What do you think?
Rate this book
The Mind Breaker
Silas West studied the darkest minds in the world. Now one of them is studying him.
When a mutilated body washes ashore near Kingston, Washington, the local authorities are out of their depth. The injuries aren’t just brutal, they’re deliberate. A gruesome fusion of military torture and ritualistic branding.
Former military psychologist Silas West left D.C. to write a memoir and rebuild his life in a quiet town on Washington's Puget Sound. But when he’s asked to consult on the case, what begins as a favor turns into an obsession. And when another body surfaces—marked with symbols only he can understand—he realizes this isn’t just a pattern.
It’s a message.
And it might be addressed to him.
As the investigation deepens, Silas is pulled back into a chilling world of fractured psyches and brutal violence he thought he’d escaped. But it turns out some doors to the past stay locked for a reason. And some minds—once broken—can never be put back together.
Grab The Mind Breaker today, the first in a gripping new psychological mystery series from #1 international bestseller D.D. Black.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ “Silas West is the best kind of haunted, brilliant, and dangerously insightful.”
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ “Gripping, intense, yet full of heart. Impossible to put down.”
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ “Silas West is the best D.D. Black character yet!”
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ “A psychological mystery that gets under your skin and stays there."
The Silas West Psychological Mysteries – Series
Book 1: The Mind Breaker
Book 2: The Sin Collector
Book 3: The Chaos Merchant
When a mutilated body washes ashore near Kingston, Washington, the local authorities are out of their depth. The injuries aren’t just brutal, they’re deliberate. A gruesome fusion of military torture and ritualistic branding.
Former military psychologist Silas West left D.C. to write a memoir and rebuild his life in a quiet town on Washington's Puget Sound. But when he’s asked to consult on the case, what begins as a favor turns into an obsession. And when another body surfaces—marked with symbols only he can understand—he realizes this isn’t just a pattern.
It’s a message.
And it might be addressed to him.
As the investigation deepens, Silas is pulled back into a chilling world of fractured psyches and brutal violence he thought he’d escaped. But it turns out some doors to the past stay locked for a reason. And some minds—once broken—can never be put back together.
Grab The Mind Breaker today, the first in a gripping new psychological mystery series from #1 international bestseller D.D. Black.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ “Silas West is the best kind of haunted, brilliant, and dangerously insightful.”
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ “Gripping, intense, yet full of heart. Impossible to put down.”
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ “Silas West is the best D.D. Black character yet!”
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ “A psychological mystery that gets under your skin and stays there."
The Silas West Psychological Mysteries – Series
Book 1: The Mind Breaker
Book 2: The Sin Collector
Book 3: The Chaos Merchant
302 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 14, 2025
1120 people are currently reading
551 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
June 16, 2025
The Mind Breaker is scary, a psychological thriller that blends forensic psychology and personal terror. Black’s prose is taut and atmospheric, the Pacific Northwest settings vibrate, and the mystery unfolds with relentless tension as Silas is drawn deeper into a case that becomes eerily personal.
What makes the novel stand out is its exploration of trauma—not just the victims’ distress, but Silas’s own—layered beneath the procedural suspense.
With its vivid setting, unsettling brutality, and emotional depth, I found The Mind Breaker a dark, compelling read that I both wanted to and couldn’t put down.
What makes the novel stand out is its exploration of trauma—not just the victims’ distress, but Silas’s own—layered beneath the procedural suspense.
With its vivid setting, unsettling brutality, and emotional depth, I found The Mind Breaker a dark, compelling read that I both wanted to and couldn’t put down.
July 8, 2025
DD Black’s other series lulled me into expecting his new Silas West series to be an easy, enjoyable read. I hesitate to call this book enjoyable because the premise is so dark that I had to repeatedly take breaks to mitigate my growing tension. An interesting book, but not an easy one.
This book explores dissolving the self into nothing so that the mind/body can be reprogrammed. I found this extreme example disturbing. Psychological torture ranks up there with rape and skinning people. This novel has very little of that. But it excels in creating a psychological tension in the characters that creeps into the readers mind. I find that disturbing. — After finishing the book, I contemplated following that proverbial/spiritual maxim of following the light and watching the essence of who I am let go of everything, being absorbed into ???? nothing ???? But I let that idea go.
Philosophy aside, I enjoy Black’s characters. They are well-fleshed out and very human. I like the relationships the characters develop. I like that his “fight-scenes” are easy to follow.
Bottom line: I like this guy’s writing. I’ll continue to read his work. Good escape fiction—usually!!!!
This book explores dissolving the self into nothing so that the mind/body can be reprogrammed. I found this extreme example disturbing. Psychological torture ranks up there with rape and skinning people. This novel has very little of that. But it excels in creating a psychological tension in the characters that creeps into the readers mind. I find that disturbing. — After finishing the book, I contemplated following that proverbial/spiritual maxim of following the light and watching the essence of who I am let go of everything, being absorbed into ???? nothing ???? But I let that idea go.
Philosophy aside, I enjoy Black’s characters. They are well-fleshed out and very human. I like the relationships the characters develop. I like that his “fight-scenes” are easy to follow.
Bottom line: I like this guy’s writing. I’ll continue to read his work. Good escape fiction—usually!!!!
June 20, 2025
I found this novel more literary in tone than other books by this author. Black leverages his main character’s psychology background to delve deep into the trauma faced by soldiers and ultimately, the meaning of suffering. That lends some richness that is rare in the thriller genre, and makes me appreciate the literary bent Black gave the novel.
This book is deeper than Black’s previous works, without sacrificing what he’s known for. You still get the breakneck pace of an investigation on a timer, the haunting settings in Kitsap County, and the camaraderie of a team with unique talents, but you also get more introspection, thematic depth, and sharp analysis from the main character. Without giving away any spoilers, I was really struck by the climax of events. They had me tied in knots over what he put West through. It felt grittier and more intense than any of the Austin novels, and that is saying something, given some of what Austin faces. I love it when an author can outdo themselves.
This book is deeper than Black’s previous works, without sacrificing what he’s known for. You still get the breakneck pace of an investigation on a timer, the haunting settings in Kitsap County, and the camaraderie of a team with unique talents, but you also get more introspection, thematic depth, and sharp analysis from the main character. Without giving away any spoilers, I was really struck by the climax of events. They had me tied in knots over what he put West through. It felt grittier and more intense than any of the Austin novels, and that is saying something, given some of what Austin faces. I love it when an author can outdo themselves.
June 25, 2025
Put on your thinking cap and dive in…
If you are looking for an easy “fluff” mystery, you can forget this one.
The Mind Breaker is a thinking man’s journey into the depth of consciousness.
Psychological theory can be one person’s quest for understanding and healing and another man’s desire for control and to do harm. Where and when do we draw the line? How do our actions effect the actions of others and are we then, also, responsible?
Silas West does indeed ponder these questions while seeking justice and truth. He is a loner who discovers new bonds with individuals (and animals) due to extenuating and dangerous circumstances. The characters that D. D. Black has created are all multi-layered and unique. I’m certain that there is much more to be revealed in this new thriller series, along with other fascinating mysteries to be solved…I am grateful to have had the opportunity to read and offer my honest and voluntary review.
If you are looking for an easy “fluff” mystery, you can forget this one.
The Mind Breaker is a thinking man’s journey into the depth of consciousness.
Psychological theory can be one person’s quest for understanding and healing and another man’s desire for control and to do harm. Where and when do we draw the line? How do our actions effect the actions of others and are we then, also, responsible?
Silas West does indeed ponder these questions while seeking justice and truth. He is a loner who discovers new bonds with individuals (and animals) due to extenuating and dangerous circumstances. The characters that D. D. Black has created are all multi-layered and unique. I’m certain that there is much more to be revealed in this new thriller series, along with other fascinating mysteries to be solved…I am grateful to have had the opportunity to read and offer my honest and voluntary review.
June 16, 2025
D.D. Black has written the best of all books in his new series which will keep you alert and on your toes throughout. Strong characters and of course twists will have you guessing and of course guessing wrong. Silas, a retired military psychologist with an easygoing manner that will entice you to open up and tell all. Is he really easy going and trust worthy or is he hiding secrets? When a body washes up close to his new home, he remembers something from his long ago past. Add NCIS Olivia Raines and private investigator Isabel Solís and you have the making of brand-new team. Yippee cat character as well!
June 17, 2025
Erasure or Survival
Another great read by D. D. Black. New characters are introduced and captivate the reader in this psychological thriller. Silas West, military psychologist, retired, has watched what he had written long ago twisted into something never intended and so very wrong. Agent Olivia recruits him as a consultant for NCIS to help solve the case of ritual, ash and fire. Cassie, a very savvy PI offers clues and leads and joins what becomes a bonded team. The story moves quickly and draws the reader in with realism a great plot. I am already anticipating the next book and hopefully many more.
Another great read by D. D. Black. New characters are introduced and captivate the reader in this psychological thriller. Silas West, military psychologist, retired, has watched what he had written long ago twisted into something never intended and so very wrong. Agent Olivia recruits him as a consultant for NCIS to help solve the case of ritual, ash and fire. Cassie, a very savvy PI offers clues and leads and joins what becomes a bonded team. The story moves quickly and draws the reader in with realism a great plot. I am already anticipating the next book and hopefully many more.
July 3, 2025
I thought this book was alright and I’d recommend it for an afternoon palette cleanser. It’s short and while I thought the character had promise I didn’t quite love some of the side characters, I also thought that someone needed to re-read this as there seemed to be a couple of scene that happened off page, whether that was because the author was contracted to bring the book in within a limited number of pages or what but there was some definite holes. I’m not going to say I won’t read this author again as I downloaded the first in his Thomas Austin series. I did like this character but probably preferred the flashbacks more than anything else.
June 23, 2025
I think it needed some editing
There weren’t any noticeable typos, a few of which seem to make their way into all novels. But there were some inconsistencies worse than typos because they should have been caught by the editor or proofreader. The psychological stuff made it a little difficult for me, but that’s my shortcoming and bias. Still, the characters were interesting as was the setting. I will read the next in the series. D.D. Black is one of my two favorite crime/triller/police procedural authors.
There weren’t any noticeable typos, a few of which seem to make their way into all novels. But there were some inconsistencies worse than typos because they should have been caught by the editor or proofreader. The psychological stuff made it a little difficult for me, but that’s my shortcoming and bias. Still, the characters were interesting as was the setting. I will read the next in the series. D.D. Black is one of my two favorite crime/triller/police procedural authors.
July 30, 2025
I absolutely love this author's Thomas Austin series and this one, if book 1 is any indication, is shaping up to be another favorite for me.
Silas West is not your typical MMC, and I find that absolutely refreshing. The Mind Breaker was a study in a warped mind and nefarious government coverup. I was sucked in by the way Black weaved this mystery and couldn't stop thinking about whether or not something like this could actually happen. This was truly an exceptional read for me!
If you haven't found D.D. Black I encourage you to give him a try 🥰
Silas West is not your typical MMC, and I find that absolutely refreshing. The Mind Breaker was a study in a warped mind and nefarious government coverup. I was sucked in by the way Black weaved this mystery and couldn't stop thinking about whether or not something like this could actually happen. This was truly an exceptional read for me!
If you haven't found D.D. Black I encourage you to give him a try 🥰
August 11, 2025
Adventurous and Delightful
Silas West is amazing, both the book AND the person in the book. DD Black seems to outdo himself with each of his books. I am so hooked! Absolutely loved the supporting cast with Olivia and Cassie AND of course, Ashes, stray cat extraordinaire. He is my ONLY author at this time and I look forward to the upcoming continuation of his stories. Thanks Adam! No really, thanks Adam!
Silas West is amazing, both the book AND the person in the book. DD Black seems to outdo himself with each of his books. I am so hooked! Absolutely loved the supporting cast with Olivia and Cassie AND of course, Ashes, stray cat extraordinaire. He is my ONLY author at this time and I look forward to the upcoming continuation of his stories. Thanks Adam! No really, thanks Adam!
September 9, 2025
Not at all what I expected
I love mysteries and psychological thrillers but wasn't too sure about this book. Don't usually read books that have military themes but thought I'd give this a try.
What a good idea!
The characters were well defined, the plot was well developed and quick paced. It was suspenseful with just the right amount of tension.
I really couldn't put the book down, just had to keep turning pages until the end.
Definitely a 5 star read for me.
I love mysteries and psychological thrillers but wasn't too sure about this book. Don't usually read books that have military themes but thought I'd give this a try.
What a good idea!
The characters were well defined, the plot was well developed and quick paced. It was suspenseful with just the right amount of tension.
I really couldn't put the book down, just had to keep turning pages until the end.
Definitely a 5 star read for me.
June 17, 2025
The first book in the author's new Silas West series was very readable. The characters were fascinating. I think Silas is even more complicated the Black's other series leaders. I really enjoyed the psychological component of the book. I thought the pace was well done. I would recommend this book and will definitely read the next book in the series.
June 17, 2025
This was book 1 in a new series by this fave author of mine and it was quite the read! Silas is a former military psychologist and he is called to help investigate when a couple of bodies wash ashore off the Washington coast. As he digs further with NCIS and a local PI, he is pulled back into a dark world of psychotic violence. Loved it!
July 6, 2025
My type of book
I lean towards books that give psychological insight into the mind of the killer. This did it. I found value in exploring the angst of Silas and the puzzle solving that goes into the psychological aspects of the case. I enjoyed the character development of all the characters.
I lean towards books that give psychological insight into the mind of the killer. This did it. I found value in exploring the angst of Silas and the puzzle solving that goes into the psychological aspects of the case. I enjoyed the character development of all the characters.
July 30, 2025
New Psychology Thriller.
Very different from the Austin and FBI novels. Don't be fooled this book is different. It introduced us to Silas West. A man with a distinct set of skills. You will be hooked from page one. You are in for a treat. Give it a try, it will keep up late into the night.
Very different from the Austin and FBI novels. Don't be fooled this book is different. It introduced us to Silas West. A man with a distinct set of skills. You will be hooked from page one. You are in for a treat. Give it a try, it will keep up late into the night.
August 3, 2025
fantastic
I’ve read all of the Thomas Austin books by Dee Dee Black and they were great now I’m onto this new series as Silas West psychological mystery and it kept me going from the first chapter till the end without a stop. And another great series I’m looking forward to reading..
I’ve read all of the Thomas Austin books by Dee Dee Black and they were great now I’m onto this new series as Silas West psychological mystery and it kept me going from the first chapter till the end without a stop. And another great series I’m looking forward to reading..
August 4, 2025
Excellent mystery
This book was extremely well written. The language was descriptive and enough so to make you feel the tension and eerie-ness of what he characters were going through. I loved the companionship formed between Silas, Olivia, and Cassie. I would love to read more by the author. Highly recommend.
This book was extremely well written. The language was descriptive and enough so to make you feel the tension and eerie-ness of what he characters were going through. I loved the companionship formed between Silas, Olivia, and Cassie. I would love to read more by the author. Highly recommend.
August 23, 2025
stately, dignified storytelling
A solitary now-bachelor, on the cusp of half a century, sits alone in the apartment above a restaurant - the waterfront property an inheritance. Divorced, retired (he tells himself), he espies law enforcement apparently recovering a body - and his peaceful, quiet retirement implodes.
A solitary now-bachelor, on the cusp of half a century, sits alone in the apartment above a restaurant - the waterfront property an inheritance. Divorced, retired (he tells himself), he espies law enforcement apparently recovering a body - and his peaceful, quiet retirement implodes.
September 26, 2025
Psycho Thriller…?
Lost, trapped by his past, military psychologist,Silas West, is drawn, not by choice, but circumstances, into the hunt for a sadistic madman who’s killing people, after marking them. What he finds is more than just sadism. The story is slow at first, but builds to a climatic conclusion, worthy of the wait.
Lost, trapped by his past, military psychologist,Silas West, is drawn, not by choice, but circumstances, into the hunt for a sadistic madman who’s killing people, after marking them. What he finds is more than just sadism. The story is slow at first, but builds to a climatic conclusion, worthy of the wait.
November 30, 2025
A new band of sleuths
This was a slow read for me. Great storyline and characters slow yet once ready the book flies through the investigation. Silas is strong and caring. Olivia is plenty tough and Cassie is the no nonsense wise-cracking PI. Mr. Black is excellent at creating characters that you really could know and have in your life. Another homerun series.
This was a slow read for me. Great storyline and characters slow yet once ready the book flies through the investigation. Silas is strong and caring. Olivia is plenty tough and Cassie is the no nonsense wise-cracking PI. Mr. Black is excellent at creating characters that you really could know and have in your life. Another homerun series.
June 15, 2025
a real mind bender
Great new character and a story that keeps you trying to figure out the head games that are both disturbing and enlightening. Can’t wait to read more Silas adventures.
Great new character and a story that keeps you trying to figure out the head games that are both disturbing and enlightening. Can’t wait to read more Silas adventures.
June 16, 2025
A new series that looks to be fantastic. Past work and actions come to haunt Silas. He pairs up with NCIS agent Olivia and their hunt for the murderer and why Hale was killed. The twist and turns lead them down a dark trail . This is going to be a great series.
June 21, 2025
I have mixed feelings about this, much different than the Thomas Austin books. The plot is interesting, but didn't resonate with me like the other series. I didn't hate the book, it did keep my interest to the end and do plan to read the next in this series.
June 22, 2025
This is an excellent start to the Silas West series. It’s a very good psychological thriller. The twists and turns in the plot are intriguing. Silas and Olivia make a great duo. Looking forward to more episodes
June 24, 2025
Wow! What a ride
Such a twisted tale of secret programs gone away and twisted into something even worse. This psychological thriller had me enthralled until the end. A must read for anyone who is a fan of the genre.
Such a twisted tale of secret programs gone away and twisted into something even worse. This psychological thriller had me enthralled until the end. A must read for anyone who is a fan of the genre.
July 8, 2025
great read!
I thought this was an excellent story The characters were fleshed out enough to make me anxious for the next installment The twists and turns kept it interesting through the very end This is going to be a series for those of us who love a great thriller
I thought this was an excellent story The characters were fleshed out enough to make me anxious for the next installment The twists and turns kept it interesting through the very end This is going to be a series for those of us who love a great thriller
July 20, 2025
I have enjoyed several of this author’s books, but this one was a bit much for me. Individually i understand every word in this book; put together in many sentences in this book, not so much. Read as what we used to call psycho babble. Not sure I will pursue this series
July 27, 2025
Intense , Mind Breaking Read from D.D. Black
Aptly titled. I found this the most psychologically intense story I’ve read from this author. Actually had to step away from it twice, half an hour at a time, just to calm my brain before moving forward with it.
Kudos to D.D. Black!
Aptly titled. I found this the most psychologically intense story I’ve read from this author. Actually had to step away from it twice, half an hour at a time, just to calm my brain before moving forward with it.
Kudos to D.D. Black!
August 5, 2025
Kingston Lovers
For us locals, there are some locations described in the book that fit well with the places in Kingston. I found myself trying to "guess" their secret identities. The actual story is a good read as all of his books are.
For us locals, there are some locations described in the book that fit well with the places in Kingston. I found myself trying to "guess" their secret identities. The actual story is a good read as all of his books are.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews