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Mute
If Wes is such a quiet man - mute from birth, in fact - why does someone try to murder him one Friday night in the office toilet? Shaken, and dismissed by the police for reasons he doesn't understand, he goes on the run. But Keiran, his would-be killer and member of a survivalist cult, is not giving up, and tries to get to Wes through his wife, Alex. Though kept apart, Wes and Alex must find out what has happened and why. Not an easy task when the real reason is unknown even to Keiran himself ... Mute is a darkly comic thriller in the spirit of Graham Greene and the Coen brothers.
300 pages, Paperback
Published September 27, 2023
13 people want to read
About the author
Richard Salsbury
5 books10 followersRichard Salsbury is a novelist and award-winning short story writer based in the south of England. His work has appeared in Artificium, Flash Fiction Magazine, World Wide Writers, Portsmouth News, the Fairlight Books website and on BBC Radio. He is an editor and website designer for environmental writing project Pens of the Earth. He also plays the guitar and brews his own beer.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
November 16, 2023
A really enjoyable read.
I was intrigued by the premise, where a man named Wes, who is mute, goes into a police station and tries to convince the officers that someone tried to kill him a few hours prior. What ensues is a comedic thriller, as Wes tries to stay alive whilst tracking down the man who wanted him out of the picture.
The mutism is a clever touch, and Wes was a brilliant character, making me laugh out loud many times with his (written) quips.
The plot becomes rather complex, but not inaccessible at all.
A strong debut novel from Salsbury.
I was intrigued by the premise, where a man named Wes, who is mute, goes into a police station and tries to convince the officers that someone tried to kill him a few hours prior. What ensues is a comedic thriller, as Wes tries to stay alive whilst tracking down the man who wanted him out of the picture.
The mutism is a clever touch, and Wes was a brilliant character, making me laugh out loud many times with his (written) quips.
The plot becomes rather complex, but not inaccessible at all.
A strong debut novel from Salsbury.
November 21, 2023
This was an unexpected joy to read and a unique twist on my favourite genre.
As you know, I often go into books without fully reading the blurb!
With this one, the first line was enough to grab my attention!
You may know that I also often choose a book from the front cover ....well this cover is very deceptive, as it could quite as easily have been a non-fiction book about limiting screen-time ...which now knowing the humour of this work, I hope that it will amuse the author (and you when you read it) as much as it did me!
You could not get further from this!!
The premise of this book is your perfect thriller - someone is after Wes - they tried to kill him in the office toilet!
The only problem is that Wes is mute and can't convey any of this to the police!
I have never read a book with a similar main character and the fact that Wes is mute just added such a different layer to this one.
I really felt for him in certain moments as things could have been so easily fixed had he been able to talk - but at the same time this really got me thinking about how we see others and how people judge others without really fully understanding their lives.
I loved that we followed a clear timeline with each day signposted.
I also love a dual pov thriller. I'm obsessed with understanding how the characters see the same events, what they're thinking and feeling etc - so getting to see the story from the different view points really helped us to dig into their minds for a time.
This was a gripping read and full of action - but was also interspersed with humour too which just took the edge of that on edge feeling and had me laughing at certain events.
Such a great read and so cleverly written - I can't believe that this is a debut and really hope that there will be many more books to follow!!
As you know, I often go into books without fully reading the blurb!
With this one, the first line was enough to grab my attention!
You may know that I also often choose a book from the front cover ....well this cover is very deceptive, as it could quite as easily have been a non-fiction book about limiting screen-time ...which now knowing the humour of this work, I hope that it will amuse the author (and you when you read it) as much as it did me!
You could not get further from this!!
The premise of this book is your perfect thriller - someone is after Wes - they tried to kill him in the office toilet!
The only problem is that Wes is mute and can't convey any of this to the police!
I have never read a book with a similar main character and the fact that Wes is mute just added such a different layer to this one.
I really felt for him in certain moments as things could have been so easily fixed had he been able to talk - but at the same time this really got me thinking about how we see others and how people judge others without really fully understanding their lives.
I loved that we followed a clear timeline with each day signposted.
I also love a dual pov thriller. I'm obsessed with understanding how the characters see the same events, what they're thinking and feeling etc - so getting to see the story from the different view points really helped us to dig into their minds for a time.
This was a gripping read and full of action - but was also interspersed with humour too which just took the edge of that on edge feeling and had me laughing at certain events.
Such a great read and so cleverly written - I can't believe that this is a debut and really hope that there will be many more books to follow!!
November 16, 2023
My Thoughts: I’m going to be honest, I didn’t really know what to expect going into this story l, I have a habit of briefly reading the synopsis and stopping as soon as I see something that appeals to me.
This one was brilliant, the fact that the main character was mute added a new element to the story that not only made it more enjoyable but at certain points made it more frustrating because some situations could have been avoided if he’d just been able to talk 🤣
There was so many layers to this story that you never knew what was coming next and I absolutely loved that, I was kept on my toes throughout!
Lots of fun characters that were strong and all willing to do what you was necessary to get to the bottom of the mystery.
Part comedy, part action and part thriller, this was very different to anything I’d read before, it had me utterly engrossed throughout. I will definitely be looking out for other books by Richard in the future!
🐧🩷
This one was brilliant, the fact that the main character was mute added a new element to the story that not only made it more enjoyable but at certain points made it more frustrating because some situations could have been avoided if he’d just been able to talk 🤣
There was so many layers to this story that you never knew what was coming next and I absolutely loved that, I was kept on my toes throughout!
Lots of fun characters that were strong and all willing to do what you was necessary to get to the bottom of the mystery.
Part comedy, part action and part thriller, this was very different to anything I’d read before, it had me utterly engrossed throughout. I will definitely be looking out for other books by Richard in the future!
🐧🩷
October 10, 2023
Not at all my usual sort of read, I nonetheless thoroughly enjoyed Mute. I found it very well written, with great characterisation and an exciting and intriguing narrative. The plot was gripping, but also complex and clever, and full of twists and turns. I should say that I found the plot a little fantastical at times, given the “ordinariness” of the characters and the extraordinariness of some of their actions. However, this by no means hindered my enjoyment of the story.
I was very taken with the principal character, Wes, the “mute”, whose inability to speak proved no hindrance to his resourcefulness and ingenuity in tackling his enemies. I also really warmed to his quick-witted and very likeable wife, Alex. Wes was the principal protagonist in the story, but the principal antagonist, Keiran, was also a character I found myself rooting for, in his confusion and his struggle to understand the truth of his situation.
Mute is described as a “darkly comic thriller”, and I would agree. The elements of cult and conspiracy in the plot were certainly worrying, the plot itself was a gripping page-turner, and it was very much leavened with some brilliant touches of humour.
The subtitle to Mute is “A Strathurst Novel”, which suggests that this is the first of a series or collection of such darkly comic thrillers. I do hope so and look forward to reading more from Richard Salsbury.
I was very taken with the principal character, Wes, the “mute”, whose inability to speak proved no hindrance to his resourcefulness and ingenuity in tackling his enemies. I also really warmed to his quick-witted and very likeable wife, Alex. Wes was the principal protagonist in the story, but the principal antagonist, Keiran, was also a character I found myself rooting for, in his confusion and his struggle to understand the truth of his situation.
Mute is described as a “darkly comic thriller”, and I would agree. The elements of cult and conspiracy in the plot were certainly worrying, the plot itself was a gripping page-turner, and it was very much leavened with some brilliant touches of humour.
The subtitle to Mute is “A Strathurst Novel”, which suggests that this is the first of a series or collection of such darkly comic thrillers. I do hope so and look forward to reading more from Richard Salsbury.
July 2, 2025
When I had finished reading Mute I was reminded of the words of Roald Dahl in The Giraffe and the Pelly and Me. He concludes the story with the lines, "All you do is to look at a page in this book because that's where we always will be, no book ever ends etc" I read a library copy of Mute, but will be buying my own now so that I reacquaint myself with Wes from time to time just as Roald Dahl suggests. Why? Well make no mistake the author has created a strong character who is very much to be admired. Being non-verbal from birth hasn’t stopped him from owning a small IT business, being married and being an intelligent and challenging blogger, and during the course of the novel Wes becomes ever more resourceful in so many respects as his fight for survival and the truth goes on. It seems a shame that this was his first and probably last appearance in print. He isn't alone when it comes to strong, believable characters in this book (such as Keiran), but Wes is clearly the star here.
I found this book to be compelling reading from beginning to end. The way in which the author addresses some serious, perhaps sinister issues in society is to be much admired. He also leaves things to the reader's imagination to a certain extent. I suspect that a cynical person like myself will identify with much of what is mentioned in this novel as the story develops, while others may be in denial that such things can take place, perhaps some may not perceptive enough to acknowledge that such things can happen and others may just be blissfully unaware.
So to conclude this is a fine debut novel from the author which with its main plot and characters could potentially be the basis of a mini-series or film. I'm just looking forward to reading Gifts of Anger soon. And of course a fond farewell to Wes – nice to have met you!
I found this book to be compelling reading from beginning to end. The way in which the author addresses some serious, perhaps sinister issues in society is to be much admired. He also leaves things to the reader's imagination to a certain extent. I suspect that a cynical person like myself will identify with much of what is mentioned in this novel as the story develops, while others may be in denial that such things can take place, perhaps some may not perceptive enough to acknowledge that such things can happen and others may just be blissfully unaware.
So to conclude this is a fine debut novel from the author which with its main plot and characters could potentially be the basis of a mini-series or film. I'm just looking forward to reading Gifts of Anger soon. And of course a fond farewell to Wes – nice to have met you!
November 22, 2023
The debut novel Mute from Richard Salsbury is definitely an interesting concept and I am pleased that I was given the chance to read and review. Thank you to the publisher, author and to Anne the tour organiser for this opportunity.
Mute the first few lines had me hooked and it kind of felt a bit like my life. I am a blogger and a martial artist so it resonated with me as the character felt similar.
The story concept was amazing and I really enjoyed the fact that the story didn't just jump right in but gave you the buildup that you craved to push the story to the best outcome.
The mental health aspect of this book is eye opening especially with a non-verbal adult. This isn't something I have never dealt with before so it is eye opening.
The issue that I see with this book is that there are so many characters and they are hard to keep track of.
Once the story begins while it can be confusing it is also very solid. I like little details from the past and it shows just how well thought out this book is.
I find the story very good and fun to read as you get to meet some great characters that could end up with more books depending on how this story ends. For instance would love to see Wes story from when he was young as there seems to be so much more to him.
One thing I love is the cult angle as we know how cults can twist things so that you won't think for yourself and use their judgement. Seeing this in some ways you feel sorry for those who are caught up in their web of lies.
This had made the book to me even better since I love seeing the psychological aspects so much. It reminds me of when I was in college and taking psychology and sociology electives and learning things about cults and learning about our own needs and wants.
For a debut novel I always expect less and this book was a huge surprise as to how good it was. The characters while there are many youn get to see a huge part of what they are made of and it tends to make the book even better. I am more into the characters than the story for most books.
A great read with a strong story and powerful characters. I feel when you come in on a debut novelist you can grow with the author from book to book and see how the stories and characters progress as they are meant to. When reading later on I feel that I need to catch up and that I am missing things. I know that it's all in my mind but I also love the anticipation of waiting and the thrill when the next installment of a book comes out.
I would like to Thank the author Richard Salsbury and the publishing and Anne Cater for the advanced reader copy and for allowing me to take part in this blogtour
@rjsalsbury @randomttours #mute #aStrathurstnovel
Mute the first few lines had me hooked and it kind of felt a bit like my life. I am a blogger and a martial artist so it resonated with me as the character felt similar.
The story concept was amazing and I really enjoyed the fact that the story didn't just jump right in but gave you the buildup that you craved to push the story to the best outcome.
The mental health aspect of this book is eye opening especially with a non-verbal adult. This isn't something I have never dealt with before so it is eye opening.
The issue that I see with this book is that there are so many characters and they are hard to keep track of.
Once the story begins while it can be confusing it is also very solid. I like little details from the past and it shows just how well thought out this book is.
I find the story very good and fun to read as you get to meet some great characters that could end up with more books depending on how this story ends. For instance would love to see Wes story from when he was young as there seems to be so much more to him.
One thing I love is the cult angle as we know how cults can twist things so that you won't think for yourself and use their judgement. Seeing this in some ways you feel sorry for those who are caught up in their web of lies.
This had made the book to me even better since I love seeing the psychological aspects so much. It reminds me of when I was in college and taking psychology and sociology electives and learning things about cults and learning about our own needs and wants.
For a debut novel I always expect less and this book was a huge surprise as to how good it was. The characters while there are many youn get to see a huge part of what they are made of and it tends to make the book even better. I am more into the characters than the story for most books.
A great read with a strong story and powerful characters. I feel when you come in on a debut novelist you can grow with the author from book to book and see how the stories and characters progress as they are meant to. When reading later on I feel that I need to catch up and that I am missing things. I know that it's all in my mind but I also love the anticipation of waiting and the thrill when the next installment of a book comes out.
I would like to Thank the author Richard Salsbury and the publishing and Anne Cater for the advanced reader copy and for allowing me to take part in this blogtour
@rjsalsbury @randomttours #mute #aStrathurstnovel
November 21, 2023
What an absolutely unique and superbly written book! I was completely drawn in by the blurb and just how unique the book sounded. I knew I had to dive in and get a handle on this brilliant read, but little did I know just how hooked I would be.
The book starts off well, with a really exciting attempt and the blurry details behind who and why really get you on the edge of your seat, wanting to know all the details behind it and why exactly him. Then you get a twist thrown your way and the killer starts to target our main character’s loved ones to get to them. Again, why and for what reasons? As soon as we think we might know we are left wondering again and then you start to think that maybe things aren’t exactly as they seem, in Wes’ world and life.
Overall, the flow of the book is really good and has a great way of keeping you wanting more. I loved the characters and their unique nature as well as the way the the author brought the whole story to life.
The book starts off well, with a really exciting attempt and the blurry details behind who and why really get you on the edge of your seat, wanting to know all the details behind it and why exactly him. Then you get a twist thrown your way and the killer starts to target our main character’s loved ones to get to them. Again, why and for what reasons? As soon as we think we might know we are left wondering again and then you start to think that maybe things aren’t exactly as they seem, in Wes’ world and life.
Overall, the flow of the book is really good and has a great way of keeping you wanting more. I loved the characters and their unique nature as well as the way the the author brought the whole story to life.
January 2, 2024
A great, compelling read. The complex plot is bolstered by a cast of well developed characters.
Mute is a well-paced thriller with a serious, contemplative underpinning. Wes, the main character, is pursued relentlessly for reasons he initially doesn't understand. His journey to the truth, complicated by the fact that he is mute, takes him right into the heart and dark psychology of a cult called Darwin's Army. The novel explores positions of power within the cult hierarchy, and the ways in which a corrosive ideology influences and spreads from one person to the next. Wes' necessity to communicate by means other than speaking really made me consider the broader implications of our communication today. Wes' ability to seek out ways to express himself showed me his resilience and ability to face the adversity he encounters.
Mute is definitely for those who like a gripping plot that doesn't shy away from the serious issues of our time. Would recommend to all.
Mute is a well-paced thriller with a serious, contemplative underpinning. Wes, the main character, is pursued relentlessly for reasons he initially doesn't understand. His journey to the truth, complicated by the fact that he is mute, takes him right into the heart and dark psychology of a cult called Darwin's Army. The novel explores positions of power within the cult hierarchy, and the ways in which a corrosive ideology influences and spreads from one person to the next. Wes' necessity to communicate by means other than speaking really made me consider the broader implications of our communication today. Wes' ability to seek out ways to express himself showed me his resilience and ability to face the adversity he encounters.
Mute is definitely for those who like a gripping plot that doesn't shy away from the serious issues of our time. Would recommend to all.
November 16, 2023
Mute by Richard Salsbury is a mystery thriller with an exciting plot. The story is surely very different with a mute character. But, as a reader you are not going to feel it till you reach halfway through the book. The plot is slow building the excitement in the readers. Story has multiple POV's but that would not confuse a reader. The author's writing style is also commendable. It was just I am not a very much fan of slow plots. And, I had to wait a lot for something to happen. Although, the climax was interesting and satisfying. Still the book is appealing and thrilling and worth a one time read. The book deserves 4 stars and thanks to Random Things Tours for providing me with an opportunity to read and review the book.
Read more on https://bibliophileverse.blogspot.com...
Read more on https://bibliophileverse.blogspot.com...
November 23, 2023
I loved this book! Our main character Wes, despite. being mute had so much charisma & was quite comical at times! I did feel for him with his first page message that had to be displayed to everyone upon meeting.
The storyline was just brilliant, I loved how it all unfolded and thought it was so clever how it was written. I enjoyed the fact that the book was 'split' into days and it is surprising how much happened in such a short space of time.
I was hooked pretty quickly and couldn't put it down as I needed to know what was going to happen as I honestly had no clue how this book was going to end. I also really enjoyed getting to know our non-main characters which included Wes's wife Alex, best friend Tom and even to some degree Keiran who was our guy out to get Wes!
I liked the fact that there was some humour thrown in fro our main characters but also some of the non-lead characters such as Clive, it really balanced the book out. I did feel sorry for Wes though as he already has no voice but then being cut off from everyone was just so sad.
I really enjoyed the ending and thought it was fabulous, it did make me a little sad though as I know that I won't be hearing more from them which makes me sad and is always a telling sign of how much I enjoyed a book
The storyline was just brilliant, I loved how it all unfolded and thought it was so clever how it was written. I enjoyed the fact that the book was 'split' into days and it is surprising how much happened in such a short space of time.
I was hooked pretty quickly and couldn't put it down as I needed to know what was going to happen as I honestly had no clue how this book was going to end. I also really enjoyed getting to know our non-main characters which included Wes's wife Alex, best friend Tom and even to some degree Keiran who was our guy out to get Wes!
I liked the fact that there was some humour thrown in fro our main characters but also some of the non-lead characters such as Clive, it really balanced the book out. I did feel sorry for Wes though as he already has no voice but then being cut off from everyone was just so sad.
I really enjoyed the ending and thought it was fabulous, it did make me a little sad though as I know that I won't be hearing more from them which makes me sad and is always a telling sign of how much I enjoyed a book
November 26, 2023
Book Review 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Mute
His debut novel - Richard Salsbury
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I found the MC being a mute an exciting change, having never before read any book with a MC who couldn't talk.
The story is both engaging and fast-paced. The author has a sense of humour, which slithers into the story and had me laughing out loud, causing my partner much amusement.
The MC had an attempt on his life, and he must stay alive while investigating his enemy.
The story is clever and complex, highlighting current issues surrounding data collection and underground organisations.
Highly recommend 👌.
Mute
His debut novel - Richard Salsbury
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I found the MC being a mute an exciting change, having never before read any book with a MC who couldn't talk.
The story is both engaging and fast-paced. The author has a sense of humour, which slithers into the story and had me laughing out loud, causing my partner much amusement.
The MC had an attempt on his life, and he must stay alive while investigating his enemy.
The story is clever and complex, highlighting current issues surrounding data collection and underground organisations.
Highly recommend 👌.
February 24, 2024
I very much enjoyed this debut novel by Richard Salsbury - it runs with a richly dark humour that makes it a joy to read. Our central protagonist, Wes, is mute - and we are given a fabulous insight into the frustrating and claustrophobic challenges of trying to make yourself understood in a world without speech, when somebody makes an attempt on his life and he struggles to get the police to take his accusations seriously. The compelling narrative quickly draws you in and you swiftly become invested in Wes’ fate. I would thoroughly recommend it.
March 12, 2025
If you're looking for an action packed thriller with a difference, including a great cast of characters, (the hunted and hunters alike), a breakneck chase around the country and a wild conspiracy theory, this is it. It took a lot of willpower not to flip to the back of the book to make sure Wes, Kate and Tom were ok. But it wasn't only the heroes who got to me, even the would be killers had a back story. Nothing's black and white in this book. It made me laugh and gasp at the same time. Oh yes, and the main character is mute! Read it!
November 28, 2023
Mute, Richard Salsbury’s debut novel, is quite simply one of the best three or four books I’ve read this year and deserves to find the sort of readership that indie authors can unfortunately only dream about. It’s an original, compelling and beautifully written page turner with thoroughly realistic characters, a clever premise and just enough dry, black humour. It looks great too. Everybody should put this on their To Be Read (Now) pile.
January 19, 2024
Salsbury writes a protagonist who is likeable, vulnerable, yet scarily capable - then bowls an insane sequence of challenges at him. This is the ingredient mix for a fine crime thriller and the author blends them to great effect. We follow Wes through pain and perplexity as the odds against him multiply, to the final twist. Definitely one to read.
December 8, 2023
A really compelling read. The tension built and I didn't want to put the book down. Well written and interesting characters. I would definitely recommend this book.
August 18, 2025
Wow what a brilliant first novel. Loved it. Amazing. Can’t wait for the next one.
What brilliant concept and just couldn’t put it down.
You have got to read it!
What brilliant concept and just couldn’t put it down.
You have got to read it!
November 22, 2023
Mute is a brilliant, fun read that's full of dark humour and comedic genius.
Having had someone try to murder him whilst he's sat on the loo, Wes has gone on the run. The premise of this was genius and Wes being a mute just added to the chaos of trying to catch the killer.
I loved Wes, he was such a funny guy with his witticisms and banter, and poor Kieran, our would be killer with absolutely no clue as to what's just happened. Brilliant characters that really brought the story alive.
Mute is the book that I'd love to see Simon Pegg and Nick Frost work their magic on for the big screen!
Having had someone try to murder him whilst he's sat on the loo, Wes has gone on the run. The premise of this was genius and Wes being a mute just added to the chaos of trying to catch the killer.
I loved Wes, he was such a funny guy with his witticisms and banter, and poor Kieran, our would be killer with absolutely no clue as to what's just happened. Brilliant characters that really brought the story alive.
Mute is the book that I'd love to see Simon Pegg and Nick Frost work their magic on for the big screen!
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews