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Mute
“I read a lot of books, a lot of great books, but once in a while I read a truly amazing book and Mute was one of those. Mute changed me, it spoke to my soul and I will never be the same.” Can you get by for an hour without talking? A day even? What about a month? Or nine? Rebecca Marley sets herself a nine-month challenge with only one She isn’t allowed to communicate with anyone. She is to become mute. How hard could it be? Yet, what starts as a challenge, soon becomes a journey of self-discovery as Rebecca has only herself for company. Will this time be the peaceful respite she so desperately seeks? Or will she confront aspects of herself that a noisy world hides so well? Faced with love and heartache, she soon learns to find solace in silence.
- GenresContemporary
312 pages, Paperback
First published January 29, 2018
11 people are currently reading
89 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
May 29, 2018
The idea behind this book intrigued me. What if a sensitive magazine writer took a time-out from the social world and became voluntarily mute for 9 months? The concept was very well-executed with the reader privy to both Rebecca’s private thoughts and her published journal entries in the magazine. I liked Rebecca’s insights and personal growth as we were able to take this journey along with her. Most of us don’t have the luxury of doing the experiment like she did but we can follow along her path of self-exploration and learn more about ourselves. Not only that, it is a fun read and you can laugh along with Rebecca’s mishaps and relationship entanglements.
Mute is a free NetGalley book which I received in May 2018.
Mute is a free NetGalley book which I received in May 2018.
November 17, 2020
3 stars
This was an especially timely book to read during quarantine/pandemic as we are all forced to learn who we are without the everyday hustle and bustle of "normal" life. It's an amazing lesson to really dig deep and learn what makes you happy.
This was an especially timely book to read during quarantine/pandemic as we are all forced to learn who we are without the everyday hustle and bustle of "normal" life. It's an amazing lesson to really dig deep and learn what makes you happy.
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May 17, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (5/17/2019)! 🎁
May 7, 2020
Rebecca challenges herself and does an experiment to not talk for 9 months.
Not even answering in written form like e-mails (except it's work related) or on social media. The world gets to read about her journey in articles of a monthly magazine for which she is working.
And so begins her self-discovering journey.
The writing was great for a debut novel. I loved the character developments and how the story/challenge unfolds. It's very interesting to see how she changes. I'd have liked to read more about her thought processes while she was self-reflecting though.
The reactions from people when she didn't talk were accurate. It's astonishing to see how people take it personally when one doesn't respond. It seems like an unwritten rule in society, that you have to respond or otherwise you're rude or stupid. Who's actually saying that? The story let's you see things differently.
Also there were some twists I did not expect.
I don't know if I should be mad or not about the cliffhanger at the end :P I'll for sure read the sequel.
Not even answering in written form like e-mails (except it's work related) or on social media. The world gets to read about her journey in articles of a monthly magazine for which she is working.
And so begins her self-discovering journey.
The writing was great for a debut novel. I loved the character developments and how the story/challenge unfolds. It's very interesting to see how she changes. I'd have liked to read more about her thought processes while she was self-reflecting though.
The reactions from people when she didn't talk were accurate. It's astonishing to see how people take it personally when one doesn't respond. It seems like an unwritten rule in society, that you have to respond or otherwise you're rude or stupid. Who's actually saying that? The story let's you see things differently.
Also there were some twists I did not expect.
I don't know if I should be mad or not about the cliffhanger at the end :P I'll for sure read the sequel.
May 21, 2018
What happens when you feel things more than others do, and you see the crap of the world? What if it is the people who you cannot stand? What if you are not equipped to deal with the world? Have you ever felt the need for a time-out? A time-out from the world?
This is what Rebecca Marley feels. She works for a famous magazine, called LifeStyle and is one of the best the magazine has ever had.
However, she decides that she wants a break – from life!
If given an opportunity, would you take a year off from life?
Rebecca’s editor, Bubbles, uses this as an innovative thought process to give a new twist to their magazine. She agrees to let Rebecca do what she wants – that is remain MUTE, but for a period of 9 months (as opposed to a year). In the whole period, she will send diary journals to her, describing her situation and how she is coping with it.
She is not allowed to speak to anyone, except for an emergency and there is limited social media and email interaction to happen as well.
As Rebecca embarks on her journey, she realizes the challenges she faces and how different the whole situation is. Her thoughts take precedence, over her words. Her emotions and nerves run raw.
As she cocoons herself away, she cannot help but wonder that how does one always manage to do everything on schedule? Didn’t life, circumstances, and emotions get in the way sometimes?
As her life unfolds before us, the past and the present, told from her viewpoint, you do realise one very important and significant thing:
Each person has a problem that is big only to them. No matter how vast the world is, and no matter how many bad things happen to those around you, no problem will ever seem as great as the one you are dealing with yourself.
Brilliantly written with a fantastic, fresh and unique concept, this was one of the best reads for me this year.
If I could, I would rate it more 5/5.
This is what Rebecca Marley feels. She works for a famous magazine, called LifeStyle and is one of the best the magazine has ever had.
However, she decides that she wants a break – from life!
If given an opportunity, would you take a year off from life?
Rebecca’s editor, Bubbles, uses this as an innovative thought process to give a new twist to their magazine. She agrees to let Rebecca do what she wants – that is remain MUTE, but for a period of 9 months (as opposed to a year). In the whole period, she will send diary journals to her, describing her situation and how she is coping with it.
She is not allowed to speak to anyone, except for an emergency and there is limited social media and email interaction to happen as well.
As Rebecca embarks on her journey, she realizes the challenges she faces and how different the whole situation is. Her thoughts take precedence, over her words. Her emotions and nerves run raw.
As she cocoons herself away, she cannot help but wonder that how does one always manage to do everything on schedule? Didn’t life, circumstances, and emotions get in the way sometimes?
As her life unfolds before us, the past and the present, told from her viewpoint, you do realise one very important and significant thing:
Each person has a problem that is big only to them. No matter how vast the world is, and no matter how many bad things happen to those around you, no problem will ever seem as great as the one you are dealing with yourself.
Brilliantly written with a fantastic, fresh and unique concept, this was one of the best reads for me this year.
If I could, I would rate it more 5/5.
November 12, 2019
Insightful and Poignant
The premise of this novel fascinated me. I certainly wouldn’t mind not having to talk to anyone for a long period of time. I initially wondered how a novel could be sustained when the main character (Rebecca) voluntarily gives up talking for nine months.
The story unfolds quite well. Rebecca is an insightful observer of both her own inner struggles as well as the world around her. I appreciated learning that I am not the only person bothered by the habits and behaviors of others (e.g., loud chewers). It was also interesting learning about her life through her memories (including recalled conversations). The growth she experiences throughout the novel is realistic and poignant.
If you are an introvert, an HSP, or just need time away from people, you will enjoy the story and relate to the main character. 
Favorite quote. “Fifteen minutes (into the run), my audio player died on me, leaving me with no distractions. All I had for the rest of my run were my own thoughts - a dangerous place to be.”
The audiobook narrator was new to me and she did seem to become Rebecca. But at times the pitch of her voice changed and this was a bit distracting. There are other “young” readers I would have preferred, such as Brittany Pressley.
Overall, an awesome book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
The premise of this novel fascinated me. I certainly wouldn’t mind not having to talk to anyone for a long period of time. I initially wondered how a novel could be sustained when the main character (Rebecca) voluntarily gives up talking for nine months.
The story unfolds quite well. Rebecca is an insightful observer of both her own inner struggles as well as the world around her. I appreciated learning that I am not the only person bothered by the habits and behaviors of others (e.g., loud chewers). It was also interesting learning about her life through her memories (including recalled conversations). The growth she experiences throughout the novel is realistic and poignant.
If you are an introvert, an HSP, or just need time away from people, you will enjoy the story and relate to the main character. 
Favorite quote. “Fifteen minutes (into the run), my audio player died on me, leaving me with no distractions. All I had for the rest of my run were my own thoughts - a dangerous place to be.”
The audiobook narrator was new to me and she did seem to become Rebecca. But at times the pitch of her voice changed and this was a bit distracting. There are other “young” readers I would have preferred, such as Brittany Pressley.
Overall, an awesome book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
February 2, 2018
HOW DO I ADD MORE STARS???????
I read a lot of books, a lot of great books, but once in a while I read a truly amazing book and Mute was one of those. Mute changed me, it spoke to my soul and I will never be the same.
Christine has this unique way of writing that makes me feel like she is in my head, reading my mind. The main character, Rebecca, is me, she has the same thoughts and fears as me, the same desires and insecurities.
This book is officially in my top 5 ever.
I cannot recommend it enough. READ THIS BOOK!!!!!!!!!!
I read a lot of books, a lot of great books, but once in a while I read a truly amazing book and Mute was one of those. Mute changed me, it spoke to my soul and I will never be the same.
Christine has this unique way of writing that makes me feel like she is in my head, reading my mind. The main character, Rebecca, is me, she has the same thoughts and fears as me, the same desires and insecurities.
This book is officially in my top 5 ever.
I cannot recommend it enough. READ THIS BOOK!!!!!!!!!!
Read
February 11, 2018This one's pegged as a "can't rate because I edited" ... I found it difficult to believe this is one of Christine's first completed novels. When I was giving this a once-over, I had wondered how on earth anyone could engage me with the premise – a person who decides to take a vow of silence – but I was hooked from start to finish. To the point where I nearly forgot I was supposed to be the editor. So I guess that says something.
June 1, 2018
I was drawn to this book because of the idea of staying silent for nine months was nothing short of brave for me. Reading this book and getting Rebecca Marley's outlook on her life, struggles and writing was a thrill. The author's simple writing style also makes this an enjoyable read.
I received an eARC of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review and if you are into quirky, fresh and thrilling characters then you'd love this.
I received an eARC of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review and if you are into quirky, fresh and thrilling characters then you'd love this.
May 21, 2019
A book that makes you think.
Seriously enjoyed this one, despite not being my usual genre. The concept is so cool and really makes you think about the power and value of words.
Rebecca is a great, well-rounded character. I felt so connected to her, and related to so many aspects of her personality.
I can't wait to read Haze.
Seriously enjoyed this one, despite not being my usual genre. The concept is so cool and really makes you think about the power and value of words.
Rebecca is a great, well-rounded character. I felt so connected to her, and related to so many aspects of her personality.
I can't wait to read Haze.
June 3, 2020
Here is an engaging read. It features a well realised and engaging protagonist who asks questions of herself that many of us ask or perhaps prefer not to ask of ourselves but do nothing about. The premise is interesting and its unfolding well handled. I found that I could barely put the book down. The conclusion neatly side-steps cliche. Thumbs up from me.
September 3, 2021
I really really really enjoyed this and the journey Rebecca went on through the book. Very touching and thought provoking and I feel like I read it at a good time in my life. I can definitely picture myself coming back to this book more than once.
January 31, 2020
I loved this! East to read yet thoughtful. Great book.
And now I want Gigabyte!
And now I want Gigabyte!
November 19, 2019
This is the first book that I've read by Christine Bernard and I really didn't know what to expect but this book was both engrossing and an easy read. It spoke to me, as I am an introvert at heart, but need people too. I could relate to the character as I have found myself at times going days where I have spoken to no one but the cat - times where that was perfect and I was happy in my bubble, and others where that was just an indication of the funk that I was in. I resonated with at times how loud the silence can be but then again how overwhelmingly loud the cacophony of the outside world is when you leave the peaceful silence. I wasn't, however, prepared for how the book ended and found I was left not only wanting more (as in further resolution) but had so many questions. I am glad that there is a sequel that I can turn to and find out the further adventures of Rebecca Marley. Do give the book a listen - it's definitely worth your time!
November 19, 2019
It was ok. I like parts of the story but I feel like it was unfinished. I have too many unanswered questions.
*** spoiler alert ***
Why do we not see her go and find Benjamin? Why leave Eddie in the coffee shop stunned and not say more? I’m glad she made up with her mom. That was nice. But I just feel as if there could have been more to the story. The narrator was good. The writing was good. I just needed more I guess.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 27, 2021
This was a great 'feel good' book. Numerous excerpts made me laugh, and some chapters really touched me or had me close to tears. I suppose it would fall under women's lit as it is focusing on the main character's identity and how this switches based on her challenge to not talk to anyone for 9 months. The magazine Rebecca worked for was LifeStyle, which in Australia is home to plenty of trashy tabloid type stories, but occasionally there's surprisingly wholesome stories in there too. "Mute" would be one of the wholesome ones. As some other reviews have mentioned, it is perfect read for lock down.
Even though Rebecca is the main focus of the story, a lot of insight is gained about the other major figures in her life - such as her parents, her boss, her crush, and some old school friends. I could relate to her introverted nature. The writing was succinct, with witty dialogue and great descriptions. I particularly found narration about how some people were chewing too loudly, and the woes of a salad spinner, to be particularly hilarious. Her family trouble was incredibly moving as well.
I can't really fault the book and I would give 5/5 if not for one thing - the ending broke my heart. I won't spoil but yeah, it got me right in the feels. Maybe that should be a reason for me to give it 5/5, but I'm a romantic at heart and it seemed a little too on the depressing side for me.
Highly recommended.
Even though Rebecca is the main focus of the story, a lot of insight is gained about the other major figures in her life - such as her parents, her boss, her crush, and some old school friends. I could relate to her introverted nature. The writing was succinct, with witty dialogue and great descriptions. I particularly found narration about how some people were chewing too loudly, and the woes of a salad spinner, to be particularly hilarious. Her family trouble was incredibly moving as well.
I can't really fault the book and I would give 5/5 if not for one thing - the ending broke my heart. I won't spoil but yeah, it got me right in the feels. Maybe that should be a reason for me to give it 5/5, but I'm a romantic at heart and it seemed a little too on the depressing side for me.
Highly recommended.
April 2, 2018
This was, in my opinion, streets ahead of Unravel - the other of Christine Bernard's books that I've read.
I felt that Mute flowed so much more smoothly than Unravel, and that the characters were far more real and relatable.
I felt myself equal parts inspired and puzzled by Rebecca's self-imposed challenge.
I wasn't really sure about the mental health issues, nor about the significance of Rebecca's parents' relationship to her decision to embark on this journey, but I was enthralled with the idea of the challenge itself, and found that the bulk of Rebecca's thoughts on the experience resonated for me on some level.
** I am fortunate enough to be on this author's ARC team.
I felt that Mute flowed so much more smoothly than Unravel, and that the characters were far more real and relatable.
I felt myself equal parts inspired and puzzled by Rebecca's self-imposed challenge.
I wasn't really sure about the mental health issues, nor about the significance of Rebecca's parents' relationship to her decision to embark on this journey, but I was enthralled with the idea of the challenge itself, and found that the bulk of Rebecca's thoughts on the experience resonated for me on some level.
** I am fortunate enough to be on this author's ARC team.
September 21, 2021
Really loved this book! Rebecca the MC was so likeable and funny! There was so many times I actually laughed out loud but also some sad moments too. Great, clever idea and I seriously could not put it down!
Sent to me for free by boolarong Press in exchange for an honest review. Honestly highly recommended!!
Sent to me for free by boolarong Press in exchange for an honest review. Honestly highly recommended!!
February 1, 2021
Mute, by Christine Bernard, follows the journey of thirty something Rebecca Marley, who after suffering an existential crises, embarks on a challenge to not speak for nine months and her musings about how this experience may change her. The challenge includes no communication through social media and other social media platforms. A big ask for any millennial – but something that most of us - I think - deep down yearn for (or is that just me?). Working for a high profile magazine, her boss is keen to chronicle Rebecca’s journey through a series of published stories in the magazine, which provides a medium for conveying the power of words.
What starts as a spontaneous proposal to not speak or engage with social media, for a year, which is subsequently pared back to 9 months by Rebecca’s work colleague, whom she affectionately calls ‘Bubbles”, after discussing the sheer enormity of such a challenge, quickly becomes a journey, of reflection, self discovery, and a commitment to healing through exercise and investing in meaningful friendships (even if this is with a cat), and reconciling child formed perspectives with renewed understanding as an adult, capturing that moment when a child sees their parent as a person. The act of rescuing a seemingly unlovable cross-eyed cat who dislikes people from the local pet store, sees Rebecca take on responsibility and unconditional friendship and is perhaps a metaphor for rescuing ones- self through caring for another being. The relationship with Fluffy/Gigabyte is the part that resonated with me the most. In this world where relationships are mostly housed online, I have also found that the most meaningful connections in my life are from animals – who love you unconditionally. I thought this was the strongest element of the book by far (I also have a cross-eyed rescue cat so I may be biased!)
The story is a light touch on mental health issues, the role of self reflection, and the importance of healthy relationships, connectedness and the benefits of exercise, and mindfulness (timely in this pandemic world). I read it really quickly, I think in about 2 days. I would recommend it for a casual summer read or a lazy lockdown weekend!
Thank you to Boolarong Press for this copy in exchange for an honest review.
What starts as a spontaneous proposal to not speak or engage with social media, for a year, which is subsequently pared back to 9 months by Rebecca’s work colleague, whom she affectionately calls ‘Bubbles”, after discussing the sheer enormity of such a challenge, quickly becomes a journey, of reflection, self discovery, and a commitment to healing through exercise and investing in meaningful friendships (even if this is with a cat), and reconciling child formed perspectives with renewed understanding as an adult, capturing that moment when a child sees their parent as a person. The act of rescuing a seemingly unlovable cross-eyed cat who dislikes people from the local pet store, sees Rebecca take on responsibility and unconditional friendship and is perhaps a metaphor for rescuing ones- self through caring for another being. The relationship with Fluffy/Gigabyte is the part that resonated with me the most. In this world where relationships are mostly housed online, I have also found that the most meaningful connections in my life are from animals – who love you unconditionally. I thought this was the strongest element of the book by far (I also have a cross-eyed rescue cat so I may be biased!)
The story is a light touch on mental health issues, the role of self reflection, and the importance of healthy relationships, connectedness and the benefits of exercise, and mindfulness (timely in this pandemic world). I read it really quickly, I think in about 2 days. I would recommend it for a casual summer read or a lazy lockdown weekend!
Thank you to Boolarong Press for this copy in exchange for an honest review.
September 19, 2021
Once in a while, it is a treat to find yourself enjoying an unexpected book. There are books that one knows their reaction to based on any previous books by the author and some (many) times by the cover. When both of those fail to guide the reader in a good way, it is a cause for excitement.
This was one such book for me. I was so invested that I actually found myself looking up ways to get my hands on the next book (given that the first in the series was originally released in 2018). I found the second on KU and read it almost at the heels of the first. But, I am getting ahead of myself. I should first talk about the content of the book. We have Rebecca Marley, who works for a magazine, in an important role. She likes only two people in her workplace in extremely different ways and is in a bad mood when she is introduced and the scene is set. Things spiral to such a point that Rebecca takes a vow of silence. This is not just silence though, it is the lack of actual communication unless it is an emergency (or required updates of her life for the magazine).
The challenge seems simple enough to the reader and to Rebecca herself until the days start to blur. Given the pandemic and lockdowns that many people faced, quite a few without family or very close friends on hand will surely empathize(even if it is just a self-planned challenge in this narrative) with how the mind plays tricks.
Rebecca is not a happy, satisfied individual, she is troubled in mild ways, but the silence makes her question a lot of things. I would not have bought into the explanations of how Rebecca felt during the period if it was all dark or all light and fluffy. The mix of the two, as well as the past and once or twice the future, intrudes to add something to the narrative.
I would not have assumed there would be much to add in the sequel except to draw out a romantic entanglement, but that was a surprise as well.
I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publishers and the review is solely based on my reading experience (and maybe the concept of lockdowns).
This was one such book for me. I was so invested that I actually found myself looking up ways to get my hands on the next book (given that the first in the series was originally released in 2018). I found the second on KU and read it almost at the heels of the first. But, I am getting ahead of myself. I should first talk about the content of the book. We have Rebecca Marley, who works for a magazine, in an important role. She likes only two people in her workplace in extremely different ways and is in a bad mood when she is introduced and the scene is set. Things spiral to such a point that Rebecca takes a vow of silence. This is not just silence though, it is the lack of actual communication unless it is an emergency (or required updates of her life for the magazine).
The challenge seems simple enough to the reader and to Rebecca herself until the days start to blur. Given the pandemic and lockdowns that many people faced, quite a few without family or very close friends on hand will surely empathize(even if it is just a self-planned challenge in this narrative) with how the mind plays tricks.
Rebecca is not a happy, satisfied individual, she is troubled in mild ways, but the silence makes her question a lot of things. I would not have bought into the explanations of how Rebecca felt during the period if it was all dark or all light and fluffy. The mix of the two, as well as the past and once or twice the future, intrudes to add something to the narrative.
I would not have assumed there would be much to add in the sequel except to draw out a romantic entanglement, but that was a surprise as well.
I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publishers and the review is solely based on my reading experience (and maybe the concept of lockdowns).
February 21, 2018
I enjoyed the previous 2 books by this author. Mute was quite different in that it is not a mystery and there is no villain as such.
Rebecca is a journalist working for a popular magazine, and she is feeling totally overwhelmed and just wants it all to stop. So, on the spur of the moment, she persuades her boss to let her spend 9 months being mute while writing about the experience.
As Rebecca starts her time without human interaction, she finds some relief as well as some loneliness, lots of time to think and sort out her feelings. After a while we begin to see the childhood issues that started her on this path, and it becomes easier to understand her wish to experience silence and peace.
I can understand this wish. We are bombarded with words, opinions, information and pressure in today’s world. Many times, I wish I could step off the wheel for a while and just sit in a silent corner somewhere.
Aside from that, the book also reinforced the power of words, be it too many words, the wrong words, the lack of words. While we can quote ‘sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never harm me’, this is not really true, because words can hurt us. A careless comment can affect your entire view of yourself. A child’s future can be shaped by a comment.
I realized that there could not possibly be a big revelation at the end of this book, one that could lead us all to happiness. Instead the revelation belongs to Rebecca, as she repairs relationships and comes to understand herself a bit more.
I enjoyed the story tremendously, it spoke to me, being a not so sociable person myself. It also reminded me again how what we say can affect someone very deeply, and to be a little more careful in choosing our words.
Rebecca is a journalist working for a popular magazine, and she is feeling totally overwhelmed and just wants it all to stop. So, on the spur of the moment, she persuades her boss to let her spend 9 months being mute while writing about the experience.
As Rebecca starts her time without human interaction, she finds some relief as well as some loneliness, lots of time to think and sort out her feelings. After a while we begin to see the childhood issues that started her on this path, and it becomes easier to understand her wish to experience silence and peace.
I can understand this wish. We are bombarded with words, opinions, information and pressure in today’s world. Many times, I wish I could step off the wheel for a while and just sit in a silent corner somewhere.
Aside from that, the book also reinforced the power of words, be it too many words, the wrong words, the lack of words. While we can quote ‘sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never harm me’, this is not really true, because words can hurt us. A careless comment can affect your entire view of yourself. A child’s future can be shaped by a comment.
I realized that there could not possibly be a big revelation at the end of this book, one that could lead us all to happiness. Instead the revelation belongs to Rebecca, as she repairs relationships and comes to understand herself a bit more.
I enjoyed the story tremendously, it spoke to me, being a not so sociable person myself. It also reminded me again how what we say can affect someone very deeply, and to be a little more careful in choosing our words.
February 5, 2018
This is proving to be a very tricky book for me to rate, here's hoping this review will help me make some sense out of my thoughts on it.
As usual life is very hard for a character in a Christine Bernard book. And in this book it's a hard life brought on entirely by the character. Both Unravelled and Will had other people/forces at play...whereas here in Mute Rebecca decided on this course of silence. And while it may seem that there are some previously unknown mental health concerns at play in how Rebecca sees herself and the world, that's not what drove her to and maintaining the silence.
There were many a time when I was ready to reach into the book and smack Rebecca upside the head, she was just so self-involved - but that in of itself is a statement on the ways in which we all our self-involved.
The gradual painting of Rebecca, in what shaped her and the regrets that remained with her...one would be hard pressed to not see some aspect of themselves. Her parents relationship, is presented in such a way, that while Rebecca is the one who tells us about it all, the emotion is not this heavy blob that blurs out all subtlety and nuance to it all.
Throughout the read though, we're left with so many unanswered questions. And it's all of these unanswered questions that keep on circling my mind, and is why I can't give this a 5 star rating. Because while life has many unanswered questions fiction doesn't need that.
And yes, Rebecca comes to a great life realisation and this is a slice of life for her...but I really, really want to know more.
*I'm a lucky fish and on the authors ARC team*
As usual life is very hard for a character in a Christine Bernard book. And in this book it's a hard life brought on entirely by the character. Both Unravelled and Will had other people/forces at play...whereas here in Mute Rebecca decided on this course of silence. And while it may seem that there are some previously unknown mental health concerns at play in how Rebecca sees herself and the world, that's not what drove her to and maintaining the silence.
There were many a time when I was ready to reach into the book and smack Rebecca upside the head, she was just so self-involved - but that in of itself is a statement on the ways in which we all our self-involved.
The gradual painting of Rebecca, in what shaped her and the regrets that remained with her...one would be hard pressed to not see some aspect of themselves. Her parents relationship, is presented in such a way, that while Rebecca is the one who tells us about it all, the emotion is not this heavy blob that blurs out all subtlety and nuance to it all.
Throughout the read though, we're left with so many unanswered questions. And it's all of these unanswered questions that keep on circling my mind, and is why I can't give this a 5 star rating. Because while life has many unanswered questions fiction doesn't need that.
And yes, Rebecca comes to a great life realisation and this is a slice of life for her...but I really, really want to know more.
*I'm a lucky fish and on the authors ARC team*
May 10, 2020
That was amazing!
As you know, much of the world is living under various restrictions to help deal with the global COVID-19 pandemic. As I sit here typing this on 10 May 2020, South Africa is on the forty-fifth day of our own lockdown.
When she wrote this, there’s no way Mrs Bernard could have predicted the pandemic, but a “lockdown” of sorts is exactly what the protagonist inflicts upon herself.
The premise is fascinating (made even more so by the time in which I read it), and the issues Rebecca goes through are just so believable. I identified with it way more than I thought I would, but I guess that’s probably because I’ve wanted to do exactly what she does, more than once in my life.
When I first started reading Mute, I remember saying to my online book club that I thought it weird this book was in the “Women’s Fiction” category. I said I was only 20% in, but Rebecca hadn’t yet gone through anything I thought was specific to women.
Well, I was wrong: by the time I hit 30% or so, some challenges she was facing were pretty specific to her femininity. Not that it mattered; I enjoyed it just fine, as a man. In fact, I think I might have a bit of a “women’s fiction” guilty pleasure, because I find it helps me learn and see things from the other half’s perspective... and every man could do with a better understanding of what makes women tick! This stuff is important, guys. #EducateYourself ;)
Click here to find out where you can get your hands on a copy: https://books2read.com/u/3k17jL
* Note: That's an affiliate link, so if you click through to a store and end up buying anything, I might earn a commission from your purchase.
As you know, much of the world is living under various restrictions to help deal with the global COVID-19 pandemic. As I sit here typing this on 10 May 2020, South Africa is on the forty-fifth day of our own lockdown.
When she wrote this, there’s no way Mrs Bernard could have predicted the pandemic, but a “lockdown” of sorts is exactly what the protagonist inflicts upon herself.
The premise is fascinating (made even more so by the time in which I read it), and the issues Rebecca goes through are just so believable. I identified with it way more than I thought I would, but I guess that’s probably because I’ve wanted to do exactly what she does, more than once in my life.
When I first started reading Mute, I remember saying to my online book club that I thought it weird this book was in the “Women’s Fiction” category. I said I was only 20% in, but Rebecca hadn’t yet gone through anything I thought was specific to women.
Well, I was wrong: by the time I hit 30% or so, some challenges she was facing were pretty specific to her femininity. Not that it mattered; I enjoyed it just fine, as a man. In fact, I think I might have a bit of a “women’s fiction” guilty pleasure, because I find it helps me learn and see things from the other half’s perspective... and every man could do with a better understanding of what makes women tick! This stuff is important, guys. #EducateYourself ;)
Click here to find out where you can get your hands on a copy: https://books2read.com/u/3k17jL
* Note: That's an affiliate link, so if you click through to a store and end up buying anything, I might earn a commission from your purchase.
September 28, 2022
5 stars,
THE STORY
So, what this book is about, THE POV is Rebecca, who basically has a meltdown at work (she’s a writer) and comes up with this CRAZY idea, that she takes a year away from the world, it eventually goes down to 9 months, she is muted, she will not speak, write, interact, to anyone, including family, so rest of stuff I want to put down may contain spoilers, I don’t want this review marked for spoilers, so everyone can read it!
THE REVIEW
So, at the start, I think it could have been better if like the first chapter called ‘before’ didn’t give away the ending (MINOR SPOILER: that she finished) Like there could have been a little mystery, but around chapter 2 it seemed a little.... crazy, I didn’t touch it for a few days but I never want to DNF a book, so I pushed, and around chapter 8, it got better, and I could easily read around I think it’s about above 100 pages in a few hours, so this is now one of my favourite reads, I might re read a couple more times, 2 favourite reads so far, more than friends, and mute, At the end it was like it felt like it was real, but as once quoted “You Know You’ve Read A Good Book When You Turn The Last Page And Feel A Little As If You Have Lost A Friend” like I highly recommend, it’s a contemporary novel, like I’m hoping there’s a sequel I need to quickly check
But thanks to boolarong press for the review copy!
THE STORY
So, what this book is about, THE POV is Rebecca, who basically has a meltdown at work (she’s a writer) and comes up with this CRAZY idea, that she takes a year away from the world, it eventually goes down to 9 months, she is muted, she will not speak, write, interact, to anyone, including family, so rest of stuff I want to put down may contain spoilers, I don’t want this review marked for spoilers, so everyone can read it!
THE REVIEW
So, at the start, I think it could have been better if like the first chapter called ‘before’ didn’t give away the ending (MINOR SPOILER: that she finished) Like there could have been a little mystery, but around chapter 2 it seemed a little.... crazy, I didn’t touch it for a few days but I never want to DNF a book, so I pushed, and around chapter 8, it got better, and I could easily read around I think it’s about above 100 pages in a few hours, so this is now one of my favourite reads, I might re read a couple more times, 2 favourite reads so far, more than friends, and mute, At the end it was like it felt like it was real, but as once quoted “You Know You’ve Read A Good Book When You Turn The Last Page And Feel A Little As If You Have Lost A Friend” like I highly recommend, it’s a contemporary novel, like I’m hoping there’s a sequel I need to quickly check
But thanks to boolarong press for the review copy!
February 22, 2022
Blurb: Is it possible to live in the world without speech? How much would you change if you had to live only in your head?
Now, I am not the biggest chatterbox in the world, nor would I consider myself a chatterbox at all ( husband would disagree 😅) but to not talk at all (by choice), well! That is an entirely different prospect. I am pretty sure I could do it for a while but I do enjoy a good sing along (badly) after a few glasses of bubbles.😅
This is what our lead character Rebecca Marley does though. She embarks on a 9 month self-induced silent challenge, even reducing social network interactions etc.
What a fabulous idea for a book! This was really interesting, especially if you put yourself in her shoes and think about all the things she has to deal with on a daily basis. There are a few moments that I personally didn't agree with her choices but that's ok. There was an hilarious moment where I laughed and thought: Yep, that would be me!
I read this book in a day, it really was an easy, well thought out book that certainly got my brain thinking. Huge thanks to @christinebernardauthor who sent me a few of her books in a giveaway. Read this if you want a book to give your brain a little silent challenge ir if you are in a reading lull, or anytime really. 😀
Now, I am not the biggest chatterbox in the world, nor would I consider myself a chatterbox at all ( husband would disagree 😅) but to not talk at all (by choice), well! That is an entirely different prospect. I am pretty sure I could do it for a while but I do enjoy a good sing along (badly) after a few glasses of bubbles.😅
This is what our lead character Rebecca Marley does though. She embarks on a 9 month self-induced silent challenge, even reducing social network interactions etc.
What a fabulous idea for a book! This was really interesting, especially if you put yourself in her shoes and think about all the things she has to deal with on a daily basis. There are a few moments that I personally didn't agree with her choices but that's ok. There was an hilarious moment where I laughed and thought: Yep, that would be me!
I read this book in a day, it really was an easy, well thought out book that certainly got my brain thinking. Huge thanks to @christinebernardauthor who sent me a few of her books in a giveaway. Read this if you want a book to give your brain a little silent challenge ir if you are in a reading lull, or anytime really. 😀
February 11, 2019
I finished this book a few days ago and while I wanted to leave a review, I wasn't sure what else to say except WOW!
*This review may contain spoilers*
I think this book is fantastic. I read somewhere that Christine liked to write books which made people think and that's what she did for me with this book.
I could relate to the main character. We have all felt so overwhelmed that not being a part of society sounded like a better idea. I think that's easy to do for someone who is a hermit but we do forget the importance of connection in today's time.
The book stirred a bit of hurt in my heart for the portrayal of the father daughter relationship that Rebecca (the main character) shares. I know what that feels like and I had to take a few breaths to compose myself with those parts.
In all honestly, it's an amazing book. It WILL make you think and I also believe that you will be able to relate to the main character, just as I did. It is written fantastically and you'll find yourself devouring it in record time.
Thank you Christine for writing this book and giving me a copy. I wish I had the words to describe all the ways this book made me feel.
*This review may contain spoilers*
I think this book is fantastic. I read somewhere that Christine liked to write books which made people think and that's what she did for me with this book.
I could relate to the main character. We have all felt so overwhelmed that not being a part of society sounded like a better idea. I think that's easy to do for someone who is a hermit but we do forget the importance of connection in today's time.
The book stirred a bit of hurt in my heart for the portrayal of the father daughter relationship that Rebecca (the main character) shares. I know what that feels like and I had to take a few breaths to compose myself with those parts.
In all honestly, it's an amazing book. It WILL make you think and I also believe that you will be able to relate to the main character, just as I did. It is written fantastically and you'll find yourself devouring it in record time.
Thank you Christine for writing this book and giving me a copy. I wish I had the words to describe all the ways this book made me feel.
December 2, 2019
I had really mixed feelings about this one. I didn't know much about it before I picked it up so I didn't know that the 'muteness'- (is that even a word? ) was down to a magazine stunt. It meant that the reason I'd selected the book no longer applied and I was instantly disappointed. Add that to the fact that I found the main character quite annoying - she was forcing me to live in her head and I really didn't want to be there! So at this point you're probably wondering why I gave it 4 stars...
What I liked about it was that on the surface it seems simple but it is really well written and if you really listen to what she is saying to herself there is a lot going on. I listened on Audible and the narrator was spot on.
Parts of it made me think about my own relationships particularly with people I don't know well and it made me rethink some of my own thoughts and feelings. I like books that continue to make you think after you finish them and this is definitely one of those.
I couldn't do 9 months as a mute but what I wouldn't give for one day a week of complete peace and silence!
What I liked about it was that on the surface it seems simple but it is really well written and if you really listen to what she is saying to herself there is a lot going on. I listened on Audible and the narrator was spot on.
Parts of it made me think about my own relationships particularly with people I don't know well and it made me rethink some of my own thoughts and feelings. I like books that continue to make you think after you finish them and this is definitely one of those.
I couldn't do 9 months as a mute but what I wouldn't give for one day a week of complete peace and silence!
October 28, 2019
AUDIOBOOK REVIEW
OK I found this audio great fun and a fascinating listen. I have often said I could happily become a hermit in my house with nothing but books and the radio for company but I think I would at least need to speak to the delivery drivers once I a while otherwise I’m all for this lol. However for Rebecca the nine month challenge of complete non communication ends up being harder and yet more rewarding than she ever imagined and maybe during the time she can finally discover her own truth and appreciate life for what it is. Would you really miss interaction and office life for example if you could fully escape to silence? This audio will get you thinking and the narrator has a beautiful tone which suited the story perfectly.
OK I found this audio great fun and a fascinating listen. I have often said I could happily become a hermit in my house with nothing but books and the radio for company but I think I would at least need to speak to the delivery drivers once I a while otherwise I’m all for this lol. However for Rebecca the nine month challenge of complete non communication ends up being harder and yet more rewarding than she ever imagined and maybe during the time she can finally discover her own truth and appreciate life for what it is. Would you really miss interaction and office life for example if you could fully escape to silence? This audio will get you thinking and the narrator has a beautiful tone which suited the story perfectly.
April 13, 2025
I have given Mute by Christine Bernard three out of five stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book had a very interesting concept; Rebecca, our main character, challenges herself to not talk for nine months. This is an experiment that benefits her current state of wanting to be alone however, will it make her feel more alone carrying out this experiment? A book about self-discovery and reflection that can really help to resonate with an audience.
I really enjoyed following along with Rebecca’s journey although at times I did find myself struggling to carry on due to the uncertainty of whether the book was going to turn into a thriller because the notes she started to receive came across a little creepy, although that wasn’t the case.
This book had a very interesting concept; Rebecca, our main character, challenges herself to not talk for nine months. This is an experiment that benefits her current state of wanting to be alone however, will it make her feel more alone carrying out this experiment? A book about self-discovery and reflection that can really help to resonate with an audience.
I really enjoyed following along with Rebecca’s journey although at times I did find myself struggling to carry on due to the uncertainty of whether the book was going to turn into a thriller because the notes she started to receive came across a little creepy, although that wasn’t the case.
February 1, 2018
Top Ten (Ever) Read
This book will challenge you. This book will make you evaluate your relationships with you family and friends. This book will give you the desire to live on your own without having to interact with other people and then this book will make you want to throw a permanent party and invite everyone you’ve ever met. I often wondered if Christine was reading my mind. Many of Rebecca’s thoughts are identical to what I have thought or imagined in the past and present. It was eerie how Christine wove a tale so real, yet so fantastic. I would recommend this book to all my friends. Like I said – Top Ten!
This book will challenge you. This book will make you evaluate your relationships with you family and friends. This book will give you the desire to live on your own without having to interact with other people and then this book will make you want to throw a permanent party and invite everyone you’ve ever met. I often wondered if Christine was reading my mind. Many of Rebecca’s thoughts are identical to what I have thought or imagined in the past and present. It was eerie how Christine wove a tale so real, yet so fantastic. I would recommend this book to all my friends. Like I said – Top Ten!
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