Erik Carter’s Don’t Speak takes a slight departure from the first seven stories, breaking away from his usual ‘hired hitman’ role, Silence finds himself confronted with unexpected challenges when he inadvertently stumbles upon a problem during his journey home. This change in dynamic sets the stage for an enthralling listening experience that captivates from start to finish.
The absence of a clear-cut objective for Silence adds an intriguing layer to the story, allowing readers to witness his transformation into a rogue/vigilante figure who takes matters into his own hands (which is clearly against the Watcher’s code). This shift in his character’s motivation opens doors to new dimensions of his persona, keeping me engaged and invested in his personal journey of evolution.
Carter’s storytelling prowess shines through in Don’t Speak, as he masterfully weaves a web of intrigue and suspense around a cast of characters that range from the morally ambiguous to the outright despicable (even this term doesn’t feel like enough). The gradual revelation of the characters’ darker sides keeps listeners on the edge of their seats, urging them to discover the full extent of their sinister intentions.
What truly sets Don’t Speak apart is the skillful construction of an intricately layered town and its inhabitants. The town itself feels like a character, contributing to the overall atmosphere of mystery and suspense. As the story delves deeper into the heart of the community, the underbelly of its existence gradually emerges, exposing both the virtuous and the nefarious residents. Carter’s narrative acumen shines as he orchestrates an enthralling dance between Silence and the diverse townsfolk, making each encounter a significant piece of the puzzle – and adding to the exhilarating feeling was the timeline (because of the rogue-like nature of the story).
The unpredictable elements that emerge throughout the story keep listeners guessing at every turn. From unexpected allies to unforeseen adversaries, the surprises are both well-crafted and expertly executed. This unpredictable nature infuses the audiobook with a sense of excitement, ensuring that Silence’s journey remains unpredictable and engaging and until the last moments of the audiobook I wasn’t sure what was going to happen with Silence and The Watchers next.
Overall, combined with the narration from Gary Bennett (who nails Silence in every book) made this one stand out in the sea of thrillers and suspense books. It feels familiar but different and I absolutely love that.