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Silencing Sofia
A gripping Sapphic "Traumance" novel about the deadly cost of secrets and the healing power of love.
A chance encounter.
An unexpected love.
A brutal attack.
Sofia survived the night meant to end her life, but the physical scars were just the beginning of her nightmare.
Now, the quaint Texas streets she grew up on are the same ones trying to silence her.
Haunted by trauma and an impossible decision, she must find out for herself if love truly is enough to survive the darkest moments of her life.
Author’s Silencing Sofia is a story that explores profound themes of trauma, survival, and finding your voice. As a lesbian and a survivor of sexual assault, it was important to me to write a sapphic romantic suspense novel that handles these topics with the nuance and respect they require. Please be advised that this book contains sensitive subject matter which are handled with care and are strictly not glorified. For a complete, detailed list of content warnings, please visit my website at www.authorcrystallopez.com
A chance encounter.
An unexpected love.
A brutal attack.
Sofia survived the night meant to end her life, but the physical scars were just the beginning of her nightmare.
Now, the quaint Texas streets she grew up on are the same ones trying to silence her.
Haunted by trauma and an impossible decision, she must find out for herself if love truly is enough to survive the darkest moments of her life.
Author’s Silencing Sofia is a story that explores profound themes of trauma, survival, and finding your voice. As a lesbian and a survivor of sexual assault, it was important to me to write a sapphic romantic suspense novel that handles these topics with the nuance and respect they require. Please be advised that this book contains sensitive subject matter which are handled with care and are strictly not glorified. For a complete, detailed list of content warnings, please visit my website at www.authorcrystallopez.com
404 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 10, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
March 24, 2026
I tried to like this story, but seriously. It feels like pro life propaganda with some lesbian romance thrown in.
I get that the author has her own trauma, but I could never imagine going through this and loving 'Phoenix', let alone the mother of the monster in this book.
I get that the author has her own trauma, but I could never imagine going through this and loving 'Phoenix', let alone the mother of the monster in this book.
March 18, 2026
Right out of the gate, this book had my heart breaking before I even fully understood the story. There’s something about the way it opens that just grips you like you already know you’re about to feel everything.
Silencing Sofia is a deeply emotional sapphic story that doesn’t hold back. It explores pain, control, identity, and what it means to find your voice in a world determined to silence you. And Sofia… she stays with you. Watching her navigate everything thrown at her was equal parts heartbreaking and powerful.
The sapphic romance adds such a meaningful layer to the story. It’s not just about love it’s about safety, understanding, and finally being seen. That connection felt raw and real, especially against everything working against them.
What really stood out to me was the comeback. Not in a dramatic, unrealistic way but in a slow, messy, deeply human way. The kind of healing that isn’t pretty, but it’s real. It hurt to read, but it also felt beautiful watching her reclaim pieces of herself.
The writing pulls you in emotionally more than anything else. It’s not just about what happens it’s about how it feels. And I definitely felt it. This isn’t a light read. It’s heavy, impactful, and at times uncomfortable but it’s also incredibly meaningful. The kind of story that lingers with you long after you finish.
If you’re looking for an emotional sapphic read that will break your heart and slowly piece it back together… this one delivers.
Silencing Sofia is a deeply emotional sapphic story that doesn’t hold back. It explores pain, control, identity, and what it means to find your voice in a world determined to silence you. And Sofia… she stays with you. Watching her navigate everything thrown at her was equal parts heartbreaking and powerful.
The sapphic romance adds such a meaningful layer to the story. It’s not just about love it’s about safety, understanding, and finally being seen. That connection felt raw and real, especially against everything working against them.
What really stood out to me was the comeback. Not in a dramatic, unrealistic way but in a slow, messy, deeply human way. The kind of healing that isn’t pretty, but it’s real. It hurt to read, but it also felt beautiful watching her reclaim pieces of herself.
The writing pulls you in emotionally more than anything else. It’s not just about what happens it’s about how it feels. And I definitely felt it. This isn’t a light read. It’s heavy, impactful, and at times uncomfortable but it’s also incredibly meaningful. The kind of story that lingers with you long after you finish.
If you’re looking for an emotional sapphic read that will break your heart and slowly piece it back together… this one delivers.
March 18, 2026
5 Star read.
Crystal Lopez was not lying that this book will both break your heart and repair it.
Sofias relentless strength, determination, and her will to survive is inspiring and admirable.
Allies unwavering love, devotion, and protectiveness of Sofia shows that there is no limit when it comes to love. This story is a roller coaster of emotions. From happiness to heartbreak to grief and then heartwarming. Not only because of the HEA between Allie and Sofia but because we get to see Sofia rise from the ashes like a Phoenix!
Crystal Lopez was not lying that this book will both break your heart and repair it.
Sofias relentless strength, determination, and her will to survive is inspiring and admirable.
Allies unwavering love, devotion, and protectiveness of Sofia shows that there is no limit when it comes to love. This story is a roller coaster of emotions. From happiness to heartbreak to grief and then heartwarming. Not only because of the HEA between Allie and Sofia but because we get to see Sofia rise from the ashes like a Phoenix!
March 17, 2026
Damn, this is a roller coaster of emotions. I don't think I've ever cried this much reading a book, including Atmosphere (which is well known to be a snot cry). It's so well written, you can feel the love and all the other emotions that went into it. I'm really looking forward to the next book! She's a new author, but this girl is going places!
April 12, 2026
I like reading new authors debut novels. This book hit it out of the park! What a great story to follow although sometimes thinking you know what's going to happen before you turn the next page! I understand this is the first in a trilogy and I honestly can't wait for the next installment! This author is definitely going places!
May 2, 2026
Beautifully Written
The author captures every emotion you could possibly feel. The words used brought you close to each character. You truly go thru all the feelings they went thru!
The author captures every emotion you could possibly feel. The words used brought you close to each character. You truly go thru all the feelings they went thru!
April 16, 2026
Good story, wasn't sure where it was going but un the end it finished great!
August 16, 2026
What a tale. Very descriptive through trauma and grief. The authors note prepares for triggers. Fortunately a love story as well.
April 17, 2026
Reading Mood Check:
If you’re in the mood for an emotional sapphic story that’s heavy, healing, and deeply character‑driven, the kind that breaks your heart and slowly puts it back together, this is the book you should reach for 🖤✨
Quick Summary:
Silencing Sofia follows a young woman trying to rebuild her life after surviving a brutal attack that was meant to silence her forever. Returning to her small Texas hometown only brings more pressure and fear, but it also leads her to an unexpected connection with Allie; someone who sees her, believes her, and refuses to let her fade into the background. Their relationship becomes a lifeline as Sofia fights to reclaim her voice and navigate the trauma that still shadows every part of her life.
Worldbuilding, Characters, Plot and Pacing:
This book is emotional from start to finish. Literally. Paeg 1 starts with a 911 call. Sofia’s journey is raw, painful, and incredibly human, the kind of healing that isn’t linear or pretty, but real. Allie brings warmth and safety into the story, and their sapphic romance adds a meaningful layer of comfort and understanding. The writing focuses heavily on emotion and internal struggle, and the pacing reflects that: slow, intentional, and deeply immersive. It’s a tough read at times, but also a powerful one 💛
Tropes/or what to expect:
Sapphic romance 🌈
Trauma recovery
Small‑town tension
Emotional healing
Survivor strength
Slow, steady rebuilding
Final Thoughts:
This book is heavy, but it’s handled with care and honesty. Sofia’s resilience and Allie’s unwavering support make the story both heartbreaking and hopeful. It’s the kind of read that lingers long after you finish, not because of shock value, but because of how deeply human it feels. If you want a sapphic romantic suspense that’s emotional, impactful, and centered on survival and reclaiming your voice, this one absolutely delivers 🖤 One star removed because, for me personally, the pacing felt a bit slow in places and could have been tightened. This is purely a matter of personal preference, not a reflection of the author’s talent.
Perfect for readers who love:
Emotional sapphic stories
Survivor‑centered narratives
Romance rooted in safety and trust
Slow, realistic healing arcs
Small‑town suspense
If you’re in the mood for an emotional sapphic story that’s heavy, healing, and deeply character‑driven, the kind that breaks your heart and slowly puts it back together, this is the book you should reach for 🖤✨
Quick Summary:
Silencing Sofia follows a young woman trying to rebuild her life after surviving a brutal attack that was meant to silence her forever. Returning to her small Texas hometown only brings more pressure and fear, but it also leads her to an unexpected connection with Allie; someone who sees her, believes her, and refuses to let her fade into the background. Their relationship becomes a lifeline as Sofia fights to reclaim her voice and navigate the trauma that still shadows every part of her life.
Worldbuilding, Characters, Plot and Pacing:
This book is emotional from start to finish. Literally. Paeg 1 starts with a 911 call. Sofia’s journey is raw, painful, and incredibly human, the kind of healing that isn’t linear or pretty, but real. Allie brings warmth and safety into the story, and their sapphic romance adds a meaningful layer of comfort and understanding. The writing focuses heavily on emotion and internal struggle, and the pacing reflects that: slow, intentional, and deeply immersive. It’s a tough read at times, but also a powerful one 💛
Tropes/or what to expect:
Sapphic romance 🌈
Trauma recovery
Small‑town tension
Emotional healing
Survivor strength
Slow, steady rebuilding
Final Thoughts:
This book is heavy, but it’s handled with care and honesty. Sofia’s resilience and Allie’s unwavering support make the story both heartbreaking and hopeful. It’s the kind of read that lingers long after you finish, not because of shock value, but because of how deeply human it feels. If you want a sapphic romantic suspense that’s emotional, impactful, and centered on survival and reclaiming your voice, this one absolutely delivers 🖤 One star removed because, for me personally, the pacing felt a bit slow in places and could have been tightened. This is purely a matter of personal preference, not a reflection of the author’s talent.
Perfect for readers who love:
Emotional sapphic stories
Survivor‑centered narratives
Romance rooted in safety and trust
Slow, realistic healing arcs
Small‑town suspense
July 8, 2026
Emotionally Powerful Read
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Silencing Sofia was an emotional, intense, and unforgettable read. This story wasn’t just about the events that happened to Sofia—it was about the aftermath, the healing process, and the strength it takes to keep going when life feels impossible.
Sofia’s journey was heartbreaking, but what stood out to me the most was the love and support surrounding her. Allie’s decision to stay by Sofia’s side through everything showed such incredible strength, loyalty, and unconditional love. That kind of support is something truly special, and it really showed what resilience looks like.
I also loved the bond between the family members. Their closeness, protectiveness, and willingness to stand together through the hardest moments added so much emotion to the story. It was a reminder that having people who believe in you and refuse to walk away can make all the difference.
This book was heavy at times, but it was written in a way that made me feel the characters’ pain, strength, and determination. The suspense kept me wanting to know what would happen next, but the emotional impact of Sofia’s story is what stayed with me the most.
Be sure to check the trigger warnings before reading, but if you enjoy emotional stories filled with suspense, love, and powerful characters, this is definitely one to pick up.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Silencing Sofia was an emotional, intense, and unforgettable read. This story wasn’t just about the events that happened to Sofia—it was about the aftermath, the healing process, and the strength it takes to keep going when life feels impossible.
Sofia’s journey was heartbreaking, but what stood out to me the most was the love and support surrounding her. Allie’s decision to stay by Sofia’s side through everything showed such incredible strength, loyalty, and unconditional love. That kind of support is something truly special, and it really showed what resilience looks like.
I also loved the bond between the family members. Their closeness, protectiveness, and willingness to stand together through the hardest moments added so much emotion to the story. It was a reminder that having people who believe in you and refuse to walk away can make all the difference.
This book was heavy at times, but it was written in a way that made me feel the characters’ pain, strength, and determination. The suspense kept me wanting to know what would happen next, but the emotional impact of Sofia’s story is what stayed with me the most.
Be sure to check the trigger warnings before reading, but if you enjoy emotional stories filled with suspense, love, and powerful characters, this is definitely one to pick up.
May 22, 2026
Silencing Sofia by Crystal Lopez was such an emotional and powerful read. The story handled trauma, healing, and love with so much care that I found myself deeply connected to Sofia’s journey from the very beginning. The romance felt genuine, and the suspense kept me completely invested the whole time. It’s heartbreaking at moments, but also incredibly hopeful and beautifully written.
May 11, 2026
3.5
decent read and wasn’t really what i was expecting
decent read and wasn’t really what i was expecting
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews