Her Silence

by S.T. Ashman

*ARC copies currently available on Netgalley! (Short time only).

She survived the night. The truth didn't.

Nicole gets the call at 4 a.m. Her daughter Lacey was found in the woods beside her friend's dead husband. He was stabbed forty-four times. Lacey is barely alive. Covered in his blood. And completely mute.
She hasn't said a word since. Not to the police. Not to her husband. Not even to Nicole.

Nicole had Lacey at seventeen and swore her daughter would have a good life. Now Lacey is sitting in a cell, and Nicole's three grandchildren are left behind with a father who is losing it.

But Nicole knows her daughter. She isn't a cold-blooded murderer. Guilt didn't silence her. Fear did. Whatever happened in those woods scared Lacey more than prison.

So Nicole starts digging. But some secrets don't save people. They bury them.

Genres: Thriller, Mystery, Fiction, Suspense

Unknown Binding

Expected publication July 21, 2026

About the author

S. T. Ashman is an American-German author who calls the beautiful U.S. Seacoast home. A graduate of the University of Pennsylvania, she spent years working as a psychotherapist in the criminal justice system. The work gave her a rare window into the human mind, both the beautiful and the deeply shadowed. It's no wonder readers often say her characters feel real enough to step off the page.
When she's not crafting her next twisty tale, you'll find her chasing after her kids, nose-deep in a book, or curled up late at night with a horror movie and a husband who always falls asleep on the couch before the scary parts.

Reviews

[TheConnieFox · Rating 4 out of 5]

This thriller novel was extremely addictive, mysterious, and terrifying. I love that this story and the characters were both very multilayered. It is emotional and incredibly deep. It’s more than just a thriller novel; there are layers to it. What initially attracted me to this book was the cover and the story’s description. I was curious whether it would live up to my expectations, and it really did! I can tell the author really put a lot of effort and time into creating this! It is very well written, easy to read, and full of twists!

This novel is written from different points of view and across different timelines. This really gave me a good perspective on the main characters and what they were thinking and going through. I felt every emotion while reading this. It’s about not giving up on family, complex characters, and trauma. My favorite character in the story was, of course, Lacey’s Mom, Nicole. The love she has for her daughter is so precious. Nicole is a fighter, and she does everything it takes to protect her daughter and the family. She even risks putting her own life in danger. This is more of a fast-paced novel with strong character development! In my opinion, this one will definitely be getting a movie adaptation! It is powerful in so many ways! I give this book a 4.5 out of 5 stars!

Thank you to NetGalley, author S. T. Ashman, and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for this eARC in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

This book is expected to be released on July 21, 2026!

[Sheri · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was the perfect rainy-day-at-the-cabin read. I flew through Her Silence in just over a day because I couldn’t put it down. The story kept me engaged from the beginning, with unexpected twists woven throughout that had me constantly second-guessing what would happen next. Just when I thought I had things figured out, another surprise pulled me back in. I also found myself genuinely invested in the characters and eager to see how everything would unfold. If you enjoy fast-paced thrillers with plenty of twists and turns, this is one to add to your list.

Thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Mickey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lacey was found in the woods beside a man stabbed forty-four times. Covered in blood. Barely alive. And since then she hasn't spoken a single word.
Everyone thinks she's a killer. But her mother knows better. Whatever happened that night didn’t just leave bodies behind… it left terror buried in the silence.

This book absolutely wrecked me. I couldn't put it down for a second. The tension, the heartbreak, the rage. Perfect.
And speaking of rage… Brian has officially joined my list of most hated book characters of all time. I can’t even explain why without spoilers, but just know that man had me SEETHING. Meanwhile, my favourite character was Ginny the doberman. Again, can't say why without spoilers, but just know she is a QUEEN.
The writing was incredible and I flew through this so fast. My heart broke for Lacey and her family (minus Brian, obviously). But Part One? DEVASTATING. I was already emotional over Ginny, then the ending of Part One came along and absolutely destroyed me. I genuinely had no idea where the story could go after that, but Part Two from Dylan’s POV still packed one hell of an emotional punch. I was a mess by the end.
Easily my favourite book by this author so far. Zero notes. Okay, one note: Brian should’ve been killed off...

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

I knew when I read the synopsis and saw all the 5 star reviews that this book was going to be something special. I tore through the pages and audibly said “what!” about 4 times. Not only was this fast-paced with short chapters, but this thriller pulls at the heart strings. Definitely a read in a day type of book. Also, the scene with the dog (don’t worry nothing happens to him) might be the best scene I have ever read!

Lacey is found in the woods next to her best friend’s murdered husband. She’s gone mute, has multiple injuries, and the police have no other suspects. Her mom Nicole is taking care of the house, her kids, and her husband who is spiraling out of control. She is determined to find who the real killer is and stops at nothing to protect her family.

Thank you NetGalley for this ARC! What a wild ride!

[Valerie Lady Lair Booktique · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could not put this book down. From the very first chapter, it pulled me in completely and kept me guessing the entire time. If you like fast-paced thrillers with twist after twist, this is absolutely the book for you. Every time I thought I had figured things out, the story took another unexpected turn. I finished it and I’m still not entirely sure what really happened… and honestly? That’s what made it so good.

[Tara Leigh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, what an absolutely wild ride!

This book was unpredictable, dripping with suspense, and genuinely impossible to put down. S.T. Ashman never lets me down.

If you need a thriller that will completely consume you, I highly recommend this one!

[Kyreadsthrillers · Rating 5 out of 5]

This one was such a good read. The writing had me hooked right from the beginning and I definitely flew through it. It wastes no time pulling you in, and the storyline catches your interest fast. I needed to know what really happened that night and every chapter kept me wanting more.

I loved the characters… minus Brian 🤣 He definitely got on my nerves. But the family dynamics in this one really stood out to me. As a boy mom, I especially loved the relationship between the son and mom.

This was a fast, engaging thriller with secrets, family drama, and twists that kept me locked in. If you like books that grab you immediately and keep the pages turning, definitely pick this one up.

[Kate Atkinson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Her Silence by S T Ashman was a gripping and fast-paced read that kept me hooked from the start. The story is shocking and upsetting in places, especially with the strong themes of death and grief running throughout, but it’s also a powerful story about family loyalty, resilience, and inner strength.
The characters felt believable, and the emotional moments really stayed with me. Just when I thought I had worked everything out, the plot twist completely caught me off guard. A tense and emotional thriller that’s hard to put down.

[Katlin Stokes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley for a copy of this book. Wow this book literally started with a punch! It kept me engaged and I couldn't put it down. I especially loved the twist!

[Nicole Hancock · Rating 5 out of 5]

I started and finished this in one day - got sucked in from the outset and was compelled to finish! Wife, mom and daughter Lacey gets into some trouble and things spiral from there. Absolutely loved the characters of Lacey's mom Nicole and son Dylan and how much they love Lacey. Loved Ginny the Doberman. I half predicted some aspects of how things resolved, but didn't reduce my enjoyment of the book. A wild ride that was emotional at times.

Thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing for providing me with an advance reader's copy in exchange for an honest review.

Expected pub date: July 21, 2026.

[Keri Gilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this one. From the beginning I had a feeling something was off and I spent the entire book trying to figure out who was telling the truth. Every time I thought I had it figured out, the story would shift just enough to make me question everything all over again.

The family dynamics, secrets, and tension kept me completely invested. I especially liked that the twists didn’t feel thrown in just for shock value. Looking back after finishing, there were little moments and clues planted throughout that made the ending feel satisfying instead of random.

Dylan ended up being one of the most interesting characters to me because my opinion of him kept changing throughout the story. Suspicious, smart, unsettling, observant… honestly I never fully knew what to think.

This was one of those thrillers that keeps you mentally investigating the entire time, and I love books that can actually make me do that. Definitely a bingeable read for thriller fans who love messy relationships, secrets, and constantly second-guessing everyone.

[Msz Bee · Rating 5 out of 5]

𝑹𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘 𝒐𝒇 𝒂𝒅𝒗𝒂𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝒄𝒐𝒑𝒚 𝒓𝒆𝒄𝒆𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒅

I feel honored to be able to review Her Silence by S.T Ashman. Thank you Victory Editing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an ARC.

Fast-paced and impossible to put down, full of twist that will have you guessing what’s next? This story has the MOST TWISTED ENDING!

When Nicole received that unexpected call early morning. It was the day that everything was changing for her , her grandkids and her daughter Lacey.

A mother’s love is to be protective and like any mother will do, fight for her children until the end.

This story will have you addicted from the beginning. Unexpected events will have you gasping. I was living Lacey’s story, my heart was beating fast like It was me going thru all the emotions .

The real question is, who was Zach’s killer? What really happened that night is the answer everyone needed .

[Larae Perry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Her Silence was everything I want in a psychological thriller — tense, emotional, and impossible to put down. Every chapter pulled me deeper into the mystery, and just when I thought I had things figured out, the story twisted again. S.T. Ashman did such a great job building suspense while also making the characters feel real and layered.
What really stood out to me was the atmosphere and the way the silence between characters said just as much as the dialogue. The pacing kept me hooked the entire time, and the ending genuinely shocked me in the best way. If you love thrillers that keep your heart racing and your mind guessing, this one absolutely delivers. Easy 5 stars from me.

[Beth Riggs · Rating 5 out of 5]

Her Silence had me hooked from the very beginning. It was fast paced and kept me on the edge of my seat. Just when I thought I had it figured out, nope! I gobbled it up in two short days.

Lacey is found in the woods next to her best friend's dead husband. She is covered in blood, hers and the dead husband, and she has multiple injuries of her own. Unfortunately, she is the one and only suspect in the case and she is so traumatized that she's gone mute! Lacey's mom, Nicole, steps in to take care of everything in addition to trying to find the real killer.

Thank you to the author and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC. It's a good one!

[Kim · Rating 4 out of 5]

Anything by S.T. Ashman is an auto-read for me! I can always count on a masterfully woven tale and complex, interesting characters, and Her Silence did not disappoint.

I was immediately drawn in by the eye-catching cover, but the story itself is what truly sparked. The words flow from the page like electricity, providing jolt after jolt of excitement. It’s the kind of writing that keeps you electrified and eager to see what the next page brings.

What really sealed the deal for me was the family dynamic. I love a story where families go hard for each other, and that loyalty was the heartbeat of this book. A must-read for fans of high-stakes tension and deep-rooted character bonds!

[Daniela Lee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Her Silence by ST Ashman was such an addictive thriller that had me hooked almost immediately. The twist kept coming and every time I thought I had the ending figured out, I was wrong. Which is exactly what I want from a thriller.

Lacey and Dylan were both relatable, and I liked them instantly. The ending delivered all the gratification I was hoping for.

Personally, I wish there was a little more depth and emotional stakes, but again, that’s just a preference. Give me all the emotional damage. 😏

If you’re looking for a fast-paced, easy-to-read thriller that will keep you guessing until the end, I’d definitely recommend adding this one to your TBR.

[Melissa Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not a dull moment in this one! Lacey was found in the woods beside her best friends dead husband. Stabbed 44 times, and Lacey charged with his murder.

I will say there’s way more than meets the eye in this book. Lots of time jumps where you feel the story has ended just for it to take another turn. Strong themes of family loyalty and pursuing the truth. This was a quick read!

[Monica Gherghel · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.75⭐

👀👄: În ultima perioadă citesc rar altceva decât dark romance, dar, îmi e dor din când în când de câte un thriller. Rar am găsit, în ultimă vreme, unul care să mă captiveze de la primele pagini și care să mă facă să citesc obsesiv, să văd ce se întâmplă. Am fost extrem de surprinsă când autoarea mi-a propus acest ARC. Dar nu am refuzat pentru că eu mai citisem de la ea, IKK crime series, unde "I kill killers" mi-a plăcut foarte mult. Cât sunt de norocoasă că am acceptat.

Unul dintre cele mai bune thrillere citite vreodată.

Ceea ce face cărțile ei atât de speciale este latura psihologică din spatele poveștii și a personajelor. Nu am crezut vreodată că pot plânge la un thriller, dar am făcut - o de mai multe ori citind. O poveste incredibilă, care te ține în suspans de la început și care se dezvoltă incredibil, personaje extrem de bine conturate, familie, iubire necondiționată și infinită, putere și luptă pentru dreptate. Plot twist -urile de la sfârșit te lasă fără cuvinte. Atâtea idei și păreri îți faci pe parcursul lecturii, fiecare scenă și frază îți dau fiori și îți trezesc nenumărate sentimente, iar sfârșitul este neașteptat.

📖: Lacey, este o mamă a trei copii, care se luptă zilnic cu viața de familie, responsabilități, un soț destul de înstrăinat de îndatorirea de tată și partener de viață, care, împreună cu prietena ei cea mai bună, Amanda, soțul acesteia Zach și soțul lui Lacey, Brian, hotărăsc o mică escapadă la casa luxoasă a Amandei. Dimineață, mama lui Lacey, Nicole, primește un telefon de la detectivul Nolan, că Zach a fost găsit mort, înjunghiat de peste 40 de ori, în mașina lui, iar Lacey în pădure, plină de sânge, cu hainele sfâșiate și în stare de șoc. După ce lucrurile s-au mai calmat un pic, justiția o găsesc vinovată pe Lacey și o încarcerează până când începe procesul. Doar că Lacey nu își mai revine, nu vorbește, se mișcă ca un robot și este într-o permanentă stare catatonică. Nicole, o mamă care nu își poate abandona fiica, începe să investigheze pe cont propriu pentru a descoperi ce s-a întâmplat de fapt în ziua aceea.
📖
Lately I rarely read anything other than dark romances, but I miss a thriller from time to time. I have rarely found one that captivates me from the first pages and makes me read obsessively to see what happens. I was extremely surprised when the author proposed this ARC to me. But I did not refuse because I had read her before, IKK crime series, where I really liked "I kill killers". How lucky I am that I accepted.

One of the best thrillers I have ever read.

What makes her books so special is the psychological side behind the story and the characters. I never thought I could cry at a thriller, but I did it several times while reading. An incredible story, that keeps you in suspense from the beginning and that develops incredibly: extremely well-defined characters, family, unconditional and infinite love, strength and the fight for justice. The plot twists at the end leave you speechless. So many ideas and opinions you form while reading, every scene and sentence gives you chills and awakens countless feelings, and the ending is unexpected.

Lacey, is a mother of three children, who struggles daily with family life, responsibilities, a husband quite alienated from his duty as a father and life partner, who, together with her best friend, Amanda, her husband Zach and Lacey's husband, Brian, decide to have a little getaway to Amanda's luxurious home. In the morning, Lacey's mother, Nicole, receives a call from Detective Nolan, that Zach has been found dead, stabbed over 40 times, in his car, and Lacey in the woods, covered in blood, with torn clothes and in a state of shock. After things calm down a bit, the justice system finds Lacey guilty and locks her up until her trial begins. But Lacey never recovers, she doesn't speak, moves like a robot and is in a permanent catatonic state. Nicole, a mother who can't abandon her daughter, begins to investigate on her own to discover what really happened that day.

[Pav S. (pav_sanborn_bookworm) · Rating 5 out of 5]

First things first - take a look at this cover! Doesn’t it make you want to dive right in?

Nicole receives a call at 4 a.m. about her daughter Lacey, who is found near a murdered man, critically injured and mute. Believing Lacey's silence stems from fear, not guilt, Nicole is determined to uncover the truth, despite the dangers of hidden secrets.

The story begins by unfolding through the perspectives of Lacey and Nicole, then shifts to Dylan's point of view in the second part. The author dives right into the action, so don’t get too cozy! You’ll have an engaging reading day ahead! Each chapter is packed with rich character development and numerous secrets intertwined in their lives. I particularly enjoyed Lacey’s determination to protect those around her. Meanwhile, Nicole faces the repercussions of her past, and Dylan showcases an insightful patience as he waits for his moment to shine. You’ll certainly encounter some characters you’ll warm up to, alongside a few who may not be as endearing, but don’t underestimate any of them!

This was my first read from this author, and wow! It was a thrilling rollercoaster ride filled with twists and turns. The clever plot and execution were truly impressive. I’m not used to this writing style, but I really enjoyed it. I originally thought the book could stand on its own with just the first part, but the second half added a layer of realism as the characters mature and confront their pasts. Dylan, in particular, grows up and sets out to uncover what happened to his mother and who was behind it all.

There’s so much intention behind Lacey's actions that you don’t see at first. But as you peel back the layers, more and more is revealed. I loved how the author teased us, making it feel like the case was closed when it really wasn't. Dylan had to dig deeper because, as we know, lies are like threads; pull one, and others unravel, leading to a web of deception. The truth is out there, but can you handle it?

This book is perfect for anyone who enjoys a dark, suspenseful read that’s hard to put down, especially with the short chapters that make it easy to binge. If you don’t mind going the extra mile to uncover the truth, especially when it comes to generational trauma and seeking justice for a parent, you’ll find a lot to appreciate here. Stay alert, as numerous subtle hints will become clear later on. This story left me speechless, and by the end, I had so many questions that were answered. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I need to have a chat with my best friend because she sure can’t have my man if something ever happens to me! Ha!

Thank you, Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op and NetGalley, for the DRC copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Monica Mil-Homens · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wasn’t expecting anything I found in this book. I’m still a little “dazed” and trying to process what I just read.

It’s an incredible book. The kind that makes you read nonstop, holding your breath, feeling every emotion the story allows and delivers through its plot.

Nicole receives a late-night phone call that changes her entire life. Her daughter, Lacey, has been found in the woods beside the body of her best friend’s husband. Lacey was severely injured, covered head to toe in blood, and Zach had been murdered with multiple stab wounds while still inside the car. No murder weapon was found.

From the moment they were discovered, Lacey became selectively mute. Trauma, they say… grief, fear?

Nicole had Lacey when she was still very young and always made sure her daughter would have everything within her reach. But now Lacey is in prison, and her children, Nicole’s grandchildren, have been left behind with an unstable, uncontrollable father. But I’ll talk about Brian later on.

Lacey is not a murderer. Nicole knows her daughter better than anyone else and, without thinking twice, begins investigating what really happened. But time is running out, and Lacey may end up being convicted of a crime she didn’t commit.

Let me start by saying that I DESPISED Brian with every fiber of my being. What a despicable, selfish, narcissistic man, a terrible father, terrible husband, terrible everything. So many times I wished the author would “kill him off” during the story. Lacey is on the verge of losing everything, including her life, and Brian is completely oblivious to it all, too busy feeling sorry for himself. Neglecting his children’s pain. Seeking comfort in his wife’s best friend! Speaking of her…

The unusual yet deeply united family dynamic in this story won me over right from the start. Lacey and her best friend are like sisters, and together they practically raised Lacey’s children. They are family. And the character I loved the most was the eldest son, Dylan. Dylan shares a deep bond with Nicole and, just like her, refuses to give up on proving his mother’s innocence no matter the cost.

The book is divided into two parts, with multiple points of view and different timelines, which makes perfect sense. It tackles themes such as extreme police and political corruption, violence against vulnerable people, mental health, and the fight against severe injustice. The final twists leave you breathless and with the feeling that everything is somehow right when at least someone gets justice. But there are secrets that kill, and here, beyond killing, they corrupt the very best parts of people.

This was my first time reading this author, even though I still haven’t read the ones already published in Portugal (and she is comingo to Lisbon Book Fair) and I couldn’t be happier or more grateful for the opportunity! Wishing her every success! Thank you Netgalley and author for this.
@bibliotecamil_insta

[VeroniCanRead · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐ ARC Review - The absolutely wild story of a gruesome murder, a silent victim, and how far one will go to protect their family.

🔪 For Fans of:
- murder mystery
- psychological thriller
- amateur sleuth
- family falling apart
- family secrets
- layered plot
- multiple POV
- multiple timelines

✏️ Spoiler-Free ARC Review
Lacey and her husband just needed a weekend away but next thing you know, she is found in the woods next to her best friend’s husband, who was stabbed 45 times. She is catatonic and hasn’t spoken since. Lacey’s mother, Nicole, is left to hold the family together and solve the murder that her daughter is being blamed for.

It’s been a while since I had a thriller come at me this strongly before. It’s a plot I haven’t heard of (with the grandma solving it), it’s got multiple pints of view (Lacey, her son and her mother), it kept getting more and more shocking in the second half without feeling unbelievable nor random, AND it’s honestly just very well written!

The book is emotional as we watch the young grandmother, Nicole, try to keep Lacey’s husband sober, try to keep Lacey’s eldest child Dylan from despair, and try to keep the rest of the children and household afloat. She visits her daughter every time she can, but it’s heartbreaking since Lacey is still mute, still staring off into the distance, so mentally wounded by whatever happened to her.

Meanwhile, there’s a killer on the loose and there’s so many questions. Why did they only kill him? Why was Lacey with her best friend’s husband? What is her best friend hiding? And the question we all want to know… what was Lacey’s role in it all?

BUT WAIT. That’s just part of the book because then we get to watch the family beyond the original crime.
How far will one go to protect their family? Who knows what really happened that day?

The pacing is quick, the family dynamic is heartbreaking, and the story is absolutely captivating.

I’ve already added more of Ashman’s books to my TBR!


🖤 Thank you to author S. T. Ashman and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for the digital advanced reader copy (ARC) via NetGalley.
As always, my reviews are honest, my own, and voluntary!

📚 Book: Her Silence by S. T. Ashman
📅 Release Date: July 21, 2026
⭐ Rating: 4.5 out of 5

[kayla Martinez · Rating 5 out of 5]

To what lengths will a mother go to protect her children before she dies? And how far will someone else go to make sure her plan succeeds?

This book easily earned 4.75 stars from me and had me completely hooked from start to finish!

S.T Ashman perfectly captures the fierce, unconditional love of a mother willing to do absolutely anything to protect her children. Think Goodbye Earl by The Chicks vibes 👀
This book had me laughing, crying, gasping, and yelling at the pages the entire time. The twists kept coming, and every time I thought I had the killer figured out, I was wrong all over again.

S.T. Ashman is a new-to-me author, but after this book, I’m officially hooked and already adding her other books to my TBR.

Her Silence by S.T. Ashman follows Nicole, Lacey’s mother, as she desperately fights to prove her daughter is not a cold-blooded killer after receiving a devastating 4 a.m. phone call. Lacey was found covered in blood in the woods, unable to speak, while Zach lay dead in a car near her. Zach, the wealthy husband of Lacey’s best friend Amanda, was arrogant and controlling, believing the world revolved around him. While he gave Amanda financial freedom, he denied her the one thing she wanted most: children.

Lacey’s husband Brian is a recovering alcoholic with a history of cheating. Though physically present, he fails to be the husband and father his family truly needs.
To make matters worse, Nicole’s nemesis is in charge of the investigation and seems determined to keep Lacey behind bars regardless of the evidence — or lack of it.

As the secrets unravel, the twists just keep coming. Brian’s loyalty to Lacey becomes questionable as he grows closer to Amanda again, especially considering their past affair. Nicole is brutally attacked in her own home, yet justice for Lacey still feels impossible.

I changed my mind countless times trying to figure out who the killer was. Even when I thought I had it figured out, I was only partially right. I love thrillers that keep you constantly guessing, and this one absolutely delivered. This is a must read for anyone seeking a thriller that keeps you on your toes until the very end.

[Jennifer Kristin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you so much to Net Galley, the publisher and S.T. Ashman for accepting my request for an ARC of Her Silence.

There are some thrillers out there where you kind of-sort of care about the characters and what is happening to them in the time you have with them in their story and then there are thrillers that build the characters and their relationships so well that you literally can't get them out of your head. The Alderwyn family will live in my brain for the unforeseeable future.

This book starts with a weekend getaway that goes wrong. Lacey Alderwyn is a 30-something year old wife and mom of three. She and her husband Brian have been together since they were teenagers when Lacey got pregnant and they decided to get married and create a life together. It is obvious from the beginning that Brian may be a little emotionally stunted which gives him a much lower threshold than Lacey when it comes to handling the day-to-day activities of having a family and being an adult. Because of this, Lacey tries to make life easier for Brian when possible - this includes things like the quick weekend getaway that they have planned with their old friend Amanda and her husband Zach.

What was supposed to be a relaxing time with no kids or responsibilities turns into a nightmare when Nicole, Lacey's mother, gets a call in the middle of the night from the police. Lacey has been found in the woods alongside the dead body of Zach, her friend's husband. Lacey has lost the ability to speak and does not appear to have any memory of what happened or who did it. It is now up to Nicole to try to help Lacey and figure out what really happened.

This book felt so layered with the relationships between characters and emotions that I found myself crying multiple times throughout the book. I didn't only care about who committed the murder but I also genuinely cared about all of the characters and what would happen next. I wanted to keep reading the book as I was so invested in the story but was so bummed that it was going to end. It is absolutely deserving of 5+ stars!

[Donna's Book Addiction Book review Arc Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book Review: Her Silence by S. T. Ashman
Publication Date: 21 July 2026
Rating: 4.5 ⭐️
Her Silence is a tense, emotionally charged thriller that grips from the very first page and refuses to let go. S. T. Ashman delivers a powerful story that blends psychological suspense with raw, deeply personal stakes.
The premise alone is compelling—a daughter found at the scene of a brutal murder, covered in blood and unable to speak—but it is the emotional depth that truly elevates this story. Nicole is a standout protagonist, driven by fierce maternal instinct and unwavering belief in her daughter. Her determination to uncover the truth, even as everything around her begins to fracture, gives the narrative a constant sense of urgency.
Lacey’s silence is one of the most effective elements of the book. It creates an unsettling tension that runs throughout, leaving both the characters and the reader questioning what really happened that night. The uncertainty builds layer by layer, turning each revelation into something more unsettling than the last.
The pacing is sharp and controlled, steadily tightening the pressure as secrets begin to surface. Ashman skillfully balances the investigative elements with emotional storytelling, ensuring the stakes feel both immediate and deeply personal. The exploration of fear, family loyalty, and the lengths a mother will go to protect her child adds a compelling psychological edge.
What makes Her Silence particularly memorable is its atmosphere—dark, unsettling, and filled with a constant sense that something isn’t quite right. As the truth begins to unravel, the story takes turns that challenge expectations and keep you fully invested until the final pages.
A gripping, thought-provoking thriller that combines emotional intensity with suspenseful storytelling. Perfect for readers who enjoy character-driven mysteries with a strong psychological core.

[Carrie Shields · Rating 4 out of 5]

𝑰 𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒃𝒂𝒓𝒆𝒍𝒚 𝒍𝒐𝒐𝒌 𝒂𝒕 𝒉𝒆𝒓. 𝑰𝒕 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒎𝒚 𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒕 𝒔𝒉𝒂𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒆𝒅 𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒐 𝒂 𝒎𝒊𝒍𝒍𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒑𝒊𝒆𝒄𝒆𝒔, 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒃𝒐𝒅𝒚 𝒇𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒑𝒊𝒆𝒄𝒆𝒔 𝒊𝒏𝒕𝒐 𝒂 𝒈𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒅𝒆𝒓 𝒔𝒐 𝒎𝒚 𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒕 𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒏𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒃𝒆 𝒑𝒖𝒕 𝒃𝒂𝒄𝒌 𝒕𝒐𝒈𝒆𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒂𝒈𝒂𝒊𝒏.

When Nicole gets a 4 a.m. phone call that her daughter Lacey has been found covered in blood beside a brutally murdered man, her entire world fractures. Lacey survived the night, but she has not spoken a single word since. Not to the police, not to her family, not even to her mother. Everyone else seems ready to decide she’s guilty, but Nicole refuses to believe her daughter is capable of something so horrific. As she begins digging into what really happened in those woods, it becomes clear that silence can hide far more than guilt.

What really elevated this story for me was the structure. The dual timelines and alternating points of view added so much depth and tension because every new chapter felt like another piece of a shattered mirror sliding into place. I loved how the past and present constantly played against each other, revealing just enough to keep me questioning everyone and everything. The shifting perspectives never felt gimmicky or confusing either. Instead, they gave the story an emotional weight that made the mystery feel far more personal. You could feel the desperation in Nicole’s determination to protect her daughter while also sensing that something much darker was lurking beneath the surface.

This ended up being one of those thrillers that hooked me emotionally just as much as it did psychologically. I especially appreciated how much heart was woven into the suspense. Beneath all the secrets and twists, this is really a story about motherhood, fear, and the terrifying realization that the people we love most can still carry entire worlds of pain we never fully see. Many thanks to the author for the review copy. Look for this one July 21, 2026.

[Becca (beccaspurrfectbooks) · Rating 5 out of 5]

First, thank you to NetGalley, Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op, and the author for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC.

I have read many thrillers, but none that have made me feel every single emotion possible. I literally sat for a several minutes after finishing just to try to process the entire story. This is by far the best book that I have read this year!

Her Silence is told through three POVs: Lacey - wife and mom of three, Nicole - Lacey's mom, and Dylan - Lacey's oldest child. The story begins with Lacey, her husband Brian, her best friend Amanda, and Amanda's husband, Zach planning a weekend trip away to Zach and Amanda's lake house. Nicole is staying at home with Lacey and Brian's children while they're away. Nicole receives a call early in the morning from the police that her daughter, Lacey, was found in the woods covered in blood and mute, lying next to Zach, who has been murdered.

Lacey, who is unable to speak, is suspected of murdering Zach and put in jail. Her mother, who knows Lacey didn't kill Zach, is now determined to find out the truth of what happened that night.

This story is so much more involved than any other thriller I've read. It dives into corruption within politics and the justice system. It highlights the bond between a mother and her child, and also portrays the strength and endurance of women in a male driven world.

It was captivating from the beginning. The plot twist at the end was well done. The writing and character development were top notch. S. T. Ashman has a way with imagery that makes you feel as if you are there with these characters. I laughed. I cried. I felt fear and grief. The chilling moments gave me goosebumps. This truly could be a movie adaptation, it was that good! I highly recommend this book!

[Kayleigh 2babesandabookshelf · Rating 4 out of 5]

🔪 BOOK/ REVIEW 🔪

I finished #hersecret by @booksbyashman in 2 days. And this was during a weekend where we had 3 lacrosse games over a 6 hour period when I couldn't pick up the book!!

This book was absolutely diabolical. I swear, my heart was racing a million miles a minute and my anxiety was through the roof. The plot, characters and pacing make this book feel unhinged and chaotic in the very best way possible. I had NO idea this book would have a part 2, but it was so deliciously written that I have to give a round of applause. And when the truth actually comes out, its wild!!

There is a Rollercoaster of emotions when reading this, which means is was really well done. The vigilante duo - Dylan and Nicole - will have you clapping non-stop. They were by far the best characters in this book.

If you're new to this author, I suggest grabbing her first book, #ikillkillers - another fantastic #thriller! This was a #gifted #arc, but make sure to add to your list when it publishs on 7/21/26!!

🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟

She survived the night. The truth didn't.

Nicole gets the call at 4 a.m. Her daughter Lacey was found in the woods beside her friend's dead husband. He was stabbed forty-four times. Lacey is barely alive. Covered in his blood. And completely mute.

She hasn't said a word since. Not to the police. Not to her husband. Not even to Nicole.

Nicole had Lacey at seventeen and swore her daughter would have a good life. Now Lacey is sitting in a cell, and Nicole's three grandchildren are left behind with a father who is losing it.

But Nicole knows her daughter. She isn't a cold-blooded murderer. Guilt didn't silence her. Fear did. Whatever happened in those woods scared Lacey more than prison.

So Nicole starts digging. But some secrets don't save people. They destroy them.

[Keyara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lacey loves her family. Her marriage may need work, but she's devoted to her husband too. She would do anything to make sure that they feel her love for the rest of their lives. So it catches the entire family off guard when they find themselves thrown at the mercy of the courts and the media with their mom as the lead suspect in a gruesome murder. No one believes that Lacey could be capable of doing such a heinous act, but no one can be 100% sure because Lacey has gone mute. Now the only remaining witness to the crime has no way to communicate and it's up to her family to figure out what really happened.

This was the perfect book to get me out of my reading slump. It moved quickly and kept my attention from the opening pages. One thing that I really loved about this thriller is that I thought I had it all figured out and quickly realized that I was just as clueless as the characters in the story. This book has multiple POVs, which allows for you to learn more about the situation and the characters than you would with just one narrator. Because of this writing style, at times the reader knows more than the current character they're reading from. This creates a very immersive experience because you feel like you are actively trying to figure out what's going on with the characters and those are my favorite types of thrillers.

I love a book that makes me feel something. Throughout this entire book there were moments of nervousness, anxiety and apprehension that only a well-created thriller can give. This book definitely belongs on Thriller lovers TBRs.

Thank you, S.T. Ashman and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-Op for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

[Taylor · Rating 4 out of 5]

Advanced Reader Copy received by NetGalley

I would give Her Silence 4 out of 5 stars!

The story follows Lacey, her distant husband Brian, who struggles with alcohol, Amanda, Lacey’s best friend and the godmother of her children, who also happens to be Brian’s high school ex, and Amanda’s wealthy but arrogant husband, Zach, as they head off on a couples’ weekend getaway. Back home, Lacey leaves her three children, 16-year-old Dylan, daughter Lila, and toddler Ethan, in the care of her mother, Nicole.

Not long into the trip, Nicole receives a devastating phone call from the police: Zach has been found brutally stabbed more than 40 times, and Lacey was discovered unconscious nearby, covered in blood. When the family arrives at the hospital, Lacey has regained consciousness but is mysteriously unable to speak about the horrifying events of that night.

From there, Nicole steps in to protect and support her daughter while also helping care for Lacey’s children as Brian spirals deeper into alcoholism. As the justice system begins to fail the family, Nicole takes matters into her own hands, determined to uncover the truth about what really happened.

This book does a great job highlighting the strength and determination of a mother’s love for her children. The ending completely caught me off guard, I was convinced the story was heading in a totally different direction the entire time.

The reason I rated it a 4 instead of a solid 5 stars is because the second part of the book felt a little slow in places and dragged at times. Even so, the twists, family dynamics, and suspense kept me invested, and I would definitely pick up another book by S. T. Ashman in the future.

[Skylar Ridgeway · Rating 5 out of 5]

I would rate this a 4.5, looking back.

Without getting spoilery, this book is about the tangled web of a family after a murder. Battling lies, cheating, secrets, false accusations, and most importantly: what is behind silence. How far will you go to protect your family? What silence would you vow?

There are quite a few things to say about this book. I want to start by saying that the twists were wonderful, and I really enjoyed how it ended— which isn't always true for books, especially thrillers/mysteries. But I felt that the conclusion was nice and sweet. I think the length of the book was great; and I feel the same about the chapter lengths. Shorter chapters in the beginning, getting longer toward the end, felt really fitting.

At only 18%, I noted on her ability to grab readers emotions. I wish she leaned more into it! Not everyone has such a talent.

I enjoyed the characters, albeit somewhat flat. I really enjoyed the Dylan POVs, but I do think that Ashman could have done a slightly better job speaking from a teenage/young man's POV. Nicole seemed to be the most comfortable POV for the author (I think Lacey's perspectives were also well done, just maybe not as much as Nicole's), def 5 stars in regard to that. Amanda's character I also really enjoyed. The female perspectives were on point.

There are a few phrasings and such that I would have done differently, but I really don't have any harsh criticisms for this read.

Aside from a few things snagging me, like Dylan's early POVs, I really enjoyed this one. It was not overly predictable (like some thrillers), and if you assume you can predict it, there was always a fun surprise waiting around the corner.