What do you think?
Rate this book
Silent Sin
When tailor Marvin Gottschalk abandoned New York City for the brash boomtown of silent-film-era Hollywood, he never imagined he’d end up on screen as Martin Brentwood, one of the fledgling film industry’s most popular actors. Five years later a cynical Martin despairs of finding anything genuine in a town where truth is defined by studio politics and publicity. Then he meets Robbie Goodman.
Robbie fled Idaho after a run-in with the law. A chance encounter leads him to the film studio where he lands a job as a chauffeur. But one look at Martin and he’s convinced he’s likely to run afoul of those same laws—laws that brand his desires indecent, deviant... sinful.
Martin and Robbie embark on a cautious relationship, cocooned in Hollywood’s clandestine gay fraternity, careful to hide from the studio boss, a rival actor, and reporters on the lookout for a juicy story. But when tragedy and scandal rock the town, igniting a morality-based witch hunt fueled by a remorseless press, the studio brass will sacrifice even the greatest careers to defend their endangered empire. Robbie and Martin stand no chance against the firestorm—unless they stand together.
Robbie fled Idaho after a run-in with the law. A chance encounter leads him to the film studio where he lands a job as a chauffeur. But one look at Martin and he’s convinced he’s likely to run afoul of those same laws—laws that brand his desires indecent, deviant... sinful.
Martin and Robbie embark on a cautious relationship, cocooned in Hollywood’s clandestine gay fraternity, careful to hide from the studio boss, a rival actor, and reporters on the lookout for a juicy story. But when tragedy and scandal rock the town, igniting a morality-based witch hunt fueled by a remorseless press, the studio brass will sacrifice even the greatest careers to defend their endangered empire. Robbie and Martin stand no chance against the firestorm—unless they stand together.
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 3, 2020
17 people are currently reading
286 people want to read
About the author
E.J. Russell
54 books418 followersE.J. Russell –grace, mother of three, recovering actor–writes romance in a rainbow of flavors. Count on high snark, low angst and happy endings.
Reality? Eh, not so much.
Reality? Eh, not so much.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
January 22, 2022
I love old movies, but I really know next to nothing about silent film stars. E.J. Russell does a lovely job of blending history with romance in Silent Sin.
While the early 1920's were a unique time in American history, Russell's Silent Sin also shows that things sure haven't changed that much. Hollywood still makes its own rules, the press still hounds the stars, and folks still keep relationships under-wraps... or they try to. Nicely done!
The audiobook is beautifully performed by Greg Boudreaux. Flawlessly jumping from educated Brit to country bumpkin, and everywhere in between, Mr. Boudreaux has his work cut out for him with this cast. But, as always, his accents are perfection.
an audiobook copy of Silent Sin was provided for the purpose of my honest review, all opinions are my own
While the early 1920's were a unique time in American history, Russell's Silent Sin also shows that things sure haven't changed that much. Hollywood still makes its own rules, the press still hounds the stars, and folks still keep relationships under-wraps... or they try to. Nicely done!
The audiobook is beautifully performed by Greg Boudreaux. Flawlessly jumping from educated Brit to country bumpkin, and everywhere in between, Mr. Boudreaux has his work cut out for him with this cast. But, as always, his accents are perfection.
an audiobook copy of Silent Sin was provided for the purpose of my honest review, all opinions are my own
March 6, 2020
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.75 stars
Silent Sin is a gorgeous story set in the golden age of silent film. To say that author E.J. Russell did her homework is to diminish the rich history that unfolds in this story. With familiar silent screen stars like Valentino, Charlie Chaplin, Fatty Arbuckle, and the like, the reader is thrown into the backstage of a movie lot teeming with drama that goes far beyond the cutting room floor. The story focuses on two fictional characters—one, an actor who is never sure if his contract will be renewed and does everything he can to put himself in the best light, and the other a green, naïve young man who becomes the quintessential Hollywood poster boy of someone who goes from rags to riches overnight. In a time when the Temperance unions have banned alcohol and the newspapers are ferreting out the latest scandal and ruining men’s lives with stories of their sexual perversion, these two men, Martin and Robbie, fall in love and spend every waking moment trying not to get caught in the act.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
4.75 stars
Silent Sin is a gorgeous story set in the golden age of silent film. To say that author E.J. Russell did her homework is to diminish the rich history that unfolds in this story. With familiar silent screen stars like Valentino, Charlie Chaplin, Fatty Arbuckle, and the like, the reader is thrown into the backstage of a movie lot teeming with drama that goes far beyond the cutting room floor. The story focuses on two fictional characters—one, an actor who is never sure if his contract will be renewed and does everything he can to put himself in the best light, and the other a green, naïve young man who becomes the quintessential Hollywood poster boy of someone who goes from rags to riches overnight. In a time when the Temperance unions have banned alcohol and the newspapers are ferreting out the latest scandal and ruining men’s lives with stories of their sexual perversion, these two men, Martin and Robbie, fall in love and spend every waking moment trying not to get caught in the act.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
August 31, 2023
I've given this an A for narration and a B+ for content at AudioGals, so that's 4.5 stars (and I've rounded up).
E.J. Russell’s Silent Sin is a standalone historical romance set in the Hollywood of the 1920s featuring a movie star and the man who – through a fortunate circumstance – lands a job as his driver. The author has clearly done her homework when it comes to the background of this story – about the studio system and the influence it exerted over all aspects of the lives of its stars, about the relationship between the studios and the press – and that, together with the inclusion of a number of real-life figures and events, grounds the story very firmly in its time and place. I had a couple of niggles, but overall it’s a compelling story with fantastic narration by Greg Boudreaux, and I lapped it up.
When the book begins, we meet Robbie – Robinson Crusoe Goodman – as he arrives in a place called Hollywood. He’s disappointed; he’d hoped the farmer who’d given him a lift in his truck would have taken him a bit further along the road – plus in a town, he’s unlikely to find any work of the sort that could be done by a former potato farmer from Idaho whose meagre possessions amount to the very threadbare set of clothes on his back. After spending the night in an uninhabited shack at the edge of town, a tired, hungry and thirsty Robbie walks slowly back down main street, with no real idea of what to do next. He watches, surprised, as a cowboy – wondering just what a cowboy is doing in a town where there are no cows? – strolls along the street announcing he’s just got a part in a new picture. Robbie has no idea what the man is talking about, and just as he’s about to move along, is tapped on the shoulder and turns to find an older man wearing a uniform is speaking to him. For just a second or two, Robbie panics – uniforms mean authority and Robbie has been running from the authorities for six weeks now – but the man – who says that everyone calls him Pops – tells Robbie he’s done nothing wrong and then offers to buy him breakfast. Robbie can’t believe his luck, and as they eat, Pops tells Robbie that he works at Citadel Motion Pictures and, after ascertaining that Robbie knows how to drive, offers him a job.
Martin Brentwood is one of Citadel’s most popular stars, but after five years on screen, he’s become a bit weary of the constant need to play the game and play a role, even when he’s not on set. He’s disillusioned and his career is floundering; and while on the one hand he worries it may be coming to an end, on the other, he knows acting isn’t what he really wants to do. His contract is up for renewal though, and his manager and best friend, Sid, makes clear the importance of keeping his nose clean. While Hollywood is one of the few places it’s relatively safe to be queer – and relatively really IS the key word there – the studio bosses will turn a blind eye only so long as their ‘assets’ are making them money; the slightest whiff of scandal and they’re on their own. Martin’s movie career pays the bills and he owes it to himself, and to Sid, not to screw it up for the sake of a quick fuck, and for now, to head over to the studio to do some re-takes on the dumb, pro-Prohibition movie in which his character – a drunkard – dies a horrible (and morally satisfying (for the temperance leagues, anyway) death.
Sid has arranged for a new driver to take Martin to the studio (after Martin fired the previous one for getting too nosy), and the first time he sees him, Martin is captivated. He initially assumes that someone so beautiful and fresh-faced as this stunning young man must have come to Hollywood to break into pictures and, with a sinking heart, determines not to let an “ambitious nobody” get under his skin. He soon realises his error though, when Robbie proves to be exactly what he appears to be – honest, kind, funny and warm, his naiveté such a balm to Martin’s cynicism and the insincerity that has become a way of life.
We discover early on that both men are keeping secrets – it’s in the blurb – but the full truth as to why Robbie is on the run is carefully drip-fed throughout the story, slowly building a picture of his life with a cruel, uncaring father and a distant mother, confused by feelings the Bible insists are an abomination. He’s learned that while those feelings aren’t unique to him, they’re nonetheless unacceptable – yet he can’t help falling for the handsome Martin, who talks to him kindly and treats him as an equal, even though he’s a star and Robbie is just a driver.
Robbie and Martin are very different, likeable men who meet when they’re at turning points in their lives, both working out who they are and who they want to be; and their romance is sweet and fairly low-steam with something of the slow-burn about it, which works well in context. Robbie’s story mirrors that perennial Hollywood favourite – the unknown who becomes a star when he unintentionally attracts the interest of one of Citadel’s producers, moves from being a driver to working behind the camera and from there – again unintentionally – ends up in front of it. But despite the fame and fortune it brings him, Robbie is still Robbie; he stays true to himself and I really liked that.
I was glued from Silent Sin from start to finish. I have a couple of niggles, but there’s so much to love here, from the characters themselves to the drama and intrigue of the movie lot, the glimpse into the world of movie-making and the beautifully evoked world of silent-era Hollywood glamour. Behind the scenes, though, it’s murky and manipulative and, for men like Robbie and Martin, potentially dangerous. The temperance leagues and morality clubs were forcing the entertainment industry to dance to their tune; morality clauses were first introduced into actors’ contracts (following the accusation and trial of Fatty Arbuckle for rape and murder in 1921), the Volstead Act introduced prohibition, and the press was hungry for gossip and scandal and weren’t too concerned about where or how they got it. (Plus ça change…) It’s all fascinating stuff (for this movie buff, especially) and is superbly done.
Those niggles I mentioned; the romance is perhaps a teeny bit ‘insta’ and the crisis moment near the end is a bit predictable – but I was so wrapped up in the story that neither of those things spoiled my enjoyment.
And, of course, the narration is fabulous. Greg Boudreaux always delivers technical accomplishment and polish, his voice acting is excellent and he never fails to get into the heads of the characters he portrays so that the listener experiences all the action and emotion of the story right alongside them. He’s wonderful as Robbie, combining a perfectly judged innocence and sense of wide-eyed wonder with an inner strength and strong sense of self. His portrayal of Martin – complete with cut-glass English accent (although Hertfordshire is pronounced HARTfordshire, not HURTfordshire!) – is just as good, all world-weary cynicism on the outside, but infused with affection and tenderness in his interactions with Robbie. There are quite a few supporting roles here, and Mr. Boudreaux switches between them effortlessly, making use of a variety of different timbres and accents to portray leading ladies, aggressive producers, studio bosses and aspiring scenarists (screenwriters) with aplomb.
Silent Sin is an unmissable combination of fascinating, well-researched story, tender romance and outstanding narration. It was released in 2021 and I’m kicking myself for not having listened to it sooner; do yourself a favour and grab a copy ASAP!
This review originally appeared at AudioGals.
E.J. Russell’s Silent Sin is a standalone historical romance set in the Hollywood of the 1920s featuring a movie star and the man who – through a fortunate circumstance – lands a job as his driver. The author has clearly done her homework when it comes to the background of this story – about the studio system and the influence it exerted over all aspects of the lives of its stars, about the relationship between the studios and the press – and that, together with the inclusion of a number of real-life figures and events, grounds the story very firmly in its time and place. I had a couple of niggles, but overall it’s a compelling story with fantastic narration by Greg Boudreaux, and I lapped it up.
When the book begins, we meet Robbie – Robinson Crusoe Goodman – as he arrives in a place called Hollywood. He’s disappointed; he’d hoped the farmer who’d given him a lift in his truck would have taken him a bit further along the road – plus in a town, he’s unlikely to find any work of the sort that could be done by a former potato farmer from Idaho whose meagre possessions amount to the very threadbare set of clothes on his back. After spending the night in an uninhabited shack at the edge of town, a tired, hungry and thirsty Robbie walks slowly back down main street, with no real idea of what to do next. He watches, surprised, as a cowboy – wondering just what a cowboy is doing in a town where there are no cows? – strolls along the street announcing he’s just got a part in a new picture. Robbie has no idea what the man is talking about, and just as he’s about to move along, is tapped on the shoulder and turns to find an older man wearing a uniform is speaking to him. For just a second or two, Robbie panics – uniforms mean authority and Robbie has been running from the authorities for six weeks now – but the man – who says that everyone calls him Pops – tells Robbie he’s done nothing wrong and then offers to buy him breakfast. Robbie can’t believe his luck, and as they eat, Pops tells Robbie that he works at Citadel Motion Pictures and, after ascertaining that Robbie knows how to drive, offers him a job.
Martin Brentwood is one of Citadel’s most popular stars, but after five years on screen, he’s become a bit weary of the constant need to play the game and play a role, even when he’s not on set. He’s disillusioned and his career is floundering; and while on the one hand he worries it may be coming to an end, on the other, he knows acting isn’t what he really wants to do. His contract is up for renewal though, and his manager and best friend, Sid, makes clear the importance of keeping his nose clean. While Hollywood is one of the few places it’s relatively safe to be queer – and relatively really IS the key word there – the studio bosses will turn a blind eye only so long as their ‘assets’ are making them money; the slightest whiff of scandal and they’re on their own. Martin’s movie career pays the bills and he owes it to himself, and to Sid, not to screw it up for the sake of a quick fuck, and for now, to head over to the studio to do some re-takes on the dumb, pro-Prohibition movie in which his character – a drunkard – dies a horrible (and morally satisfying (for the temperance leagues, anyway) death.
Sid has arranged for a new driver to take Martin to the studio (after Martin fired the previous one for getting too nosy), and the first time he sees him, Martin is captivated. He initially assumes that someone so beautiful and fresh-faced as this stunning young man must have come to Hollywood to break into pictures and, with a sinking heart, determines not to let an “ambitious nobody” get under his skin. He soon realises his error though, when Robbie proves to be exactly what he appears to be – honest, kind, funny and warm, his naiveté such a balm to Martin’s cynicism and the insincerity that has become a way of life.
We discover early on that both men are keeping secrets – it’s in the blurb – but the full truth as to why Robbie is on the run is carefully drip-fed throughout the story, slowly building a picture of his life with a cruel, uncaring father and a distant mother, confused by feelings the Bible insists are an abomination. He’s learned that while those feelings aren’t unique to him, they’re nonetheless unacceptable – yet he can’t help falling for the handsome Martin, who talks to him kindly and treats him as an equal, even though he’s a star and Robbie is just a driver.
Robbie and Martin are very different, likeable men who meet when they’re at turning points in their lives, both working out who they are and who they want to be; and their romance is sweet and fairly low-steam with something of the slow-burn about it, which works well in context. Robbie’s story mirrors that perennial Hollywood favourite – the unknown who becomes a star when he unintentionally attracts the interest of one of Citadel’s producers, moves from being a driver to working behind the camera and from there – again unintentionally – ends up in front of it. But despite the fame and fortune it brings him, Robbie is still Robbie; he stays true to himself and I really liked that.
I was glued from Silent Sin from start to finish. I have a couple of niggles, but there’s so much to love here, from the characters themselves to the drama and intrigue of the movie lot, the glimpse into the world of movie-making and the beautifully evoked world of silent-era Hollywood glamour. Behind the scenes, though, it’s murky and manipulative and, for men like Robbie and Martin, potentially dangerous. The temperance leagues and morality clubs were forcing the entertainment industry to dance to their tune; morality clauses were first introduced into actors’ contracts (following the accusation and trial of Fatty Arbuckle for rape and murder in 1921), the Volstead Act introduced prohibition, and the press was hungry for gossip and scandal and weren’t too concerned about where or how they got it. (Plus ça change…) It’s all fascinating stuff (for this movie buff, especially) and is superbly done.
Those niggles I mentioned; the romance is perhaps a teeny bit ‘insta’ and the crisis moment near the end is a bit predictable – but I was so wrapped up in the story that neither of those things spoiled my enjoyment.
And, of course, the narration is fabulous. Greg Boudreaux always delivers technical accomplishment and polish, his voice acting is excellent and he never fails to get into the heads of the characters he portrays so that the listener experiences all the action and emotion of the story right alongside them. He’s wonderful as Robbie, combining a perfectly judged innocence and sense of wide-eyed wonder with an inner strength and strong sense of self. His portrayal of Martin – complete with cut-glass English accent (although Hertfordshire is pronounced HARTfordshire, not HURTfordshire!) – is just as good, all world-weary cynicism on the outside, but infused with affection and tenderness in his interactions with Robbie. There are quite a few supporting roles here, and Mr. Boudreaux switches between them effortlessly, making use of a variety of different timbres and accents to portray leading ladies, aggressive producers, studio bosses and aspiring scenarists (screenwriters) with aplomb.
Silent Sin is an unmissable combination of fascinating, well-researched story, tender romance and outstanding narration. It was released in 2021 and I’m kicking myself for not having listened to it sooner; do yourself a favour and grab a copy ASAP!
This review originally appeared at AudioGals.
January 1, 2022
Audio - 5 Stars
Story - 2.75 Stars
Story - 2.75 Stars
January 14, 2022
5 stars for the narrator. Greg Boudreaux is always solid. His performance was what kept me listening.
3 stars for the story.
This story was more about the inner workings of the silent film era of Hollywood. Robbie and Martin's relationship is more like a side character. There but not really the focus. They spent more time apart than they did together.
The relationship is low steam. Most of the bedroom scenes take place off the pages. It's an interesting book but not sure I'll say it's a romance 🤷🏽♀️
*Audio ARC provide by GRR, this is my honest review.*
3 stars for the story.
This story was more about the inner workings of the silent film era of Hollywood. Robbie and Martin's relationship is more like a side character. There but not really the focus. They spent more time apart than they did together.
The relationship is low steam. Most of the bedroom scenes take place off the pages. It's an interesting book but not sure I'll say it's a romance 🤷🏽♀️
*Audio ARC provide by GRR, this is my honest review.*
January 10, 2022
Silent film, slow burn,
Low steam, based on true story
Romance. It’s okay.
Low steam, based on true story
Romance. It’s okay.
February 21, 2020
There is something fascinating about silent era Hollywood. The nobility that still clings to their titles mixed with noveau riche who bring money in hopes of obtaining class and certain air of entitlement, beauty that can propel you into immediate stardom and back stabbing actors, cutthroat business of movie making and behind the scenes secrets - Ms Russell captured the world long gone but not forgotten with minutiae precision. I delved into the day to day lives of stars who had to act both in front of camera and off of it, who had to hide their love and make sacrifices, but who in the end took a chance at something they didn't dare dream of.
Both men, Robbie and Martin, hide behind the facade of affable smiles and placid facial expressions. They find each other at the crossroads of their lives - Martin's career is going down while Robbie is trying to find where he belongs. I liked their initial differences: Robbie's naivete and Martin's cynicism. Their relationship slowly develops and gives way to feelings. I enjoyed their journey, but I wanted a bit more passion between them. Most of the intimate scenes were fade to black. Since they always had to hide who they were to each other in the world, I wished they expressed their feelings a bit more privately.
I enjoyed the workings of the movie industry, all the intrigue and hate actors felt and the reasons behind it. I loved the movie making process and how actors interacted with each other. Movie scene of that time seems vastly different from today. The author expressed a very good sentiment: if you fail, there are ten people behind you ready to step in. The subjects read well researched and put together with great care.
This was dual POV, mildly angsty and low steam romance. The story flowed smoothly, was very easy to read and get into. I just wish that Robbie and Martin let loose at least once. Otherwise their love was more romantic, sweet and gentle. One wanted to know if under that angelic smile hid the heart of a kinky devil. I liked the story a lot. Copy received for my honest and unbiased review
Both men, Robbie and Martin, hide behind the facade of affable smiles and placid facial expressions. They find each other at the crossroads of their lives - Martin's career is going down while Robbie is trying to find where he belongs. I liked their initial differences: Robbie's naivete and Martin's cynicism. Their relationship slowly develops and gives way to feelings. I enjoyed their journey, but I wanted a bit more passion between them. Most of the intimate scenes were fade to black. Since they always had to hide who they were to each other in the world, I wished they expressed their feelings a bit more privately.
I enjoyed the workings of the movie industry, all the intrigue and hate actors felt and the reasons behind it. I loved the movie making process and how actors interacted with each other. Movie scene of that time seems vastly different from today. The author expressed a very good sentiment: if you fail, there are ten people behind you ready to step in. The subjects read well researched and put together with great care.
This was dual POV, mildly angsty and low steam romance. The story flowed smoothly, was very easy to read and get into. I just wish that Robbie and Martin let loose at least once. Otherwise their love was more romantic, sweet and gentle. One wanted to know if under that angelic smile hid the heart of a kinky devil. I liked the story a lot. Copy received for my honest and unbiased review
April 8, 2020
So I admit, historical romance has never been my thing, especially mm historical romance. However, EJ Russell did an outstanding job with her research, her accuracy to the times and to the early movie industry, and I appreciated the all attention to detail and storytelling she brought to this story.
I enjoyed Martin and Robbie together. Martin is an established silent screen actor worrying that his career was reaching its ending point, and Robbie pretty much falls into Hollywood and acting, but he would rather have Martin than all the fame in the world. The two were very sweet together (low heat as far as on page action goes) and I just wanted to them to figure out how to make it work during a time when being gay, being together, was incredibly risky for both work and their very livelihoods.
This is a great historical fiction story, with a lighter side of romance. I loved the mentioning of real life people and events that were going on in this time (I'm an art history major and took multiple classes on film history back in college, so it kinda appealed to my art history geek side!). I do wish there had been more of Martin and Robbie together, in private moments - a lot of it was told after the fact, and I'm a big sucker for wanting to read all the details about major first times.
Overall, this story is unique, sweet, and stands out as a strong mm romantic historical fiction story.
I enjoyed Martin and Robbie together. Martin is an established silent screen actor worrying that his career was reaching its ending point, and Robbie pretty much falls into Hollywood and acting, but he would rather have Martin than all the fame in the world. The two were very sweet together (low heat as far as on page action goes) and I just wanted to them to figure out how to make it work during a time when being gay, being together, was incredibly risky for both work and their very livelihoods.
This is a great historical fiction story, with a lighter side of romance. I loved the mentioning of real life people and events that were going on in this time (I'm an art history major and took multiple classes on film history back in college, so it kinda appealed to my art history geek side!). I do wish there had been more of Martin and Robbie together, in private moments - a lot of it was told after the fact, and I'm a big sucker for wanting to read all the details about major first times.
Overall, this story is unique, sweet, and stands out as a strong mm romantic historical fiction story.
January 10, 2022
Historical isn't a genre to grab my attention, but this book sure had it and kept it. I love the dynamic between an older, experienced man and a younger, smart, and mature man. This was just perfectly written, with all of the pining looks and under-the-table touches. I definitely recommend this listen. And Greg Boudreaux was brilliant as always!
March 15, 2024
The audio is what really saved this for me. It could also be I was in a mood and I wasn't as patient with my reading. I skipped a lot towards the latter half because there was so much about movie making that I didn't care.
It was obvious that the two would end up together so I was just in a rush to see that.
It was an overall fine story, and I'm sure this is an outlying opinion.
I do recommend this though because it was still a unique story and written well.
2 stars because it was just ok for me.
5 stars for narration!!
It was obvious that the two would end up together so I was just in a rush to see that.
It was an overall fine story, and I'm sure this is an outlying opinion.
I do recommend this though because it was still a unique story and written well.
2 stars because it was just ok for me.
5 stars for narration!!
Read
September 25, 2024DNF @ 44%
I am bored. The tidbits of romance are not enough. It is pretty insta-love and taking a back seat to the politics of Hollywood and I just don't care. Also this couldn't be more fade-to-black and while I don't need smut I at least need to love the characters to make up for the lack of smut so I'm moving on....
I am bored. The tidbits of romance are not enough. It is pretty insta-love and taking a back seat to the politics of Hollywood and I just don't care. Also this couldn't be more fade-to-black and while I don't need smut I at least need to love the characters to make up for the lack of smut so I'm moving on....
March 5, 2023
2.5 stars. This book was nice enough but I wasn’t the right audience.
*I’m not a fan of the time period or the silent film industry.
*The writing was good but the pacing was too slow for my liking. The last 15% or so when Martin breaks up with Robbie “for his own good” was unnecessary and just felt like filler.
*I am *never* a fan of fade-to-black sex scenes.
*Totally bummed that the author dropped Pops from the narrative. He was a favorite character and she totally left me hanging, wondering what happened to him.
*Jehoshaphat and pecker. May I not hear either of those words for a long time to come.
On the plus side, the epilogue was lovely.
*I’m not a fan of the time period or the silent film industry.
*The writing was good but the pacing was too slow for my liking. The last 15% or so when Martin breaks up with Robbie “for his own good” was unnecessary and just felt like filler.
*I am *never* a fan of fade-to-black sex scenes.
*Totally bummed that the author dropped Pops from the narrative. He was a favorite character and she totally left me hanging, wondering what happened to him.
*Jehoshaphat and pecker. May I not hear either of those words for a long time to come.
On the plus side, the epilogue was lovely.
Read
October 5, 2023DNF 50%
Still didn’t care at the halfway point and time is precious.
Still didn’t care at the halfway point and time is precious.
March 1, 2020
This book is an amazingly depicted tableau of the silent film era. The author obviously did a lot of research, converted into a detailed and realistic description of circumstances, people and surroundings.
Through the diametric perceptions of newly arrived, lively Robbie and jaded, cynical Martin, I was shown the real world of Hollywood, the one hidden behind the glamour. It's not that I haven't considered it before, but it still took me by surprise to see how volatile the environment was, to which point the acting was taken, even in day to day life. I hated how they lived in a constant state of insecurity, at the whims of studio power and the press. A sad life, really, when they needed to be always watchful and not able to trust any of the people around them. But I guess that's what made them appreciate the rare gems of genuine friendship, the true value of people like Pops, Dottie, Evelyn or Sid.
In this world, people "in the life" as Martin called it, had it somewhat easier than in the rest of the country, as long as they had the studios' safeguard. Martin and Robbie had it for a while, and even used the chance to be alone with each other during the filming of a movie, but a future together was just as uncertain as everything else in their lives. I really liked them, especially gentle, unassuming Robbie, and maybe their romance lacked on page fireworks, but compensated with sweet, strong love, the kind of deep set feelings I'm sure were everlasting.
I absolutely cheered at the ending. I was so, so relieved after all the insecurities I've witnessed in the book. And while Silent Sin is admittedly different than other books I've read by EJ Russell, it's just as amazing as the rest.
Through the diametric perceptions of newly arrived, lively Robbie and jaded, cynical Martin, I was shown the real world of Hollywood, the one hidden behind the glamour. It's not that I haven't considered it before, but it still took me by surprise to see how volatile the environment was, to which point the acting was taken, even in day to day life. I hated how they lived in a constant state of insecurity, at the whims of studio power and the press. A sad life, really, when they needed to be always watchful and not able to trust any of the people around them. But I guess that's what made them appreciate the rare gems of genuine friendship, the true value of people like Pops, Dottie, Evelyn or Sid.
In this world, people "in the life" as Martin called it, had it somewhat easier than in the rest of the country, as long as they had the studios' safeguard. Martin and Robbie had it for a while, and even used the chance to be alone with each other during the filming of a movie, but a future together was just as uncertain as everything else in their lives. I really liked them, especially gentle, unassuming Robbie, and maybe their romance lacked on page fireworks, but compensated with sweet, strong love, the kind of deep set feelings I'm sure were everlasting.
I absolutely cheered at the ending. I was so, so relieved after all the insecurities I've witnessed in the book. And while Silent Sin is admittedly different than other books I've read by EJ Russell, it's just as amazing as the rest.
March 23, 2020
4.5 Stars!
When Robinson Crusoe "Robbie" Goodman ran away from home, the last thing he expected was to land a job as a chauffeur in Hollywood or that he'd be so attracted to the man he had to drive around. Martin Brentwood is kind and treats Robbie like an equal and is equally drawn to Robbie, but in the era of the silent film boom in Hollywood two men being together could land one or both of them in jail, even with the power of the movie studios behind them. Add to that the fact that Martin's career might be ending and Robbie is just starting out, do they have what it takes to make it work between them?
Robbie was such a sweet, innocent young man and I loved that he kept that naivete throughout the book. He was a huge part of why I loved this book so much. I liked Martin a lot, but frankly, while I understood his fear, I was a bit fed up that Robbie had more of a backbone than Martin did in the end, despite their age difference. While most of the sex scenes are fade to black, the chemistry and intensity of Robbie and Martin's feelings came across the page loud and clear.
The book is long, but I was so captivated by the storyline, by Ms. Russell's descriptions of the era, that I barely felt it. I was swept away in the romance, in the words, and while I wasn't familiar with the particular timeframe this book is set in, I think the author did a fantastic job making it feel authentic and believable all things considered. Definitely a book I have no trouble recommending!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
When Robinson Crusoe "Robbie" Goodman ran away from home, the last thing he expected was to land a job as a chauffeur in Hollywood or that he'd be so attracted to the man he had to drive around. Martin Brentwood is kind and treats Robbie like an equal and is equally drawn to Robbie, but in the era of the silent film boom in Hollywood two men being together could land one or both of them in jail, even with the power of the movie studios behind them. Add to that the fact that Martin's career might be ending and Robbie is just starting out, do they have what it takes to make it work between them?
Robbie was such a sweet, innocent young man and I loved that he kept that naivete throughout the book. He was a huge part of why I loved this book so much. I liked Martin a lot, but frankly, while I understood his fear, I was a bit fed up that Robbie had more of a backbone than Martin did in the end, despite their age difference. While most of the sex scenes are fade to black, the chemistry and intensity of Robbie and Martin's feelings came across the page loud and clear.
The book is long, but I was so captivated by the storyline, by Ms. Russell's descriptions of the era, that I barely felt it. I was swept away in the romance, in the words, and while I wasn't familiar with the particular timeframe this book is set in, I think the author did a fantastic job making it feel authentic and believable all things considered. Definitely a book I have no trouble recommending!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
September 1, 2021
4.0 out of 5 - Fun Step Back In Time, of Being "In the Life."
What a joy it was to be a part of the silent film era. I felt like I was in The Artist. E.J. Russell's first historical shone as bright as a star on Hollywood's Walk of Fame. She had a good balance of real people and events and the symbolic romance between 2 men "in the life," inspired by a real one.
She did her research, and I felt I was there with the filming on sets and on sites, the way people were and how studios treated, or mistreated the actors, and their secrets, especially the gay ones. There was a good amount, but I could have used more visuals of the surrounding places and scenes of the times.
Ah, that was made up for by the focus on two likable gentlemen, their growth, their interplay and the growth of their relationship. Not a unique premise of the young novice and the veteran, but it was all in the writing that gave it shape. I love historicals, E.J., let me know if you need any ideas for more.
What a joy it was to be a part of the silent film era. I felt like I was in The Artist. E.J. Russell's first historical shone as bright as a star on Hollywood's Walk of Fame. She had a good balance of real people and events and the symbolic romance between 2 men "in the life," inspired by a real one.
She did her research, and I felt I was there with the filming on sets and on sites, the way people were and how studios treated, or mistreated the actors, and their secrets, especially the gay ones. There was a good amount, but I could have used more visuals of the surrounding places and scenes of the times.
Ah, that was made up for by the focus on two likable gentlemen, their growth, their interplay and the growth of their relationship. Not a unique premise of the young novice and the veteran, but it was all in the writing that gave it shape. I love historicals, E.J., let me know if you need any ideas for more.
January 20, 2022
Independent reviewer for Gay Romance Reviews, I was gifted the AUDIO file of this book.
There comes along, once in a while, a book that challenges my need for the smexy times, for lots of smexy times. This is such a book.
Oh don't get me wrong, there is passion and steam a-plenty, and some much romance. But once Martin and Robbie get down to it, it all fades to grey and I LOVED that it did! I really did enjoy NOT getting down and dirty with these men, and it made a wonderful change.
I loved that Robbie's history takes a bit longer to be revealed than Martin's. While there are many more clues about Martin's, Robbie's is a little vague.
I loved the research that obviously went into this book! I did indeed Google Mr Arbuckle and whether he was charged as he was in this book and he was! 3 times, twice with hung juries and the third time he was acquitted. I Googled the morality clause too. Ms Russell went to a good deal of trouble to get things right! Even the murder that occurs (off screen, minor named character)
I loved the supporting cast. Dottie, Evie and Sid all played a part to keep Robbie and Martin together, even if Martin ran away.
I loved the detailed descriptions of the places they were filming, and the things they had to do!
And finally, I loved the narration. Greg Boudreaux is a firm favourite of mine, and he never lets me down. His voices for Martin now, and then, were spot on. Robbie's voice was young at the beginning but he soon grows up! Boudreaux gets over all of the instant attraction between Robbie and Martin, and the ever growing friendship, that turns into a relationship. He gets over all that smexy time we do NOT get, in a few words, with a certain tone and I loved that!
I only read one other book by this author, and that was a 4 star read but this? This far surpasses that one, so...
5 stars for the book
5 stars for the narration
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
There comes along, once in a while, a book that challenges my need for the smexy times, for lots of smexy times. This is such a book.
Oh don't get me wrong, there is passion and steam a-plenty, and some much romance. But once Martin and Robbie get down to it, it all fades to grey and I LOVED that it did! I really did enjoy NOT getting down and dirty with these men, and it made a wonderful change.
I loved that Robbie's history takes a bit longer to be revealed than Martin's. While there are many more clues about Martin's, Robbie's is a little vague.
I loved the research that obviously went into this book! I did indeed Google Mr Arbuckle and whether he was charged as he was in this book and he was! 3 times, twice with hung juries and the third time he was acquitted. I Googled the morality clause too. Ms Russell went to a good deal of trouble to get things right! Even the murder that occurs (off screen, minor named character)
I loved the supporting cast. Dottie, Evie and Sid all played a part to keep Robbie and Martin together, even if Martin ran away.
I loved the detailed descriptions of the places they were filming, and the things they had to do!
And finally, I loved the narration. Greg Boudreaux is a firm favourite of mine, and he never lets me down. His voices for Martin now, and then, were spot on. Robbie's voice was young at the beginning but he soon grows up! Boudreaux gets over all of the instant attraction between Robbie and Martin, and the ever growing friendship, that turns into a relationship. He gets over all that smexy time we do NOT get, in a few words, with a certain tone and I loved that!
I only read one other book by this author, and that was a 4 star read but this? This far surpasses that one, so...
5 stars for the book
5 stars for the narration
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
February 27, 2020
4.5 stars
Everybody goes to Hollywood to become a film star… or do they?
Robinson Crusoe Goodman arrives to Hollywood running away from his natal Idaho and the ghosts of remorse. He does not know about the film industry, he is only looking for a way to survive another day on the road. When a random gesture of kindness catches the eye of Pops, he offers him a meal and a chance at a job, which Robbie accepts, not knowing that it is going to change his life and his perception of the world forever.
Sweet, slow burn romance about two men who meet and fall in love in a time where it is really dangerous. In the beginnings of the film making industry, in the era of silent films, people who are “in the life” share a secret that it is not so, and will only be protected as long as they are productive for their film making companies. In this background, a really innocent and kind Robbie meets film star Martin Brentwood, whose stardom is slowly but unavoidably fading. They begin a relationship which is as sweet as dangerous for both, but they will somehow find a way to make it work, despite all the odds.
The romance is sweet, the characters endearing (both the main ones and the secondary ones), but what I really enjoyed in this story is the background of the film making industry at the beginning, how the wheels of Hollywood are shaping the basis of what is going to become with time. A fascinating story about a fascinating era
Sweet and entertaining
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Everybody goes to Hollywood to become a film star… or do they?
Robinson Crusoe Goodman arrives to Hollywood running away from his natal Idaho and the ghosts of remorse. He does not know about the film industry, he is only looking for a way to survive another day on the road. When a random gesture of kindness catches the eye of Pops, he offers him a meal and a chance at a job, which Robbie accepts, not knowing that it is going to change his life and his perception of the world forever.
Sweet, slow burn romance about two men who meet and fall in love in a time where it is really dangerous. In the beginnings of the film making industry, in the era of silent films, people who are “in the life” share a secret that it is not so, and will only be protected as long as they are productive for their film making companies. In this background, a really innocent and kind Robbie meets film star Martin Brentwood, whose stardom is slowly but unavoidably fading. They begin a relationship which is as sweet as dangerous for both, but they will somehow find a way to make it work, despite all the odds.
The romance is sweet, the characters endearing (both the main ones and the secondary ones), but what I really enjoyed in this story is the background of the film making industry at the beginning, how the wheels of Hollywood are shaping the basis of what is going to become with time. A fascinating story about a fascinating era
Sweet and entertaining
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 12, 2025
2.5 Stars.
Audiobook.
What I like: Quite well written with a cohesive plot, which made the novel decently captivating and good enough entertainment.
What I dislike: Robbie being the most humble, loyal, kind, handsome, perfect human being who is also brilliant at everything he does, yet Martin talking to Robbie as though he were a child that needs to be taught everything about life. Also, too many side characters to keep track off.
Audiobook.
What I like: Quite well written with a cohesive plot, which made the novel decently captivating and good enough entertainment.
What I dislike: Robbie being the most humble, loyal, kind, handsome, perfect human being who is also brilliant at everything he does, yet Martin talking to Robbie as though he were a child that needs to be taught everything about life. Also, too many side characters to keep track off.
January 22, 2022
This is the first fictional book I’ve ever read set within the glam and lights of early Hollywood. E.J. Russell put a lot of care and effort in getting historical details right which only enriched the story further. The plot was focused on the obstacles the two main characters faced in achieving their happy ending within a world hostile to their love. Although the couple was never directly threatened, the stress and feeling of dread of being found out creates a heavy atmosphere at times. This really helps to grow and develop the characters, and really endeared them to me. This is a fascinating book with a well earned happy ending.
The audiobook was narrated by Greg Boudreaux who gives a fabulous performance. The audiobook production was well done and I enjoyed listening to the book immensely.
The audiobook was narrated by Greg Boudreaux who gives a fabulous performance. The audiobook production was well done and I enjoyed listening to the book immensely.
January 9, 2022
Set in the golden era of silent films, during a tumultuous period, the amount of research that went into this story was astounding! The true crime reader in me appreciated the details that E.J Russell included about Roscoe Arbuckle’s many trials, how he was treated by the media, the American public and how Virginia Rappe was forgotten in the maelstrom that followed her death. Not to mention how the William Desmond Taylor’s murder was handled by the studios, and the whispers that followed the people in his personal life. Fascinating facts that Russell weaves into the story flawlessly.
Robbie and Martin are great foils, playing off each other. Robbie, young and incredibly naive, while Martin is rather pessimistic, has been playing the game for ages and knows just how to hide who he is, with a smile on his face. It’s an engrossing story, about two men who are learning to be true to themselves, in an era when it was a matter of life and death, liberty and freedom. With a heavy subject matter, the story is surprisingly low angst.
Greg Boudreaux performs both characters with great depth, beautifully done, as always.
Robbie and Martin are great foils, playing off each other. Robbie, young and incredibly naive, while Martin is rather pessimistic, has been playing the game for ages and knows just how to hide who he is, with a smile on his face. It’s an engrossing story, about two men who are learning to be true to themselves, in an era when it was a matter of life and death, liberty and freedom. With a heavy subject matter, the story is surprisingly low angst.
Greg Boudreaux performs both characters with great depth, beautifully done, as always.
March 3, 2020
This was a hard story to read in a lot of ways. Not because it was bad, but because of how it’s a reminder of how anyone who is gay or a women or just plain different, had a hard time in those days. And it makes me sad that in all the progress we’ve made today, it’s still so much the same at times. And that’s not acceptable. But it is a good story. If it triggers you in some way, be careful. There are some scenes that are hard. Some beatings by people on to people who are gay. And it’s bad. So just be forewarned.
Martin’s whole life is a lie and to be honest, he’s kind of tired of it. He wanted to act and things, but the demands being made of him, especially when it’s something small in the film, is almost too much. The worries of if he’s going to get canned every second. It just gets old quick. And having to change his whole life to be that actor, makes him really wonder if it’s worth it. Especially when he’s being threatened of being exposed for who he really is, in every way. But he meets a new driver that is so green, it’s unbelievable. And it actually gives Martin hope of a future in where there is actual honesty and truthfulness in the world still. And he prays that Hollywood doesn’t corrupt the sweet innocence that is Robbie. But the crap going on in the studios and with some of the actors are causing heat to come down in many ways and Martin is terrified. And gives up the one thing that has given him life again and love. And if he can’t get past it, he will never be able to move forward.
I hate that people are so disgusting. Everyone is created to be different. And why people can’t accept others differences, makes me so mad. Because those same people don’t like their difference pointed out. And it really upsets me that in the age of progression, some things really haven’t changed much at all. Yeah, people can get married now, but at what cost? There’s always some kind of price people have to pay. So I can’t imagine how hard it really was for Martin and Robbie. Well I can, but it’s not a pretty picture to think about. Then and now. I wish things could have been better for them. I love that they held on to each other and never took their time for granted. Because it was so precious. And it’s a reminder to us today. Never take anyone for granted in our lives that mean something to us. Thankfully, there’s an HEA, but it doesn’t mean life was easy. It was so hard. But when it counted the most, Robbie never gave up. On the ones that meant the most to him. No matter how hard it got, he put his foot down and didn’t give in. And made sure in ways he could, that people knew what they meant to him.
I felt for both of these guys. I really felt for everyone in this story. It was hard for all of them in this story. Even the ones you wanted to smack. But it’s a good reminder of the good things we do have in life now and a reminder of how we have to keep fighting for it to be better. And maybe someday, it will finally be the way it should be.
http://lovebytesreviews.com/
Martin’s whole life is a lie and to be honest, he’s kind of tired of it. He wanted to act and things, but the demands being made of him, especially when it’s something small in the film, is almost too much. The worries of if he’s going to get canned every second. It just gets old quick. And having to change his whole life to be that actor, makes him really wonder if it’s worth it. Especially when he’s being threatened of being exposed for who he really is, in every way. But he meets a new driver that is so green, it’s unbelievable. And it actually gives Martin hope of a future in where there is actual honesty and truthfulness in the world still. And he prays that Hollywood doesn’t corrupt the sweet innocence that is Robbie. But the crap going on in the studios and with some of the actors are causing heat to come down in many ways and Martin is terrified. And gives up the one thing that has given him life again and love. And if he can’t get past it, he will never be able to move forward.
I hate that people are so disgusting. Everyone is created to be different. And why people can’t accept others differences, makes me so mad. Because those same people don’t like their difference pointed out. And it really upsets me that in the age of progression, some things really haven’t changed much at all. Yeah, people can get married now, but at what cost? There’s always some kind of price people have to pay. So I can’t imagine how hard it really was for Martin and Robbie. Well I can, but it’s not a pretty picture to think about. Then and now. I wish things could have been better for them. I love that they held on to each other and never took their time for granted. Because it was so precious. And it’s a reminder to us today. Never take anyone for granted in our lives that mean something to us. Thankfully, there’s an HEA, but it doesn’t mean life was easy. It was so hard. But when it counted the most, Robbie never gave up. On the ones that meant the most to him. No matter how hard it got, he put his foot down and didn’t give in. And made sure in ways he could, that people knew what they meant to him.
I felt for both of these guys. I really felt for everyone in this story. It was hard for all of them in this story. Even the ones you wanted to smack. But it’s a good reminder of the good things we do have in life now and a reminder of how we have to keep fighting for it to be better. And maybe someday, it will finally be the way it should be.
http://lovebytesreviews.com/
March 5, 2020
It was refreshing to get an historical romance set in this period of Hollywood rather than the usual English Regency or Victorian. I love those, but I enjoyed going to a different period and in America. I enjoy romances where a jaded, older character falls for the freshness and innocence of a younger character and this was very well handled here. I also like to go behind the scenes in work places and see how things really operate. That was in some sense the whole point here as we are taken into the workings of a movie studio of the period and introduced to all the competing agendas, political scheming for position and fame and backstabbing that goes on. It is clear that in this time period the relationship Martin and Robbie enter into isn't just one that would be frowned on by society but has real, legal and life threatening implications. It was almost as though the author was anticipating the Hayes' Code and toning down the explicitness of the romance scenes. None of that is sugar coated in this book and you will definitely feel sadness, anger and frustration at the way LGBTQ people, women, people of color and nonconformists of any stripe are treated here. I loved both the main characters even when they were pulling away from each other and trying to be noble and protect each other. The explicitness of the love scenes was toned down from the usual in today's MM romances, almost like the author was anticipating the adoption of the Hayes' Code into motion pictures. I found that an interesting technique and it did not detract one whit from my enjoyment, in fact it enhanced it. I look forward to more from this author both in this period and in others.
March 7, 2020
I love historical romance and one that takes place in the silent film era, which doesn't get written about enough as far as I'm concerned, is something I couldn't wait to get my hands on. Silent Sin didn't disappoint, I loved it!
The story is probably more fiction than romance but there definitely is a sweet, beautiful romance. I can't imagine what it must have been like for Robbie, Martin and others that were "in the life" had to go through. The terror of being found out and the consequences if you were found out broke my heart.
E.J. Russell did an exceptional job with world building and her characters. With a bit of "real life" mixed in she made it easy for me to become completely immersed in the characters lives and the era.
TAGS
-- historical/silent film era -- beautifully written -- loved the MCs... Martin & Robbie -- loved the secondary characters -- heartbreaking -- made me cry -- made me laugh -- made me very angry -- swoon worthy -- I read this too fast, now it's over
The story is probably more fiction than romance but there definitely is a sweet, beautiful romance. I can't imagine what it must have been like for Robbie, Martin and others that were "in the life" had to go through. The terror of being found out and the consequences if you were found out broke my heart.
E.J. Russell did an exceptional job with world building and her characters. With a bit of "real life" mixed in she made it easy for me to become completely immersed in the characters lives and the era.
TAGS
-- historical/silent film era -- beautifully written -- loved the MCs... Martin & Robbie -- loved the secondary characters -- heartbreaking -- made me cry -- made me laugh -- made me very angry -- swoon worthy -- I read this too fast, now it's over
March 4, 2020
Infinitely precious
I am a fan of historical romances and I really enjoyed getting to visit Hollywood in the 20s and the silent film era. This book was both fascinating and riveting. It showcased “the good, the bad and the ugly” of human nature. Parts of this book hurt my heart to read and it made me sad that many of the battles fought in it still exist today. That being said there are some amazing people in this book and I would love to have met them in real life or at least on the screen.
“You. Me. Our best life. No matter what they throw at us, we’ll find a way.” Robbie and Martin, their love was precious and they made me swoon and sigh. It was beautiful watching Martin open himself to love and Robbie especially I want to take home with me. He’s so sweet and I love how honest he is and how much he cares. A beautiful and amazing book.
I am a fan of historical romances and I really enjoyed getting to visit Hollywood in the 20s and the silent film era. This book was both fascinating and riveting. It showcased “the good, the bad and the ugly” of human nature. Parts of this book hurt my heart to read and it made me sad that many of the battles fought in it still exist today. That being said there are some amazing people in this book and I would love to have met them in real life or at least on the screen.
“You. Me. Our best life. No matter what they throw at us, we’ll find a way.” Robbie and Martin, their love was precious and they made me swoon and sigh. It was beautiful watching Martin open himself to love and Robbie especially I want to take home with me. He’s so sweet and I love how honest he is and how much he cares. A beautiful and amazing book.
January 29, 2022
I adored this. Hollywood in the 20s. What could be more perfect? There was enough talk of real life events to make this feel like a biography rather than fiction. The romance was gentle but well-developed. Robbie's rags to riches rise from vagrant to reluctant actor was superb.
The setting, the leads, the secondary characters, the incidental events surrounding the characters were perfectly written. I felt I was in 20s Hollywood.
The narrator was excellent, imbuing Robbie with a genuine goodness and naivety and Martin with a blasé world weariness.
Most of the intimate scenes are fade to black and that suited the story and writing style.
A truly lovely story and one I'll be returning to time and time again.
The setting, the leads, the secondary characters, the incidental events surrounding the characters were perfectly written. I felt I was in 20s Hollywood.
The narrator was excellent, imbuing Robbie with a genuine goodness and naivety and Martin with a blasé world weariness.
Most of the intimate scenes are fade to black and that suited the story and writing style.
A truly lovely story and one I'll be returning to time and time again.
April 24, 2020
Loved this, but it's not for the faint of heart IMHO. There's an almost constant undercurrent of dread running through it; not unlike that caused for many of us by the coronavirus. In other words, it wasn't working as an escape and so it took me a while to finish. But it's so beautifully done. Plotting, period, characters; all are great. And the setting is fascinating. The intrepid will be greatly rewarded; so glad to have found Russell.
July 5, 2020
A decent M-M romance set in the era of silent films, providing decent expose into the business of making said films, the wheeling and dealing between agents, studio owners and stars, the scandals that would break careers and sell papers, the fickleness of the adoring movie-going masses, the dangers befalling men who fall in love with men. Plus a satisfying ending without too much sturm and drang. 3.5 stars
April 1, 2020
I thought that this well-researched story about silent movie era Hollywood was utterly fascinating. It's 1921, and we're immediately introduced to a young, naive Idaho farmboy named Robinson (AKA "Robbie") Crusoe Goodman, who escaped to Hollywood. From what exactly he is running away is a mystery, one that is slowly revealed as the plot unfolds.
Robbie manages to land a job as a chauffeur for actor Martin Brentwood. The story then alternates between Martin's and Robbie's POV, and we learn that both men are extremely attracted to each other but give the era, they have to be careful to hide their feelings as it could not only ruin their careers but land them in prison.
It's important to remember that this was a time when being gay had life-threatening consequences. It's a time when morality-based censorship and witch hunts occupied first spots in the newspapers, morality clauses played a prominent part in Hollywood contracts, and queer people were beaten and even killed by the police. But despite the dangers, Robby and Martin embark on a cautious clandestine relationship, which becomes even more complicated when Robby is thrust into the limelight of Hollywood, and his place in the motion picture world becomes more prominent.
It's interesting that during this time period, there still wasn't a word for being queer, and instead, someone who had gay tendencies was referred to as "being in the life." You still hear this term occasionally, though in recent years, it's fallen out of favor. It reminded me of the period of my own coming-of-age during which being gay was often called "being a friend of Dorothy."
It was so much fun going behind the scenes of the golden age of silent film and learning firsthand about the rich history of this period and the machinations of the movie industry. Though our two main characters are fictional, many of the elements, including the scandals and tragedies, are based on actual events that affected real people, all of which the author explains in the novel's addendum. For instance, the author includes circumstances surrounding the murder of William Desmond Taylor as well as Fatty Arbuckle's famous trials for rape and manslaughter. These tidbits added a riveting extra layer and dimension to the story, which I especially enjoyed.
In Silent Sin, we got to experience the "real" Hollywood — the Hollywood behind the flashy movie stars and all the glamor. In this way, I thought the world-building was phenomenal. It was so much fun experiencing the movie era that was still in its infancy and was just beginning to take off, still, as of yet, on unsure footing. The author really brought this story to life for me, and I continue to ruminate over it several days later.
I also thought that the author exhibits an uncanny insight into the human condition, and parts of the novel were a pretty honest and raw commentary on humanity. I was amazed at the way Russell was able to weave together historically accurate renderings of the times with a series of unlikely events and coincidences in a way that felt absolutely authentic.
Silent Sin hits at such a visceral level that it's hard to describe with words, and parts of the book were so emotive and moving that they left me gutted. It's a rich story that deals with very loaded issues like grief, homophobia, fear, hatred, regrets, the oftentimes difficult journey of personal growth and loss; but also with courage and the opportunity to start anew. It’s eye-opening — and heartbreaking — to witness how the systemic prejudice and homophobia our characters deal with every day has affected their lives in both small and big ways. I was also surprised by the profound impact the story had on me.
Note that though there is a romance between our two main characters, the romance takes a backseat to the historical aspect of the narrative. This is a low-heat story with all the lovemaking taking place off-screen. So if you're looking for a steamy romance, you won't find that there. What you will find, however, is a sweet and tender romance between two gentle and charming souls living in a time period where being their authentic selves could prove deadly.
All in all, I found Silent Sin to be an exceptionally unique, surprisingly profound, and beautifully written story that is unlike anything I've ever read before. It's a well-written and smoothly plotted novel of many layers with fully realized and endearing characters and will undoubtedly appeal to historical fiction lovers. I also felt that the ending is perfect, and there were definitely tears of happiness and a wonderful grin plastered across my face during those last final pages.
This is the second book that I've read and loved by this author, and I definitely plan on reading more of their books. This one is a gem!
Robbie manages to land a job as a chauffeur for actor Martin Brentwood. The story then alternates between Martin's and Robbie's POV, and we learn that both men are extremely attracted to each other but give the era, they have to be careful to hide their feelings as it could not only ruin their careers but land them in prison.
It's important to remember that this was a time when being gay had life-threatening consequences. It's a time when morality-based censorship and witch hunts occupied first spots in the newspapers, morality clauses played a prominent part in Hollywood contracts, and queer people were beaten and even killed by the police. But despite the dangers, Robby and Martin embark on a cautious clandestine relationship, which becomes even more complicated when Robby is thrust into the limelight of Hollywood, and his place in the motion picture world becomes more prominent.
It's interesting that during this time period, there still wasn't a word for being queer, and instead, someone who had gay tendencies was referred to as "being in the life." You still hear this term occasionally, though in recent years, it's fallen out of favor. It reminded me of the period of my own coming-of-age during which being gay was often called "being a friend of Dorothy."
It was so much fun going behind the scenes of the golden age of silent film and learning firsthand about the rich history of this period and the machinations of the movie industry. Though our two main characters are fictional, many of the elements, including the scandals and tragedies, are based on actual events that affected real people, all of which the author explains in the novel's addendum. For instance, the author includes circumstances surrounding the murder of William Desmond Taylor as well as Fatty Arbuckle's famous trials for rape and manslaughter. These tidbits added a riveting extra layer and dimension to the story, which I especially enjoyed.
In Silent Sin, we got to experience the "real" Hollywood — the Hollywood behind the flashy movie stars and all the glamor. In this way, I thought the world-building was phenomenal. It was so much fun experiencing the movie era that was still in its infancy and was just beginning to take off, still, as of yet, on unsure footing. The author really brought this story to life for me, and I continue to ruminate over it several days later.
I also thought that the author exhibits an uncanny insight into the human condition, and parts of the novel were a pretty honest and raw commentary on humanity. I was amazed at the way Russell was able to weave together historically accurate renderings of the times with a series of unlikely events and coincidences in a way that felt absolutely authentic.
Silent Sin hits at such a visceral level that it's hard to describe with words, and parts of the book were so emotive and moving that they left me gutted. It's a rich story that deals with very loaded issues like grief, homophobia, fear, hatred, regrets, the oftentimes difficult journey of personal growth and loss; but also with courage and the opportunity to start anew. It’s eye-opening — and heartbreaking — to witness how the systemic prejudice and homophobia our characters deal with every day has affected their lives in both small and big ways. I was also surprised by the profound impact the story had on me.
Note that though there is a romance between our two main characters, the romance takes a backseat to the historical aspect of the narrative. This is a low-heat story with all the lovemaking taking place off-screen. So if you're looking for a steamy romance, you won't find that there. What you will find, however, is a sweet and tender romance between two gentle and charming souls living in a time period where being their authentic selves could prove deadly.
All in all, I found Silent Sin to be an exceptionally unique, surprisingly profound, and beautifully written story that is unlike anything I've ever read before. It's a well-written and smoothly plotted novel of many layers with fully realized and endearing characters and will undoubtedly appeal to historical fiction lovers. I also felt that the ending is perfect, and there were definitely tears of happiness and a wonderful grin plastered across my face during those last final pages.
This is the second book that I've read and loved by this author, and I definitely plan on reading more of their books. This one is a gem!
March 12, 2023
Original Audiobook Review March 2023:
It's been a year-and-a-half since I read Silent Sin and I loved listening to it just as much as I loved the original read. Greg Boudreaux brings the characters and the era to life in a way that keeps you on the edge of your seat even, if like me, you already read the story and know it. 98% of the audiobooks I listen to are books I've previously read because I tend to zone out occasionally and that is no reflection on the story but because I listen mostly while working on the computer or in the kitchen and before I know it I'm concentrating on the task at hand and not the story, knowing the tale previously allows me not to have to try and find where I "zoned out".
Anywho, back to the narrator. One of my boxes to tick that make an audiobook go from good to great is the expectation of hearing a sponsor's ad. Now for those who don't know what I mean, I have been a collector of old radio programs since I was 10 and if you have never heard an ORP from the 30s & 40s they have one sponsor unlike the multi-commercials of television today. Some shows incorporate the sponsor into the show others take a break for the ad in the middle. So when I say "expectation of hearing a sponsor's ad" what I'm really looking for is a narration that gets me so involved I feel like I'm listening to an episode of Screen Actor's Playhouse where they often would bring a radio version of a hit movie to the masses. Greg Boudreaux brings EJ Russell's words to life in such a manner and considering the setting is Old Hollywood I had a higher level of this expectation and he definitely delivered. I look forward to re-listening for years to come.
Original Review July Book of the Month 2021:
Silent Sin is brilliant!
I've been looking for a story set in Old Hollywood for about 3 years and when this popped up in a FB group rec request I one-clicked immediately. 2020 screwed with my reading mojo so unfortunately I just got around to reading it and I loved it! EJ Russell really sets scene of the silent era, incorporating real historical facts and scandals that add just the right level of reality into her fictional story. Don't worry, Silent Sin isn't a tell-all, Hollywood documentary but it definitely shows the author's respect for the past with the balance of reality and fiction.
As for the characters, watching Robbie's journey from "runaway" country bumpkin to studio chauffer to stand-in to ???(well I don't want to give away all the lad's secrets😉) is an uplifting, heartfelt tale of entertainment. Seeing Martin's journey of trying to stay true to who he is and who he lets the studio bosses and fans see makes you smile, laugh, and a few times you just want to shake him. When their paths cross you just know that it's fate but you also know it won't be easy but it will definitely be captivating. You can't help but want to wrap them both up in Mama Bear Hugs and tell them everything will be okay, of course there are a few times I want to smack them too and scream but that's what makes Silent Sin such a delight.
I have featured some of EJ Russell's books on my blog before but Silent Sin is my first read. For me it's the perfect introduction to a new author, Sin ticks so many of my boxes:
historical✅
romance✅
Old Hollywood✅
friendships✅
author's respect for the era✅
plenty of heart✅
I have to admit one of my favorite moments comes between Robbie and Martin's manager Sid, the actual activity happens off-page but we learn about it and it put the biggest smile on my face and a loud "YES!" in my internal monologue. Just another example of how the author has written more than romance and how sucked into the story I became.
Again, Silent Sin is brilliant!
It's been a year-and-a-half since I read Silent Sin and I loved listening to it just as much as I loved the original read. Greg Boudreaux brings the characters and the era to life in a way that keeps you on the edge of your seat even, if like me, you already read the story and know it. 98% of the audiobooks I listen to are books I've previously read because I tend to zone out occasionally and that is no reflection on the story but because I listen mostly while working on the computer or in the kitchen and before I know it I'm concentrating on the task at hand and not the story, knowing the tale previously allows me not to have to try and find where I "zoned out".
Anywho, back to the narrator. One of my boxes to tick that make an audiobook go from good to great is the expectation of hearing a sponsor's ad. Now for those who don't know what I mean, I have been a collector of old radio programs since I was 10 and if you have never heard an ORP from the 30s & 40s they have one sponsor unlike the multi-commercials of television today. Some shows incorporate the sponsor into the show others take a break for the ad in the middle. So when I say "expectation of hearing a sponsor's ad" what I'm really looking for is a narration that gets me so involved I feel like I'm listening to an episode of Screen Actor's Playhouse where they often would bring a radio version of a hit movie to the masses. Greg Boudreaux brings EJ Russell's words to life in such a manner and considering the setting is Old Hollywood I had a higher level of this expectation and he definitely delivered. I look forward to re-listening for years to come.
Original Review July Book of the Month 2021:
Silent Sin is brilliant!
I've been looking for a story set in Old Hollywood for about 3 years and when this popped up in a FB group rec request I one-clicked immediately. 2020 screwed with my reading mojo so unfortunately I just got around to reading it and I loved it! EJ Russell really sets scene of the silent era, incorporating real historical facts and scandals that add just the right level of reality into her fictional story. Don't worry, Silent Sin isn't a tell-all, Hollywood documentary but it definitely shows the author's respect for the past with the balance of reality and fiction.
As for the characters, watching Robbie's journey from "runaway" country bumpkin to studio chauffer to stand-in to ???(well I don't want to give away all the lad's secrets😉) is an uplifting, heartfelt tale of entertainment. Seeing Martin's journey of trying to stay true to who he is and who he lets the studio bosses and fans see makes you smile, laugh, and a few times you just want to shake him. When their paths cross you just know that it's fate but you also know it won't be easy but it will definitely be captivating. You can't help but want to wrap them both up in Mama Bear Hugs and tell them everything will be okay, of course there are a few times I want to smack them too and scream but that's what makes Silent Sin such a delight.
I have featured some of EJ Russell's books on my blog before but Silent Sin is my first read. For me it's the perfect introduction to a new author, Sin ticks so many of my boxes:
historical✅
romance✅
Old Hollywood✅
friendships✅
author's respect for the era✅
plenty of heart✅
I have to admit one of my favorite moments comes between Robbie and Martin's manager Sid, the actual activity happens off-page but we learn about it and it put the biggest smile on my face and a loud "YES!" in my internal monologue. Just another example of how the author has written more than romance and how sucked into the story I became.
Again, Silent Sin is brilliant!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews