Speechless by Hannah Harrington

Speechless by Hannah Harrington

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Source: Ontario Blogger Meet-Up
Publisher: Harlequin Teen
Format: Paperback, 288 pages
Release Date: August 28, 2012

Everyone knows that Chelsea Knot can't keep a secret

Until now. Because the last secret she shared turned her into a social outcast—and nearly got someone killed.

Now Chelsea has taken a vow of silence—to learn to keep her mouth shut, and to stop hurting anyone else. And if she thinks keeping secrets is hard, not speaking up when she's ignored, ridiculed and even attacked is worse.

But there's strength in silence, and in the new friends who are, shockingly, coming her way—people she never noticed before; a boy she might even fall for. If only her new friends can forgive what she's done. If only she can forgive herself.
 

Hannah Harrington breathes new life and urgency into this classic cautionary tale.

Chelsea Knot makes a mistake... one that changes her entire life. Although she doesn't start off as the most likeable character, I could never bring myself to hate Chelsea. There's this spark of innate goodness in her and watching it grow as the novel progressed was one of my favourite aspects of the book. Chelsea's not the most selfless person in the world but when it counts, she stands up for what she knows to be right and that was so refreshing to read.

The secondary characters -- Asha, Sam, Andy, Lou, Dex and Noah -- that Chelsea gets to know were so bright and colourful. Harrington strikes a perfect balance with letting them shine and allowing the main character room to grow on her own.

I've heard from other readers that this novel and Hannah Harrington's debut were emotionally-charged reads but I didn't really see it until I started reading myself. I cried, I laughed and I hugged the book to my chest upon completion -- I can give no higher compliment ;)

The issues in Speechless aren't presented subtly and the impact that they leave is a big one. I loved the portrayal of these sensitive and hugely important topics and would recommend it to anyone.

First Words: AHHHH I LOVE THIS BOOK!!!!!! *clings*

Cover Comments: I'm so so so fascinated by the choice to use a blank white cover! I would be so curious to see how that impacted sales. I saw it in the bookstore and it definitely does stand out. What do you think of the choice to keep it simple?

5 Golden Crowns!

First one of 2013! That sure didn't take long...