A review by inkwithimagination
Dead Silence by S.A. Barnes

dark mysterious sad tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

Wow, S.A. Barnes really nails it in 'Dead Silence' when it comes to building suspense and tension. From the very beginning, I was totally hooked, itching to uncover the secrets of the ghost ship and the events behind it. Barnes' descriptive prowess paints a vivid picture of the eerie ambiance aboard the abandoned vessel - the creepiness, the suffocating sense of claustrophobia, the oppressive darkness, and the unsettling silence - you can practically feel the shivers down your spine!

Although the story starts a bit slow, it ramps up big time in the second half, keeping me absolutely glued to the pages. And even though I initially found the protagonist's choices and self-pity annoying, I was pleasantly surprised by her growth and transformation. By the end, she becomes someone I couldn't help but root for, conquering her fears and finding peace within herself. 

The ending ties everything up perfectly, making for one heck of a thrilling ride.
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