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Silenced
A family with a dark secret.
A child who refuses to speak.
Rosie must help her before it’s too late. Nine-year-old Caitlin has a secret, but she cannot tell anyone about it. When her mother is sectioned under the Mental Health Act she and her three siblings have to go and live with her grandmother Julie and grandad Ryan. Caitlin finds her new living conditions cat poo on the carpet, rubbish everywhere and the constant stare of her grandad – she retreats more and more into herself. When foster carer Rosie Lewis meets Caitlin she knows something is deeply wrong with this little girl, who is withdrawn, afraid and refuses to speak. Rosie decides to take her in, but Caitlin’s silence continues, and Rosie knows she must act. Why is Caitlin so afraid to speak?
Could it be that the family has a dark secret?
One that is so shocking it can no longer be hidden?
A child who refuses to speak.
Rosie must help her before it’s too late. Nine-year-old Caitlin has a secret, but she cannot tell anyone about it. When her mother is sectioned under the Mental Health Act she and her three siblings have to go and live with her grandmother Julie and grandad Ryan. Caitlin finds her new living conditions cat poo on the carpet, rubbish everywhere and the constant stare of her grandad – she retreats more and more into herself. When foster carer Rosie Lewis meets Caitlin she knows something is deeply wrong with this little girl, who is withdrawn, afraid and refuses to speak. Rosie decides to take her in, but Caitlin’s silence continues, and Rosie knows she must act. Why is Caitlin so afraid to speak?
Could it be that the family has a dark secret?
One that is so shocking it can no longer be hidden?
304 pages, Paperback
Published November 15, 2022
69 people are currently reading
196 people want to read
About the author
Rosie Lewis
37 books188 followersRosie Lewis has been a short-term foster carer for over seven years and in that time has shared her home with over twenty children. Since childhood, Rosie has had an obsession with books and is now delighted to combine fostering with her other passion, writing, by recording some of her experiences in a series of memoirs. Based in northern England, Rosie writes under a pseudonym to protect the identities of the children she looks after.
She lives in the North of England with her own two children.
She lives in the North of England with her own two children.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
July 15, 2022
I’ve read a few of this author’s books now and they never fail to remind me what an important role a foster carer has. This book will give anyone who is considering fostering as well as outsiders a great insight into what it all involves and have to admit Rosie deserves a gold medal for her consistent patience.
Bartley one of the boys that features in the story who is Caitlin’s brother, he would threaten the patience of a saint but through Rosie’s training, you get to see little break throughs and see what a lovely natured boy that is buried underneath. It’s actually heart-breaking to see how an adult’s actions can greatly impact a child and have such a negative effect on them. My mind was going into overdrive when it came to Caitlin as to what was really going on behind closed doors and the treatment she received from members of her own family made me sick to the stomach.
We also get some glimpses into Rosie’s own personal life with her long friend Des as well as her mum. I won’t say too much about either but lets just say I went through a range of emotions!
Silenced had me gripped to it’s pages as I became quickly engrossed in the story. I learned so much about how fostering has changed over the years by reading this author’s books and the level of paperwork and training that is a constant throughout. I love how the author shares her emotions on meeting the children she helps with and the attachments she forms over the time she spends with them. I tend to feel quite melancholy by the end as for one I have formed my own attachment with these characters but also for how hard it must be for a foster carer to say goodbye when a child either goes to a new placement or back to their own family. A page turner that pulls on your emotions!
My thanks to the author for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
Bartley one of the boys that features in the story who is Caitlin’s brother, he would threaten the patience of a saint but through Rosie’s training, you get to see little break throughs and see what a lovely natured boy that is buried underneath. It’s actually heart-breaking to see how an adult’s actions can greatly impact a child and have such a negative effect on them. My mind was going into overdrive when it came to Caitlin as to what was really going on behind closed doors and the treatment she received from members of her own family made me sick to the stomach.
We also get some glimpses into Rosie’s own personal life with her long friend Des as well as her mum. I won’t say too much about either but lets just say I went through a range of emotions!
Silenced had me gripped to it’s pages as I became quickly engrossed in the story. I learned so much about how fostering has changed over the years by reading this author’s books and the level of paperwork and training that is a constant throughout. I love how the author shares her emotions on meeting the children she helps with and the attachments she forms over the time she spends with them. I tend to feel quite melancholy by the end as for one I have formed my own attachment with these characters but also for how hard it must be for a foster carer to say goodbye when a child either goes to a new placement or back to their own family. A page turner that pulls on your emotions!
My thanks to the author for an advanced readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own and not biased in anyway.
August 29, 2022
When a young mother of four children has to go into hospital, the children’s grandparents step up to take care of them. All the children are struggling with the upheaval but nine year old Caitlin becomes so withdrawn that she stops speaking completely. By the time Rosie becomes involved, things have reached crisis point for them all and Rosie has been asked to step in to give Julie and Ryan some respite. And I could see why Bartley is addicted to his phone and prone to violent outbursts, Ethan has ADHD traits and struggles with regulating his emotions and toddler Louis has tantrums far beyond those expected for his age. But it’s Caitlin who sets alarm bells ringing for Rosie. Why is she so terrified? And can Rosie get the children the help they need when she seems to be fighting against the very system set in place.
Bartley one of the boys that features in the story who is Caitlin’s brother, he would threaten the patience of a saint but through Rosie’s training, you get to see little break throughs and see what a lovely natured boy that is buried underneath. It’s actually heart-breaking to see how an adult’s actions can greatly impact a child and have such a negative effect on them. My mind was going into overdrive when it came to Caitlin as to what was really going on behind closed doors and the treatment she received from members of her own family made me sick to the stomach.
We also get some glimpses into Rosie’s own personal life with her long friend Des as well as her mum.
Bartley one of the boys that features in the story who is Caitlin’s brother, he would threaten the patience of a saint but through Rosie’s training, you get to see little break throughs and see what a lovely natured boy that is buried underneath. It’s actually heart-breaking to see how an adult’s actions can greatly impact a child and have such a negative effect on them. My mind was going into overdrive when it came to Caitlin as to what was really going on behind closed doors and the treatment she received from members of her own family made me sick to the stomach.
We also get some glimpses into Rosie’s own personal life with her long friend Des as well as her mum.
August 13, 2022
Rosie Lewis is an amazing woman, undertaking one of the hardest jobs in the world as a foster carer. I have so much respect for her as I know how difficult it must be. The children she comes into contact with need a certain type of person to be there for them and I love reading how Rosie puts her boundaries and strategies in place for these children the minute they enter her home. But as you would expect from the blurb, Silenced is a heartbreaking story so you may need a few tissues beside you when you start reading it!
When a young mother of four children has to go into hospital, the children’s grandparents step up to take care of them. All the children are struggling with the upheaval but nine year old Caitlin becomes so withdrawn that she stops speaking completely. By the time Rosie becomes involved, things have reached crisis point for them all and Rosie has been asked to step in to give Julie and Ryan some respite. And I could see why! Bartley is addicted to his phone and prone to violent outbursts, Ethan has ADHD traits and struggles with regulating his emotions and toddler Louis has tantrums far beyond those expected for his age. But it’s Caitlin who sets alarm bells ringing for Rosie. Why is she so terrified? And can Rosie get the children the help they need when she seems to be fighting against the very system set in place, desperate to be listened to…
There has been a lot of vitriolic outbursts against social workers at the moment-recent cases in the press fan the flames of these attacks as a reaction to some horrific crimes that have committed against children. But people working in social care are often completely exhausted from the amount of cases they are assigned so it’s not surprising that sometimes things get missed. Rosie herself works alongside social workers to put the children in her care first whilst also trying to keep families together if possible. In some cases that is of course not going to happen as a child’s safety is always paramount and here Rosie has to take her time, using her experience and gentle but firm skills, to find out what has happened in this family to cause such shocking revelations.
I love seeing how Rosie copes not just with the foster children she takes in but also with her own family too. We get an insight into her personal life and it was so interesting to see how she handles it when both sides of her life entangle-as of course it always will! As a foster carer, the support of your own family and friends is imperative and that is shown here when the children first enter Rosie’s household and develop relationships with her own children too. I recognised many of the strategies Rosie used as I also use them within my role at school and I love how she also raises awareness of hidden disabilities such as PDA and ADHD whilst also mentioning the sunflower lanyard-a true lifesaver if you don’t already know about it!
You would have to have a heart of stone not to be emotionally affected by the pain passed down through the family dynamics here. I have to say that I was gripped throughout as I really worried about the situation these children found themselves in. And I found many of their interviews with the adults involved completely heartbreaking. But Rosie writes so beautifully that what comes across isn’t voyeuristic or overly dramatic, it’s just an empathetic account of her journey with these children. This is a book that anyone thinking of fostering must read-although to be honest we must ALL play our part in safeguarding our children. So I think EVERYONE needs to read Silenced because one day a chance remark may start YOUR alarm bells ringing.
When a young mother of four children has to go into hospital, the children’s grandparents step up to take care of them. All the children are struggling with the upheaval but nine year old Caitlin becomes so withdrawn that she stops speaking completely. By the time Rosie becomes involved, things have reached crisis point for them all and Rosie has been asked to step in to give Julie and Ryan some respite. And I could see why! Bartley is addicted to his phone and prone to violent outbursts, Ethan has ADHD traits and struggles with regulating his emotions and toddler Louis has tantrums far beyond those expected for his age. But it’s Caitlin who sets alarm bells ringing for Rosie. Why is she so terrified? And can Rosie get the children the help they need when she seems to be fighting against the very system set in place, desperate to be listened to…
There has been a lot of vitriolic outbursts against social workers at the moment-recent cases in the press fan the flames of these attacks as a reaction to some horrific crimes that have committed against children. But people working in social care are often completely exhausted from the amount of cases they are assigned so it’s not surprising that sometimes things get missed. Rosie herself works alongside social workers to put the children in her care first whilst also trying to keep families together if possible. In some cases that is of course not going to happen as a child’s safety is always paramount and here Rosie has to take her time, using her experience and gentle but firm skills, to find out what has happened in this family to cause such shocking revelations.
I love seeing how Rosie copes not just with the foster children she takes in but also with her own family too. We get an insight into her personal life and it was so interesting to see how she handles it when both sides of her life entangle-as of course it always will! As a foster carer, the support of your own family and friends is imperative and that is shown here when the children first enter Rosie’s household and develop relationships with her own children too. I recognised many of the strategies Rosie used as I also use them within my role at school and I love how she also raises awareness of hidden disabilities such as PDA and ADHD whilst also mentioning the sunflower lanyard-a true lifesaver if you don’t already know about it!
You would have to have a heart of stone not to be emotionally affected by the pain passed down through the family dynamics here. I have to say that I was gripped throughout as I really worried about the situation these children found themselves in. And I found many of their interviews with the adults involved completely heartbreaking. But Rosie writes so beautifully that what comes across isn’t voyeuristic or overly dramatic, it’s just an empathetic account of her journey with these children. This is a book that anyone thinking of fostering must read-although to be honest we must ALL play our part in safeguarding our children. So I think EVERYONE needs to read Silenced because one day a chance remark may start YOUR alarm bells ringing.
August 25, 2022
Another brilliant book from Rosie Lewis. Wasn't expecting the ending as I thought I had worked it out but got it wrong. Definitely recommend reading this one.
May 13, 2023
Sad subject but good book.
March 5, 2024
I read it in a couple of hours. Couldn't put it down.
January 6, 2023
I have read every single one of Rosie Lewis books and she never disappoints. The things these children experience break my heart and leave me emotional with tears in my eyes but knowing she does not give up on them always makes me heart feel full.
Reading hers and Casey Watson books (all of Rosie lewis, slowly getting through Casey’s) makes me want to work with children when I’m older the things they do for these children are inspiring.
The book was written so well and I spent most of the book believing the grandfather was going to be the bad guy allowing the reader to feel as manipulated by the grandmother than Rosie and Robert did
100% recommend and I really hope you continue writing Rosie!! I can’t wait for the next one
Reading hers and Casey Watson books (all of Rosie lewis, slowly getting through Casey’s) makes me want to work with children when I’m older the things they do for these children are inspiring.
The book was written so well and I spent most of the book believing the grandfather was going to be the bad guy allowing the reader to feel as manipulated by the grandmother than Rosie and Robert did
100% recommend and I really hope you continue writing Rosie!! I can’t wait for the next one
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 24, 2022
A great read
I've read all Rosie Lewis book to date, she is a great writer, her books are addictive. Great work you do Rosie, it must be a hard but rewarding job you do, each child has a different story. I can never understand why parents treat their children with such utterly contemptible attitudes and treatment.
Well done a great book such a shame these children had to suffer.
I've read all Rosie Lewis book to date, she is a great writer, her books are addictive. Great work you do Rosie, it must be a hard but rewarding job you do, each child has a different story. I can never understand why parents treat their children with such utterly contemptible attitudes and treatment.
Well done a great book such a shame these children had to suffer.
July 24, 2022
Another great book by this author. What the powl family were put through was terrible. Without Rosie there story could have been very different. This book proves that people are not always what they seem on the surface.
August 19, 2022
Absolutley brilliant book. Hope rosie doesnt take as long to release another.
Story had me gripped along the way and didnt expect the ending , I thought I had guessed the outcome half way through but I was wrong.
Highly recommend
Story had me gripped along the way and didnt expect the ending , I thought I had guessed the outcome half way through but I was wrong.
Highly recommend
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 7, 2022
I've read similar stories by other foster care workers but this is the first I've read of Rosie's books. It was very well written and a touching story that I'm thankful to see had a happy ending. I look forward to reading more!
July 25, 2025
An interesting read from Rosie Lewis, can't get enough of these wonderful people who do such an amazing job of changing young people's lives. I was interested in the Mockingbird program where a foster carer can help a family regain control.
July 28, 2022
read
I am not crying,you are crying. Yes especially when you are in the last few chapters you will have to grab tissues. I did cry. I will admit that I am a crybaby on lots of books. This was one.
I am not crying,you are crying. Yes especially when you are in the last few chapters you will have to grab tissues. I did cry. I will admit that I am a crybaby on lots of books. This was one.
July 30, 2022
Confusing but Rewarding
This was a very confusing book to understand. Also, the description of the book is not exactly the greatest. There’s much more to it than that
This was a very confusing book to understand. Also, the description of the book is not exactly the greatest. There’s much more to it than that
August 21, 2022
Review to follow
August 23, 2022
Enjoyable as always! This book actually surprised me which they rarely do anymore. Usually I can figure out what’s really going on far in advance.
August 26, 2022
Another great read from Rosie Lewis. She is very kind, caring, and patient. I always look forward to her books.
October 1, 2022
Perhaps I need to go back to the start to appreciate Rosie Lewis’s Foster memoirs more rather than reading the books as standalones. It was all a bit neat and tidy for my liking.
February 9, 2023
Rosie Lewis' books never disappoint and this was such a good read although sad. Wasn't expecting the end though!
February 15, 2023
Another Amazing Read!!
I Love Rosie Lewis's Books, She has me hooked start to finish. She loves all the children she cares for, so does her family!
I Love Rosie Lewis's Books, She has me hooked start to finish. She loves all the children she cares for, so does her family!
February 20, 2023
if you enjoy reading about foster care & what children go through, this is a great book 🥲❤️ definitely pulls at your heart strings
April 28, 2023
I got the vibe that this was gunna be waaaaaay worse then it was.
Not that it isn't terrible, but I was expecting a different ending.
I wouldn't put these books in the true crime category.
Not that it isn't terrible, but I was expecting a different ending.
I wouldn't put these books in the true crime category.
December 24, 2023
Excellent read. Kept me up several nights. Not at all what I expected. It was pleasant to be so surprised.
January 30, 2024
She is Amazing.
Jan 2024
Jan 2024
February 18, 2024
Hoping this is not her last book. It's been amazing stories of her fostering as well as getting smitten with Meggie.
March 21, 2024
The children are so beautifully written. Rosie herself is so patient, understanding, and empathetic. This was an inspiring read.
December 17, 2022
Perceptions and perspective lead to misunderstandings!
This is another tale that makes real sense as to the damage that can be done to children not just by the abuse but also decisions forced upon them. Rosie knew something was wrong and I am glad that she alone forced things and refused to be drawn in. I will admit I lost track and thought one way which shows the prejudices that exist still in the world. My hats off to foster carers and thankful they are willing to share their experiences as it has taught me much some of which I have been able to use in my own work!
This is another tale that makes real sense as to the damage that can be done to children not just by the abuse but also decisions forced upon them. Rosie knew something was wrong and I am glad that she alone forced things and refused to be drawn in. I will admit I lost track and thought one way which shows the prejudices that exist still in the world. My hats off to foster carers and thankful they are willing to share their experiences as it has taught me much some of which I have been able to use in my own work!
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews