveries in an exciting fast paced plot that constantly changes with some good twists and turns. I gasp in shock towards the end which is very satisfying as one character gets precisely what they deserve.
This is a very compelling, thrilling, edge of your seat, page turner, and one I recommend to fans of the genre.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Raven Street Publishing for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
May 17, 2023
Firstly I would like to thank netgalley and Raven street publishers and the brilliant author Robert bryndza for a early copy of his book to read.
This is one of my favourite authors, I've read his crime reads Erika Foster series and love the Kate Marshall series.This is a standalone read.Maggie a doctor working a shift when her husband Will came in shot,did he commit suicide?or was someone behind it? She is not convinced it was suicide. She takes a break to her holiday home where she finds a letter from Will. There are hidden secrets will she discover the truth..my rating is 3.5 for me the storyline was good but I couldn't connect with the characters and struggled with this read... please still read this book as many readers gave this book a high rating...looking forward to reading more of his books..
This book will be reviewed on goodreads and Amazon uk.
This is one of my favourite authors, I've read his crime reads Erika Foster series and love the Kate Marshall series.This is a standalone read.Maggie a doctor working a shift when her husband Will came in shot,did he commit suicide?or was someone behind it? She is not convinced it was suicide. She takes a break to her holiday home where she finds a letter from Will. There are hidden secrets will she discover the truth..my rating is 3.5 for me the storyline was good but I couldn't connect with the characters and struggled with this read... please still read this book as many readers gave this book a high rating...looking forward to reading more of his books..
This book will be reviewed on goodreads and Amazon uk.
July 4, 2023
I have read and enjoyed many books by this author so I was very happy to get an advance copy of this new one, which I believe is his first standalone.
The story revolves around Maggie, a doctor, trying to come to terms with the death of her husband, apparently by suicide. She quickly discovers things which show this was not the case, and finds a whole side of her husband's life which she knew nothing about. Consequent discoveries put her and her associates in incredible danger,
The premise of the story was excellent but sadly I did not believe in any of the characters, especially Maggie herself whose behaviour was frequently quite irrational. The book was fast paced, tense, complex and scary - all those things yet I cannot say I actually enjoyed it. Sadly I can only give it two stars and say it was okay.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
The story revolves around Maggie, a doctor, trying to come to terms with the death of her husband, apparently by suicide. She quickly discovers things which show this was not the case, and finds a whole side of her husband's life which she knew nothing about. Consequent discoveries put her and her associates in incredible danger,
The premise of the story was excellent but sadly I did not believe in any of the characters, especially Maggie herself whose behaviour was frequently quite irrational. The book was fast paced, tense, complex and scary - all those things yet I cannot say I actually enjoyed it. Sadly I can only give it two stars and say it was okay.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
May 5, 2023
My thanks to Raven Street Publishing, Robert Bryndza and Netgalley.
I'm all aboard the Bryndza train, but I'll admit that I should have stepped off this one from the beginning.
This is a standalone from this author and I absolutely loathed this book! It started off clumsy and simple? It just felt like it had been written by an inexperienced author. I kept waiting for things to improve, but they never did.
I would recommend every other book from this man. But not this.
I'm all aboard the Bryndza train, but I'll admit that I should have stepped off this one from the beginning.
This is a standalone from this author and I absolutely loathed this book! It started off clumsy and simple? It just felt like it had been written by an inexperienced author. I kept waiting for things to improve, but they never did.
I would recommend every other book from this man. But not this.
September 5, 2023
underwhelming
Rounded up to 3 stars (mostly because of the writing)
Well, this one was a disappointment for me.
I did not care about anything.
It started very well and I enjoyed the writing, but the development was over the top.
Action lovers will probably rave about this one.
You may be wondering why I read it.
I loved his Erika Foster’s series, so I purchased a copy of this standalone book, as well as the audiobook (both were on sale).
The audiobook is excellent, but if you increase the speed the narrator will sound as if she was 75 years old (the main character is 47).
The audiobook, which I played simultaneously, brought everything to life, so I do recommend it.
I still have to try his Kate Marshall’s series (I own a copy of every single book, all unopened).
E-book (Kindle): 350 pages (default)
Audiobook narrated by Jilly Bond: 9.6 hours (normal speed)
Rounded up to 3 stars (mostly because of the writing)
Well, this one was a disappointment for me.
I did not care about anything.
It started very well and I enjoyed the writing, but the development was over the top.
Action lovers will probably rave about this one.
You may be wondering why I read it.
I loved his Erika Foster’s series, so I purchased a copy of this standalone book, as well as the audiobook (both were on sale).
The audiobook is excellent, but if you increase the speed the narrator will sound as if she was 75 years old (the main character is 47).
The audiobook, which I played simultaneously, brought everything to life, so I do recommend it.
I still have to try his Kate Marshall’s series (I own a copy of every single book, all unopened).
E-book (Kindle): 350 pages (default)
Audiobook narrated by Jilly Bond: 9.6 hours (normal speed)
December 30, 2023
Stille angst van Robert Bryndza is de eerste standalone die verschenen is in België. Eerder las ik alles al van de Erika Foster en Kate Marshall reeks. Stille angst kon dus zeker niet achterblijven. Ik had het geluk dat ik Robert Bryndza kon ontmoeten in Boektopia (Kortrijk) en een lezing kon meepikken. De kerstman kwam dit jaar ook iets vroeger want ik kreeg ook nog een handtekening en een foto samen met dit boek. Gelukkiger kan je me niet maken!
Stille angst heeft dus een totaal andere opzet dan de eerdere verhalen van Bryndza en het draait hier dus niet om een seriepersonage zoals we gewend zijn. In stille angst maken we kennis met Maggie die een onmenselijk verdriet ervaart als haar echtgenoot Will dood wordt aangetroffen en voor haar ogen sterft. Will bleek er geheimen op na te houden waar Maggie niets van wist en zo wordt een hele cyclus in gang gezet. Maggie reist af naar een eiland in Kroatië waar het koppel een vakantiewoning heeft en maakt er een hele hoop mee. Het ene al beangstigender dan het andere.
In het begin had ik wat moeite met het verhaal en kwam ik er minder snel in dan bij Bryndza’s andere boeken. Het boek wordt echter zeer spannend vanaf het moment dat Maggie voet zet in het vakantiehuis. Het boek bevat heel veel actie en bij bepaalde geheimen die bloot komen te liggen, weet de lezer ongeveer wel hoe de vork in de steel zit. Toch maakt dat het niet minder spannend of aangenaam om verder te lezen. Het einde bevat dan nog een speciale ontknoping die de kers op de taart vormt.
Stille angst heeft ondanks zijn andere opzet en andere personages me weten te overtuigen dat Bryndza ook hele goede standalone verhalen kan opbouwen. Misschien ben ik nog net wat meer fan van Erika Foster, maar stille angst komt aardig in de buurt! Ik geef het boek dan ook graag 4,5 sterren.
https://elinevandm.wordpress.com/2023...
Stille angst heeft dus een totaal andere opzet dan de eerdere verhalen van Bryndza en het draait hier dus niet om een seriepersonage zoals we gewend zijn. In stille angst maken we kennis met Maggie die een onmenselijk verdriet ervaart als haar echtgenoot Will dood wordt aangetroffen en voor haar ogen sterft. Will bleek er geheimen op na te houden waar Maggie niets van wist en zo wordt een hele cyclus in gang gezet. Maggie reist af naar een eiland in Kroatië waar het koppel een vakantiewoning heeft en maakt er een hele hoop mee. Het ene al beangstigender dan het andere.
In het begin had ik wat moeite met het verhaal en kwam ik er minder snel in dan bij Bryndza’s andere boeken. Het boek wordt echter zeer spannend vanaf het moment dat Maggie voet zet in het vakantiehuis. Het boek bevat heel veel actie en bij bepaalde geheimen die bloot komen te liggen, weet de lezer ongeveer wel hoe de vork in de steel zit. Toch maakt dat het niet minder spannend of aangenaam om verder te lezen. Het einde bevat dan nog een speciale ontknoping die de kers op de taart vormt.
Stille angst heeft ondanks zijn andere opzet en andere personages me weten te overtuigen dat Bryndza ook hele goede standalone verhalen kan opbouwen. Misschien ben ik nog net wat meer fan van Erika Foster, maar stille angst komt aardig in de buurt! Ik geef het boek dan ook graag 4,5 sterren.
https://elinevandm.wordpress.com/2023...
May 7, 2023
"Fear The Silence" by Robert Bryndza is an expertly-plotted standalone crime thriller that will keep readers gripped until the last page. I know the author from his Detective Erika Foster series, so I was happy that my request for ARC was accepted. And let me tell you upfront, I loved the book!
The book follows Maggie Kendall, a 47-year-old trauma surgeon working in A&E. She lives happily with her husband Will, formerly a forensic pathologist and now an architect, in their London home with no kids by choice. Her life turns upside down after her husband is found shot dead in their home, and the police deem it a suicide.
Maggie decides to go to their holiday home on a small Croatian island to retrieve a few of her husband's things and recover from her loss while doing so. A letter from her dead husband, written six years previously and hinting at dark secrets to come, makes her question how well she knew her husband. The plot thickens as curious tidbits pop up, making her realize there is more to her husband's death than meets the eye. Weird incidents on the island bring her to suspect her life is at risk. She has to piece together the pieces, and fast, before it is too late. Someone wants to bury those secrets and will go to great lengths to do so. After all, "Three can keep a secret... If two of them are dead."
The story was an entertaining and interesting action-packed tale. I like strong heroines, and Maggie was just that. She's one of those heroines that you positively want to root for and pray for her success. Some elements of the story may have been too fantastic, but they fit nicely into the story, and it didn't bother me.
Robert Bryndza's writing is compelling and suspenseful, and he expertly builds tension and atmosphere throughout the book. At one point I wondered how the author would wrap up the story, and let me tell you, it was exactly right! I rate it 5/5 stars for its gripping and engaging story. This novel will appeal to readers of crime thrillers and anyone who loves intrigue and action. Recommended of course!
* Thank you NetGalley and (publisher) for the opportunity to read this arc. All opinions are my own.
* Review in my blog: https://galibookish.blogspot.com/2023...
The book follows Maggie Kendall, a 47-year-old trauma surgeon working in A&E. She lives happily with her husband Will, formerly a forensic pathologist and now an architect, in their London home with no kids by choice. Her life turns upside down after her husband is found shot dead in their home, and the police deem it a suicide.
Maggie decides to go to their holiday home on a small Croatian island to retrieve a few of her husband's things and recover from her loss while doing so. A letter from her dead husband, written six years previously and hinting at dark secrets to come, makes her question how well she knew her husband. The plot thickens as curious tidbits pop up, making her realize there is more to her husband's death than meets the eye. Weird incidents on the island bring her to suspect her life is at risk. She has to piece together the pieces, and fast, before it is too late. Someone wants to bury those secrets and will go to great lengths to do so. After all, "Three can keep a secret... If two of them are dead."
The story was an entertaining and interesting action-packed tale. I like strong heroines, and Maggie was just that. She's one of those heroines that you positively want to root for and pray for her success. Some elements of the story may have been too fantastic, but they fit nicely into the story, and it didn't bother me.
Robert Bryndza's writing is compelling and suspenseful, and he expertly builds tension and atmosphere throughout the book. At one point I wondered how the author would wrap up the story, and let me tell you, it was exactly right! I rate it 5/5 stars for its gripping and engaging story. This novel will appeal to readers of crime thrillers and anyone who loves intrigue and action. Recommended of course!
* Thank you NetGalley and (publisher) for the opportunity to read this arc. All opinions are my own.
* Review in my blog: https://galibookish.blogspot.com/2023...
June 12, 2023
I'm seeing all the wonderful reviews, but unfortunately, I'm not raving mad about this book. I absolutely adored Devil's Way, so maybe my issue is that I was expecting too much?
Maggie is a A&E lead surgeon and her life is suddenly ripped apart when her husband seems to have committed suicide. It doesn't make any sense to her, but she has no choice but to mourn her beloved partner. She travels to Croatia to close their holiday home and to bring back some heirlooms to the UK. There she starts to find very troubling messages and there are multiple attempts on her life. From then on the story takes a whole different turn that I didn't expect. It becomes very fast paced with explosions, a killer for hire, corrupt law enforcement, secret service agents and all based on a political intrigue. I felt that the fast twists and turns and the take on a political thriller were at the detriment of character and believable plot building.
I will absolutely read other Robert Bryndza books as I stay convinced that he is a great writer with a vivid imagination, but unfortunately, this standalone wasn't for me.
Thank you NetGalley, Raven Street Publishing and the author for an ARC in exchange for a review.
Maggie is a A&E lead surgeon and her life is suddenly ripped apart when her husband seems to have committed suicide. It doesn't make any sense to her, but she has no choice but to mourn her beloved partner. She travels to Croatia to close their holiday home and to bring back some heirlooms to the UK. There she starts to find very troubling messages and there are multiple attempts on her life. From then on the story takes a whole different turn that I didn't expect. It becomes very fast paced with explosions, a killer for hire, corrupt law enforcement, secret service agents and all based on a political intrigue. I felt that the fast twists and turns and the take on a political thriller were at the detriment of character and believable plot building.
I will absolutely read other Robert Bryndza books as I stay convinced that he is a great writer with a vivid imagination, but unfortunately, this standalone wasn't for me.
Thank you NetGalley, Raven Street Publishing and the author for an ARC in exchange for a review.
June 9, 2023
Maggie is a doctor and her husband Will is hauled in with a gunshot wound to the head. Will quickly dies and Maggie is devastated. She travels to their island vacation home to close it up for the winter.
While there she finds a letter from Will and it turns her world upside down.
This was an excellent read that I finished quickly. Thanks NetGalley and Raven Street Publishing for this ARC that will be released July 6, 2023!
While there she finds a letter from Will and it turns her world upside down.
This was an excellent read that I finished quickly. Thanks NetGalley and Raven Street Publishing for this ARC that will be released July 6, 2023!
April 24, 2023
An awesome mind-boggling thriller! I had been reading both Robert Bryndza's Erika Foster and Kate Marshall series and they are both really good, so I was happy to see this stand-alone book by the same author. The book took off quickly at the start an never let up!
Maggie Kendall, a trauma surgeon, went to work after spending a nice day with her husband. But he is brought in to A & E and quickly died. Maggie goes to their holiday home in Croatia for a week to try to relax and pick up some things her husband's family want returned. While there things get quite scary. Some strange things are happening and she's not sure if she is imagining them or if someone is trying to hurt her.
This book is gripping and tense. I couldn't put it down. It was full of action and suspense and was a great thriller. I highly recommend it to anyone who likes thrillers as I'm sure this one would be enjoyed.
Thanks to Raven Street Publishing through Netgalley for an advance copy. This book will be published on July 6, 2023.
Maggie Kendall, a trauma surgeon, went to work after spending a nice day with her husband. But he is brought in to A & E and quickly died. Maggie goes to their holiday home in Croatia for a week to try to relax and pick up some things her husband's family want returned. While there things get quite scary. Some strange things are happening and she's not sure if she is imagining them or if someone is trying to hurt her.
This book is gripping and tense. I couldn't put it down. It was full of action and suspense and was a great thriller. I highly recommend it to anyone who likes thrillers as I'm sure this one would be enjoyed.
Thanks to Raven Street Publishing through Netgalley for an advance copy. This book will be published on July 6, 2023.
June 13, 2023
First and foremost, a large thank you to NetGalley, Robert Bryndza, and Raven Street Publishing for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.
Maggie Kendall is a reputable trauma surgeon who has experience keeping it cool. However, when a patient is rushed into the A&E with a gunshot wound, all coolness evaporates as soon as Maggie realises that it is her husband, Will. Frozen in place, Maggie can only wonder if Will was the victim of a home invasion. Once he dies on the table, Maggie is sure the hunt is on for the killer. That is turned on its head when police infirm Maggie that Will’s gunshot wound appears to have been self-inflicted.
Escaping to their other home in Croatia after the funeral, Maggie tries to piece it all together and determine what Will must have been going through to want to kill him self. She receives a letter, posted by Will’s solicitor, from six years ago, Will’s own handwriting fills the pages, in which he explains that he had made arrangements for Maggie to receive this upon his death. Maggie is pulled into a whirlwind of confusion, unsure why Will would orchestrate something so intense.
When she is attacked inside her own on a remote island, Maggie is sure that someone is targeting her for what Will knew. She tries to escape, but is unable to flee without numerous scrapes and bruises. When she tries to get back to the UK, her plans are sidetracked and she becomes a missing person. Left with little idea what’s going on, Maggie will need to reach the authorities to share her news, though she might be dead before it comes to pass! Bryndza is brilliant once again.
While I have loved reading some of Robert Bryndza’s series work, it is nice to see that he can be just as impactful with standalone work. The narrative basis of the book builds effectively throughout the piece, keeping the reading guessing what awaits around each corner. Characters find themselves keeping the story moving as they offer perspective and flavouring, needed for a standalone, as the reader has no basis for past remembrances. Plot lines are numerous and well-placed, keeping the story moving with a psychological undertone. Bryndza’s traditional writing style emerged and thickens the story’s plot at just the right moments.
Kudos, Mr. Bryndza, for another great story. I could not ask for more!!
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
Maggie Kendall is a reputable trauma surgeon who has experience keeping it cool. However, when a patient is rushed into the A&E with a gunshot wound, all coolness evaporates as soon as Maggie realises that it is her husband, Will. Frozen in place, Maggie can only wonder if Will was the victim of a home invasion. Once he dies on the table, Maggie is sure the hunt is on for the killer. That is turned on its head when police infirm Maggie that Will’s gunshot wound appears to have been self-inflicted.
Escaping to their other home in Croatia after the funeral, Maggie tries to piece it all together and determine what Will must have been going through to want to kill him self. She receives a letter, posted by Will’s solicitor, from six years ago, Will’s own handwriting fills the pages, in which he explains that he had made arrangements for Maggie to receive this upon his death. Maggie is pulled into a whirlwind of confusion, unsure why Will would orchestrate something so intense.
When she is attacked inside her own on a remote island, Maggie is sure that someone is targeting her for what Will knew. She tries to escape, but is unable to flee without numerous scrapes and bruises. When she tries to get back to the UK, her plans are sidetracked and she becomes a missing person. Left with little idea what’s going on, Maggie will need to reach the authorities to share her news, though she might be dead before it comes to pass! Bryndza is brilliant once again.
While I have loved reading some of Robert Bryndza’s series work, it is nice to see that he can be just as impactful with standalone work. The narrative basis of the book builds effectively throughout the piece, keeping the reading guessing what awaits around each corner. Characters find themselves keeping the story moving as they offer perspective and flavouring, needed for a standalone, as the reader has no basis for past remembrances. Plot lines are numerous and well-placed, keeping the story moving with a psychological undertone. Bryndza’s traditional writing style emerged and thickens the story’s plot at just the right moments.
Kudos, Mr. Bryndza, for another great story. I could not ask for more!!
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
July 2, 2023
When Maggie's husband, Will, is shot dead in their London home, she thinks he is the victim of a burglary until the police tell her the shocking news that Will was the one who pulled the trigger. Maggie is consumed by grief and questions. will wasn't suicidal and had so much to live for. After the funeral, Maggie travels to their holiday home on a small Croatian island to escape London. She finds a disturbing letter written by Will, containing clues to a dark secret. As Maggie puts the pieces together, she discovers Will's death is connected to someone from his past.... Someone who will go to extreme lengths to keep Maggie silent.
This is a new standalone thriller from the author, and I was looking forward to reading it. I was not disappointed. Maggie is a trauma doctor and she's shocked to discover that the patient on the table is her husband, Will. His death is ruled as a suicide, but Maggie is not convinced. Will would not take his own life. After the funeral she travels to Croatia where they had a holiday home. She finds a disturbing letter written by Will confirming the circumstances of his death weren't straightforward. This is a descriptively written book. Maggie doesn't know who she can trust. The pace is fast, and its action packed. I love the authors writing style. The suspense builds throughout. It had everything I like in a book - mysterious death, secrets and corruption. The ending was a surprise.
I would like to thank #Netgalley #RavenStreetPublishing and the author #robertbryndza for my ARC of #FearTheSilence in exchange for an honest review.
This is a new standalone thriller from the author, and I was looking forward to reading it. I was not disappointed. Maggie is a trauma doctor and she's shocked to discover that the patient on the table is her husband, Will. His death is ruled as a suicide, but Maggie is not convinced. Will would not take his own life. After the funeral she travels to Croatia where they had a holiday home. She finds a disturbing letter written by Will confirming the circumstances of his death weren't straightforward. This is a descriptively written book. Maggie doesn't know who she can trust. The pace is fast, and its action packed. I love the authors writing style. The suspense builds throughout. It had everything I like in a book - mysterious death, secrets and corruption. The ending was a surprise.
I would like to thank #Netgalley #RavenStreetPublishing and the author #robertbryndza for my ARC of #FearTheSilence in exchange for an honest review.
September 25, 2023
FEAR THE SILENCE is his first stand-alone thriller by international multi-million bestselling author, Robert Bryndza, the author of crime and thriller debut “The Girl in the Ice “. Having loved his Detective Erika Foster Series and his Kate Marshall Series, I was anxious to read his latest stand-alone thriller.
This is my review of Fear The Silence.
Maggie Kendall is an experienced trauma surgeon and works out of a London hospital. Her husband, Will, was a forensic pathologist that left medicine six years ago to be a property developer. Hey have been married for twenty-four years and no children.
When Maggie leaves for her evening shift at the hospital, she leaves Will and Luna, the cat watching TV. But then Will, is brought in with a fatal gunshot wound to the head.
When Maggie’s husband, Will, is shot dead in their London home, she thinks he is the victim of a burglary until the police tell her the shocking news that Will was the one who pulled the trigger. The police believe that this was a suicide.
How was this possible? Will had been happy and wasn’t suicidal and had so much to live for. Maggie was consumed with grief and questions.
After the funeral, Maggie travels to their holiday home on a small Croatian island to escape London. She finds a disturbing letter written by Will, containing clues to a dark secret.
And then her life was in danger.
Maggie soon discovers that Will’s death is connected to someone from his past… and keep Maggie silent.
This novel will keep you hooked until the very last page.
This is a well-developed book, from the clever title and from cover, to the ending. Characters come alive as you read each small detail unfolding. While not all this story felt plausible, I felt the strength of this novel was the vivid imagery of the Croatian island, which added depth to the scene.
Many thanks to the author, Raven Street Publishing and NetGalley for my digital copy.
This is my review of Fear The Silence.
Maggie Kendall is an experienced trauma surgeon and works out of a London hospital. Her husband, Will, was a forensic pathologist that left medicine six years ago to be a property developer. Hey have been married for twenty-four years and no children.
When Maggie leaves for her evening shift at the hospital, she leaves Will and Luna, the cat watching TV. But then Will, is brought in with a fatal gunshot wound to the head.
When Maggie’s husband, Will, is shot dead in their London home, she thinks he is the victim of a burglary until the police tell her the shocking news that Will was the one who pulled the trigger. The police believe that this was a suicide.
How was this possible? Will had been happy and wasn’t suicidal and had so much to live for. Maggie was consumed with grief and questions.
After the funeral, Maggie travels to their holiday home on a small Croatian island to escape London. She finds a disturbing letter written by Will, containing clues to a dark secret.
And then her life was in danger.
Maggie soon discovers that Will’s death is connected to someone from his past… and keep Maggie silent.
This novel will keep you hooked until the very last page.
This is a well-developed book, from the clever title and from cover, to the ending. Characters come alive as you read each small detail unfolding. While not all this story felt plausible, I felt the strength of this novel was the vivid imagery of the Croatian island, which added depth to the scene.
Many thanks to the author, Raven Street Publishing and NetGalley for my digital copy.
July 21, 2023
*4.5 stars rounded up*
Loved it! This is only my 2nd by this author, and all I can say is I need to read more from him.
Maggie’s husband of 24 years was found dead by a gunshot wound at their home. The doctors and police have ruled it as suicide.
Maggie travels to their holiday home on a Croatian Island to grieve her husband and come to terms with his death. While there she discovers a letter written to her by her deceased husband. Here are where the terrifying twists and turns begin along with a dangerous scavenger hunt … escalating to an explosive ending.
Highly atmospheric, locked room (in more ways than one) and super high tension. This one had me on the edge of my seat!
Highly recommended!
Loved it! This is only my 2nd by this author, and all I can say is I need to read more from him.
Maggie’s husband of 24 years was found dead by a gunshot wound at their home. The doctors and police have ruled it as suicide.
Maggie travels to their holiday home on a Croatian Island to grieve her husband and come to terms with his death. While there she discovers a letter written to her by her deceased husband. Here are where the terrifying twists and turns begin along with a dangerous scavenger hunt … escalating to an explosive ending.
Highly atmospheric, locked room (in more ways than one) and super high tension. This one had me on the edge of my seat!
Highly recommended!
January 17, 2023
One of the best thrillers I have ever read!! SO creepy and atmospheric. Absolutely loved the main character and the fascinating and scary Croatian island where lots of the story happens.
June 30, 2023
Maggie, a physician, is in shock when the gunshot victim brought into the A&E is her beloved husband, Will, and she is told he committed suicide. Six years ago, he gave up his career as a forensic pathologist to become a land developer. When Maggie travels to their vacation home on an island in Croatia and receives a mysterious letter from Will, she is determined to find out the circumstances of his death, thus putting herself and others in grave danger.
I would call this more of an action thriller than just a mystery; at times it seemed like a horror story. Although it is not my favorite by this author, whom I like, it was so compelling I couldn’t put it down and read it in a day. Much of the action was a bit over the top; I don’t typically like to have to suspend my belief when reading a book. The ending was very satisfying.
Fans of Bryndza’s Kate Marshall or Erika Foster series (which are on my “don’t miss” list) will find this standalone thriller different from those detective novels. Just like another book by a prolific author I recently read, I could see this serving as a treatment for a Netflix series!
Thanks to #netgalley and #ravenstreetpublishing for the ARC.
I would call this more of an action thriller than just a mystery; at times it seemed like a horror story. Although it is not my favorite by this author, whom I like, it was so compelling I couldn’t put it down and read it in a day. Much of the action was a bit over the top; I don’t typically like to have to suspend my belief when reading a book. The ending was very satisfying.
Fans of Bryndza’s Kate Marshall or Erika Foster series (which are on my “don’t miss” list) will find this standalone thriller different from those detective novels. Just like another book by a prolific author I recently read, I could see this serving as a treatment for a Netflix series!
Thanks to #netgalley and #ravenstreetpublishing for the ARC.
August 5, 2023
Fear the Silence is a gripping standalone thriller from the author of the well-loved Erika Foster and Kate Marshall series.
London trauma doctor Maggie Kendall's life is turned on its head when her husband Will arrives in the Emergency Department - as a seriously injured patient. Sadly, Will's death is inevitable despite the efforts of Maggie's colleagues, and to make a horrible situation even worse, it quickly becomes clear that police regard his death as a suicide.
Left reeling, Maggie retreats to the holiday home she and Will shared on the (fictional) Croatian island of Tišina. That's when things start getting creepy... Maggie receives a mysterious letter from beyond the grave from Will, forwarded by a London solicitor, indicating that there's more to his recent death than authorities realise. She also faces a couple of inexplicable but life-threatening incidents connected to the "Smart" features of the modernist house. Then Will's best friend, who'd said he was unable to attend Will's funeral, turns up on his yacht. As the island is cut off by a storm, Maggie's caught up in a spine-chilling struggle to solve the mystery of Will's death, while not falling victim to the same malevolent force herself.
The tightly-plotted story contains a well-balanced combination of suspense, shocking twists and political intrigue, which kept me on the edge of my seat until the end. Robert Bryndza captures the emotional torment, fear and determination of the main character phenomenally well - resulting in a thriller that will have a visceral effect on readers. The setting on an island off the Dalmatian coast of Croatia is inspired by the author's own experience of holidaying in Baška on the island of Krk and elsewhere in Croatia. He evocatively relates the dramatic scenery, isolation and wild weather of the Adriatic in winter.
I'd highly recommend Fear the Silence to existing fans of Robert Bryndza's crime fiction, but also as a perfect starting point for those who are yet to delve into his work, given that it's a standalone.
My thanks to the author, Robert Bryndza, publisher Raven Street Publishing, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this exciting title.
London trauma doctor Maggie Kendall's life is turned on its head when her husband Will arrives in the Emergency Department - as a seriously injured patient. Sadly, Will's death is inevitable despite the efforts of Maggie's colleagues, and to make a horrible situation even worse, it quickly becomes clear that police regard his death as a suicide.
Left reeling, Maggie retreats to the holiday home she and Will shared on the (fictional) Croatian island of Tišina. That's when things start getting creepy... Maggie receives a mysterious letter from beyond the grave from Will, forwarded by a London solicitor, indicating that there's more to his recent death than authorities realise. She also faces a couple of inexplicable but life-threatening incidents connected to the "Smart" features of the modernist house. Then Will's best friend, who'd said he was unable to attend Will's funeral, turns up on his yacht. As the island is cut off by a storm, Maggie's caught up in a spine-chilling struggle to solve the mystery of Will's death, while not falling victim to the same malevolent force herself.
The tightly-plotted story contains a well-balanced combination of suspense, shocking twists and political intrigue, which kept me on the edge of my seat until the end. Robert Bryndza captures the emotional torment, fear and determination of the main character phenomenally well - resulting in a thriller that will have a visceral effect on readers. The setting on an island off the Dalmatian coast of Croatia is inspired by the author's own experience of holidaying in Baška on the island of Krk and elsewhere in Croatia. He evocatively relates the dramatic scenery, isolation and wild weather of the Adriatic in winter.
I'd highly recommend Fear the Silence to existing fans of Robert Bryndza's crime fiction, but also as a perfect starting point for those who are yet to delve into his work, given that it's a standalone.
My thanks to the author, Robert Bryndza, publisher Raven Street Publishing, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this exciting title.
April 5, 2025
3,5 ✨✨✨
(Audiobook)
(Audiobook)
October 19, 2023
Fear The Silence is a stand-alone novel by award-winning, best-selling British author, Robert Bryndza. Even when the pathologist tells Senior Registrar at Guys’ Hospital, Dr Maggie Kendall that he pulled the trigger, she refuses to believe that her husband Will took his own life. They bury him on what would have been their twenty-fourth anniversary, but even if she didn’t know him as well as she believed, Maggie knows that Will was not suicidal.
Both of those prove true. When she heads to their Croatian Island holiday home to sort out his things, a letter from Will indicates that he anticipated his death, and sends her hunting for an explanation. The letter was written six years earlier, at the same time as Will gave up his career as a forensic pathologist to become a property developer, and also when he bought a gun.
At their fully digitised house in Tisina, suddenly too many incidents endanger her life and she’s desperate to return to London, where a close friend doing her a favour has also come to grief. It’s starting to look like Will’s legacy is quite the poisoned chalice. Getting off the island, at first straightforward, unexpectedly becomes much more of a challenge, and going back to the UK may be the right thing to do, but is it safe?
Bryndza gives the reader a tightly plotted thriller with a hefty body count courtesy of some very nasty killers. It’s a dark and twisty tale, although some aspects will need the reader to don their disbelief suspenders.
Both of those prove true. When she heads to their Croatian Island holiday home to sort out his things, a letter from Will indicates that he anticipated his death, and sends her hunting for an explanation. The letter was written six years earlier, at the same time as Will gave up his career as a forensic pathologist to become a property developer, and also when he bought a gun.
At their fully digitised house in Tisina, suddenly too many incidents endanger her life and she’s desperate to return to London, where a close friend doing her a favour has also come to grief. It’s starting to look like Will’s legacy is quite the poisoned chalice. Getting off the island, at first straightforward, unexpectedly becomes much more of a challenge, and going back to the UK may be the right thing to do, but is it safe?
Bryndza gives the reader a tightly plotted thriller with a hefty body count courtesy of some very nasty killers. It’s a dark and twisty tale, although some aspects will need the reader to don their disbelief suspenders.
November 17, 2023
Escritor que não desilude.
Adorei a narrativa, a história não perde o ritmo e por vezes sentia falta dar ao viver tão intensamente a leitura.
Adoro o autor e recomendo 😘😘❤🙏
A minha opinião vai sair em vídeo no Livros à Lareira com chá no YouTube!
Adorei a narrativa, a história não perde o ritmo e por vezes sentia falta dar ao viver tão intensamente a leitura.
Adoro o autor e recomendo 😘😘❤🙏
A minha opinião vai sair em vídeo no Livros à Lareira com chá no YouTube!
June 23, 2023
As a trauma medicine doctor, Maggie always strives to save a patient’s life. No matter how severe the injury, how complex the situation, she and her team are calm, focused, and decisive. But when her husband is wheeled into her London hospital’s Trauma Unit with a gunshot wound to the head, she freezes, unable to function as her team fights a losing battle with Will’s flatline.
Will committed suicide, she is told. Her happy, successful, loving husband killed himself using a gun he owned for six years and she was clueless. This information is almost as torturous as his loss; the stinging guilt, wondering what she missed. She stumbles through days with no family left to lean on, her wealthy mother-in-law distant and cold.
Maggie must wrap up their life, and travels to their vacation home on a remote island off Croatia where Will kept family heirlooms. It is winter, and the island is deserted but for its caretaker and his son. Her first night alone in the stunning cliff-side home, Maggie is jumpy. Guilt and questions about Will’s death plague her as she falls into a fitful sleep, a winter storm battering the island with wind and rain. Maggie awakes to sounds in her dark and isolated house. The power is off, and a quick check of her security app produces blank screens where camera images should be. Has someone broken in, or is she imagining things?
This psychological thriller has lightening fast pacing and fine plotting. The stormy and isolated setting supports the tension and is lovely to read about. The characterization is as strong and balanced as the scenery. Very well done. Thriller fans will find a great discovery in this author.
This book will be released on July 6, 2023. Thank you to Raven Street Publishing and NetGalley for providing this eARC.
Will committed suicide, she is told. Her happy, successful, loving husband killed himself using a gun he owned for six years and she was clueless. This information is almost as torturous as his loss; the stinging guilt, wondering what she missed. She stumbles through days with no family left to lean on, her wealthy mother-in-law distant and cold.
Maggie must wrap up their life, and travels to their vacation home on a remote island off Croatia where Will kept family heirlooms. It is winter, and the island is deserted but for its caretaker and his son. Her first night alone in the stunning cliff-side home, Maggie is jumpy. Guilt and questions about Will’s death plague her as she falls into a fitful sleep, a winter storm battering the island with wind and rain. Maggie awakes to sounds in her dark and isolated house. The power is off, and a quick check of her security app produces blank screens where camera images should be. Has someone broken in, or is she imagining things?
This psychological thriller has lightening fast pacing and fine plotting. The stormy and isolated setting supports the tension and is lovely to read about. The characterization is as strong and balanced as the scenery. Very well done. Thriller fans will find a great discovery in this author.
This book will be released on July 6, 2023. Thank you to Raven Street Publishing and NetGalley for providing this eARC.
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