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Breaking Silence
Silence is like easily broken.
The first time Claire and Megan Deveraux receive a cryptic text from the anonymous “AMZ”, they decide it’s a sophisticated scam. But when further evidence of a long-lost sibling starts to add up, Claire begins to wonder whether there is merit to AMZ’s wild claims...or just photoshop and dumb luck?
As the sisters weigh up the risks of pursuing a ruthless blackmailer’s trail, another victim is scrambling to keep his secret safe, whatever the cost. Because no amount of money can make a man bulletproof...
From the streets of Paris to Texan suburbia, Breaking Silence cracks open a nail-biting mystery that spans decades — and the globe.
The first time Claire and Megan Deveraux receive a cryptic text from the anonymous “AMZ”, they decide it’s a sophisticated scam. But when further evidence of a long-lost sibling starts to add up, Claire begins to wonder whether there is merit to AMZ’s wild claims...or just photoshop and dumb luck?
As the sisters weigh up the risks of pursuing a ruthless blackmailer’s trail, another victim is scrambling to keep his secret safe, whatever the cost. Because no amount of money can make a man bulletproof...
From the streets of Paris to Texan suburbia, Breaking Silence cracks open a nail-biting mystery that spans decades — and the globe.
270 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 29, 2024
About the author
Alan Brenham
40 books111 followersAlan Brenham is the pseudonym of Alan Behr, an American author and attorney.
He served as a law enforcement officer before earning a law degree from Baylor University and worked as a prosecutor and criminal defense attorney for twenty-two years.
Alan began his writing craft by studying novels by Michael McGarrity, James Hayman, and Michael Connelly.
He has authored ten crime fiction novels. Alan and his wife, Lillian, currently live in the Central Texas area.
He served as a law enforcement officer before earning a law degree from Baylor University and worked as a prosecutor and criminal defense attorney for twenty-two years.
Alan began his writing craft by studying novels by Michael McGarrity, James Hayman, and Michael Connelly.
He has authored ten crime fiction novels. Alan and his wife, Lillian, currently live in the Central Texas area.
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Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews
July 19, 2024
In “Breaking Silence” by Alan Brenham, Claire and Megan Deveraux are living in Paris working at the American Embassy, and trying to move on after all they’ve had to endure in the past few years. The first time they receive an anonymous text from “AMZ” claiming they have another brother, they figure it’s just a scam. They grew up as triplets, but their brother Boyd was recently killed when trouble came knocking. But now, AMZ keeps texting them with photographic evidence that proves they are actually quadruplets. The twins think it’s all part of a blackmail scam but with their adoptive and birth parents also gone, Claire is determined to find out the truth regardless of where it takes them.
Meanwhile in Texas, 55-year-old Henry Burrell has been keeping a secret for the last 28 years. When his wife lost the baby they were desperate to have, he did the unthinkable to keep her happy. Now that secret has come back to haunt him in the form of threatening texts from AMZ, who claims to know the truth and demands $50,000 in cash in exchange for not going to the police with the evidence. Henry knows it’s a long shot, but he has no choice but to pay. So begins a mystery decades in the making that will force a man to confront his past and alter two young women’s lives in ways they never saw coming.
Claire and Megan Deveraux are back in the third book of The Claire Deveraux series, and they are no strangers to mystery or dangerous characters. In “Breaking Silence,” Alan Brenham gives readers a fascinating story of suspense and mystery set against the backdrop of suburban Texas and the bright lights of Paris. They are both strong and independent, but Claire is persistent and wants the truth, while Megan just wants to get back to a normal life. While their lives are slowly coming together, Henry’s life is coming apart as his carefully laid-out lies are collapsing around him. He keeps getting in deeper and deeper, digging his own grave while still telling himself that he did the right thing even after his wife Sarah finds out the truth and confronts him.
Burrell went to his home office and closed the door. Feeling the noose tightening, he pondered all of his options. Time was running out. Something had to be done.
I was drawn to this novel because I have read the first two books in the series and Claire has become one of my favorite characters. As a deaf character, she’s trying to live a normal life, but when faced with adversity, she is relentless and fearless. After the first sentence I was hooked and couldn’t wait to dive into their new adventure:
Claire read the text and dropped the phone like it was hot lava.
Unearthing family secrets has become a way of life for the twins and that takes them from one country to another in search of answers.
This fast-paced mystery thriller combines a fascinating narrative with personal drama and the unrelenting pursuit of the truth. The characters are deeply developed, each with their own demons to battle, making them relatable and compelling. Henry’s character is especially complex because even as he struggles with guilt and loss, he refuses to give in. I felt sorry for him in the beginning, but when does the end justify the means? The language is vividly descriptive and makes the action come alive:
The twins stared at the pair silently, disbelief washing over their face like a breaking wave.
Overall, Alan Brenham’s “Breaking Silence” is more than a mystery thriller; it offers an examination of the human psyche with themes of family, forgiveness, morality, and identity. Brenham’s writing is sharp and engaging, keeping readers on edge with unexpected twists and turns. It is recommended for fans of thought-provoking international mystery novels and suspense thrillers featuring strong female characters.
Claire watched wide-eyed as their car went airborne down the embankment. She grunted when the right front of their car slammed into the ground like a missile. That impact sent shock waves coursing through her body.
Meanwhile in Texas, 55-year-old Henry Burrell has been keeping a secret for the last 28 years. When his wife lost the baby they were desperate to have, he did the unthinkable to keep her happy. Now that secret has come back to haunt him in the form of threatening texts from AMZ, who claims to know the truth and demands $50,000 in cash in exchange for not going to the police with the evidence. Henry knows it’s a long shot, but he has no choice but to pay. So begins a mystery decades in the making that will force a man to confront his past and alter two young women’s lives in ways they never saw coming.
Claire and Megan Deveraux are back in the third book of The Claire Deveraux series, and they are no strangers to mystery or dangerous characters. In “Breaking Silence,” Alan Brenham gives readers a fascinating story of suspense and mystery set against the backdrop of suburban Texas and the bright lights of Paris. They are both strong and independent, but Claire is persistent and wants the truth, while Megan just wants to get back to a normal life. While their lives are slowly coming together, Henry’s life is coming apart as his carefully laid-out lies are collapsing around him. He keeps getting in deeper and deeper, digging his own grave while still telling himself that he did the right thing even after his wife Sarah finds out the truth and confronts him.
Burrell went to his home office and closed the door. Feeling the noose tightening, he pondered all of his options. Time was running out. Something had to be done.
I was drawn to this novel because I have read the first two books in the series and Claire has become one of my favorite characters. As a deaf character, she’s trying to live a normal life, but when faced with adversity, she is relentless and fearless. After the first sentence I was hooked and couldn’t wait to dive into their new adventure:
Claire read the text and dropped the phone like it was hot lava.
Unearthing family secrets has become a way of life for the twins and that takes them from one country to another in search of answers.
This fast-paced mystery thriller combines a fascinating narrative with personal drama and the unrelenting pursuit of the truth. The characters are deeply developed, each with their own demons to battle, making them relatable and compelling. Henry’s character is especially complex because even as he struggles with guilt and loss, he refuses to give in. I felt sorry for him in the beginning, but when does the end justify the means? The language is vividly descriptive and makes the action come alive:
The twins stared at the pair silently, disbelief washing over their face like a breaking wave.
Overall, Alan Brenham’s “Breaking Silence” is more than a mystery thriller; it offers an examination of the human psyche with themes of family, forgiveness, morality, and identity. Brenham’s writing is sharp and engaging, keeping readers on edge with unexpected twists and turns. It is recommended for fans of thought-provoking international mystery novels and suspense thrillers featuring strong female characters.
Claire watched wide-eyed as their car went airborne down the embankment. She grunted when the right front of their car slammed into the ground like a missile. That impact sent shock waves coursing through her body.
July 25, 2024
I read this whole series this week and was hooked with each book. In this one, Claire and her sister Megan are sent anonymous texts claiming they have a brother they know nothing about. The story races from Paris to Ft. Worth and back as they investigate. Matters are complicated when a hit man is hired to kill them to keep this a hidden secret. Loved it!
August 8, 2024
In Breaking Silence, by Alan Brenham, sisters Claire and Megan Deveraux initially dismiss a mysterious message from "AMZ" as a scam. However, as evidence suggesting the existence of a forgotten sibling mounts, Claire begins to question their skepticism. Their pursuit of the truth leads them into a dangerous chase involving a relentless blackmailer and a secretive victim determined to protect his hidden past. Spanning from the charm of Paris to the tranquility of a Texas suburb, this intense thriller uncovers a decades-old enigma with global ramifications.
This book is a riveting thriller that expertly blends intrigue with deep, character-driven storytelling. One of its most compelling aspects is the authenticity of its characters, particularly Claire and Megan Deveraux. Brenham depicts these sisters with remarkable nuance and depth, making them feel like real individuals ensnared in a gripping mystery. Their vividly portrayed personalities and emotionally resonant interactions make their journey both captivating and relatable, enhancing overall engagement with the story.
Brenham’s writing style further elevates the narrative. His prose is sharp and evocative, skillfully capturing the tension and urgency of the plot while also providing lush, detailed descriptions that bring the settings to life. The contrast between the glamorous, bustling streets of Paris and the tranquil, subdued Texan suburbia is vividly rendered, adding layers of atmosphere to the story. This dichotomy enhances the reader’s immersion in both the high-stakes action and the quieter, more intimate moments. The plot is intricately woven, with each twist and turn contributing to a larger, suspenseful puzzle. Brenham’s methodical revelation of information keeps readers on the edge of their seats, making the stakes feel incredibly high. The suspense builds effectively, maintaining a strong sense of momentum throughout. I do feel there are moments where the pacing slows slightly. These sections, while rich in character development and plot detail, seem to lack the brisk rhythm of the rest of the narrative--a pace that keeps readers on their toes.
Breaking Silence, by Alan Brenham, is a compelling thriller that masterfully combines intricate plotting with rich, character-driven storytelling. Despite occasional pacing issues, its authentic characters, evocative writing, and high-stakes suspense make it a memorable and engaging read. Fans of intense, well-crafted mysteries will find much to appreciate in this gripping novel.
This book is a riveting thriller that expertly blends intrigue with deep, character-driven storytelling. One of its most compelling aspects is the authenticity of its characters, particularly Claire and Megan Deveraux. Brenham depicts these sisters with remarkable nuance and depth, making them feel like real individuals ensnared in a gripping mystery. Their vividly portrayed personalities and emotionally resonant interactions make their journey both captivating and relatable, enhancing overall engagement with the story.
Brenham’s writing style further elevates the narrative. His prose is sharp and evocative, skillfully capturing the tension and urgency of the plot while also providing lush, detailed descriptions that bring the settings to life. The contrast between the glamorous, bustling streets of Paris and the tranquil, subdued Texan suburbia is vividly rendered, adding layers of atmosphere to the story. This dichotomy enhances the reader’s immersion in both the high-stakes action and the quieter, more intimate moments. The plot is intricately woven, with each twist and turn contributing to a larger, suspenseful puzzle. Brenham’s methodical revelation of information keeps readers on the edge of their seats, making the stakes feel incredibly high. The suspense builds effectively, maintaining a strong sense of momentum throughout. I do feel there are moments where the pacing slows slightly. These sections, while rich in character development and plot detail, seem to lack the brisk rhythm of the rest of the narrative--a pace that keeps readers on their toes.
Breaking Silence, by Alan Brenham, is a compelling thriller that masterfully combines intricate plotting with rich, character-driven storytelling. Despite occasional pacing issues, its authentic characters, evocative writing, and high-stakes suspense make it a memorable and engaging read. Fans of intense, well-crafted mysteries will find much to appreciate in this gripping novel.
June 30, 2024
Book 3 in Alan Brenham’s Claire Deveraux series begins in France, as the title character receives a potentially life-changing text: “You and your sister are two of a set of quadruplets.” The anonymous sender, AMZ, sends the same text to her identical twin sister, Megan. But the pair, hardened by a lifetime of misfortune, shrug it off as nonsense and head out to enjoy a delicious dinner together.
But the Deverauxs aren’t AMZ’s only targets. In Texas, 55-year-old Henry Burrell receives a ransom text, demanding $50,000 in exchange for staying quiet about how Burrell “acquired” his son – a claim that could easily put him in prison. Unlike the Deverauxs, Henry knows that someone has finally uncovered a dark secret that he’s kept for close to three decades. He quickly caves, insisting that he needs a week to gather the funds.
Through a series of subsequent texts, Brenham gradually reveals the apparent biological connection between the Deveraux sisters and Burrell. While the sisters dismiss AMZ’s claims for as long as humanly possible, they soon admit that their family history is “muddy” (see Brenham’s Every Silent Thing and Never Say a Word to see just how dark it truly is). A photograph of a man who bears a striking resemblance, as well as other details, prompt them to contact Henry and his wife, Sarah.
It’s a decision they may soon regret. Desperate Henry, who has been quickly amassing a list of potential suspects, begins to imagine that the twins may be working with AMZ: “As long as those twins were alive, both he and Sarah were in serious jeopardy.”
As usual, Brenham wastes no time putting his characters into dangerous situations, and his economical prose fast-tracks the experience. But what sets Breaking Silence apart from his other books is its shocking reveal. Few readers will see AMZ’s identity coming, and when it does, it’s a devastating jaw-dropper with emotional resonance and dire consequences for all characters.
Bonus points to Brenham for cleverly demonstrating just how much damage can be done with a phone number and a single nugget of sensitive information.
But the Deverauxs aren’t AMZ’s only targets. In Texas, 55-year-old Henry Burrell receives a ransom text, demanding $50,000 in exchange for staying quiet about how Burrell “acquired” his son – a claim that could easily put him in prison. Unlike the Deverauxs, Henry knows that someone has finally uncovered a dark secret that he’s kept for close to three decades. He quickly caves, insisting that he needs a week to gather the funds.
Through a series of subsequent texts, Brenham gradually reveals the apparent biological connection between the Deveraux sisters and Burrell. While the sisters dismiss AMZ’s claims for as long as humanly possible, they soon admit that their family history is “muddy” (see Brenham’s Every Silent Thing and Never Say a Word to see just how dark it truly is). A photograph of a man who bears a striking resemblance, as well as other details, prompt them to contact Henry and his wife, Sarah.
It’s a decision they may soon regret. Desperate Henry, who has been quickly amassing a list of potential suspects, begins to imagine that the twins may be working with AMZ: “As long as those twins were alive, both he and Sarah were in serious jeopardy.”
As usual, Brenham wastes no time putting his characters into dangerous situations, and his economical prose fast-tracks the experience. But what sets Breaking Silence apart from his other books is its shocking reveal. Few readers will see AMZ’s identity coming, and when it does, it’s a devastating jaw-dropper with emotional resonance and dire consequences for all characters.
Bonus points to Brenham for cleverly demonstrating just how much damage can be done with a phone number and a single nugget of sensitive information.
July 12, 2024
Claire and twin sister Megan Deveraux are back in the third installment of the series. The deaf main character we’ve come to enjoy is once again trying to live a life of normalcy as AMZ uproots everything Claire thought she knew about her family. An anonymous text announces another brother Claire and Megan didn’t know they had, while AMZ simultaneously blackmails the kidnapper that his 28-year secret may be revealed.
Author Alan Brenham writes his series leads with such attention to detail, making them relatable and yet extraordinary, and Claire Deveraux is certainly one of my favorites. As the youngest deputy in the foreign service, living abroad, and navigating the world without hearing, she’s incredible and inspiring. Readers can’t help but root for her as she takes on challenge after challenge, set back upon set back, and continues to come out the other side.
Brenham’s latest, “Breaking Silence,” reads successfully as a standalone despite being the third in the series. There is enough background from the previous experiences and novels that it maintains ample independence from the prior events, allowing readers to pick this series up at book three and fall in love with Brenham’s exquisite writing.
In arguably his best work of fiction yet, Claire travels between Paris and Texas as the kidnapper stops at nothing to protect his stolen family.
Author Alan Brenham writes his series leads with such attention to detail, making them relatable and yet extraordinary, and Claire Deveraux is certainly one of my favorites. As the youngest deputy in the foreign service, living abroad, and navigating the world without hearing, she’s incredible and inspiring. Readers can’t help but root for her as she takes on challenge after challenge, set back upon set back, and continues to come out the other side.
Brenham’s latest, “Breaking Silence,” reads successfully as a standalone despite being the third in the series. There is enough background from the previous experiences and novels that it maintains ample independence from the prior events, allowing readers to pick this series up at book three and fall in love with Brenham’s exquisite writing.
In arguably his best work of fiction yet, Claire travels between Paris and Texas as the kidnapper stops at nothing to protect his stolen family.
Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews