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Silence
Trapped in a society where only perfection was accepted, Lily had lost her tongue. One day, a girl in a pink and green sweater appears on her doorstep, dangling an offer that she cannot refuse.
To get her life back, Lily follows Sweater Girl to the middle of the unforgiving City on the mountains. Haunted by the memories of happier days, she must overcome all odds in order to reclaim her missing tongue–and end her silence.
To get her life back, Lily follows Sweater Girl to the middle of the unforgiving City on the mountains. Haunted by the memories of happier days, she must overcome all odds in order to reclaim her missing tongue–and end her silence.
261 pages, Paperback
Published June 27, 2024
About the author
Che De Leon
1 book12 followersAuthor of award-winning debut novel, "Silence". Born in Manila, Philippines on April 2, 1987, Che De Leon is an aspiring Filipino writer with a Master of Fine Arts Creative Writing degree in De La Salle University Manila. She had also taken International Studies Major in Japanese for her bachelor’s degree from the same school.
Che is a voracious reader and consumer of different types of media: fiction, non-fiction, film, comics, video games, tabletop RPGs.
Che is a voracious reader and consumer of different types of media: fiction, non-fiction, film, comics, video games, tabletop RPGs.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
January 17, 2026
Silence is a dystopian novel where perfection or being "complete" was the only way to exist. It's set in a society where missing body parts makes you less than human.
We follow the story of Lily — an incomplete who had lost her tongue —as she journeys through the unforgiving city to get back what was taken from her.
The world building is dark and unsettling. The descriptions of certain places were both vivid and creepy.
I didn't expect the ending to be perfectly honest.
Let's just say this story isn't about survival, but more on reclaiming and reinventing your identity.
It's great for people who like dystopian novels and slow burn books.
The pay off has definitely got me asking questions on what's next for this world that Che De Leon has built.
We follow the story of Lily — an incomplete who had lost her tongue —as she journeys through the unforgiving city to get back what was taken from her.
The world building is dark and unsettling. The descriptions of certain places were both vivid and creepy.
I didn't expect the ending to be perfectly honest.
Let's just say this story isn't about survival, but more on reclaiming and reinventing your identity.
It's great for people who like dystopian novels and slow burn books.
The pay off has definitely got me asking questions on what's next for this world that Che De Leon has built.
February 25, 2025
Summary of review: I would read a book 2 of this.
The world and the settings rules are fairly unique, with promise of more elaboration in later additions to the story. There are some questions I have about the people's biology here, because it seems like they can just pop their body parts on and off at will, though some need to be cut off I guess from the unwilling. There doesn't appear to be any blood or recovery time to assimilate new body parts, and so on, basically ultra streamlined compared to what it would take to transplant body parts in our reality, so that's quite interesting to me.
Since body trafficking is an industry, I'd like to see more of its unique effects on the economy of the world. There are some aspects of the socio-economic impact of this type of reality that I felt made sense, and some that did not quite get there, but I feel holds promise if the conflicts of the world take more of a center stage.
The world and the settings rules are fairly unique, with promise of more elaboration in later additions to the story. There are some questions I have about the people's biology here, because it seems like they can just pop their body parts on and off at will, though some need to be cut off I guess from the unwilling. There doesn't appear to be any blood or recovery time to assimilate new body parts, and so on, basically ultra streamlined compared to what it would take to transplant body parts in our reality, so that's quite interesting to me.
Since body trafficking is an industry, I'd like to see more of its unique effects on the economy of the world. There are some aspects of the socio-economic impact of this type of reality that I felt made sense, and some that did not quite get there, but I feel holds promise if the conflicts of the world take more of a center stage.
March 7, 2025
This book has left me speechless at the end! Just when I thought I knew what was going to happen I would always have my jaw dropped to the floor with how unexpected the twist was every time. I had no clue what I was getting myself into when I started reading this book, but as the author has mentioned "read anything" and that's what I did. I read this book and was left in awe! The way the author wrote the book has always felt me feeling at the edge as I do not know what to expect anymore after so many unexpected twist in the story.
Do not be fooled by the cover, the story is not for the light-hearted as it contains topics such as: The book had the right amount of gore that personally does not make me feel 'icky', but rather enthralled at how the author writes them.
I think I kept telling myself that I will continue the book tomorrow, but every time I finished a chapter; I want to know more about what will happen that I end up finishing the book, and I felt so gutted at how it ended,
It's so hard to know who to root for in this story, as you will be forced to empathize and understand some of their point of view, and why they did what they did. Overall this is an amazing read, and if you want to be kept on your toes I definitely recommend this book to you! Great job and congratulations to the author for this amazing debut!
Do not be fooled by the cover, the story is not for the light-hearted as it contains topics such as: The book had the right amount of gore that personally does not make me feel 'icky', but rather enthralled at how the author writes them.
I think I kept telling myself that I will continue the book tomorrow, but every time I finished a chapter; I want to know more about what will happen that I end up finishing the book, and I felt so gutted at how it ended,
It's so hard to know who to root for in this story, as you will be forced to empathize and understand some of their point of view, and why they did what they did. Overall this is an amazing read, and if you want to be kept on your toes I definitely recommend this book to you! Great job and congratulations to the author for this amazing debut!
January 19, 2026
"I know what happened to you. You lost your tongue, didn't you? [...] I know who has it. Do you want it back?"
(pg. 35)
This novel was such a delightful surprise. I didn't have much expectations going into this since I hadn't heard that much about this book before, but I can happily say it surpassed all my expectations. Now I can say I've found another hidden gem in Philippine literature.
One of the things I loved the most about this book was its cleverly executed plot twist. The build-up was phenomenal. At first, I didn't understand the significance of the flashbacks, but after reading the plot twist, it all makes sense. Each seemingly unnecessary detail left breadcrumbs that would lead to the big reveal of who stole Lily's tongue and how she lost it in the first place. Honestly, that plot twist was genius: you don't see it coming, but at the same time the author left enough clues for it to be a logical conclusion. I especially loved that the author makes you root for Lily this entire time, but your perception of her shatters when you find out that she lost her tongue out of her own doing--and that her tongue wasn't even hers to begin with. It makes you question whether or not you even want her to get her tongue back. It also completely changes the goal of her mission: what you thought was a quest to reclaim what was hers was actually a journey of accepting her guilt and learning to become selfless again. Plus, it made me sympathize with a villain I loathed from the start. I mean, how could you blame Sweater Girl when her entire life was taken away from her? Absolutely brilliant. This was genuinely one of the most satisfying plot twists I've ever read.
For that reason, the book got really addictive in the second half. I think I finished ten chapters in a single day because of how engrossed I was in the story.
Another thing I loved about was this book was its social commentary. The inequalities between the Completes and Incompletes parallel all kinds of discrimination in the real world: the rich and the poor, the able-bodied and the disabled. It shows how the underprivileged are treated like nothing in a society where all the rules are in favor of the ruling class.
But what struck me most about the book's commentary was how the issue was never about the shortage of resources; it was about the Completes' greed.
"There were a lot of Incompletes in the world not because of luck but because people wanted more." (pg. 124)
The Completes waste body parts because they know they can buy new ones--as shown by Mr. Teeth's careless use of his lungs.
"Also, it was unfair, laughable even, how easy it seemed for these people. Body parts could be sold and switched out at will. Meanwhile, there were two people who were missing their lungs." (pg. 91)
Not only that, but they even collect body parts just so they have more "options" to try on whenever they get bored with what they already have. Meanwhile, the Incompletes are forced to sell body parts just to make ends meet. The Market was the most chilling chapter of the book for this exact reason; it unabashedly portrays the greed of the privileged and its consequences on the underprivileged. I also like how it shows that even the Completes would use even the smallest protest from the Incompletes as an excuse to take away their rights and bend the rules, even when they have done more horrific things themselves (since it's really true to real life).
I also like how even Judges are usually the most frequent customers of the Black Market. Just goes to show how even the most seemingly "righteous" people are prone to corruption.
Although this book delves deep into injustices, there is also a strong message of empowerment, which we can observe throughout Lily's growth in the novel.
I absolutely loved how she evolved from a selfish teen to a brave, determined, and selfless grown-up. What started as a rivalry between her and her sister eventually turned into a better understanding of maturity and an acceptance of her own strengths.
"Being a woman didn't mean wearing makeup or pretty dresses. It meant taking on responsibilities and making sacrifices." (pg. 183)
"She may not be able to save herself, but she can save everyone else. Let her hands become dirty. Let her make the hard choices. She is an adult now." (pg. 200)
I also liked how the Incompletes were given narrative agency by being the only characters with names, whereas the Completes were just nicknamed after their body parts. Truly an interesting role reversal.
But beyond Lily's individual experience, it also empowers marginalized groups in general; it inspires its readers to strive for justice even in a seemingly hopeless world. It's a call to change a world that is so broken.
"The possibility of winning, of proving that there was justice in the world, made her want to live again." (pg. 99)
"If the world is divided between the lucky and the unlucky, then the world must change." (pg. 204)
Also, can I just say that the way senses are incorporated into this book is just so well-written? The world-building in general was really immersive and impressive. By the way Lily describes her different senses, we can already feel the emotional connection to her past--like how the Lady of the Night scent reminds her of her sister and happy memories. It was also heartbreaking to read how Lily could smell all the delicious food but never taste it. Probably a metaphor for how the poor can see the luxurious lives of the rich, but they're always just out of reach.
"She would never experience with her mouth the pleasure she sensed with her nose." (pg. 52)
As the title suggests, silence is also a big part of this book. It's a literal depiction of Lily's powerlessness--how she can't stand up to the Completes even if she wants to, or even express her point of view.
"Every word and action chipped away at her until she became what everyone told her she was: nothing. And Lily could do nothing but stay silent." (pg. 67)
Throughout the book, I really empathized with Lily's feeling of helplessness, which is why her redemption in the end was so rewarding.
"No one is here to save you now.
Then I will save myself." (pg. 148)
The only reason I didn't give this book five stars was because of the epilogue. While I do love that Lily changed the rules and made her village more welcoming to Incompletes, it just didn't sit right with me that she would then threaten (sometimes innocent) people by selling their parts to the black market if they opposed her. It's just sad that after all the pain Lily went through, she would impose that on other innocent people. It also mentioned that Lily accepted bribes while she was a leader, and at that point it started resembling a dictatorship rather than a democracy. I do believe certain characters deserved what they got (*ehem* Ringlets and Mr. Teeth), but in the epilogue it was taken a bit too far for me, but maybe that's just a personal preference. I also wish we got more closure on Lily's guilt.
Also, if I were realllyyy nitpicky, I could say the injustices were a bit on the nose sometimes, though personally I didn't mind. I just think other readers might appreciate more nuance on the social commentary.
Overall though, this was a really solid read. I'd highly recommend it to fans of dystopian novels. Mark my words, this book will blow up one day. I'm just glad to say I was one of its earlier readers.
This novel was such a delightful surprise. I didn't have much expectations going into this since I hadn't heard that much about this book before, but I can happily say it surpassed all my expectations. Now I can say I've found another hidden gem in Philippine literature.
One of the things I loved the most about this book was its cleverly executed plot twist. The build-up was phenomenal. At first, I didn't understand the significance of the flashbacks, but after reading the plot twist, it all makes sense. Each seemingly unnecessary detail left breadcrumbs that would lead to the big reveal of who stole Lily's tongue and how she lost it in the first place. Honestly, that plot twist was genius: you don't see it coming, but at the same time the author left enough clues for it to be a logical conclusion. I especially loved that the author makes you root for Lily this entire time, but your perception of her shatters when you find out that she lost her tongue out of her own doing--and that her tongue wasn't even hers to begin with. It makes you question whether or not you even want her to get her tongue back. It also completely changes the goal of her mission: what you thought was a quest to reclaim what was hers was actually a journey of accepting her guilt and learning to become selfless again. Plus, it made me sympathize with a villain I loathed from the start. I mean, how could you blame Sweater Girl when her entire life was taken away from her? Absolutely brilliant. This was genuinely one of the most satisfying plot twists I've ever read.
For that reason, the book got really addictive in the second half. I think I finished ten chapters in a single day because of how engrossed I was in the story.
Another thing I loved about was this book was its social commentary. The inequalities between the Completes and Incompletes parallel all kinds of discrimination in the real world: the rich and the poor, the able-bodied and the disabled. It shows how the underprivileged are treated like nothing in a society where all the rules are in favor of the ruling class.
But what struck me most about the book's commentary was how the issue was never about the shortage of resources; it was about the Completes' greed.
"There were a lot of Incompletes in the world not because of luck but because people wanted more." (pg. 124)
The Completes waste body parts because they know they can buy new ones--as shown by Mr. Teeth's careless use of his lungs.
"Also, it was unfair, laughable even, how easy it seemed for these people. Body parts could be sold and switched out at will. Meanwhile, there were two people who were missing their lungs." (pg. 91)
Not only that, but they even collect body parts just so they have more "options" to try on whenever they get bored with what they already have. Meanwhile, the Incompletes are forced to sell body parts just to make ends meet. The Market was the most chilling chapter of the book for this exact reason; it unabashedly portrays the greed of the privileged and its consequences on the underprivileged. I also like how it shows that even the Completes would use even the smallest protest from the Incompletes as an excuse to take away their rights and bend the rules, even when they have done more horrific things themselves (since it's really true to real life).
I also like how even Judges are usually the most frequent customers of the Black Market. Just goes to show how even the most seemingly "righteous" people are prone to corruption.
Although this book delves deep into injustices, there is also a strong message of empowerment, which we can observe throughout Lily's growth in the novel.
I absolutely loved how she evolved from a selfish teen to a brave, determined, and selfless grown-up. What started as a rivalry between her and her sister eventually turned into a better understanding of maturity and an acceptance of her own strengths.
"Being a woman didn't mean wearing makeup or pretty dresses. It meant taking on responsibilities and making sacrifices." (pg. 183)
"She may not be able to save herself, but she can save everyone else. Let her hands become dirty. Let her make the hard choices. She is an adult now." (pg. 200)
I also liked how the Incompletes were given narrative agency by being the only characters with names, whereas the Completes were just nicknamed after their body parts. Truly an interesting role reversal.
But beyond Lily's individual experience, it also empowers marginalized groups in general; it inspires its readers to strive for justice even in a seemingly hopeless world. It's a call to change a world that is so broken.
"The possibility of winning, of proving that there was justice in the world, made her want to live again." (pg. 99)
"If the world is divided between the lucky and the unlucky, then the world must change." (pg. 204)
Also, can I just say that the way senses are incorporated into this book is just so well-written? The world-building in general was really immersive and impressive. By the way Lily describes her different senses, we can already feel the emotional connection to her past--like how the Lady of the Night scent reminds her of her sister and happy memories. It was also heartbreaking to read how Lily could smell all the delicious food but never taste it. Probably a metaphor for how the poor can see the luxurious lives of the rich, but they're always just out of reach.
"She would never experience with her mouth the pleasure she sensed with her nose." (pg. 52)
As the title suggests, silence is also a big part of this book. It's a literal depiction of Lily's powerlessness--how she can't stand up to the Completes even if she wants to, or even express her point of view.
"Every word and action chipped away at her until she became what everyone told her she was: nothing. And Lily could do nothing but stay silent." (pg. 67)
Throughout the book, I really empathized with Lily's feeling of helplessness, which is why her redemption in the end was so rewarding.
"No one is here to save you now.
Then I will save myself." (pg. 148)
The only reason I didn't give this book five stars was because of the epilogue. While I do love that Lily changed the rules and made her village more welcoming to Incompletes, it just didn't sit right with me that she would then threaten (sometimes innocent) people by selling their parts to the black market if they opposed her. It's just sad that after all the pain Lily went through, she would impose that on other innocent people. It also mentioned that Lily accepted bribes while she was a leader, and at that point it started resembling a dictatorship rather than a democracy. I do believe certain characters deserved what they got (*ehem* Ringlets and Mr. Teeth), but in the epilogue it was taken a bit too far for me, but maybe that's just a personal preference. I also wish we got more closure on Lily's guilt.
Also, if I were realllyyy nitpicky, I could say the injustices were a bit on the nose sometimes, though personally I didn't mind. I just think other readers might appreciate more nuance on the social commentary.
Overall though, this was a really solid read. I'd highly recommend it to fans of dystopian novels. Mark my words, this book will blow up one day. I'm just glad to say I was one of its earlier readers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 19, 2026
I completely devoured this book! The world-building and characters are packed so well into this compact book. I picked it up last October 2024, and I can’t believe I waited to long to read it.
Che De Leon masterfully employs a non-linear narrative that build tension and flow. The way she uses words paints immersive scenes that engage all the senses.
The story follows Lily as she embarks on a quest to regain her tongue - a major challenge in a society that reveres the Completes and views the Incompletes as subhumans. This book kept me on the edge of my seat. Just when I thought I had a grasp of the story’s direction, another revelation would hit me, unraveling the rotting wound of this world. Each character is imperfect, including our protagonist (pun intended), who balances between likable and flawed.
Multiple character haunt the story, leaving me mourning for them despite being parts of flashbacks, with each of them contributing in building a compelling narrative.
It also offers a poignant social commentary on the reality we live in. This book will always stay with me, my Roman Empire.
Che De Leon masterfully employs a non-linear narrative that build tension and flow. The way she uses words paints immersive scenes that engage all the senses.
The story follows Lily as she embarks on a quest to regain her tongue - a major challenge in a society that reveres the Completes and views the Incompletes as subhumans. This book kept me on the edge of my seat. Just when I thought I had a grasp of the story’s direction, another revelation would hit me, unraveling the rotting wound of this world. Each character is imperfect, including our protagonist (pun intended), who balances between likable and flawed.
Multiple character haunt the story, leaving me mourning for them despite being parts of flashbacks, with each of them contributing in building a compelling narrative.
It also offers a poignant social commentary on the reality we live in. This book will always stay with me, my Roman Empire.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 6, 2026
The book resonated with me at a level I didn't yet understand; some I did. The quote "Those who are incomplete are dispensable" resonated with me the most. Making me realize that perfection does not equate to humanity, we are beautiful in our flaws.
As with Lily's missing tongue, the story's centerpiece reflects real-life pressures to conform to social norms, expectations, and systems that value obedience over humanity. Perfection becomes the goal, compassion disappears. People are no longer valued for who they are, but for how well they fit into a rigid mold.
At the core of the novel, Silence challenges the idea of "Whole = Perfect". It also reminds us that we have a choice to act, we have a choice to raise our voices, we have a choice to not conform to silence.
As with Lily's missing tongue, the story's centerpiece reflects real-life pressures to conform to social norms, expectations, and systems that value obedience over humanity. Perfection becomes the goal, compassion disappears. People are no longer valued for who they are, but for how well they fit into a rigid mold.
At the core of the novel, Silence challenges the idea of "Whole = Perfect". It also reminds us that we have a choice to act, we have a choice to raise our voices, we have a choice to not conform to silence.
November 20, 2025
A revolutionary tale of twisted weird fiction. It's so nice because this is how neurodivergence tells stories coming from a headspace that is unconventional. It's so refreshing, this is one of my best reads this year.
October 18, 2025
Che De Leon’s Silence is a lyrical and unsettling masterpiece about the cost of perfection and the power of reclaiming one’s voice. In a world where flaws are punished and conformity rules, Lily’s search for her stolen tongue becomes a haunting metaphor for autonomy and self worth.
De Leon’s prose is sharp and evocative, painting a world as cold and controlled as the City on the mountains itself. Yet, beneath the oppression, flickers a quiet rebellion a yearning for truth that cannot be silenced. The mysterious Sweater Girl and Lily’s harrowing journey draw readers into a tale that’s both intimate and mythic, echoing the emotional depth of The Handmaid’s Tale and the allegorical power of The Giver.
Silence is not just a dystopian novel it’s an act of defiance, a reminder that even in the darkest societies, the human voice remains unbreakable.
De Leon’s prose is sharp and evocative, painting a world as cold and controlled as the City on the mountains itself. Yet, beneath the oppression, flickers a quiet rebellion a yearning for truth that cannot be silenced. The mysterious Sweater Girl and Lily’s harrowing journey draw readers into a tale that’s both intimate and mythic, echoing the emotional depth of The Handmaid’s Tale and the allegorical power of The Giver.
Silence is not just a dystopian novel it’s an act of defiance, a reminder that even in the darkest societies, the human voice remains unbreakable.
January 10, 2026
The story revolves around a young girl named Lily who had lost her tongue. Until one day, when a girl in pink and green sweater appears on her doorstep and offers her that she can claim her own again, Lily follows the girl in the City unknown to her. And there, she had experienced an unexpected miserable life and ill-fated adventure of survival and discovered the ugly truth of her past as it unfolded in the kind of world that is broken and ruthless for the likes of her called as the "Incomplete."
What I loved about this story is being a real page turner due to a lot of unexpected twists that makes the plot interesting and exciting to read until the end. And from my perspective, this book is no doubt can really become a bestseller and highly recommended for those who love to read "out of the box" and a very challenging dystopian story of a human survival novel.
What I loved about this story is being a real page turner due to a lot of unexpected twists that makes the plot interesting and exciting to read until the end. And from my perspective, this book is no doubt can really become a bestseller and highly recommended for those who love to read "out of the box" and a very challenging dystopian story of a human survival novel.
November 5, 2025
I finished this book in one day. It has that kind of lure in its pages, in that I spent a majority of my reading time curled up in my warm blanket in my bed.
The book cover was curiously childish, with a doodle of a girl in a city; a bit contrasting to the blurb that was given to me by the author, or on the one written at the back of the book. It felt kinda chilling to have a body part taken from you. Morbid, even. I wouldn't want to live in this world. But the cover painted a seemingly happy-go-lucky girl in a black background of a bleak city.
I realized the seemingly childish facade can be explained as the protagonist of the story, Lily, has flashbacks of her childhood throughout the story, detailing how she ended up in the city, alone, without a tongue. The author described the two contrasting times, and in the process, the readers can see how Lily reflects on this, eventually contributing to her character development.
It could also be noted that the author only gave a proper name to Lily. The other characters were named through descriptions such as Ringlets, Long Fingers, etc. It was like a child trying to identify scary intimidating adults: a woman wearing this or that with a mole on her face, a man carrying a big briefcase and strides hurriedly etc. Even Lily's family were not named, but labelled somewhat reminsicingly and lovingly as Sister, Daddy, Mother. Her childhood crush was also not named, but considered as Him (a norm for actually pertaining to God, but in this case, i interpret as this crush being the whole world to Lily). From these names and labels, the reader could already somewhat surmise Lily's relationships or feelings towards them.
It was not a utopian or dystopian. It was like biopunk scifi. The themes touched on the inequality between social classes: the completes and incompletes. The privileged ideas of Ringlet vs the gruesome poverish scenes experienced and witnessed by Lily. One can also argue that themes can be compared to society's obsession with perfection and vanity. Quite a mind opener, this book tackled a lot of socioeconomical issues.
I just hoped that the last chapters were made longer and more detailed. The revolution that Lily has created (spoiler) deserves a separate book, in my opinion. The story definitely left me longing and asking for more, especially with the cliff hanger at the end.
This book definitely deserves to be a bestseller! So happy I got my hands on this (a year late! 😅).
"What took you so long?"
The book cover was curiously childish, with a doodle of a girl in a city; a bit contrasting to the blurb that was given to me by the author, or on the one written at the back of the book. It felt kinda chilling to have a body part taken from you. Morbid, even. I wouldn't want to live in this world. But the cover painted a seemingly happy-go-lucky girl in a black background of a bleak city.
I realized the seemingly childish facade can be explained as the protagonist of the story, Lily, has flashbacks of her childhood throughout the story, detailing how she ended up in the city, alone, without a tongue. The author described the two contrasting times, and in the process, the readers can see how Lily reflects on this, eventually contributing to her character development.
It could also be noted that the author only gave a proper name to Lily. The other characters were named through descriptions such as Ringlets, Long Fingers, etc. It was like a child trying to identify scary intimidating adults: a woman wearing this or that with a mole on her face, a man carrying a big briefcase and strides hurriedly etc. Even Lily's family were not named, but labelled somewhat reminsicingly and lovingly as Sister, Daddy, Mother. Her childhood crush was also not named, but considered as Him (a norm for actually pertaining to God, but in this case, i interpret as this crush being the whole world to Lily). From these names and labels, the reader could already somewhat surmise Lily's relationships or feelings towards them.
It was not a utopian or dystopian. It was like biopunk scifi. The themes touched on the inequality between social classes: the completes and incompletes. The privileged ideas of Ringlet vs the gruesome poverish scenes experienced and witnessed by Lily. One can also argue that themes can be compared to society's obsession with perfection and vanity. Quite a mind opener, this book tackled a lot of socioeconomical issues.
I just hoped that the last chapters were made longer and more detailed. The revolution that Lily has created (spoiler) deserves a separate book, in my opinion. The story definitely left me longing and asking for more, especially with the cliff hanger at the end.
This book definitely deserves to be a bestseller! So happy I got my hands on this (a year late! 😅).
"What took you so long?"
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 7, 2025
The premise reminds me of the novel Uglies by Scott Westerfeld but instead of the uglies and the pretties, we have the incompletes and the completes. It gripped me and kept me on the edge of my seat. I cannot wait for the second book.
October 22, 2024
This book left me a bit gutted in the end. The author has a way of crafting emotional situations and deploying callback lines that get you when you least expect.
This is a "haves vs. have-nots" story, the Completes versus the Incompletes. Incompletes are people who are missing body parts either from birth, by circumstance, or by crime. They are considered subhuman, without rights, "walking spare parts" for others to harvest and shop around.
The main character, Lily, is an Incomplete who literally lost her tongue, and the story follows her journey into the big bad City to get it back. She ends up confronting not just the person whom she thinks has her tongue but also the core injustice that underruns her world.
The setting, while promisingly dark, is deceptively simple and children's storybooklike at first, with the main city merely called the City, and all the characters except Lily named with epithets: Sweater Girl, Mr. Teeth, Long-Fingers, Ringlets, No-Ears, Sister, Mother, Eye-Less Old Man, and—my favorite—Him.
The writing style is also at first reminiscent of a lyrical story for younger readers, but further into the book the author isn't afraid to go into trigger-warning territory (SA, human trafficking, general violence from all sides).
What I'm saying is this story will wreck you if you have any heart; the author is too good at clobbering your emotions.
The main character turned out so dramatically flawed as well. I found Lily entirely sympathetic in the beginning, but then somewhere in the last three-quarters I can only watch in stunned horror at her decisions.
Ultimately I'm not sure what to feel about the final word in this novel where the heroine lives long enough to . I had expected, given the concept, that Lily as spokesperson for the Incompletes would learn her worth as a human being despite missing a body part. And toward the end, it almost seemed she did.
But then
I can't quite put my finger on why, but by the end I even lost the ability to root for any survivor whom I once considered a good guy. I was still fascinated with the story, but no longer on a personal level. All the expected foundations fell away. And the suddenly wide-picture political aspect of the epilogue was hard to square with the deeply personal nature of the earlier chapters, though I do get the need to wrap up the commentary on the political situation and propose a sort of underdog solution, even if I don't entirely agree with it.
So while I was engaged with the story, totally and painfully, it also left me a little disappointed in the main character and the inevitable violence of . But this is probably because I take it for granted that a nonviolent philosophy is the only way to ultimately change the world for the better, and so I may have unfairly expected more hope, more justice, more true victory and flourishing, than what the story was about in the end.
But apparently this isn't the final word. In that case, I'm so on board for the sequel.
This is a "haves vs. have-nots" story, the Completes versus the Incompletes. Incompletes are people who are missing body parts either from birth, by circumstance, or by crime. They are considered subhuman, without rights, "walking spare parts" for others to harvest and shop around.
The main character, Lily, is an Incomplete who literally lost her tongue, and the story follows her journey into the big bad City to get it back. She ends up confronting not just the person whom she thinks has her tongue but also the core injustice that underruns her world.
The setting, while promisingly dark, is deceptively simple and children's storybooklike at first, with the main city merely called the City, and all the characters except Lily named with epithets: Sweater Girl, Mr. Teeth, Long-Fingers, Ringlets, No-Ears, Sister, Mother, Eye-Less Old Man, and—my favorite—Him.
The writing style is also at first reminiscent of a lyrical story for younger readers, but further into the book the author isn't afraid to go into trigger-warning territory (SA, human trafficking, general violence from all sides).
What I'm saying is this story will wreck you if you have any heart; the author is too good at clobbering your emotions.
The main character turned out so dramatically flawed as well. I found Lily entirely sympathetic in the beginning, but then somewhere in the last three-quarters I can only watch in stunned horror at her decisions.
Ultimately I'm not sure what to feel about the final word in this novel where the heroine lives long enough to . I had expected, given the concept, that Lily as spokesperson for the Incompletes would learn her worth as a human being despite missing a body part. And toward the end, it almost seemed she did.
But then
I can't quite put my finger on why, but by the end I even lost the ability to root for any survivor whom I once considered a good guy. I was still fascinated with the story, but no longer on a personal level. All the expected foundations fell away. And the suddenly wide-picture political aspect of the epilogue was hard to square with the deeply personal nature of the earlier chapters, though I do get the need to wrap up the commentary on the political situation and propose a sort of underdog solution, even if I don't entirely agree with it.
So while I was engaged with the story, totally and painfully, it also left me a little disappointed in the main character and the inevitable violence of . But this is probably because I take it for granted that a nonviolent philosophy is the only way to ultimately change the world for the better, and so I may have unfairly expected more hope, more justice, more true victory and flourishing, than what the story was about in the end.
But apparently this isn't the final word. In that case, I'm so on board for the sequel.
October 23, 2024
Silence, by Che De Leon, is a gripping dystopian novel set in a world where society is starkly divided into the Complete and the Incomplete. The chasm between these two groups has never been wider, with desperation and greed ruling the day. The black market thrives, as the wealthy treat body parts like fashion accessories, swapping them at will. Amidst this chaotic world, we meet Lily—the girl with no tongue. In this brutal reality, De Leon explores the fragility of humanity. Can a world built on violence, theft, and survival possibly change? Is there room to dream of something better, or is hope a luxury no one can afford? These questions are at the heart of Lily’s journey, as she navigates a life torn between the past and the present.
The novel alternates between two timelines, reflecting Lily’s dual existence. In one, she recalls her seemingly idyllic childhood in a quiet seaside village, where she still had her tongue and a sense of belonging. In the other, we see her in the bustling, cutthroat City, where survival means becoming Complete again—no matter the cost. Lured by a mysterious girl in an ugly sweater who offers promises of fulfillment, Lily embarks on a dangerous quest, learning how to navigate a society that treats her as inferior. Along the way, she meets others like her, who teach her the skills needed to survive in the cruel and unforgiving City. She also faces tormentors, individuals who challenge her dignity and pride, testing her will to continue. As Lily struggles to come to terms with all that she has lost—her body, her identity, and perhaps her hope—De Leon’s storytelling shines.
The author weaves a complex narrative that is as emotionally resonant as it is darkly imaginative. Lily's internal battle mirrors the external conflict in this fractured world, making her story both deeply personal and universally relatable. De Leon’s voice is both distinct and powerful, offering readers an unflinching look at themes of survival, identity, and resilience.
The lessons embedded in Lily’s journey transcend the dystopian setting, speaking to readers of all backgrounds, regardless of race, gender, or age. While set in an alternate reality, the novel strikes an eerie chord, suggesting that this world may not be as far from our own as we would like to believe.
Silence is not just a tale of a girl trying to reclaim what was taken from her. It is a reflection on human nature and the lengths to which individuals will go to feel whole again. De Leon’s masterful storytelling and richly drawn world make this a novel that lingers long after the final page, challenging readers to think about what it means to be complete in a world that feels so broken.
The novel alternates between two timelines, reflecting Lily’s dual existence. In one, she recalls her seemingly idyllic childhood in a quiet seaside village, where she still had her tongue and a sense of belonging. In the other, we see her in the bustling, cutthroat City, where survival means becoming Complete again—no matter the cost. Lured by a mysterious girl in an ugly sweater who offers promises of fulfillment, Lily embarks on a dangerous quest, learning how to navigate a society that treats her as inferior. Along the way, she meets others like her, who teach her the skills needed to survive in the cruel and unforgiving City. She also faces tormentors, individuals who challenge her dignity and pride, testing her will to continue. As Lily struggles to come to terms with all that she has lost—her body, her identity, and perhaps her hope—De Leon’s storytelling shines.
The author weaves a complex narrative that is as emotionally resonant as it is darkly imaginative. Lily's internal battle mirrors the external conflict in this fractured world, making her story both deeply personal and universally relatable. De Leon’s voice is both distinct and powerful, offering readers an unflinching look at themes of survival, identity, and resilience.
The lessons embedded in Lily’s journey transcend the dystopian setting, speaking to readers of all backgrounds, regardless of race, gender, or age. While set in an alternate reality, the novel strikes an eerie chord, suggesting that this world may not be as far from our own as we would like to believe.
Silence is not just a tale of a girl trying to reclaim what was taken from her. It is a reflection on human nature and the lengths to which individuals will go to feel whole again. De Leon’s masterful storytelling and richly drawn world make this a novel that lingers long after the final page, challenging readers to think about what it means to be complete in a world that feels so broken.
January 19, 2026
Che De Leon’s award-winning debut novel, Silence, is a striking exploration of conformity, identity, and the human cost of perfection. Set in a dystopian society that demands flawlessness, the story follows Lily, a woman whose tongue is forcibly removed as punishment for imperfection. When a mysterious Sweater Girl appears, Lily embarks on a treacherous journey through the City on the mountains to reclaim her voice, agency, and sense of self.
At its core, Silence is a meditation on the pressures to conform and the consequences of suppressing individuality. Lily’s missing tongue is a potent symbol, representing not only speech but autonomy, memory, truth, and resistance. Her quest to recover it mirrors a universal struggle to reclaim the parts of ourselves that a rigid society seeks to erase. De Leon uses this metaphor to challenge readers to consider what is sacrificed in the pursuit of perfection—and what it truly means to be “whole” in a fractured world.
De Leon’s prose is both lyrical and precise, evoking the oppressive yet captivating atmosphere of the City on the mountains. The novel balances introspective passages with narrative tension, allowing readers to inhabit Lily’s emotional landscape fully. While the pacing occasionally slows due to reflection, these moments deepen the story’s thematic resonance. Some secondary characters, including Sweater Girl, could benefit from further development, and the dystopian setting at times draws on familiar conventions. Yet these minor shortcomings do not detract from the novel’s central impact.
Che De Leon’s background—born in Manila, trained in Creative Writing at De La Salle University, and steeped in literature, Japanese studies, and diverse media—imbues Silence with layered symbolism and global resonance. The novel’s strengths lie in its compelling central metaphor, thoughtful exploration of humanity versus conformity, and a protagonist whose struggle feels urgent and universal.
Silence is more than a dystopian tale; it is a reflective mirror on contemporary society, urging readers to confront the cost of silence and the courage required to reclaim one’s voice. Its imperfections reinforce its message: resilience, not perfection, defines humanity.
Rating: 4./5
At its core, Silence is a meditation on the pressures to conform and the consequences of suppressing individuality. Lily’s missing tongue is a potent symbol, representing not only speech but autonomy, memory, truth, and resistance. Her quest to recover it mirrors a universal struggle to reclaim the parts of ourselves that a rigid society seeks to erase. De Leon uses this metaphor to challenge readers to consider what is sacrificed in the pursuit of perfection—and what it truly means to be “whole” in a fractured world.
De Leon’s prose is both lyrical and precise, evoking the oppressive yet captivating atmosphere of the City on the mountains. The novel balances introspective passages with narrative tension, allowing readers to inhabit Lily’s emotional landscape fully. While the pacing occasionally slows due to reflection, these moments deepen the story’s thematic resonance. Some secondary characters, including Sweater Girl, could benefit from further development, and the dystopian setting at times draws on familiar conventions. Yet these minor shortcomings do not detract from the novel’s central impact.
Che De Leon’s background—born in Manila, trained in Creative Writing at De La Salle University, and steeped in literature, Japanese studies, and diverse media—imbues Silence with layered symbolism and global resonance. The novel’s strengths lie in its compelling central metaphor, thoughtful exploration of humanity versus conformity, and a protagonist whose struggle feels urgent and universal.
Silence is more than a dystopian tale; it is a reflective mirror on contemporary society, urging readers to confront the cost of silence and the courage required to reclaim one’s voice. Its imperfections reinforce its message: resilience, not perfection, defines humanity.
Rating: 4./5
February 3, 2026
This book has captured my absolute obsession for dystopian genres. It was the second book I got from The Book Club PH by @8lettersbooks and it was too great a masterpiece from a Filo author @chewriteswords. Skipping a review was never an option so here's mine:
The real-world pressures to conform mirror the way we lived in constant pursuit of perfection. The novel, Silence, exposes the consequences of these pursuits. It had always been greedy and violent. It was never pretty to begin with.
Lily's missing tongue represents the force she needed to defy all odds. It was more than bringing her voice back. It represents the kind of justice she longed to have and the quiet resilience it took to get there.
I felt Lily's journey closest to mine when she felt like the world was asking her to give up and she refused to accept her fate. She didn't wallow in their cruelty but instead used it to gain strength. However painful, however ugly.
In a fractured society, it is crucial to want to appear "whole". If we don't have the right parts to be liked or accepted then we might as well spend our lifetime getting ridiculed, bullied and shunned. If you want to put your tongue to good use, I recommend you read this book. Unless of course, you prefer the silence.
The real-world pressures to conform mirror the way we lived in constant pursuit of perfection. The novel, Silence, exposes the consequences of these pursuits. It had always been greedy and violent. It was never pretty to begin with.
Lily's missing tongue represents the force she needed to defy all odds. It was more than bringing her voice back. It represents the kind of justice she longed to have and the quiet resilience it took to get there.
I felt Lily's journey closest to mine when she felt like the world was asking her to give up and she refused to accept her fate. She didn't wallow in their cruelty but instead used it to gain strength. However painful, however ugly.
In a fractured society, it is crucial to want to appear "whole". If we don't have the right parts to be liked or accepted then we might as well spend our lifetime getting ridiculed, bullied and shunned. If you want to put your tongue to good use, I recommend you read this book. Unless of course, you prefer the silence.
September 25, 2024
This is slow-burn storytelling done right!
With a gripping concept, a distinctive authorial voice, and a masterfully executed slow build, this semi-dystopian thriller was delicious!
Don’t be misled by the cover—this novel plunges you into a gritty, dark, and viscerally intense world. I’ll admit, when I learned it was a debut, I had my reservations. But those were quickly dispelled as the narrative unfolded with the skill & confidence of a seasoned writer. I truly felt for Lily from start to finish. The writing not only matched the tone of the world but elevated it, seamlessly intertwining tension and world-building simultaneously.
This book was a delight to read—not only because of its powerful message, but also the deeply satisfying conclusions. I can’t wait to see what this author writes next, and I’m eager to dive deeper into the world she’s created.
Actual Rating: 4.9
With a gripping concept, a distinctive authorial voice, and a masterfully executed slow build, this semi-dystopian thriller was delicious!
Don’t be misled by the cover—this novel plunges you into a gritty, dark, and viscerally intense world. I’ll admit, when I learned it was a debut, I had my reservations. But those were quickly dispelled as the narrative unfolded with the skill & confidence of a seasoned writer. I truly felt for Lily from start to finish. The writing not only matched the tone of the world but elevated it, seamlessly intertwining tension and world-building simultaneously.
This book was a delight to read—not only because of its powerful message, but also the deeply satisfying conclusions. I can’t wait to see what this author writes next, and I’m eager to dive deeper into the world she’s created.
Actual Rating: 4.9
March 7, 2025
I started this book without any ounce of idea of what to expect. But maaaan, I was blown with how this was beautifully written - from the two timelines, to the slow burn plot building, and the savagery of the population class system. Through the two thirds of the book, I was heavily empathizing with the FMC, learning chapter by chapter how her life was taken away from her - the last third? My eyebrows had shot up so high, it could've reached my hairline already, with all the plot twists and revelations.
I was left not knowing who to root for, knowing each characters had made decisions that have impacted their and the lives of the people around them significantly - some to a point of no return. I can't wait for the next book and discover what lies in wait from all this female rage.
I was left not knowing who to root for, knowing each characters had made decisions that have impacted their and the lives of the people around them significantly - some to a point of no return. I can't wait for the next book and discover what lies in wait from all this female rage.
December 30, 2024
I've never been a fan of sequels, satiated with stand-alones and a good cliff-hanger, but for the first time I was left asking for more.
Initially, I thought of Silence as a slow-paced read where I simply follow the heroine's journey in whatever her pursuit in life is and allow myself to be tagged along. However, I was taken into a dark turn which I did not see coming at all. Female rage splendidly written by a local author was not on my 2024 bingo card, the turn of events definitely got me on a chokehold.
I would consider it a light read but it'll definitely have you hold your seat the more you flip through each chapter.
Initially, I thought of Silence as a slow-paced read where I simply follow the heroine's journey in whatever her pursuit in life is and allow myself to be tagged along. However, I was taken into a dark turn which I did not see coming at all. Female rage splendidly written by a local author was not on my 2024 bingo card, the turn of events definitely got me on a chokehold.
I would consider it a light read but it'll definitely have you hold your seat the more you flip through each chapter.
December 22, 2024
Silence is a dystopian, allegoric tale of a girl who literally lost her tongue. The story's built on a familiar setting for certain readers (if you know, you know), but it's also written so universally that the author was able to bring real-life experiences to a vast range of audiences. It strings a chord, actually. The story's meant to disturb you. Some reflected the harsh reality of certain demographics, while most kept you on your toes on Lily's harsh journey. Overall, it's a really fun read with a familiar tinge of 'home'
January 19, 2025
Silence is probably one of my most loved dark fantasy novel of 2024!
I have a love and hate relationship with Lily. Sometimes, I hate her choices but most of times, I can relate to her mind however twisted it can get.
And the plot twist! This book kept me on my toes and at the edge of my seat. What a way to tackle real social issues and human relationships in the world of fiction. I don't want to give spoilers but this is definitely a fine read! Silence crosses the fine line between fiction and reality.
Looking forward to book 2!
I have a love and hate relationship with Lily. Sometimes, I hate her choices but most of times, I can relate to her mind however twisted it can get.
And the plot twist! This book kept me on my toes and at the edge of my seat. What a way to tackle real social issues and human relationships in the world of fiction. I don't want to give spoilers but this is definitely a fine read! Silence crosses the fine line between fiction and reality.
Looking forward to book 2!
November 29, 2025
The author already saw me checking out the book unprompted. From the blurb at the back I was already intrigued. I however had not expected the turn from the child-like whimsy to the twists and turns of the narrative. I really enjoyed my time unravelling the story. I am so happy to read modern Philippine literature like this one. And I am not opposed to a sequel.
March 4, 2026
The premise of this books intrigues me right away and the fact that this acts like a social commentary makes the narrative rich and introspective. I love how the author designed Lily’s character and her journey to find her lost tongue. It really fits perfectly on my book preference beacuse it’s dystopian mixed with emotional depth— with deep human experiences concerning identity.
February 16, 2026
I absolutely loved Silence it’s emotional, original, and deeply moving. Lily’s story touched me and kept me hooked all the way through. Truly a beautiful and memorable book by Che De Leon. Highly recommended.
March 3, 2026
Maikli ngunit matalim, ang nobela ay isang alegorya tungkol sa katahimikan, trauma, at paghahanap ng sariling tinig. Mapangahas at emosyonal, ipinapakita nito na ang pagbawi ng boses ay hindi lang personal na laban—isa itong tahimik na rebelyon laban sa mundong gustong magdikta kung sino ka dapat.
April 7, 2026
This book offers a gripping and reflective reading experience, reveal deeper ideas about identity, control, and human behavior. I like how the story balances its fantasy elements with themes that feel grounded in real-life social issues, making it both engaging and meaningful to read.
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