What do you think?
Rate this book
The Girl Without a Voice
Set in the fall of 1980, isolated mute Alice comes upon a startling discovery that her father may be a serial killer... A sharp read for lovers of true crime and Bright Young Women by Jessica Knoll.
Born mute, Alice has never known a normal life. Kept from the outside world by her cruel mother and overbearing father, her only friend is her neighbour Hailey with whom she communicates through sign language.
When Alice’s father is diagnosed with terminal cancer, Alice listens to his feverish drug-induced ramblings. And then, in his final days, he reveals something Alice never expected. He confesses to murdering several women.
Shocked and disbelieving, Alice confides in Hailey. Together, they vow to find the truth and decide to journey her father’s old routes as a travelling salesman. A pattern begins to emerge, connecting him to various missing women, before the pair discovers the real reason why Alice lost her ability to speak. And how she is at the centre of her father’s crimes…
Born mute, Alice has never known a normal life. Kept from the outside world by her cruel mother and overbearing father, her only friend is her neighbour Hailey with whom she communicates through sign language.
When Alice’s father is diagnosed with terminal cancer, Alice listens to his feverish drug-induced ramblings. And then, in his final days, he reveals something Alice never expected. He confesses to murdering several women.
Shocked and disbelieving, Alice confides in Hailey. Together, they vow to find the truth and decide to journey her father’s old routes as a travelling salesman. A pattern begins to emerge, connecting him to various missing women, before the pair discovers the real reason why Alice lost her ability to speak. And how she is at the centre of her father’s crimes…
337 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 19, 2025
15 people are currently reading
237 people want to read
About the author
Sandra J. Paul
98 books237 followersAuthor of various psychological thrillers, Young Adult, Middle Grade and Children's books. Several bookrights have been sold to various countries.
Laureaat van de Aspe Award 2015.
Also known as Joanne Carlton.
Laureaat van de Aspe Award 2015.
Also known as Joanne Carlton.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
September 7, 2025
A slow-boiling mix of family drama and suspense with a bit of sapphic romance, The Girl Without a Voice was a character-driven narrative that was both poignant and gutting. From the deeply dysfunctional family to the long-buried dark secrets, as soon as I started on this journey with Alice, I knew that I needed to learn all of the whos, whats, and whys of her story. With a clear 1980s vibe and a true-crime-like puzzle, I was happy to simply follow along as the mystery of the past was slowly unwound. After all, Alice’s life was just as shudder-inducing as it was tragic. With a slight B.A. Paris feel, I didn’t really mind the slow pace as it shined a light on this twisted family despite the initial lack of action.
That being said, I had two large issues with this novel. The first was how little it resembled a mystery/thriller. With the first half instead focusing on Alice’s disturbing lack of a life, much of that could’ve been pared down. About halfway through, though, the plot definitely picked up steam and I was intrigued to find out what was going to come next. I was sad to see, however, that even it felt more told versus shown. My second pet peeve was the conclusion, which made me want to throw the book across the room. I can’t say much more without giving the whole shebang away, but just know that it was both open-ended and irritating to the extent that I yelled “WTF?!” out loud, but without any glee.
While I’m at it, I need to emphatically point out that you should avoid reading the synopsis at all costs. Disclosing a handful of twists before you even open the book, the rest of the plot fell somewhat flat once they were revealed. After all, the only other revelations were ones that I had guessed almost right from the start. Of course, that could be down to my insatiable appetite for all things suspense, but I’m betting I wasn’t the only one to see through the not-so-well-hidden clues.
All said and done, though, despite the few flaws, I flew through this book in one single sitting. A quick, easy read in spite of the serious themes, the original premise kept my attention from start to finish. With a mute hamstrung protagonist and a set of truly despicable parents, I was spellbound as I watched her world expand throughout the length of the novel. Along with the compelling amateur sleuthing following a deathbed confession, there was plenty to love about this Bright Young Women vibing novel. So if you love complex relationships, toxic families, and oodles of trauma, this book is for you. Just don’t go into expecting a thriller, because it just wasn’t there. Rating of 3.5 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
As I said above, I beg of you to avoid the official synopsis at all costs. After all, not only does it reveal way too much, but it gives away the big, giant twist as well as another important turn in the plot. All you need to know is that Alice is a mute twenty-something woman still living at home with her controlling parents. With a life confined to rooms inside of the four walls of her home, Alice’s world is unsurprisingly boring. Everything changes, however, after her father comes home and breaks the news that he has terminal cancer. Even more shocking, however, is his deathbed confession, which turns Alice’s life upside down. Determined to find out the truth, Alice must come into her own. But will what she finds heal her—or break her for good?
Thank you to Sandra J. Paul and Datura Books for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: August 19, 2025
Content warning: emotional abuse, alcoholism, sexual assault, terminal cancer, anxiety, homophobia, abduction, forced captivity, rape, mention of: domestic abuse, murder, suicide
That being said, I had two large issues with this novel. The first was how little it resembled a mystery/thriller. With the first half instead focusing on Alice’s disturbing lack of a life, much of that could’ve been pared down. About halfway through, though, the plot definitely picked up steam and I was intrigued to find out what was going to come next. I was sad to see, however, that even it felt more told versus shown. My second pet peeve was the conclusion, which made me want to throw the book across the room. I can’t say much more without giving the whole shebang away, but just know that it was both open-ended and irritating to the extent that I yelled “WTF?!” out loud, but without any glee.
While I’m at it, I need to emphatically point out that you should avoid reading the synopsis at all costs. Disclosing a handful of twists before you even open the book, the rest of the plot fell somewhat flat once they were revealed. After all, the only other revelations were ones that I had guessed almost right from the start. Of course, that could be down to my insatiable appetite for all things suspense, but I’m betting I wasn’t the only one to see through the not-so-well-hidden clues.
All said and done, though, despite the few flaws, I flew through this book in one single sitting. A quick, easy read in spite of the serious themes, the original premise kept my attention from start to finish. With a mute hamstrung protagonist and a set of truly despicable parents, I was spellbound as I watched her world expand throughout the length of the novel. Along with the compelling amateur sleuthing following a deathbed confession, there was plenty to love about this Bright Young Women vibing novel. So if you love complex relationships, toxic families, and oodles of trauma, this book is for you. Just don’t go into expecting a thriller, because it just wasn’t there. Rating of 3.5 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
As I said above, I beg of you to avoid the official synopsis at all costs. After all, not only does it reveal way too much, but it gives away the big, giant twist as well as another important turn in the plot. All you need to know is that Alice is a mute twenty-something woman still living at home with her controlling parents. With a life confined to rooms inside of the four walls of her home, Alice’s world is unsurprisingly boring. Everything changes, however, after her father comes home and breaks the news that he has terminal cancer. Even more shocking, however, is his deathbed confession, which turns Alice’s life upside down. Determined to find out the truth, Alice must come into her own. But will what she finds heal her—or break her for good?
Thank you to Sandra J. Paul and Datura Books for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: August 19, 2025
Content warning: emotional abuse, alcoholism, sexual assault, terminal cancer, anxiety, homophobia, abduction, forced captivity, rape, mention of: domestic abuse, murder, suicide
August 16, 2025
My Rating: 2⭐️⭐️ It had promise, but let me down big time!!
Set in the fall of 1980, isolated mute Alice comes upon a startling discovery that her father may be a serial killer.
Born mute, Alice has never known a normal life. Kept from the outside world by her cruel mother and overbearing father, her only friend is her neighbour Hailey with whom she communicates through sign language.
When Alice’s father is diagnosed with terminal cancer, she listens to his feverish drug induced ramblings. And then, in his final days, he reveals something Alice never expected.
Alice confides in Hailey and together they vow to find out the truth and decide to journey her father’s old routes as a travelling salesman. With patterns emerging and missing women connected, Alice is wondering if the real reason she lost her voice is hidden in this secret mess…
Alrighty, this had promise, but was ultimately a let down. I have left some info out of the synopsis that is misleading because when you actually read the story things that happen in the synopsis do not happen the way they said… personally that annoys me because it gives away information in a deceitful way.
Where to start, I liked the idea of Alice’s awful weird life being the centre of this mystery, I thought we would get a lot more insight into her life in the house where she wasn’t even allowed to have the drapes open… but page after page it was just Alice reading… all day, not allowed to watch TV, secretly watching TV, until shes about 24 and thats really all shes done. Now don’t get me wrong thats a bloody awful life.. but other things must have happened in 24 freaking years… and why you ask is she mute.
We don’t know, why is she locked up, again we don’t know… the book goes on and on in a repetitious manner for at least 50% and I am thinking surely soon we are going to get something…. And what we get is after 24 years of Alice only breaking very minor rules she suddenly decides she will have a sign language chat to her neighbour… just like that.
In the synopsis we are promised that there is talk of her father being suspected of being a serial killer… well keep waiting… this one is going to take a while and when we get there its a bit of a blip on the radar considering the revelations that take place.
The story is told from our FMC Alice POV and to be honest I think it would be have been good to have a multi-POV for this one. It would have been good to see what was going on in her mums head, her dads and even Hailey’s.
So many things started happening in the latter half of this book… but also not happening. It was really unlikely that a locked up mute like Alice would just suddenly swan into the world and start solving crimes. I know she was having panic attacks but literally like two… then shew as like sweet lets get a hair cut and start wearing pretty clothes and by the way… totally attracted to my neighbour and want to kiss her face off… really… a 24 year old, who has been locked in a house away from the outside world her entire life… who cannot speak… who thinks her dad might be the next Ted Bundy… shes definitely getting dolled up and puckering up for her hot neighbour in a bit of girl on girl action.. sorry but I don’t buy it.. there needed to be some time passed for any of that to happen.
This story meandered along at a snails pace repeating itself over and over and then bam everything was happening all at once and often a lot of it was unnecessary, unlikely or just plain weird.
I kept reading because… well I was invested at this point.. but it was a hard slog, that wasn’t really worth it, the writing itself was fine… there were some decent parts so thats why its getting a 2 and not a 1 but really it was a massive let down… and the ending… look I get it… I know what the author was going for…but the delivery… nope… it was shit just shit.
Overall, I don’t recommend this to anyone on my list… I am sure there will be people out there that will love this.. but if you are a thriller lover or even a fiction lover of stories that are not super repetitive and full on nonsense you wont like this. I wish I liked it more… but unfortunately just a big let down.
Thank you to Datura Books, NetGalley and the author for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Set in the fall of 1980, isolated mute Alice comes upon a startling discovery that her father may be a serial killer.
Born mute, Alice has never known a normal life. Kept from the outside world by her cruel mother and overbearing father, her only friend is her neighbour Hailey with whom she communicates through sign language.
When Alice’s father is diagnosed with terminal cancer, she listens to his feverish drug induced ramblings. And then, in his final days, he reveals something Alice never expected.
Alice confides in Hailey and together they vow to find out the truth and decide to journey her father’s old routes as a travelling salesman. With patterns emerging and missing women connected, Alice is wondering if the real reason she lost her voice is hidden in this secret mess…
Alrighty, this had promise, but was ultimately a let down. I have left some info out of the synopsis that is misleading because when you actually read the story things that happen in the synopsis do not happen the way they said… personally that annoys me because it gives away information in a deceitful way.
Where to start, I liked the idea of Alice’s awful weird life being the centre of this mystery, I thought we would get a lot more insight into her life in the house where she wasn’t even allowed to have the drapes open… but page after page it was just Alice reading… all day, not allowed to watch TV, secretly watching TV, until shes about 24 and thats really all shes done. Now don’t get me wrong thats a bloody awful life.. but other things must have happened in 24 freaking years… and why you ask is she mute.
We don’t know, why is she locked up, again we don’t know… the book goes on and on in a repetitious manner for at least 50% and I am thinking surely soon we are going to get something…. And what we get is after 24 years of Alice only breaking very minor rules she suddenly decides she will have a sign language chat to her neighbour… just like that.
In the synopsis we are promised that there is talk of her father being suspected of being a serial killer… well keep waiting… this one is going to take a while and when we get there its a bit of a blip on the radar considering the revelations that take place.
The story is told from our FMC Alice POV and to be honest I think it would be have been good to have a multi-POV for this one. It would have been good to see what was going on in her mums head, her dads and even Hailey’s.
So many things started happening in the latter half of this book… but also not happening. It was really unlikely that a locked up mute like Alice would just suddenly swan into the world and start solving crimes. I know she was having panic attacks but literally like two… then shew as like sweet lets get a hair cut and start wearing pretty clothes and by the way… totally attracted to my neighbour and want to kiss her face off… really… a 24 year old, who has been locked in a house away from the outside world her entire life… who cannot speak… who thinks her dad might be the next Ted Bundy… shes definitely getting dolled up and puckering up for her hot neighbour in a bit of girl on girl action.. sorry but I don’t buy it.. there needed to be some time passed for any of that to happen.
This story meandered along at a snails pace repeating itself over and over and then bam everything was happening all at once and often a lot of it was unnecessary, unlikely or just plain weird.
I kept reading because… well I was invested at this point.. but it was a hard slog, that wasn’t really worth it, the writing itself was fine… there were some decent parts so thats why its getting a 2 and not a 1 but really it was a massive let down… and the ending… look I get it… I know what the author was going for…but the delivery… nope… it was shit just shit.
Overall, I don’t recommend this to anyone on my list… I am sure there will be people out there that will love this.. but if you are a thriller lover or even a fiction lover of stories that are not super repetitive and full on nonsense you wont like this. I wish I liked it more… but unfortunately just a big let down.
Thank you to Datura Books, NetGalley and the author for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 8, 2025
"The Girl Without a Voice" tells the fascinating yet heart breaking story of Alice, a girl born mute & trapped in a life shaped by silence, fear & isolation. This isn’t just any thriller — it’s a psychological & emotional rollercoaster.
Alice immediately struck me as vulnerable & helpless, someone who could shatter instantly if you so much as brush against her. I just wanted to wrap her in a blanket & hug her tight. Reading about her living in complete isolation, convinced that danger waits behind every door, was incredibly painful. Her muteness is a symbol of how toned down she has become, how small & powerless her parents intended to make her feel her entire life.
Alice's father plays a huge part in enhancing the suffocating & controlling atmosphere. He’s the puppet master, controlling everything behind the scenes, even when he’s not physically there. The dread of his return from work, the inability to move freely in their own home... You can feel how it slowly eats away at both Alice & her mother from the inside.
But hey, in comes Hailey — Alice’s new neighbour & the first person in her life to ever truly see her. Alice doesn’t go to school, has no friends & never leaves the house. Hailey is her very first, very real human connection. The fascination & hunger to get to know other people is so strong that their friendship evolves fast until eventually, Hailey becomes her lifeline.
The pacing of the book reflects Alice’s journey to a T. In the beginning, the story seems rather slow-paced as we get to know her & her family more. After that, the speed picks up like lightning, with one surprise leading into another.
When Alice & Hailey decide to retrace her father’s old sales routes, the emotional weight of the story takes a massive turn. It’s not just a search for answers — it’s reopening all old wounds from Alice's childhood. You can clearly tell that she hopes to be wrong, until all the evidence stares her dead in the face, unable to be denied or ignored any longer.
The emotional balance in this novel is amazing. One minute I wanted to either scream or cry, the next I was chewing my nails from the lingering tension. Add to that the psychological thriller elements & you have an amazing story. This is something Sandra J. Paul excels at. She’s one of my favourite Flemish authors for a reason — she always delivers.
And then — that reveal! I didn’t see it coming at all! The way all the dots were connected in the end? I was reeling. Plot twist after plot twist. I could barely keep up & at times, I found myself holding my breath for so long, I’d come out of a chapter gasping. That’s how intense it got! 😮💨
The ending left me absolutely gobsmacked. I closed the book with a million questions still swirling in my head. What will happen next? What will unfold in Alice’s life? Where will she go from here? I’m just absolutely dying to know!
Alice immediately struck me as vulnerable & helpless, someone who could shatter instantly if you so much as brush against her. I just wanted to wrap her in a blanket & hug her tight. Reading about her living in complete isolation, convinced that danger waits behind every door, was incredibly painful. Her muteness is a symbol of how toned down she has become, how small & powerless her parents intended to make her feel her entire life.
Alice's father plays a huge part in enhancing the suffocating & controlling atmosphere. He’s the puppet master, controlling everything behind the scenes, even when he’s not physically there. The dread of his return from work, the inability to move freely in their own home... You can feel how it slowly eats away at both Alice & her mother from the inside.
But hey, in comes Hailey — Alice’s new neighbour & the first person in her life to ever truly see her. Alice doesn’t go to school, has no friends & never leaves the house. Hailey is her very first, very real human connection. The fascination & hunger to get to know other people is so strong that their friendship evolves fast until eventually, Hailey becomes her lifeline.
The pacing of the book reflects Alice’s journey to a T. In the beginning, the story seems rather slow-paced as we get to know her & her family more. After that, the speed picks up like lightning, with one surprise leading into another.
When Alice & Hailey decide to retrace her father’s old sales routes, the emotional weight of the story takes a massive turn. It’s not just a search for answers — it’s reopening all old wounds from Alice's childhood. You can clearly tell that she hopes to be wrong, until all the evidence stares her dead in the face, unable to be denied or ignored any longer.
The emotional balance in this novel is amazing. One minute I wanted to either scream or cry, the next I was chewing my nails from the lingering tension. Add to that the psychological thriller elements & you have an amazing story. This is something Sandra J. Paul excels at. She’s one of my favourite Flemish authors for a reason — she always delivers.
And then — that reveal! I didn’t see it coming at all! The way all the dots were connected in the end? I was reeling. Plot twist after plot twist. I could barely keep up & at times, I found myself holding my breath for so long, I’d come out of a chapter gasping. That’s how intense it got! 😮💨
The ending left me absolutely gobsmacked. I closed the book with a million questions still swirling in my head. What will happen next? What will unfold in Alice’s life? Where will she go from here? I’m just absolutely dying to know!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 22, 2025
The Girl Without a Voice is a thriller novel written by Sandra J. Paul, published by Datura Books. A psychological thriller that slowly builds the suspense while experimenting with a dread sensation, a plot partly inspired by true crime stories and a main character searching the truth while confronting her fears, discovering a total new world for her.
Alice, a 22-year-old woman, was born mute; her parents kept her isolated in their home, without a connection to the real world outside of books and soap operas. At her father's bedside (as he's dying from cancer), during his agony, she discovers that he might have been a serial killer; together with her neighbour Hayley, her first human contact outside of her family, she will start an investigative journey while trying to confront her fears and the real world, trying to tie the knots that connect his father with mysterious disappearances.
With Alice in the spotlight, we have a rather interesting and brave main character; one that is discovering the world at her 22 years, but also having to confront the reality that her parents have lied her all her life, almost abusing her to keep her tied to them. A reality that also brings her panic and anxiety, but in that regard is where Hayley enters. Her door to reality, but also the balance for those moments when everything is too much over Alice; she has her own motivations, but between our two characters a nice relationship is established.
Using a small town in the 1980s as the setting is a suitable choice; a start for what it is a big journey for the characters. During the novel, we can see how, among the thriller, Paul deals with themes such as trauma, healing and isolation; the weight of past wounds over the soul.
The pacing is fast, making you easily devour this book.
If you like psychological thrillers and true crime, The Girl Without a Voice is the perfect summer read for you; a smart and fast-paced novel with a fascinating main character.
Alice, a 22-year-old woman, was born mute; her parents kept her isolated in their home, without a connection to the real world outside of books and soap operas. At her father's bedside (as he's dying from cancer), during his agony, she discovers that he might have been a serial killer; together with her neighbour Hayley, her first human contact outside of her family, she will start an investigative journey while trying to confront her fears and the real world, trying to tie the knots that connect his father with mysterious disappearances.
With Alice in the spotlight, we have a rather interesting and brave main character; one that is discovering the world at her 22 years, but also having to confront the reality that her parents have lied her all her life, almost abusing her to keep her tied to them. A reality that also brings her panic and anxiety, but in that regard is where Hayley enters. Her door to reality, but also the balance for those moments when everything is too much over Alice; she has her own motivations, but between our two characters a nice relationship is established.
Using a small town in the 1980s as the setting is a suitable choice; a start for what it is a big journey for the characters. During the novel, we can see how, among the thriller, Paul deals with themes such as trauma, healing and isolation; the weight of past wounds over the soul.
The pacing is fast, making you easily devour this book.
If you like psychological thrillers and true crime, The Girl Without a Voice is the perfect summer read for you; a smart and fast-paced novel with a fascinating main character.
July 21, 2025
3.75 ⭐️
A haunting psychological thriller with a slow-building sense of dread. Sandra J. Paul weaves emotional depth into every layer of suspense, pulling me in completely.
“The Girl Without A Voice” was set in fall 1980 and centered on Alice, a 22-year-old woman born mute. Her parents convinced her, and nearly everyone, that she was always voiceless and kept her isolated in their home. Her only connection to the outside world was through books and watching soap operas in secret. When her dad was diagnosed with cancer, Alice stayed by his bedside and learned of a horrific secret.
Paul fabricated an extremely unique premise- a mute woman uncovering her father’s dark past made for an original set up that immediately grabbed my attention. I loved the small town setting. It set a chilling tone and a moody and claustrophobic atmosphere. Even more, the emotional depth of Alice’s internal world of loneliness/isolation, confusion and desire to find the truth was beautifully portrayed with sensitivity and realism.
I also liked how this story blended psychological tension, dark family secrets, and a chilling journey toward self-discovery. Moreover, this story’s tone dealt with heavy and mature themes like emotional abuse, isolation, and the lasting impact of childhood trauma. It explored how past wounds shape identity, relationships, and trust.
“The Girl Without a Voice” echoed the tone of Emma Donoghue’s “Room,” but unfolded at a more gradual, slow-burning pace. This is a great book for readers who like slow-building, atmospheric suspense with deep-rooted family secrets and emotional tension.
Grateful to NetGalley and Datura for the early read in return for an honest review.
A haunting psychological thriller with a slow-building sense of dread. Sandra J. Paul weaves emotional depth into every layer of suspense, pulling me in completely.
“The Girl Without A Voice” was set in fall 1980 and centered on Alice, a 22-year-old woman born mute. Her parents convinced her, and nearly everyone, that she was always voiceless and kept her isolated in their home. Her only connection to the outside world was through books and watching soap operas in secret. When her dad was diagnosed with cancer, Alice stayed by his bedside and learned of a horrific secret.
Paul fabricated an extremely unique premise- a mute woman uncovering her father’s dark past made for an original set up that immediately grabbed my attention. I loved the small town setting. It set a chilling tone and a moody and claustrophobic atmosphere. Even more, the emotional depth of Alice’s internal world of loneliness/isolation, confusion and desire to find the truth was beautifully portrayed with sensitivity and realism.
I also liked how this story blended psychological tension, dark family secrets, and a chilling journey toward self-discovery. Moreover, this story’s tone dealt with heavy and mature themes like emotional abuse, isolation, and the lasting impact of childhood trauma. It explored how past wounds shape identity, relationships, and trust.
“The Girl Without a Voice” echoed the tone of Emma Donoghue’s “Room,” but unfolded at a more gradual, slow-burning pace. This is a great book for readers who like slow-building, atmospheric suspense with deep-rooted family secrets and emotional tension.
Grateful to NetGalley and Datura for the early read in return for an honest review.
August 10, 2025
Creepy thriller.
Sad story about isolation, murder and coming to terms with your identity.
The story flowed well. The first half is informative and sets the stage for the creepiness in the last half. There are some surprises and many new facts that keep you working towards the end.
Even the ending is a surprise.
Written well and the narration is very good.
Sad story about isolation, murder and coming to terms with your identity.
The story flowed well. The first half is informative and sets the stage for the creepiness in the last half. There are some surprises and many new facts that keep you working towards the end.
Even the ending is a surprise.
Written well and the narration is very good.
October 13, 2025
From the second I started reading this I could not stop - it was seriously THAT good. I only give five stars when I feel a book is really, really good and this was was a winner!! Check it out for yourself!!
August 13, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I have been on and crime and thriller kick lately and was coming off a really bad read.
This one was a breath of fresh air for me. I do think the story has its issues but overall it kept me entertained.
The FMC in the current timeline is 24. We do get flash backs from when she is younger. She had never known anything else than the inside of her house. She has only ever talked to her mom and her dad. She is mute. She can hear but not speak.
Her mom is a stay at home mom and barely takes care of the FMC. It’s almost like it a burden to care for her own daughter.
The dad is a traveling salesman who is not home that often.
They have kept from sight and no one knows she even exists.
One day a new neighbor moves in named Hailey. She spots Alice in the window on accident and ends up building a friendship with Alice through conversations from their windows.
The father comes home one day and tells them that he is dying from C*ncer. As he is on his death bed he confesses to Alice that he killed a lot of people.
After he passes away Alice start to investigate his confession herself. She ends up finding his traveling sales journal which has of suspicious dating with initials written in a different way from his normal entries. Alice and Hailey set off to the nearest town to see if they have a missing persons case that matches the time frame and initials. They find out that they do. After getting the police involved there is no other option but for Alice to come out of hiding. They find out that her father was a serial killer. We also find out a huge secret that involves who Alice really is.
The way the story built up was intense. I had a feeling about who she was but was not expecting the parentage to end up the way it did. The ending made me mad. I wish it ended differently. Overall the story was really good.
I listened to the audiobook. The narrator did a great job with this story!
I have been on and crime and thriller kick lately and was coming off a really bad read.
This one was a breath of fresh air for me. I do think the story has its issues but overall it kept me entertained.
The FMC in the current timeline is 24. We do get flash backs from when she is younger. She had never known anything else than the inside of her house. She has only ever talked to her mom and her dad. She is mute. She can hear but not speak.
Her mom is a stay at home mom and barely takes care of the FMC. It’s almost like it a burden to care for her own daughter.
The dad is a traveling salesman who is not home that often.
They have kept from sight and no one knows she even exists.
One day a new neighbor moves in named Hailey. She spots Alice in the window on accident and ends up building a friendship with Alice through conversations from their windows.
The father comes home one day and tells them that he is dying from C*ncer. As he is on his death bed he confesses to Alice that he killed a lot of people.
After he passes away Alice start to investigate his confession herself. She ends up finding his traveling sales journal which has of suspicious dating with initials written in a different way from his normal entries. Alice and Hailey set off to the nearest town to see if they have a missing persons case that matches the time frame and initials. They find out that they do. After getting the police involved there is no other option but for Alice to come out of hiding. They find out that her father was a serial killer. We also find out a huge secret that involves who Alice really is.
The way the story built up was intense. I had a feeling about who she was but was not expecting the parentage to end up the way it did. The ending made me mad. I wish it ended differently. Overall the story was really good.
I listened to the audiobook. The narrator did a great job with this story!
August 29, 2025
First off, I would like to thank Datura|Datura Books and author Sandra J. Paul, for allowing me to read this novel, The Girl Without a Voice, via Netgalley. All opinions following are my own.
Alice is a prisoner and invisible. A prisoner in her home and a prisoner in her own body. Alice is mute. Her parents don't notice her, and for "her own safety," she is kept locked in her house, primarily in her bedroom. As far as she knows, no one outside of her parents and herself know of her existence.
Then she meets her new neighbor, Hailey. They secretly start communicating through their bedroom windows. It changes Alice's life for the better. So much so that when her father, a traveling salesman, comes home one day and tells her mom and her that he is dying, she is able to lean on Hailey for support.
As her father dies an agonizing death in their basement, Alice, against her mother's wishes, goes to check on him. That's when, in a stupor, he seemingly confesses to hurting and/or killing women and claims he can help her speak.
After he succumbs to his illness, Alice decides to investigate. With Hailey's help, Alice discovers shocking details about her family's secretive life.
Overall, I found this novel pretty straightforward. I didn't feel as if there were many twists and turns, but it was still creepy. Therefore, I don't think it necessarily needed the twists and turns. The ending left me with a lot of questions, but it wasn't an ambiguous ending. After thought, I decided to give this read ⭐️⭐️⭐️. I would recommend this novel for fans of realistic thrillers/mysteries because, in many ways, it read like a true crime novel.
Alice is a prisoner and invisible. A prisoner in her home and a prisoner in her own body. Alice is mute. Her parents don't notice her, and for "her own safety," she is kept locked in her house, primarily in her bedroom. As far as she knows, no one outside of her parents and herself know of her existence.
Then she meets her new neighbor, Hailey. They secretly start communicating through their bedroom windows. It changes Alice's life for the better. So much so that when her father, a traveling salesman, comes home one day and tells her mom and her that he is dying, she is able to lean on Hailey for support.
As her father dies an agonizing death in their basement, Alice, against her mother's wishes, goes to check on him. That's when, in a stupor, he seemingly confesses to hurting and/or killing women and claims he can help her speak.
After he succumbs to his illness, Alice decides to investigate. With Hailey's help, Alice discovers shocking details about her family's secretive life.
Overall, I found this novel pretty straightforward. I didn't feel as if there were many twists and turns, but it was still creepy. Therefore, I don't think it necessarily needed the twists and turns. The ending left me with a lot of questions, but it wasn't an ambiguous ending. After thought, I decided to give this read ⭐️⭐️⭐️. I would recommend this novel for fans of realistic thrillers/mysteries because, in many ways, it read like a true crime novel.
August 5, 2025
The Girl Without A Voice is a dark, chilling, twisty and unputdownable thriller that had me completely consumed. I am a sucker for a serial killer thriller and especially some death bed confessions! I loved how the fact that Alice was mute just made the whole book even more creepy and chilling. Why is she being kept isolated ? Why can't she talk ? Things are revealed slowly and perfectly. It kept me absolutely glued to the pages. It was a perfect blend of thrills, dark family secrets, self discovery and ultimately finding out the truth. I really enjoyed the entire journey the author took me on.
The characters were complex and so interesting. The secrets they held and the revelations absolutely took me by surprise. There are many twists and turns that I didn't see coming, while I had others figured out, but it did not keep me from enjoying this book at all. As much as it is a slow burn, the pace is still fast and steady throughout, never feeling like anything dragged on for too long. I really enjoyed the storyline and how the author wove her plot so expertly.
Overall, this is a great read. Original and different with twists that will keep you on your toes and a storyline that will keep you hooked.
✨ ️ Thank you to @daturabooks & @sandrajpaul for my gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
The characters were complex and so interesting. The secrets they held and the revelations absolutely took me by surprise. There are many twists and turns that I didn't see coming, while I had others figured out, but it did not keep me from enjoying this book at all. As much as it is a slow burn, the pace is still fast and steady throughout, never feeling like anything dragged on for too long. I really enjoyed the storyline and how the author wove her plot so expertly.
Overall, this is a great read. Original and different with twists that will keep you on your toes and a storyline that will keep you hooked.
✨ ️ Thank you to @daturabooks & @sandrajpaul for my gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
August 7, 2025
To be published 19 August 2025
Alice, who is mute, has always been kept away from the world by her family, so much so that no one even knows she exists. It is only until Hailey shows up next door that she even tries to communicate with another person.
When Alice's father returns from his job as a traveling salesman with terminal cancer, her whole world unravels after he confesses on his deathbed to murdering several women.
Alice goes searching for answers and there are twists upon twists throughout this book, how much did Alice's mum know? Has she always been mute or did something happen to her? What other secrets was her father hiding?
I enjoyed how Alice was initially portrayed as helpless and really comes into her own as she uncovers more and more of her fathers story.
The Girl Without a Voice was a really good psychological thriller that kept me guessing what was going to happen next.
Thanks to Netgalley for the early ARC.
Alice, who is mute, has always been kept away from the world by her family, so much so that no one even knows she exists. It is only until Hailey shows up next door that she even tries to communicate with another person.
When Alice's father returns from his job as a traveling salesman with terminal cancer, her whole world unravels after he confesses on his deathbed to murdering several women.
Alice goes searching for answers and there are twists upon twists throughout this book, how much did Alice's mum know? Has she always been mute or did something happen to her? What other secrets was her father hiding?
I enjoyed how Alice was initially portrayed as helpless and really comes into her own as she uncovers more and more of her fathers story.
The Girl Without a Voice was a really good psychological thriller that kept me guessing what was going to happen next.
Thanks to Netgalley for the early ARC.
September 6, 2025
3.5 ⭐ rounded to 4
This book has such a strong premise and it sucked me in right away. The mystery is riveting and the main character’s situation is truly compelling, making it impossible to stop listening to the story. I also felt the narration by Eve Passeltiner was truly good, so that I had to keep listening.
I have to say though, that after a while, the story starts taking a different turn and I got bored at times, wanting something more. I can’t even pinpoint what it was that changed my attitude towards the story, maybe the fact that the main mystery was solved in my mind. But, I have to say that right toward the ending, there are some turns in the story that rekindled my love and I was captivated again, especially with those very last moments.
Overall, I think this is a great mystery with dark themes, good characterisation and an engaging writing. I’m definitely going to read this author again!
Thanks to NetGalley for the audiobook and this is my honest opinion.
This book has such a strong premise and it sucked me in right away. The mystery is riveting and the main character’s situation is truly compelling, making it impossible to stop listening to the story. I also felt the narration by Eve Passeltiner was truly good, so that I had to keep listening.
I have to say though, that after a while, the story starts taking a different turn and I got bored at times, wanting something more. I can’t even pinpoint what it was that changed my attitude towards the story, maybe the fact that the main mystery was solved in my mind. But, I have to say that right toward the ending, there are some turns in the story that rekindled my love and I was captivated again, especially with those very last moments.
Overall, I think this is a great mystery with dark themes, good characterisation and an engaging writing. I’m definitely going to read this author again!
Thanks to NetGalley for the audiobook and this is my honest opinion.
August 8, 2025
The Girl Without a Voice by Sandra J Paul
*eBook ARC via NetGalley*
𝗤𝗨𝗜𝗖𝗞 𝗣𝗟𝗢𝗧 𝗣𝗘𝗘𝗞
Alice has been locked away by her controlling parents, mute and isolated from the world. Despite her silence and confinement, she refuses to be trapped in ignorance, and pushes beyond the walls of her childhood to find answers.
𝗛𝗢𝗡𝗘𝗦𝗧 𝗢𝗣𝗜𝗡𝗜𝗢𝗡
Obsessed with the book cover and premise and so glad I didn’t read the summary and blurb which I think revealed way too much of the plot!
Since Alice doesn’t speak, the audiobook was a unique listen - her voice literally doesn’t exist! Once I got over that, I noticed the narrator sounded older than I imagined. Alice is so naive, I expected her voice to reflect that more. But, it was a really strong performance overall.
The vibe is suspenseful and emotionally tense, but there’s a lightness. It’s character‑driven, bingeable and no popcorn melodrama.
Alice’s parents were horrendous, and it’s their behavior that really propels the story. Alice was such a unique character - I loved her quiet strength and felt her loneliness. Hailey was the light she needed, but I did find her a bit questionable… maybe I’m just naturally suspicious!
The story reads almost in two parts. The first half is slow suspense, and then things pick up with Alice and Hailey playing detective. But as things unfolded, nothing really surprised me.
It’s an emotional unraveling rather than a twisty “whodunnit.” I was hoping for one huge wow or twist, but apart from the ambiguous ending, it didn’t come.
𝗪𝗢𝗥𝗧𝗛 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗗?
The light eerie vibe was addictive and the suspense at the start grabbed me. Go in for the atmosphere, not the twists. Just don’t read the blurb!
Thank you Datura, Tantor Audio and NetGalley for this #gifted ARC.
🎧 Narrated by Eve Passeltiner
📖 Publishes 08•19•25 | 432 pages | 11h 8m
*eBook ARC via NetGalley*
𝗤𝗨𝗜𝗖𝗞 𝗣𝗟𝗢𝗧 𝗣𝗘𝗘𝗞
Alice has been locked away by her controlling parents, mute and isolated from the world. Despite her silence and confinement, she refuses to be trapped in ignorance, and pushes beyond the walls of her childhood to find answers.
𝗛𝗢𝗡𝗘𝗦𝗧 𝗢𝗣𝗜𝗡𝗜𝗢𝗡
Obsessed with the book cover and premise and so glad I didn’t read the summary and blurb which I think revealed way too much of the plot!
Since Alice doesn’t speak, the audiobook was a unique listen - her voice literally doesn’t exist! Once I got over that, I noticed the narrator sounded older than I imagined. Alice is so naive, I expected her voice to reflect that more. But, it was a really strong performance overall.
The vibe is suspenseful and emotionally tense, but there’s a lightness. It’s character‑driven, bingeable and no popcorn melodrama.
Alice’s parents were horrendous, and it’s their behavior that really propels the story. Alice was such a unique character - I loved her quiet strength and felt her loneliness. Hailey was the light she needed, but I did find her a bit questionable… maybe I’m just naturally suspicious!
The story reads almost in two parts. The first half is slow suspense, and then things pick up with Alice and Hailey playing detective. But as things unfolded, nothing really surprised me.
It’s an emotional unraveling rather than a twisty “whodunnit.” I was hoping for one huge wow or twist, but apart from the ambiguous ending, it didn’t come.
𝗪𝗢𝗥𝗧𝗛 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗗?
The light eerie vibe was addictive and the suspense at the start grabbed me. Go in for the atmosphere, not the twists. Just don’t read the blurb!
Thank you Datura, Tantor Audio and NetGalley for this #gifted ARC.
🎧 Narrated by Eve Passeltiner
📖 Publishes 08•19•25 | 432 pages | 11h 8m
August 19, 2025
3.5/5 ⭐ (read the ebook and listened to the audiobook)
I dove into this book without paying too much attention to the blurb. Because 1) Sandra J Paul is one of my auto-buy authors and 2) a few of the reviews said not much happened outside of what is mentioned in the blurb.
The first 40% of the book: very absurd and unbelievable, didn't quite know what to think of it. There are also various things occurring that are completely contradictory.
40%-60%: I was hooked because of things not making sense and all the red flags apparent from the very beginning.
60% - end of the book: things begin to make sense, you get more information, you can feel that everything is being set in motion. You get plottwist after plottwist, and they are very twisted, believe me. Just as I was expecting ;) at the end, you can finally see how everything fits together perfectly. Some things I predicted, others I didn't.
I would have given this book 4 stars if the first half of the book had been a bit more realistic and if some of the sentences would have been reworked to flow a bit better.
I dove into this book without paying too much attention to the blurb. Because 1) Sandra J Paul is one of my auto-buy authors and 2) a few of the reviews said not much happened outside of what is mentioned in the blurb.
The first 40% of the book: very absurd and unbelievable, didn't quite know what to think of it. There are also various things occurring that are completely contradictory.
40%-60%: I was hooked because of things not making sense and all the red flags apparent from the very beginning.
60% - end of the book: things begin to make sense, you get more information, you can feel that everything is being set in motion. You get plottwist after plottwist, and they are very twisted, believe me. Just as I was expecting ;) at the end, you can finally see how everything fits together perfectly. Some things I predicted, others I didn't.
I would have given this book 4 stars if the first half of the book had been a bit more realistic and if some of the sentences would have been reworked to flow a bit better.
September 4, 2025
The Girl Without A Voice by Sandra J. Paul is a psychological thriller that grabs hold my attention from the very first chapter. It's chilling, captivating, and brilliant. All the plot twists surprised and shook me! I would have never seen it coming! Everything tied together in the end, and there were no loose ends that felt confusing or out of place. And that epilogue? It got me still thinking about the main character’s future long after I closed the book.
This book is a haunting, twisty page-turner (I flew by the second half!) that you cannot miss! I 100% recommend it for lovers of unpredictable thrillers.
Thank you to Datura and NetGalley for sending me the e-ARC!
This book is a haunting, twisty page-turner (I flew by the second half!) that you cannot miss! I 100% recommend it for lovers of unpredictable thrillers.
Thank you to Datura and NetGalley for sending me the e-ARC!
August 6, 2025
The Girl Without A Voice is an eery story about a mute girl named Alice. Alice’s parents have kept her very sheltered and living in isolation. When her father gets ill and passes away her world gets shaken up as she learns the truth of who her parents really are.
I was quickly invested as you get the sense early on there is a lot be revealed. Is a slow burn but a quick and easy read. The characters leave you curious and with a need to understand them more.
This book is narrated by Eve Passeltiner. Narrated very well. Easy to keep up with and listen to.
I was quickly invested as you get the sense early on there is a lot be revealed. Is a slow burn but a quick and easy read. The characters leave you curious and with a need to understand them more.
This book is narrated by Eve Passeltiner. Narrated very well. Easy to keep up with and listen to.
July 28, 2025
I love a good serial killer thriller, and this one was so good. Dark, emotional, and full of twists. I couldn’t put it down. Alice’s silence made everything more haunting, and that ending gave me chills.
Tropes I loved:
🧏♀️ Mute FMC
🧬 Toxic family
💊 Deathbed confession
🛣️ Road trip mystery
🕵️♀️ Serial killer reveal
🧠 Suppressed trauma
🧑🤝🧑 Ride-or-die best friend
Tropes I loved:
🧏♀️ Mute FMC
🧬 Toxic family
💊 Deathbed confession
🛣️ Road trip mystery
🕵️♀️ Serial killer reveal
🧠 Suppressed trauma
🧑🤝🧑 Ride-or-die best friend
July 21, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️ - 3/5 STARS
this was... anticlimactic. it sounded intriguing up until i realized that the blurb IS the story. aside from some suspenseful moments and interesting plot points, there really wasn't anything to grab onto. it's not that it's a bad book, it just wasn't giving... thrill. it is a quick read though.
the first half of the book, you're pretty much learning about Alice and her invisible life. she was never let out of the home or allowed to interact with anybody outside of her parents, despite being mute. while they weren't well off, she lives comfortably tucked away. she yearns for more though. and then Hailey moves in next door. the story picks up a little from there.
i was hoping for more. it's very, very slow-burn and slow-going. i will say, though, that the author really knows how to paint a picture. it was easy to imagine the story and immerse yourself into Alice's shoes. so if you like a book where you're able to visualize it like a movie, this would be for you.
would i recommend this? depends on the audience and what recommendations they're searching for. i'm still glad i read it and would encourage those who like true crime to give it a chance. you might even enjoy it more than i did!
a big 'thank you' to Datura Books for allowing me the opportunity to read an advanced copy via NetGalley. i leave this review voluntarily. all thoughts are opinions are my own.
this was... anticlimactic. it sounded intriguing up until i realized that the blurb IS the story. aside from some suspenseful moments and interesting plot points, there really wasn't anything to grab onto. it's not that it's a bad book, it just wasn't giving... thrill. it is a quick read though.
the first half of the book, you're pretty much learning about Alice and her invisible life. she was never let out of the home or allowed to interact with anybody outside of her parents, despite being mute. while they weren't well off, she lives comfortably tucked away. she yearns for more though. and then Hailey moves in next door. the story picks up a little from there.
i was hoping for more. it's very, very slow-burn and slow-going. i will say, though, that the author really knows how to paint a picture. it was easy to imagine the story and immerse yourself into Alice's shoes. so if you like a book where you're able to visualize it like a movie, this would be for you.
would i recommend this? depends on the audience and what recommendations they're searching for. i'm still glad i read it and would encourage those who like true crime to give it a chance. you might even enjoy it more than i did!
a big 'thank you' to Datura Books for allowing me the opportunity to read an advanced copy via NetGalley. i leave this review voluntarily. all thoughts are opinions are my own.
August 13, 2025
Lately, I’ve been reading more mystery thrillers than ever before and I enjoyed this one too. While there’s definitely room for improvement, it was still a fun reading experience.
This is an ARC review. I appreciate receiving this copy from NetGalley and the publisher in return for an honest review.
This is an ARC review. I appreciate receiving this copy from NetGalley and the publisher in return for an honest review.
September 28, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and Datura Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Sandra J. Paul’s “The Girl Without a Voice” is a haunting psychological thriller set in the early 1980s, one that combines true-crime horror with the emotional weight of trauma, abuse, and self-discovery. It’s an unsettling story that takes time to find its footing but leaves a lingering impact once the full picture is revealed.
At its center is Alice, a 22-year-old woman born mute and kept hidden away inside her home for over two decades. Her world has been defined by isolation, cruelty, and lies: an alcoholic mother who treats her like a burden, a father who keeps her existence secret from the outside world, and a life confined to books and stolen glimpses of soap operas. Alice has never truly known freedom. That is, until her father’s deathbed confession exposes an even darker truth. He may have been a serial killer.
With the help of her new neighbor, Hayley, Alice sets out on a chilling investigation that forces her to confront both her family’s legacy and her own fears. The discovery of her father’s journals and missing persons cases ties her cloistered world to decades of brutal crimes. As Alice uncovers his pattern, which was murdering women who all eerily resembled her, she must also reckon with what that means about her own past and identity.
Paul excels at atmosphere. The small-town 1980s setting amplifies the sense of claustrophobia, and the story captures the raw emotions of loneliness, confusion, and longing for connection that Alice experienced throughout her entire life. Alice’s journey isn’t just about unmasking a killer; it’s about navigating the outside world for the first time, processing trauma, and grappling with trust and relationships. The romance between Alice and Hayley adds representation, though I did find it rushed, underdeveloped, and sometimes implausible given Alice’s sheltered upbringing.
I didn’t like the book’s pacing at first as I found the first half to be repetitive and was weighed down by Alice’s monotonous life indoors. The real plot didn’t kick in until nearly halfway through. Once it does, events accelerate almost too quickly, with twists tumbling out in rapid succession with some predictable, others shocking and genuinely devastating.
Where the story shines most is in its exploration of abuse, isolation, and the long shadows cast by family secrets. Alice’s father is revealed as a chilling predator, her mother complicit through neglect, and the revelations about Alice’s true origins deliver both an expected and an unexpected gut punch. The depictions of violence and trauma are dark, even graphic at times, and not for the faint of heart.
The ending is bittersweet; it’s sad, unsettling, and thought-provoking. While not every plotline lands cleanly, the final pages resonate with the themes of survival and reconciliation, leaving you haunted long after the last word.
Overall, “The Girl Without a Voice” is very original and absolutely an attention-grabber. It’s also a bleak, emotionally heavy thriller that thrives on atmosphere and psychological depth rather than neat plotting. Fans of slow-burning suspense, true-crime-inspired fiction, and character-driven psychological thrillers will find it unforgettable.
Sandra J. Paul’s “The Girl Without a Voice” is a haunting psychological thriller set in the early 1980s, one that combines true-crime horror with the emotional weight of trauma, abuse, and self-discovery. It’s an unsettling story that takes time to find its footing but leaves a lingering impact once the full picture is revealed.
At its center is Alice, a 22-year-old woman born mute and kept hidden away inside her home for over two decades. Her world has been defined by isolation, cruelty, and lies: an alcoholic mother who treats her like a burden, a father who keeps her existence secret from the outside world, and a life confined to books and stolen glimpses of soap operas. Alice has never truly known freedom. That is, until her father’s deathbed confession exposes an even darker truth. He may have been a serial killer.
With the help of her new neighbor, Hayley, Alice sets out on a chilling investigation that forces her to confront both her family’s legacy and her own fears. The discovery of her father’s journals and missing persons cases ties her cloistered world to decades of brutal crimes. As Alice uncovers his pattern, which was murdering women who all eerily resembled her, she must also reckon with what that means about her own past and identity.
Paul excels at atmosphere. The small-town 1980s setting amplifies the sense of claustrophobia, and the story captures the raw emotions of loneliness, confusion, and longing for connection that Alice experienced throughout her entire life. Alice’s journey isn’t just about unmasking a killer; it’s about navigating the outside world for the first time, processing trauma, and grappling with trust and relationships. The romance between Alice and Hayley adds representation, though I did find it rushed, underdeveloped, and sometimes implausible given Alice’s sheltered upbringing.
I didn’t like the book’s pacing at first as I found the first half to be repetitive and was weighed down by Alice’s monotonous life indoors. The real plot didn’t kick in until nearly halfway through. Once it does, events accelerate almost too quickly, with twists tumbling out in rapid succession with some predictable, others shocking and genuinely devastating.
Where the story shines most is in its exploration of abuse, isolation, and the long shadows cast by family secrets. Alice’s father is revealed as a chilling predator, her mother complicit through neglect, and the revelations about Alice’s true origins deliver both an expected and an unexpected gut punch. The depictions of violence and trauma are dark, even graphic at times, and not for the faint of heart.
The ending is bittersweet; it’s sad, unsettling, and thought-provoking. While not every plotline lands cleanly, the final pages resonate with the themes of survival and reconciliation, leaving you haunted long after the last word.
Overall, “The Girl Without a Voice” is very original and absolutely an attention-grabber. It’s also a bleak, emotionally heavy thriller that thrives on atmosphere and psychological depth rather than neat plotting. Fans of slow-burning suspense, true-crime-inspired fiction, and character-driven psychological thrillers will find it unforgettable.
July 31, 2025
Release: August 19, 2025
Author: Sandra J. Paul
Publisher: Datura
Rating: 4 ★
Set in the fall of 1980, this story follows Alice, a 22-year-old woman who was born mute and has lived an extremely sheltered and isolated life under the control of her cold, manipulative mother and her strict, intimidating father. Her only connection to the outside world is through her neighbor and best friend, Hailey, who knows sign language and offers Alice a rare sense of comfort and trust.
When Alice’s father falls gravely ill with terminal cancer, she is tasked with taking care of him. During his final days, as he drifts in and out of consciousness under heavy medication, he starts revealing chilling secrets—specifically, that he may have murdered multiple women. At first, Alice doesn’t know what to believe, but the weight of the revelation pushes her to confide in Hailey.
The two set out to retrace the paths her father once traveled as a salesman, and what they uncover suggests a disturbing pattern that links him to several missing women. As they dig deeper, the truth starts to unravel not just about his crimes, but about Alice herself—especially why she lost her voice in the first place, and how her own past is more connected to her father’s dark secrets than she ever realized.
This is a tense and emotional psychological mystery that blends true-crime elements with a coming-of-age reckoning, perfect for readers who enjoy deeply layered characters and slow-burning suspense like Bright Young Women.
This book completely pulled me in! I had a hard time putting it down once I started. The story follows Alice, a young woman who was born mute and has been hidden away from the world by her controlling parents. She’s been told that if anyone ever found out about her, she’d be locked up. So she’s grown up in total isolation—until a new neighbor, Hailey, moves in next door. Slowly, a quiet friendship forms between them, and when Alice’s father dies and makes a shocking confession, the two girls set out to uncover the truth about his past.
The pacing is fast and steady—it never felt like it dragged—and the relationship between Alice and Hailey is the emotional heart of the book. There’s suspense, mystery, and some truly surprising moments, especially toward the end. At times it did feel a bit like a young adult mystery (think Nancy Drew with darker twists), and there were moments where I had to suspend a bit of disbelief, especially about how quickly Alice jumps into investigating. But overall, it was such a compelling read that I didn’t mind.
If you’re into emotional thrillers with strong characters and a touch of coming-of-age, this one’s worth picking up. It’s a story about secrets, friendship, and finding your voice—even when you can’t speak.
Favorite quote:
"Kept from the outside world by her cruel mother and overbearing father, her only friend is her neighbor Hailey with whom she communicates through sign language."
https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/1...
https://app.thestorygraph.com/profile...
https://www.tiktok.com/@cc.readsss1?_...
Author: Sandra J. Paul
Publisher: Datura
Rating: 4 ★
Set in the fall of 1980, this story follows Alice, a 22-year-old woman who was born mute and has lived an extremely sheltered and isolated life under the control of her cold, manipulative mother and her strict, intimidating father. Her only connection to the outside world is through her neighbor and best friend, Hailey, who knows sign language and offers Alice a rare sense of comfort and trust.
When Alice’s father falls gravely ill with terminal cancer, she is tasked with taking care of him. During his final days, as he drifts in and out of consciousness under heavy medication, he starts revealing chilling secrets—specifically, that he may have murdered multiple women. At first, Alice doesn’t know what to believe, but the weight of the revelation pushes her to confide in Hailey.
The two set out to retrace the paths her father once traveled as a salesman, and what they uncover suggests a disturbing pattern that links him to several missing women. As they dig deeper, the truth starts to unravel not just about his crimes, but about Alice herself—especially why she lost her voice in the first place, and how her own past is more connected to her father’s dark secrets than she ever realized.
This is a tense and emotional psychological mystery that blends true-crime elements with a coming-of-age reckoning, perfect for readers who enjoy deeply layered characters and slow-burning suspense like Bright Young Women.
This book completely pulled me in! I had a hard time putting it down once I started. The story follows Alice, a young woman who was born mute and has been hidden away from the world by her controlling parents. She’s been told that if anyone ever found out about her, she’d be locked up. So she’s grown up in total isolation—until a new neighbor, Hailey, moves in next door. Slowly, a quiet friendship forms between them, and when Alice’s father dies and makes a shocking confession, the two girls set out to uncover the truth about his past.
The pacing is fast and steady—it never felt like it dragged—and the relationship between Alice and Hailey is the emotional heart of the book. There’s suspense, mystery, and some truly surprising moments, especially toward the end. At times it did feel a bit like a young adult mystery (think Nancy Drew with darker twists), and there were moments where I had to suspend a bit of disbelief, especially about how quickly Alice jumps into investigating. But overall, it was such a compelling read that I didn’t mind.
If you’re into emotional thrillers with strong characters and a touch of coming-of-age, this one’s worth picking up. It’s a story about secrets, friendship, and finding your voice—even when you can’t speak.
Favorite quote:
"Kept from the outside world by her cruel mother and overbearing father, her only friend is her neighbor Hailey with whom she communicates through sign language."
https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/1...
https://app.thestorygraph.com/profile...
https://www.tiktok.com/@cc.readsss1?_...
August 13, 2025
Author: Sandra J. Paul
Book Name: The Girl Without a Voice
Publication Date: August 19, 2025
Genre: Mystery & Thriller
Publisher: Datura Books
Thank you note:
Thank you to NetGalley and Datura Books for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Description:
Set in the fall of 1980, isolated mute Alice comes upon a startling discovery that her father may be a serial killer... A sharp read for lovers of true crime and Bright Young Women by Jessica Knoll.
Born mute, Alice has never known a normal life. Kept from the outside world by her cruel mother and overbearing father, her only friend is her neighbour Hailey with whom she communicates through sign language.
When Alice’s father is diagnosed with terminal cancer, Alice listens to his feverish drug-induced ramblings. And then, in his final days, he reveals something Alice never expected. He confesses to murdering several women.
Shocked and disbelieving, Alice confides in Hailey. Together, they vow to find the truth and decide to journey her father’s old routes as a travelling salesman. A pattern begins to emerge, connecting him to various missing women, before the pair discovers the real reason why Alice lost her ability to speak. And how she is at the centre of her father’s crimes…
My Thoughts:
This is a chilling, intense serial killer story with the grit of a true crime thriller. From the very first page, I felt the fear, isolation, and pain that Alice has endured all her life. I was truly sorry for her, and at times, I was shivering in fear for both Alice and Elizabeth. The final line—“I’m his daughter”—hit like a punch to the heart 💔.
In a world filled with violence, abuse, and serial killings, there are still silent women who protect and save each other. Eileen, Elizabeth, and Hailey shine as quiet, determined fighters in the darkness, and I loved their courage.
The way the story unravels is masterful—layer by layer, secret by secret—pulling you deeper into the suspense. Sandra J. Paul has written a haunting and unforgettable thriller that lingers long after you finish.
Recommendation:
⭐ 4/5 – Perfect for fans of dark suspense, psychological thrillers, and true crime fiction.
⚠ Trigger Warnings: rape, sexual violence, child abuse, suicide, murder.
#TheGirlWithoutaVoice #SandraJPaul #NetGalley #DaturaBooks #MysteryThriller #BookReview
Book Name: The Girl Without a Voice
Publication Date: August 19, 2025
Genre: Mystery & Thriller
Publisher: Datura Books
Thank you note:
Thank you to NetGalley and Datura Books for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Description:
Set in the fall of 1980, isolated mute Alice comes upon a startling discovery that her father may be a serial killer... A sharp read for lovers of true crime and Bright Young Women by Jessica Knoll.
Born mute, Alice has never known a normal life. Kept from the outside world by her cruel mother and overbearing father, her only friend is her neighbour Hailey with whom she communicates through sign language.
When Alice’s father is diagnosed with terminal cancer, Alice listens to his feverish drug-induced ramblings. And then, in his final days, he reveals something Alice never expected. He confesses to murdering several women.
Shocked and disbelieving, Alice confides in Hailey. Together, they vow to find the truth and decide to journey her father’s old routes as a travelling salesman. A pattern begins to emerge, connecting him to various missing women, before the pair discovers the real reason why Alice lost her ability to speak. And how she is at the centre of her father’s crimes…
My Thoughts:
This is a chilling, intense serial killer story with the grit of a true crime thriller. From the very first page, I felt the fear, isolation, and pain that Alice has endured all her life. I was truly sorry for her, and at times, I was shivering in fear for both Alice and Elizabeth. The final line—“I’m his daughter”—hit like a punch to the heart 💔.
In a world filled with violence, abuse, and serial killings, there are still silent women who protect and save each other. Eileen, Elizabeth, and Hailey shine as quiet, determined fighters in the darkness, and I loved their courage.
The way the story unravels is masterful—layer by layer, secret by secret—pulling you deeper into the suspense. Sandra J. Paul has written a haunting and unforgettable thriller that lingers long after you finish.
Recommendation:
⭐ 4/5 – Perfect for fans of dark suspense, psychological thrillers, and true crime fiction.
⚠ Trigger Warnings: rape, sexual violence, child abuse, suicide, murder.
#TheGirlWithoutaVoice #SandraJPaul #NetGalley #DaturaBooks #MysteryThriller #BookReview
October 8, 2025
A haunting blend of 80s horror nostalgia, true-crime chills, and Sandra J. Paul’s trademark emotional depth. Dark, atmospheric, and absolutely gripping once it hits its stride!!
The year is 1980. The wallpaper is probably yellowing, the TV buzzes with static, and there’s a chill in the air that has nothing to do with the weather. Enter Alice, mute, isolated, and unknowingly living in what might as well be the creepiest house ever seen on the first five minutes of a Supernatural episode.
As someone who grew up on a steady diet of 80s horror, this setting had me immediately intrigued. Give me eerie small-town vibes, unsettling family secrets, and a protagonist who’s just starting to realize that her life is a carefully constructed lie, and I’m sold!!
This isn’t my first Sandra J. Paul book, and honestly, I just love how she writes darkness. Her prose is quiet but sharp, the kind that lures you in with an eerie calm before slicing you open with a single twist. And oh, let me tell you, there are twists ;)
The first half of the book moves like a whisper, slow and deliberate, building tension in the silence of Alice’s home. You can practically hear the ticking clock and the hum of the fridge. But once her father starts spilling secrets on his deathbed? Buckle up. Because the second half? That’s when the book grabs you by the throat and doesn’t let go.
The plot goes from “girl in the attic” gothic to “what do you mean my father might’ve been a serial killer” levels of psychological horror, and it’s fantastic. It’s grim, it’s emotional, and it’s got that true-crime energy that makes you want to read through your fingers.
Alice’s search for the truth and her voice makes for a deeply unsettling yet oddly empowering journey. I did wish the romance subplot with Hailey had been developed a bit more, because it sometimes pulled focus from the absolute storm of revelations crashing down around Alice. But emotionally, the story lands right where it needs to.
This is not a neat book. It’s not an easy one either. But it is the kind that lingers, whispering questions about identity, trauma, and survival long after you’ve closed it...
The year is 1980. The wallpaper is probably yellowing, the TV buzzes with static, and there’s a chill in the air that has nothing to do with the weather. Enter Alice, mute, isolated, and unknowingly living in what might as well be the creepiest house ever seen on the first five minutes of a Supernatural episode.
As someone who grew up on a steady diet of 80s horror, this setting had me immediately intrigued. Give me eerie small-town vibes, unsettling family secrets, and a protagonist who’s just starting to realize that her life is a carefully constructed lie, and I’m sold!!
This isn’t my first Sandra J. Paul book, and honestly, I just love how she writes darkness. Her prose is quiet but sharp, the kind that lures you in with an eerie calm before slicing you open with a single twist. And oh, let me tell you, there are twists ;)
The first half of the book moves like a whisper, slow and deliberate, building tension in the silence of Alice’s home. You can practically hear the ticking clock and the hum of the fridge. But once her father starts spilling secrets on his deathbed? Buckle up. Because the second half? That’s when the book grabs you by the throat and doesn’t let go.
The plot goes from “girl in the attic” gothic to “what do you mean my father might’ve been a serial killer” levels of psychological horror, and it’s fantastic. It’s grim, it’s emotional, and it’s got that true-crime energy that makes you want to read through your fingers.
Alice’s search for the truth and her voice makes for a deeply unsettling yet oddly empowering journey. I did wish the romance subplot with Hailey had been developed a bit more, because it sometimes pulled focus from the absolute storm of revelations crashing down around Alice. But emotionally, the story lands right where it needs to.
This is not a neat book. It’s not an easy one either. But it is the kind that lingers, whispering questions about identity, trauma, and survival long after you’ve closed it...
August 1, 2025
Rating: ★★★★☆ (3.75/5)
The Girl Without a Voice starts with a compelling hook and a deeply atmospheric setup. Sandra J. Paul draws us into the life of Alice, a twenty-two-year-old woman born mute and isolated by her controlling parents. From the beginning, the story promises a gripping psychological mystery with emotional weight — and for the most part, it delivers.
The audiobook performance by Eve Passeltiner is truly a standout. Her narration is top-tier, elevating the entire experience. She brings nuance and life to Alice’s world, making it easy to follow the complex emotional shifts in the plot. Narrators can make or break an audiobook, and Passeltiner absolutely makes it. Her portrayal of both the quiet intensity and tender moments gives the story extra depth.
The early chapters are fantastic — tense, mysterious, and emotionally resonant. Alice’s bond with her only friend Hailey is tender and well-drawn, and the shocking confession from her dying father sets the stage for a chilling journey. I was convinced I was heading into a five-star read.
However, the momentum starts to lag in the middle. The pacing slows significantly, and the narrative leans more heavily into romance than I had anticipated. While the relationship between Alice and Hailey is sweet and heartwarming, I found myself wanting the thriller elements to maintain more of the focus. That said, their love story adds emotional stakes that are meaningful — even if it wasn’t quite what I was expecting.
As the mystery unfolds, the story regains its tension, culminating in an unsettling truth about Alice’s past and the true horror at the center of her silence. Paul weaves these revelations with care, offering a haunting reflection on trauma and identity.
Overall, The Girl Without a Voice is a dark, emotionally charged listen that blends psychological suspense with romance and personal healing. While the pacing dips in the middle, the strong narration and powerful themes make it worth the journey.
The Girl Without a Voice starts with a compelling hook and a deeply atmospheric setup. Sandra J. Paul draws us into the life of Alice, a twenty-two-year-old woman born mute and isolated by her controlling parents. From the beginning, the story promises a gripping psychological mystery with emotional weight — and for the most part, it delivers.
The audiobook performance by Eve Passeltiner is truly a standout. Her narration is top-tier, elevating the entire experience. She brings nuance and life to Alice’s world, making it easy to follow the complex emotional shifts in the plot. Narrators can make or break an audiobook, and Passeltiner absolutely makes it. Her portrayal of both the quiet intensity and tender moments gives the story extra depth.
The early chapters are fantastic — tense, mysterious, and emotionally resonant. Alice’s bond with her only friend Hailey is tender and well-drawn, and the shocking confession from her dying father sets the stage for a chilling journey. I was convinced I was heading into a five-star read.
However, the momentum starts to lag in the middle. The pacing slows significantly, and the narrative leans more heavily into romance than I had anticipated. While the relationship between Alice and Hailey is sweet and heartwarming, I found myself wanting the thriller elements to maintain more of the focus. That said, their love story adds emotional stakes that are meaningful — even if it wasn’t quite what I was expecting.
As the mystery unfolds, the story regains its tension, culminating in an unsettling truth about Alice’s past and the true horror at the center of her silence. Paul weaves these revelations with care, offering a haunting reflection on trauma and identity.
Overall, The Girl Without a Voice is a dark, emotionally charged listen that blends psychological suspense with romance and personal healing. While the pacing dips in the middle, the strong narration and powerful themes make it worth the journey.
August 4, 2025
First of all, thanks to NetGalley and Datura Books for giving me the opportunity to read an advance copy of "The Girl Without A Voice'. Opinions expressed in this reviews are completely my own.
I started reading this book with high expectations, but unfortunately it didn't live up to them. The plot seemed so promising: a mute girl who has lived all her life hidden by her parents, unable to experience the real world. Once Hailey, the new neighbour arrives, she notices her and everything changes for Alice, our main character. After Alice's dad death, she discovers some dark secrets of his past through his diaries and, running away with Hailey, she starts a journey in search for the truth. Alice knew his father was bad, but would he be able to kill?
My problem with "The Girl Without A Voice" is how unrealistic it is, starting with the fact that Alice is not a girl anymore, she's 24, and she's alone at home in many occasions, so why doesn't she run away and tell the world what happened to her? She's not completely isolated (she knows about the outside world through books, radio and television) and she can communicate with others (ASL and writing), so she could perfectly go outside and report her situation. Also, why didn't Hailey, another 20-year-old, call the police as soon as she finds out about Alice's confinement? Although we get that question answered at the end, it had me confused through all the book.
I liked how the story took place in the 80s, so there were so many things different than now and everything is so analogic (the journals are proof and their way to discover what happened is through newspapers and talking to people).
As for the characters, they didn't seem realistic to me. Alice was not as interesting as it could have been and her mother and father lack depth, there are so many things that felt off about the family situation.
The best part was the beginning and, as you get deeper in the story, it lost interest to me. It's an original book but wasn't worth it that much.
I started reading this book with high expectations, but unfortunately it didn't live up to them. The plot seemed so promising: a mute girl who has lived all her life hidden by her parents, unable to experience the real world. Once Hailey, the new neighbour arrives, she notices her and everything changes for Alice, our main character. After Alice's dad death, she discovers some dark secrets of his past through his diaries and, running away with Hailey, she starts a journey in search for the truth. Alice knew his father was bad, but would he be able to kill?
My problem with "The Girl Without A Voice" is how unrealistic it is, starting with the fact that Alice is not a girl anymore, she's 24, and she's alone at home in many occasions, so why doesn't she run away and tell the world what happened to her? She's not completely isolated (she knows about the outside world through books, radio and television) and she can communicate with others (ASL and writing), so she could perfectly go outside and report her situation. Also, why didn't Hailey, another 20-year-old, call the police as soon as she finds out about Alice's confinement? Although we get that question answered at the end, it had me confused through all the book.
I liked how the story took place in the 80s, so there were so many things different than now and everything is so analogic (the journals are proof and their way to discover what happened is through newspapers and talking to people).
As for the characters, they didn't seem realistic to me. Alice was not as interesting as it could have been and her mother and father lack depth, there are so many things that felt off about the family situation.
The best part was the beginning and, as you get deeper in the story, it lost interest to me. It's an original book but wasn't worth it that much.
July 18, 2025
So Alice is not twenty-two as described in the blurb, since her twenty-fourth birthday is referenced several times as being in the past. Just had to get that out there, first. Second, the blurb pretty much gives away the entire story, and any sharp reader will infer the rest. So I was hoping that there would be more revealed in the story as a surprise, but unfortunately, there wasn't.
Alice is mute and kept locked up in her house, never having left except to go out in the garden. Even she comes to realize eventually that this isn't' normal but she doesn't rebel or escape, she just accepts that this is her life. She sees a new neighbor, Hailey, and they communicate through their windows, and apparently also fall in love at first sight. Yeah, it's also part love story.
Alice's father dies, again, not a spoiler, and right before doing so, rambles about what he did to the others. Not exactly a murder confession, but strange enough that Alice goes through his belongings and finds his journals from his years as a traveling salesman. Also, this is set around 1980, one of the few details not referenced in the blurb. And also, her father doesn't die until halfway through the story, and it's very slow-paced until that point. Alice and Hailey go through the journals and believe they find clues to crimes he committed every year. Rather than hand it over to the police, and you know, tell the world what happened to her, they go on a road trip to see if they can find 'real evidence' before turning to the authorities. Sure.
So that's about it, and I'm sure you realize, to some degree, why she was rendered mute. If you're looking for a satisfying conclusion, you won't get one. It seriously just ends, and you're like, I read this entire story to end up with that conclusion?? Highly frustrating. This could have been executed in a much better way. There's barely any action and no suspense. And then it ends. No, thank you.
Alice is mute and kept locked up in her house, never having left except to go out in the garden. Even she comes to realize eventually that this isn't' normal but she doesn't rebel or escape, she just accepts that this is her life. She sees a new neighbor, Hailey, and they communicate through their windows, and apparently also fall in love at first sight. Yeah, it's also part love story.
Alice's father dies, again, not a spoiler, and right before doing so, rambles about what he did to the others. Not exactly a murder confession, but strange enough that Alice goes through his belongings and finds his journals from his years as a traveling salesman. Also, this is set around 1980, one of the few details not referenced in the blurb. And also, her father doesn't die until halfway through the story, and it's very slow-paced until that point. Alice and Hailey go through the journals and believe they find clues to crimes he committed every year. Rather than hand it over to the police, and you know, tell the world what happened to her, they go on a road trip to see if they can find 'real evidence' before turning to the authorities. Sure.
So that's about it, and I'm sure you realize, to some degree, why she was rendered mute. If you're looking for a satisfying conclusion, you won't get one. It seriously just ends, and you're like, I read this entire story to end up with that conclusion?? Highly frustrating. This could have been executed in a much better way. There's barely any action and no suspense. And then it ends. No, thank you.
August 7, 2025
This shocking story follows Alice, a mute woman who has grown up confined to walls of her home with a distant mother, and a traveling salesman for a father who is only home on the weekends. With only books and tv characters to keep her company, Alice has never known any one else— that is until the strange family gets a new neighbor.
Haley, whose window mirrors Alice’s, begins to learn sign language in order to befriend Alice. As their friendship blossoms into something more, Alice’s father returns home for a final weekend, announcing that his cancer (an illness that was kept secret from Alice) is finally taking over.
On his death bed, he says things to Alice that lead her to believe that her father may have done unspeakable things during his travels for the last twenty-some years. When he dies, and Alice’s mother is arrested for suspicion of having aided in his death, Alice seeks help from the only person she has left.
Together, the two women set out on a roadtrip to seek evidence of Alice’s worst fear… her father was a serial killer.
The relationship written between Alice and her parents— especially her mother— is wildly complex and tragic. Alice carries a lot of loyalty to her parents, and has been trained to obey them, and do as she’s told. So, when her basic morality kicks in, encouraging her to do the right thing, Alice is torn with shame.
Her blossoming connection with Haley sits in a vibrant contrast of first love, and innocence. With the subtle fear of what it meant to be openly queer in the Eighties, and her inexperience in relationships all together, Alice is lost in navigating her feelings. But Haley is kind, and supportive of Alice the whole way.
The pacing, layered clues, and unique perspective of the voiceless main character, kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time. I highly recommend reading the trigger warnings for this one, but if you can stomach it, it’s definitely worth the read!
Haley, whose window mirrors Alice’s, begins to learn sign language in order to befriend Alice. As their friendship blossoms into something more, Alice’s father returns home for a final weekend, announcing that his cancer (an illness that was kept secret from Alice) is finally taking over.
On his death bed, he says things to Alice that lead her to believe that her father may have done unspeakable things during his travels for the last twenty-some years. When he dies, and Alice’s mother is arrested for suspicion of having aided in his death, Alice seeks help from the only person she has left.
Together, the two women set out on a roadtrip to seek evidence of Alice’s worst fear… her father was a serial killer.
The relationship written between Alice and her parents— especially her mother— is wildly complex and tragic. Alice carries a lot of loyalty to her parents, and has been trained to obey them, and do as she’s told. So, when her basic morality kicks in, encouraging her to do the right thing, Alice is torn with shame.
Her blossoming connection with Haley sits in a vibrant contrast of first love, and innocence. With the subtle fear of what it meant to be openly queer in the Eighties, and her inexperience in relationships all together, Alice is lost in navigating her feelings. But Haley is kind, and supportive of Alice the whole way.
The pacing, layered clues, and unique perspective of the voiceless main character, kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time. I highly recommend reading the trigger warnings for this one, but if you can stomach it, it’s definitely worth the read!
August 15, 2025
The Girl Without A Voice
Sandra J. Paul
Datura Books
08/19/2025
It’s 1980 and Alice, now 24, has been sequestered inside of the walls of her home. She has been told she is different, unable to survive in the world without her parents. She is given books, records, an at home education from her mother and on occasion, she can sneak a television show. As Alice grows up, she picks up on patterns, her mother is an alcoholic, her father is a travelling salesman and rarely at home, but when he is there nothing good happens. Alice finally makes a friend when she gets a new neighbor, Hailey. They talk through the windows and sneak to get to know one another, and Alice finally has something/someone to look forward to; to talk to, to confide in and to have feelings for.
Everything she knows is turned upside down when Alice’s father comes home from work and announces that he is dying from cancer. One evening when in pain, his almost incoherent ramblings lead Alice to believe that her father has killed several women. Alice cannot believe it, but after finding ledgers going back 30 years, she decides to go with Hailey and try to uncover the truth.
The Girl Without a Voice is a chilling, full-throttle psychological thriller that blends the grit of true crime with the intimacy of a deeply personal journey. From the very first page, Sandra J. Paul drops you into Alice’s suffocating world—isolated, voiceless, and caged by the dark family secrets that have defined her life. The road-trip investigation into his past, the slow-burn reveal of each horrifying truth is as tense as it is devastating. Every discovery brings new terror that cuts deeper, and watching Alice grow, change, and fight to endure—and finally understand—the life she’s been forced to live is as haunting as the serial killer story that frames it. This is darkness done right: layered, relentless, and impossible to shake.
Sandra J. Paul
Datura Books
08/19/2025
It’s 1980 and Alice, now 24, has been sequestered inside of the walls of her home. She has been told she is different, unable to survive in the world without her parents. She is given books, records, an at home education from her mother and on occasion, she can sneak a television show. As Alice grows up, she picks up on patterns, her mother is an alcoholic, her father is a travelling salesman and rarely at home, but when he is there nothing good happens. Alice finally makes a friend when she gets a new neighbor, Hailey. They talk through the windows and sneak to get to know one another, and Alice finally has something/someone to look forward to; to talk to, to confide in and to have feelings for.
Everything she knows is turned upside down when Alice’s father comes home from work and announces that he is dying from cancer. One evening when in pain, his almost incoherent ramblings lead Alice to believe that her father has killed several women. Alice cannot believe it, but after finding ledgers going back 30 years, she decides to go with Hailey and try to uncover the truth.
The Girl Without a Voice is a chilling, full-throttle psychological thriller that blends the grit of true crime with the intimacy of a deeply personal journey. From the very first page, Sandra J. Paul drops you into Alice’s suffocating world—isolated, voiceless, and caged by the dark family secrets that have defined her life. The road-trip investigation into his past, the slow-burn reveal of each horrifying truth is as tense as it is devastating. Every discovery brings new terror that cuts deeper, and watching Alice grow, change, and fight to endure—and finally understand—the life she’s been forced to live is as haunting as the serial killer story that frames it. This is darkness done right: layered, relentless, and impossible to shake.
August 12, 2025
*2.5
Thank you Netgalley for this arc.
I wanted to like this book so badly. The plot sounded interesting and I love a book with queer and disability representation. However, when reading it I was disappointed to discover that the whole plot was basically written out in the summary. I still decided to continue reading, and I did enjoy parts, but since I already knew basically everything that would happen, it just felt disappointing.
The disability representation also felt like a let down to me.
I am not mute, so maybe I am wrong on this and maybe the author is mute or has had good sensitivity readers on this, however to me Alice's disability just felt like a plot device instead of an actual real part of her character.
Furthermore I have to comment on the audiobook part of this, since it is an audiobook arc. Sadly the narration felt weirdly stilted and not very natural, which I was kind of disappointed in.
Towards the end I was planning on giving it 3.5 stars, but the very end disappointed me a lot. This next part includes spoilers but I still found it important to include:
Thank you Netgalley for this arc.
I wanted to like this book so badly. The plot sounded interesting and I love a book with queer and disability representation. However, when reading it I was disappointed to discover that the whole plot was basically written out in the summary. I still decided to continue reading, and I did enjoy parts, but since I already knew basically everything that would happen, it just felt disappointing.
The disability representation also felt like a let down to me.
I am not mute, so maybe I am wrong on this and maybe the author is mute or has had good sensitivity readers on this, however to me Alice's disability just felt like a plot device instead of an actual real part of her character.
Furthermore I have to comment on the audiobook part of this, since it is an audiobook arc. Sadly the narration felt weirdly stilted and not very natural, which I was kind of disappointed in.
Towards the end I was planning on giving it 3.5 stars, but the very end disappointed me a lot. This next part includes spoilers but I still found it important to include:
August 1, 2025
https://www.instagram.com/brookebooks...
🎧 4.5 Stars — THE GIRL WITHOUT A VOICE by Sandra J. Paul
Release Date: 8/19 | Thank you @Macmillan.Audio for the advanced listen!
I went into this one blind and finished emotionally wrecked (and a little obsessed). Set in the fall of 1980, this story follows Alice—a 22-year-old mute woman who’s been isolated her entire life by her controlling parents. But when her father starts confessing to multiple murders on his deathbed, things spiral fast.
With the help of her only friend (and possible soulmate?) Hailey, Alice hits the road to retrace her father’s past as a traveling salesman. What unfolds is part true crime puzzle, part sapphic slow burn, and entirely haunting.
This one gave Bright Young Women vibes, but with its own dark, emotional twist. The writing is sharp, the pacing is addictive, and the reveal? Gutting. I loved how the sapphic love story was woven in—it was quiet, sad, and so beautiful.
The audiobook? Phenomenal. The narration pulled me in and never let go. Highly recommend going the audio route when this releases 8/19.
For fans of slow-burn thrillers, road trip mysteries, and books that punch you right in the heart.
#TheGirlWithoutAVoice #SandraJPaul #MacmillanAudio #ARCReview #ThrillerReads #AudiobookReview #BrightYoungWomenVibes #SapphicThriller #FallReads #BookstagramRecs #UpcomingThriller #AdvancedListenerCopy #BooktokThriller
🎧 4.5 Stars — THE GIRL WITHOUT A VOICE by Sandra J. Paul
Release Date: 8/19 | Thank you @Macmillan.Audio for the advanced listen!
I went into this one blind and finished emotionally wrecked (and a little obsessed). Set in the fall of 1980, this story follows Alice—a 22-year-old mute woman who’s been isolated her entire life by her controlling parents. But when her father starts confessing to multiple murders on his deathbed, things spiral fast.
With the help of her only friend (and possible soulmate?) Hailey, Alice hits the road to retrace her father’s past as a traveling salesman. What unfolds is part true crime puzzle, part sapphic slow burn, and entirely haunting.
This one gave Bright Young Women vibes, but with its own dark, emotional twist. The writing is sharp, the pacing is addictive, and the reveal? Gutting. I loved how the sapphic love story was woven in—it was quiet, sad, and so beautiful.
The audiobook? Phenomenal. The narration pulled me in and never let go. Highly recommend going the audio route when this releases 8/19.
For fans of slow-burn thrillers, road trip mysteries, and books that punch you right in the heart.
#TheGirlWithoutAVoice #SandraJPaul #MacmillanAudio #ARCReview #ThrillerReads #AudiobookReview #BrightYoungWomenVibes #SapphicThriller #FallReads #BookstagramRecs #UpcomingThriller #AdvancedListenerCopy #BooktokThriller
Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews