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The Silence
Gail wakes in the middle of the night to everyone’s worst nightmare.
She can’t move, can’t speak and a stranger is standing over her.
Then everything goes black.
Gail knows she didn’t dream it. Or him. But the police don’t believe her.
Two years have passed and she has tried to move on, forget what happened.
Until she meets a woman with a story identical to hers. Even down to the date of the attack, exactly one year after her own.
As the anniversary approaches, there is one week left until he will strike again.
Can Gail save the next woman from the same fate? And at what cost?
She can’t move, can’t speak and a stranger is standing over her.
Then everything goes black.
Gail knows she didn’t dream it. Or him. But the police don’t believe her.
Two years have passed and she has tried to move on, forget what happened.
Until she meets a woman with a story identical to hers. Even down to the date of the attack, exactly one year after her own.
As the anniversary approaches, there is one week left until he will strike again.
Can Gail save the next woman from the same fate? And at what cost?
400 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 8, 2023
115 people are currently reading
827 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 170 reviews
April 21, 2023
Please see the publishers warning about triggers.
3.5 rounded up
Gale Reynolds reports a terrifying sexual assault to the police with DS Shona White interviewing her. Although Shona believes her she is told to drop the case as Gail has previously made a “false report“. However, two years later Gail is trying to move on with her life, although it is understandably incredibly difficult. Then Gail meets another victim with an identical story to hers and one chilling “coincidence“. What will Gail do? Will she take what action she can before he strikes again? The story is told via three points of view.
This is a brave book and I commend the author for the job she does here. It’s obviously hard-hitting as it should be, it portrays the suffering and trauma also as it should but it’s not overdone though still makes for grim reading. There’s much to reflect on here as not only has Gail and others been forced to endure the trauma of an assault there is the trauma of reporting it and the trauma of what comes after making that report. It’s chilling how some victims can be treated, especially on social media and this is done horribly well in the book with keyboard warriors and incels doing their despicable worst. There is accuracy too in the amount of assaults that never make it to trial often due to insufficient evidence and your heart breaks for those people.
Gail’s perspective is very compelling and powerful, I like how she addresses her attacker making it so personal which hits all the harder. It makes you feel sad, shocked and moved in equal proportions. Shona’s point of view is also good and you feel the frustration of believing a victim with the inability to secure a conviction. The rapists narrative is horrifying as you’d expect sending shivers down the spine ,
As the story progresses, it encompasses a number of things such as female bonds and friendship, which gives the courage to take back control of your life, in this case dramatically.
Although there is much to praise it does get a bit repetitive and the writing is a bit flat on occasions and the pacing is somewhat uneven. I guess the perpetrator about halfway through so there’s no huge surprise there.
Overall though, it’s well worth reading if you can because it does make some very thought-provoking points.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Avon Books for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
3.5 rounded up
Gale Reynolds reports a terrifying sexual assault to the police with DS Shona White interviewing her. Although Shona believes her she is told to drop the case as Gail has previously made a “false report“. However, two years later Gail is trying to move on with her life, although it is understandably incredibly difficult. Then Gail meets another victim with an identical story to hers and one chilling “coincidence“. What will Gail do? Will she take what action she can before he strikes again? The story is told via three points of view.
This is a brave book and I commend the author for the job she does here. It’s obviously hard-hitting as it should be, it portrays the suffering and trauma also as it should but it’s not overdone though still makes for grim reading. There’s much to reflect on here as not only has Gail and others been forced to endure the trauma of an assault there is the trauma of reporting it and the trauma of what comes after making that report. It’s chilling how some victims can be treated, especially on social media and this is done horribly well in the book with keyboard warriors and incels doing their despicable worst. There is accuracy too in the amount of assaults that never make it to trial often due to insufficient evidence and your heart breaks for those people.
Gail’s perspective is very compelling and powerful, I like how she addresses her attacker making it so personal which hits all the harder. It makes you feel sad, shocked and moved in equal proportions. Shona’s point of view is also good and you feel the frustration of believing a victim with the inability to secure a conviction. The rapists narrative is horrifying as you’d expect sending shivers down the spine ,
As the story progresses, it encompasses a number of things such as female bonds and friendship, which gives the courage to take back control of your life, in this case dramatically.
Although there is much to praise it does get a bit repetitive and the writing is a bit flat on occasions and the pacing is somewhat uneven. I guess the perpetrator about halfway through so there’s no huge surprise there.
Overall though, it’s well worth reading if you can because it does make some very thought-provoking points.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Avon Books for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
November 3, 2025
Trigger warning- rape
Fast paced book about a woman who is haunted by not 1 but 2 assaults on her by different men years apart.
She tried to report them to the police but was blown off by them and no investigation occurred.
Still haunted a few years later (who wouldn’t be!?), she is at a support group when another woman stood up to speak about the rape that she experienced.
It’s the exact same set of circumstances. They talk after the meeting, become friends and eventually decide that something needs to be done about this serial rapist - if the police won’t handle it, they will.
Fast paced book about a woman who is haunted by not 1 but 2 assaults on her by different men years apart.
She tried to report them to the police but was blown off by them and no investigation occurred.
Still haunted a few years later (who wouldn’t be!?), she is at a support group when another woman stood up to speak about the rape that she experienced.
It’s the exact same set of circumstances. They talk after the meeting, become friends and eventually decide that something needs to be done about this serial rapist - if the police won’t handle it, they will.
May 9, 2023
I have read and enjoyed the authors previous work, so I automatically requested The Silence without knowing the fully what it was about. The Silence is about rape. So, if you are sensitive this is not for you.
Gail Porter wakes up in the middle of the night to find out that she has been drugged and raped in her own home. She tries to report it to the police, but because of some inconsistences the police doesn’t believe her. Two years later she is still struggling to come to terms with it. She visits a support group and meets Martha who was also has been attacked with similar characterises to hers and further investigation find out it is the same attacker. When Martha tells her that the attack was filmed and put on a website called ‘The sanctuary’ where men think that they have the power over women, and they deserved all they endured. The pair are sickened and devise a plan to get revenge not only on their attacker, but others like him.
Thank you, Avon, for a copy of ‘The Silence’ by Katerina Diamond. This is a dark and disturbing thriller from the author and a highly sensitive subject regarding rape and sexual assault and the author has done well in portraying it. This has well developed characters and storyline and I felt for Gail in what she went through and because nobody would believe her that she had to resort to sorting out her problems herself. I am not sure everything would happen that is portrayed in this story. But it is a good story, nevertheless. 4 stars from me.
Gail Porter wakes up in the middle of the night to find out that she has been drugged and raped in her own home. She tries to report it to the police, but because of some inconsistences the police doesn’t believe her. Two years later she is still struggling to come to terms with it. She visits a support group and meets Martha who was also has been attacked with similar characterises to hers and further investigation find out it is the same attacker. When Martha tells her that the attack was filmed and put on a website called ‘The sanctuary’ where men think that they have the power over women, and they deserved all they endured. The pair are sickened and devise a plan to get revenge not only on their attacker, but others like him.
Thank you, Avon, for a copy of ‘The Silence’ by Katerina Diamond. This is a dark and disturbing thriller from the author and a highly sensitive subject regarding rape and sexual assault and the author has done well in portraying it. This has well developed characters and storyline and I felt for Gail in what she went through and because nobody would believe her that she had to resort to sorting out her problems herself. I am not sure everything would happen that is portrayed in this story. But it is a good story, nevertheless. 4 stars from me.
April 15, 2023
I am a big fan of Katerina Diamonds books and jumped at the chance to read her new stand alone, The Silence. What an emotional and unsettling story. This author is not afraid to tackle to tough subjects, and she does so with care and compassion. This is a very dark and graphic read and won’t be for everyone.
Gail and Martha find each other a support group for rape survivors. They realise that they have been abused by the same man, on the same date, 3 years apart. Both women have been let down by the system that is meant to protect them, so they take matters into their own hands.
It is an unsettling read and it is meant to be. Reading what these women have been through, and are still going through. How it has changed them and how they live. Their withdrawal from their life, their friends and family. Unable to sleep, unable to trust. It is heartbreaking. And so well written.
Thanks to Avon Books UK for my advanced copy of this book to read. Publishes on June 8th.
Gail and Martha find each other a support group for rape survivors. They realise that they have been abused by the same man, on the same date, 3 years apart. Both women have been let down by the system that is meant to protect them, so they take matters into their own hands.
It is an unsettling read and it is meant to be. Reading what these women have been through, and are still going through. How it has changed them and how they live. Their withdrawal from their life, their friends and family. Unable to sleep, unable to trust. It is heartbreaking. And so well written.
Thanks to Avon Books UK for my advanced copy of this book to read. Publishes on June 8th.
May 31, 2023
**TRIGGER WARNING** This story is about rape. It's also quite violent.
Gail wakes in the middle of the night to everyone's worst nightmare. She can't move. can't speak and a stranger is standing over her. Then everything goes black. Gail knows she didn't dream it. Or him. But the police don't believe her. That was two years ago. She has tried to move on, forget what happened. Until she meets his next victim. The woman's story is identical to hers. And the attack happened exactly one year later. There is one week left before he will strike again.
This is quite a dark read and definitely won't be for everyone, especially the fainthearted. As I'm a fan of Katerina Diamond's books, I requested this book without reading the premise. When I realised what the book was about, I did hesitate over reading it. I never feel comfortable reading about the subject matter. After saying all that, it was quite a good read. The story follows detectives who ignore reports and the victims who struggle after they've been attacked, cases are not believed or taken seriously. This is a tense and chilling read.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #AvonBooksUK and the author #KaterinaDiamond for my ARC of #TheSilence in exchange for an honest review.
Gail wakes in the middle of the night to everyone's worst nightmare. She can't move. can't speak and a stranger is standing over her. Then everything goes black. Gail knows she didn't dream it. Or him. But the police don't believe her. That was two years ago. She has tried to move on, forget what happened. Until she meets his next victim. The woman's story is identical to hers. And the attack happened exactly one year later. There is one week left before he will strike again.
This is quite a dark read and definitely won't be for everyone, especially the fainthearted. As I'm a fan of Katerina Diamond's books, I requested this book without reading the premise. When I realised what the book was about, I did hesitate over reading it. I never feel comfortable reading about the subject matter. After saying all that, it was quite a good read. The story follows detectives who ignore reports and the victims who struggle after they've been attacked, cases are not believed or taken seriously. This is a tense and chilling read.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #AvonBooksUK and the author #KaterinaDiamond for my ARC of #TheSilence in exchange for an honest review.
June 30, 2023
I've enjoyed this author's other books, so I was keen to start this one.
In truth it's more the subject matter, than the mystery that's important as Diamond delicately tackles the topic of sexual assort and the trauma for the victim - especially when there's not enough evidence and the police seem unwilling to help.
Gail still suffering from her experience attends a support meeting where she meets Martha, who had the exact same attack a year later.
With the June 12th anniversary fast approaching, the pair are determined for the perpetrator not to attack again.
That's the main thriller aspect of the novel. It's slightly obvious who was behind the attacks - so the mystery element isn't the strongest.
The way in which a tough sensitive subject is handled makes this worth a read.
In truth it's more the subject matter, than the mystery that's important as Diamond delicately tackles the topic of sexual assort and the trauma for the victim - especially when there's not enough evidence and the police seem unwilling to help.
Gail still suffering from her experience attends a support meeting where she meets Martha, who had the exact same attack a year later.
With the June 12th anniversary fast approaching, the pair are determined for the perpetrator not to attack again.
That's the main thriller aspect of the novel. It's slightly obvious who was behind the attacks - so the mystery element isn't the strongest.
The way in which a tough sensitive subject is handled makes this worth a read.
July 16, 2023
Please be careful going into this one ❤️ read all the trigger warnings before starting ⚠️ I have no problems with reading books that include hard subject matters. But this one felt different It was like reading a diary of a person that had gone through this. I't felt personal, I can't explain it better. This just wasn't for me 😪
June 8, 2023
The Silence by Katerina Diamond is a psychological thriller.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Avon Books and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions)
Gail Reynolds wakes up in the middle of the night, unable to move. Someone has broken into her house, drugged her, and whatever they gave her has paralyzed her. Something is over her face, and a man is raping her. She can't even call for help. Her worst nightmare, and it only gets worse when she reports the crime. The police don't believe her, saying this isn't the first time she's reported an assault. But that was different, and this is now. It doesn't matter, they won't listen, and she is persuaded that since there is no evidence, nothing can be done. She leaves the police station angry.
Gail can't move on. A couple of years later, when she attends a self-help group, she hears a woman's story that is identical to her own. She is no longer alone. Between Gail and Martha, they determine that it was indeed, the same rapist, and he will soon rape again.....because both of their rapes occurred on June 12th. It must mean something to the rapist, but what? They are sure there are more victims out there.
Gail returns to the police officer who insisted they couldn't do anything about her rape. Shona White is now a DI, and has always regretted being forced to shut down Gail's case. She is determined to make things right.
But Gail no longer trusts the police, and decides to take things into her own hands.
My Opinions:
First, this was a rather depressing read. So many victims that don't come forward, and so many perpetrators who never get caught. The book shows the impact rape has on the victims at the time, and for years to come. It is just sad.
But this book is about more than rapists that go unpunished. It is about victims who can't move on, and it is about anger and revenge camouflaged as justice. It is also about friendship and courage.
The book was told through different perspectives - Gail's, Shona's and that of the rapist. This was done really well, but I think it would have been better if the chapters had names attached to the titles, because often I wasn't sure whose chapter it was until I was a few paragraphs in. At times the writing was repetitive. As well, I sometimes found the characters rather unlikeable, although I understood the reasons for their thoughts and actions, so perhaps that was just me.
Overall, although it was a rather disturbing and dark topic, the author handled it very well. It is a powerful and mesmerizing read, but it won't be for everyone.
For a more complete review of this book and others, (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, as well as author information and contact details), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/
May 12, 2023
I always enjoy reading Katerina Diamond’s books and her new thriller The Silence certainly lived up to my expectations.
Lots of great characters and a story that had me on the edge of my seat.
I couldn’t put this book down and read it in one day.
Thank you to NetGalley and Avon Books UK for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
Lots of great characters and a story that had me on the edge of my seat.
I couldn’t put this book down and read it in one day.
Thank you to NetGalley and Avon Books UK for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
May 17, 2024
Gail Porter wakes up in the middle of the night to find out that she has been drugged and raped in her own home. She tries to report it to the police, but because of some inconsistences the police doesn’t believe her. Two years later she is still struggling to come to terms with it. She visits a support group and meets Martha who was also has been attacked with similar characterises to hers and further investigation find out it is the same attacker. When Martha tells her previous attack was put on a website called ‘The sanctuary’ where men think that they have the power over women, and they deserved all they endured. The pair are sickened and devise a plan to get revenge not only on their attacker, but others like him.
June 12, 2023
A book about rape is never an easy read but this book delves deep into the psyche of one victim. The victim reported her rape to the police and was told in no uncertain terms that there was not enough evidence to prosecute. If that wasn't bad enough she is not believed by friends and family. Moves away and tries to start again. Still timid and afraid of strangers she is raped again in her own home. This time she decides not to report it and tries to find her rapist herself. During her investigation she goes to a self help group and one victims story resonates with what she went through. This is a very thought provoking read which I found impossible to put down. A victim's insight in how the police and others treated her and how she spirals down until she snaps . This author has done it again!!!!!
Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC.
Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC.
November 21, 2023
"You're a part of me now, and I can't accept that. I need to sever the connection between us, and there is only one way I can think of to do that. One of us needs to die, and I have decided it's not going to be me."
First of all, check the trigger warnings of this one before you read. The entire story focuses on rape so if this is something that you struggle with, please don't read it.
I've read all these authors' previous books, and I've loved every single one. I couldn't wait to read this one, and I was not disappointed. After the initial assault, the story slowed down a little, but it was a brilliant read. I did figure quite early on who the rapist was, but I enjoyed seeing how it all played out.
First of all, check the trigger warnings of this one before you read. The entire story focuses on rape so if this is something that you struggle with, please don't read it.
I've read all these authors' previous books, and I've loved every single one. I couldn't wait to read this one, and I was not disappointed. After the initial assault, the story slowed down a little, but it was a brilliant read. I did figure quite early on who the rapist was, but I enjoyed seeing how it all played out.
May 31, 2023
3.5 stars
This is a good read but for awareness, this book is about women who have been raped.
It’s sensitively done but I think this story could be a trigger for some people.
Gail goes to the Police after being raped in her home but is told there will be no evidence as the rapist made her wash with bleach afterwards and carried out the deed on a plastic sheet which he took away.
Gail is left feeling bereft and very annoyed with the Police.
She goes to a support group and hears a woman recount the same details that happened to her and after speaking, they realise it was the same man.
Gail is determined that this man is caught and sets out to find him.
A good read but a tricky subject to write about.
Thanks to Avon Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
This is a good read but for awareness, this book is about women who have been raped.
It’s sensitively done but I think this story could be a trigger for some people.
Gail goes to the Police after being raped in her home but is told there will be no evidence as the rapist made her wash with bleach afterwards and carried out the deed on a plastic sheet which he took away.
Gail is left feeling bereft and very annoyed with the Police.
She goes to a support group and hears a woman recount the same details that happened to her and after speaking, they realise it was the same man.
Gail is determined that this man is caught and sets out to find him.
A good read but a tricky subject to write about.
Thanks to Avon Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
July 23, 2023
This is one of my favourite authors so I was very excited to start this book.
When Gail reports a rape that occurred in her own home by a stranger, she is told by the police there is not enough evidence and nothing comes of it.
A few tears later Gail meets Martha at a support group and is astonished to hear that Martha was raped in the same circumstances she was.
Gail and Martha become friends and discover they were both raped on the same night, several years apart. With that night fast approaching they work together to find out who the culprit is.
This is a very compelling read and I would definitely recommend this book as it's fast paced and full of suspense.
Thank you to Netgalley for my copy in exchange for an honest review.
When Gail reports a rape that occurred in her own home by a stranger, she is told by the police there is not enough evidence and nothing comes of it.
A few tears later Gail meets Martha at a support group and is astonished to hear that Martha was raped in the same circumstances she was.
Gail and Martha become friends and discover they were both raped on the same night, several years apart. With that night fast approaching they work together to find out who the culprit is.
This is a very compelling read and I would definitely recommend this book as it's fast paced and full of suspense.
Thank you to Netgalley for my copy in exchange for an honest review.
April 3, 2023
I really hate rating books so low. But I did not enjoy this one. The topic of this story is important and I admire Katerina for going down this route. But, I do not feel like it was well accomplished. It was almost a DNF, but I felt obliged to finish as it was an arc.
The main character I found irritating, which makes me feel bad considering her back story and it all became quite unrealistic and far fetched, in my opinion. I understand how someone in her situation may have a vendetta, but this just wasn't it.
The characters as a whole I also found to all be fairly unlikeable. There was no depth, to any of them.
I also guessed the ending about a quarter of the way through the book, I had hoped there was another twist that made it not so, but it wasn't to be. It was very predictable, even for me.
The main character I found irritating, which makes me feel bad considering her back story and it all became quite unrealistic and far fetched, in my opinion. I understand how someone in her situation may have a vendetta, but this just wasn't it.
The characters as a whole I also found to all be fairly unlikeable. There was no depth, to any of them.
I also guessed the ending about a quarter of the way through the book, I had hoped there was another twist that made it not so, but it wasn't to be. It was very predictable, even for me.
July 26, 2025
2.5 - found this book in my airbnb and thought i’d give it a go… i didn’t really like the main character and the plot seemed a bit too far fetched but cliche at the same time. the perpetrator was also quite obvious as well. was an easy read and easy to follow which was good but overall a bit bleh :/
July 11, 2023
I adore Katerina Diamond’s Imogen Gray and Adrian Miles series and have read her standalone books so seeing another from this author I was really excited to read it.
This book was so well written, it started off slowly as the storyline background was laid and the content picked up and twist were revealed. I feel it needed to be a slow burn in the start of the novel due to the content so for me I didn’t mind as knew the theme of the book needed to be covered thoroughly.
The portrayal of sexual abuse and rape was written really well and was hard to read at times due to the content. The psychological element was spot on and having first hand experiences of some elements I really felt pulled back into the past as parts were described really well. It’s brutal, shocking and disturbing.
Overall, yes at times it’s hard to read but it’s written with compassion and is well researched. The brutal truth of women putting up with sexual advances, being attacked and subsequently not believed is sadly truthful.
Wonderfully written book and looking forward to reading the authors next book.
This book was so well written, it started off slowly as the storyline background was laid and the content picked up and twist were revealed. I feel it needed to be a slow burn in the start of the novel due to the content so for me I didn’t mind as knew the theme of the book needed to be covered thoroughly.
The portrayal of sexual abuse and rape was written really well and was hard to read at times due to the content. The psychological element was spot on and having first hand experiences of some elements I really felt pulled back into the past as parts were described really well. It’s brutal, shocking and disturbing.
Overall, yes at times it’s hard to read but it’s written with compassion and is well researched. The brutal truth of women putting up with sexual advances, being attacked and subsequently not believed is sadly truthful.
Wonderfully written book and looking forward to reading the authors next book.
July 10, 2023
This was a slow start for me, and in the beginning, it took me a while to get to it. On the third attempt, I got into it, and then it was an afternoon read, I just had to finish it. I had thought it was one of two people, so my instincts worked, I then just wanted to know how everyone else would realise.
This story is about rape survivors, and so there are a lot of triggers throughout.
I waa given an advance copy by the publishers and netgalley but the review is entirely my own
This story is about rape survivors, and so there are a lot of triggers throughout.
I waa given an advance copy by the publishers and netgalley but the review is entirely my own
May 6, 2023
I really like this author’s books so was really interested in reading this. There are some trigger warnings for it however as it does contain scenes of sexual assault and rape. Gail is sexually assaulted during the night in her own home. When she reports it to the police, despite the protestations from the interviewing officer, Gail is persuaded not to go ahead with the report. A couple of years later, she is still struggling with what happened, but whilst attending a rape survivor group discovers she may not be the only victim.
This was a really dark read with quite a difficult subject covered. It was however gripping and held my attention from the first page. I liked Detective Sergeant Shona White and enjoyed the investigation into the attacks. I have to admit to not liking Gail as much though. Whilst I was horrified with what happened to her, for some reason I liked her less as the book moved on. The subject of online forums for men who had been accused of rape was shocking and saddened me to think that there are forums for men to vent their anger about women.
Told from the perspectives of Gail and DS White, the story twisted and turned throughout. The author kept the identity of the attacker well under wraps and I didn’t guess who it was until it was revealed. Would recommend, but please be aware of the triggers.
This was a really dark read with quite a difficult subject covered. It was however gripping and held my attention from the first page. I liked Detective Sergeant Shona White and enjoyed the investigation into the attacks. I have to admit to not liking Gail as much though. Whilst I was horrified with what happened to her, for some reason I liked her less as the book moved on. The subject of online forums for men who had been accused of rape was shocking and saddened me to think that there are forums for men to vent their anger about women.
Told from the perspectives of Gail and DS White, the story twisted and turned throughout. The author kept the identity of the attacker well under wraps and I didn’t guess who it was until it was revealed. Would recommend, but please be aware of the triggers.
May 10, 2023
⚠️This is a book about Rape!! So please be cautious⚠️
💉Crime Thriller
💉 Thought provoking
💉 Twists
💉 Chilling
💉 Vigilante
So I’ve enjoyed Imogene Grey series and the work by this author. I applaud the author for tackling such a tough subject! Highlighting the struggles victims face when reporting rape, the statics of unreported and about that do not get prosecuted. The author highlights how men can just get away with taking what they want because they “ believe” they can!
This book had so much potential to be a great book especially with the topic, but the author lost me. I really felt for Gail and the pain she was going through from the start. But as we progressed I really disliked Gail and her friend Martha (I know I’m a horrible person). None of the characters had any depth to them unfortunately.
The transition to victimhood/ vigilante lead to a couple of the characters to be completely unhinged in such a way that was unrealistic for me. I totally understand why someone of her background may have a vendatta but the author just didn’t quite get it.
The couldn’t get with the constant repeating, “why am I not the only one” “I wasn’t special” over and over again.
I felt that the twist was easy to identify to be honest. Honestly it was such a shame as an important topic like this the author could really have made this more hard hitting, but she lost me on this.
💉Crime Thriller
💉 Thought provoking
💉 Twists
💉 Chilling
💉 Vigilante
So I’ve enjoyed Imogene Grey series and the work by this author. I applaud the author for tackling such a tough subject! Highlighting the struggles victims face when reporting rape, the statics of unreported and about that do not get prosecuted. The author highlights how men can just get away with taking what they want because they “ believe” they can!
This book had so much potential to be a great book especially with the topic, but the author lost me. I really felt for Gail and the pain she was going through from the start. But as we progressed I really disliked Gail and her friend Martha (I know I’m a horrible person). None of the characters had any depth to them unfortunately.
The transition to victimhood/ vigilante lead to a couple of the characters to be completely unhinged in such a way that was unrealistic for me. I totally understand why someone of her background may have a vendatta but the author just didn’t quite get it.
The couldn’t get with the constant repeating, “why am I not the only one” “I wasn’t special” over and over again.
I felt that the twist was easy to identify to be honest. Honestly it was such a shame as an important topic like this the author could really have made this more hard hitting, but she lost me on this.
February 5, 2024
A read that did not enthral me . I just couldn't get interested in the characters and there was no suspense to this crime thriller
June 10, 2023
I was kindly sent this ARC by Netgalley and Avon Books in exchange for my review.
Firstly, I would like to point out the importance of trigger warnings with a book like this. The book doesn’t just reference rape and sexual assault the whole book centres around this harrowing subject and it’s pretty full on.
I have not read any of Katerina Diamond’s previous books but I was gripped from the start! The storyline while horrific is handled really well and covers some aspects of rape and the reporting system and the way police handle rape cases that are too infrequently talked about. While I know the book is fiction I am also aware of the statistics of getting sexual assaults to prosecution and the instances of rape reports not being believed or taken seriously enough.
The characters are developed well and I could feel Gail’s anguish and torture throughout the book, also her determination not to remain a victim. Shona, our detective, was another strong woman and I loved her desire to make amends.
The action is fast paced and tense throughout. I knocked off half a star for guessing the rapist, but it didn’t detract from the ending which was high energy and got my pulse racing.
Will definitely read more from this author and give it 4.5 Stars! A near perfect crime thriller.
June 25, 2023
✨ Please see the trigger warnings for this! ✨
Finally! I had been waiting for this story for what felt like years! I missed my crime novels, and this one didn’t disappoint. I was able to piece together who the perpetrator was when I got halfway and I couldn’t wait for them to find out it was him. I do wish that there was less of the mental chat with ‘the guy’, because it seemed like she wasn’t healing from anything and it was sending her mental, then there was a slight unhealthy obsession with Martha… or what I thought! 👀
I was happy that Gail finally got her own back! Honestly it was well deserved, and I wish there was more of that anger instead of the chatting in her mind she was having. I get it though, after going through an ordeal like that, I get the mental turmoil, I just wanted to see her anger more than that! That’s the only reason this got 4 ⭐️‘s!!
I’m glad you’re back, my heart is happier than ever now ❤️!
Finally! I had been waiting for this story for what felt like years! I missed my crime novels, and this one didn’t disappoint. I was able to piece together who the perpetrator was when I got halfway and I couldn’t wait for them to find out it was him. I do wish that there was less of the mental chat with ‘the guy’, because it seemed like she wasn’t healing from anything and it was sending her mental, then there was a slight unhealthy obsession with Martha… or what I thought! 👀
I was happy that Gail finally got her own back! Honestly it was well deserved, and I wish there was more of that anger instead of the chatting in her mind she was having. I get it though, after going through an ordeal like that, I get the mental turmoil, I just wanted to see her anger more than that! That’s the only reason this got 4 ⭐️‘s!!
I’m glad you’re back, my heart is happier than ever now ❤️!
April 19, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this book.
Gail is a single woman who wakes one night and is in the middle of being attacked by an unknown male. Flipping forward a couple of years and Gail is struggling to move on. After attending a group for women in her situation, she meets another woman who was also raped in disturbingly identical circumstances. Gail befriends this lady, and together they’re determined to hunt the perpetrator down, now that the police are finally listening to them.
This was a standalone thriller from this author, and a thriller this was. The storyline deals with rape and sexual assault, and is a taboo subject, but the author dealt with it honestly and with the care it deserved. The characters were well written, and I especially liked Shona, the detective. A well written storyline which was thought out and dealt with sensitively.
Gail is a single woman who wakes one night and is in the middle of being attacked by an unknown male. Flipping forward a couple of years and Gail is struggling to move on. After attending a group for women in her situation, she meets another woman who was also raped in disturbingly identical circumstances. Gail befriends this lady, and together they’re determined to hunt the perpetrator down, now that the police are finally listening to them.
This was a standalone thriller from this author, and a thriller this was. The storyline deals with rape and sexual assault, and is a taboo subject, but the author dealt with it honestly and with the care it deserved. The characters were well written, and I especially liked Shona, the detective. A well written storyline which was thought out and dealt with sensitively.
January 17, 2024
I loved the series with Miles and Grey so I was excited to read one the standalone books by Katerina Diamond and I wasn't disappointed, I really enjoyed it.
Right from the start it was gripping and had me hooked, and, the book held its pacing perfectly for me. I loved how dark it was and as the book progressed it just kept getting darker and more disturbing, like a horrific accident that you don't want to see but just can't tear your eyes away from.
I went through such a range of emotions reading this book and I found myself surprised - not unpleasantly - by how suffocating and visceral the tension was. As the events of the book unfold and the events that came before the book are realised, I felt like I was right there with them, a bystander who had to witness it. I felt everything that the characters felt and it made their experiences all the more graphic and shattering.
The book covers hard hitting issues but it is down with sensitivity in my opinion. I really enjoyed it and can't wait for the authors next book.
Right from the start it was gripping and had me hooked, and, the book held its pacing perfectly for me. I loved how dark it was and as the book progressed it just kept getting darker and more disturbing, like a horrific accident that you don't want to see but just can't tear your eyes away from.
I went through such a range of emotions reading this book and I found myself surprised - not unpleasantly - by how suffocating and visceral the tension was. As the events of the book unfold and the events that came before the book are realised, I felt like I was right there with them, a bystander who had to witness it. I felt everything that the characters felt and it made their experiences all the more graphic and shattering.
The book covers hard hitting issues but it is down with sensitivity in my opinion. I really enjoyed it and can't wait for the authors next book.
June 8, 2023
I know I am in for an intense, gripping and gory read whenever I start one of Diamond's books and this is no different. This plot is chilling, terrifying and completely believable. It is also incredibly difficult to read and is definitely not for the faint hearted. 'The Silence' absolutely kept my interest and I was gripped and desperate to know what the resolution would be. I did, however, think the plot was obvious. I would have liked there to have been something different that would have surprised me. Having said this, I enjoyed getting it right. 'The Silence' is another stunning fast-paced crime read from Diamond. This is uncomfortable but exhilarating reading. Thank you to NetGalley and Avon Books UK for an advance copy.
February 3, 2024
It's rare for me to reach 67% of a book and to decide not to finish it, but this is the case with 'The Silence'.
The theme is an interesting one, exposing a crime against women (and some men) which is woefully neglected by our society. The characters are interesting and the narrative unusual. However when the author decided how to deal out revenge, she lost this reader.
I don't want to give away the plot, and I don't even know how it will end, but I realised I was not enjoying the book at this point, and decided to set it aside. Perhaps the current wave of violent crime hitting our headlines at the moment has influenced my decision not to read about any more at the moment.
Three stars. I won't finish it, and I won't read it again.
The theme is an interesting one, exposing a crime against women (and some men) which is woefully neglected by our society. The characters are interesting and the narrative unusual. However when the author decided how to deal out revenge, she lost this reader.
I don't want to give away the plot, and I don't even know how it will end, but I realised I was not enjoying the book at this point, and decided to set it aside. Perhaps the current wave of violent crime hitting our headlines at the moment has influenced my decision not to read about any more at the moment.
Three stars. I won't finish it, and I won't read it again.
July 16, 2023
An interesting book, taking a difficult look into what happens after a rape, when the system fails you. However, I found the writing flat and repetitive, and struggled to really get into it. I’d also guessed the identity of the rapist early on, so it wasn’t much of a shock. What did shock was . I’m not a fan of the perpetrator’’s story interwoven into the narrative, but this one was intriguing, though (again) rather flat. There were unanswered questions, though, especially what changed the rapist from being so physically repulsive to pleasant.
(Thanks to NetGalley for a review copy)
(Thanks to NetGalley for a review copy)
October 23, 2024
I hate to admit this as I am a HUGE fan of the DI Imogen Gray series, BUT i just couldn't get into this book. to me, personally, it felt disjointed and a rather strange read.
i didn't overly enjoy the narrative, especially the talks in her head that the main character Gail was having with the protagonist,
Maybe I was expecting too much, but unfortunately, it didn't live up to the heights I've come to expect from the autho' s other series.
thanks to Netgalley and Avon Books UK for the ARC.
i didn't overly enjoy the narrative, especially the talks in her head that the main character Gail was having with the protagonist,
Maybe I was expecting too much, but unfortunately, it didn't live up to the heights I've come to expect from the autho' s other series.
thanks to Netgalley and Avon Books UK for the ARC.
July 6, 2023
Brilliant book it was dark in some places but the story was so good.
Gail goes to police to report a Rape but with no evidence left at scene and Gail previously said she was Raped by a friend he was acquitted as he said it was consensual. Now this is happening and the police send her away thinking its another false allegation. Recommend this book
Gail goes to police to report a Rape but with no evidence left at scene and Gail previously said she was Raped by a friend he was acquitted as he said it was consensual. Now this is happening and the police send her away thinking its another false allegation. Recommend this book
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