The details…
- Author: Olivia Janae
- Publisher: Ylva Publishing (2nd revised edition)
- Publication date: July 11, 2022
- Available formats: ebook, paperback
- File size: 2602 KB
- Print length: 352 pages
- Genre: romance
- Themes: falling in love, opening the heart and trusting someone, understanding deafness, parenting, fulfilling one’s dreams
- Tropes: ice queen, opposites attract, workplace, rich girl/poor girl
The blurb from the publisher…
A beautiful, opposites attract lesbian romance about hearing the music in your heart.
Rising star cellist Kate Flynn is new to Chicago and her job at the Windy City Chamber Ensemble. On day one, she is surprised by the board’s intriguing president, Vivian Kensington. Not only does the woman come with a formidable reputation, but she’s also Deaf.
However, between a familiar face Kate isn’t ready to see again and the difficulties of being a single mom, she isn’t sure Chicago is the right place for her.
When tendrils of friendship develop with Vivian, Kate finds beneath her prickly ice queen persona unexpected kindness and warmth. Is the promise of more enough to make her stay? Can two such different women, one from a world of sound and one a world of silence, truly understand one another?
My thoughts…
The Loudest Silence was originally self published by Janae back in 2017. As an indie publication, Janae had approached Kate and Vivian’s story a bit differently. I read it then, when she first released it, and I loved it. As soon as I finished it, I wanted more of these characters and their story. When I had heard that Ylva Publishing had decided to rerelease The Loudest Silence, I was beyond excited. Janae’s 2017 version was good, but I knew Ylva could help her make it even better.
Under Ylva’s insightful editing, exciting changes occurred. Kate and Vivian’s original journey supported two books, but it was thin in some areas. Ylva recognized this and seized the opportunity to work their editing magic; they changed the two books into one. Condensing the story in this fashion may sound harsh, but the move produced a more streamlined narrative. Ylva was cautious though; they made sure that the essence of Janae’s story was not lost in the editing process. The 2022 second printing flows beautifully, giving readers everything they expect in a heartfelt and compelling romance.
What I originally enjoyed about the story is still true today. The characters are dynamic and beautifully drawn. The story is gripping and intense at times, making it more interesting and investment-worthy. Plus, it ventures into areas that I’ve rarely considered. As a hearing person partnered with another hearing person, I’ve never considered the complexities of navigating a relationship that is impacted by hearing impairments. Viewing a romance through Kate and Vivian’s lens is not only enlightening, it is heartwarming. The emotions are raw and real at times, and the storytelling captures this perfectly.
Final remarks…
I absolutely recommend this book. It is a gorgeously penned romance that will tug on your heartstrings. Kate and Vivian are captivating characters. Furthermore, Janae paints their relationship in such a beautiful light. The supporting characters enhance the story arc tenfold, making it even more dynamic and appealing. The Loudest Silence is a sensually bewitching tale, and a great addition to any romance lover’s book collection.
Strengths…
- Emotionally appealing
- Eye opening perspective
- Fresh, original storyline
- Dynamic, engaging characters
- Fantastic leading lady chemistry
- Interesting supporting characters
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A bit about the author…
Olivia Janae has been a life long writer. Growing up in California, it was always her dream to one day see her name on the cover of a book ever since she scribbled down her first story in a notebook at the age of eleven. To this day, she can’t believe that her dream has come true.
Now, Olivia is living outside of Chicago with her classical musician wife, son, and three cats.
Outside of her love of writing, Olivia is an avid movie buff with an obsessive love for cooking, candy making, ‘Buffy, The Vampire Slayer’, and Stephen King.
Connect with the author…
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