The Silence Factory: A Novel By Bridget Collins

The Silence Factory by Bridget Collins is a mesmerizing gothic tale that intertwines suspense, magic, and dark family secrets. Set in 1820, the story follows Sophia Ashmore-Percy, who, while accompanying her husband on a scientific expedition to a remote Greek island, embarks on a journey of self-discovery. She uncovers a creature her husband seeks, forms an unexpected bond with a local woman, and rethinks her life and desires.

Decades later, audiologist Henry Latimer arrives at Carthmute House, the home of industrialist Sir Edward Ashmore-Percy, to cure his daughter, Philomel, of deafness. However, Henry quickly becomes obsessed with the rare and magical silk Sir Edward's business is built upon—a silk spun by a unique breed of spiders that can shield sound. This silk offers tranquility to its wearers but torments those nearby with eerie murmurs, leading to mental and physical afflictions.

As Henry delves deeper into the secrets of the Ashmore-Percy family, he uncovers the sinister truths behind the silk and its production. The novel explores themes of complicity, desire, and corruption, all while unraveling a dark and dangerous history. With her signature stunning prose, Collins crafts a story that is both captivating and unsettling, drawing readers into the eerie world of Carthmute House and the chilling legacy of The Silence Factory.