
03 Feb Book Review: Remain Silent by Susie Steiner
I recently picked up Remain Silent by Susie Steiner, the third installment in the DS Manon Bradshaw series. Having enjoyed the previous books, I was eager to see where Manon’s journey would lead next.
What’s it about?
In Remain Silent, we find Detective Inspector Manon Bradshaw at 46, balancing her part-time role in the Cambridgeshire police’s cold case unit with the demands of family life. She lives with her partner, Mark Talbot, their young son, Teddy, and her adopted teenage son, Fly. Manon is content with her routine, enjoying the predictability of cold cases and the semblance of work-life balance.
However, her tranquility is shattered when she and Teddy discover the body of a Lithuanian immigrant hanging from a tree in a local park. While it appears to be a suicide, further investigation reveals a darker narrative. Manon is drawn into a case that exposes the exploitation of Eastern European migrants, who arrive in the UK seeking better opportunities but instead find themselves trapped in a cycle of debt, squalid living conditions, and abuse.
As Manon delves deeper, she uncovers a network of labor trafficking and modern-day slavery operating within the community. The investigation becomes personal as she grapples with her own biases and the systemic failures that allow such injustices to persist. Simultaneously, Manon faces challenges at home: Mark’s declining health, the complexities of raising a teenager, and the strains these issues place on her relationship.
The narrative weaves together multiple perspectives, including those of the migrant workers, providing a harrowing look at their experiences and the harsh realities they endure. Steiner’s portrayal of these characters adds depth to the story, highlighting the human cost of exploitation and the often-overlooked struggles of immigrant communities.
What This Chick Thinks
Diving into Remain Silent, I was reminded of why I appreciate Susie Steiner’s writing. Manon Bradshaw is a refreshingly authentic protagonist—flawed, candid, and deeply human. Her internal monologues are both astute and humorous, offering a relatable glimpse into the challenges of middle age, parenthood, and the quest for justice.
The novel’s pacing is deliberate, allowing for a thorough exploration of character dynamics and societal issues. While some readers might find the multiple narratives and internal commentary a bit discursive, I felt they enriched the story, providing a comprehensive view of the case and its broader implications.
Steiner masterfully balances the procedural aspects of the investigation with the personal lives of her characters. The depiction of the migrant workers’ plight is both poignant and eye-opening, shedding light on a critical issue that often remains in the shadows. The supporting characters, particularly Davy Walker, Manon’s colleague, offer a counterbalance to her cynicism, highlighting her strengths and vulnerabilities.
Final Thoughts
Remain Silent is a compelling addition to the Manon Bradshaw series, blending elements of crime, social commentary, and personal introspection. Susie Steiner’s nuanced storytelling and well-drawn characters make for an engaging read that resonates beyond the final page. I’d rate it an 8 out of 10 for its depth, humor, and unflinching look at pressing societal issues.
Try it if you like:
- “The Burning” by Jane Casey
A gripping crime novel featuring a strong female detective delving into complex cases while balancing personal challenges. - “The Trespasser” by Tana French
A psychological thriller that combines a compelling mystery with deep character exploration within a police procedural framework. - “The Chalk Man” by C.J. Tudor
A suspenseful tale that intertwines past and present mysteries, revealing dark secrets in a small community.
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