4.72k reviews for:

Dead Silence

S.A. Barnes

3.82 AVERAGE


Well this book was creepy and satisfying and I loved it! A great blend of horror and sci-fi! It definitely gave me the Alien vibes and also a Firefly vibe. I look forward to more from this author!

Damn what a book. The description given for this book was about as accurate as it could get. I felt like I was walking around the haunted version of the Titanic and experiencing the same claustrophobic horrors the characters were. The sea has always terrified me, and I never considered space to be so similar to the sea but honestly it’s worse and this book highlighted that.
The Aurora has been lost in space, no one knows what happened on board and the ship was never found until the crew of the LINA did. Every event after this had me tense and on the edge of my seat. The writing pulled me in and the setting made me realize just how much I hate the thought of being in space. While yes being lost at sea leaves little chance of rescue, being trapped in space with no one to hear you and no way home makes me actually want to dig a hole and live in it.
I would call this book more psychological horror rather than classic horror, but this did not draw away any enjoyment. Such a well done book and I loved every twist and turn.

I would call this more of a creepy thriller than space horror, but regardless, it was fun.

I was a little bummed that the cause of the hallucinations was something explainable. I wanted there to be some creepy space monster who somehow causes people to go crazy when in its presence, but alas, a weapon that causes vibrations meant to make passengers uncomfy so they write bad Google reviews is fine too.
adventurous dark mysterious medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes
adventurous dark mysterious fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix

Dead Silence is a remarkable blend of horror, psychological tension, and science fiction that draws you deep into a chilling narrative set against the vast backdrop of space. S.A. Barnes has crafted an atmospheric and deeply unsettling story that defies expectations and explores the fragility of the human psyche in the face of the unknown.

From the beginning, the novel sets a tone of dread and enigma as we follow the crew of the space salvage ship, the *Aurora*. The story opens with the mysterious distress signal that lures them to an abandoned spacecraft, hinting at something sinister lurking within the dark void. The initial chapters unfold slowly, allowing readers to absorb the eerie silence of the derelict ship and the growing unease among the crew. This deliberate pacing serves to build tension effectively, making the moments of horror that follow all the more impactful.

The characters are richly developed, each with their own backstories and motivations that drive their actions. As the crew delves deeper into the mysterious ship, their individual fears and insecurities surface, adding complexity to their interactions. The strain of isolation in space amplifies their tensions, leading to a palpable mix of camaraderie and distrust that keeps readers engaged and guessing about who might crack first.

Barnes’s writing shines in its vivid imagery and sensory detail. The claustrophobic settings, the flickering lights, and the haunting echoes of the ship's empty corridors create an immersive reading experience. You can almost feel the cold metal of the spacecraft and hear the unsettling sounds that signal something is not right. This eerie backdrop enhances the sense of impending doom as the crew uncovers secrets that should have remained buried.

One of the novel's most impressive aspects is its ability to subvert genre expectations. While readers may anticipate typical tropes of science fiction or horror, Barnes skillfully navigates through and cleverly twists these elements, leading to a series of unexpected developments. Just when you think you have a handle on the narrative, the plot takes sharp turns that leave you breathless and questioning everything.

Moreover, the themes explored in Dead Silence resonate on multiple levels, touching on the fragility of human relationships, the impact of trauma, and the struggle for survival against all odds. It reflects on how fear can warp a person's judgment and the lengths individuals will go to protect themselves and their loved ones, making the stakes feel intensely personal.

For those who typically shy away from science fiction or horror, I would urge you to give Dead Silence a chance. It offers a fresh perspective within the genre, combining the thrill of the unknown with deep psychological insights. This book is a page-turner that will keep you up late into the night, eager to uncover what awaits in the pitch-black depths of space.

In conclusion, S.A. Barnes has masterfully crafted a haunting tale in Dead Silence that resonates long after you’ve turned the final page. Prepare yourself for a gripping journey filled with suspense, tension, and chilling revelations—a journey that will linger in your mind and leave you reflecting on the nature of fear and isolation long after you’ve left the spaceship behind.

Really easy read. Very atmospheric and fitting book for Halloween. Very satisfying conclusion that you don’t get with a lot of horror reads. Will definitely be reading her other books.

Was definitely scary. Does every horror story need a romantic element though?

3.5 ⭐️
dark tense medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Strong character development: Yes