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Silencing Anna
Voices surround Anna as she lies on her hospital bed, but she cannot answer them. Her voice has been taken, along with her mobility and her sight. She can hear the nurses chattering and her family that come to visit. Her mum cries a lot and her dad struggles to deal with what he sees. Life used to be good for Anna, but life can change in a heartbeat, as she knows so well.
And then there are the people we think we know. When the smile hides the anger. When the beauty hides the beast.
Only Anna knows the truth, but Anna cannot speak
And then there are the people we think we know. When the smile hides the anger. When the beauty hides the beast.
Only Anna knows the truth, but Anna cannot speak
- GenresFiction
301 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 6, 2018
34 people are currently reading
75 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
September 16, 2018
Anna Bright is in hospital,in a coma after being found bairly alive in a hotel bathroom. Anna is trapped inside her own body,she can't move,she can't see or speak. She can hear the nurses chattering and her family and friends when they come to visit. As Anna desperately tries to communicate with the outside world,someone is watching her,someone who would prefer it if Anna was silent....permanently.
Words can have many definitions as can relationships. This is the story of two different variations of prisons and two completely differing relationships. As Anna lies in her coma,she takes us back through her life and her relationships with kind loving Dylan and manipulative,abusive James. I have never been able to understand how abusers keep their true character hidden for months and even years until they start living with their victim or they get married. Then it's like an invisible switch is flicked and the abusers true personality and attitude does a complete 160% turn,from.kind and loving,to violent and abusive and then back to kind and living and very very sorry. But like in this story,it's always the victims fault,the abuser hasn't done anything wrong. Their not the one with the problem,the victim is the one who is the problem. Anna tried to tell James`s mum June what her son was like but June was just as bad as her son. A fact that made the situation even more confusing for Anna and caused her to doubt herself and wonder if maybe it was her fault that James treated her so badly. Even though she had had a perfectly normal,loving relationship with Dylan. The descriptions of James`s abuse,belittling and manipulations of Anna were shocking and realistic and very hard to read at times. But if I'm honest,after a while began to become a bit repetitive. Yes,I know the cycle of abuse is repetitive and I know that sadly for many people James`s behaviour is their everyday reality. That was just how I personally felt as the story unfolded. My favourite parts of the story were the parts about Anna being a prisoner inside her own body where all she could do all day is lie on her bed and think. I loved the vivid descriptions of her nightmares,the wide range of emotions she experienced as each day passed,the voices that may or may not have been inside her head. How I felt about Anna constantly changed as the story unfolded,she wasn't very likeable at times but she did have some redeemable qualities to her character.
It's a well written debut domestic drama/ thriller,the writers words flow with ease and the storylines in each time frame were easy to follow. It's hard to read at times due to the subject matter and would raise some interesting discussions if it was read by a book group
Many thanks to 3p Publishing and Rachel Gibley of Rachel's Random Resources for the opportunity to read and review this book and take part in the blog tour
Words can have many definitions as can relationships. This is the story of two different variations of prisons and two completely differing relationships. As Anna lies in her coma,she takes us back through her life and her relationships with kind loving Dylan and manipulative,abusive James. I have never been able to understand how abusers keep their true character hidden for months and even years until they start living with their victim or they get married. Then it's like an invisible switch is flicked and the abusers true personality and attitude does a complete 160% turn,from.kind and loving,to violent and abusive and then back to kind and living and very very sorry. But like in this story,it's always the victims fault,the abuser hasn't done anything wrong. Their not the one with the problem,the victim is the one who is the problem. Anna tried to tell James`s mum June what her son was like but June was just as bad as her son. A fact that made the situation even more confusing for Anna and caused her to doubt herself and wonder if maybe it was her fault that James treated her so badly. Even though she had had a perfectly normal,loving relationship with Dylan. The descriptions of James`s abuse,belittling and manipulations of Anna were shocking and realistic and very hard to read at times. But if I'm honest,after a while began to become a bit repetitive. Yes,I know the cycle of abuse is repetitive and I know that sadly for many people James`s behaviour is their everyday reality. That was just how I personally felt as the story unfolded. My favourite parts of the story were the parts about Anna being a prisoner inside her own body where all she could do all day is lie on her bed and think. I loved the vivid descriptions of her nightmares,the wide range of emotions she experienced as each day passed,the voices that may or may not have been inside her head. How I felt about Anna constantly changed as the story unfolded,she wasn't very likeable at times but she did have some redeemable qualities to her character.
It's a well written debut domestic drama/ thriller,the writers words flow with ease and the storylines in each time frame were easy to follow. It's hard to read at times due to the subject matter and would raise some interesting discussions if it was read by a book group
Many thanks to 3p Publishing and Rachel Gibley of Rachel's Random Resources for the opportunity to read and review this book and take part in the blog tour
July 9, 2018
Silencing Anna is a good book. It’s a little slow at times. It’s a story about Anna who is in a deep coma and about her boyfriends and her life before and during the coma.
#netgalley
#netgalley
September 3, 2022
This book starts with Anna who is in a coma, she had an accident after a fight with her boyfriend James. Everyone believes that Anna was injured by her boyfriend James and that he tried to kill her and left her for dead. The truth though was she slipped and hit her head on the bidet in the bathroom. However, Anna would love to see James pay for what he has done to her as we learn he is an abuser and that some days he would treat Anna like a Queen, and on other occasions, it would be a flip of the switch and she would be called names, injured and treated like dirt and then, of course, James would make it seem like she was in the fault. While in her coma, Anna hears the world and it gives her time to reflect on how her life went and ended this way. We learn that Anna's first true love was Dylan and how that ended, reading Anna and Dylan's story was true love and in a way reminded me of my friend and her husband who like Dylan died in a car crash. The love was intense but soulmate-level. About halfway through the book, Anna starts to slowly wake but what happens when her condition suddenly deteriorates and no one knows why? Is someone trying to keep Anna from telling the truth, so much they are willing to kill her to keep her quiet? Find out in Silencing Anna by Sadie Mitchell. A slow-paced novel, yet a great thriller and an interesting read as was mostly told from an "internal dialogue point of view"
September 20, 2018
Anna is in a coma. She can hear those around her but she can’t communicate with them or even move. There is a clear sense of panic as she is trying to figure out what is happening and how desperately she is trying to communicate with everyone around her. Then the story goes into Anna and Dylan’s relationship. They are a cute couple and good for each other. But then James comes into the picture. He is an all around jerk but Anna falls for him.
James seems like the perfect guy but then his true colors start to show. He is abusive to Anna and Anna tries to get help but then she starts making excuses for James. She does try to find some help but gets nothing for her efforts. Slowly she starts to change too.
This is an amazing read. Sadie Mitchell does a wonderful job conveying all of the emotions of this story. I have to say that when I first met James I couldn’t stand him and wouldn’t have tried to get together with him. As we follow along with the abuse I see common behaviour between both parties. This was written beautifully. I admit I felt for Anna, she seemed to be in the wrong place at the wrong time. But as the story progressed I have to admit that I got frustrated with her since he just kept going back.
If you like thrillers I recommend checking this book out. There are triggers with the abuse but is it written so well that you could almost see text book behaviour.
I received a complimentary book. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.
James seems like the perfect guy but then his true colors start to show. He is abusive to Anna and Anna tries to get help but then she starts making excuses for James. She does try to find some help but gets nothing for her efforts. Slowly she starts to change too.
This is an amazing read. Sadie Mitchell does a wonderful job conveying all of the emotions of this story. I have to say that when I first met James I couldn’t stand him and wouldn’t have tried to get together with him. As we follow along with the abuse I see common behaviour between both parties. This was written beautifully. I admit I felt for Anna, she seemed to be in the wrong place at the wrong time. But as the story progressed I have to admit that I got frustrated with her since he just kept going back.
If you like thrillers I recommend checking this book out. There are triggers with the abuse but is it written so well that you could almost see text book behaviour.
I received a complimentary book. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.
September 20, 2018
Silencing Anna by Sadie Mitchell is a fantastic psychological thriller that is sure to grab eyeballs right from the start. Oh my, what a read! And yes, as mentioned in many other reviews, it does have a twist at the end, fabulous! I can’t stop raving about the book, it is just too good!
I know you guys are getting impatient. So I’ll divulge in all the details for you but first, a short summary. Here we go.
Summary
Anna Bright is in a coma. At the hospital, she can hear people about but cannot move. She is a prisoner in her own body. Visitors keep talking to her as if she were normal and Anna is glad they do so. When her mum informs her that James, her boyfriend, is arrested for her horrible condition, she screams that it is not him and that she has had an accident. But, of course, no one can hear her. How can she get the truth out to people and even of she did, can she ever find justice to what has happened? Would she be able to forget Dylan, her one true love, would she be able to forgive James?
What I Liked
I know the summary sounds kinda haphazard, but dearies, it is done on purpose. The book starts with Anna being in the hospital and as characters get introduced into the story, you might wonder what happened to Dylan, or where does James come into the picture. Well, all I would say is this – keep reading and the puzzle pieces will fit together, blowing your mind away as they do!
I liked how the book started with a zipping pace. The narration is to the point and interesting for the readers to stay on with the story. Absolutely loved the character of Anna also those of Sophie and Chloe. Also, I appreciate how Anna’s situation is described. I could feel the helplessness and frustration and the places where James was involved, I just wanted to tear my hair and scream at Anna! Oh, and the climax? Adrenaline shooter!
Has your interest piqued yet? HAHAHAA!! (Evil laugh!)
What I Did Not Like
The story can get into a little too many details in some sections but that really didn’t bother me. I was too much into the story. But, of course, it might deter an anxious reader.
Other Details
Silencing Anna is the author’s debut book and I must say she has done an outstanding job of it. My God! Sadie’s writing style is impressive and she is definitely one of the authors to watch out for!
The book is based on domestic violence and how it may not seem as serious as it actually is. It has successfully conveyed the message through its thrilling events and twists and an engrossing story line.
Would I Recommend It?
The story contains scenes like medical coma, domestic violence and drinking. If you’re okay with that, then I would highly recommend this book to all psychological thriller enthusiasts.
I know you guys are getting impatient. So I’ll divulge in all the details for you but first, a short summary. Here we go.
Summary
Anna Bright is in a coma. At the hospital, she can hear people about but cannot move. She is a prisoner in her own body. Visitors keep talking to her as if she were normal and Anna is glad they do so. When her mum informs her that James, her boyfriend, is arrested for her horrible condition, she screams that it is not him and that she has had an accident. But, of course, no one can hear her. How can she get the truth out to people and even of she did, can she ever find justice to what has happened? Would she be able to forget Dylan, her one true love, would she be able to forgive James?
What I Liked
I know the summary sounds kinda haphazard, but dearies, it is done on purpose. The book starts with Anna being in the hospital and as characters get introduced into the story, you might wonder what happened to Dylan, or where does James come into the picture. Well, all I would say is this – keep reading and the puzzle pieces will fit together, blowing your mind away as they do!
I liked how the book started with a zipping pace. The narration is to the point and interesting for the readers to stay on with the story. Absolutely loved the character of Anna also those of Sophie and Chloe. Also, I appreciate how Anna’s situation is described. I could feel the helplessness and frustration and the places where James was involved, I just wanted to tear my hair and scream at Anna! Oh, and the climax? Adrenaline shooter!
Has your interest piqued yet? HAHAHAA!! (Evil laugh!)
What I Did Not Like
The story can get into a little too many details in some sections but that really didn’t bother me. I was too much into the story. But, of course, it might deter an anxious reader.
Other Details
Silencing Anna is the author’s debut book and I must say she has done an outstanding job of it. My God! Sadie’s writing style is impressive and she is definitely one of the authors to watch out for!
The book is based on domestic violence and how it may not seem as serious as it actually is. It has successfully conveyed the message through its thrilling events and twists and an engrossing story line.
Would I Recommend It?
The story contains scenes like medical coma, domestic violence and drinking. If you’re okay with that, then I would highly recommend this book to all psychological thriller enthusiasts.
September 17, 2018
Everybody deserves a second, third, fourth, ... chance, don't they?
From the very first page, I was captivated. I loved the way the author has the ability to make me feel the emotions she put down on paper. I was as angry, frustrated, happy, sad and afraid as Anna, but I also wanted to shake her and make her see sense.
On the other hand, I understand her behaviour as well. She wanted to help and see the good, even in the worst situations, and forgot about putting herself first when the going gets too though.
And then there is that twist that takes the story to an even higher level.
The book is very fluently written and totally enthralling. It won't surprise you that I gave it the full 5 stars.
Thank you, Sadie Mitchell and RachelsRandomResources
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
From the very first page, I was captivated. I loved the way the author has the ability to make me feel the emotions she put down on paper. I was as angry, frustrated, happy, sad and afraid as Anna, but I also wanted to shake her and make her see sense.
On the other hand, I understand her behaviour as well. She wanted to help and see the good, even in the worst situations, and forgot about putting herself first when the going gets too though.
And then there is that twist that takes the story to an even higher level.
The book is very fluently written and totally enthralling. It won't surprise you that I gave it the full 5 stars.
Thank you, Sadie Mitchell and RachelsRandomResources
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
June 13, 2018
**Thank you to Net Galley and 3P Publishing for the Advanced Reader Copy in exchange for an unbiased review.**
Trigger Warning: domestic violence, anger issue, loss of a partner, coma patients.
The book draws you in from page 1! It’s written simply and makes you want to read it more and more. Sadie Mitchell’s penmanship hooks you instantly. The books oscillates between the past and the present and the writing is precise and engaging. When the story moves from Dylan to James to Anna’s current situation initially, not once do you feel like the preceding part should go on, or that the upcoming part is something you are not looking forward too. One is not more interesting than the other and that to me is purely due to how brilliantly the author has made each part intriguing and interesting. The characters are well developed and you can almost imagine them in your head. As the story progresses there is enough mystery to keep you engaged. What happened to Dylan? How did James get abusive? What did Anna do? How did she end up here? What is Pam up to, what is her role? These questions haunt you and you want to keep reading more. This is a hard to put down book. The book starts with this sentence “It’s important to take stock of your life.” This book will like make readers do just that especially if they are in a situation like Anna’s. There are many pointers in this book that would help a lot women identify abusive partners, or at least make them stop and wonder. That in itself is a big accomplishment for a book that’s written as a fictional one. The one aspect of abuse this book captures really well and makes you think hard about it is what happens when the abused becomes violent in response to the abuser, is the abused also be called an abuser in that situation or is it more like self defense. Does allowing it to happen make you responsible for it? Sadly I felt like Anna didn’t always make the smart choice and find her way out of the situation before it escalated to a violent one. It is very disturbing to see a pattern, in all books with such subjects, of how abused women will keep going back to the abuser hoping they have changed, hoping that the ‘good’ guy they see glimpses of is real and the monster is now gone. At times I did feel like Anna probably needed help too, whether her behavior was purely a reaction to her abusive relation or something hidden deep within her is food for thought. I felt myself trying to understand and decide if she added fuel to the fire and does it make her somewhat responsible too? Not that it can be an excuse for the abuser. Her only responsibility is for not walking away, not breaking the cycle. What is even better is that the book makes you realize that none of what she did or said warranted James’ behavior. It makes you see her as not only a victim but someone who could stand up for herself and react instead of silently taking the abuse. The book makes you think hard and makes you assess and almost create a plan in your head of what you would do if you were ever in such a relationship, what your exit strategy would be. This is the biggest reason that I highly recommend reading this book. The twist in the final 3 chapters of the book was completely unexpected and was handled beautifully. The point of view of a person being fully aware of everything around then but being trapped in their own body while in a coma is well presented and thought provoking. I am conflicted about the fates of James and Pam, but I don’t know if any ending would be satisfying given the nature of the story. All in all, the book is well researched and believable. This is probably the longest review I’ve ever written which is not surprising since I completely loved this book. Take a bow Sadie Mitchell, this book is a winner.
Trigger Warning: domestic violence, anger issue, loss of a partner, coma patients.
The book draws you in from page 1! It’s written simply and makes you want to read it more and more. Sadie Mitchell’s penmanship hooks you instantly. The books oscillates between the past and the present and the writing is precise and engaging. When the story moves from Dylan to James to Anna’s current situation initially, not once do you feel like the preceding part should go on, or that the upcoming part is something you are not looking forward too. One is not more interesting than the other and that to me is purely due to how brilliantly the author has made each part intriguing and interesting. The characters are well developed and you can almost imagine them in your head. As the story progresses there is enough mystery to keep you engaged. What happened to Dylan? How did James get abusive? What did Anna do? How did she end up here? What is Pam up to, what is her role? These questions haunt you and you want to keep reading more. This is a hard to put down book. The book starts with this sentence “It’s important to take stock of your life.” This book will like make readers do just that especially if they are in a situation like Anna’s. There are many pointers in this book that would help a lot women identify abusive partners, or at least make them stop and wonder. That in itself is a big accomplishment for a book that’s written as a fictional one. The one aspect of abuse this book captures really well and makes you think hard about it is what happens when the abused becomes violent in response to the abuser, is the abused also be called an abuser in that situation or is it more like self defense. Does allowing it to happen make you responsible for it? Sadly I felt like Anna didn’t always make the smart choice and find her way out of the situation before it escalated to a violent one. It is very disturbing to see a pattern, in all books with such subjects, of how abused women will keep going back to the abuser hoping they have changed, hoping that the ‘good’ guy they see glimpses of is real and the monster is now gone. At times I did feel like Anna probably needed help too, whether her behavior was purely a reaction to her abusive relation or something hidden deep within her is food for thought. I felt myself trying to understand and decide if she added fuel to the fire and does it make her somewhat responsible too? Not that it can be an excuse for the abuser. Her only responsibility is for not walking away, not breaking the cycle. What is even better is that the book makes you realize that none of what she did or said warranted James’ behavior. It makes you see her as not only a victim but someone who could stand up for herself and react instead of silently taking the abuse. The book makes you think hard and makes you assess and almost create a plan in your head of what you would do if you were ever in such a relationship, what your exit strategy would be. This is the biggest reason that I highly recommend reading this book. The twist in the final 3 chapters of the book was completely unexpected and was handled beautifully. The point of view of a person being fully aware of everything around then but being trapped in their own body while in a coma is well presented and thought provoking. I am conflicted about the fates of James and Pam, but I don’t know if any ending would be satisfying given the nature of the story. All in all, the book is well researched and believable. This is probably the longest review I’ve ever written which is not surprising since I completely loved this book. Take a bow Sadie Mitchell, this book is a winner.
September 16, 2018
I picked up Silencing Anna and read a huge portion of it before I realised how much time had passed. Anna is currently lying in a hospital bed frozen in every form. You can sense the sheer panic of her being able to hear people but not be capable of expressing her own feelings in any shape or form, no speech, no movement, minimal tears. The author wrote this with the chilling accuracy of getting under the readers skin. I really felt Anna’s frustration and being from a medical background I found it extremely interesting.
Next we get various viewpoints and segments of Anna’s life previous to where she is now .. her Uni friends, her love affair with Dylan and her relationship with James. Anna is lucky, she is a normal young girl with her dreams ahead of her, her intention is to be a teacher. Her best friend Chloe is loyal and kind, just the sort of best friend I’d like. Sophie is a Uni friend and she plays a big part in Anna’s life along with her mum. Anna longs to have a normal family, mum keeps them all going, sister Eve and dad who is a protected ‘drinker’.
I enjoyed reading about the carefree young Anna along with Dylan there are some really sweet and tender moments where love will always find a way. However as soon as we met James I took an instant dislike to him he was so cocksure and arrogant and as the story unfolds and we see the way he treats Anna my opinion of him went down further. I was screaming at her to get away, leopards never change their spots and he was a definite example of that. She could see how her life was changing, her world was becoming smaller but as with so many abusers she thought it must be her fault. She made him like that!!!
I do feel the sections with James could have been cut shorter, it started to feel like we were reading her journal, I didn’t particularly need to know exactly how many drinks he had or what they were eating etc. As the book progressed I did figure out fairly early who was responsible for some of the actions so it didn’t come as any great surprise when that was revealed.
A great book for raising awareness of domestic violence and abuse .. but does abuse work both ways, is being provoked a good enough reason for retaliation ? I began the book riveted to the pages desperate to find out what Anna’s fate was going to be, it did begin to lull about three quarters of the way through and I found the end a bit slow going, but overall … a brilliant debut from this author and I will be keen to see what she produces next.
Thanks to the author, publisher and Rachel from Random Resources for my copy. I read and reviewed voluntarily.
Next we get various viewpoints and segments of Anna’s life previous to where she is now .. her Uni friends, her love affair with Dylan and her relationship with James. Anna is lucky, she is a normal young girl with her dreams ahead of her, her intention is to be a teacher. Her best friend Chloe is loyal and kind, just the sort of best friend I’d like. Sophie is a Uni friend and she plays a big part in Anna’s life along with her mum. Anna longs to have a normal family, mum keeps them all going, sister Eve and dad who is a protected ‘drinker’.
I enjoyed reading about the carefree young Anna along with Dylan there are some really sweet and tender moments where love will always find a way. However as soon as we met James I took an instant dislike to him he was so cocksure and arrogant and as the story unfolds and we see the way he treats Anna my opinion of him went down further. I was screaming at her to get away, leopards never change their spots and he was a definite example of that. She could see how her life was changing, her world was becoming smaller but as with so many abusers she thought it must be her fault. She made him like that!!!
I do feel the sections with James could have been cut shorter, it started to feel like we were reading her journal, I didn’t particularly need to know exactly how many drinks he had or what they were eating etc. As the book progressed I did figure out fairly early who was responsible for some of the actions so it didn’t come as any great surprise when that was revealed.
A great book for raising awareness of domestic violence and abuse .. but does abuse work both ways, is being provoked a good enough reason for retaliation ? I began the book riveted to the pages desperate to find out what Anna’s fate was going to be, it did begin to lull about three quarters of the way through and I found the end a bit slow going, but overall … a brilliant debut from this author and I will be keen to see what she produces next.
Thanks to the author, publisher and Rachel from Random Resources for my copy. I read and reviewed voluntarily.
September 18, 2018
Voices surround Anna as she lies on her hospital bed, but she cannot answer them. Her voice has been taken, along with her mobility and her sight. She can hear the nurses chattering and her family that come to visit. Her mum cries a lot and her dad struggles to deal with what he sees. Life used to be good for Anna, but life can change in a heartbeat, as she knows so well.
And then there are the people we think we know. When the smile hides the anger. When the beauty hides the beast.
Only Anna knows the truth, but Anna cannot speak.
This book was a pleasure to read from beginning to end. The synopsis of the book had me hooked as I love the type of book that is suggested by the description. A woman in a coma, who can hear everything that goes on around her, but is trapped in her own body and cannot speak or communicate with those around her.
Silencing Anna had me literally reading non-stop as I was always curious as to what what going on and what would happen next. What happened for Anna to go into a coma where she is unable to wake up and communicate with others? Would she ever wake up?
We are introduced to many characters in this book. Some of Anna's friends from her past, her past relationships, her current friends and her family. Anna is a very likeable character and you can't help but feel sad for her and sorry for the situation she is currently in. Some characters in this book you will grow to despise, but most you will grow to love and really like.
Without giving too much away this book was fantastic and I enjoyed it immensely from beginning to end. The storyline had me hooked and I enjoyed reading as the story unfolded. As we read along we learn how much Anna has gone through, all the love, heartache, despair, and hurt.
We can't help as the reader wish all the best for her and hope that she is able to recover and wake up. Will she wake up? You will have to read the book to find out.
And then there are the people we think we know. When the smile hides the anger. When the beauty hides the beast.
Only Anna knows the truth, but Anna cannot speak.
This book was a pleasure to read from beginning to end. The synopsis of the book had me hooked as I love the type of book that is suggested by the description. A woman in a coma, who can hear everything that goes on around her, but is trapped in her own body and cannot speak or communicate with those around her.
Silencing Anna had me literally reading non-stop as I was always curious as to what what going on and what would happen next. What happened for Anna to go into a coma where she is unable to wake up and communicate with others? Would she ever wake up?
We are introduced to many characters in this book. Some of Anna's friends from her past, her past relationships, her current friends and her family. Anna is a very likeable character and you can't help but feel sad for her and sorry for the situation she is currently in. Some characters in this book you will grow to despise, but most you will grow to love and really like.
Without giving too much away this book was fantastic and I enjoyed it immensely from beginning to end. The storyline had me hooked and I enjoyed reading as the story unfolded. As we read along we learn how much Anna has gone through, all the love, heartache, despair, and hurt.
We can't help as the reader wish all the best for her and hope that she is able to recover and wake up. Will she wake up? You will have to read the book to find out.
September 17, 2018
This is a excellent debut novel by Sadie Mitchell, and I will definitely read her second.
At the beginning of the book Anna is in hospital, unable to communicate with the outside world. She can feel, hear and think, and she tells us her story through her thoughts. An intelligent student Anna is starting her life, in love and with her future mapped out.
Her life changes dramatically and she struggles to carry on with the life she had planned, and she then she meets James. Handsome and generous, Anna can’t believe her luck, but has her vulnerability led her into something dangerous?
The story flits between Anna’s backstory and her nightmare lying in a hospital bed, as she continues to discover the real James.
This book is similar to a book I previously reviewed Signs In The Rearview Mirror: Leaving A Toxic Relationship Behind, as they both deal with toxic and abusive relationships. The partnership deteriorates quickly and I felt myself screaming at Anna to see the signs and leave, but life is never as easy as that is it? Some people are good manipulators and Sadie has made James excellent at this. Narcissists are very good at making the innocent party feel like they are to blame for what they do.
Sadie has written about domestic abuse well, the feeling of guilt and shame, wanting help but not feeling like you can confide in anyone, thinking you are over reacting. Anna goes through all of these thought processes and its interesting (and infuriating) how she can think her way into excusing intolerable behaviour.
James’ history is discovered and Anna from her hospital bed could have the last laugh or is she is more danger there than she was before?
The book was not an easy read due to the subject, but it well worth reading. Please be aware it may contain triggers for some readers and the author has listed some helpline numbers at the end.
At the beginning of the book Anna is in hospital, unable to communicate with the outside world. She can feel, hear and think, and she tells us her story through her thoughts. An intelligent student Anna is starting her life, in love and with her future mapped out.
Her life changes dramatically and she struggles to carry on with the life she had planned, and she then she meets James. Handsome and generous, Anna can’t believe her luck, but has her vulnerability led her into something dangerous?
The story flits between Anna’s backstory and her nightmare lying in a hospital bed, as she continues to discover the real James.
This book is similar to a book I previously reviewed Signs In The Rearview Mirror: Leaving A Toxic Relationship Behind, as they both deal with toxic and abusive relationships. The partnership deteriorates quickly and I felt myself screaming at Anna to see the signs and leave, but life is never as easy as that is it? Some people are good manipulators and Sadie has made James excellent at this. Narcissists are very good at making the innocent party feel like they are to blame for what they do.
Sadie has written about domestic abuse well, the feeling of guilt and shame, wanting help but not feeling like you can confide in anyone, thinking you are over reacting. Anna goes through all of these thought processes and its interesting (and infuriating) how she can think her way into excusing intolerable behaviour.
James’ history is discovered and Anna from her hospital bed could have the last laugh or is she is more danger there than she was before?
The book was not an easy read due to the subject, but it well worth reading. Please be aware it may contain triggers for some readers and the author has listed some helpline numbers at the end.
September 19, 2018
This is a debut novel, people! I couldn’t believe it. This grips you from page one, and doesn’t let you go until you’ve finished the novel. I could not put Silencing Anna down. It’s a unique plot, unlike anything I’ve read. Anna is in a coma, and you can feel the panic of not being able to express her feelings, yet being able to hear everyone around her. It’s chilling and frustrating – Sadie Mitchell writes with such vivid accuracy, that you almost feel like you’re lying there with Anna.
We are taken on an emotional journey where we see Anna as a carefree girl morph into an insecure, abused victim. Admittedly, this is difficult to read about, but it was written in such a compelling way, that I needed to find out what happened.
This was definitely a psychological thriller. I was taken on a journey of all sorts of emotions. Silencing Anna was captivating, unique, emotional and surprising. I highly recommend this one!
*I received a copy of this for a blog tour. All opinions are my own.*
We are taken on an emotional journey where we see Anna as a carefree girl morph into an insecure, abused victim. Admittedly, this is difficult to read about, but it was written in such a compelling way, that I needed to find out what happened.
This was definitely a psychological thriller. I was taken on a journey of all sorts of emotions. Silencing Anna was captivating, unique, emotional and surprising. I highly recommend this one!
*I received a copy of this for a blog tour. All opinions are my own.*
September 20, 2018
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I enjoyed this story, the idea is great and the execution is very good.
The characters are strong and well developed, the pace was good but I did find it a little slow at times but I am very glad I persisted with the story.
I enjoyed how the story told the life before and after her accident as well as dealing with the trauma of her being in the hospital – I can only imagine how horrific it must be to be in a situation like this. I enjoyed how the story progressed as the book approached its ending.
The writing style was good and I will definitely be looking to see what else the author offers. Four stars from me for this one – I really enjoyed it
I enjoyed this story, the idea is great and the execution is very good.
The characters are strong and well developed, the pace was good but I did find it a little slow at times but I am very glad I persisted with the story.
I enjoyed how the story told the life before and after her accident as well as dealing with the trauma of her being in the hospital – I can only imagine how horrific it must be to be in a situation like this. I enjoyed how the story progressed as the book approached its ending.
The writing style was good and I will definitely be looking to see what else the author offers. Four stars from me for this one – I really enjoyed it
July 1, 2018
Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to review Silencing Anna. I found the beginning part of this novel to be a bit choppy but about a third of the way through, the author hit her stride. I found the characters to be believable and the story engaging. At times the abuse scenes seemed a little contrived while other times, they felt authentic. Overall I’d give this book three stars.
July 8, 2018
Wow just wow! Such a great book, I couldn't wait for bedtime so I could get back to it! Tension, sadness, revenge, fear, anger,happiness and loss all covered in this book. I did put 2and 2 together regarding Anna's worsening condition but this certainly didn't spoil the story in any way it just made me hope that someone would realise before it was too late. Great read 5 stars 🌟
July 29, 2024
I was completely intrigued by the premise of the book and I thought the thoughts of Anna trapped inside her body were beautifully written and certainly made me reflect on how much we should be grateful for. A story about two kinds of prison including an abusive relationship, is a very brave subject to tackle and whilst it was extremely difficult to read in places, it was completely compelling. Anna’s character was developed so skilfully that I felt the whole range of emotions with her and admired her strength and determination. I did find that towards the end the descriptions were a bit too detailed and this made it drag a bit but a very impressive debut.
July 14, 2018
Anna is in a coma following an accident that everyone thinks was an assault by her abusive boyfriend. The book follows three strands of story – Anna in the coma, Anna’s time with her ‘first love’ Dylan and Anna’s life with the abusive James.
There are a few parts of the book that are actually very well done. The section describing Anna hallucinating was vivid and was one of the few times I felt for Anna. And the concept is an interesting one, narrated by someone in a coma, combining three different time/story strands.
I liked how Anna’s condition as a prison mirrored Dannielle’s incarceration, and to an extent the prison of her relationship with James. The structure, white it had problems, also seemed to mirror the disjointed nature of Anna’s thoughts in her coma/locked in state.
However, I had a number of problems with the book.
The First was Anna. While it is laudable and ambitious to have a ‘victim; of domestic violence who is herself a drunk and violent, the author steam rollers home that, unlike James, Anna’s violence is wholly justifiable because James ‘provokes’ her. Anna is not a likable or sympathetic character. She has no self-awareness and ultimately it is hard to care what happens to her.
The book at times read as though it was a guide to domestic violence rather than the story of someone who experienced an abusive relationship. And while the author has obviously done a great deal of research, the development of the abuse did not seem convincing. It was almost as though the author had a list of abusing behaviours in a random order and was ticking each one off, with behaviours that would be at the beginning of a relationship (belittling, isolating, criticism) and act to create a 'victim’ not referred to until much later, sometimes as something Anna has just remembered as happening earlier, sometimes a contemporary realisation. It felt like a mish mash of different people’s experiences and information leaflets rather than a cohesive story of domestic abuse.
The dialogue was a big issue for me. It just didn’t feel natural and was quite clunky at times.
Two of the three story strands, Dylan and James, were extremely dull. The Dylan story was the dullest. There is no conflict – the one thing essential in a story. There are important character elements to be extrapolated from it but these are packaged up in a mountain of unnecessary bloat.
The James story was so repetitive that I ended up skimming the majority of it as it was the same dialogue and inner monologue over and over. I know the author was illustrating a repetitive cycle, but there has to be a better way to do so.
The most successful story strand was the real time hospital story. Unfortunately, the ‘twist’ was so heavily telegraphed I wondered whether or not it was supposed to be a twist.
An ambitious first novel with a good central idea and some pretty good parts but let down by repetition, bloating and preaching.
There are a few parts of the book that are actually very well done. The section describing Anna hallucinating was vivid and was one of the few times I felt for Anna. And the concept is an interesting one, narrated by someone in a coma, combining three different time/story strands.
I liked how Anna’s condition as a prison mirrored Dannielle’s incarceration, and to an extent the prison of her relationship with James. The structure, white it had problems, also seemed to mirror the disjointed nature of Anna’s thoughts in her coma/locked in state.
However, I had a number of problems with the book.
The First was Anna. While it is laudable and ambitious to have a ‘victim; of domestic violence who is herself a drunk and violent, the author steam rollers home that, unlike James, Anna’s violence is wholly justifiable because James ‘provokes’ her. Anna is not a likable or sympathetic character. She has no self-awareness and ultimately it is hard to care what happens to her.
The book at times read as though it was a guide to domestic violence rather than the story of someone who experienced an abusive relationship. And while the author has obviously done a great deal of research, the development of the abuse did not seem convincing. It was almost as though the author had a list of abusing behaviours in a random order and was ticking each one off, with behaviours that would be at the beginning of a relationship (belittling, isolating, criticism) and act to create a 'victim’ not referred to until much later, sometimes as something Anna has just remembered as happening earlier, sometimes a contemporary realisation. It felt like a mish mash of different people’s experiences and information leaflets rather than a cohesive story of domestic abuse.
The dialogue was a big issue for me. It just didn’t feel natural and was quite clunky at times.
Two of the three story strands, Dylan and James, were extremely dull. The Dylan story was the dullest. There is no conflict – the one thing essential in a story. There are important character elements to be extrapolated from it but these are packaged up in a mountain of unnecessary bloat.
The James story was so repetitive that I ended up skimming the majority of it as it was the same dialogue and inner monologue over and over. I know the author was illustrating a repetitive cycle, but there has to be a better way to do so.
The most successful story strand was the real time hospital story. Unfortunately, the ‘twist’ was so heavily telegraphed I wondered whether or not it was supposed to be a twist.
An ambitious first novel with a good central idea and some pretty good parts but let down by repetition, bloating and preaching.
August 29, 2018
(Trigger warning: Domestic abuse, coma, anger issues ) Anna is in hospital after a fall. She is trapped inside her body as she can’t see, speak or move but can hear. She was found almost dead by a hotel worker in the bathroom having hit her head on the bidet. The thing is that the police think that her boyfriend James was the cause of the fall and it looks like he is going to be prosecuted for attempted manslaughter. Whilst Anna is in this trapped, frustrated state she takes us through various parts of her life- university and how she met James. The story of her first love Dylan and how things have now changed. The progression from being trapped to being able to squeeze someone’s hand for the first time and signal yes and no accordingly. There is more to James and his parents than meets the eye. OMG. One of those reads that makes you slightly anxious whilst wanting to find out what happens next and if justice is served. Anna comes across as a strong person however one who is naive in what is happening in the relationship and how she should deal with it. This is a brave subject to tackle and one done very well. It draws you into it and anyone who hasn’t been in that situation may wonder why not take the easy route and leave- it’s really not that easy with a controlling person in charge of your life. Like many others Anna felt responsible for James’s behaviour in that she felt somehow she had caused it. “It is important to take stock of your life”, so begins the book. Read this and it makes you think of how you would deal with being in such a relationship (doesn’t always have to be a partner) and even if you would realise it before things got out of hand. For me, it shook me. I saw things in people in my past that I thought I had imagined- or thought it was me. A controlling element, selfishness etc. This book will hopefully make others see what they don’t have to put up with. The relationship with Dylan shows that Anna is a normal person and more than capable of a normal relationship. A truly stunning read.
For more reviews please see my blog http://nickibookblog.blogspot.co.uk/
or follow me on Twitter @nickijmurphy1
For more reviews please see my blog http://nickibookblog.blogspot.co.uk/
or follow me on Twitter @nickijmurphy1
June 21, 2018
‘Silencing Anna’ is the story of how Anna ends up in a coma, unable to move or speak, yet able to hear everything that is going on around her. I have such mixed feelings about this book. Content-wise, the story was absolutely brilliant, and the way in which Sadie was able to flit back in forth between the current time and what she experiences whilst in a coma, and the past events that lead up to her being in a coma, was so cleverly and seamlessly executed. The main theme of the book is domestic abuse, and Anna sadly finds herself in an awful relationship. I think the way this has been portrayed has balanced the fine line between offering a sensitive account of Anna’s experiences, with an eye-opening and shocking story. I think it goes a long way to opening people’s minds to the manipulation and abuse that can go on behind closed doors, and also demonstrates why so many people stay in abusive relationships.
What really let this book down however, was the appalling sentence formation and the completely incorrect use of punctuation. Commas where there should have been full stops, full stops where there should have been commas. Long sentences without ANY punctuation where there should have been some. Punctuation is SO important, and without commas, the context of a sentence completely changes. There were so many points in the book where I had to re-read the sentences to ensure I had inserted my own commas in the correct places whilst reading. What is actually a really well-written book, was completely let down by a lack of proof-reading and poor punctuation. I can only hope that this gets ironed out before it gets published.
What really let this book down however, was the appalling sentence formation and the completely incorrect use of punctuation. Commas where there should have been full stops, full stops where there should have been commas. Long sentences without ANY punctuation where there should have been some. Punctuation is SO important, and without commas, the context of a sentence completely changes. There were so many points in the book where I had to re-read the sentences to ensure I had inserted my own commas in the correct places whilst reading. What is actually a really well-written book, was completely let down by a lack of proof-reading and poor punctuation. I can only hope that this gets ironed out before it gets published.
March 5, 2025
"Voices surround Anna as she lies on her hospital bed, but she cannot answer them. Her voice has been taken, along with her mobility and her sight.
Only Anna knows the truth about what happened that night, but Anna cannot speak."
This was a book of two enjoyment levels for me. I enjoyed the intrigue of finding out what actually happened to Anna, which we are drip fed chapter by chapter until nearly the end of the book. With great suspense and working out who was helping her and who was hindering her and why. However, the constant and, in my opinion, unnecessary repetitive use of abusive and vile language that you can hurl at a woman, including the c... word endlessly by James made it more of an uncomfortable read than it needed to be. I wanted to shout to the Author "okay, so we know he called her repulsive names endlessly, but do you need to keep including the words, we get the picture!". The various descriptions of the beatings didn't bother me quite as much.
So a warning for anyone who is sensitive, there is an overload of bad language.
Only Anna knows the truth about what happened that night, but Anna cannot speak."
This was a book of two enjoyment levels for me. I enjoyed the intrigue of finding out what actually happened to Anna, which we are drip fed chapter by chapter until nearly the end of the book. With great suspense and working out who was helping her and who was hindering her and why. However, the constant and, in my opinion, unnecessary repetitive use of abusive and vile language that you can hurl at a woman, including the c... word endlessly by James made it more of an uncomfortable read than it needed to be. I wanted to shout to the Author "okay, so we know he called her repulsive names endlessly, but do you need to keep including the words, we get the picture!". The various descriptions of the beatings didn't bother me quite as much.
So a warning for anyone who is sensitive, there is an overload of bad language.
August 23, 2018
Silencing Anna grabbed me from the first sentence and I didn't want to stop reading. The times I did have to put it down I found myself thinking about it.
The description of the cycle of domestic violence is incredibly accurate. Anna's actions and confusion are also an accurate description of what goes on in the mind of someone trapped in that kind of relationship.
From being trapped in an abusive relationship to being trapped in her own body, Anna exemplifies strength and wisdom.
This should be read by every woman, regardless of age, as a cautionary tool. It clearly shows how easily someone can get drawn into this and not see what's happening until they're in deep.
A wonderful book of hope and strength with a perfect ending. I wish I could give it six stars!
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
The description of the cycle of domestic violence is incredibly accurate. Anna's actions and confusion are also an accurate description of what goes on in the mind of someone trapped in that kind of relationship.
From being trapped in an abusive relationship to being trapped in her own body, Anna exemplifies strength and wisdom.
This should be read by every woman, regardless of age, as a cautionary tool. It clearly shows how easily someone can get drawn into this and not see what's happening until they're in deep.
A wonderful book of hope and strength with a perfect ending. I wish I could give it six stars!
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 7, 2024
Sadly, this is a case of a great concept poorly done.
Too much telling, not enough showing.
Extremely repetitive.
Add to that a protagonist I felt zero empathy towards—Anna had few redeeming qualities, was uninteresting, and I felt unmoved by her plight.
Which might have worked had I hated James but he was the spoiled brat abuser written without malice or any real menace.
Plus the “twist” was foreshadowed in such an obvious way you’d have to be quite oblivious not to have figured out what was going on.
So all in all a good idea but poorly executed.
Too much telling, not enough showing.
Extremely repetitive.
Add to that a protagonist I felt zero empathy towards—Anna had few redeeming qualities, was uninteresting, and I felt unmoved by her plight.
Which might have worked had I hated James but he was the spoiled brat abuser written without malice or any real menace.
Plus the “twist” was foreshadowed in such an obvious way you’d have to be quite oblivious not to have figured out what was going on.
So all in all a good idea but poorly executed.
August 24, 2018
Fantastic, moving and life affirming
What Sadie has managed to do is not just a work of art but has managed to reach out to others in or have been in abusive relationships. It's a masterful book that holds you to the very end. I can't wait to read the next book - seriously good read, highly recommended.
What Sadie has managed to do is not just a work of art but has managed to reach out to others in or have been in abusive relationships. It's a masterful book that holds you to the very end. I can't wait to read the next book - seriously good read, highly recommended.
August 10, 2024
unbelievably amazing!!!!
Wow this book grabs you, pulls you in and doesn’t let go!!! So tmany emotions, thoughts, what a truly outstanding psychologist thriller.
Covers so many angles but is based largely around love but also domestic abuse. Anna is in a coma, but how did she get there ….
Will definitely be looking for more by this author!!
Wow this book grabs you, pulls you in and doesn’t let go!!! So tmany emotions, thoughts, what a truly outstanding psychologist thriller.
Covers so many angles but is based largely around love but also domestic abuse. Anna is in a coma, but how did she get there ….
Will definitely be looking for more by this author!!
July 7, 2018
Thanks to Netgalley for my copy.
This is a very well researched story of emotional and physical abuse. It drew me in from the beginning and kept my interest throughout. The author captures the fear that Anna must have felt at the hands of her abuser and then whilst in the hospital beautifully.
This is a very well researched story of emotional and physical abuse. It drew me in from the beginning and kept my interest throughout. The author captures the fear that Anna must have felt at the hands of her abuser and then whilst in the hospital beautifully.
December 26, 2024
Brilliant read.
This story teaches us what abuse looks like and how easy it is to fall victim. I have empathy for Anna's character as I can relate to some of this story. I will be reading more of this authors books 📚❤️
This story teaches us what abuse looks like and how easy it is to fall victim. I have empathy for Anna's character as I can relate to some of this story. I will be reading more of this authors books 📚❤️
June 15, 2025
incredibly powerful
Well written, true and powerful. This resonated with me and my previous experiences, giving me insight into what had really happened when I’d been left confused.
Well written, true and powerful. This resonated with me and my previous experiences, giving me insight into what had really happened when I’d been left confused.
July 31, 2024
wow
What a wonderful book. I couldn’t put it down. It made me laugh, mad me cry , took me back to the same place I was in once. A truly sensational book. Thank you
What a wonderful book. I couldn’t put it down. It made me laugh, mad me cry , took me back to the same place I was in once. A truly sensational book. Thank you
August 10, 2024
excellent
A very well written book about physical and mental abuse and why people stay for so long . I really enjoyed this book
A very well written book about physical and mental abuse and why people stay for so long . I really enjoyed this book
July 5, 2018
Anna Bright suffers from "locked-in" syndrome. She can hear everyone in her hospital room, but has no ability to move or communicate with the outside world. Machines keep her alive. Everyone who visits her is convinced that she became this way during a murder attempt by her boyfriend, James.
But this is not really true - she actually did slip and fall and hit her head on the toilet in a hotel room! James faces prison time. Anna faces a life of "nothing", missing her teaching job, friends and family. Although James did not directly cause her to hit her head, their relationship went from something great to something dark and toxic.
Anna met James through her best friend's brother. They went out - he showered her with gifts, expensive hotels and meals.
Dylan, who Anna went out with before James was the light & love of her life. She met Dylan at uni and it was love at first sight. After 6 years together, they were planning their wedding when Dylan was killed in a motorcycle accident. Had she recovered from this tragedy?
Meanwhile, Anna had improved to a point where she could see and do the hand squeeze to answer
questions. It didn't last except Pam, a nurse no one liked, was on to the fact that James wasn't directly at fault. However, she never told anyone.
Every step that James took from friend to abuser should have told Anna to GET OUT! He was awful - the reader will feel the anger and pain reading about their relationship after she moved in with him. Additionally, his parents were not supportive to Anna.
Eventually Anna's condition has deteriorated, Actually to the point when she needed CPR. Friends and family gathered at the hospital, "she would have loved that", "...do you know what her favorite song was"?
It certainly looks grim for Anna - also for James. (By this time no one really cares about him).
Pam, the "mean" nurse confides in Anna (as Anna can only hear her)…
And the fireworks begin! A truly mind blowing conclusion that you won't see coming! This book is definitely a MUST READ!!!
Many thanks to 3P Publishing and NetGalley for a wonderful roller coaster ride!!!!!
But this is not really true - she actually did slip and fall and hit her head on the toilet in a hotel room! James faces prison time. Anna faces a life of "nothing", missing her teaching job, friends and family. Although James did not directly cause her to hit her head, their relationship went from something great to something dark and toxic.
Anna met James through her best friend's brother. They went out - he showered her with gifts, expensive hotels and meals.
Dylan, who Anna went out with before James was the light & love of her life. She met Dylan at uni and it was love at first sight. After 6 years together, they were planning their wedding when Dylan was killed in a motorcycle accident. Had she recovered from this tragedy?
Meanwhile, Anna had improved to a point where she could see and do the hand squeeze to answer
questions. It didn't last except Pam, a nurse no one liked, was on to the fact that James wasn't directly at fault. However, she never told anyone.
Every step that James took from friend to abuser should have told Anna to GET OUT! He was awful - the reader will feel the anger and pain reading about their relationship after she moved in with him. Additionally, his parents were not supportive to Anna.
Eventually Anna's condition has deteriorated, Actually to the point when she needed CPR. Friends and family gathered at the hospital, "she would have loved that", "...do you know what her favorite song was"?
It certainly looks grim for Anna - also for James. (By this time no one really cares about him).
Pam, the "mean" nurse confides in Anna (as Anna can only hear her)…
And the fireworks begin! A truly mind blowing conclusion that you won't see coming! This book is definitely a MUST READ!!!
Many thanks to 3P Publishing and NetGalley for a wonderful roller coaster ride!!!!!
June 28, 2018
Thank you NetGalley and 3p Publishing for letting me read Silencing Anna by Sadie Mitchell for an honest review. All opinions are my own!
My first time reading Sadie Mitchell, I don't regret it! Good job!
One word to describe it : WOW!
Anna is in a coma, this is her life before and during that time. You get to know her, her life, people in it, things that happened...
It's deep, moving! Well written! I was hooked from page 1! I couldn't put it down, I wanted to know more!
Warning : about abuse, violence...
I will read more by this author!
Review shared online on NetGalley, Twitter, Goodreads, Amazon when published.
3p Publishing now on my favorite list, I will request more and hope to get approved again! Thank you!
My first time reading Sadie Mitchell, I don't regret it! Good job!
One word to describe it : WOW!
Anna is in a coma, this is her life before and during that time. You get to know her, her life, people in it, things that happened...
It's deep, moving! Well written! I was hooked from page 1! I couldn't put it down, I wanted to know more!
Warning : about abuse, violence...
I will read more by this author!
Review shared online on NetGalley, Twitter, Goodreads, Amazon when published.
3p Publishing now on my favorite list, I will request more and hope to get approved again! Thank you!
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