The Silence by Katerina Diamond can be a particularly tough book to read. There is no beating about the bush with this one - it's a book about sexual violence. The predatory behaviour of one individual and the unwillingness of the police to do anything about it. If this is a trigger for you, maybe give this book a miss. The violence is not gratuitous in nature, most described after the fact, but it is still something that creates an impact, especially in light of which we go on to discover.

This is a book about a heinous man who drugs and attacks protagonist, Gail Reynolds, in her own home. There is no evidence, she has barely any memory of the assault itself, but she certainly remembers everything that came after. When she attempts to report the case to the police, the very suspect circumstances she describes, the lack of any forensic evidence, and what is considered to be a checkered history, leads the police to quickly dismiss her report as pure invention and convince Gail to withdraw her statement. Unthinkable, you might say. The police are meant to believe the victim first, in all cases. But under pressure from her boss to drop an impossible to prove case, then DS Shona White does exactly that, something which she will eventually come to regret. There are reasons for her actions, facts that are slowly revealed to us readers, but the act itself is unconscionable, and when we learn everything there is to know, it feels almost unforgivable too.

I've got to be honest. I'm still not quite sure how I feel about this book. It's really not something you can say you enjoy, given the horrific subject matter. Even taking into account that she is a victim, I found Gail a hard woman to like or to bond with as a character. I admired her strength of spirit and her conviction, and why shouldn't she have that. She has earned the right to the anger she directs towards her attacker. There was also the acknowledgement by the author about how such violence committed against her had changed Gail's life irrevocably, something which is very skilfully portrayed in the book. But all of this aside, she was quite a spiky character and that meant that, bizarrely, I felt less sympathy for her than I might have expected. I was intrigued by her actions and in seeing how she was going to find her own kind of justice, and that is perhaps more what compelled me to keep reading than finding myself entirely engrossed in the story.

There is a second victim who Gail meets by chance at a group therapy meeting when she speaks of an assault that has distressingly similar hallmarks to her own. Martha is chalk to Gail's cheese, and as victims go their differences make any connection between them almost impossible to fathom. That adds to the mystery and the bit question marks that arise over just who might be committing these acts of violence. When we move into the second part of the book, we gain some insight, with chapters told from the the point of view of a third party, someone who we implicitly understand is connected to the assaults. Those scenes are a touch unsettling, showing us the evolution of a very disturbed character, one whose identity remains successfully hidden until the very end of the book.

We do meet Shona again, the author giving her the chance to redeem herself in the readers, and her own eyes. I can sort of understand her position - a real devil and the deep blue sea moment - but it almost feels a bit to little to late in terms of righting all wrongs. Of all the characters in the book, she and Martha were the easiest to like, and there was something, eventually, about Shona, which grew on me. Then again, she is a woman in what was traditionally a man's world. A job which has all too recently been exposed as a of bed of misogyny and racism. It's hard to underestimate the way in which 'company politics' will have shaped her decision making and her determination to put things right does ring true.

The book does take some unexpected turns, a kind of vigilante edge emerging as the victims try to find some kind of justice where the police have failed. There are many twists and unexpected moments in the book, and some very stark revelations which make the earlier choices made by the police all the more tragic. But the author does highlight a real issue in society, the modern way of victim blaming and shaming. That somehow one man's decision to take what he is not entitled to, to strip away their sense of self and of safety, is somehow the fault of the person who they make their victim.

A difficult read, perhaps one to be approached with caution. It is a subject dealt with sensitively, and not played for reaction, but it provokes one nonetheless. Love of loathe Gail, her situation is so inherent in society that if the book can just provoke discussion around the subject, then it will have achieved a great deal.

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.

I very much like this author so was very pleased to get an ARC of The Silence. Well written, as always with believable characters. You know who the perpetrator is from quite early on but I think that's the point. It's how they are discovered and caught that's the point. This book does deal with rape so some people could be triggered by this. A definite "twist" at the very end... made me wonder what might happen in the future.
Given the stats on rape this book is very believable in that victims are told to go away and forget about it. It's not quite black and white though with this book so good book group discussion

I have read other books by the author and enjoyed them. However, I struggled with this novel, due in part to the subject matter and failed to finish.Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the src.

I decided to pick this one up to break up all the romance and i read it in 24 hours. I completely binged it. I won’t say I loved it or that I disliked it. I found it an ok read. I had guessed the perpetrator within the first few chapters (maybe that was the idea)
This book is one that you should check the content for TW before reading. There is content involving sexual abuse and rape. I didn’t feel that the characters were overly likeable. Even the lead police officer felt very cold. It was definitely a quick read and my first book by this author and I will read more of her work.

CW: SA, suicide

When Gail experiences a horrific attack in her own home and it is not believed by the police she struggles to find a way forward. Until she meets another woman at a SA surviver group who’s story is eerily similar to hers. That’s when she realises her attacker has struck before. Wanting to right the wrong she has done to Gail, DCI Shona White vows to help her and catch the evil perpetrator of such heinous crimes. Can he be caught before he strikes again?

This book, although difficult in some places, is wonderfully written and gives justice and truly hears the experience of those who have experienced this heinous act. The characters were written with depth and humility, giving credence to the plot material and drives the story along in a believable way. This is perfect for fans of Karin Slaughter and Martina Cole.

A disappointing read.

When I’m not engaged by the characters, it’s difficult for me to like the story. When this book first started, I was feeling the pain of Gail and what she was having to go through. As the story continued, I started disliking her and her friend, Martha. I can’t even explain what went wrong for me, I just know that one minute I was sympathetic towards Gail, and the next, I could care less about any of the characters in the book. The author lost me.

I figured out the rapist pretty quickly, it was obvious. The plot was average and at times, rather boring. I didn’t care for the first person narrative, and I didn’t like the direction the author took the women. So much potential for a better book, written in a different style, and an adjustment on the plot. I have read one other book by Ms. Diamond, and I didn’t like it either, but was willing to give her another try. That backfired; overall, a disappointing read.

My review is voluntary and all comments and opinions are my own.

The silence, was a truly chilling and terrifying read.
From the off, the monster created was just about as scary as it gets, undetectable, clever, and twisted beyond any comprehension. Add to that the ability to go completely undetected, and commit a crime that even leaves the victims doubting themselves and you have a formidable, invisible enemy.
I loved the characters, the vulnerabilities and human traits really got you onside. Also writing from their perspective meant you could dive into their thoughts and feelings and really get the whole picture. Cleverly this also allowed you into the mind of a monster, making your spine tingle as you realise the extent of danger the women are in.
I did guess who the perpetrator was, however, this made this more attractive to read on and find out how everything would pan out.
I have loved Previous books by the author, which is why I jumped at the opportunity to read and review this. I really wasn't dissapointed. It's a skillful masterclass on how to write a fabulous thriller!

So, first let me say this, the plot was a bit unrealistic and the villain was obvious. Those two things, however, did not, surprisingly, detract from this intriguing tale that still managed a couple twists. Not the best book I've read but certainly not the worst either. An easy read perfect for passing time.

I love Katerina Diamond’s IMOGEN GREY series so I was really looking forward to reading this one. The concept and the plot is really interesting, though it does feel like the mystery part of the storyline isn’t really there. The villain is so obvious, especially for this kind of storyline. Bit disappointing overall but it won’t put me off reading any future books she publishes.

A good easy read with lots of twists and turns. The plot may have been a little unrealistic but it did not deter from my enjoyment. Another great book by this author. Be aware that some may be upset by the plot of rape. Thanks to Net Galley for an ARC

The Silence is a deeply disturbing book. It's a difficult read in places, but only because of its realism. The subject matter is rape and it could be triggering for some, but it is a study in the misogyny that is sadly so prevalent.

The main character, Gail, reports being raped - but isn't believed. A previous allegation wasn't followed through and assumptions are made. But then Gail finds someone whose story was exactly the same as hers.

The pair team up, convinced there must be more women out there who have suffered at the hands of the same man. And that's when things get even darker.

Without spoilers, there are a fair few twists at the end of the book. Much of the story arc has a psychological focus, but the pace is fast at the end. And excellent novel, disturbing and impactful.

I'm a huge fan of the author and jumped at the chance to read and review this book.
Gail and Martha befriend each other at a local rape support group, they realise they were attacked by the same man, on the same date. They feel unsupported by the police etc, so they decide to take things in their own hands.
I feel that many people will find this a difficult read due to the trigger warnings. Some parts of the story I worked out early on, and some parts are quire dark. I did enjoy reading this story.

I'm always pleased to get a chance to read a new Katerina Diamond novel and as much as I would of loved to read the next installment from Imogen Grey & Adrian Miles (I need to know what happens with Adrian) The Silence is a good standalone novel, it covers the horrific serial rapes of young woman and highlights how terribly some woman are treated by the police and the struggle to be heard and get justice, it is graphic in places but it has been written in a sensitive way and it will stay with you for a long time.

The Silence is a deeply impactful, fast-paced and suspenseful thriller/crime novel. Firstly I do think it is important to know this novel centres around the topic of rape and a serial rapist which may be triggering to some people. However it is dealt with skilfully and sadly truthfully with regards to how a lot of women are not believed and the trauma they are left to deal with after. I was hooked with this, I loved the fast paced and reading each POV was really interesting, especially the police procedural vs the victims.

"The Silence" by Katerina Diamond is a gripping and chilling psychological thriller that delves into the dark and haunting aftermath of sexual assault. The novel centers around Gail, a woman who wakes up in the middle of the night to find herself unable to move or speak, with a stranger standing over her. When she tries to report the incident to the police, they don't believe her. But when she meets another victim with a similar experience, Gail realizes that she may be dealing with a serial attacker who is about to strike again.

One of the strengths of "The Silence" is its ability to create a sense of unease and tension throughout the story. Diamond skillfully builds suspense with her vivid and evocative writing, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as they try to unravel the mystery of the attacker's identity and motives. The pacing of the novel is well-done, with twists and turns that keep readers guessing and eager to uncover the truth.

The novel also delves into the emotional aftermath of sexual assault, exploring the trauma, fear, and psychological impact that survivors often face. Diamond handles the sensitive subject matter with care and sensitivity, depicting the challenges that Gail and the other victims face as they try to come to terms with their experiences. The novel also sheds light on the disbelief and skepticism that survivors often encounter when they try to report their assaults, highlighting the need for a more compassionate and understanding response from society.

It's important to note that "The Silence" includes references to sexual assault, and it may be triggering for some readers. Diamond does not shy away from depicting the brutality and trauma of these events, and readers should be prepared for the emotional impact that it may have.

In conclusion, "The Silence" is a gripping and harrowing psychological thriller that explores the aftermath of sexual assault. Diamond's skillful writing, suspenseful pacing, and sensitive handling of the subject matter make this a compelling read. However, readers should be aware of the triggering content and approach the book with caution if they have sensitivities to this topic. Fans of psychological thrillers that delve into dark and emotional themes will find "The Silence" to be a captivating and haunting read.

I’ve read all of Katerina Diamond’s other books, so was excited to read this new release.
I really enjoyed the book and thought that the main topic of rape was handled well.
There were a few twists and whilst I guessed the ending, it didn’t take away from my enjoyment.

Firstly,and importantly, the central theme of this book is rape so please if that's a trigger for you do not read it.

Katerina Diamond has never shied away from addressing "difficult" issues in her books and her latest, "The Silence" certainly does that.
Gail Reynolds reports that she's been raped to the local police, only to feel that she's being fobbed off by people who aren't taking her seriously and don't believe her, the same reaction she got a few years earlier when she reported a similar assault. DS Shona White takes the brunt of Gail's anger and feels guilty after she's left for not pushing her bosses to believe her story and investigate.
A couple of years later a still traumatised Gail comes across another victim of the same man and decides that she's not going to be a victim or let any other women become victims.

This is an often harrowing read told from the perspectives of 3 of the main characters,Gail, the rapist and DS White. No spoilers but it's great to read a book with some very strong female characters. Katerina Diamond uses her book to highlight several societal and police issues regarding attitudes to women in general and victims of sexual assault in particular, it's never "preachy" but there's plenty to think about,and as a society to not be particularly proud of.
A great read that is thought-provoking and ,as we've become used to from Katerina Diamond,pulls no punches.

I have read a few of the authors previous books and each time I’ve read one I ask myself why I did…while the plots are always interesting they get beyond fiction and become utterly fantastical which really takes away any merit away from the plot.
This book was probably the worst I’ve read from the author whilst she makes some very interesting points there is nothing else redeeming about his book. And the points she is trying to make get lost among the plot and poor written characters. I find it hard to believe she is still being published. This could have been a very powerful book but it is so badly plotted, with terrible dialogue, characters who are not believable in any way that anything that was being said that could have sent a important message was drowned out.

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.