Speak No Evil is a gripping and emotionally charged young adult thriller that delves into the dark corners of trauma, resilience, and the healing power of music. Liana Gardner brilliantly crafts a story seeped in Cherokee lore that weaves together themes of family, loss, and the supernatural.

Set against the backdrop of Appalachian snake handlers and a hauntingly eerie gift, the story follows the journey of Melody Fisher, a young girl whose life is turned upside down after a tragic event. Melody Fisher’s journey is gut-wrenching, from the haunting loss of her mother amidst the world of snake handlers to the series of abuses she endures within the foster care system. Gardner navigates these sensitive topics with a raw and unflinching honesty. The novel brims with mystery, exploring the enigma behind Melody’s selective mutism and how a young girl from a loving family becomes entwined in such tragic circumstances. Readers are drawn to flip through the pages, trying to uncover her secrets.

The supernatural elements in Speak No Evil, like Melody’s musical connection with snakes, adds intrigue. Music is her lifeline, companion, and never abandons her, even in the darkest times. Gardner shows how music becomes her solace and expression when words fail. Her therapist’s use of song lyrics for communication is moving, highlighting art’s power to heal. I was also fascinated to learn that snakes can’t hear, a charming detail that caused me pause to reflect on her powers.

Speak No Evil flips back-and-forth between the past and the present, readers must pay attention to the date and age of melody when starting a new chapter. While it may require a moment of adjustment, this stylistic choice mirrors the fragmented nature of Melody’s memories and her journey toward healing. The shifting perspectives gradually reveal the interconnectedness of her experiences, leading to a more comprehensive understanding of her life. This approach, while possibly initially challenging, ultimately deepens the reading experience and aligns with the thematic exploration of trauma and restoration.

There’s a particular quote that stands out to me that I believe captures Melody. Quatie, Melody’s cherished foster parent, imparts the heartfelt truth that, “The soul would have no rainbows if the eyes had no tears.” this message serves as a reminder of Melody’s fate. It encapsulates her challenging path, rife with, fears, and ultimately, the triumph of finding her voice. Quatie’s words not only underscore the novel’s exploration of pain but also emphasize the power of hope. Throughout the story we see Melody’s journey from darkness to a place with color, mirroring her evolution from despair to strength.

Speak No Evil is a story of the remarkable strength of the human spirit, a connection to those we love, and the importance of staying true to ones own talents. From the opening song to the final note, readers are irresistibly drawn to rooting for Melody’s success. Her journey serves as a reminder that within each of us lie unique gifts, sometimes hidden and waiting to be rediscovered.

“From the opening song to the final note, readers are irresistibly drawn to rooting for Melody’s success.”

“Speak No Evil is a story of the remarkable strength of the human spirit, a connection to those we love, and the importance of staying true to ones own talents”