Not a Sound

by Heather Gudenkauf

A shocking discovery and chilling secrets converge in this latest novel from New York Times bestselling author Heather Gudenkauf

When a tragic accident leaves nurse Amelia Winn deaf, she spirals into a depression that ultimately causes her to lose everything that matters--her job, her husband, David, and her stepdaughter, Nora. Now, two years later and with the help of her hearing dog, Stitch, she is finally getting back on her feet. But when she discovers the body of a fellow nurse in the dense bush by the river, deep in the woods near her cabin, she is plunged into a disturbing mystery that could shatter the carefully reconstructed pieces of her life all over again.

As clues begin to surface, Amelia finds herself swept into an investigation that hits all too close to home. But how much is she willing to risk in order to uncover the truth and bring a killer to justice?

New York Times bestselling author Heather Gudenkauf has been described as "masterful" and "intelligent" and compared to Lisa Scottoline and Jodi Picoult. Introducing her most compelling heroine yet, she delivers a taut and emotional thriller that proves she's at the top of her class.

Genres: Mystery, Thriller, Fiction, Mystery Thriller, Suspense, Audiobook, Book Club

296 pages, Hardcover

First published May 30, 2017

About the author

Heather Gudenkauf is the Edgar Award nominated, New York Times & USA Today bestselling author of ten novels, including The Overnight Guest and her most recent thriller Everyone is Watching. Her debut novel, The Weight of Silence, was an instant NYT bestseller and remained on the list for 22 weeks. Gudenkauf’s critically acclaimed novels have been published in over 25 countries and have sold over 2.5 million copies worldwide. Her books have been featured on many Best Of roundups including lists by The New York Times, The Washington Post, NPR, Amazon, Apple Books, GoodReads, and more. Her eleventh novel, The Perfect Hosts will be released on November 4, 2025. Heather lives in Iowa with her family.

Reviews

[Chelsea Humphrey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Yay! My first thriller featuring a deaf female! I have developed a craving for more diverse characters in my mystery/thrillers and this one was pure gold. While the plot itself was fairly unique, I also found myself drawn to the careful details included surrounding the hearing impaired, and the medical field in general. I learned from the author’s note that she herself is hearing impaired, something I wasn’t aware of before, and it brought Amelia’s character to life more so than it could have from the voice of a writer who had never experienced such a thing. I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect from this novel as it seemed from the description to be a bit different that her previous books; it was certainly different and I applaud Heather for taking the risk as it was well worth the pay off.

If you’ve read any of Heather Gudenkauf’s previous novels then you know she has a knack for what I like to call “emotional suspense”. Her books manage to contain dark subject matter while maintaining an ethereal quality which makes them easily devoured in a single sitting. This is technically a whodunnit, but that isn’t the element that shines brightest in this story. The plot is fairly straight forward, and you may be able to guess who and what is behind the sinister murder of Gwen due to a small cast of characters, but I found I didn’t have it pieced together as well as expected. What caused my attention to be completely focused on this novel after failing to be grabbed by my two previous reads was Amelia’s character and the detail that went into bringing her to life. I learned so much about what a deaf person might experience, especially one who was having to adjust to being impaired instead of having been born that way. From the various tools available, to the coping mechanisms, to the medical details included from her work at the oncology clinic, these are the things that set Amelia apart from just a “girl” in just another psychological thriller. Is it safe now? Can we stop putting the word girl in every title?

This was a fast paced read, and while I found some portions to be slightly repetitive of what Amelia was thinking or experiencing at the moment, I felt the writing in this book was the strongest Gudenkauf has produced and was floored. The suspense was gripping, the characters were dramatic but grounded, and the ending wasn’t cookie cutter perfect. I love it when all my questions are answered without having the dreamy, fairy tale ending. Gag me with a spoon. In short, if you are looking for a psychological thriller to invest in this summer, I highly recommend Not a Sound. The characters are unique, the story was captivating, and the pacing was consistently quick and witty; this is the perfect story for the reader who wants a worthy distraction from everyday life.

*Many thanks to the publisher for providing my copy; it was a pleasure to provide my honest thoughts on the blog.

[Melissa · Rating 3 out of 5]

*3.25 stars*

If ever there was a jaw-dropping opening . . . this is it. Heather Gudenkauf lays the groundwork for her promising mystery and compelling cast of characters with a startling hit-and-run.

Told entirely through the eyes of Amelia, a former nurse, who lost her hearing after being rundown in a parking lot, this story offers up a unique lead. She’s strong, resilient and out to prove she can get her life back on track. It was booze Amelia initially turned to after the accident, her little family just one of the casualties of her binges, but she’s done with all that. Two years post-accident and now deaf, she’s living on her own and hell bent on showing her estranged husband, she’s worthy of time with her step-daughter.

The author paints a vivid picture of the setting—the remote area around Fiver Mines River—that provides the much needed solace Amelia seeks. Until the morning her curious companion stumbles across a body floating along the shore, that is. Amelia gets herself caught up in some dicey situations, nosing around the investigation, inserting herself were she shouldn't, but she needs answers. Is her friend’s murder somehow connected to her unsolved hit-and-run case?

As Amelia’s ears and extra set of eyes, Stitch, the silver-haired service dog, adds a quirky dynamic to the story. Who am I kidding, Stitch stole the spotlight. A little trouble with a side of playful, I might even say he was my favorite part of this entire book. Who wouldn’t want a Stitch in their life?

The author writes in great detail, which surprisingly doesn’t drag the story down, but enhances the experience instead. I thought it lent more credibility to Amelia's character and honed in on the fact that someone who’s hearing-impaired would rely more heavily on their other senses, like sight.

The mystery itself is interesting, although not one I would consider complex or puzzling. Around the halfway mark, the story lost some of the momentum that made the first half such a page-turner for me and veered off on a predictable path. The truth was too easy to decipher among the murky shadows of the river. There were also quite a few things about the plot itself and the relationships that just didn't add up for me. Keep in mind, this is coming from someone who indulges in mystery/suspense/thrillers on a regular basis.

I would say, if you're in the mood for a light thriller that doesn't take a lot of guesswork, this is the book for you.

*Thank you to Harlequin/Park Row Books and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Jennifer Masterson · Rating 4 out of 5]

*Audio Version Review*

4 Very Enjoyable Mystery Stars for "Not a Sound" by Heather Gudenkauf! I was initially going down a 3 1/2 Star path with this book because I thought I had the ending figured out, but my detective skills failed me, so I'm giving it the full 4!

Not only did I like the main character, Amelia, but I also enjoyed the story and felt it was well written. The narrator, Julia Whelan, actually enhanced this book's experience. She's my favorite narrator and she's awesome!

Amelia is a nurse that loses her hearing from a terrible accident. She then is no longer a nurse and her world is shattered! She turns to the bottle, loses her husband and step daughter, then she goes to live in her family's cabin with her only companion, Stitch, her service dog.

It's two years later. She's sober but unemployed. One day Amelia comes upon a dead body while kayaking with Stitch. It turns out the body is of a fellow nurse and friend and then the book takes off. The novel does some twisting and turning and Amelia's life does, too!

This book is very straightforward, well written and pleasant to follow. I highly recommend it to someone looking for a light Summer mystery.

Also, if you are looking to try audio this would make the perfect first listen!

Recommended!

[Norma ~ The Sisters · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars rounded up to 4 stars as I loved Amelia and Stitch! I am a huge fan of this author and was extremely excited and considered myself lucky to receive an advanced copy of this book!

NOT A SOUND by HEATHER GUDENKAUF is an interesting, moving, emotional, and lightly suspenseful mystery/thriller that hooked me in right from the get go with that ever surprising and unexpected first chapter. I love it when a book grabs my attention like that right away.

HEATHER GUDENKAUF delivers a well-written, fast-paced, captivating, and vivid read here told through the eyes of our main character Amelia and the ears of her loyal service dog Stitch. I was totally immersed in Amelia’s character even though she was imperfect at times she was such a powerful, unique, and strong female character with endearing and likeable traits.

I really enjoyed the relationship between Amelia & her service dog, Stitch! I hope that we get to visit these characters again in future books!

This wasn't necessarily a gripping page-turner and was somewhat predictable but what I loved and enjoyed were the characters, the setting, the words written and the satisfying ending. Sometimes that is all I need to make it an enjoyable read for me. Would recommend!

Publication date: May 30, 2017

Thank you so much to NetGalley, Heather Gudenkauf, and Harlequin / Park Row Books for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book for a fair and honest review.

All of Brenda & my reviews can be found on our Sister Blog:
http://www.twogirlslostinacouleereadi...

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

There's plenty of bark in this one......

Just ask Stitch, Amelia Winn's service dog, who unleashes quite the snappy-collared, digging for bone, storyline here.

Amelia has lost her hearing due to a severe head injury. As a specially trained ER/Trauma nurse, Amelia was guiding a patient back to her car when they were both mowed down by an unknown driver who purposefully hit them in the parking lot. The driver was never caught.

As time moved on, Amelia did not. The weight of depression began to sink Amelia into a non-stop spiral. She reached for alcohol to numb an unreachable pain. With hand on bottle and stamina nowhere to be found, Amelia is shown the door by her husband, David, who is head of obstetrics and gynecology at the local hospital. Her marital eviction also means that she will no longer have access to her sweet six year old step-daughter.

Reality gives Amelia a kick in the pants and a jolt of get-your-act-together shock. She finds herself with limited funds, no job, and an eye opening view of her present digs of an old A-frame fishing cabin of her father's.

But life sometimes regenerates itself. Amelia now looks into the deep-set eyes of Stitch who knows her every move and sticks to her like a shadow in the moonlight. Stitch steals the show throughout this storyline. It is Stitch who suffered at the hands of an inhuman human in his former life. A bond is forming between these two when life delivers a disconnect.

And then, dog and owner come upon the lifeless body of a woman found nearly submerged along the river. Shock drives Amelia to try and get help out here in the wilderness. She knows this woman. Heather Gudenkauf, who has hearing loss herself, creates scene after scene describing the challenges that Amelia faces in a world without sound.

Gudenkauf presents her story embedded in the sobering fact that Amelia may no longer be safe in her outdoor environment. She begins a new part-time job at the Regional Cancer Center scanning files with no patient interaction. But Amelia is determined to find out what happened to her friend. Her Nancy Drew instincts will put her in unspeakable danger.

This was a very creative approach by the author to feature our heroine living with the challenges of being deaf in a harrowing life situation. Although a bit predictable, the emphasis was more character driven in its essence. Would love to see a follow-up on Amelia and her sidekick Stitch.

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not a Sound by Heather Gudenkauf is a 2017 Park Row Books publication.

This novel delves deeper than the taut, suspenseful elements, touching upon some timely issues, while creating a sympathetic character, in Amelia Winn, that is at once vulnerable, but whose resilience is inspiring.

Amelia Winn is an RN, happily married, with a step daughter she adores, when her life changes on a dime. She is left profoundly deaf after a horrific car crash. Her equilibrium is knocked out of whack in more ways than one, and she turns to alcohol to cope, which causes her marriage to end.

Now, she is slowly fighting her way back, looking for work, and trying to be a mom to her beloved step daughter, with the help of her good friend, Jake, and ‘Stitch’, her therapy dog. Yet, just before a promising job interview, Amelia discovers the body of a woman she was once friends with, and her life once more spirals into dangerous territory.

The story got off to a deceptively slow start, but the isolated atmosphere was perfect for eliciting a few spine tingles, setting the stage for some tense, nerve wracking suspense.

It is hard enough to find oneself in imminent danger, but it’s doubly hard when you are handicapped in some way. Amelia’s deafness puts her in a perilous situation, when she begins to dig into the circumstances of her friend’s death, and someone isn’t pleased about it.

While this approach has shown up in books, television, and movies, it never fails to make me nervous, making my palms sweat. The final showdown nearly gave me a heart attack, but on a more serious note, the author delved into some uncomfortable topics, such as cancer, and the dangerous temptations, some healthcare providers may entertain, which should send even more chills down your spine.

The downside is a certain amount of predictability since I think seasoned readers will have the ‘who’ part figured out, although that really doesn’t have much of an effect on the suspense levels, in my opinion. However, there were some implausible moments, here and there, and the wrap up was too brisk, with some issues hurriedly glossed over.

On the plus side, Stitch is a real hero, and I love it when a book showcases the work these specially trained dogs do for humans.

Overall, this is a very suspenseful, thought provoking psychological thriller.

4 stars

[Brenda ~The Sisters~Book Witch · Rating 4 out of 5]

Full review is done! Yah me!

Heather Gudenkauf has created memorable characters here in Amelia and her service dog Stitch. I loved what their relationship brought to the story and that is what made this story an enjoyable read for me. It was very refreshing to read a story with a person/dog connection. Stitch by far was the best character in this story and I loved his attitude “I will listen when I need to” and that reminded me of my dog.

Amelia is not your typical thriller heroine. She is the woman in trouble character that brings on the some trouble herself and I will admit had me a bit frustrated at times. I did find that her decisions and prying added some tension to the story and had me yelling to her in my head “why would you do that” and “what are you thinking”. It added some fun for me.

I did think the ending was pushing it and I was not completely satisfied with it. Some will find this one predictable with not much guesswork but for me, sometimes I just don't want to think to much but just read. I recommend for others looking for a light fun thriller, that doesn't require much guesswork.

All of Norma’s & my reviews can be found on our Sister Blog:
http://www.twogirlslostinacouleereadi...

[Bentley ★ Bookbastion.net · Rating 4 out of 5]

See this review and more like it on www.bookbastion.net
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The second I came across this book on Netgalley, I knew I had to get my hands on it.

My father was born Deaf, and my entire family uses American Sign Language (ASL) to communicate with him and his friends. I was really interested in checking this book out as much for the plot as I was to see how the main character's deafness was conveyed.

I was pleasantly surprised by the level of respect that was paid to Amelia's hearing impairment. It helps that Heather Gudenkauf herself is profoundly deaf, and clearly uses Amelia as a conduit by which to relate her own personal experience and expertise on the subject. Gudenkauf avoids the emotional trauma trope that so often accompanies deafness by having the reader meet Amelia two years after her accident. By the time we join Amelia, her life is getting back on track and her deafness has become another facet of her character, and not a disability that holds her back.


The mystery that Amelia becomes entangled in is fast-paced and engaging, although I do wish that certain aspects hadn't connected so personally to her at the end. I thought it was enough that she was dragged into events at the start of the story without her control and would have enjoyed if that theme continued instead of the novice detective novel that it sort of becomes in the middle. I thought that a little too much leeway might have been taking in keeping Amelia apprised of certain information that she legally would not have been privy to.

The suspense here is slow burning for a lot of the story as Amelia works out the truth of the situation she's become entangled in, but don't let that turn you off to it. By the final act of the story, it's a roaring fire of suspense that couldn't put down. In a lot of ways, I was reminded of the movie "Hush" that came out in 2016, which featured a deaf protagonist placed in a similar dangerous situation.


Gudenkauf's writing style is so engaging and immersive, and Amelia is such a strong character that I ended up enjoying this novel immensely. There's a lot to admire here, and I really enjoyed how hearing impairment was portrayed here in a respectful way that was also very educational to readers. I'm definitely going to keep my eye out for future offerings from this author!

★★★★✩ = 4/5 stars!

Thanks Netgalley and Harlequin (US & Canada) for an ARC of this!

[Kaceey · Rating 4 out of 5]

A nurse is always a nurse, but should their qualifications extend to playing the role of detective?🤷🏻‍♀️

Amelia was a dedicated nurse who was run down in the parking garage outside her hospital. The most significant lasting effect was she was left hearing impaired. Her life as a nurse, and sadly her home life was now on hold. And just to top off a perfectly rotten chain of events, her husband with her stepdaughter in tow also walked away.

Amelia would need to put her life back together by herself. And her only help came from her loyal hearing assistance dog, Stitch.

After Amelia stumbles across one of her former coworkers murdered she realizes her life might once again be in jeopardy.

I’ve always enjoyed Heather Gudenkauf’s books and this was no exception. But I do get just a bit frustrated with storylines where average Joe citizen (in this case Amelia - former nurse) solves the case that the professional detectives can’t seem to well…detect!💁🏻‍♀️

But overall this was a very engaging audio. As always Julia Whelan did an outstanding job!

Thank you to my local library for my 🎧

[Diane S ☔ · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Amelia had a job she loved as a nurse, a husband and stepdaughter she adores, but a tragic accident would leave her deaf and depressed. Her own actions while trying to come fingers with her new circumstances would cost her the job, her husband and the easy relationship with her daughter. Now basically alone, her only companion her service dog Stitch, she is trying foreclosing some parts of her life. Paddling on the river is her solace, that is until she finds the body of a fellow nurse, a friend from the past that she had lost contact with during her difficult years.

A case that strikes at the heart of many, corruption, greed and power, Amelia has trouble letting this go and investigates on her own. Although I felt much of this story was transparent, could easily follow the clues and figure out where it was going, the writing is solid and the characters wonderful. A solid 3.5 for me but rated up instead of down because of Amelia and Stitch. The author herself is hearing impaired and this gave a realism to the character of Amelia. The ways she manages in her life now and her hard won strength felt authentic. Stitch, such a brave Little dog, fiercely protective and loved that his commands where taught in Czech, so that is the language to which he responds. Good story, stronger characters.

ARC from Netgalley.

[Liz · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first book by Heather Gudenkauf. It grabbed me from the prologue. Amelia is a rape crisis nurse until a hit and run accident leaves her deaf. This causes her to spiral into alcoholism, leading to the loss of her husband, stepdaughter and job. Two years later, she’s sobered up, learned sign language and gotten a hearing dog named Stitch. Out paddle boarding, she finds a dead body. And not just a body, but the body of a fellow nurse.

I really bonded by Amelia. Gudenkauf does a fabulous job of making you feel Amelia’s soundless world. In the author’s note, she states that she is also hearing impaired, so this was close to home for her. It was also a nice change of pace to have the main character be an outsider. She’s not a policeman or a detective. She just happened to stumble across the body. That also makes it believable when she makes some stupid choices along the way.

It’s a fast paced book and I really didn’t have a clue who was behind the murder. Or if it was somehow linked to her accident. If not for an over the top, unbelievable ending, this would have been a five, not four star book.

I listened to this (which made for a weird feeling listening to a book about a deaf person) and the narrator, Julia Whelan, did a good job.

[Sunflowerbooklover · Rating 3 out of 5]

My first read by Heather Gudenkauf :). Not a Sound is a light mystery that grabs you from the bang of the first chapter!

I definitely enjoyed reading the novel from Amelia our main character's POV and her partner in crime Stitch (service dog). Can I just say how much I LOVED Stitch!!! Made me want to go out and get a furry little friend just like Stitch :). I was really engaged in Amelia's character and felt that she was easy to connect to... strong, powerful, and independent.

I do have to say... the premise of the storyline was interesting but it fell flat for me. I felt it was predictable and I wasn't that impressed. If, I didn't love Stitch so much and Amelia's character I would have given this a 2 star.

Overall, it was an interesting read and if you're in the mood for a light thriller/suspense then this is the book for you!! :)

[Judy Collins · Rating 5 out of 5]

The 30 Best Books of 2017

I am utterly speechless! A 5 Star ++++. Brilliantly crafted. LOVED. Just finished this incredible and compelling book. It may take some time to get my heart rate back to normal. My nails will never be the same. "Movie-Worthy" (please).

Heather Gudenkauf returns following Missing Pieces landing on my Top 50 Books of 2016 with her "Best Yet," NOT A SOUND. Hands down, this is the "best book I have read in 2017!" I have no doubt by year end, it will still be the best of the year.

As the book opens we meet ER nurse Amelia Winn, specialized in domestic abuse. She has a patient, Stacey and she is leaving. Amelia walks with her to the car, and another vehicle is barreling at them, full speed ahead, which ends in tragedy. An unsolved hit-and-run. (hopefully another book here)

Flash forward two years later, Amelia has found herself deaf, jobless, and now separated from her doctor husband, David, her home and her seven-year-old stepdaughter, Nora.

Life has not been easy. She is not able to continue her career as a nurse, and suffers from alcoholism, since the accident.

She has moved to a cabin in the woods and spends her time on the river, paddle boarding, kayaking, hiking, and running with her service dog, Stitch. She is trying to rebuild her life.

Amelia delivers all her commands in Czech to Stitch. His former trainer Vilem was initially from Prague and trained all of his police and rescue dogs using Czech authorities, including Stitch and Jake’s K-9.

Jake a childhood friend (her brother Andrew's best friend), now Detective and her best friend. He too has experienced tragedy in his life with his wife’s suicide four years earlier off the Five Mines Bridge. He has helped pull her out of the gutter.

Just when Amelia thinks she is getting her life back on track with a job interview at the hospital (a file clerk), not what she was trained to do, but a step back in the direction, she stumbles upon a dead body in the river that same morning. The body turns out to be a fellow nurse, Gwen.

There are only three ways to get to this remote Five Mines River location: by boat, by four-wheeler, or by foot. She cannot believe Gwen Locke is dead and she cannot help but think of her accident two years ago, which she is not convinced was an accident, after all. They met being sexual assault nurse examiners. Could it be a rapist or an abusive boyfriend for husband looking for revenge?

What if Gwen’s murder and her attempted murder are connected? She and Gwen both treated patients who were abused by very bad people. Would it be a stretch to think they would come after the nurses who were trying to gather forensic evidence to put them in jail for a very long time? Now she is a witness.

Turns out Amelia had pushed everyone away during the two years after the accident while she spiraled down with the devil (alcohol). In looking at some old emails, Gwen had tried to reach out to her. They had been good friends once before she got hit by a car. Before she lost her hearing; abandoning her family and friends for alcohol. They had daughters about the same age.

Presently, Amelia has not had a drink in eighteen months and determined more than ever to get her life back to spend time with Nora.

Amelia is one tough cookie (love her) . . . And she soon suspects there is more than meets the eye with the murder. Crazy things begin happening. There are tons of suspects. However, she keeps her suspicions to herself, after Jake tells her to let them handle the case.

She becomes obsessed with finding the killer and begins her investigation (she is some detective –no slouch here). Her dog Stitch was a gift from her friend Jake, and he is always at her side as her loyal companion. Being deaf sets her back, working with her handicap--especially with a killer on the loose and she may be next.

Without her hearing, she has to rely on her vision to gauge the world around her.

Pretty soon, she begins suspecting things are not as they appear at work, plus she finds herself doing all sorts of illegal things to gather information. She is determined whoever murdered Gwen, is out to get her next. She will not look the other way.

She has two choices when she gets the urge to drink. The devil is calling her in the back of the cabinet (booze), or she can do what she does to make the urge pass. Go for a run. However, when it is dark, remote, and a killer on the loose, the two choices are not so great. She chooses the darkness and lurking danger outside, over the bottle.

It the meantime, the only person near her is her closest neighbor, Evan who owns the Five Mines Outfitters. She now is dealing with Peter, someone from Gwen's past. An obsessive-compulsive quasi-stalker (used bookstore owner) who lives in his parent’s house and spends his free time in a garage, pasting news articles about his murdered ex-girlfriend into a scrapbook.

She cannot seem to wrap her head around all that has happened. Gwen’s death, her mysterious email, missing records at the hospital, David’s newfound interest in her, not to mention Jake’s; the break-in at her house, the condition of David’s boat, Peter’s strange behavior and his cryptic statement making her suspect her ex-husband.

None of this adds up, and she must do more digging. Is she missing something? Something very wrong is going on. Could her doctor ex-husband be involved in a murder? Complex.

Plus, someone is trying to discredit her by breaking into her house (using her past alcoholism), and setting her up. Someone is trying to cover their tracks, and she may be next on their list. The closer she gets to discovering the truth, she and Stitch find themselves in a complex and dangerous web of deceit.

An avid fan of the talented author; have read all her books and enjoyed them immensely; however, this one is particularly powerful, compelling, explosive, intense, and emotional. As the author mentions, her most personal; referencing "Amelia is one of her most complicated endearing characters to-date."

If you can only read one (moving and emotional) crime thriller this year— this would be the ONE. There is so much here on different levels.

Readers, you will fall in love with Amelia and Stitch (side kick service dog). The most courageous (and intelligent), strong-willed, and witty duo I have ever met between the pages. The duo tackles a powerful sociopath on their own. A whodunit on steroids.

Well-written, to give you an idea: A mix of Jodi Picoult, Diane Chamberlain, Amy Hatvany, Lisa Scottoline, Lisa Unger, Lisa Gardner (another 2017 favorite) Jennifer Jaynes, and Michael and Daniel Palmer (medical thrillers), and of course the icing on the cake: Heather Gudenkauf's own signature trademark style. Top-Shelf.

Intricately plotted, fast-paced, memorable characters with realistic inner struggles; highly-charged subject matter, more twists than you can imagine. The gripping, taut suspense kept my heart beating non-stop (the scene by the riverbank in the snow) full-blown, Tachycardia. What I call an "emotional thriller." I would not change one word.

As I mentioned in my comments while reading, I give first prize to Heather, for the "most catching" hook me, at first chapter ever. Jaw-dropping. It does not stop there. The same breakneck speed intensity continues to the explosive heart-pounding finale.

I can see why NOT A SOUND has received rave advance editorial praise. Believe every word. Impeccable research, from cancer, the medical profession, health care, whistleblowing, terminal illness, alcoholism, addiction, step-parenting, marriage, murder, domestic abuse, victims of violent crime, hearing impaired, service dogs, to so much more.

The setting, weather, and nature add to the mystery and intrigue. Reminded me of my days living in Big Canoe (North Georgia mountains) in my log cabin in the woods overlooking a lake; heavenly.

Also, a medical thriller fan as well, and cancer is a topic close to my heart. An ideal choice for book clubs and further discussions. A cautionary tale, (more realistic than we know), without saying too much - a timely subject.

Gudenkauf is at the "Top" of her game!

I for one, hope we see more of Amelia and Stitch in future books. They are too good to end. If you have not read this author, what are you waiting for? A book to re-read and also purchased the audiobook (narrated by Julia Whelan). Awesome!

Publishers Weekly
Kirkus Reviews
Heather Gudenkauf and Lisa Unger in Conversation

A very "special thank you" to Park Row Books and NetGalley for an early reading copy.

JDCMustReadBooks

[Selene · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.75 stars

I liked certain aspects of this story: a flawed heroine with a disability, an intriguing puzzle to solve, interesting tidbits about the operation of hearing-impaired devices, and a cute but versatile dog thrown into the mix. Beyond that, this story was just okay. It wasn't very thrilling or exciting and the narrator was slightly irritating because she jumped to conclusions about everything and assumed that everything was about her. Overall, the characters didn't hold my interest as strongly as anticipated.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

A contemporary thriller featuring a deaf protagonist. I can't say I've read anything like this before. I can't speak on how the hearing impaired character is portrayed based on personal experience, although the author is herself and clearly put some of her own personal understanding into the character making her feel very real and believable.

Nurse Amelia Quinn is involved in a hit and run in a parking lot while walking a patient to her car. The accident leaves Amelia deaf. In an attempt to deal with the trauma, she turns to alcohol. The story picks up two years later where alcohol has helped to destroy her marriage and career. She struggles to get time with her stepdaughter Nora. Amelia is living in her family's cabin by the river with her service dog Stitch.

With a job interview scheduled that day, of course Amelia stumbles upon a body while out paddle boarding with Stitch. The actual worse part is she knew this woman. It's an old friend and fellow nurse. As Amelia gets pulled into the investigation as a witness, it becomes difficult to let it go and not go digging herself. Especially when she thinks she sees a connection to her own unsolved hit and run.

There is a lot to be found in Not a Sound. The story is emotional, moving, compelling, and intense. The detail that goes into Amelia is so brilliant. I felt like I learned a lot from reading the experience from Amelia's perspective. It becomes clear a lot of the things we take advantage of in the hearing community. Amelia had the sudden change of becoming deaf making her suffer through a kind of loneliness I cannot imagine. It is interesting to learn about the adjustments she had to make in her life and what the most extreme differences were between now and two years before. There was a lot I reflected on as little things became a lot more difficult: needing to be faced when spoken to for lip-reading, being unable to answer questions when calling 911, the unbearable silence when trying to fall asleep, not knowing when someone is approaching. And truly so much more. Amelia is written so sympathetically.

And Stitch is such a bonus. I wouldn't be averse to seeing Amelia and Stitch again. All in all, this is a great thriller with a protagonist that offers a unique perspective.

[Erin Clemence · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amelia Winn is an emergency room nurse, trained in working with victims of sexual assault. One day while walking a victim to her car, she is struck by another vehicle and loses her hearing. After spiraling into a depression that ends up with her losing her family and her job, Amelia is finally trying to regain the trust of her husband and stepdaughter. While kayaking one day with her service dog Stitch, Amelia comes across the body of a former nurse, Gwen, and suddenly Amelia focuses on finding the killer of her friend. Soon though, everyone Amelia knows becomes suspect and Amelia herself is at risk.
Heather Gudenkauf has always been one of my favourite authors. Her novels never disappoint, and she is always able to tell a story with strong, passionate characters that are easily relatable. Amelia was no different. I instantly felt a connection to her and rooted for her throughout the entire novel. A quick read, this novel pulled me in from the start. The easy language and creative style made for smooth, even storytelling and although the ending was predictable ( although that could just be because I am such an avid reader of this genre, I was able to predict the murderer right from the start ) it was still riveting and gripping, providing a satisfying conclusion for readers.
This is a novel that will pull you in from the beginning, does not have any airs about it, and will easily captivate you. The characters are all well developed and honest, ( even the service dog, Stitch, who is one of my favourite characters hands down! ) and this is a story you will not want to stop reading. I easily finished this novel in two days, and was eager for more. This novel will introduce you (or re-introduce you) to the challenges and experiences of the Deaf community and culture, humbling a reader without being patronizing or judgmental. Her personal experiences shine through, increasing my level of respect for her as a writer who is willing to share so much with her readers. Hands-down this novel is highly recommended, and I eagerly await Ms. Gudenkauf’s next work.

[Amanda - Mrs B's Book Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

*https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
I selected Heather Gudenkauf’s latest based on an article I read that was featured in the highly regarded Washington Post stating this novel was ‘a thriller worth staying up all night to finish’. Going on this strong recommendation and my enjoyment of Gudenkauf’s 2016 release, Missing Pieces, I was all set to be thoroughly entertained by Not A Sound.

Not A Sound deviates somewhat from a traditional thriller. The heroine is a hearing impaired, former nurse, named Amelia Winn. Amelia is joined by her hero, a four legged and rather prickly service dog, named Stitch. Together, this twosome inadvertently enter in a full blown murder investigation. The book first takes a step back in time, as we learn the circumstances that lead to Amelia’s accident and her subsequent hearing loss. Amelia was once a highly dedicated nurse, based in a sexual assault unit. One evening, she selflessly decides to walk a patient back to her car after a long shift and tragically both are struck by a hit and run driver. The patient sadly dies and Amelia is left with life changing injuries. Two years later, the hit and run driver has never been found and Amelia is slowly coming back to life. We learn life in the last two years has been tough on Amelia, she spiralled into a dark depression, she lost her career, marriage and stepdaughter. Life begins to look up when she is approached to work as a clerical assistant, transferring patient records from paper to digital form, by a friend of her estranged husband. However, on the morning of the interview, in attempt to clear her mind, Amelia goes paddleboarding in the waters that surround her remote cabin home. In the shallows, Amelia stumbles across a dead body. Amelia is shocked by her discovery and is floored even further when she recognises the deceased as Gwen, a former nurse, colleague and good friend to Amelia. Despite authorities taking on the investigation into Gwen’s death, Amelia finds she cannot help but do her own digging into the case. However, the more Amelia probes into the case, the more dangerous life becomes for a woman who has only just got her life back on track again.

If you are looking for a fast paced and riveting thriller, that leaves you guessing until virtually the close of the novel, then I would suggest you put Heather Gudenkauf’s newest book on your reading list – quick smart! I had fairly high expectations going into this novel, which was mainly due to my enjoyment of Gudenkauf’s previous novel and the acclaim this novel has received from the media. I am pleased to report that I was very taken by this gripping thriller.

Part of my appreciation of this novel comes from the insertion of a hearing impaired main protagonist, who later becomes the lead investigator in the case of her murdered friend. I thought Gudenkauf handled this character with both a balance of respect and insight. Through Amelia Winn, we learn what it is like to have one of your primary senses ripped away from you unexpectedly. Gudenkauf makes mention of the difficult period the main character Amelia goes through, in the aftermath of the accident, which is around a period of two years. Gudenkauf details Amelia’s depression, battle with the booze, her self imposed exile from life and the losses Amelia had to endure. Gudenkauf, hearing impaired herself, uses this story to highlight the services available to the hearing impaired. Some of these essential services include lip reading courses, service dogs and speech pathology classes. Having worked with the hearing impaired in my profession, I wasn’t aware of many of these forms of assistance and reading Not A Sound served to enhance my understanding of the challenges faced by the hearing impaired.

Along with Amelia and the loveable scruff ball Stitch, Amelia’s service dog, there are not a huge amount of characters that fill the pages of this novel. The small character list ensures that the characterisation in this novel is sound. It also meant that my suspect list was shortened. I found that I was initially wrong with who I suspected in committing Gwen’s Murder, but my second guess was correct. Gudenkauf doesn’t make you work too hard in putting the pieces of this puzzle together. Entertainment value wise, Not A Sound is one of those novels that keeps you theorising until the close of the novel. I do have to say that I was a little displeased to discover one of the main mystery threads of the novel was not closed.

I encourage you to select this intense mystery/ suspense filled novel if you like the challenge of reading a book that will make you want to stay up until you finish it, even if it’s close to the sun rising – it did just that for me, thanks Ms Gudenkauf!

*Please note that a free copy of this book was provided to me for review purposes through Beauty and Lace/Harlequin Books Australia.

[Kelly (and the Book Boar) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Find all of my reviews at: http://52bookminimum.blogspot.com/

3.5 Stars

If you don’t mind a mystery where the leading lady does this at every opportunity . . . .



This might work out just fine for you.

Amelia’s life changed when a severe head trauma left her without hearing. Caught in a downward spiral of alcohol, Amelia lost her job, her husband and her stepdaughter. Now she’s trying to get her life back on track. With the help of her therapy dog, Stitch, a new job and a new addiction to kayaking rather than the bottle, things are looking up for Amelia. When Amelia and Stitch discover the dead body of someone she used to be friends with, she can’t help but try and figure out the “whodunit” herself.

As I said above, if you don’t mind an amateur sleuth who potentially puts herself in harm’s way time and again and you have a family who doesn’t take your book away from you due to all of your yelling of things like “DON’T OPEN THAT DOOR!” or . . . .



You’ll find a well-written, fast paced thriller that doesn’t require a lot of twists and turns in order to be a real page turner. I’ve said it before, but it bears repeating – I dig this Harlequin mystery line of books. I don’t think I’ve picked up a bad one yet.

[Laura · Rating 3 out of 5]

A thriller with the heart of a good mystery. The main character is deaf. With the help of her hearing dog Stitch, she manages to get in and out of stressful situations. The secondary characters are interesting, and all become potential suspects when a body is discovered.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've not read anything written by Heather Gudenkauf, but this won't be the last.

“Not a Sound” is a gripping thriller with just the right amount of love story and research, making this a perfect read for a sunny day at the beach or a rainy day curled up at home.

Set in the fictional bluff town of Mathias, Iowa, the novel opens with nurse Amelia Winn sustaining a horrific accident that takes away her ability to hear any sound at all, a condition known as profound deafness. “Two years later,” Amelia explains in her deadpan voice, “I’m almost divorced, unemployed, profoundly deaf, probably an alcoholic and still a little pissed. Okay, an alcoholic. No probably.”

While out paddle boarding with her affable service dog Stitch, Amelia comes across the body of a former colleague who was brutally murdered — and maybe tortured. As Amelia learns more about the case from her childhood friend, police detective Jake Schroeder, she begins to realize this isn’t a random killing, and community members, her ex-husband, and possibly her employer might be involved.

“Not a Sound” is a fast-moving novel with plenty of twists and turns. But what takes Gudenkauf’s work to another level is her careful research into police procedure, service animals, and what it’s like to navigate the world — and a murder investigation — with profound hearing loss.

While research could easily take over the novel, Gudenkauf holds back, using these details to support the main narrative, not take away from it, such as when Amelia struggles to connect emotionally with her stepdaughter through her captioned phone: “All I have are the printed words of the conversation — I can’t hear the emotion in her voice. I have no context.”

Insights such as these keep the pages turning because in addition to wanting to find out who’s behind the murder, we also simply want to learn more about Amelia’s world.

I really enjoyed this book. It kept me turning the pages and more than one person looked guilty for awhile. I highly recommend it.

[Debra · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars

Amelia Winn is a nurse who walked a patient to her car one night and they were tragically hit. Her patient died and Amelia suffered many injuries and was left deaf. She spirals into depression and alcoholism after the accident and her husband kicks her out of their home. Two years later she is unemployed, sober and has a service dog. Her soon to be ex-husband has given her a tip on a job with a friend of his.

Initially she misses her job interview when she finds the body of her friend, Gwen, floating in the river. Amelia had been out kayaking and is almost knocked out of her kayak as a boat sped away. On her way to her home she finds her friend's body and calls 911. Thus begins an investigation led by her friend Jake. An investigation which she cannot seem to stay out of. She is determined to learn the identity of her friend's killer.

She is given a second chance for the interview and is given the job as a file clerk. Happy to have something to do she accepts. With her nurses training, she begins to see things that are not right in the files she is helping with. Just what in the world is going on and why is she always at the root of the drama?

While she attempting to re-build her life, it appears that someone is trying to destroy hers. She is sober but comes home to find an open bottle of wine at her home. She knows someone has been in her home and that person is doing their best to make her look crazy or at the very least have a relapse.

Things happen fast in this book and it proved to be a very fast read. Amelia is deaf but she is not helpless. I like that the Author has written her as a strong character who fights back and does not back down. I like that she is working hard to get back on her feet and wont shy away from problems. With her service dog Stitch at her side she is ready to do battle with whatever or whoever comes her way.

This is a fast paced mystery/thriller that does not disappoint. As I mentioned the pace is fast and engaging. There are never any dull moments in the book. The plot is pretty straightforward with a few twists and turns. Nothing too dramatic - this book is more on the simple non-complex side. Not much thinking is needed for this book. This book is great to sit back and read for the pure entertainment factor. I did like that it was very straightforward but a little predictable. Nothing is overly graphic or gory so this book will appeal to most readers.

I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and Harlequin in exchange for an honest review.

See more of my reviews at www.openbookpost.com

[Elizabeth of Silver's Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]



As if losing your hearing because of a hit-and-run driver wasn't enough trauma, Amelia and her service dog, Stitch, found a dead body of a fellow nurse on the beach. 



In addition to losing her hearing and her job as a trauma nurse, Amelia's depression and drinking also caused the failure of her marriage and her income. She desperately needed a job and needed to get back into society because she was still living on her savings after two years and was lonely.


We follow Amelia through her days and nights and her fear about the killer knowing she was the one who found the body, her fear about little things happening while she is away from home, her fear about public interaction, and her continued fear of living in her silent world with people who have the ability to hear even though she can sign and read lips.



We also follow the police investigation with Jake, the head detective, and his protectiveness of Amelia. Is he only being overly protective because he is Ameilia's brother's best friend or for some other reason. Is he also being overprotective when she does investigating herself because she is putting herself in danger by "snooping ?"


Ms. Gudenkauf puts you into Amelia's life and has you wondering what it would be like to be deaf as you empathize with Amelia. Ms. Gudenkauf’s research must have been extensive to make the reader completely feel and experience what Amelia was experiencing as she dealt with the everyday trials of her hearing loss and trying to find out who the murderer was.


The suspense in NOT A SOUND picked up at every turn of the page, and I had a few suspects in mind. Ms. Gudenkauf's writing style pulls you in and keeps you interested and wondering what secrets some of the characters are keeping.

If you enjoy suspense at its best, you won't want to miss NOT A SOUND. I couldn't stop reading. 5/5



This book was given to me free of charge and without compensation by the publisher in return for an honest review.

[Wendy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heather Gudenkauf is on my list of favourite authors and she did not disappoint with "Not A Sound".

Nurse Amelia Winn suddenly becomes deaf when she is involved in a tragic accident. Her life spirals into a depression and she becomes an alcoholic resulting in the loss of her husband, stepdaughter and job. Two years later and with the help of her hearing dog, Stitch, she is finally getting her life back on track only to discover the body of a fellow nurse in the dense bush, by the river, near her cabin.

She is plunged into a distressing mystery and investigation that could shatter all she has accomplished in becoming well again.

Writing "Not A Sound" from the point of view of a deaf character is not only unique but fascinating as well. I highly recommend this page-turner!

Thank you to Net Galley, Heather Gudenkauf, and Harlequin for an arc of this novel.

[Kathryn · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars. From the moment I began reading Not A Sound I was fully into it. Heather Gudenkauf pulled me in with her opening scene, and her writing had me imagining clearly the scenes she was setting.

The story is told from the viewpoint of Amelia, who is deaf after an accident that was appalling. It was really interesting to be drawn into a deaf person's world, to find out in a new way what they miss out on. I never thought about them not being able to differentiate emotions because they can't hear the tone and inflections of a voice. I found the phone that translates a voice into written text an insight, and the fact a deaf person is unsure of how loud or soft there voice is when speaking. Amelia is a strong, resilient person, she has known the depths of despair and part of this story is the finding of herself again and taking her place in her world about her.

Her dog Stitch, a service dog, is very much a character too. I liked that he wasn't perfect! He's a flawed character - with good reason! He didn't always do as he was told, but he was very loyal to Amelia, loving and protective and showed how a service dog is so helpful.

I loved the mystery and the untangling of a crime. At times it was a little scary - but not too much. The story moved along at a very good pace, the clues were slowly revealed as Amelia followed the trail. I felt that Amelia perhaps took on too much and that Jake the detective was a little more out of the picture than he should have been at crucial times.

A very satisfying read, one that had me reaching for the book any moment I had. It may be that I don't read mystery/crime very often, but... it brought back the juicy feeling of reading a good book.

[Tracy P. · Rating 4 out of 5]

A riveting novel centering around main character, Amelia, who could not have been living a more happy, successful and purposeful life. She was working the job of her dreams as a highly revered critical care nurse, married to a highly sought after Ob/Gyn who was madly in love with her and visa versa, and also raising her young stepdaughter - who called her mom and they also both adored each other. Until one tragic day all of this was ripped away from her in the blink of eye in a terrible car accident and rendering her permanently deaf. Having life as she knew it stolen out from under her triggered her alcoholism and as a result she lost her husband, stepdaughter, and sense of self.
The story starts with her making her way out of the abyss of drinking and figuring out how to live life without sound. She has a job interview as a file clerk for a highly acclaimed oncologist with the hopes of working her way back into nursing as a deaf person. On the day of her interview she happens upon the dead body of an old friend who she worked closely with prior to her accident. Hence the story of Amelia, her loyal service dog Stitch, and their relentless plight to find the killer begins.
I was especially touched by Ms. Gudenkauf's afterword as she discusses how this is her most loved work to date because it is deeply personal. She, too, is hearing impaired with permanent deafness in one ear. She also mentions that her son had a battle with cancer and this why she had Amelia working in the field of Oncology. This book touches on many hot issue topics - healthcare disparities, unscrupulous practitioners taking advantage of people at their sickest, the stigma of addiction, and more.
Kudos to narrator Julia Whelan who always delivers an exceptional audiobook.

[♥Rachel♥ · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

Amelia’s life fell apart after an accident left her deaf, losing her husband and stepdaughter in the process. I can understand how Amelia could let things fall apart, but thankfully the author doesn’t drag us through the depressing experience. We pick up with Amelia slowly getting back on track: sober, new job, reconnecting with her stepdaughter, Nora, and getting back on friendly terms with her ex-husband, David. She wouldn’t have got that far without the help of Jake, her childhood friend, and detective on the Mathias Police Force.

Things are going great when Amelia discovers the body of a woman close to her home. She becomes wrapped up in the mystery, and in the path of danger.

The challenges of living without hearing gave an unexpected layer of terror to the story. Someone could be walking in your house, up your stairs, rush you while you unlock your car door, and you wouldn’t hear them coming until it was too late. A frightening prospect. That’s where the lovable Stitch, her service dog came in handy. Stitch wasn’t always super obedient, but he had an adorable personality. He was her lifeline and loyal friend, and came through when it counted.

The idea of spending time in a lakeside cabin during the fall is appealing and I loved the beautiful descriptions of Amelia’s surroundings. However, those peaceful woods turned into a potential hiding spot, eerie with dangerous possibilities once Amelia became a target. There were several silent, suspenseful moments when I felt my skin prickle with alarm!

At times I did feel the writing was a little overly descriptive of the surroundings, the town, the past; things I didn’t feel had much bearing on the overall story. I skimmed where it felt unnecessary to the story.

I was really rooting for Amelia, really liked her. She was back on the right path with her life after falling so low, and she was trying to get justice for the poor woman murdered. That being said, I wasn’t thrilled with a few of Amelia’s choices. I don’t like it when a character ignores their gut feeling or plain facts, getting into risky situations unnecessarily. For the most part Amelia handled whatever came at her pretty well, and those risky situations made for an exciting read! I have to say the ending was a roller coaster thrill ride! Definitely had me on the edge of my seat!

I was pleased with the way the romance turned out, but would’ve liked a little more development. Still, this was a thriller/mystery so I was happy I got any romance at all!

Not a Sound was an exciting mystery! One I read straight through in one sitting! I’ll definitely be on the lookout for Ms. Gudenkauf’s next story!

A copy was kindly provided by Park Row Books via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

This review is also posted at The Readers Den.

[Brenda · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rating this one 3.5 stars for now. Debating on rounding up to 4.

[Jeanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating 4.5 stars

I know when I read a Heather Gudenkaufnovel, I find a character that I want to spend time getting to know. Amelia Winn is no different. She lives alone, separated from her husband, battling demons caused by her accident that left her deaf and having tendencies of alcoholism. Before the accident, she had purpose being a nurse, a step mom to her daughter Nora and a wife. She now lives in isolation by the river that she enjoys kayaking with her service dog Stitch. Gudenkauf gives Stitch personality that makes dog lovers take note.

Winn starts her day flowing down the river to calm her nerves before a big job interview later that morning. A job that may get her back in the medical field. It is at the river bend, that Stitch discovers a body of a woman that Amelia knows. Gwen is a nurse, married and a mother. Who would want to kill her and why? Amelia becomes obsessed as Gwen in the past two years since her accident reached out to her on several occasions. Feeling guilty and ashamed, she is determined to find the truth. In the past, Gwen and Amelia have worked with spousal abuse victims and Amelia starts her quest on that road, but like the river she loves, she finds herself going thru turbulent waters searching for Gwen's killer.

I enjoyed the relationship part of this novel. Between owner and dog especially and the relationship Amelia was building with a old family friend. Also being deaf and how Amelia overcame her short-comings. With a character and plot driven novel, you can't go wrong with this one.

A Special Thank You to Harlequin and Netgalley for the ARC and the opportunity to post an honest review.

[Mallory · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a face paced mystery/thriller that I absolutely devoured. I liked the main character Amelia - a former nurse who was in an accident causing her to lose her hearing. This led to her losing her husband and stepdaughter as well. Amelia has a hearing service dog Stitch (who let’s face it was the real hero of the story), she’s stopped drinking, and even has a job interview. The morning of her interview she is out paddle boarding with Stitch when they find a dead woman, Gwen another nurse and former friend. Amelia has a hard time leaving the mystery to the police and doesn’t let her disability stop her from snooping around.

[Ellen Gail · Rating 5 out of 5]

YES THIS WAS GOOD AND YOU SHOULD READ IT- a review in all caps by Ellen Gail