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Silent Creek
When life takes your identity, you make a new one.
Walking off the grid in search of safety from the ex who stole her life, Josie Sawyer is dumped into the deep end. Her late uncle’s mountain homestead comes with responsibility for his elderly friend, and Josie’s finances are quickly strained by a medical emergency and the aging property’s mounting repairs.
She needs help and money—fast.
Determined to put his criminal past behind him, Everett O’Reagan has vowed to build a better life for himself and his daughter. So, he jumps at the chance to work for Josie as the homestead’s live-in handyman. But between trying to dodge the nosy local sheriff and appease his caseworker, Everett’s new reputation is on shaky ground.
Nevertheless, a cautious bond forms between Josie and her new tenants, and the friendship leaves her hoping she might repair her sense of human connection. But when suspicious activity on her property points to a dangerous trespasser, a dark discovery shatters Josie’s blooming trust.
Maybe a secure life with a new family was just a fool’s hope in Silent Creek…
Walking off the grid in search of safety from the ex who stole her life, Josie Sawyer is dumped into the deep end. Her late uncle’s mountain homestead comes with responsibility for his elderly friend, and Josie’s finances are quickly strained by a medical emergency and the aging property’s mounting repairs.
She needs help and money—fast.
Determined to put his criminal past behind him, Everett O’Reagan has vowed to build a better life for himself and his daughter. So, he jumps at the chance to work for Josie as the homestead’s live-in handyman. But between trying to dodge the nosy local sheriff and appease his caseworker, Everett’s new reputation is on shaky ground.
Nevertheless, a cautious bond forms between Josie and her new tenants, and the friendship leaves her hoping she might repair her sense of human connection. But when suspicious activity on her property points to a dangerous trespasser, a dark discovery shatters Josie’s blooming trust.
Maybe a secure life with a new family was just a fool’s hope in Silent Creek…
- GenresMystery
381 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 25, 2025
2 people are currently reading
32 people want to read
About the author
Jean M. Grant
12 books354 followersJean has a penchant for the misunderstood, be it sharks, microbes, or wounded characters. A scientist by training, she now spends her days as an author and champion for her children. She draws from her interest in history, science, the outdoors, and her family for inspiration. She serves on the local library board of trustees and is an advocate for community, inclusion, and diversity. Her books span the genres of historical romance (with mystical elements), contemporary romance, women’s fiction, suspense, road trip, smalltown, and friendship fiction.
A nature enthusiast who adores the national parks, Jean also writes for family-oriented travel magazines and websites. When not writing, she enjoys gardening, tackling the biggest mountains in New England, and going on adventures with her husband and children, while taking snapshots of the world around her and daydreaming about the next story. If she were stuck on a deserted island, her three essentials (besides family, food, water, shelter) would be: coffee, lip balm, and endless pink sticky notes.
Find out more about her books by visiting her website: www.jeanmgrant.com
A nature enthusiast who adores the national parks, Jean also writes for family-oriented travel magazines and websites. When not writing, she enjoys gardening, tackling the biggest mountains in New England, and going on adventures with her husband and children, while taking snapshots of the world around her and daydreaming about the next story. If she were stuck on a deserted island, her three essentials (besides family, food, water, shelter) would be: coffee, lip balm, and endless pink sticky notes.
Find out more about her books by visiting her website: www.jeanmgrant.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
May 23, 2025
3.5 – 4 stars
Jean M. Grant presents an intriguing tale that is full of suspense and tension. The story is narrated from multiple points of view, providing readers with a multilayered experience that is both heartfelt, and a little angsty.
Silent Creek sees two people seeking solitude and anonymity of the mountains, one to escape her ex-partner who caused her significant turmoil and one to leave his past in the past and make a new life with this daughter.
Josie takes over her late uncle's off-grid homestead, but she soon realizes that the mountains hold secrets and things are not as perfect as they seem.
Amidst everything else going on the foundation here is about one woman learning to trust again.
To discover the answers, you’ll have to read the book. Silent Creek is one of those stories that allows you to get lost in its narrative. Having never read anything by this author before, I was pleasantly surprised by what I found.
Jean M. Grant presents an intriguing tale that is full of suspense and tension. The story is narrated from multiple points of view, providing readers with a multilayered experience that is both heartfelt, and a little angsty.
Silent Creek sees two people seeking solitude and anonymity of the mountains, one to escape her ex-partner who caused her significant turmoil and one to leave his past in the past and make a new life with this daughter.
Josie takes over her late uncle's off-grid homestead, but she soon realizes that the mountains hold secrets and things are not as perfect as they seem.
Amidst everything else going on the foundation here is about one woman learning to trust again.
To discover the answers, you’ll have to read the book. Silent Creek is one of those stories that allows you to get lost in its narrative. Having never read anything by this author before, I was pleasantly surprised by what I found.
April 7, 2025
This was the first book I've read by Jean M. Grant and I really enjoyed it. There is much to like in this book. It had just enough mystery and suspense to make me excited to pick it back up every time. Im so happy to have found a fantastic, new to me author that has a backlist I can dive into now.
This book has multiple POV's and I loved getting to know these characters and some of the hardships they have all faced. Josie is living off grid on her mountain property in hopes of healing from her unfortunate past. I loved the descriptions of where Josie was living. It definitely sounds peaceful, but I'm not sure if I'd ever be able to do it. This book is about Josie meeting new people and trying to trust where her life is heading now and learning to trust and how to connect with people again. Josie needs help on her property and Everett, who has had a not so perfect past himself, offers to help her with that as her live in handyman. Then when there is suspicious things happening on her property, she's not sure who she can actually trust. She's developing a bond with Everett, but it's definitely guarded. I truly loved this book and flew through it. Very enjoyable!
Thank you Suzy approved book tours and the author for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
This book has multiple POV's and I loved getting to know these characters and some of the hardships they have all faced. Josie is living off grid on her mountain property in hopes of healing from her unfortunate past. I loved the descriptions of where Josie was living. It definitely sounds peaceful, but I'm not sure if I'd ever be able to do it. This book is about Josie meeting new people and trying to trust where her life is heading now and learning to trust and how to connect with people again. Josie needs help on her property and Everett, who has had a not so perfect past himself, offers to help her with that as her live in handyman. Then when there is suspicious things happening on her property, she's not sure who she can actually trust. She's developing a bond with Everett, but it's definitely guarded. I truly loved this book and flew through it. Very enjoyable!
Thank you Suzy approved book tours and the author for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
June 24, 2025
Silent Creek is an evocative and gripping tale of healing, trust, and second chances. Josie Sawyer, on the run from a life stolen by her ex, finds herself struggling with more than just the isolation of her late uncle's mountain homestead. Overwhelmed by mounting bills, a medical emergency, and the upkeep of an aging property, she’s desperate for help. Enter Everett O’Reagan, a man with a criminal past who is looking to start over and prove he can be a good father and a reliable worker. Their unlikely partnership becomes the emotional heart of the story.
The characters are wonderfully layered—Josie is deeply vulnerable yet resilient, and Everett, with his complicated history, offers a complex and sympathetic character to root for. The slow-building bond between the two is heartfelt and realistic, as both characters grapple with their pasts while trying to forge a better future. The tension in their relationship is palpable, and you can't help but hope they'll find peace together.
However, the story takes a darker turn when Josie discovers troubling signs of a trespasser on her property, sending the tension into overdrive. The mystery adds an exciting layer of suspense, keeping you turning the pages as secrets unfold and trust is tested. The way the author weaves themes of forgiveness, redemption, and self-discovery into the narrative is both compelling and poignant.
What stands out in Silent Creek is the emotional depth of the story. It's not just a romance or a thriller, but a journey of healing, learning to trust again, and finding a sense of belonging. The setting of the mountain homestead acts as a perfect backdrop, adding to the feeling of isolation but also to the hope that, even in the most desolate places, connections can form and lives can be rebuilt.
If you're looking for a story that blends suspense, romance, and emotional depth with richly developed characters, Silent Creek is a must-read. It’s a hauntingly beautiful story about starting over, confronting the past, and finding hope in the most unexpected places.
The characters are wonderfully layered—Josie is deeply vulnerable yet resilient, and Everett, with his complicated history, offers a complex and sympathetic character to root for. The slow-building bond between the two is heartfelt and realistic, as both characters grapple with their pasts while trying to forge a better future. The tension in their relationship is palpable, and you can't help but hope they'll find peace together.
However, the story takes a darker turn when Josie discovers troubling signs of a trespasser on her property, sending the tension into overdrive. The mystery adds an exciting layer of suspense, keeping you turning the pages as secrets unfold and trust is tested. The way the author weaves themes of forgiveness, redemption, and self-discovery into the narrative is both compelling and poignant.
What stands out in Silent Creek is the emotional depth of the story. It's not just a romance or a thriller, but a journey of healing, learning to trust again, and finding a sense of belonging. The setting of the mountain homestead acts as a perfect backdrop, adding to the feeling of isolation but also to the hope that, even in the most desolate places, connections can form and lives can be rebuilt.
If you're looking for a story that blends suspense, romance, and emotional depth with richly developed characters, Silent Creek is a must-read. It’s a hauntingly beautiful story about starting over, confronting the past, and finding hope in the most unexpected places.
May 20, 2025
The story is narrated from multiple points of view, which really added to the layers of the story. This was my first book by this author and I look forward to reading more!
When life takes your identity, you make a new one.
Walking off the grid in search of safety from the ex who stole her life, Josie Sawyer is dumped into the deep end. Her late uncle’s mountain homestead comes with responsibility for his elderly friend, and Josie’s finances are quickly strained by a medical emergency and the aging property’s mounting repairs.
She needs help and money—fast.
Determined to put his criminal past behind him, Everett O’Reagan has vowed to build a better life for himself and his daughter. So, he jumps at the chance to work for Josie as the homestead’s live-in handyman. But between trying to dodge the nosy local sheriff and appease his caseworker, Everett’s new reputation is on shaky ground.
Nevertheless, a cautious bond forms between Josie and her new tenants, and the friendship leaves her hoping she might repair her sense of human connection. But when suspicious activity on her property points to a dangerous trespasser, a dark discovery shatters Josie’s blooming trust.
Maybe a secure life with a new family was just a fool’s hope in Silent Creek…
When life takes your identity, you make a new one.
Walking off the grid in search of safety from the ex who stole her life, Josie Sawyer is dumped into the deep end. Her late uncle’s mountain homestead comes with responsibility for his elderly friend, and Josie’s finances are quickly strained by a medical emergency and the aging property’s mounting repairs.
She needs help and money—fast.
Determined to put his criminal past behind him, Everett O’Reagan has vowed to build a better life for himself and his daughter. So, he jumps at the chance to work for Josie as the homestead’s live-in handyman. But between trying to dodge the nosy local sheriff and appease his caseworker, Everett’s new reputation is on shaky ground.
Nevertheless, a cautious bond forms between Josie and her new tenants, and the friendship leaves her hoping she might repair her sense of human connection. But when suspicious activity on her property points to a dangerous trespasser, a dark discovery shatters Josie’s blooming trust.
Maybe a secure life with a new family was just a fool’s hope in Silent Creek…
May 20, 2025
Having had her life stolen from her by her ex Josie goes ‘off grid’ to her late Uncle’s homestead in the mountains. Between mounting repairs needed on the aging property and a medical emergency, Josie’s finances are quickly drained and she needs both help and money. Everett is determined to put his criminal past behind him and jumps at the chance to be the live-in handyman at Josie’s homestead. Just as Josie and Everett’s relationship develops, suspicious activity and a dangerous trespasser on her property puts her trust to the test. The storyline had a real sense of mystery, suspense and tension which kept me hooked throughout. I enjoyed the developing relationship between Josie and Everett who were both realistic characters. I found that the story being told by multiple points of view worked well as it made me feel engaged with each character. The descriptive narrative brought the atmospheric mountain homestead vividly to life making me feel fully immersed in the story.
March 28, 2025
Silent Creek by Jean M. Grant, for me this was a new author. Just my opinion this was a good read, but not a great one. I found it hard to get invested in the story line. Having said that I would still recommend this book to others.
I received and ARC from BookSirens and I am leaving my review voluntarily.
I received and ARC from BookSirens and I am leaving my review voluntarily.
May 19, 2025
Lovely story about disappearing and starting over. But after being pushed past her breaking point by her spouse Josie drops off the grid. Trying to better himself for his daughter Everett returns home after serving his sentence. This romantic suspense makes you think of what makes someone want to disappear from their former life. The characters are lovable especially Hank. A few unexpected plot twists kept me from putting the book down. My first book by Grant and I enjoyed every moment of the story.
February 27, 2025
I had the pleasure of reading an early copy of Silent Creek and I just love everything about it.
Not quite romance, not quite women’s fiction, not quite mystery, but somewhere in the realm of all three. Told from 4 different points-of-view, this one has definitely become one of my favorites of Grant’s stories. (It’s neck and neck with Will Rise From Ashes, I think!)
Sometimes life is hard. Sometimes we get hurt. Sometimes we don’t know how to trust again. This book is about a woman who disappears off the grid, sure, but it’s also about learning to trust again and the human connections that make life worth living. It’s the kind of heartwarming read we all need, maybe now more than ever.
Not quite romance, not quite women’s fiction, not quite mystery, but somewhere in the realm of all three. Told from 4 different points-of-view, this one has definitely become one of my favorites of Grant’s stories. (It’s neck and neck with Will Rise From Ashes, I think!)
Sometimes life is hard. Sometimes we get hurt. Sometimes we don’t know how to trust again. This book is about a woman who disappears off the grid, sure, but it’s also about learning to trust again and the human connections that make life worth living. It’s the kind of heartwarming read we all need, maybe now more than ever.
June 30, 2025
4.5⭐
This is a story about overcoming fear and finding family where you least expect it. The main character Josie is on the run from a dangerous ex, and she finds solace in a piece of land willed to her in an inheritance. Now anyone who hasn't been to the White Mountains in New Hampshire are missing out on one of the most beautiful places on Earth. Josie's farm is off the grid there, and the writing reminded me of the last time I visited, which was about 15 years ago.
"“Is this…?” I paused. The moving water whirled around mossy-covered rocks, sighing happily, if creeks could sigh. Chip stopped to lap up a drink. “Silent Creek? Yes.”
“Same one I cross over twice on the way to town and flows behind my cabin?”
“The same one. It gets wider and faster with the waterfall at the end of Silent Lake. There are a few watering holes where teens gather. Here, it’s a trickle.”
“I knew the creek cut through the mountains, but didn’t realize it started this far north.” With a deft step, Josie hopped over a few larger rocks in the eight-foot-wide creek to meet the continuing path. I did the same.
“It begins a few miles that way.” She pointed north, beyond the rock wall toward the rising peaks of the White Mountains around us. I glimpsed a distant granite peak through the trees. Their beauty never got old, not from this viewpoint, by the cabins, or in town."
I really enjoyed the fact that Hank wasn't used as just a reason to push the plot along. I can't tell you how many books I've read where older characters among younger characters are used as cliched plot points. Here, Hank is fully fleshed out. He's not a cranky old man or stubborn, simply a family man who wraps Josie, Lark and Everett in love the minute he meets them. He gave Josie my favorite line in the story:
"Less saltine, as Hank said, and more pecan sandy. I had my rough spots, was nutty, but still could be sweet."
We get his backstory slowly through the book and it made me warm, not sad. Lark was also a pleasant child as well, although I will say I don't think her POV was necessary. I don't think it hurt the story...I just think it could be cut to make the story more streamline. But how can you not fall for that little girl? Everett was such an honest character. When he was struggling for money and he thought about "the job" and then finally disregarding it? How many people had that conversation in their head when they have mouths to feed? I yelled at my Kindle towards the end:
"Silence and solitude weren’t as freeing as I envisioned. I owed Everett a big apology. He hadn’t swindled, used, or betrayed me. He was nothing like Tate. I sighed. Either way, we were now…nothing. Even with more frequent trips to town, I avoided him. I saw him once, walking into the library with Lark, and I ducked behind a bush like I was fifteen and he was my high school crush."
Yes, I figured out most of the "big" conflict halfway through the book. But I didn't see the story as really about THAT conflict. That was minor for me. It was really the found family aspect that was the major conflict. How Josie thought she needed to disappear, when she really needed to open up and reappear.
I wish that when there was a "flashback" in the story, that part of the book was formatted differently. It would flow better, as I had to read it a second time to reorient myself. Not a huge deal and easy to fix. Otherwise, it was an amazing story that made my whole body tingle with warmth. The epilogue was chef's kiss.
This is a story about overcoming fear and finding family where you least expect it. The main character Josie is on the run from a dangerous ex, and she finds solace in a piece of land willed to her in an inheritance. Now anyone who hasn't been to the White Mountains in New Hampshire are missing out on one of the most beautiful places on Earth. Josie's farm is off the grid there, and the writing reminded me of the last time I visited, which was about 15 years ago.
"“Is this…?” I paused. The moving water whirled around mossy-covered rocks, sighing happily, if creeks could sigh. Chip stopped to lap up a drink. “Silent Creek? Yes.”
“Same one I cross over twice on the way to town and flows behind my cabin?”
“The same one. It gets wider and faster with the waterfall at the end of Silent Lake. There are a few watering holes where teens gather. Here, it’s a trickle.”
“I knew the creek cut through the mountains, but didn’t realize it started this far north.” With a deft step, Josie hopped over a few larger rocks in the eight-foot-wide creek to meet the continuing path. I did the same.
“It begins a few miles that way.” She pointed north, beyond the rock wall toward the rising peaks of the White Mountains around us. I glimpsed a distant granite peak through the trees. Their beauty never got old, not from this viewpoint, by the cabins, or in town."
I really enjoyed the fact that Hank wasn't used as just a reason to push the plot along. I can't tell you how many books I've read where older characters among younger characters are used as cliched plot points. Here, Hank is fully fleshed out. He's not a cranky old man or stubborn, simply a family man who wraps Josie, Lark and Everett in love the minute he meets them. He gave Josie my favorite line in the story:
"Less saltine, as Hank said, and more pecan sandy. I had my rough spots, was nutty, but still could be sweet."
We get his backstory slowly through the book and it made me warm, not sad. Lark was also a pleasant child as well, although I will say I don't think her POV was necessary. I don't think it hurt the story...I just think it could be cut to make the story more streamline. But how can you not fall for that little girl? Everett was such an honest character. When he was struggling for money and he thought about "the job" and then finally disregarding it? How many people had that conversation in their head when they have mouths to feed? I yelled at my Kindle towards the end:
"Silence and solitude weren’t as freeing as I envisioned. I owed Everett a big apology. He hadn’t swindled, used, or betrayed me. He was nothing like Tate. I sighed. Either way, we were now…nothing. Even with more frequent trips to town, I avoided him. I saw him once, walking into the library with Lark, and I ducked behind a bush like I was fifteen and he was my high school crush."
Yes, I figured out most of the "big" conflict halfway through the book. But I didn't see the story as really about THAT conflict. That was minor for me. It was really the found family aspect that was the major conflict. How Josie thought she needed to disappear, when she really needed to open up and reappear.
I wish that when there was a "flashback" in the story, that part of the book was formatted differently. It would flow better, as I had to read it a second time to reorient myself. Not a huge deal and easy to fix. Otherwise, it was an amazing story that made my whole body tingle with warmth. The epilogue was chef's kiss.
June 24, 2025
This is my first book by the author Jean M. Grant, I really enjoyed several aspects of this book and look forward to reading others written by this author.
The book weaves a perfect balance of mystery, suspense, love, emotional depth, romance, loss, redemption, and off-grid living. It is told from a dual POV of the two main characters, Everett and Josie, as it really helps you understand and get to know the characters on a deeper, more personal level; it also makes it easier to stay engaged, even though this book makes that VERY easy anyway.
While it does focus on romance, it offers the reader so much more than that.
Josie, the main female character, is needing to get away from her ex-husband who stole everything from her - including her peace of mind and safety. She inherits a homestead with land and a cabin from an uncle. Being able to disappear is exactly what she asked for, but the off-grid homestead also comes with its own challenges, including caring for her uncle's elderly friend (Hank), as well as, she can not take care of everything on the homestead alone, she needs help, but money is tight.
Everett, the main male character, has been released from jail and received custody of his daughter (Lark). He is trying to do everything right and whatever it takes to turn his life around. Finding a job and a place to live is at the top of his priorities. He immediately jumps at the opportunity to work on the homestead for Josie as it comes with a cabin to live in for him and his daughter as well.
Everything appears to run smoothly at first, trust is built and friendships are forming. But then things start happening around the homestead. Things start to go missing, fences are broken, cigarettes appear. Because of both Josie's and Everett's past, she starts to second guess Everett and her trust is broken.
What is really happening on the homestead? Who is to be trusted?
This is a wonderful book with an absolutely beautiful storyline about how even if you are struggling in a bad situation, you do not have to be in that bad situation forever. You may be stuck for some time, but it does not have to last forever. You can gain the power to take your life back and change it into the life that you want. Then add in the bits and pieces of romance, friendship, and mystery.
I most certainly recommend this book to anyone who just wants to curl up on the couch in front of the fire or read on a rainy day. I also look forward to reading more books written by this author.
The book weaves a perfect balance of mystery, suspense, love, emotional depth, romance, loss, redemption, and off-grid living. It is told from a dual POV of the two main characters, Everett and Josie, as it really helps you understand and get to know the characters on a deeper, more personal level; it also makes it easier to stay engaged, even though this book makes that VERY easy anyway.
While it does focus on romance, it offers the reader so much more than that.
Josie, the main female character, is needing to get away from her ex-husband who stole everything from her - including her peace of mind and safety. She inherits a homestead with land and a cabin from an uncle. Being able to disappear is exactly what she asked for, but the off-grid homestead also comes with its own challenges, including caring for her uncle's elderly friend (Hank), as well as, she can not take care of everything on the homestead alone, she needs help, but money is tight.
Everett, the main male character, has been released from jail and received custody of his daughter (Lark). He is trying to do everything right and whatever it takes to turn his life around. Finding a job and a place to live is at the top of his priorities. He immediately jumps at the opportunity to work on the homestead for Josie as it comes with a cabin to live in for him and his daughter as well.
Everything appears to run smoothly at first, trust is built and friendships are forming. But then things start happening around the homestead. Things start to go missing, fences are broken, cigarettes appear. Because of both Josie's and Everett's past, she starts to second guess Everett and her trust is broken.
What is really happening on the homestead? Who is to be trusted?
This is a wonderful book with an absolutely beautiful storyline about how even if you are struggling in a bad situation, you do not have to be in that bad situation forever. You may be stuck for some time, but it does not have to last forever. You can gain the power to take your life back and change it into the life that you want. Then add in the bits and pieces of romance, friendship, and mystery.
I most certainly recommend this book to anyone who just wants to curl up on the couch in front of the fire or read on a rainy day. I also look forward to reading more books written by this author.
June 24, 2025
Josie Sawyer is a woman escaping from her past, an ex-husband who stole her life away from her and has forced her to live off the grid in an attempt to start afresh, and that is how she ended up in Silent Creek in a cabin left to her by her uncle when he passed away. When she reviewed the paperwork and prepared everything she needed to leave, what she didn't count on was a meddling old man who lived next door, her uncle's friend who insists on helping her to reintegrate into the world she has been trying to avoid and she is thrown into this when he has a medical emergency and a spanner is thrown into the works.
Everett O'Reagan is a young man with a checkered past, a child who he is raising alone after missing the first parts of her life and trying to find a job and a house to keep his small family together and safe and build the two of them a stable life, so when he sees a flyer for a cabin combined with a job as a groundskeeper, he jumps at the chance to prove to himself and those around him that he can create the stability he desperately craves.
When Everett turns up at Josie's door, she knows it is her meddling neighbour who is behind it, but despite her reluctance, she agrees to Everett and his little one leasing the other cabin on the land and him helping out with the mounting list of repairs, serviced and maintenance needed, but he is a quick learner and over time, she finds that she is starting to enjoy having them both around, even her neighbour is less cranky, even though he is still recovering.
Unfortunately, things start to happen around the property and nobody can explain what is happening or why and nature is ruled out of the equation, but will the tenuous friendship building between Josie and Everett be able to survive the revelations around the mysterious incidents, or will their past traumas come back to haunt them with a vengeance? This is a mystery set in an out of the way setting, where hiding is a way of life and recovery from long lasting trauma is the goal, but there are always things hiding in the shadows to disrupt even the most isolated of lives in this suspenseful story.
Everett O'Reagan is a young man with a checkered past, a child who he is raising alone after missing the first parts of her life and trying to find a job and a house to keep his small family together and safe and build the two of them a stable life, so when he sees a flyer for a cabin combined with a job as a groundskeeper, he jumps at the chance to prove to himself and those around him that he can create the stability he desperately craves.
When Everett turns up at Josie's door, she knows it is her meddling neighbour who is behind it, but despite her reluctance, she agrees to Everett and his little one leasing the other cabin on the land and him helping out with the mounting list of repairs, serviced and maintenance needed, but he is a quick learner and over time, she finds that she is starting to enjoy having them both around, even her neighbour is less cranky, even though he is still recovering.
Unfortunately, things start to happen around the property and nobody can explain what is happening or why and nature is ruled out of the equation, but will the tenuous friendship building between Josie and Everett be able to survive the revelations around the mysterious incidents, or will their past traumas come back to haunt them with a vengeance? This is a mystery set in an out of the way setting, where hiding is a way of life and recovery from long lasting trauma is the goal, but there are always things hiding in the shadows to disrupt even the most isolated of lives in this suspenseful story.
June 23, 2025
In Silent Creek, Jean M. Grant delivers a tense, emotionally rich story of redemption, resilience, and the quiet strength it takes to rebuild a life from the ground up.
Josie Sawyer is running—not just from a past relationship, but from an entire life that’s been stolen out from under her. When she inherits her late uncle’s secluded mountain homestead, she sees a flicker of hope for stability. But that dream is quickly clouded by the harsh realities of rural living: a crumbling house, escalating medical expenses, and the burden of caring for her uncle’s elderly friend. Josie’s desire for isolation is tested by the very real need for help.
Enter Everett O’Reagan, a man with demons of his own. A former convict trying to regain custody of his daughter, Everett walks into Josie’s world with scars, secrets, and a surprising tenderness. Hired as a live-in handyman, Everett becomes more than a fixer of broken windows—he begins to mend the fractures in Josie’s guarded heart.
Grant excels in creating complex, believable characters, each carrying wounds that make their cautious connection feel authentic and earned. The developing bond between Josie and Everett is marked by mutual mistrust, tentative hope, and an underlying sense of danger that builds as the story progresses.
The setting of Silent Creek is as much a character as the people inhabiting it—wild, weathered, and full of history. It’s the perfect backdrop for a story steeped in quiet suspense and slow-burning tension. When strange happenings on the property threaten Josie’s safety, the novel pivots into a compelling blend of psychological suspense and emotional drama.
What stands out most about Silent Creek is its exploration of what it means to start over—not in a glossy, overnight transformation, but in the gritty, day-by-day work of healing, trusting, and surviving. Grant never rushes her characters’ evolution, which gives the story a grounded, heartfelt authenticity.
Josie Sawyer is running—not just from a past relationship, but from an entire life that’s been stolen out from under her. When she inherits her late uncle’s secluded mountain homestead, she sees a flicker of hope for stability. But that dream is quickly clouded by the harsh realities of rural living: a crumbling house, escalating medical expenses, and the burden of caring for her uncle’s elderly friend. Josie’s desire for isolation is tested by the very real need for help.
Enter Everett O’Reagan, a man with demons of his own. A former convict trying to regain custody of his daughter, Everett walks into Josie’s world with scars, secrets, and a surprising tenderness. Hired as a live-in handyman, Everett becomes more than a fixer of broken windows—he begins to mend the fractures in Josie’s guarded heart.
Grant excels in creating complex, believable characters, each carrying wounds that make their cautious connection feel authentic and earned. The developing bond between Josie and Everett is marked by mutual mistrust, tentative hope, and an underlying sense of danger that builds as the story progresses.
The setting of Silent Creek is as much a character as the people inhabiting it—wild, weathered, and full of history. It’s the perfect backdrop for a story steeped in quiet suspense and slow-burning tension. When strange happenings on the property threaten Josie’s safety, the novel pivots into a compelling blend of psychological suspense and emotional drama.
What stands out most about Silent Creek is its exploration of what it means to start over—not in a glossy, overnight transformation, but in the gritty, day-by-day work of healing, trusting, and surviving. Grant never rushes her characters’ evolution, which gives the story a grounded, heartfelt authenticity.
May 26, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. It was a good mix of crazy off the grid living, romance, and second chances. It did keep me on my toes for a good while there with the cigarette butts and such. Josie inherits her uncle's off the grid homestead in the mountains and with that his elderly friend (Hank) too. She's ready for the new start. She needed to get away quickly and quietly. But she's not prepared for what this life is about to throw at her. Can she do off grid? Everett is trying to fix his life after jail time. Getting custody of his daughter (Lark) and getting them a place is one of this highest goals. Along with job, health insurance, doctor appointments, and whatever else the state department of children affairs wants! He will do whatever it takes to turn his life around for his daughter and himself. Joe just happens to have a spare cabin and she needs a handyman for all the off grid stuff. Solar, pumps, wind turbine, and all! So he jumps at the chance! He's willing to learn what he needs and help as much as he can to get a better life. They all slowly start to form bonds. Lark loves spending time with Hank building Legos and painting. Joe and Everett even start hanging out without homestead talk! But when suspicious things start happening around the homestead Joe's trust is broken. Who is behind the missing things, random cigarettes, and broken fences? And what's up with the Sherriff? Why's he always mysteriously around? Such a great book! You will love this romance suspense!
June 17, 2025
This is just the read I needed to get my heart pumping and racing !
Josie has really had a tough time of late and while I’m grateful she’s rid of her husband her really did a number on her not only did he steal her money and her identity he stole her peace of mind and that’s just unforgivable! The earthy things one can get back over time but your peace is a different thing .
She inherits her uncle’s land and cabin but with it she inherits his friend , Hank and it would seem she can rebuild her life and avoid her husband who is nasty and full of vengeance but then Hank takes a fall and she needs to help him and the little bit she has goes to helping him , to be fare her uncle did consider the financial side and did provide but it only goes so far and my heart just shatters for her but the wheel will turn and good things will come back to her …,
Everette has done his time and is now wanting to rebuild his life but he needs a roof over his head and it’s not just him he’s got his daughter Lark to think of as well so their paths cross with Josie’s and I take a deep breath thinking all is good but then strange things start happening and relationships and trust are being questioned 🤔😱😢
There were some really tense moments but there were tender moments like the bond between Hank and Lark which is quite special and this little family finds their feet in their own way and time ❣️
I loved being able to read things from different perspectives and it felt like I got an overall feel from everyone , a brilliant read !
Josie has really had a tough time of late and while I’m grateful she’s rid of her husband her really did a number on her not only did he steal her money and her identity he stole her peace of mind and that’s just unforgivable! The earthy things one can get back over time but your peace is a different thing .
She inherits her uncle’s land and cabin but with it she inherits his friend , Hank and it would seem she can rebuild her life and avoid her husband who is nasty and full of vengeance but then Hank takes a fall and she needs to help him and the little bit she has goes to helping him , to be fare her uncle did consider the financial side and did provide but it only goes so far and my heart just shatters for her but the wheel will turn and good things will come back to her …,
Everette has done his time and is now wanting to rebuild his life but he needs a roof over his head and it’s not just him he’s got his daughter Lark to think of as well so their paths cross with Josie’s and I take a deep breath thinking all is good but then strange things start happening and relationships and trust are being questioned 🤔😱😢
There were some really tense moments but there were tender moments like the bond between Hank and Lark which is quite special and this little family finds their feet in their own way and time ❣️
I loved being able to read things from different perspectives and it felt like I got an overall feel from everyone , a brilliant read !
July 25, 2025
Silent Creek: second chances and a heartwarming found family
Silent Creek grabbed me from the beginning with its promise of romance and mystery coupled with danger in the form of a stalker ex.
Josie Sawyer, against all her instincts, goes off the grid to begin a new life, a simpler existence in which she trusts no one. I’ve known and interviewed women in similar situations who have started over with great difficulty, planning for the day they might be discovered no matter how well they covered their tracks. This story rang true-to-life. It was unputdownable.
Silent Creek combined several of my favorite tropes: It’s set in a small town and there’s Hank, an older, wise uncle who needs help, Lark, a young girl with her father, Everett, who’s served time and is down on his luck. And a dog named Chip.
Every character has problems and a secret. They all play an important role in the story. Friendship and found family are part of the mix as are mistrust, misunderstanding, and longing for what each is lacking in their pared-down existence.
I loved the multiple points of view allowing me to get into the heads of all the characters and the descriptions of the territory which made me feel I was there with everyone in the book.
Author Jean M. Grant is an exceptional writer and researcher, necessary in a book with heart and depth. Indeed, the characters change and grow with their challenges as they rise and surmount the worst.
I not only recommend Silent Creek but am also looking forward to reading Grant’s next offering, already available!
Silent Creek grabbed me from the beginning with its promise of romance and mystery coupled with danger in the form of a stalker ex.
Josie Sawyer, against all her instincts, goes off the grid to begin a new life, a simpler existence in which she trusts no one. I’ve known and interviewed women in similar situations who have started over with great difficulty, planning for the day they might be discovered no matter how well they covered their tracks. This story rang true-to-life. It was unputdownable.
Silent Creek combined several of my favorite tropes: It’s set in a small town and there’s Hank, an older, wise uncle who needs help, Lark, a young girl with her father, Everett, who’s served time and is down on his luck. And a dog named Chip.
Every character has problems and a secret. They all play an important role in the story. Friendship and found family are part of the mix as are mistrust, misunderstanding, and longing for what each is lacking in their pared-down existence.
I loved the multiple points of view allowing me to get into the heads of all the characters and the descriptions of the territory which made me feel I was there with everyone in the book.
Author Jean M. Grant is an exceptional writer and researcher, necessary in a book with heart and depth. Indeed, the characters change and grow with their challenges as they rise and surmount the worst.
I not only recommend Silent Creek but am also looking forward to reading Grant’s next offering, already available!
June 12, 2025
Josie has been through the wringer with her ex-husband, Tate. He stole her identity. He stole her money. He stole peace of mind. Josie did the only thing she could think of when the opportunity came with unfortunate circumstances.
Josie disappeared. She went off the grid. The uncle that she visited as a child left her his 600 acre homestead (completely off the grid). It came with some minor complications, like she knew nothing about living off the grid or the work it takes to keep up with all the maintenance, plus Hank. Hank was her uncle’s best friend. It was part of the will that he stays and there was even money left by her uncle for his care.
When Hank falls and breaks a hip, he decides to push Josie into allowing Everett and his daughter, Lark, to help out around the place. Josie is resistant at first but slowly agrees. Everett has his own secrets and reason for agreeing to be the live-in caretaker of the homestead. When Josie’s ex gets out of prison, he stalks Josie in search of her uncle’s hidden money.
Things I liked about this story. It has multiple POV’s. Josie and Everett, sure. But throw in Hank and Lark. The different angles and perspectives really made the story richer and more real. I liked that each character grew. Hank discovered life again in his 80’s. Lark found out that monsters are real and that she could defeat them.
I like my books with a little spice but this was a cleanser. A good read.
Josie disappeared. She went off the grid. The uncle that she visited as a child left her his 600 acre homestead (completely off the grid). It came with some minor complications, like she knew nothing about living off the grid or the work it takes to keep up with all the maintenance, plus Hank. Hank was her uncle’s best friend. It was part of the will that he stays and there was even money left by her uncle for his care.
When Hank falls and breaks a hip, he decides to push Josie into allowing Everett and his daughter, Lark, to help out around the place. Josie is resistant at first but slowly agrees. Everett has his own secrets and reason for agreeing to be the live-in caretaker of the homestead. When Josie’s ex gets out of prison, he stalks Josie in search of her uncle’s hidden money.
Things I liked about this story. It has multiple POV’s. Josie and Everett, sure. But throw in Hank and Lark. The different angles and perspectives really made the story richer and more real. I liked that each character grew. Hank discovered life again in his 80’s. Lark found out that monsters are real and that she could defeat them.
I like my books with a little spice but this was a cleanser. A good read.
June 21, 2025
This was an interesting read by an author that is new to me and I wasn't disappointed. This was a great story of a woman's journey of disappearing and refinding herself however along the way she uncovers secrets and mysteries that she never expect to find.
Josie Sawyer has had her life stolen and turned upside down by her ex. She now needs to disappear so he cant find her and what better way than to return to her old familys cabin in the mountains that's completely off grid.
Needing help and money to keep the homestead running Josie knows she has to take in a tenant and handyman but after everything that's happened she doesn't trust anyone.
Everett is also trying to rebuild his life along with his daughter. He needs a home and a job so when he sees that Josie is looking for that he thinks it's his calling. But Everett has secrets of his own and he's not sure how Josie will react if she finds out.
As they start to build a tentative relationship strange things start happening around the homestead, this leads to Josie digging deeper and uncovering secrets she never knew existed. With a danger on the horizon, is the danger a trespasser or is it someone closer to her? Will her trust be shattered all over again?
I loved the characters of Josie and Everett. Both of them just want a peaceful life and a new beginning. They are written in such a way that makes them believable.
Josie Sawyer has had her life stolen and turned upside down by her ex. She now needs to disappear so he cant find her and what better way than to return to her old familys cabin in the mountains that's completely off grid.
Needing help and money to keep the homestead running Josie knows she has to take in a tenant and handyman but after everything that's happened she doesn't trust anyone.
Everett is also trying to rebuild his life along with his daughter. He needs a home and a job so when he sees that Josie is looking for that he thinks it's his calling. But Everett has secrets of his own and he's not sure how Josie will react if she finds out.
As they start to build a tentative relationship strange things start happening around the homestead, this leads to Josie digging deeper and uncovering secrets she never knew existed. With a danger on the horizon, is the danger a trespasser or is it someone closer to her? Will her trust be shattered all over again?
I loved the characters of Josie and Everett. Both of them just want a peaceful life and a new beginning. They are written in such a way that makes them believable.
April 25, 2025
Pushed to the brink by her ex-husband taking her life savings and her life, Josie disappears and goes off the grid. She starts a new life in Silent Creek. She’s overly cautious and with good reason. Trust is a taboo word for Josie. When she meets Everett, her walls begin to crumble. Can she trust Everett or will be betray her? Is the sheriff in cahoots with her ex? Will her ex finally catch up with her and make her pay?
Silent Creek is a romantic suspense I couldn’t put down. Women will relate to all that Josie goes through. The narration is rich in detail and emotion. Every spike in Josie’s pulse draws the reader into the story. To say this is one of the best books I’ve read this year is an understatement. It’s one of the best books I’ve ever read, hands down.
What makes Silent Creek an unforgettable read is the writing. I’ve read all of Jean M. Grant’s historical novels. Just like her historicals, Jean M. Grant has researched and researched. The plot is flawless in every way. Her imagery and world-building allow the reader to visualize and experience everything Josie and Everett go through.
Silent Creek needs to be read by every woman. Don’t let this happen to you! Read it now.
My Rating: 5++ stars
Reviewed by: Nancy
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...
Silent Creek is a romantic suspense I couldn’t put down. Women will relate to all that Josie goes through. The narration is rich in detail and emotion. Every spike in Josie’s pulse draws the reader into the story. To say this is one of the best books I’ve read this year is an understatement. It’s one of the best books I’ve ever read, hands down.
What makes Silent Creek an unforgettable read is the writing. I’ve read all of Jean M. Grant’s historical novels. Just like her historicals, Jean M. Grant has researched and researched. The plot is flawless in every way. Her imagery and world-building allow the reader to visualize and experience everything Josie and Everett go through.
Silent Creek needs to be read by every woman. Don’t let this happen to you! Read it now.
My Rating: 5++ stars
Reviewed by: Nancy
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...
June 24, 2025
Silent Creek is a suspenseful and emotionally rich novel that centers on themes of healing, trust, slow-burn romance, strength, resilience, redemption, second chances, and starting over. The story centers around Josie Sawyer who flees an abusive ex and inherits her late uncle’s remote mountain homestead. Struggling with financial burdens and caring for her uncle’s elderly friend, she hires Everett O’Reagan, a reformed ex-con hoping to rebuild his life and regain custody of his daughter as a live-in handyman. As Josie and Everett slowly form a bond, mysterious and unsettling events begin to occur on the property, leading Josie to question who she can really trust. What begins as Josie’s attempt to reclaim her identity and find peace off-grid soon spirals into a tense and mysterious series of events. From the looming threat of a dangerous trespasser to the emotional burden of caretaking and healing, Everett’s presence adds heart and grit, and his efforts to rebuild a life for himself and his daughter make him an unforgettable figure. The characters of Josie and Everett are relatable and their strength, resilience, and determination to reclaim their lives is admirable. I found myself rooting for these characters and hoping that things would finally work out for them. This was a suspenseful and emotion-filled read until the final pages.
June 30, 2025
An inheritance from an uncle was Jo’s saving grace when she was trying to start over. Living off the grid had made her feel a little more safe, but no one can ever be too careful. So when her neighbor decides to push her into hiring Everett to help with the care of the property and anything else needed, she fears she has made a mistake. She’s worked hard to get where she’s at but if she’s being honest, she can’t do it all on her own. The property is very large and some off the grid items she still has to learn the ins and outs of. Everett seems to be proving his skills every day and his young daughter is a ray of sunshine that brings her happiness she didn’t realize she missed. But when things start to go missing and mysterious things start happening around the property her fear of the past has put her on high alert and she’s once again questioning hiring on Everett. Will she always have her fear of the past holding her back? Is Everett not who he claims to be or is someone else out to get her? I really enjoyed this storyline. I loved Lark’s character as well as how everything played out. Everyone has secrets and a past, but often people are trying to better themselves. Thank you to the author for the complementary novel and to Suzy Approved Book Tours for the invite. This review is of my own opinion and accord.
June 24, 2025
When Josie Sawyer's uncle left her his isolated mountain retreat in his will, she seized the opportunity to escape the chaos of her life. After her ex-husband stole her identity and wreaked havoc, she longed for a fresh start. Now that he is in jail, Josie feels safe knowing he can never find her.
Everett O'Reagan, a decent man, got caught up in the thrill of cyber hacking and ended up in prison. However, he learned his lesson and resolved to turn his life around—especially after discovering that the mother of his daughter is struggling with addiction. All he wants now is a chance to create a better life for himself and his daughter, Lark.
Upon arriving at the mountain retreat, Josie discovers that it comes with a tenant: her uncle's best friend, Hank, whom she is obligated to care for as part of the will. A chance encounter leads Everett to Josie, who is looking for a home and a job for both himself and Lark. Initially hesitant, Josie eventually agrees to let Everett do jobs around the property in exchange for reduced rent on one of the cabins.
As time passes, a bond forms between Josie, Hank, and Everett, fostered by the presence of sweet Lark. However, secrets from the past begin to surface, threatening to unravel the fragile friendships they've built.
Everett O'Reagan, a decent man, got caught up in the thrill of cyber hacking and ended up in prison. However, he learned his lesson and resolved to turn his life around—especially after discovering that the mother of his daughter is struggling with addiction. All he wants now is a chance to create a better life for himself and his daughter, Lark.
Upon arriving at the mountain retreat, Josie discovers that it comes with a tenant: her uncle's best friend, Hank, whom she is obligated to care for as part of the will. A chance encounter leads Everett to Josie, who is looking for a home and a job for both himself and Lark. Initially hesitant, Josie eventually agrees to let Everett do jobs around the property in exchange for reduced rent on one of the cabins.
As time passes, a bond forms between Josie, Hank, and Everett, fostered by the presence of sweet Lark. However, secrets from the past begin to surface, threatening to unravel the fragile friendships they've built.
July 3, 2025
𝙃𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙡𝙞𝙫𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙤𝙛𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙜𝙧𝙞𝙙? 𝙄 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚!
That is what Josie intends to do - start a new life at her uncle’s mountain homestead, hidden away from her ex-husband, who stole her life. She wants, needs, to stay clear of as many people as possible.
Everett is trying to be a better man, to put his past behind him and be the best dad he can for his sweet daughter, Lark. He finds work and lodging at a mountain homestead owned by a woman named Josie and her elderly tenant, Hank.
This is a heartwarming story of people with pasts filled with pain, regrets, brokenness, and abuse coming together to help heal and learn to trust again. I loved that we were privy to multiple POVs, allowing for a more personal feel.
I loved the small-town setting and Josie’s little cabin homestead. The isolation and wilderness spoke to her lack of trust and how difficult it was to let others into her life again. While there is a tender sense of found family and even a touch of romance, the story also offers suspense and mystery as someone is lurking around Josie’s property, threatening to undo all the healing that has begun.
Thank you to @suzyapprovedbooktours and @jeanmgrant for the gifted book.
That is what Josie intends to do - start a new life at her uncle’s mountain homestead, hidden away from her ex-husband, who stole her life. She wants, needs, to stay clear of as many people as possible.
Everett is trying to be a better man, to put his past behind him and be the best dad he can for his sweet daughter, Lark. He finds work and lodging at a mountain homestead owned by a woman named Josie and her elderly tenant, Hank.
This is a heartwarming story of people with pasts filled with pain, regrets, brokenness, and abuse coming together to help heal and learn to trust again. I loved that we were privy to multiple POVs, allowing for a more personal feel.
I loved the small-town setting and Josie’s little cabin homestead. The isolation and wilderness spoke to her lack of trust and how difficult it was to let others into her life again. While there is a tender sense of found family and even a touch of romance, the story also offers suspense and mystery as someone is lurking around Josie’s property, threatening to undo all the healing that has begun.
Thank you to @suzyapprovedbooktours and @jeanmgrant for the gifted book.
March 16, 2025
When a friend of mine told me how much she loved Silent Creek by Jean Grant, I read the reviews, all glowing, and the blurb, I was hesitant: my normal reading is usually mysteries, historicals, fantasy, science fiction, and thrillers.
I’d had my stint with romance when I was a young woman, and that was enough. But she wouldn’t let it go, and gifted me a copy.
I have to say I was blown away by Ms. Grant’s novel. The hours flew by, and I was immersed in the story. I fell in love with the characters, and the story line, both of which were deep and real. Her writing drew me into the book, and I couldn’t put it down, it was that good.
I fell in love with Josie, Everett, Lark, Hank, Nana, and of course Chip & Holly. I cried when the chickens were slaughter by the weasel.
Silent Creek, held me in a spell that only a great writer can do. It has its romantic aspects, which were wonderfully done, as well as a lot of suspense and angst. Plus, I learned that going completely off the grid would be extremely difficult to do for a long period of time. Though the sense of the land and building a sanctuary has its own charm.
I’d had my stint with romance when I was a young woman, and that was enough. But she wouldn’t let it go, and gifted me a copy.
I have to say I was blown away by Ms. Grant’s novel. The hours flew by, and I was immersed in the story. I fell in love with the characters, and the story line, both of which were deep and real. Her writing drew me into the book, and I couldn’t put it down, it was that good.
I fell in love with Josie, Everett, Lark, Hank, Nana, and of course Chip & Holly. I cried when the chickens were slaughter by the weasel.
Silent Creek, held me in a spell that only a great writer can do. It has its romantic aspects, which were wonderfully done, as well as a lot of suspense and angst. Plus, I learned that going completely off the grid would be extremely difficult to do for a long period of time. Though the sense of the land and building a sanctuary has its own charm.
May 20, 2025
3.5 Stars
Silent Creek by Jean M. Grant seamlessly blends mystery, family drama, suspense, and character growth. This new-to-me author has crafted quite an emotional story that kept me engrossed with her well-developed characters and an atmospheric setting.
The novel follows a woman struggling with personal loss and uncertainty as she returns to her childhood home in the Mountains. What starts as an attempt to reconnect with her past quickly turns into a gripping mystery. As she digs deeper, secrets unfold, relationships are tested, and she’s forced to confront truths she never expected.
Ms. Grant does a great job of weaving the past and present, while slowly building the tension - which results in keeping you engaged without feeling like she’s rushing the story.
Silent Creek leaves quiet a powerful impression as we follow along as everything unfolds. And adding to the impact is the exploration of grief, healing, and finding strength in unexpected places.
So, if you love books with richly painted settings, layered emotions, and a hint of suspense, Silent Creek should definitely be on your TBR.
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Jean M. Grant!
Silent Creek by Jean M. Grant seamlessly blends mystery, family drama, suspense, and character growth. This new-to-me author has crafted quite an emotional story that kept me engrossed with her well-developed characters and an atmospheric setting.
The novel follows a woman struggling with personal loss and uncertainty as she returns to her childhood home in the Mountains. What starts as an attempt to reconnect with her past quickly turns into a gripping mystery. As she digs deeper, secrets unfold, relationships are tested, and she’s forced to confront truths she never expected.
Ms. Grant does a great job of weaving the past and present, while slowly building the tension - which results in keeping you engaged without feeling like she’s rushing the story.
Silent Creek leaves quiet a powerful impression as we follow along as everything unfolds. And adding to the impact is the exploration of grief, healing, and finding strength in unexpected places.
So, if you love books with richly painted settings, layered emotions, and a hint of suspense, Silent Creek should definitely be on your TBR.
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Jean M. Grant!
May 20, 2025
I enjoyed reading this suspenseful story. This is a newer author for me which I enjoyed their writing style and their ability to pull me into the story from the start. I also enjoyed their attention to details that made their story feel real. This is a story about what happens when you need a second chance with life and the need for human connection. Josie runs a homestead that is in need of help. Everett just needs to leave his past behind him and have a second chance at life. What fate has in store for these two characters they won’t see coming. Is it possible to build trust and then what happens when said trust is put into question? I enjoyed both of these characters and what they bring to the story. They are strong, relatable and kept the story engaging for me. One of the things that stood out the most is their growth throughout the story which made it easy and entertaining to read. I found this story to be fast paced and hard to put down. I look forward to seeing what is next for this author in the future. I highly recommend this story.
May 21, 2025
Silent Creek is a story of a woman learning to live again after abuse. Josie Sawyer has finally escaped her abusive partner and is learning to become herself again. Taking refuge in her uncle’s mountain cabin, she can finally start to feel safe again. With the cabin comes some responsibilities, though, care for her uncle’s friend Hank and the homestead. In order to manage it all, she hires Everett, who is also attempting to leave a past behind him while raising his daughter. Both Josie and Everett will need to learn the true art of redemption and giving second chances before trust and possible love can bloom. Grant is a new author to me, but her writing hooked me from the beginning. It’s been quite a while since I read a romantic suspense that kept me locked in like this story did. If you like authors who are able to keep you intrigued while touching on dark themes, then this is the book for you. With just enough spice to keep things interesting and enough twists to keep you guessing, Silent Creek is a good book to pick up!
May 28, 2025
Silent Creek by Jean M. Grant. This is a great romance/women's fiction/mystery that is full of non stop drama. I read this in 2 short settings. Its the story of Josie who has finally been able to leave her abusive ex. He stole her identity to keep her from leaving but she is going to start over completely. Josie has inherited her Uncle's off the grid cabin and decides to start there. The cabin comes with her uncle's elderly friend Hank. When arriving at the cabin she realizes it needs help and not the kind of help Josie can do. Enter Everett who has just gotten out of prison for something he didn't even do so all he wants to do is work and get paid so that he can hire a lawyer to get his daughter, Lark back and get them a house of their own. Josie doesn't know if she can live off grid like this and Everett is very mysterious but she finds him very attractive. When Josie's past comes back to haunt her will she and Everett be able to handle it? This is such a fast paced book and I loved every minute of it!
June 8, 2025
This is an okay book for me. I really struggled at the beginning. I constantly felt like I was missing something causing me to reread. Also there were to many name drops and no real info about them (as its being kept hidden). Finally a quarter of the way through we get some concrete info on what is going on. Next it just seemed overly long to me. Possibly trying to create turmoil and other avenues for the mystery portion.
This interesting portions of the story was everything that goes into off the grid living. I can only imagine walking into that and knowing nothing and needing to learn. Then there is Hank. He is an wonderful addition to the cast. I could really see the caring him and Josie had for each other. I would call him spunky. This also touches on life after imprisonment and how hard it is to try to live a regular life. I think Everitt’s comment was “Guilty until proven innocent”. I also enjoyed the portions of the story told from Lark POV.
Overall. in my opinion, a nice story with some likable characters that create a little thrill.
This interesting portions of the story was everything that goes into off the grid living. I can only imagine walking into that and knowing nothing and needing to learn. Then there is Hank. He is an wonderful addition to the cast. I could really see the caring him and Josie had for each other. I would call him spunky. This also touches on life after imprisonment and how hard it is to try to live a regular life. I think Everitt’s comment was “Guilty until proven innocent”. I also enjoyed the portions of the story told from Lark POV.
Overall. in my opinion, a nice story with some likable characters that create a little thrill.
June 19, 2025
Silent Creek by Jean M. Grant was a very good read. This follows Everett and Josie who are both in same yet different ways are trying to get their lives back. Josie needed to get away and inheriting a off grid cabin was just what she needed. But at the same time, life off grid was something she needed help with. Everett was released from jail and got custody of his daughter Lark, and he needed to do whatever he could to keep her with him, job, home, and insurance. He jumps at the chance to help Josie and learn about off grid living. Along with Hank, everyone starts spending time together and slowly trust is trying to form. Then things around the homestead start happening. Things are missing, broken fences, and cigarette butts. This causes Josie to lose trust in Everett. And then add in the Sheriff, he makes ya wonder too!!
This romance, suspense, starting over book was one that I did not want to put down. There was never a dull moment and the amazing well built characters truly pull you into the book. Great read and highly recommend it!
This romance, suspense, starting over book was one that I did not want to put down. There was never a dull moment and the amazing well built characters truly pull you into the book. Great read and highly recommend it!
June 24, 2025
Silent Creek by Jean M. Grant
5 Star Review
When Josie’s world is torn away from her, she is forced to run and find a new life and a new beginning. Tate has taken everything and she is alone and desperate to disappear. Can she get far enough away that he will never find her? Can she actually hope to start again and leave that nightmare behind? Jean M. Grant has answered those questions and many more in an easy to read story that really pulls on your heart strings.
If Josie’s plight isn’t sad and scary enough, the author throws in the handsome and charming, Everett and his wonderful daughter, Lark. Everett is trying to live down and outrun his past while making a secure new life for his daughter. The author throws these two traumatized characters together by circumstance and sucks you into their story from the very beginning.
This book uses real emotion and detailed description to paint the picture of the story unfolding. This is a story that I really hope continues, and I highly recommend it!
5 Star Review
When Josie’s world is torn away from her, she is forced to run and find a new life and a new beginning. Tate has taken everything and she is alone and desperate to disappear. Can she get far enough away that he will never find her? Can she actually hope to start again and leave that nightmare behind? Jean M. Grant has answered those questions and many more in an easy to read story that really pulls on your heart strings.
If Josie’s plight isn’t sad and scary enough, the author throws in the handsome and charming, Everett and his wonderful daughter, Lark. Everett is trying to live down and outrun his past while making a secure new life for his daughter. The author throws these two traumatized characters together by circumstance and sucks you into their story from the very beginning.
This book uses real emotion and detailed description to paint the picture of the story unfolding. This is a story that I really hope continues, and I highly recommend it!
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