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Anyone But Her
Knowledge has a price…
It’s 1979, and 14-year-old Suzanne, who should be enjoying her first year at Denver East High, is instead reckoning with the aftermath of her mother Alex’s shooting death during a robbery at Alex’s store, Zoe’s Records. A clairvoyant since childhood, Suzanne is unsurprised when Alex’s ghost appears. But when Alex raises alarm bells about Suzanne’s father’s new girlfriend, what Suzanne can’t foresee is the lifelong repercussions as she heeds Alex’s warning.
In 2004, Suzanne returns to Denver with her husband and their children, a defiant teenage daughter and a 9-year-old son with unspecified cognitive disabilities. When the opportunity arises to turn the old Zoe’s Records space into a gallery, Suzanne jumps at the chance. While ecstatic to honor Alex’s legacy, Suzanne nonetheless can’t shake the sensation that she’s being watched—while at the same time tackling a clandestine investigation of her own, searching for genetic clues into her family’s hidden past that might lead to a diagnosis for her son.
What if she knows too little? What if she discovers too much?
It’s 1979, and 14-year-old Suzanne, who should be enjoying her first year at Denver East High, is instead reckoning with the aftermath of her mother Alex’s shooting death during a robbery at Alex’s store, Zoe’s Records. A clairvoyant since childhood, Suzanne is unsurprised when Alex’s ghost appears. But when Alex raises alarm bells about Suzanne’s father’s new girlfriend, what Suzanne can’t foresee is the lifelong repercussions as she heeds Alex’s warning.
In 2004, Suzanne returns to Denver with her husband and their children, a defiant teenage daughter and a 9-year-old son with unspecified cognitive disabilities. When the opportunity arises to turn the old Zoe’s Records space into a gallery, Suzanne jumps at the chance. While ecstatic to honor Alex’s legacy, Suzanne nonetheless can’t shake the sensation that she’s being watched—while at the same time tackling a clandestine investigation of her own, searching for genetic clues into her family’s hidden past that might lead to a diagnosis for her son.
What if she knows too little? What if she discovers too much?
350 pages, Paperback
Published September 17, 2024
35 people are currently reading
6531 people want to read
About the author
Cynthia Swanson
4 books776 followersCynthia Swanson is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the psychological suspense novels The Bookseller, The Glass Forest, and Anyone But Her. Cynthia was named 2025 Indie Author of the Year by the Indie Author Project, has received the Colorado Book Award (twice) and the WILLA Literary Award, won the Indie Author Project contest, and been a finalist for the High Plains Book Award, the WILLA Literary Award, and the CAL Award. She is also the editor of the award-winning anthology Denver Noir. She lives with her family in Denver. Find Cynthia online at www.cynthiaswansonauthor.com, Bluesky (cynswanauthor) and Substack (The What If Journal).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
September 7, 2024
The year is 1979 when Suzanne’s mother is shot and killed by an armed robber at her female-centered store, Zoe’s Records. Suzanne was only 14 at the time, and her brother, Chris, was only six. Her father moved on very quickly to his high school girlfriend, Peggy, who Chris loved and Suzanne hated (and the feelings were mutual!).
The year is 2004 when Suzanne, her husband Brett and their children, a teenage daughter named Caitlin and a cognitively impaired son, Austin, move back to Denver. Suzanne buys her mom’s old store and turns it into another female-centered studio, dealing in the arts. Being at Zoe’s brings out a lot of old memories, and she starts digging into the history of her life and the people in it.
Suzanne isn’t searching just to get closure on what happened in 1979, but she’s also looking at her family history to try to find out what Austin’s condition may be. He’s been diagnosed with ADHD, doctors unanimously agree that he is not on the autism spectrum, but his bouts of anger and violence are becoming more and more difficult to deal with.
Oh and there’s one other things - Suzanne is a “seer”. Wherever she goes, ghosts/spirits can communicate with her - even her own mom, who warned her to NEVER let her father marry Peggy after she died.
This was slightly slow, but the story was original and entertaining. I’m not sure why Austin’s character had the issues he did; it didn’t have much to do with the plot, though it was interesting to learn about his disorder and what it was in the end. I’m giving this 3.5 stars, rounded up because of all the times I said things like “Oh shit no…”, “Oh so she…!”, “Noooo HIM?!”, “Ohhh so…” while I was reading!
(Thank you to Columbine York, Cynthia Swanson and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my review. This book is slated to be released on September 17, 2024.)
The year is 2004 when Suzanne, her husband Brett and their children, a teenage daughter named Caitlin and a cognitively impaired son, Austin, move back to Denver. Suzanne buys her mom’s old store and turns it into another female-centered studio, dealing in the arts. Being at Zoe’s brings out a lot of old memories, and she starts digging into the history of her life and the people in it.
Suzanne isn’t searching just to get closure on what happened in 1979, but she’s also looking at her family history to try to find out what Austin’s condition may be. He’s been diagnosed with ADHD, doctors unanimously agree that he is not on the autism spectrum, but his bouts of anger and violence are becoming more and more difficult to deal with.
Oh and there’s one other things - Suzanne is a “seer”. Wherever she goes, ghosts/spirits can communicate with her - even her own mom, who warned her to NEVER let her father marry Peggy after she died.
This was slightly slow, but the story was original and entertaining. I’m not sure why Austin’s character had the issues he did; it didn’t have much to do with the plot, though it was interesting to learn about his disorder and what it was in the end. I’m giving this 3.5 stars, rounded up because of all the times I said things like “Oh shit no…”, “Oh so she…!”, “Noooo HIM?!”, “Ohhh so…” while I was reading!
(Thank you to Columbine York, Cynthia Swanson and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my review. This book is slated to be released on September 17, 2024.)
November 24, 2024
Loved that this was set in Denver. And I’m so excited to invite the author to join our book club for a hearty discussion. This was such a thrilling book with so many twists and turns. Definitely keeps you guessing. Cynthia did a wonderful job of incorporating the vibes of the two generations she covered. Highly recommend.
December 20, 2024
Such mixed feelings about this one! Loved the beginning. Middle got bogged down in so much neurosis and wheel-spinning I put it down for months. Enjoyed it more again when I picked it back up BUT….
Too much Denver name and history dropping, even as I appreciated reading a book set here again… frustrating pacing… good and bad stuff in how the unexpected ending came together… and really I’m just left with feeling more like the author was working through a lot writing this book rather than that the finished product came together well… Also like there’s so many points it’s making that they all get muddled and lost… and at least one of them (about the potential twisted impacts of closed adoptions) feels super problematic…
So that’s leaving me at a 2, though sections were a 4 and otherwise I might’ve at least settled on a 3. A disappointment too cause I really liked The Bookseller and her story and editor choices in Denver Noir.
Too much Denver name and history dropping, even as I appreciated reading a book set here again… frustrating pacing… good and bad stuff in how the unexpected ending came together… and really I’m just left with feeling more like the author was working through a lot writing this book rather than that the finished product came together well… Also like there’s so many points it’s making that they all get muddled and lost… and at least one of them (about the potential twisted impacts of closed adoptions) feels super problematic…
So that’s leaving me at a 2, though sections were a 4 and otherwise I might’ve at least settled on a 3. A disappointment too cause I really liked The Bookseller and her story and editor choices in Denver Noir.
July 21, 2025
This novel has it all! Mystery, intrigue, introspection, “hometown*” nostalgia, familial drama, secrets from the past, and some good ole mid-life-existentialist ennui. Oh, and a few quirky, artistic characters thrown in to make sure you know you are in Colorado.
The novel is pretty unique and had some twists and turns I wasn’t really expecting. Enjoyable and loved the trip down memory lane, even though the Denver past was a little far past the Denver I met in the early ‘90s, but much of it was still applicable. Definitely a good read for anyone who grew up in/near Denver or who loves a good mystery.
(Denver may not be where I was born, but after 30 years, it’s the closest I’ll get).
The novel is pretty unique and had some twists and turns I wasn’t really expecting. Enjoyable and loved the trip down memory lane, even though the Denver past was a little far past the Denver I met in the early ‘90s, but much of it was still applicable. Definitely a good read for anyone who grew up in/near Denver or who loves a good mystery.
(Denver may not be where I was born, but after 30 years, it’s the closest I’ll get).
October 18, 2024
Loved this book. Could not put it down--in fact, was up half the night. Compelling, fascinating plot. Suzanne, the heroine is complex, both sympathetic and a bit scary. Excellent writing. Highly recommend!
August 29, 2024
Couldn’t put this book down! Had to keep reading to unfold this complex weave of a mystery. The story is unpredictable and kept my interest with alternating chapters going back and forth in time. Loved the inclusion of role of Suzanne as a seer and the ghosts she encountered. Enjoyed the historical tidbits of Denver throughout. If you like a good psychological thriller, this one is for you.
September 15, 2024
I was lucky enough to get an advanced copy of this book. It is average amount of pages. I thought I’d read it over a week. No rush, nice book to read before bed.
I was hooked right away. Cynthia’s writing style has me wanting to visit Denver and find all the places, and historical houses, she mentions.
The characters aren’t perfect. They have their flaws. I like that in a book. I don’t want to read about a perfect life.
The twists and turns are not predictable, at least they weren’t to me.
The book does have intimate scenes, but they aren’t explicit or graphic. I like that. If your book club has people who might be offended by that, you can include this in your upcoming selection and no one would be uncomfortable. Other books by Ms. Swanson also have “glossed over” intimacy scenes.
This is her third stand alone novel, along with contributing to Denver Noir. I’ll be happy to add this to my Cynthia Swanson collection.
I was hooked right away. Cynthia’s writing style has me wanting to visit Denver and find all the places, and historical houses, she mentions.
The characters aren’t perfect. They have their flaws. I like that in a book. I don’t want to read about a perfect life.
The twists and turns are not predictable, at least they weren’t to me.
The book does have intimate scenes, but they aren’t explicit or graphic. I like that. If your book club has people who might be offended by that, you can include this in your upcoming selection and no one would be uncomfortable. Other books by Ms. Swanson also have “glossed over” intimacy scenes.
This is her third stand alone novel, along with contributing to Denver Noir. I’ll be happy to add this to my Cynthia Swanson collection.
January 10, 2025
Having lived and covered (as a community journalist) one of the Denver neighborhoods where Swanson’s novel takes place, I appreciated the historical detail she brought to the pages of Anyone But Her. From long-gone concert venues and restaurants to local legends like Don Cheadle, the book was packed with details showing the authors attention to research.
The story itself drew me in as well, testing my thinking in ways a good mystery book will. With every few chapters came a new guess or two about “who dunnit” and why… and frustrations with our protagonist for all the ways she undermines herself. Is this a lesson for us all? Hmm.
Toward the end, I fell out of love with the book. Swanson leans on an unhinged adoptee to wrap up the mystery. As an adoptee myself, I always cringe when I come across this.
The story itself drew me in as well, testing my thinking in ways a good mystery book will. With every few chapters came a new guess or two about “who dunnit” and why… and frustrations with our protagonist for all the ways she undermines herself. Is this a lesson for us all? Hmm.
Toward the end, I fell out of love with the book. Swanson leans on an unhinged adoptee to wrap up the mystery. As an adoptee myself, I always cringe when I come across this.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 23, 2024
An unexpected read for this year but was influenced since the book is set in my old neighborhood in Denver!! I loved being able to follow along the streets the narrator described as well as popular landmarks in the cap hill area. Plenty of twists and visits from ghosts of the past made this a quick and easy read
May 3, 2025
Hi, I’m Kim and I’m in a reading slump. I was hoping this book would snap me out of it. A suspense novel set in my hometown? Sign me up! However, the constant name dropping of the city felt like a broken record, even for this Denver Diehard. The plot was flat, and if I didn’t live here, I probably would’ve DNF’d it at the halfway point.
March 31, 2025
All of the Denver references were interesting.
November 25, 2024
5 words I would use to describe Anyone But Her are: Confusing, Original, Suspenseful, Redundant, and Unpredictable.
February 7, 2025
Anyone But Her is a psychological thriller by Cynthia Swanson. The novel flips between 1979 and 2004 in Denver around Colfax. Swanson’s story revolves around harm coming from ones that are known and trusted. A bit like Fatal Attraction, SWF or the many others. The originality comes from the protagonist's ability to see and at times communicate with ghosts. Swanson makes the first antagonist obvious to help set up the rest of the story. The second threat is more of a mystery. Swanson increases the suspense quite a bit through the last part of the novel to a thrilling climax. The protagonist’s two stories are entertaining and engaging. This book is a fast fun read, and a bit hard to put down. There is a lot of foreshadowing at the end of chapters. Setting the story in Denver will attract readers from the city.
November 12, 2024
This is the second novel I have read by Cynthia Swanson and I definitely want to check out anything else I may have missed. Cynthia is a strong writer and she had me captivated, wanting to read this whenever I had the chance!
The story is both nostalgic and haunting, as well as suspenseful. I had no idea what would happen from one moment to the next. It kept me guessing the entire time and I was completely surprised. I also loved the use of music throughout. I loved the back and forth timelines. Cynthia did really well giving off the late 1970s feel. I may have been too young at the time, but it just felt easy to visualize that time period. I cared a lot about Suzanne in both timelines. It felt like she couldn't catch a break.
My only issue is not with the book, but my access to it from NetGalley. It was only available via the shelf app, which has to be read on a phone. There were some formatting issues that went along with this. It also expires from the app and given I'm behind on reviews as it is, I wasn't able to go back for casting ideas. This does not affect how much I liked this novel, but I wish NetGalley had better technology for this app (so it can be used on a Kindle) or allowed for this one to be sent directly to Kindle like they normally do.
Overall it is really well-told and engaging and definitely a worthwhile read.
(Trigger warnings below.)
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TW: murder, armed robbery, possible harm to an animal, stalking, kidnapping
The story is both nostalgic and haunting, as well as suspenseful. I had no idea what would happen from one moment to the next. It kept me guessing the entire time and I was completely surprised. I also loved the use of music throughout. I loved the back and forth timelines. Cynthia did really well giving off the late 1970s feel. I may have been too young at the time, but it just felt easy to visualize that time period. I cared a lot about Suzanne in both timelines. It felt like she couldn't catch a break.
My only issue is not with the book, but my access to it from NetGalley. It was only available via the shelf app, which has to be read on a phone. There were some formatting issues that went along with this. It also expires from the app and given I'm behind on reviews as it is, I wasn't able to go back for casting ideas. This does not affect how much I liked this novel, but I wish NetGalley had better technology for this app (so it can be used on a Kindle) or allowed for this one to be sent directly to Kindle like they normally do.
Overall it is really well-told and engaging and definitely a worthwhile read.
(Trigger warnings below.)
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*
*
*
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TW: murder, armed robbery, possible harm to an animal, stalking, kidnapping
December 1, 2024
I've read the author's 2 previous novels (The Bookseller and The Glass Forest) and really enjoyed them so was looking forward to reading Anyone but Her. I was so disappointed. I felt like I was reading three separate novels, rather than a cohesive storyline. I couldn't keep some of the characters straight in my mind and would have to go back to earlier chapters to remind myself who this character is. The first 2/3 of the novel seemed most fluid but the last third and the last couple of chapters, although related to the first 2/3, were so disconnected. Tori was peripheral to the first 2/3 of the novel yet became a protagonist at the end. The author indicates that the book was self published and that she had set a deadline for herself; I wish she had forgone the deadline to produce a better caliber read.
September 16, 2024
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.
Cynthia Swanson’s “Anyone But Her” is a poignant and gripping tale that masterfully blends psychological suspense with a deep exploration of family dynamics and personal trauma. Set against the backdrop of 1979 Denver, the novel follows 14-year-old Suzanne as she grapples with the aftermath of her mother Alex’s tragic death during a robbery at her store, Zoe’s Records.
Swanson’s narrative is haunting and evocative, drawing readers into Suzanne’s world with vivid descriptions and a keen sense of place. The alternating timelines between Suzanne’s teenage years and her adult life add a layer of complexity to the story, gradually revealing the secrets and lies that have shaped her family’s history.
One of the novel’s greatest strengths is its character development. Suzanne is a deeply relatable protagonist, whose journey of self-discovery and healing is both heart-wrenching and inspiring. Swanson’s portrayal of her emotional struggles is nuanced and authentic, making Suzanne’s pain and resilience palpable. The supporting characters, including Suzanne’s enigmatic aunt and her estranged father, are equally well-written, each adding depth and intrigue to the narrative.
The themes of love, loyalty, and the quest for truth are central to “Anyone But Her.” Swanson deftly explores how the past can haunt the present, and how secrets, once uncovered, can either destroy or heal. The novel’s psychological depth is enhanced by Swanson’s skillful writing, which keeps readers engaged and invested in Suzanne’s journey.
The setting of Denver in the late 1970s is brought to life with meticulous detail, from the cultural references to the atmospheric descriptions of the city. This sense of time and place adds an extra layer of immersion, making the story feel both timeless and grounded in its historical context.
“Anyone But Her” is a must-read for fans of psychological suspense and family dramas. Cynthia Swanson has crafted a compelling and emotionally resonant novel that will remain with the readers. Her ability to weave a complex, engaging narrative with richly developed characters is a testament to her skill as a storyteller. This book is a powerful exploration of the ties that bind us and the secrets that can tear us apart.
Cynthia Swanson’s “Anyone But Her” is a poignant and gripping tale that masterfully blends psychological suspense with a deep exploration of family dynamics and personal trauma. Set against the backdrop of 1979 Denver, the novel follows 14-year-old Suzanne as she grapples with the aftermath of her mother Alex’s tragic death during a robbery at her store, Zoe’s Records.
Swanson’s narrative is haunting and evocative, drawing readers into Suzanne’s world with vivid descriptions and a keen sense of place. The alternating timelines between Suzanne’s teenage years and her adult life add a layer of complexity to the story, gradually revealing the secrets and lies that have shaped her family’s history.
One of the novel’s greatest strengths is its character development. Suzanne is a deeply relatable protagonist, whose journey of self-discovery and healing is both heart-wrenching and inspiring. Swanson’s portrayal of her emotional struggles is nuanced and authentic, making Suzanne’s pain and resilience palpable. The supporting characters, including Suzanne’s enigmatic aunt and her estranged father, are equally well-written, each adding depth and intrigue to the narrative.
The themes of love, loyalty, and the quest for truth are central to “Anyone But Her.” Swanson deftly explores how the past can haunt the present, and how secrets, once uncovered, can either destroy or heal. The novel’s psychological depth is enhanced by Swanson’s skillful writing, which keeps readers engaged and invested in Suzanne’s journey.
The setting of Denver in the late 1970s is brought to life with meticulous detail, from the cultural references to the atmospheric descriptions of the city. This sense of time and place adds an extra layer of immersion, making the story feel both timeless and grounded in its historical context.
“Anyone But Her” is a must-read for fans of psychological suspense and family dramas. Cynthia Swanson has crafted a compelling and emotionally resonant novel that will remain with the readers. Her ability to weave a complex, engaging narrative with richly developed characters is a testament to her skill as a storyteller. This book is a powerful exploration of the ties that bind us and the secrets that can tear us apart.
August 5, 2024
Suzanne Parry was 14 years old in 1979. Life was relatively quiet in Denver. Her parents on again/off again marriage was on. Her younger brother adored her and her artsy mom Alex owned one of the coolest stores in Denver, Zoe’s Records. One day while her mom was working late, her store was robbed and she was tragically murdered. Nothing would ever be the same again. Suzanne had to look after Chris and ward off Peggy, the absolutely wrong woman who was vying to take her mother’s place in the family. Suzanne, always slightly clairvoyant, begins to see ghosts and sense their spirit. Finally, her mother comes to her. As mom-not-mom begins to lead her down a path of discovery, Suzanne can no longer ignore the terrifying truth. In 2004, Suzanne returns to Denver with her husband Brett and their two children. Her rebellious teenage daughter is resentful of the move while Austin struggles with behavioral issues. As Brett begins a new tech job, Suzanne recreates Zoe’s as an eclectic art emporium bringing part of her childhood and memories of her mother alive. But the ghosts will not remain at bay. Someone is following her, taunting her. The mysteries of their family are not fully resolved and Suzanne will do whatever it takes to protect her children from the past. Full of musical nostalgia, ghosts and family drama - this new fall release has it all. A quick page turner I could not put down!
November 14, 2024
This book was much shorter than I expected. It’s a dual timeline narrative where the present is set in 2004. This seems to work primarily for the past timeline to be set in 1979.
Suzanne has moved back to Denver for her husband’s job. She moved away very early in her life, something that we get to see in more detail as the plot progresses. What we do know is that things changed when her mother was shot and then her ghost appeared to Suzanne. The aspect of being able to see ghosts was not discussed much without the connection to her mother or the incidents surrounding it. I felt like the story would have worked even without it.
There is something ominous in the air and we do not know how much of it is because of the past and how much is happening in the present.
I would not have seen the ending coming even with a little more help because of all the distractions placed in our way. I found all the twists diverting and that they played out well in the context. That said, I felt like the whole ending happened quite abruptly. The pacing seemed sudden after the slow build up with information being dropped every chapter slowly in drips.
I think people who read this genre more frequently will better appreciate the book. I did like the writing style and would definitely read another by the author.
I received an ARC thanks to Netgalley and the publishers but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience.
Suzanne has moved back to Denver for her husband’s job. She moved away very early in her life, something that we get to see in more detail as the plot progresses. What we do know is that things changed when her mother was shot and then her ghost appeared to Suzanne. The aspect of being able to see ghosts was not discussed much without the connection to her mother or the incidents surrounding it. I felt like the story would have worked even without it.
There is something ominous in the air and we do not know how much of it is because of the past and how much is happening in the present.
I would not have seen the ending coming even with a little more help because of all the distractions placed in our way. I found all the twists diverting and that they played out well in the context. That said, I felt like the whole ending happened quite abruptly. The pacing seemed sudden after the slow build up with information being dropped every chapter slowly in drips.
I think people who read this genre more frequently will better appreciate the book. I did like the writing style and would definitely read another by the author.
I received an ARC thanks to Netgalley and the publishers but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience.
November 28, 2024
This was fine, it got good at around 90% which is a pretty long time to wait, but I finished it and it did come together at the end! It could be because I listened to the audiobook - the writing was fine, it was just difficult to really become immersed. Good and Opps for Improvement Below -
Good - the ending! I thought the way that Caitlyn came to rescue Suzanne was just what this book needed to be more exciting, interesting, and make me like them both more. And the resolutions at the end were worth the wait, although I was very close to DNF a few times. I also thought the writer did a great job with character descriptions and realistic portrayal for the most part.
Less Good - the build up was long, the twist at the end wasn't overly captivating, most of the entire book I kept waiting for something very exciting to happen and had to wait basically the entirety of the book. Suzanne's dad felt like a well-read robot trying to be human sometimes but he did show more of his humanity at the end! It was difficult to really like any of the characters including Suzanne until the end, and even then none of them really stick with you. I was also disappointed because I feel like Suzanne's gift to interact with the paranormal is super cool/interesting and there could have been a lot more done with that angle than there was in the novel. Felt like a missed opportunity there!
Overall a good audiobook listen to pass the time, with a solid ending.
Good - the ending! I thought the way that Caitlyn came to rescue Suzanne was just what this book needed to be more exciting, interesting, and make me like them both more. And the resolutions at the end were worth the wait, although I was very close to DNF a few times. I also thought the writer did a great job with character descriptions and realistic portrayal for the most part.
Less Good - the build up was long, the twist at the end wasn't overly captivating, most of the entire book I kept waiting for something very exciting to happen and had to wait basically the entirety of the book. Suzanne's dad felt like a well-read robot trying to be human sometimes but he did show more of his humanity at the end! It was difficult to really like any of the characters including Suzanne until the end, and even then none of them really stick with you. I was also disappointed because I feel like Suzanne's gift to interact with the paranormal is super cool/interesting and there could have been a lot more done with that angle than there was in the novel. Felt like a missed opportunity there!
Overall a good audiobook listen to pass the time, with a solid ending.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 13, 2024
In 1979, 14-year-old Suzanne is mourning the death of her mother, Alex, who was shot while working at the record stores she owns. Alex’s ghost warns Suzanne about the woman her father starts dating, Peggy. Truly, Peggy gave me the heebie jeebies, but Suzanne’s younger brother loves her, because to him, she becomes a second mother.
In 2004, Suzanne returns to Colorado with her husband and her daughter, a spectacularly ornery teenager, and her 9-year-old son, who has behavioral problems but so far doctors aren’t coming up with a diagnosis that can help him. Suzanne hopes that the doctors in Denver will uncover some answers, but the waiting list for help is long. When Suzanne discovers her mother’s old record shop, which has been a number of different businesses over the years, is up for sale, she wants to buy it and turn it into a store celebrating women artists.
They caught the man who shot her mother right after the shooting, but there are still a few mysteries about what happened when Suzanne was a teenager and what is happening to her as an adult—for example, did her dog just run away and decide not to come back, or is something more nefarious at work?
I always enjoy well-written books set in my hometown of Denver, and the mysteries were compelling.
NetGalley provided an advance copy of this novel, which RELEASES SEPTEMBER 17, 2024.
In 2004, Suzanne returns to Colorado with her husband and her daughter, a spectacularly ornery teenager, and her 9-year-old son, who has behavioral problems but so far doctors aren’t coming up with a diagnosis that can help him. Suzanne hopes that the doctors in Denver will uncover some answers, but the waiting list for help is long. When Suzanne discovers her mother’s old record shop, which has been a number of different businesses over the years, is up for sale, she wants to buy it and turn it into a store celebrating women artists.
They caught the man who shot her mother right after the shooting, but there are still a few mysteries about what happened when Suzanne was a teenager and what is happening to her as an adult—for example, did her dog just run away and decide not to come back, or is something more nefarious at work?
I always enjoy well-written books set in my hometown of Denver, and the mysteries were compelling.
NetGalley provided an advance copy of this novel, which RELEASES SEPTEMBER 17, 2024.
September 17, 2025
Between 1979 and 2004, a lot has changed and yet some things stay the same. Her mother is still dead from a gunshot wound and Suzanne still sees ghosts - some are spectral and some are people from the past who have no business being in her life.
In 1979, Suzanne’s mother was murdered during a robbery at her record store. The perpetrator was killed trying to make his get-away. After the murder, her mother appears to Suzanne but not to console her, but to warn her against the woman who has inserted herself into their lives and is hell bent on marrying her father.
In 2004, Suzanne has moved back to Denver with her husband and children. She finds the old record store vacant and an idea blooms to create a welcoming space for women artists, writers and musicians to sell the products of their creativity. But things go haywire as ghosts from the past rear their heads and worse, her dog Stevie goes missing.
It’s a twisty mystery of who is actually the person responsible for her mother’s death and who is tormenting Suzanne during the present. If you’re from Denver in the 70’s, the book will bring back memories of places that no longer exist. Remember the Rainbow Music Hall? Eerie and enjoyable, worth the read. Plus, I made a playlist on Spotify (Anyone But Her playlist) that features the songs and artists mentioned throughout the book.
In 1979, Suzanne’s mother was murdered during a robbery at her record store. The perpetrator was killed trying to make his get-away. After the murder, her mother appears to Suzanne but not to console her, but to warn her against the woman who has inserted herself into their lives and is hell bent on marrying her father.
In 2004, Suzanne has moved back to Denver with her husband and children. She finds the old record store vacant and an idea blooms to create a welcoming space for women artists, writers and musicians to sell the products of their creativity. But things go haywire as ghosts from the past rear their heads and worse, her dog Stevie goes missing.
It’s a twisty mystery of who is actually the person responsible for her mother’s death and who is tormenting Suzanne during the present. If you’re from Denver in the 70’s, the book will bring back memories of places that no longer exist. Remember the Rainbow Music Hall? Eerie and enjoyable, worth the read. Plus, I made a playlist on Spotify (Anyone But Her playlist) that features the songs and artists mentioned throughout the book.
July 10, 2024
Anyone But Her drew me in to Suzanne’s story on the first page with the news of a missing young woman. The suspense of the events in the alternating chapters – alternating between Suzanne’s teenage and adult years kept me interested – what will happen next? – and made it difficult to put down. The simultaneous telling of the events of her life helped to understand her motivations, fears, ambivalence in her adult life.
There is the aftermath of her mother’s murder when she was 14 - its impact on and the reactions of each family member. And the stress of a move from California to Denver, Suzanne’s hometown – with a sense of foreshadowing when a rat is found on their doorstep on move in day - on her own family – her teenaged daughter (going through her own rebellions) and young son (with as yet, undiagnosed, neurodivergent behavior patterns) make this a great book discussion read. Family secrets, dysfunction, mental illness, neurodivergence are a few of the topics I wanted to discuss with another reader.
Thank you to NetGalley and Cynthia Swanson for the advanced copy of Anyone But Her.
There is the aftermath of her mother’s murder when she was 14 - its impact on and the reactions of each family member. And the stress of a move from California to Denver, Suzanne’s hometown – with a sense of foreshadowing when a rat is found on their doorstep on move in day - on her own family – her teenaged daughter (going through her own rebellions) and young son (with as yet, undiagnosed, neurodivergent behavior patterns) make this a great book discussion read. Family secrets, dysfunction, mental illness, neurodivergence are a few of the topics I wanted to discuss with another reader.
Thank you to NetGalley and Cynthia Swanson for the advanced copy of Anyone But Her.
September 12, 2024
A page turning psychological suspense novel I enjoyed.
“Anyone but Her” begins in 1979 with the robbing and killing of Alex Parry who owns a record store specializing in women recording artists on East Colfax in Denver.
She leaves behind her clairvoyant 14-year-old daughter Suzanne, her six-year-old son Chris and her husband Jim.
While Suzanne is still mourning her mother’s death, her mother’s spirit visits her to express her concern about her father's rekindling relationship with his high school sweetheart Peggy Hicks. Tension builds between Peggy and Suzanne when it becomes clear Peggy would rather not have Suzanne around.
Alternating chapters between 1979 and 2004 follow Suzanne from high school to college to becoming a strong 40-year-old wife.
This is an action-packed story with down-to-earth characters, ghostly happenings, and great descriptions of Denver.
If you love psychological suspense novels like I do, you will find “Anyone but Her” to be a rewarding reading experience. Enjoy!
“Anyone but Her” begins in 1979 with the robbing and killing of Alex Parry who owns a record store specializing in women recording artists on East Colfax in Denver.
She leaves behind her clairvoyant 14-year-old daughter Suzanne, her six-year-old son Chris and her husband Jim.
While Suzanne is still mourning her mother’s death, her mother’s spirit visits her to express her concern about her father's rekindling relationship with his high school sweetheart Peggy Hicks. Tension builds between Peggy and Suzanne when it becomes clear Peggy would rather not have Suzanne around.
Alternating chapters between 1979 and 2004 follow Suzanne from high school to college to becoming a strong 40-year-old wife.
This is an action-packed story with down-to-earth characters, ghostly happenings, and great descriptions of Denver.
If you love psychological suspense novels like I do, you will find “Anyone but Her” to be a rewarding reading experience. Enjoy!
July 2, 2024
Anyone but Her by Cynthia Swanson is a great book that I am still thinking about, days after finishing it.
14 year old Suzanne, a clairvoyant, is supposed to be starting a new chapter as she enters high school, but is instead mourning her murdered mom, Alex, the owner of a record store. Her mother’s ghost warns her about her dad’s new girlfriend and Suzanne’s life changes forever, whether she realizes it or not.
As an adult she comes back home with her family and has the opportunity to buy her mom’s old store and does. Meanwhile her son has his own issues, and as Suzanne tries to deal with them she has her own problems because she thinks she is being followed. Is everything connected?
I was hooked from the beginning of this book and was sad when it ended. I thoroughly enjoyed the whole thing and want more!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC in consideration of an honest review. All opinions are mine.
14 year old Suzanne, a clairvoyant, is supposed to be starting a new chapter as she enters high school, but is instead mourning her murdered mom, Alex, the owner of a record store. Her mother’s ghost warns her about her dad’s new girlfriend and Suzanne’s life changes forever, whether she realizes it or not.
As an adult she comes back home with her family and has the opportunity to buy her mom’s old store and does. Meanwhile her son has his own issues, and as Suzanne tries to deal with them she has her own problems because she thinks she is being followed. Is everything connected?
I was hooked from the beginning of this book and was sad when it ended. I thoroughly enjoyed the whole thing and want more!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC in consideration of an honest review. All opinions are mine.
December 17, 2024
I’ve been an avid fan of Cynthia Swanson’s since reading her first two brilliant novels, “The Bookseller” and “The Glass Forest.” She has a keen eye for creating distinctive settings and twisty plots. More importantly, Swanson delivers believable characters whose emotions spill onto the page and become your own. Her newest novel, “Anyone But Her,” is no exception. Here, Swanson brings the city of Denver to vivid life both in 1979 and in 2004 in an intricately intertwined mystery. She also delivers characters you want to root for from the start—especially our protagonist, Suzanne, whose mother is murdered when she was a teenager, and Suzanne’s unruly, angsty daughter, who has some of the funniest teen comebacks in literature. Once you suspend whatever doubts you might have about ghosts not only walking but talking, among us, you’re in for an exhilarating read that will keep you guessing from start to finish. I couldn’t put this book down.
April 3, 2025
I don't often write reviews for books, but I had to write one for this book because I LOVED it! First, it was really fun to read about all the Denver landmarks. Second, the story is fantastic! There are two timelines. The first follows Suzanne as a teenager in 1979 after her mother is murdered. The second follows Suzanne in 2004 after she moves back to Denver. Things are a little off in Denver, but Suzanne can't figure out what exactly. She slowly starts to feel more paranoid as things happen even though she cannot say for sure that these things are purposeful. Oh, and did I mention there are ghosts? This book is a slow burn, and I absolutely love that. It's kind of hard to pull off, but Cynthia Swanson does it beautifully. I was hooked. I was reading a few chapters a night to savor the book, but when I got about 60% in, I couldn't take it anymore and marathoned through it! I highly recommend this book!
October 7, 2025
I loved that this story was set in Denver, the city where I was raised. The descriptions were so vivid that I could truly envision every neighborhood and backdrop. It felt familiar and nostalgic. That said, it also became a bit much at times, with so many specific locations mentioned that it started to feel more like a name-drop tour of Denver than a natural setting.
The storyline itself was intriguing, and the plot had strong potential, but it felt a little jumbled in places. There were several threads and characters I wish the author had explored more deeply. The main character’s twenty years in California before moving back to Denver, or the story of the missing girl. Both had emotional weight but were brushed past too quickly.
Overall, it was a good premise and enjoyable read, but the execution felt too convoluted and rushed, especially for a book marketed as historical fiction. I wanted more depth, more development, and a little less surface-level detail.
The storyline itself was intriguing, and the plot had strong potential, but it felt a little jumbled in places. There were several threads and characters I wish the author had explored more deeply. The main character’s twenty years in California before moving back to Denver, or the story of the missing girl. Both had emotional weight but were brushed past too quickly.
Overall, it was a good premise and enjoyable read, but the execution felt too convoluted and rushed, especially for a book marketed as historical fiction. I wanted more depth, more development, and a little less surface-level detail.
July 19, 2024
Book: Anyone But Her
Author: Cynthia Swanson
Publisher: Columbine York
Pub Date: September 17, 2024
I was very excited to see a new book by Cynthia Swanson. I loved her book The Glass Forest. This story is told from two timelines. One from 1979 when Suzanne is 14 years old and the other is present time when she is married with two kids. There were so many layers to this story. And I felt like a lot of unnecessary layers. I was very confused reading this book and I am sure it was just me. I never could wrap my head around the missing girl and Robert Shelton, Jr in the present time. I don’t really know what else to say other than I was just confused. I am still giving it 3 stars because I can still recommend reading it. I feel like this is a “it’s not you, it’s me” situation.
Thank you Columbine York and NetGalley for this sneak peak! Publication date is September 17, 2024.
Author: Cynthia Swanson
Publisher: Columbine York
Pub Date: September 17, 2024
I was very excited to see a new book by Cynthia Swanson. I loved her book The Glass Forest. This story is told from two timelines. One from 1979 when Suzanne is 14 years old and the other is present time when she is married with two kids. There were so many layers to this story. And I felt like a lot of unnecessary layers. I was very confused reading this book and I am sure it was just me. I never could wrap my head around the missing girl and Robert Shelton, Jr in the present time. I don’t really know what else to say other than I was just confused. I am still giving it 3 stars because I can still recommend reading it. I feel like this is a “it’s not you, it’s me” situation.
Thank you Columbine York and NetGalley for this sneak peak! Publication date is September 17, 2024.
September 3, 2024
"Anyone But Her" follows 14-year-old Suzanne in 1979, as she deals with her mom’s murder in a Denver record store, and 40-year-old Suzanne in 2004 as she moves back to Denver with her husband and two kids. Anyone who has lived in Denver will be drawn into the references of the city, but the plot is entertaining even if you have no frame of reference.
Suzanne is a clairvoyant with complicated relationships with her family. She has been able to see ghosts wandering the streets in local parks all her life. When her murdered mother begins to send her messages to help solve unanswered questions about her murder it leads Suzanne down a path to help solve a local missing person’s case. The ghost component is not scary but provides a complex layer into the overall plot. Overall a fun and quick read.
Suzanne is a clairvoyant with complicated relationships with her family. She has been able to see ghosts wandering the streets in local parks all her life. When her murdered mother begins to send her messages to help solve unanswered questions about her murder it leads Suzanne down a path to help solve a local missing person’s case. The ghost component is not scary but provides a complex layer into the overall plot. Overall a fun and quick read.
January 14, 2025
Cynthia Swanson's Anyone But Her is about a woman with two kids and a husband coming home to Denver where her mother was murdered when she was a teen. When the realistic complications of Suzanne's adult life converge with the unresolved traumatic events of her childhood, everything comes undone. Suzanne is drawn to her mother's boarded up record shop where her mother was murdered. She has always been able to see ghosts, and when strange things start happening, it takes Suzanne back to when her mother died. Her mother visited her as a ghost and the mystery around her mother's death unfolds alongside the mystery of a series of strange occurrences since she and her family moved to Denver. There is an authenticity to Cynthia's writing and this book in particular involves characters with real grit and unsentimental flaws that I appreciate. A great read!
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