Don't Breathe a Word

Don't Breathe a Word cover
Good Books rating 3.9
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Technical
  • ID: 8034
  • Added: 2025-12-20
  • Updated: 2025-12-20
  • ISBN: 9780063038905
  • Publisher: HarperCollins
  • Published: 2021-05-18
  • Reviews: 3

Eva, a girl who has never felt like she belonged, finds herself drawn into the elite secret society of the Fives at Hardwick Preparatory Academy. As she delves deeper into their world, she uncovers a web of secrets that the society is determined to keep buried. Meanwhile, in 1962, Connie volunteers for a nuclear fallout shelter test, only to discover that the experiment is far more sinister than she ever imagined. As Eva and Connie's stories become intertwined, the truth about what happened in the fallout shelter all those years ago begins to surface, revealing a chilling tale of deception and danger. Set against the backdrop of a prestigious boarding school, 'Don't Breathe a Word' is a gripping thriller that explores themes of belonging, secrecy, and the lengths people will go to protect their secrets. With its fast-paced narrative and intricate plot twists, this novel is perfect for fans of suspenseful mysteries that keep readers on the edge of their seats.

Reviews
Pasadena Library · 2021-07-10
compelling 4.20

The story is masterfully written, full of psychological manipulation, conspiracies, and blackmail, with unexpected connections that keep the reader guessing. The dual-era setting adds a unique layer to the mystery.

This book is a masterfully written tale that delves into psychological manipulation, conspiracies, and blackmail, all while maintaining a gripping pace that keeps the reader on the edge of their seat. The dual-era setting is particularly effective, as it allows for unexpected connections and twists that add depth to the mystery. The characters are well-developed, and their interactions are both believable and engaging. The author's ability to weave together multiple timelines and perspectives is impressive, making this book a standout in the genre. However, some readers might find the pacing a bit uneven, and the ending could have been more satisfying. Overall, it's a compelling read that will appeal to fans of psychological thrillers.


Quick quotes

    Don't Breathe a Word is a masterfully written tale full of psychological manipulation, conspiracies, and blackmail, with unexpected connections.

    The dual-era setting adds a unique layer to the mystery.

    The author's ability to weave together multiple timelines and perspectives is impressive.

The Books Are Everywhere · 2021-05-18
engaging 3.50

The dual timeline narrative effectively intertwines the stories of two girls at the same boarding school, creating a compelling exploration of mystery and identity. The historical setting adds depth, making the characters' experiences feel both unique and relatable.

This book cleverly weaves together the lives of two girls separated by sixty years, both attending the same boarding school. The author does a fantastic job of making the historical setting of 1962 feel vivid and immersive, which adds a layer of depth to the characters' struggles and triumphs. The mystery at the heart of the story is engaging, and the way the timelines converge keeps the reader hooked. However, some parts of the plot feel a bit predictable, and the ending might not be as climactic as one might hope. Overall, it's a solid read that fans of historical fiction and dual timeline narratives will enjoy.


Quick quotes

    The dual timeline narrative effectively intertwines the stories of two girls at the same boarding school, creating a compelling exploration of mystery and identity.

    The historical setting adds depth, making the characters' experiences feel both unique and relatable.

    The mystery at the heart of the story is engaging, and the way the timelines converge keeps the reader hooked.

Meredith Mara · Meredith Mara · 2021-05-18
delightful 4.00

The romance is beautifully developed with a slow-burn intensity that adds emotional depth to the story. The main character, Eva, is fiercely compelling, and her journey is both engaging and relatable.

One of the standout elements of this book is the romance, which is developed with a luxurious slow-burn intensity that feels both realistic and deeply satisfying. The main character, Eva, is exceptionally well-crafted, with a fierce determination that makes her journey compelling. Her relationships with other characters are nuanced and add layers to the story. The pacing of the romance and the character development make this book a delightful read, even though the mystery could have been more intricate. The author's ability to build emotional connections between characters is truly impressive.


Quick quotes

    The romance is a wonderful, luxurious slow-burn, and Taylor effortlessly builds her characters.

    Especially main character Eva, who is fierce and her journey is both engaging and relatable.

    The author's ability to build emotional connections between characters is truly impressive.