Blog Tour: Silent Night by Emma Read

Silent Night is a thrilling horror science-fiction adventure that is THE perfect read for wintry nights, a story that completely enthralled me from start to finish.

It’s a stormy Christmas Eve and thirteen-year-old Masen is spending the Christmas holidays with his extended family in an old cottage in South Wales. With not enough room for everyone in the cottage, Masen, his younger brother Joss and cousin Conor spend the night in the caravan parked on the drive.

When the boys wake up on Christmas morning, the storm has gone and snow is falling. Excited, they race into the cottage, eager to begin their Christmas Day with present opening, only to discover that there are no adults in the house. How is it possible that their families have disappeared on Christmas Day?

And so begins a brilliantly chilling, action-packed adventure as Masen, Conor and Joss find themselves caught up in a nightmarish mystery. Can they discover what has happened to their families? Can they find out what is wrong with the adults in the town who have left their homes? And, can they trust those they meet who have promised to reunite them with their parents?

I absolutely loved this atmospheric, horror sci-fi which is perfect for a middle-grade audience and beyond. There is a real sense of unease as the danger increases inexorably making this an absolute page-turner. I really enjoyed the pervading sense of threat, and the unexpected twists and revelations, as Masen slowly discovers the chilling truth, putting himself and others at terrible risk. Inspired by The Day of the Triffids, this thought-provoking adventure will open up some great discussions around ethical science.

Masen is a wonderfully sympathetic young boy who has an anxious nature. He shows incredible courage, inner strength and determination in discovering the truth about what has happened to the adults, putting himself at risk to help and protect others. I really liked the friendships that he forms with other children he meets, even when these are tested, and the bond that strengthens with his cousin Conor.

A terrifically thrilling and chilling read, with the strength of family and friendship at its heart, perfect for readers of 9+ to enjoy on a cold, winter’s day.

Thank you to Laura Smythe PR and Chicken House Books for inviting me to join the Blog Tour and for providing me with a copy of the book in exchange for my honest opinion.

Do check out the other stops on the Blog Tour: