Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

High Stakes #1

A Silent Terror

Rate this book
When Marianna Santino's roommate is killed, Detective Ethan O'Hara can't fathom the motive. Then he realizes the deaf teacher was the intended target. Marianna must have something the murderer desperately wants. But what? Digging for the truth, the guarded cop tries to learn everything he can about Marianna. Her world. Her family. Her beauty, faith and fierce independence. In spite of himself, Ethan finds that he can't keep his feelings at bay. Soon, he's willing to risk everything—including his heart—to lay the silent terror stalking Marianna to rest.

224 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published January 1, 2009

440 people are currently reading
1078 people want to read

About the author

Lynette Eason

183 books3,826 followers
Lynette Eason grew up in Greenville, SC. She graduated from the University of South Carolina, Columbia, and then obtained her masters in education from Converse College. Author of twenty inspirational romantic suspense books, she is also a member of American Christian Fiction Writers (ACFW) and Romance Writers of America (RWA). In 1996, Lynette married "the boy next door" and now she and her husband and their two children make their home in Simpsonville, South Carolina."

Series:
. Amazon Adventure
. High Stakes
. Women of Justice

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
911 (49%)
4 stars
581 (31%)
3 stars
287 (15%)
2 stars
44 (2%)
1 star
21 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 29 of 111 reviews
Profile Image for Sarah Grace Grzy.
634 reviews942 followers
February 4, 2018
Can't really say this was Eason's most shining star, but it wasn't terrible. The deaf-culture aspect was interesting, and the mystery kept me on my toes. I enjoyed the characters' story arcs, but the romance got on my nerves quite a few times. Too physically-centered for my tastes. Also, there were a few typos\poorly edited scenes that pulled me out of the story.
Profile Image for Gloria.
1,151 reviews143 followers
May 20, 2017
This was an enjoyable, edgy read. Ms. Eason shows how scary and dangerous it can be for a deaf person who can't always know when in a situation where someone means them bodily harm. This is something I never considered. Good page turner.
Profile Image for Hannah.
2,948 reviews1,439 followers
January 8, 2019
3.5 stars
A quick and easy read and hard to put down. The writing is a bit choppy or unpolished in spots and there were a few spots I just didn’t follow the relation of clue to event, plus some unanswered questions (like why her service dog didn’t accompany her to her teaching duties), but it’s still a good read. I really enjoyed the scenes set at the deaf school and that the MC, Marianna, is almost completely deaf. Ethan was a great hero and the side characters were interesting. I’ll definitely be reading more in this series about the Santino siblings.
Profile Image for Kaytlin Phillips.
Author 18 books252 followers
May 28, 2025
I'm just imagining how terrifying this situation would have been...wow! I'd have died....like I would have had a heart attack.

Characters:
Marianna is deaf. She can hear loud sounds or certain pitches with her hearing aids, but pretty much deaf. When her roommate is murdered in their home and then things escalate, she's left trying to figure out what she has that someone wants and who that someone is...poor thing. I'd have died because I'm too jumpy as it is.🤣
Ethan had so much guilt, poor guy. he found a lot of healing but how hard it must have been for him to be entrusted with Marianna's safety.
All the side characters were great! My one complaint is that one issue between Marianna and Ethan was never fully dealt with...like the fear that drove him to mention a Cochlear implant was never address...Marianna just got mad without considering Ethan's history. *shrugs* Other than that...nah.

Romance:
Slow burn, which I appreciated.

Language:
N/A

Violence/Gore:
Murder, car wreck, stalking, breaking and entering, a dog is hurt, car vandalized, some attacked in the dark (where I would have died), and some characters get shot. Also, mentions of past deaths, such as a hostage situation death, and someone who got hit by a car.
Handled well.

Overall:
This was really good and I had a fun time trying to figure out who the bad guys were and what they wanted from Marianna. Loved Ethan!

Recommend age 13+
Profile Image for Nightfalltwen.
338 reviews29 followers
April 10, 2009
Hoooooooooo-eeeeee *waves hand in front of nose* What a stinker. I was hoping that this might be better than the last one, but I was sorely mistaken. Thank god it was a free book and not something I spent money on. In any case... Okay I get that there's christian fiction out there. I really do, but honestly? In a Harlequin? It just came out all horribly wrong and corny and reminded me why I'm non-practicing.

Definitely not a good book. I can understand why some people... I'm thinking maybe the really religious people who live in the bible belt... would like this. But it's seriously just not good writing. At all.

Not that I had high expectations of a Harlequin or anything. Because I didn't.
Profile Image for Amanda Geaney.
541 reviews341 followers
October 27, 2021
I don't have an Audible subscription so I rely on the Hoopla and Libby (apps) which are offered by my library. For some reason, Libby doesn't have many new release titles in my preferred genre (#Christianfiction) so I went exploring older titles and found A Silent Terror by @lynetteeason. What a gem! I learned a lot about deaf culture and the tools that offer them more independence. The only negative thing I can say about the (hearing impaired) protagonist is that she guards her independence like an idol. When she clings to it, trouble follows. Thankfully, Detective Ethan O'Hara takes a special interest in her and is usually only a step or two behind. As the mystery unfolds, Ethan and Marianna form a unique relationship that brings out the best in them both. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Profile Image for Katie.
Author 2 books128 followers
August 4, 2011
Lynette's awesome, bold, and vivid writing shines through in this Love Inspired novel. From the very first paragraph, the reader is thrust into this fast-paced suspense book with Ethan and Marianna. The fact that Marianna is deaf only added to the uniqueness of the plot. Having taken classes in the past on the Deaf culture and learned some ASL, I was excited about reading this book!

If you like Lynette's work with the Women of Justice series, or just stumbled across this book, you will not be disappointed. A easy read, this book will keep you on your toes! :-)
3,964 reviews1,764 followers
September 4, 2019
I've wanted to read this book for such a long time! I started reading Love Inspired books in 2010ish so I missed the release of this one by a year. I've become a huge fan of Lynette Eason and I really wanted to make my way through her LIS backlist, but since I don't read ebooks some books remained elusive. Until I discovered this gem on audible! Woot! And -- guess what? I loved it just as much as I knew I would!

What has become Eason's trademark edge-of-your-seat flare for suspense is apparent here in one of her earlier works, but it's softened by a nice balance of every day life -- including a burgeoning relationship -- which I found especially alluring. For all the intensity of the suspense there's an unhurried ease about Ethan and Marianna's romance. That doesn't mean it's lacking passion or angst -- both are plentiful -- it just felt like their relationship wasn't racing against the clock the same way the suspense was. Really enjoyed the varied pace. And I loved the way the Deaf culture was intricately woven into every aspect of the story. That added a whole other dimension to an already compelling suspense.
30 reviews
May 31, 2021
More like 3.8 stars or so.

**Spoilers Ahead**
The victim Marianna is deaf and a teacher. Her roommate gets murdered in the opening scene and from there on it is all about why was she killed and if there is more to it then a regular "Burglary gone wrong". Of course there is a love angle weaved into it between Marianna and this detective.

It does keep you on the edge to an extent and maintains the same pace throughout (barring couple of places).
What did prove a bit too much for me was the constant praying to god (felt like a deliberate attempt to remind people of god's creation etc. So much so that even when the climax sets in it is more about "Jesus take the wheel" rather then how an action packed thriller suspense should be).

The love angle was ok although the constant reference to butterflies and blushing etc is just a bit too much for me specifically.
Also, the plot could have been a lot thicker and the initial indication was such in fact. Didn't really pan out to be a huge conspiracy/ earth shattering though (too much Jason Bourne i am telling you).

All in all, a nice decent and light read that you wouldn't regret.
Profile Image for Vikki Vaught.
Author 12 books159 followers
September 1, 2019
An exciting read. Great characters and an intriguing plot. Great narrator as well. Happy reading/listening!
Profile Image for Sarita.
1,527 reviews655 followers
October 4, 2019
Ever since I discovered Lynette's books, all her books were on my backlist-to-get-to-list. Even though I prefer her more recent work, this was still an enjoyable suspense.

I especially loved that the death community were included and you get to see more how technology assist them in their daily lives and also how they manage in a hearing world.

Profile Image for Wendy Sparkes.
Author 3 books24 followers
March 2, 2012
Marianna Santino arrives home from work to an open door & no dog rushing to meet her. Immediately she is on the alert. Due to her almost completely silent world, she can't hear if anything's going on. She calls for help then enters, finding her housemate lying dead & the room ransacked. This is only the beginning for Marianna as terror stalks her both at home & at the Palmetto Deaf School where she works. It seems she has something someone desperately wants - if she can only figure out what.

Homicide Detective Ethan O'Hara is no stranger to the deaf community, his younger sister Ashley having been a part of it. She died because of teens drag racing & she hadn't heard the impending danger approaching. Ethan watched it happen, unable to get to her in time or even warn her. He feels he failed his sister, but he's determined he's not going to fail Marianna, a woman who is becoming very special to him.

I really enjoyed this story & I like the fact Lynette Eason has the deaf community play a large role in it. It was interesting to get a glimpse into their silent, but still very full, world.

Other books in the series:
#2 A Silent Fury (High Stakes, #2)
#3 A Silent Pursuit (High Stakes, #3)
#4 Protective Custody
#5 Missing
Profile Image for Annie.
373 reviews
August 5, 2020
I disliked Marianna almost immediately. In the prayer for help, she called her pet, "Just a dog"?!?!?
Her dog is taken to the vet and she is taken to her mother's home to stay. When letting her brother know why she is moving in, she doesn't tell her brother about her dog being attacked. And no one in her family remarked that her dog wasn't with her?!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Anna Marie.
1,412 reviews2 followers
May 7, 2023
I've read the comments others have left about this book, and I have to say that they're all right. Ms. Eason *DOES* get spiritual in this book. She DOES include prayer, have her characters talk about having a relationship with God, and have them talk about witnessing for their faith. Absolutely true.

But while the other commentors found this off-putting, I have to tell you - THIS is what I want in an 'inspirational' book. Faith. Real, living, active faith. THIS is what 'Love, Inspired' books should be - inspiring and with a Biblical slant to them.

If that's not what you want?
You shouldn't be reading these, anyhow!

Lynette Eason was once a teacher at a deaf school, so this story about a deaf teacher is very well done, and from the perspective of a writer with actual experience. More, she nails Deaf culture in the book (I know, because my daughter is an ASL interpreter, and I've been to MANY events with her, and have deaf friends). This is really well done.

I can't give it five stars, however, because of a few things. First, how did the killer get the dog in the closet?! Second, the unlikelihood of the cop on the deaf woman's case having a deaf sister is really hard to buy. Third... this 'teacher' pretty much NEVER teaches in the book. ((shakes head))

The other two things I had trouble with were Ethan's relationship and the vague demands of the perp. Regarding the former... Ethan mostly just falls for Marianna because she's hot. He doesn't know her, doesn't know much about her. It's quick and pat and even while he's working with her, he's constantly handsy. Not okay with me.

As for the latter, "Keep your mouth shut" works a LOT better if the person being threatened knew what it was they weren't supposed to talk about. AND/OR "I want it back" works better when the person who has 'it' knows what 'it' is, so they can get 'it' for them. This happens a LOT in 'Love, Inspired' suspense books, and I roll my eyes, every time.

Having said, though - this was NOT BAD for a LI Suspense. I loved the faith. The writing wasn't horrible, and the characterizations were solid. So... yeah. I'd recommend this.
Profile Image for Lillian  B (Kaladin Stormblessed version).
362 reviews58 followers
April 21, 2024
4.5 Stars
When Mariannas friend is found dead in her apartment, Ethan O'hara, a detective, has to save the day. But will he ever find the murderer? Or will Marianna die first...
THIS. BOOK. WAS. GREAT!!!
Lynette Eason did it again--this book kept me up WAAY too late, and I loved it! Marianna is a realistic, well rounded heroine who's deaf, and super independent. It was kind of frustrating when Marianna didn't trust Ethan, but what's a story without conflict?
Main content warnings: Kisses, hugs, girl is found dead, Marianna is held hostage, girl is ran over by car, (Not detailed flashback), characters are attacked.
I'd recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good, clean Christian mystery/thriller. Its probably best for 15 and up(ish), but younger readers could enjoy it too if the murder and other stuff doesn't scare them. The only complaint that I have is that, in my opinion, the sequel isn't even half as good.
Profile Image for Sonya Wasden.
1,077 reviews13 followers
December 31, 2024
Wow, what a beautifully written romantic suspense by an author who respects Christian values and incorporates them in to her stories without being preachy or condescending.

Marianna Santino is a deaf woman who teaches at a school for the deaf or hearing impaired. When her roommate is murdered in the home she shares with Marianna, police detective Ethan O'Hara is called in to solve the crime. When it is determined that Marianna is the killer's intended target and her life continues to be in jeopardy, Detective O'Hara is determined to be Marianna's protector.

I loved how this story progressed. It kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time trying to figure out who would have been the murderer and why they had Marianna in the crosshairs.

I would highly recommend this book and the others written by this author if you enjoy a good suspenseful story with a developing romance, as well.
Profile Image for Tonya Whitehurst.
41 reviews1 follower
January 16, 2024
This book has suspense, a possible love connection, a teacher, a school, family dynamics and faith - many of my favorite things in a book. I gave this a 4 star because I had an idea of who was behind the murder and stalking but there was enough that I didn’t piece it all together that kept me intrigued.

Here’s a quick synopsis:

Marianna Santino's roommate is killed with no motive. Then Detective Ethan O'Hara realizes the deaf teacher was the intended target. Marianna has something the murderer desperately wants. But she has no clue what?

As the investigation gets deeper, Ethan & Marianna have a definite connection but both of them have some issues from their past they will need to deal with before they can move forward in a relationship. But will that happen before it’s too late for them or for the safety of Marianna? Will their feelings for each other be a hindrance or a help?
Profile Image for Debbie.
3,646 reviews88 followers
November 6, 2024
"A Silent Terror" is a Christian romantic suspense. Marianna's deaf, though she can read lips and can hear somewhat with hearing aids. Still, it makes hearing danger more difficult. Detective Ethan's sister was also deaf, so he knows how to interact well with Marianna, but his sister was killed in an accident because she didn't hear danger coming. Ethan struggled with how to keep independent Marianna safe while investigating the murder.

Suspense came from repeated attacks to Marianna. The main characters were engaging and reacted realistically to events. Ethan and Marianna worked well together and came to care for each other as they got to know each other. There was no sex or bad language. Overall, I'd recommend this enjoyable suspense.
173 reviews
May 18, 2025
Marianna Santino is a deaf teacher at the school for the death. She arrives home to an apartment she shares with a fellow teacher and finds her stabbed to death. She calls 911 and meets the arriving officer, Ethan O'Hara.
Marianna has fought hard for her independence and resents any attempt that she perceives as interference with that independence. A former boyfriend wanted her to get a cochlear implant that she saw as a criticism.
Ethan had a deaf sister who died when a car hit her. She could not hear Ethan's warning call. He does sign so that is a plus for him. Guilt is his hang-up.
A student gave Marianna a file that the bad guys are after. A final showdown occurs in her classroom. Ethan typically saves the day.
Good book.
Profile Image for Laura Hamby.
200 reviews14 followers
April 26, 2021
Beauty from Ashes

Once again, Lynette Eason who has won awards doesn’t disappoint! In the midst of tragedy in their lives a policeman and a teacher come together. He is there to protect her and together they are searching for answers after her roommate is tragically murdered. This book may keep you reading into the night until you can’t keep your eyes open as it did for me. Once you read this you will want to read her other novels!
Profile Image for curated reading reviews.
123 reviews
March 8, 2025
Despite the cover not being one that I would typically pick up I really enjoyed this one.

I loved Marianna and Ethan as characters but it wasn’t my most favorite book ever so I am giving it a 4 star. The book was very high steaks but it didn’t necessarily feel that way and I felt like there were a couple times when Marianna got upset that didn’t make sense to me. Overall I don’t regret reading it and honestly enjoyed it!!
260 reviews2 followers
September 1, 2017
I enjoyed the glimpse into the world of the deaf and hearing impaired. The mystery was good and I enjoyed it but it's not written on the level of "Deadly Reunions", or "Elite Guardians" series. Perhaps the book didn't have the depth of the author's other books because it was written for Harlequin...
8 reviews
July 6, 2019
Suspenseful throughout

I enjoyed the story’s ability to keep me guessing the identity of the villain and the fast moving plot. I plan to read the other books in the series soon and recommend this book as a good story that doesn’t rely on foul language to move the action forward, and there is plenty of action!
1,772 reviews33 followers
March 27, 2021
I know this is an older book but I just read it and it's excellent! I loved the characters and the story line. It revolves around a teacher at the school for the deaf and a murder of her roommate (who is not deaf though) and the detective who is solving it. There is a lot of action and twists and turns. I really liked the character development and the outcome. I would recommend it!
Displaying 1 - 29 of 111 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.