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Agent Victoria Heslin #6
Vanished on Vacation
2022 Global Book Awards Winner - Thriller Category
Three college students enjoy a luxury resort vacation in Mexico…until one of them disappears.
As a frantic search for missing student Avery Jennings begins, everyone is hiding something—Avery’s family and friends, the resort’s staff, and its wealthy guests. It’s up to FBI Special Agent Victoria Heslin to dig deeper. Motivated by her own mother’s abduction years ago, she’s determined not to let Avery become another missing person statistic.
The Mexican authorities aren’t cooperating, and Victoria realizes she’s up against something more powerful than she imagined. Taking matters into her own hands, she plunges into a hellish ordeal that will test her strength and courage like never before.
“How much will you risk to find this girl?” the officer asked.
“Whatever it takes,” Victoria answered without hesitation.
Or is it already too late?
Three college students enjoy a luxury resort vacation in Mexico…until one of them disappears.
As a frantic search for missing student Avery Jennings begins, everyone is hiding something—Avery’s family and friends, the resort’s staff, and its wealthy guests. It’s up to FBI Special Agent Victoria Heslin to dig deeper. Motivated by her own mother’s abduction years ago, she’s determined not to let Avery become another missing person statistic.
The Mexican authorities aren’t cooperating, and Victoria realizes she’s up against something more powerful than she imagined. Taking matters into her own hands, she plunges into a hellish ordeal that will test her strength and courage like never before.
“How much will you risk to find this girl?” the officer asked.
“Whatever it takes,” Victoria answered without hesitation.
Or is it already too late?
317 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 7, 2022
1327 people are currently reading
2111 people want to read
About the author
Jenifer Ruff
66 books633 followersUSA Today bestselling author Jenifer Ruff writes dark and twisty mystery thrillers, including the award-winning Agent Victoria Heslin Series. Jenifer spends her days writing with the goal of keeping her readers eagerly turning the pages and putting the clues together. She adores peace and quiet, animals, and exercise, especially hiking. If she’s not writing, she’s probably out exploring trails with her dogs. Sign up for her Reader's Newsletter at Jenruff.com and never miss a new release.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 146 reviews
August 15, 2022
This is my first time reading book by this Author, Jenifer Ruff.
All I can say is I really enjoyed the book! It had me hooked after few pages. I can't help but I feel like I also part of the investigation. that's alone everyone should know how good this book can pull me in.
The story itself isn't something too new if I have to say but it has a very good storytelling. All the characters has a good proportion of their backstory, very fast paced but you don't really find something has missing in, very relevant information.
The tense, thrill, suspense all into one story. this is totally page turner that make you engaged in one sit. As this is a book series and despite this is my first book, I definitely will read her other series as I could say this is a worthy series you can continue!
You are not only presented with a story but also a lesson that you can learn, wherever you are stay alert because the act of crime doesn't see who you are.
Thank you for NetGalley and Publisher for providing ARC in exchange for honest review.
All I can say is I really enjoyed the book! It had me hooked after few pages. I can't help but I feel like I also part of the investigation. that's alone everyone should know how good this book can pull me in.
The story itself isn't something too new if I have to say but it has a very good storytelling. All the characters has a good proportion of their backstory, very fast paced but you don't really find something has missing in, very relevant information.
The tense, thrill, suspense all into one story. this is totally page turner that make you engaged in one sit. As this is a book series and despite this is my first book, I definitely will read her other series as I could say this is a worthy series you can continue!
You are not only presented with a story but also a lesson that you can learn, wherever you are stay alert because the act of crime doesn't see who you are.
Thank you for NetGalley and Publisher for providing ARC in exchange for honest review.
April 5, 2023
This was a fun quick read. I didn't realise it was part of a series when I requested it so starting with book six may appear a bit odd, however each book is a standalone thriller. There was a few explanations of things that had happened previously without making you feel lost or confused. It was an interesting read, my only niggle is the ending was wrapped up just a bit too neatly to be classed as a "thriller", but it wouldn't stop me from reading more from this author.
I received a free review copy from the publisher in exchange for my honest unedited feedback.
Thank you to Netgalley, BooksGoSocial and the author.
I received a free review copy from the publisher in exchange for my honest unedited feedback.
Thank you to Netgalley, BooksGoSocial and the author.
January 30, 2025
Every book gets better and better and each book has been pretty awesome
August 27, 2022
Thank you to Jenifer Ruff, BooksGoSocial, and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of a digital advanced reviewer copy in exchange for an honest review!
Fast paced. Cartel.
This book begins by following three sorority sisters from University of Virginia who are vacationing in Mexico. The three girls have to produce a negative COVID test to return to the U.S., but Avery Jennings' test comes back positive. She is relocated to the quarantine suites, where she mysteriously disappears. FBI Agent Victoria Heslin and Dante Rivera and invited by the Mexican Federales to aid in finding Avery. Will Victoria be able to save Avery or are the secrets surrounding her disappearance too deep?
This is the first of the FBI Agent Victoria Heslin series I have read. I do appreciate that they are stand alone novels and I did not feel like I was missing any backstory with jumping straight into this one. I was hooked by the premise of this book. This is a super quick read and was able to knock it out in two sittings. As I was reading though, nothing stuck out to me as "stellar" that made me want to give it a higher rating. I don't think I am a fan of COVID-based thrillers and thought plot was mediocre at best. I was intrigued enough to keep reading, but I don't see myself picking up another book within the Victoria Heslin series any time soon. I wish the author would have taken a different route on the ending. I did not think it fit within the novel and will definitely catch the reader off-guard, but for me, it wasn't in a good way.
Fast paced. Cartel.
This book begins by following three sorority sisters from University of Virginia who are vacationing in Mexico. The three girls have to produce a negative COVID test to return to the U.S., but Avery Jennings' test comes back positive. She is relocated to the quarantine suites, where she mysteriously disappears. FBI Agent Victoria Heslin and Dante Rivera and invited by the Mexican Federales to aid in finding Avery. Will Victoria be able to save Avery or are the secrets surrounding her disappearance too deep?
This is the first of the FBI Agent Victoria Heslin series I have read. I do appreciate that they are stand alone novels and I did not feel like I was missing any backstory with jumping straight into this one. I was hooked by the premise of this book. This is a super quick read and was able to knock it out in two sittings. As I was reading though, nothing stuck out to me as "stellar" that made me want to give it a higher rating. I don't think I am a fan of COVID-based thrillers and thought plot was mediocre at best. I was intrigued enough to keep reading, but I don't see myself picking up another book within the Victoria Heslin series any time soon. I wish the author would have taken a different route on the ending. I did not think it fit within the novel and will definitely catch the reader off-guard, but for me, it wasn't in a good way.
October 11, 2022
On Avery’s last day of her Mexican vacation with her sorority sisters it’s suddenly “OMG! Positive test! 😭😭😭😭😭😭” The positive COVID test requires her to stay behind and quarantine…and promptly disappear.
FBI agent Victoria Heslin, in her 6th book (but which functions as a standalone), gets involved early since Avery is the niece of the FBI’s Financial Crimes Department head. She and another agent, Dante Rivera, go to Mexico with Avery’s parents to meet with the Mexican police and the resort manager. It seems like everyone, including the sorority sisters, are holding back on details. The Mexican police admit that thousands of women go missing every year (although not usually Americans at luxury resorts) and one body with tied hands was just found offshore. Is that going to be Avery’s fate?
I just love these types of crime procedurals. There’s a steady revelation of clues, you are certain that the lead character (Victoria) isn’t an unreliable narrator, and as the mystery reveals itself slowly, there’s a satisfaction when you can finally see the big picture. Victoria Heslin is a well-developed character, worthy of a continuing series. I haven’t read any of the previous novels (I will definitely read them now), so this works great as standalone, although there are references to previous cases. Her relationship with Ned the vet is obviously evolving and I’d love to see what’s next for the two of them. 4 stars!
Thank you to BooksGoSocial and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review!
Literary Pet Peeve Checklist:
Green Eyes (only 2% of the real world, yet it seems like 90% of all fictional females): NO Blue, brown, hazel and even bloodshot and black, but no green eyes.
Horticultural Faux Pas (plants out of season or growing zones, like daffodils in autumn or bougainvillea in Alaska): MAYBE Upon arrival at the resort, Victoria breathes in a sweet fragrance she thought was tropical hibiscus — nope. Most hibiscus generally have no scent. (NOTE: I reviewed this an advanced review copy and the delightful author saw this criticism and changed the final copy to plumeria — a beautiful and very fragrant flower).
FBI agent Victoria Heslin, in her 6th book (but which functions as a standalone), gets involved early since Avery is the niece of the FBI’s Financial Crimes Department head. She and another agent, Dante Rivera, go to Mexico with Avery’s parents to meet with the Mexican police and the resort manager. It seems like everyone, including the sorority sisters, are holding back on details. The Mexican police admit that thousands of women go missing every year (although not usually Americans at luxury resorts) and one body with tied hands was just found offshore. Is that going to be Avery’s fate?
I just love these types of crime procedurals. There’s a steady revelation of clues, you are certain that the lead character (Victoria) isn’t an unreliable narrator, and as the mystery reveals itself slowly, there’s a satisfaction when you can finally see the big picture. Victoria Heslin is a well-developed character, worthy of a continuing series. I haven’t read any of the previous novels (I will definitely read them now), so this works great as standalone, although there are references to previous cases. Her relationship with Ned the vet is obviously evolving and I’d love to see what’s next for the two of them. 4 stars!
Thank you to BooksGoSocial and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review!
Literary Pet Peeve Checklist:
Green Eyes (only 2% of the real world, yet it seems like 90% of all fictional females): NO Blue, brown, hazel and even bloodshot and black, but no green eyes.
Horticultural Faux Pas (plants out of season or growing zones, like daffodils in autumn or bougainvillea in Alaska): MAYBE Upon arrival at the resort, Victoria breathes in a sweet fragrance she thought was tropical hibiscus — nope. Most hibiscus generally have no scent. (NOTE: I reviewed this an advanced review copy and the delightful author saw this criticism and changed the final copy to plumeria — a beautiful and very fragrant flower).
August 1, 2022
So glad I was able to read the arc of this book from NetGalley. I don’t know how I never heard anything about this Author before but after reading this book I definitely will be going to check out the other books in the series.
It was a fast paced mystery. It pulled me in right away and I can’t put it down until I finished it.
Avery a college senior goes missing on a vacation in a foreign country. Two FBI agents are sent to assist the local police with the investigation.
It was a fast paced mystery. It pulled me in right away and I can’t put it down until I finished it.
Avery a college senior goes missing on a vacation in a foreign country. Two FBI agents are sent to assist the local police with the investigation.
September 11, 2022
When a college student goes missing while on vacation at a fancy resort in Mexico, FBI Agent Victoria Heslin takes on the case, dredging up her own sad history in the process. As she unveils more secrets and the local police start shutting her out, she takes matters into her own hands.
VANISHED ON VACATION by Jenifer Ruff is the 6th book in the Agent Victoria Heslin series, and can be read as a standalone.
The premise and the cover of this book immediately drew me in, but, unfortunately, I found a lot of this book laughable and eye roll worthy.
The use of COVID in this book felt both messy and as a simple excuse to move the plot forward without adding anything to the overall plot. I understand that the last few years have and will continue to play a role in how authors choose to write their novels, but in this case, it felt like an unnecessary plot point.
The plot of this book was also extremely predictable and I spent a lot of time waiting for the agents to catch up and piece together what was happening. I was hoping for some wild twist that would prove me wrong, but that never came.
Lastly, the dialogue was EXTREMELY cringey at points (especially when describing women):
“Two FBI agents stood behind the prosecutor chick, who was already seated. She was in her forties. Decent face and a big and round behind. She always wore pants suits, so maybe her legs were thick as tree trunks.”
I’m sorry to say that this book was just not it.
It was a quick read, and had enough intrigue to keep me going until the end, but that’s about all it had going for it.
Thank you to NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Publication Date: October 07, 2022
VANISHED ON VACATION by Jenifer Ruff is the 6th book in the Agent Victoria Heslin series, and can be read as a standalone.
The premise and the cover of this book immediately drew me in, but, unfortunately, I found a lot of this book laughable and eye roll worthy.
The use of COVID in this book felt both messy and as a simple excuse to move the plot forward without adding anything to the overall plot. I understand that the last few years have and will continue to play a role in how authors choose to write their novels, but in this case, it felt like an unnecessary plot point.
The plot of this book was also extremely predictable and I spent a lot of time waiting for the agents to catch up and piece together what was happening. I was hoping for some wild twist that would prove me wrong, but that never came.
Lastly, the dialogue was EXTREMELY cringey at points (especially when describing women):
“Two FBI agents stood behind the prosecutor chick, who was already seated. She was in her forties. Decent face and a big and round behind. She always wore pants suits, so maybe her legs were thick as tree trunks.”
I’m sorry to say that this book was just not it.
It was a quick read, and had enough intrigue to keep me going until the end, but that’s about all it had going for it.
Thank you to NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Publication Date: October 07, 2022
December 3, 2022
I really think we should give ourselves a few more years without making covid a plot point. lol The way it's introduced was weird and sloppy. Even though the story was quite predictable and eye rolling, the intrigue was the strongest and fast paced once the first 100 were passed so I can't be mad about it. It wasn't terrible or great, but it was a quick read to pass the time and easily accessible. It definitely would've benefitted if there were more in-depth details into the Cartel and Payton's involvement with the case. The information we were given seemed surface level. I really would've liked to know more about Rivera. I wasn't aware this was part of a long-running series at this point when I began reading, but that's on me.
Thanks to NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for providing a copy for a honest review.
Thanks to NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for providing a copy for a honest review.
December 6, 2024
A thriller set in a Cancun resort was just what I needed to get me in the mood for my trip. I started reading it the day before my flight and finished it on the plane.
FBI agent Victoria Heslin is missing fingers from a previous book in the series, but I didn’t read that one. This book picks you right up if you want to jump into the middle of the series, like I did. The missing fingers are a nice touch, letting you know what a badass Victoria is. She’s been through a lot, but she keeps living life to the fullest and refuses to let fear hold her back. She shows what she’s made of in this book, too.
The story is also set during the pandemic. I was in Cozumel, a ferry ride from Cancun, around the time this book was researched, and the hotels had the same safety measures in place. Btw, it was the best time to come, all the best of the Maya Riviera, but without the crowd.
I’ll be reading more books by Jenneifer Ruff, including others in this series.
FBI agent Victoria Heslin is missing fingers from a previous book in the series, but I didn’t read that one. This book picks you right up if you want to jump into the middle of the series, like I did. The missing fingers are a nice touch, letting you know what a badass Victoria is. She’s been through a lot, but she keeps living life to the fullest and refuses to let fear hold her back. She shows what she’s made of in this book, too.
The story is also set during the pandemic. I was in Cozumel, a ferry ride from Cancun, around the time this book was researched, and the hotels had the same safety measures in place. Btw, it was the best time to come, all the best of the Maya Riviera, but without the crowd.
I’ll be reading more books by Jenneifer Ruff, including others in this series.
August 1, 2022
My Review
I received an ARC of this book from NetGally. This book comes out 07 Oct 2022.
This was a fun, engaging read and for a book of 123 pages, it was a very quick read. For such a short book, it packed a punch. All the characters were fully fleshed out. The scenery was very vivid. All the emotions were there-the panic that a child is missing and the grief that you may not see them again.
FBI Special Agent Victoria Heslin is my kind of woman. Called in to help find Avery Jennings, Victoria is tough, kind, strong and willing to do whatever it takes to bring Avery home alive if possible to her heart-sick parents.
It hooked me from the first page to the last. I was rooting for Victoria to find Avery. Throughout the story, I experienced it all. Happiness, sadness, shock. The feels were all there.
Will I read more from Jenifer Ruff? Definitely. Do I want to read more about Victoria Heslin? Most Certainly. Time well spent, in my opinion.
I received an ARC of this book from NetGally. This book comes out 07 Oct 2022.
This was a fun, engaging read and for a book of 123 pages, it was a very quick read. For such a short book, it packed a punch. All the characters were fully fleshed out. The scenery was very vivid. All the emotions were there-the panic that a child is missing and the grief that you may not see them again.
FBI Special Agent Victoria Heslin is my kind of woman. Called in to help find Avery Jennings, Victoria is tough, kind, strong and willing to do whatever it takes to bring Avery home alive if possible to her heart-sick parents.
It hooked me from the first page to the last. I was rooting for Victoria to find Avery. Throughout the story, I experienced it all. Happiness, sadness, shock. The feels were all there.
Will I read more from Jenifer Ruff? Definitely. Do I want to read more about Victoria Heslin? Most Certainly. Time well spent, in my opinion.
July 15, 2023
Omgg 😂 100% this author has been to a Zumba class before. Yes, Zumba people have their own spots and can get quite possessive of them 😂😂 (been an instructor going on 12 years now 😛)
This was a quick easy mystery read. I would categorize it more mystery than thriller and sprinkled in with the humour of a cozy at that.
Even though this is part of a series I have never read before, it was easy to follow and I never felt like I was missing out on anything by not reading previous books. I am intrigued about the loss of her fingers though. (Bonus points for the descriptive visual of them yikes lol)
4 stars - would recommend ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was a quick easy mystery read. I would categorize it more mystery than thriller and sprinkled in with the humour of a cozy at that.
Even though this is part of a series I have never read before, it was easy to follow and I never felt like I was missing out on anything by not reading previous books. I am intrigued about the loss of her fingers though. (Bonus points for the descriptive visual of them yikes lol)
4 stars - would recommend ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
November 4, 2022
This is the 6th book in the Victoria Heslin FBI series. It can easily be read as a standalone( it was my 1st one, but now I need to read the others!) 3 college girls d?on a tropic island celebrate one of the girls birthday. One of them disappears...such a great book,lots of surprises, you won't guess who,what or why...Can't wait to go back and read the rest of the series!
March 6, 2024
4 stars
I really enjoyed this one! Did it get a little crazy towards the end? Sure.
When college student, Avery, goes missing in Mexico, everyone goes searching for her. It doesn’t hurt that her Aunt works for the FBI, so while it may take longer for the U.S. to get involved with most foreign missing people cases, they go to work right away to find Avery.
This is a fun thriller beach read
I really enjoyed this one! Did it get a little crazy towards the end? Sure.
When college student, Avery, goes missing in Mexico, everyone goes searching for her. It doesn’t hurt that her Aunt works for the FBI, so while it may take longer for the U.S. to get involved with most foreign missing people cases, they go to work right away to find Avery.
This is a fun thriller beach read
May 30, 2023
3.5 rounded up!
Grabbed this one when it was on Kindle deal recently without realizing it was part of a series. Luckily it can easily be read standalone and it was a nice quick read! Sometimes the POV changes seemed random but overall it was a good read!
Grabbed this one when it was on Kindle deal recently without realizing it was part of a series. Luckily it can easily be read standalone and it was a nice quick read! Sometimes the POV changes seemed random but overall it was a good read!
September 17, 2025
2025 Reading Challenge September #2 Events: titles featuring a time-specific activity, for example: vacation, party, birthday, wedding, retreat, prom
Great summer read.....FBI Agent Victoria Heslin heads to Mexico to help locate a missing college student.
Great summer read.....FBI Agent Victoria Heslin heads to Mexico to help locate a missing college student.
February 5, 2024
fast paced reading , felt like first half of book more believable than ending
August 21, 2022
Vanished on Vacation was the first book I have read by Jenifer Ruff. I thoroughly enjoyed this read! It was entertaining and I enjoyed the easy writing style. I was definitely looking for opportunities to pick it up and keep reading.
While there were clearly references to previous books in the series, it was just fine as a stand alone book. I will read more books by this author!
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
While there were clearly references to previous books in the series, it was just fine as a stand alone book. I will read more books by this author!
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 30, 2022
Book: Vanished on Vacation
Author: Jenifer Ruff
Series: Agent Victoria Heslin Thriller #6
Publisher: BooksGoSocial
Genre: Mystery/Thriller
Pub Date: October 7, 2022
My Rating: 4 stars
On the last day of her vacation at the Azure Cove Resort in Mexico, Avery Jennings, a college senior from University of Virginia, tests positive for Covid and must quarantine.
That’s the last anyone hears from her.
FBI Agents Victoria Heslin and Dante Rivera are invited to assist with UVa college student Avery Jennings who disappeared while quarantining of Covid while staying at the Azure Cove Resort, Mexico. During the investigation Victoria discovers that Avery’s family and friends as well as resort’s staff and guests are hiding secrets.
When another guest vanished Victoria defies orders and takes matters into her own hands.
Determined to bring the missing home, Victoria just might die trying to find them.
This is my first Jenifer Ruff Victoria Heslin story ~ I am so delighted to find a new author that I love ~ I certainly am looking forward to The Atonement Murders Victoria Heslin Thriller #7!
Want to thank NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for this early eGalley.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for October 7, 2022
Author: Jenifer Ruff
Series: Agent Victoria Heslin Thriller #6
Publisher: BooksGoSocial
Genre: Mystery/Thriller
Pub Date: October 7, 2022
My Rating: 4 stars
On the last day of her vacation at the Azure Cove Resort in Mexico, Avery Jennings, a college senior from University of Virginia, tests positive for Covid and must quarantine.
That’s the last anyone hears from her.
FBI Agents Victoria Heslin and Dante Rivera are invited to assist with UVa college student Avery Jennings who disappeared while quarantining of Covid while staying at the Azure Cove Resort, Mexico. During the investigation Victoria discovers that Avery’s family and friends as well as resort’s staff and guests are hiding secrets.
When another guest vanished Victoria defies orders and takes matters into her own hands.
Determined to bring the missing home, Victoria just might die trying to find them.
This is my first Jenifer Ruff Victoria Heslin story ~ I am so delighted to find a new author that I love ~ I certainly am looking forward to The Atonement Murders Victoria Heslin Thriller #7!
Want to thank NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for this early eGalley.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for October 7, 2022
December 2, 2022
Another hit story from Jenifer Ruff. I am completely hooked on this series. I love the characters and the author’s writing style. I can’t wait for book 7. This was another entertaining and fast paced story. I definitely recommend this series.
March 6, 2023
I randomly read this book and I’m so glad I did. I have already read two books in this series and I am going to read them all. I recommend reading them in order but this could be a great 1-off if you are looking for a fun beach read. Beach read because of the setting not taking away from the books place in the thriller genre.
The writing is fast paced and exciting—as if you are reading an episode of Law and Order? Wild. I also think it’s fun to have COVID as part of the plot, I feel weird that life has silently “gone back to normal” and it’s nice to have the pandemic acknowledged. I haven’t yet read a fictional book that has taken place during the pandemic and I really liked it.
The writing is fast paced and exciting—as if you are reading an episode of Law and Order? Wild. I also think it’s fun to have COVID as part of the plot, I feel weird that life has silently “gone back to normal” and it’s nice to have the pandemic acknowledged. I haven’t yet read a fictional book that has taken place during the pandemic and I really liked it.
October 7, 2022
Vanished on Vacation by Jenifer Ruff is her newest release. It’s a good one and you may want to clear some time on your schedule to read this one. It is a “Must Read”. This is book six of the Agent Victoria Heslin Series. I have read all of them except the first two books which I own. I just have to carve out some time in my schedule to read them!
This book is filled with interesting characters. Of course you have the main character Vicoria Heslin and her boyfriend Ned. Now, Ned is quite a guy. He doesn’t mind Victoria leaving on a moments notice, he doesn’t get upset when her life is in danger and he stays at her house when she is away to take care for her animals. His is also a Veterinarian so…what more could you ask for? Her partner is Rivera and he is the same solid guy. This one takes place at a resort in Mexico so, you know there are going to be some quirky guests.
The twists in this book will keep you on your feet. There are a few of them I didn’t see coming at all. We pretty much know who the criminals are but, they somehow think they are going to walk away from their crimes without paying a price. We shall see about that! Everyone in this book seems to have a secret they are hiding. I mean every. single. character. That might be hard to believe but, think about it. Don’t we all have some secrets we aren’t telling? I know I might have one or two.
This was one of the best books I’ve read by Jenifer. All of her books have been enjoyable. I’m not sure if it was the crime, the setting or what really held my attention but, I’m guessing it was a combination of all of those things. Her writing is smooth and easy to follow. I never get lost in an investigation. That really helps. I hate going back to figure out what I missed ore didn’t understand. That never happens in a book by Jenifer Ruff.
If you like mystery and suspense then this is a book for you. Go ahead and buy it now and add it to your list. You know you’ll want to read it soon. I highly recommend this series and this book. They are all written as stand alone so you won’t feel like you are missing anything if you jump into this series now. Until next time…Happy Reading!
Don’t forget to support the authors you read by leaving a review.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This book is filled with interesting characters. Of course you have the main character Vicoria Heslin and her boyfriend Ned. Now, Ned is quite a guy. He doesn’t mind Victoria leaving on a moments notice, he doesn’t get upset when her life is in danger and he stays at her house when she is away to take care for her animals. His is also a Veterinarian so…what more could you ask for? Her partner is Rivera and he is the same solid guy. This one takes place at a resort in Mexico so, you know there are going to be some quirky guests.
The twists in this book will keep you on your feet. There are a few of them I didn’t see coming at all. We pretty much know who the criminals are but, they somehow think they are going to walk away from their crimes without paying a price. We shall see about that! Everyone in this book seems to have a secret they are hiding. I mean every. single. character. That might be hard to believe but, think about it. Don’t we all have some secrets we aren’t telling? I know I might have one or two.
This was one of the best books I’ve read by Jenifer. All of her books have been enjoyable. I’m not sure if it was the crime, the setting or what really held my attention but, I’m guessing it was a combination of all of those things. Her writing is smooth and easy to follow. I never get lost in an investigation. That really helps. I hate going back to figure out what I missed ore didn’t understand. That never happens in a book by Jenifer Ruff.
If you like mystery and suspense then this is a book for you. Go ahead and buy it now and add it to your list. You know you’ll want to read it soon. I highly recommend this series and this book. They are all written as stand alone so you won’t feel like you are missing anything if you jump into this series now. Until next time…Happy Reading!
Don’t forget to support the authors you read by leaving a review.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
November 6, 2023
Going into this book I was super hopeful for a nice thrilling mystery on the possible abduction of this character. However, even though it was a quick and easy read because the chapters were pretty short and flew by, I just felt as though that thrilling story never fully came.
I think a large part of it was the inclusion of Covid into the story because honestly I didn’t see why it was necessary to the story. She could’ve disappeared without that being a part of it/another plot line, and I think Covid is still so fresh that reading about it just wasn’t super enjoyable, especially because it was brought up so often.
Also, when I first downloaded this book on KU, I didn’t know it was a part of a series (even though the books are standalones) I feel like I could’ve potentially enjoyed the book a bit more, had I felt more connected to the Detective because I read the books prior to this one, but that is on me.
It was a nice read because it went so quick, but I also didn’t feel as “on the edge of my seat” as I had hoped. And I felt as though I predicted a lot of it, which isn’t abnormal for me why mystery/thrillers, however I didn’t feel chills with the reveal like I did with other books I also guessed. The timeline was also a little confusing at times, but for the most part I was able to follow along with the timeline.
Overall, if you’re looking for a quick read, this was that, and this book didn’t put me off of reading future books by this author, so that also says a lot. I definitely say give it a chance because I feel like mysteries are really one of those genres where a bunch of people could hate the book, and it’s your favorite story.
So definitely give it a read, but maybe read the first few books first, so you feel a little more connected to the main character.
I think a large part of it was the inclusion of Covid into the story because honestly I didn’t see why it was necessary to the story. She could’ve disappeared without that being a part of it/another plot line, and I think Covid is still so fresh that reading about it just wasn’t super enjoyable, especially because it was brought up so often.
Also, when I first downloaded this book on KU, I didn’t know it was a part of a series (even though the books are standalones) I feel like I could’ve potentially enjoyed the book a bit more, had I felt more connected to the Detective because I read the books prior to this one, but that is on me.
It was a nice read because it went so quick, but I also didn’t feel as “on the edge of my seat” as I had hoped. And I felt as though I predicted a lot of it, which isn’t abnormal for me why mystery/thrillers, however I didn’t feel chills with the reveal like I did with other books I also guessed. The timeline was also a little confusing at times, but for the most part I was able to follow along with the timeline.
Overall, if you’re looking for a quick read, this was that, and this book didn’t put me off of reading future books by this author, so that also says a lot. I definitely say give it a chance because I feel like mysteries are really one of those genres where a bunch of people could hate the book, and it’s your favorite story.
So definitely give it a read, but maybe read the first few books first, so you feel a little more connected to the main character.
November 14, 2022
Vanished on Vacation by Jennifer Ruff
This is a Victoria Heslin #6 in the series. Three sorority sister friends decide to take a vacation to Mexico during the covid pandemic. To leave from Mexico the three girls need to test negative to go back home. The day before they leave Avery is told by "staff" that she tested positive and needs to go to the quarantine rooms. Avery then ends up coming up missing and she is the second girl in the last couple months that has disappeared from the hotel.
Victoria Heslin is an FBI agent and is assigned to go find the FBI director's neice along with Dante Rivera. Avery parents are there as well meeting with local police to figure out what happened to their daughter.
This was a well told story I was pulled in right away and it kept me flipping the pages until the end. I liked the character of Victoria she is a bad ass FBI agent and I like how to works diligently to get to the bottom of the case.
To be honest this is the first book I have read in this series and I can't wait to read the other books and future books from this series. Jenifer Ruff knows how to pull her readers in and make them feel like they are helping solve the case. This is a five star read for me. I recommend this book it can be read as a standalone. The mystery plays out and you follow along with how the case was solved. Will Avery be found dead? Who would want to take Avery? Why? You should not be disappointed in picking this up to figure out why?
Thank you to NetGalley and Books Go Social for a free copy of Vanished on Vacation for an honest review. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
This is a Victoria Heslin #6 in the series. Three sorority sister friends decide to take a vacation to Mexico during the covid pandemic. To leave from Mexico the three girls need to test negative to go back home. The day before they leave Avery is told by "staff" that she tested positive and needs to go to the quarantine rooms. Avery then ends up coming up missing and she is the second girl in the last couple months that has disappeared from the hotel.
Victoria Heslin is an FBI agent and is assigned to go find the FBI director's neice along with Dante Rivera. Avery parents are there as well meeting with local police to figure out what happened to their daughter.
This was a well told story I was pulled in right away and it kept me flipping the pages until the end. I liked the character of Victoria she is a bad ass FBI agent and I like how to works diligently to get to the bottom of the case.
To be honest this is the first book I have read in this series and I can't wait to read the other books and future books from this series. Jenifer Ruff knows how to pull her readers in and make them feel like they are helping solve the case. This is a five star read for me. I recommend this book it can be read as a standalone. The mystery plays out and you follow along with how the case was solved. Will Avery be found dead? Who would want to take Avery? Why? You should not be disappointed in picking this up to figure out why?
Thank you to NetGalley and Books Go Social for a free copy of Vanished on Vacation for an honest review. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
August 30, 2022
As soon as I saw the title of this book, I knew I had to read it! I love thrillers with a vacation setting, and "Vanished on Vacation" certainly lived up to my expectations!
Avery and her two friends go on vacation to an exclusive resort in Mexico; however, on the last day of their trip, a resort employee notifies Avery that she received a positive Covid test and will have to quarantine at the resort. The employee escorts Avery to her room to grab her stuff, and that is the last anyone hears from Avery. Her friends try calling and texting repeatedly, as do her family members, to no avail. Fortunately, Avery's aunt is an FBI agent, and she brings in her friend, seasoned FBI agent Victoria Heslin, to help find Avery.
Apparently this is book 6 in a series of standalone thrillers centered on Victoria Heslin, and after reading "Vanished on Vacation", I definitely want to go back and read all the rest! I found Victoria to be a well-written character, and I enjoyed all the twists and suspense throughout the book. I did feel as though there were a few points throughout the book that were a bit slow, and I lost some interest; however, the pace really picked up in the last 40 percent or so.
I would highly recommend this to anyone who has enjoyed other books by this author, or who enjoys vacation thrillers! You'll be glad to be safe at home (unless you are reading this while on vacation...in which case the jury is out!).
TWs: murder, dismemberment/torture, drug and alcohol use
Thanks to the author, BooksGoSocial, and NetGalley for this arc!!
Avery and her two friends go on vacation to an exclusive resort in Mexico; however, on the last day of their trip, a resort employee notifies Avery that she received a positive Covid test and will have to quarantine at the resort. The employee escorts Avery to her room to grab her stuff, and that is the last anyone hears from Avery. Her friends try calling and texting repeatedly, as do her family members, to no avail. Fortunately, Avery's aunt is an FBI agent, and she brings in her friend, seasoned FBI agent Victoria Heslin, to help find Avery.
Apparently this is book 6 in a series of standalone thrillers centered on Victoria Heslin, and after reading "Vanished on Vacation", I definitely want to go back and read all the rest! I found Victoria to be a well-written character, and I enjoyed all the twists and suspense throughout the book. I did feel as though there were a few points throughout the book that were a bit slow, and I lost some interest; however, the pace really picked up in the last 40 percent or so.
I would highly recommend this to anyone who has enjoyed other books by this author, or who enjoys vacation thrillers! You'll be glad to be safe at home (unless you are reading this while on vacation...in which case the jury is out!).
TWs: murder, dismemberment/torture, drug and alcohol use
Thanks to the author, BooksGoSocial, and NetGalley for this arc!!
September 21, 2022
I was not sure what to expect began to turn the pages.
It has been awhile since I have read a Thriller and I was not sure how wide open bedroom doors might be.
Actually there were no Romantic scenes at all.
But there are several murders of young women and some gripping details in the form of mutilation.
The story is fast paced.
I enjoyed Victoria as a main character. The author did a great job of getting this reader upto speed with Victoria's recent past as well as her younger life and how/why she became an FBI agent. There is alot of back story with Victoria and her current boyfriend. And agent Rivera who have a past together.
There were lots of characters weaving in and out of the story.
From Avery (the missing girl), her friends, her parents, an FBI agent aunt, the hotel guests and staff. The Mexican Police other FBI agents and a whole slew of bad guys.
As I write I wonder how I kept them all straight. But I did.
To me that is a sign of a very good well written story. I applaud author Jennifer Ruff.
I was surprised at the twist at the end after all the investigation is over and all the secrets came out leaving me wondering how Victoria's relationship with Rivera will develop in future installments.
I enjoyed this book so much that I will add the earlier books in the series to my Wish List.
The only negative I have is there is one character that I wish would have been able to escape the bad guys and become a regular in the series.
I received an ARC copy of Vanished On Vacation from Net Galley.
It has been awhile since I have read a Thriller and I was not sure how wide open bedroom doors might be.
Actually there were no Romantic scenes at all.
But there are several murders of young women and some gripping details in the form of mutilation.
The story is fast paced.
I enjoyed Victoria as a main character. The author did a great job of getting this reader upto speed with Victoria's recent past as well as her younger life and how/why she became an FBI agent. There is alot of back story with Victoria and her current boyfriend. And agent Rivera who have a past together.
There were lots of characters weaving in and out of the story.
From Avery (the missing girl), her friends, her parents, an FBI agent aunt, the hotel guests and staff. The Mexican Police other FBI agents and a whole slew of bad guys.
As I write I wonder how I kept them all straight. But I did.
To me that is a sign of a very good well written story. I applaud author Jennifer Ruff.
I was surprised at the twist at the end after all the investigation is over and all the secrets came out leaving me wondering how Victoria's relationship with Rivera will develop in future installments.
I enjoyed this book so much that I will add the earlier books in the series to my Wish List.
The only negative I have is there is one character that I wish would have been able to escape the bad guys and become a regular in the series.
I received an ARC copy of Vanished On Vacation from Net Galley.
September 3, 2022
Jenifer Ruff's latest edition to the Victoria Heslin series offers plenty of suspense, mystery, and danger as Agent Heslin heads to Mexico with fellow agent Rivera to find a missing college student who also happens to be a relative of a colleague. On the last day of 3 sorority sisters' spring vacation one is taken away because her COVID test comes up positive, but she completely disappears. In that the hotel is in Mexico, the FBI is allowed to be in on the search for the American citizen but have to play nice of course with the local police. Top that off with concerned parents who are also there looking and worrying about their missing child. Clues and ideas of what could have happened along with learning, as the reader, where the girl is, you root for Victoria to put all those clues together to get that girl to safety while dealing with suddenly not so cooperative police, parents, hotel employees and more. I like how Ruff brought in COVID to the story as you just can't ignore such a major event across the world when writing a story in present day. Though stand alones, each book in Ruff's series builds on those qualities Victoria has in putting information together to sovle the mystery particularly when an abduction occurs, something she is all too familiar with Victoria puts herself in danger over and over again as solving the mystery is her ultimate goal yet often asks herself why did I do that. Enjoy a good read! Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC read.
August 5, 2022
Three sorority sisters enjoy an exclusive resort vacation in Mexico until one of them doesn’t come home.
As a frantic search for missing college student Avery Jennings begins, it appears everyone is hiding something Avery’s family and friends, the resort’s staff, and its wealthy guests. It’s up to FBI Special Agent Victoria Heslin to dig deeper and figure out which of those secrets matter. Motivated by her own mother’s abduction years ago, she’s determined not to let Avery become another missing person statistic.
When Victoria grows frustrated with the investigation and her limited jurisdiction in Mexico, she defies orders and takes matters into her own hands. Facing powerful and connected criminals, she plummets into a hellish ordeal that will test her strength and courage like never before.
“How much will you risk to find this girl?” the Federale Officer asked.
“Whatever it takes,” Victoria answered without hesitation.
VANISHED ON VACATION is the sixth book in a series of standalone mystery thrillers featuring FBI Agent Victoria Heslin
Really enjoyed this book read in one sitting totally recommend
Thank You NetGalley and BooksGoSocial
I just reviewed Vanished On Vacation by Jenifer Ruff. #VanishedOnVacation #NetGalley
Really enjoyed this book read in one sitting totally recommend
Thank You NetGalley and BooksGoSocial
I just reviewed Vanished On Vacation by Jenifer Ruff. #VanishedOnVacation #NetGalley
November 25, 2024
Vanished on Vacation by Jenifer Ruff is the sixth book in the Victoria Heslin series, but it can easily be read as a standalone. I haven’t read the previous books, and I had no trouble following the story or connecting with the characters. In fact, I’m now looking forward to diving into the earlier books in the series!
When college student Avery Jennings goes missing during a luxurious vacation in Mexico, FBI Special Agent Victoria Heslin dives headfirst into the search. The stakes are high, the suspects are plenty, and the twists keep coming as Victoria battles uncooperative authorities and uncovers hidden truths.
Victoria is such a compelling character—her personal connection to missing persons cases adds a layer of emotion that makes you root for her even harder. The Mexican resort setting is vividly described, creating an atmosphere of both beauty and danger. While some of the twists felt a bit predictable, the tension throughout kept me hooked, and the ending was satisfying and realistic.
If you enjoy mysteries with strong female leads and high-stakes investigations, this one’s for you.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an ARC in exchange for my honest review!
When college student Avery Jennings goes missing during a luxurious vacation in Mexico, FBI Special Agent Victoria Heslin dives headfirst into the search. The stakes are high, the suspects are plenty, and the twists keep coming as Victoria battles uncooperative authorities and uncovers hidden truths.
Victoria is such a compelling character—her personal connection to missing persons cases adds a layer of emotion that makes you root for her even harder. The Mexican resort setting is vividly described, creating an atmosphere of both beauty and danger. While some of the twists felt a bit predictable, the tension throughout kept me hooked, and the ending was satisfying and realistic.
If you enjoy mysteries with strong female leads and high-stakes investigations, this one’s for you.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an ARC in exchange for my honest review!
August 31, 2022
I have not been this hooked on a book in a long time. The basic premise is three girls in their senior year of college go on a trip to Cancun, Mexico. One of the girls, Avery, goes missing. Her aunt Payton happens to be in the FBI, which is how the FBI gets involved. Two agents go down to assist with the investigation and that’s the premise of the book.
What I love about this book is how it’s slowly revealed in pieces. When we first see a POV from Avery, the chapter was so brief that I barely realized that part of the storyline was being exposed. That made me scramble to get to the next sighting of Avery and each time I got a little bit more. It took a long time for that side of the story to become clear but that just made me more urgent to read.
The author did a great job building suspense for a lot of people, including the staff at the resort where Avery and her friends were staying and even Avery‘s family. In the synopsis, it says the female agent Victoria might die trying to bring Avery back, and boy they were not kidding. This was a great page-turner and a very quick read. Thank you Netgalley for the ARC!
What I love about this book is how it’s slowly revealed in pieces. When we first see a POV from Avery, the chapter was so brief that I barely realized that part of the storyline was being exposed. That made me scramble to get to the next sighting of Avery and each time I got a little bit more. It took a long time for that side of the story to become clear but that just made me more urgent to read.
The author did a great job building suspense for a lot of people, including the staff at the resort where Avery and her friends were staying and even Avery‘s family. In the synopsis, it says the female agent Victoria might die trying to bring Avery back, and boy they were not kidding. This was a great page-turner and a very quick read. Thank you Netgalley for the ARC!
September 11, 2022
Vanished on Vacation, the sixth in the Victoria Heslin series, is a riveting, heart-stopping thriller. Avery Jennings is on her last day of vacation in the lovely resort of Azure Cove with two of her friends when the impossible happens. She gets kidnapped. Being out of country, it isn’t as easy to navigate the police. Thankfully, Avery’s aunt is an FBI agent and is able to get the Mexican authorities to allow Special Agents Heslin and Rivera to observe. When Heslin and Rivera get too close, the police will shut them down completely. With their lack of cooperation, Victoria realizes that someone quite powerful is manipulating the police. Something is definitely off in the beautiful coastal resort and Victoria will not let anyone deter her. This kidnapping hit too close to home. Master storyteller Jenifer Ruff does not disappoint. This is another superbly written and richly descriptive novel with characters and settings well woven in this mystery, thriller, and suspense. The reader’s attention is guaranteed from beginning to end in this absolute page turner. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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