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Where the Missing Go
In Emma Rowley's emotionally gripping, unpredictable novel of psychological suspense, a mother who works at a charity helpline for missing teens receives a desperate call-from her own daughter...
The missing don't always want to be found.
Kate Harlow recognizes this painful truth, even as she keeps searching for her daughter, Sophie, who disappeared two years ago. The police have stopped investigating-after all, Sophie has sent postcards home, insisting that she's fine. To fill the space in her increasingly empty days, Kate volunteers at Message in a Bottle, where runaways can leave messages for loved ones, no questions asked.
Then one evening, a call comes in from a voice Kate instinctively recognizes, even through bursts of static and beyond the sudden dial tone that breaks their connection.
Those closest to Kate worry she's cracking under her grief, imagining that it was Sophie. But Kate knows-that it was her daughter on the phone. And that a stranger has been inside her house. Watching her.
Sophie is out there. And Kate has to find her, even if someone will try anything to stop her . . .
"Kept me guessing to the final twist; creepy and addictive. My perfect type of book!"
-Elizabeth Haynes, author of Into the Darkest Corner
The missing don't always want to be found.
Kate Harlow recognizes this painful truth, even as she keeps searching for her daughter, Sophie, who disappeared two years ago. The police have stopped investigating-after all, Sophie has sent postcards home, insisting that she's fine. To fill the space in her increasingly empty days, Kate volunteers at Message in a Bottle, where runaways can leave messages for loved ones, no questions asked.
Then one evening, a call comes in from a voice Kate instinctively recognizes, even through bursts of static and beyond the sudden dial tone that breaks their connection.
Those closest to Kate worry she's cracking under her grief, imagining that it was Sophie. But Kate knows-that it was her daughter on the phone. And that a stranger has been inside her house. Watching her.
Sophie is out there. And Kate has to find her, even if someone will try anything to stop her . . .
"Kept me guessing to the final twist; creepy and addictive. My perfect type of book!"
-Elizabeth Haynes, author of Into the Darkest Corner
294 pages, Paperback
First published March 8, 2018
539 people are currently reading
5752 people want to read
About the author
Emma Rowley
3 books140 followersI'm @EmmaRowleyAuthor on Facebook and @EmmaCharlotteRowley on Instagram
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 522 reviews
April 17, 2018
*4.5 Stars*
*My thanks to Orion for my paperback copy of Where The Missing Go. I have given a fair and unbiased review in exchange*
Kate's 16 year old daughter Sophie left home two years ago after leaving a note for her parents, but nothing in the note gave any clue as to why she felt compelled to leave. Her disappearance prompts Kate to man the phones at a local charity 'Message in a Bottle'. The charity encourages runaways to call them and they pass messages on to loved ones, no questions asked, no repercussions.
Since Sophie went missing, Kate's marriage has crumbled, and her husband has moved on - found himself a new love interest, so the helpline gives Kate a purpose in life - but everything changes the night she receives a call from a young girl who appears to be really scared, and it's not just any girl - it's Sophie!
Have you ever wished that you could read at twice your normal speed? Yes of course you have. Well that's how I felt reading this well constructed psychological thriller. Nothing is as first appears in Sophie's disappearance, but as we begin to gain some insight into why she made that fateful decision, it becomes clear that this is a rather more dark and disturbing theme than we were led to believe. However, there is nothing as joyous, painful and relentless as a mother's love, and Kate is determined to discover Sophie's whereabouts, even though her obsession causes those around her to worry for her sanity.
This was a deeply engaging and thought provoking psychological thriller. The tension at times becomes unbearable due to the quality of the writing, and had me turning the pages as if hypnotised by the narrative.
Should you choose to read Emma Rowley's excellent debut novel, and go 'Where The Missing Go' I promise you'll be richly rewarded!
*My thanks to Orion for my paperback copy of Where The Missing Go. I have given a fair and unbiased review in exchange*
Kate's 16 year old daughter Sophie left home two years ago after leaving a note for her parents, but nothing in the note gave any clue as to why she felt compelled to leave. Her disappearance prompts Kate to man the phones at a local charity 'Message in a Bottle'. The charity encourages runaways to call them and they pass messages on to loved ones, no questions asked, no repercussions.
Since Sophie went missing, Kate's marriage has crumbled, and her husband has moved on - found himself a new love interest, so the helpline gives Kate a purpose in life - but everything changes the night she receives a call from a young girl who appears to be really scared, and it's not just any girl - it's Sophie!
Have you ever wished that you could read at twice your normal speed? Yes of course you have. Well that's how I felt reading this well constructed psychological thriller. Nothing is as first appears in Sophie's disappearance, but as we begin to gain some insight into why she made that fateful decision, it becomes clear that this is a rather more dark and disturbing theme than we were led to believe. However, there is nothing as joyous, painful and relentless as a mother's love, and Kate is determined to discover Sophie's whereabouts, even though her obsession causes those around her to worry for her sanity.
This was a deeply engaging and thought provoking psychological thriller. The tension at times becomes unbearable due to the quality of the writing, and had me turning the pages as if hypnotised by the narrative.
Should you choose to read Emma Rowley's excellent debut novel, and go 'Where The Missing Go' I promise you'll be richly rewarded!
October 11, 2022
"I'm a bad mother. You're not supposed to say that. Everyone was very keen that I didn't blame myself. At first, anyway."
Sometimes a debut novel comes along and truly surprises you. Let's be honest; how many books have we, readers of suspense, come across in the past few years which contain a plot focused on missing children, only to realize the conclusion is roughly the same as all the others before it? That was my initial impression when coming across Where the Missing Go by Emma Rowley. I'm so glad I decided to give this one a try, though, as it blew a breath of fresh air into a genre that is growing rapidly stale.
While the beginning is a bit of a slow burn, I found the pacing to be wonderfully engaging, and I blew through the entire book in a single day due to it's short, snappy chapters and brief overall page count (I believe my copy came out to just under 300 pages?). The tension is apparent from the beginning, where we receive a suspenseful prologue and a newspaper clipping, bringing us up to date to the current time, which is two years past Sophie's disappearance.
As with most psychological thrillers, this one does have a few twists, and I found them nicely placed as well, although I won't tell you exactly where they appear as that would be cheating! ;) I will say that this is not a novel where the enjoyment hinges on one whopper of a shocker; there are multiple reveals throughout, but they are done in a classy way that adds to the narrative instead of carrying the bulk of it. Will some people be able to figure out what's going on before all is told? Sure, but I also feel there will be a good number of readers who will be surprised by every single "gotya!" moment provided. If you're looking for a breezy page turner to take on your travels this spring and summer, I highly recommend you picking up this delightful and dazzling debut.
*Many thanks to the publisher for providing my review copy.
Sometimes a debut novel comes along and truly surprises you. Let's be honest; how many books have we, readers of suspense, come across in the past few years which contain a plot focused on missing children, only to realize the conclusion is roughly the same as all the others before it? That was my initial impression when coming across Where the Missing Go by Emma Rowley. I'm so glad I decided to give this one a try, though, as it blew a breath of fresh air into a genre that is growing rapidly stale.
While the beginning is a bit of a slow burn, I found the pacing to be wonderfully engaging, and I blew through the entire book in a single day due to it's short, snappy chapters and brief overall page count (I believe my copy came out to just under 300 pages?). The tension is apparent from the beginning, where we receive a suspenseful prologue and a newspaper clipping, bringing us up to date to the current time, which is two years past Sophie's disappearance.
As with most psychological thrillers, this one does have a few twists, and I found them nicely placed as well, although I won't tell you exactly where they appear as that would be cheating! ;) I will say that this is not a novel where the enjoyment hinges on one whopper of a shocker; there are multiple reveals throughout, but they are done in a classy way that adds to the narrative instead of carrying the bulk of it. Will some people be able to figure out what's going on before all is told? Sure, but I also feel there will be a good number of readers who will be surprised by every single "gotya!" moment provided. If you're looking for a breezy page turner to take on your travels this spring and summer, I highly recommend you picking up this delightful and dazzling debut.
*Many thanks to the publisher for providing my review copy.
May 26, 2019
Kate's 16 year old daughter Sophie is missing. It's been two years since she left, leaving her parents a note asking them not to worry and that she just needed time. Aside from a few postcards sent home to let them know she was ok, no one has seen or heard from Sophie. Kate is stuck - becoming immobilized from her daughters disappearance. Her marriage has ended in divorce and she doesn't socialize with anyone except the elderly neighbor she looks in on from time to time. While it seems everyone has moved on, accepting that Sophie was a runaway, Kate can not come to terms with the loss of her daughter. Why did she leave so suddenly? Why won't she come home?
Working as a volunteer for a runaway hotline, Kate gets the call she has been waiting two years for. Sophie calls in to say she is alright and despite a poor, static filled connection Kate knows it's her. She is talking barely above a whisper and she sounds scared. Kate's determination to find Sophie becomes frenzied, yet no one else believes it was her. Despite the lack of support, Kate is determined to take matters into her hands and find out what really happened to Sophie.
This book was a bit hit and miss with me. Part 1 seemed to drag on endlessly and I had to make an effort to stay with it. While I definitely felt for Kate's plight as a mom - the first 40% of the book was just too slow and dare I say, a bit boring. I figured out what happened very early on (and proved to be correct). Despite some plausible red herrings Rowley tried to throw in, there were simply no surprises here for me as a reader.
Parts 2 and 3 definitely picked up the pace with the introduction of Sophie's point of view alongside Kate's. I tore through the remainder of the book in a few hours, appreciating the last 2/3 of the book much more than the first part. Overall, it was an interesting story, there just wasn't anything spectacular that made this mystery/thriller stand out amongst the many out there.
Many thanks to Emma Rowley, Kensington Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review an arc of this book.
Working as a volunteer for a runaway hotline, Kate gets the call she has been waiting two years for. Sophie calls in to say she is alright and despite a poor, static filled connection Kate knows it's her. She is talking barely above a whisper and she sounds scared. Kate's determination to find Sophie becomes frenzied, yet no one else believes it was her. Despite the lack of support, Kate is determined to take matters into her hands and find out what really happened to Sophie.
This book was a bit hit and miss with me. Part 1 seemed to drag on endlessly and I had to make an effort to stay with it. While I definitely felt for Kate's plight as a mom - the first 40% of the book was just too slow and dare I say, a bit boring. I figured out what happened very early on (and proved to be correct). Despite some plausible red herrings Rowley tried to throw in, there were simply no surprises here for me as a reader.
Parts 2 and 3 definitely picked up the pace with the introduction of Sophie's point of view alongside Kate's. I tore through the remainder of the book in a few hours, appreciating the last 2/3 of the book much more than the first part. Overall, it was an interesting story, there just wasn't anything spectacular that made this mystery/thriller stand out amongst the many out there.
Many thanks to Emma Rowley, Kensington Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review an arc of this book.
September 10, 2023
When Sophie Harlow, a sixteen year old teen from the village of Vale Dean, disappears, it is quickly accepted that she ran away due to the note she left behind and the postcards she sent over the ensuing months. But, two years later, Kate’s daughter is still missing and, despite everyone else moving on, she is still stuck firmly in the past. Between her marriage splitting up and Kate’s nightmares that have her dependent on a sleeping medication, she finds herself obsessing over Sophie’s case, even wading through online forums. After all, if she could just get her head around her precious daughter running away, just maybe she’ll be able to accept it and move on.
The one thing, however, that Kate regularly leaves the house for since “before” is her volunteer position at the local helpline for runaway teens, Message in a Bottle. While they might not receive many phone calls, she hopes she can be of some use to individuals like her Sophie. One night, though, that mission takes on startling new meaning when she answers only to discover that it is, in fact, a young woman she believes to be her daughter. At least, she is fairly certain it is…because the call is marred by static and missing words. But she swears it’s Sophie’s voice. And she couldn’t possibly mistake that, could she?
Unfortunately, her friends and family think she’s misunderstood. Or that her grief is getting the better of her. After the police sing the same tune as her loved ones, she decides that she’ll just have to get the answers herself. Suddenly, it appears that perhaps she’s on the right tack when she discovers troubling information and the distinct feeling someone has been inside her home. However, Kate refuses to give up. Because if Sophie needs her, she will stop at nothing to find answers. Even if someone is willing to go to extreme lengths to stop her.
Emma Rowley is one seriously talented author. Starting from the get-go of Where the Missing Go, I was actually afraid that this was going to be a slow family drama. Boy, was I wrong. Because that slow burn start transformed into an addictive, suspense building, unpredictable thriller when Kate began to investigate her daughter’s disappearance. Speaking of which, even the premise and plot were original. And now I already wish I could read it again blind (despite having just put it down).
But what really hooked me were the awe-inspiring twists as they transformed a plot that I thought I’d figured out into something simply breathtaking. Not so out of the realm of possibility that I found myself questioning it, but far enough from my guesses that I was shocked into reading each page faster as I got closer to the end. And what a conclusion it was (like it was written for the silver screen)! I can’t say too much as I don’t want to spoil this near perfect finale, but even when you think it’s over (I mean how could anything additional take place?), there’s one more shocking twist to be had.
I think, however, my favorite aspect was the character building. Kate and Sophie to be specific. Kate was the perfect embodiment of the grief that comes after the loss of a child, but it’s also mixed deftly at some points with the denial that the unanswered questions would surely leave bare. And Sophie! I might even love her more, but I can’t say much about why or you’ll definitely lose the ignorance every reader should have at the start of this book.
Done and dusted, I couldn’t be more in love with Where the Missing Go (and just wait until you learn what’s behind the title). And, despite the slow start that alternated between memories of Sophie and Kate’s depressing reality, this absolutely is my favorite read of 2023 so far. Thick with grief, desperation, and a mother’s love, it was compelling in a way I wouldn’t have expected from a thriller on top of being intense and chilling. If you haven’t read Rowley’s debut fiction novel yet, please take my advice and run out and get it now. Rating of 5+ stars.
Trigger warning: missing child (suspected runaway), dementia, prescription drug and alcohol use, gaslighting, teen pregnancy, false imprisonment, physical and emotional abuse, breaking and entering, stabbing
The one thing, however, that Kate regularly leaves the house for since “before” is her volunteer position at the local helpline for runaway teens, Message in a Bottle. While they might not receive many phone calls, she hopes she can be of some use to individuals like her Sophie. One night, though, that mission takes on startling new meaning when she answers only to discover that it is, in fact, a young woman she believes to be her daughter. At least, she is fairly certain it is…because the call is marred by static and missing words. But she swears it’s Sophie’s voice. And she couldn’t possibly mistake that, could she?
Unfortunately, her friends and family think she’s misunderstood. Or that her grief is getting the better of her. After the police sing the same tune as her loved ones, she decides that she’ll just have to get the answers herself. Suddenly, it appears that perhaps she’s on the right tack when she discovers troubling information and the distinct feeling someone has been inside her home. However, Kate refuses to give up. Because if Sophie needs her, she will stop at nothing to find answers. Even if someone is willing to go to extreme lengths to stop her.
Emma Rowley is one seriously talented author. Starting from the get-go of Where the Missing Go, I was actually afraid that this was going to be a slow family drama. Boy, was I wrong. Because that slow burn start transformed into an addictive, suspense building, unpredictable thriller when Kate began to investigate her daughter’s disappearance. Speaking of which, even the premise and plot were original. And now I already wish I could read it again blind (despite having just put it down).
But what really hooked me were the awe-inspiring twists as they transformed a plot that I thought I’d figured out into something simply breathtaking. Not so out of the realm of possibility that I found myself questioning it, but far enough from my guesses that I was shocked into reading each page faster as I got closer to the end. And what a conclusion it was (like it was written for the silver screen)! I can’t say too much as I don’t want to spoil this near perfect finale, but even when you think it’s over (I mean how could anything additional take place?), there’s one more shocking twist to be had.
I think, however, my favorite aspect was the character building. Kate and Sophie to be specific. Kate was the perfect embodiment of the grief that comes after the loss of a child, but it’s also mixed deftly at some points with the denial that the unanswered questions would surely leave bare. And Sophie! I might even love her more, but I can’t say much about why or you’ll definitely lose the ignorance every reader should have at the start of this book.
Done and dusted, I couldn’t be more in love with Where the Missing Go (and just wait until you learn what’s behind the title). And, despite the slow start that alternated between memories of Sophie and Kate’s depressing reality, this absolutely is my favorite read of 2023 so far. Thick with grief, desperation, and a mother’s love, it was compelling in a way I wouldn’t have expected from a thriller on top of being intense and chilling. If you haven’t read Rowley’s debut fiction novel yet, please take my advice and run out and get it now. Rating of 5+ stars.
Trigger warning: missing child (suspected runaway), dementia, prescription drug and alcohol use, gaslighting, teen pregnancy, false imprisonment, physical and emotional abuse, breaking and entering, stabbing
May 21, 2018
4 Stars
“Where the Missing Go” is a story about a mother who after two years is still in search of her daughter. Sophie was sixteen when she ran away from home and never came back. Just sent some postcards to her mum, Kate, and told her she is doing well. But these are not enough for Kate! She wants to know why Sophie ran away and why she doesn’t come back or why Kate can’t find her and Does she really safe?! Everyone think Kate got obsessed and can’t let go… So now after two years when her neighbor, an old woman who is not in a good health, mentions about a girl who’s gone missing nearly twenty years ago Kate got suspicious especially when she finds about the case’s details!
It was well-paced, a bit predictable and a page-turner. I enjoy it, a lot! I liked its writing, couldn’t put it down and I was at the edge of my seat the whole time! Told in dual POV, 1st person (except for the prologue and epilogue, they’re in 3rd person). It’s a standalone Mystery/Thriller novel. It was my first read by this author but won't be my last. Overall, I had a very good time with this one and hope you like it as well!
“Where the Missing Go” is a story about a mother who after two years is still in search of her daughter. Sophie was sixteen when she ran away from home and never came back. Just sent some postcards to her mum, Kate, and told her she is doing well. But these are not enough for Kate! She wants to know why Sophie ran away and why she doesn’t come back or why Kate can’t find her and Does she really safe?! Everyone think Kate got obsessed and can’t let go… So now after two years when her neighbor, an old woman who is not in a good health, mentions about a girl who’s gone missing nearly twenty years ago Kate got suspicious especially when she finds about the case’s details!
It was well-paced, a bit predictable and a page-turner. I enjoy it, a lot! I liked its writing, couldn’t put it down and I was at the edge of my seat the whole time! Told in dual POV, 1st person (except for the prologue and epilogue, they’re in 3rd person). It’s a standalone Mystery/Thriller novel. It was my first read by this author but won't be my last. Overall, I had a very good time with this one and hope you like it as well!
May 23, 2019
Where the Missing Go by Emma Rowley is a thriller told mainly from the point of view of a mother who’s teenage daughter went missing. Divided into different parts eventually the daughters point of view also comes into play as the story continues.
Kate Harlow has followed any lead or clue she can for two years since her daughter, Sophie, disappeared. Initially the police investigated as Sophie was only sixteen but the case went cold and with all the evidence pointing to Sophie having run away it wasn’t a priority.
Now however Kate gets a call at the hotline she volunteers for that she is sure is her daughter. Despite the police being uninterested in following up since Sophie would now be eighteen Kate begins digging into her daughter’s past in order to finally find her.
Where the Missing Go is one that really builds itself at an extremely slow pace with each section picking it up a slight bit more than the last. As a reader I had to tell myself that eventually we are going to get some twists and learn the outcome as the pace was one that was hard to get fully immersed into. The story was decent in this one though and I liked how the past was worked into Sophie’s disappearance leaving me to rate this one at 3 1/2 stars.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
Kate Harlow has followed any lead or clue she can for two years since her daughter, Sophie, disappeared. Initially the police investigated as Sophie was only sixteen but the case went cold and with all the evidence pointing to Sophie having run away it wasn’t a priority.
Now however Kate gets a call at the hotline she volunteers for that she is sure is her daughter. Despite the police being uninterested in following up since Sophie would now be eighteen Kate begins digging into her daughter’s past in order to finally find her.
Where the Missing Go is one that really builds itself at an extremely slow pace with each section picking it up a slight bit more than the last. As a reader I had to tell myself that eventually we are going to get some twists and learn the outcome as the pace was one that was hard to get fully immersed into. The story was decent in this one though and I liked how the past was worked into Sophie’s disappearance leaving me to rate this one at 3 1/2 stars.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
March 12, 2018
My name is Kate.
I volunteer at a local charity - young people who have run away from home call me
and I pass on messages to their loved ones, no questions asked.
I don't get many phone calls, and those I do are usually short and vague, or pranks.
But this morning a girl named Sophie called.
I'm supposed to contact her parents to let them know their child is safe.
The problem is, Sophie isn't safe.
And Sophie is my daughter
This gripping,riveting thriller is split into three parts,the first part is voiced only by Kate but from part two onwards the narration alternates between Kate and Sophie.We know Sophie is still alive from the book blurb but where has she been for the last two years and how and why has she managed to contact her mother after all this time.Kate has never given up hope that one day her beloved daughter would be found or come home even if everyone else in her life including the police gave up searching for Sophie years ago.You couldn't help admiring Kate`s bravery and determination as she battled against her own demons and the constant doubts of others about her sanity throughout her desperate search for her daughter.Both Kate and Sophie where complex believable characters,the authors portrayal of their ever changing emotions felt realistic,pulled me into the story and had me rooting for her characters.
This is a fast paced,riveting thriller,a gripping tale about the power of a mother's love for her child and the recklessness and naivety of a innocent teenager.It's packed with twists,red herrings and numerous suspects.Very intense and creepy at times,it had me hooked in from.start to finish.This is definitely going to be one of my favourite books of this year.
Many thanks to Orion publishing group for a arc of this book via Netgalley in exchange for a honest review
I volunteer at a local charity - young people who have run away from home call me
and I pass on messages to their loved ones, no questions asked.
I don't get many phone calls, and those I do are usually short and vague, or pranks.
But this morning a girl named Sophie called.
I'm supposed to contact her parents to let them know their child is safe.
The problem is, Sophie isn't safe.
And Sophie is my daughter
This gripping,riveting thriller is split into three parts,the first part is voiced only by Kate but from part two onwards the narration alternates between Kate and Sophie.We know Sophie is still alive from the book blurb but where has she been for the last two years and how and why has she managed to contact her mother after all this time.Kate has never given up hope that one day her beloved daughter would be found or come home even if everyone else in her life including the police gave up searching for Sophie years ago.You couldn't help admiring Kate`s bravery and determination as she battled against her own demons and the constant doubts of others about her sanity throughout her desperate search for her daughter.Both Kate and Sophie where complex believable characters,the authors portrayal of their ever changing emotions felt realistic,pulled me into the story and had me rooting for her characters.
This is a fast paced,riveting thriller,a gripping tale about the power of a mother's love for her child and the recklessness and naivety of a innocent teenager.It's packed with twists,red herrings and numerous suspects.Very intense and creepy at times,it had me hooked in from.start to finish.This is definitely going to be one of my favourite books of this year.
Many thanks to Orion publishing group for a arc of this book via Netgalley in exchange for a honest review
February 23, 2018
WOW! and yet another WOW! I finished Where The Missing Go about 2 hours ago and I’m still saying……WOW! I was so blown away by this fictional debut by Emma Rowley that I went straight onto Amazon after I had read it to see if she had written another book yet! Which was probably a bit too enthusiastically optimistic as this one isn’t even out yet! If you enjoy psychological thrillers by writers such as Jenny Blackhurst and Clare Mackintosh then you are going to love this book. And if you’re a regular reader of my reviews then you’ll know that I have a particular passion for a certain type of twisty thriller and this one is 100% what I look for in my psychological thrillers. If you like similar books to me then I guarantee you will love this one too.
I actually started this in the very early hours one morning when I couldn’t sleep and very quickly became gripped by the storyline of a mother in pieces following the disappearance of her teenage daughter, Sophie. And by the time I had to get up, I was so addicted that I couldn’t wait to get back to bed that night to finish this fascinating storyline. I had immediately felt Kate’s devastation at the loss of her only child, refusing to give up hope, her entire life revolving around looking for clues to Sophies whereabouts. Everyone says she should move on with her life, others close to Sophie have, and accept that Sophie has gone away and doesn’t want to be found. But Kate isn’t giving up and when she takes a call at the missing person hotline she volunteers at, her worst fears seem to be realised.
Everything about this book worked for me! I loved the Cheshire setting which felt authentic with its slower pace of life compared to its biggest neighbour Manchester and also to London which was where the family had been living previously. And Cheshire born Kate was an immensely relatable character, one struggling with her own personal demons, but her maternal instincts that something wasn’t quite right about her daughters disappearance overtook those worries to show the raw emotion of a mother’s love for her child. I thought she was just so wonderfully brave, determined never to give up hope of finding Sophie even though it meant pulling away from every other relationship in her life. But most of all I loved all the red herrings floating around the periphery, never quite in the line of sight but throwing suspicious glances throughout the narrative. This book is twistier than my curls after I’ve been caught in a rainstorm and every twist was a jaw dropping, flick the pages back, “what the **** just happened there?” moment for me! Just how I like them!
Emma Rowley is a name everyone should remember as I think she is going to be HUGE! I pre-ordered my own copy of Where The Missing Go as soon as I finished it and on the strength of this debut, I would also preorder her next book without even reading the blurb-that’s how much I want to read more from this very talented writer. This is a very clever, breathtakingly brilliant read that you won’t be able to put down. Highly recommended by me!
I actually started this in the very early hours one morning when I couldn’t sleep and very quickly became gripped by the storyline of a mother in pieces following the disappearance of her teenage daughter, Sophie. And by the time I had to get up, I was so addicted that I couldn’t wait to get back to bed that night to finish this fascinating storyline. I had immediately felt Kate’s devastation at the loss of her only child, refusing to give up hope, her entire life revolving around looking for clues to Sophies whereabouts. Everyone says she should move on with her life, others close to Sophie have, and accept that Sophie has gone away and doesn’t want to be found. But Kate isn’t giving up and when she takes a call at the missing person hotline she volunteers at, her worst fears seem to be realised.
Everything about this book worked for me! I loved the Cheshire setting which felt authentic with its slower pace of life compared to its biggest neighbour Manchester and also to London which was where the family had been living previously. And Cheshire born Kate was an immensely relatable character, one struggling with her own personal demons, but her maternal instincts that something wasn’t quite right about her daughters disappearance overtook those worries to show the raw emotion of a mother’s love for her child. I thought she was just so wonderfully brave, determined never to give up hope of finding Sophie even though it meant pulling away from every other relationship in her life. But most of all I loved all the red herrings floating around the periphery, never quite in the line of sight but throwing suspicious glances throughout the narrative. This book is twistier than my curls after I’ve been caught in a rainstorm and every twist was a jaw dropping, flick the pages back, “what the **** just happened there?” moment for me! Just how I like them!
Emma Rowley is a name everyone should remember as I think she is going to be HUGE! I pre-ordered my own copy of Where The Missing Go as soon as I finished it and on the strength of this debut, I would also preorder her next book without even reading the blurb-that’s how much I want to read more from this very talented writer. This is a very clever, breathtakingly brilliant read that you won’t be able to put down. Highly recommended by me!
April 30, 2019
A Compelling and Racy psychological thriller!
The night is mild, but the girl shivers. The few cars passing by her look so cozy somehow, their drivers ensconced in their own little worlds, hurrying home to shut out everything.
If any one of them turned their head to look at the slight figure on the pavement, then maybe they would notice that the girl looks a little nervous. Apprehensive, even.
But none of them do notice her, walking just outside of the yellow cones of light from the streetlamps, her long hair hiding her face.
It seemed like such a good idea, at the time. The best idea, in fact.
Now? Now, she’s not so sure.
The girl pushes down her unease. Oh well. Too late now to go back.
He’ll be waiting.
********
Where the Missing Go by Emma Rowley is a compelling, psychological thriller that I read in one sitting!
There are many books about missing children out there but this is a fresh take on a missing teenager, 16 year old Sophie, who left a note on her pillow stating her clear intention that she is running away.
What sets this credible story apart from other similar themes is this:
Sophie's mum, Kate, volunteers at a charity phone line called Message in a Bottle where anyone who has left people behind can call in anonymously and leave a message for thier loved ones which then get passed to the requested party by the charity volunteers. What a cool name and fresh idea!
One night, while manning the phones, a call comes in. Kate recognizes the voice. She's certain it's her daughter, Sophie. But the reception is crackling with static and the call goes dead almost immediately.
That's all I'm going to reveal.
I loved this book and I highly recommend it for anyone who likes compelling mysteries and psychological thrillers!
This is my first novel by Emma Rowley and I will definitely read more of her books.
With much thanks and appreciation to NetGalley, Kensington Publishing Corporation, and Emma Rowley, for giving me this advanced digital copy for me to read and review.
The night is mild, but the girl shivers. The few cars passing by her look so cozy somehow, their drivers ensconced in their own little worlds, hurrying home to shut out everything.
If any one of them turned their head to look at the slight figure on the pavement, then maybe they would notice that the girl looks a little nervous. Apprehensive, even.
But none of them do notice her, walking just outside of the yellow cones of light from the streetlamps, her long hair hiding her face.
It seemed like such a good idea, at the time. The best idea, in fact.
Now? Now, she’s not so sure.
The girl pushes down her unease. Oh well. Too late now to go back.
He’ll be waiting.
********
Where the Missing Go by Emma Rowley is a compelling, psychological thriller that I read in one sitting!
There are many books about missing children out there but this is a fresh take on a missing teenager, 16 year old Sophie, who left a note on her pillow stating her clear intention that she is running away.
What sets this credible story apart from other similar themes is this:
Sophie's mum, Kate, volunteers at a charity phone line called Message in a Bottle where anyone who has left people behind can call in anonymously and leave a message for thier loved ones which then get passed to the requested party by the charity volunteers. What a cool name and fresh idea!
One night, while manning the phones, a call comes in. Kate recognizes the voice. She's certain it's her daughter, Sophie. But the reception is crackling with static and the call goes dead almost immediately.
That's all I'm going to reveal.
I loved this book and I highly recommend it for anyone who likes compelling mysteries and psychological thrillers!
This is my first novel by Emma Rowley and I will definitely read more of her books.
With much thanks and appreciation to NetGalley, Kensington Publishing Corporation, and Emma Rowley, for giving me this advanced digital copy for me to read and review.
March 17, 2018
I was immediately intrigued by the premise of this book and friends, I am thrilled to report it did not disappoint!
As a result of her daughter Sophie going missing 2 years ago, Kate has dedicated herself to the message in a bottle helpline, a helpline where missing persons can phone in and leave a message to be passed on to their loved ones, no questions asked.
One night whilst Kate is working at the helpline, she answers one such call. Although the call is broken at times, Kate realises this is no ordinary caller. The caller sounds like her daughter Sophie, frightened and desperate for help!
But is it really her or is Kate hearing what she desperately wants to hear?
My mind was buzzing with questions:
Where is Sophie?
Why did she disappear?
Is Kate's desperation leading her towards a breakdown?
Taking me a little while to get into at first, the story picked up pace nicely beyond the 25% mark. Spicing things up with an abundance of red herrings, the author had me questioning who exactly was telling the truth. Add in some unexpected plot developments and tension filled moments, I was hooked as the clues kept coming.
The author's writing truly had me feeling Kate's love for her daughter, her raw emotions of determination, anxiety and her frustration in trying to get her daughter back.
The conclusion had me feeling giddy as the pace picked up further still. I could not read fast enough!
Definitely recommended if you're looking for a fast paced, clever, twisty page turner, written by an author who is masterfully skilled at grabbing your attention, I thoroughly enjoyed the roller coaster ride.
Many thanks to Netgalley, Orion Publishing and the talented Emma Rowley for an advanced copy in exchange for my unbiased opinion of this book.
As a result of her daughter Sophie going missing 2 years ago, Kate has dedicated herself to the message in a bottle helpline, a helpline where missing persons can phone in and leave a message to be passed on to their loved ones, no questions asked.
One night whilst Kate is working at the helpline, she answers one such call. Although the call is broken at times, Kate realises this is no ordinary caller. The caller sounds like her daughter Sophie, frightened and desperate for help!
But is it really her or is Kate hearing what she desperately wants to hear?
My mind was buzzing with questions:
Where is Sophie?
Why did she disappear?
Is Kate's desperation leading her towards a breakdown?
Taking me a little while to get into at first, the story picked up pace nicely beyond the 25% mark. Spicing things up with an abundance of red herrings, the author had me questioning who exactly was telling the truth. Add in some unexpected plot developments and tension filled moments, I was hooked as the clues kept coming.
The author's writing truly had me feeling Kate's love for her daughter, her raw emotions of determination, anxiety and her frustration in trying to get her daughter back.
The conclusion had me feeling giddy as the pace picked up further still. I could not read fast enough!
Definitely recommended if you're looking for a fast paced, clever, twisty page turner, written by an author who is masterfully skilled at grabbing your attention, I thoroughly enjoyed the roller coaster ride.
Many thanks to Netgalley, Orion Publishing and the talented Emma Rowley for an advanced copy in exchange for my unbiased opinion of this book.
April 2, 2019
“I love you so” Kate Harlow would say to her daughter, Sophie. “I love you, mo” Sophie would always rhyme back.
How could they go from this, to Sophie running away? Saying that she needed space??
Sophie has been gone for two years now, and the police have stopped investigating. After all, Sophie has sent several postcards home, insisting that she is fine.
Kate’s husband has moved on but Kate has been unable to. She doesn’t visit her Dad or sister, and often ignores their phone calls. About the only thing she manages to to, is volunteer at “Message in a Bottle”, a hotline which allows runaways to call in, and leave messages for loved ones, that the charity will pass on for them, no questions asked.
One evening a call comes in, and despite the static, and the fact that the caller is whispering, Kate recognizes her daughter’s voice, and senses that she is scared. Mother’s intuition.
The problem is: Nobody else believes that it was Sophie, and no one will help.
So, Kate must take matters into her own hands, and do some sleuthing of her own.
After all, there is nothing a mother wouldn’t do for her child-there is nothing stronger than that tie.
Solid writing and an ending that is believable are the strong suits of the book, but the slow pace of part one, brought my rating down a bit...I felt myself wanting to skim.
The pace of parts two and three were faster, but overall, although not a bad story, it is probably not one that I will be thinking about, now that I have finished.
3.5 stars
I must also take a moment to comment on that GORGEOUS new cover! If you look carefully, it is a sliver of light, coming from a slightly ajar door....haunting!!
Thank You to Netgalley, Kensington Books, and Emma Rowley for the digital ARC, I received in exchange for a candid review! This title will be available in the U.S. on April, 30th 2019!
How could they go from this, to Sophie running away? Saying that she needed space??
Sophie has been gone for two years now, and the police have stopped investigating. After all, Sophie has sent several postcards home, insisting that she is fine.
Kate’s husband has moved on but Kate has been unable to. She doesn’t visit her Dad or sister, and often ignores their phone calls. About the only thing she manages to to, is volunteer at “Message in a Bottle”, a hotline which allows runaways to call in, and leave messages for loved ones, that the charity will pass on for them, no questions asked.
One evening a call comes in, and despite the static, and the fact that the caller is whispering, Kate recognizes her daughter’s voice, and senses that she is scared. Mother’s intuition.
The problem is: Nobody else believes that it was Sophie, and no one will help.
So, Kate must take matters into her own hands, and do some sleuthing of her own.
After all, there is nothing a mother wouldn’t do for her child-there is nothing stronger than that tie.
Solid writing and an ending that is believable are the strong suits of the book, but the slow pace of part one, brought my rating down a bit...I felt myself wanting to skim.
The pace of parts two and three were faster, but overall, although not a bad story, it is probably not one that I will be thinking about, now that I have finished.
3.5 stars
I must also take a moment to comment on that GORGEOUS new cover! If you look carefully, it is a sliver of light, coming from a slightly ajar door....haunting!!
Thank You to Netgalley, Kensington Books, and Emma Rowley for the digital ARC, I received in exchange for a candid review! This title will be available in the U.S. on April, 30th 2019!
June 20, 2018
Where The Missing Go is a truly intriguing read, a psychological thriller with a slightly different edge as Kate receives a call she believes is from her missing daughter. Feeling that Sophie is in trouble she seeks help – but those around her believe she is obsessing and seeing things that are not there..
The plot was taut with an ever increasing sense of tension – is Kate losing her mind or is Sophie really out there. The character dynamics are cleverly evasive to keep you guessing even though the suspect pool is small. The themes explored – the mother/daughter relationship, the impact on those left behind when a loved one disappears- are all handled realistically with a strong emotional core.
I read it fast. Addictive and beautifully written Where The Missing Go is an excellent example of how to do a psychological thriller really well.
Recommended.
The plot was taut with an ever increasing sense of tension – is Kate losing her mind or is Sophie really out there. The character dynamics are cleverly evasive to keep you guessing even though the suspect pool is small. The themes explored – the mother/daughter relationship, the impact on those left behind when a loved one disappears- are all handled realistically with a strong emotional core.
I read it fast. Addictive and beautifully written Where The Missing Go is an excellent example of how to do a psychological thriller really well.
Recommended.
July 10, 2023
The thing about the missing is that sometimes they don't want to be found.
Sophie Harlow ran away from home. She left a note for her family saying that she was going away and not to worry about her. Months following her absence her parents, Kate and Mark, receive several postcards in Sophie's handwriting saying that she is okay and not to worry about her, however, her mother, Kate feels like there is something off. Yes, her and Sophie were arguing when she disappeared, and she knows Sophie wanted some space, but she feels like Sophie would at least come home sometime.
Four years haved passed and Sophie still hasn't returned home, but continues to send postcards saying she is okay. The police, Sophie's father (Mark), and the community have accepted the fact that Sophie has runaway and doesn't want to be found.
Everyone but her mother, Kate.
Kate's family now believes that Kate is going crazy. Mark has left her, her sister (Charlotte) wants her to get professional help, and the police are frustrated that Kate will not accept that Sophie has run away. But Kate knows something isn't right about this whole thing, and she will stop at nothing to get her daughter back.
**I love this thriller! The first half of the novel is narrated by Kate(voice of Beth Eyre). The second half intertwines between Sophie(voice of Elaine Fellows)and Kate's story. It's gripping until the very last page. 🩵
Sophie Harlow ran away from home. She left a note for her family saying that she was going away and not to worry about her. Months following her absence her parents, Kate and Mark, receive several postcards in Sophie's handwriting saying that she is okay and not to worry about her, however, her mother, Kate feels like there is something off. Yes, her and Sophie were arguing when she disappeared, and she knows Sophie wanted some space, but she feels like Sophie would at least come home sometime.
Four years haved passed and Sophie still hasn't returned home, but continues to send postcards saying she is okay. The police, Sophie's father (Mark), and the community have accepted the fact that Sophie has runaway and doesn't want to be found.
Everyone but her mother, Kate.
Kate's family now believes that Kate is going crazy. Mark has left her, her sister (Charlotte) wants her to get professional help, and the police are frustrated that Kate will not accept that Sophie has run away. But Kate knows something isn't right about this whole thing, and she will stop at nothing to get her daughter back.
**I love this thriller! The first half of the novel is narrated by Kate(voice of Beth Eyre). The second half intertwines between Sophie(voice of Elaine Fellows)and Kate's story. It's gripping until the very last page. 🩵
February 24, 2018
So this little book managed to jump to the top of my toppling TBR pile because I had heard such great things about it and it was highly recommended by a friend. (Thanks Jo!)
Personally I thought this was a fantastic debut and has all the ingredients of a truly gripping psychological thriller. The characters were all well developed and believable, the story was full of twists, turns and several red herrings and kept me entertained from start to finish.
Where the Missing Go is about Kate, a mother whose only daughter “ran away” 2 years ago but Kate can’t let go, she doesn’t believe her Sophie would leave and when she gets a call one night at the Missing Persons Helpline she volunteers at Kate recognises Sophie’s voice and so begins her investigation to find her missing daughter.
If you like your books full of twists and turns with a fast paced plot line then you will thoroughly love this book.
The only reason this is a 4.5 star review and not 5 stars is because there were several similarities to other books I’ve read but won’t mention as they would spoil this book for you.
Personally I thought this was a fantastic debut and has all the ingredients of a truly gripping psychological thriller. The characters were all well developed and believable, the story was full of twists, turns and several red herrings and kept me entertained from start to finish.
Where the Missing Go is about Kate, a mother whose only daughter “ran away” 2 years ago but Kate can’t let go, she doesn’t believe her Sophie would leave and when she gets a call one night at the Missing Persons Helpline she volunteers at Kate recognises Sophie’s voice and so begins her investigation to find her missing daughter.
If you like your books full of twists and turns with a fast paced plot line then you will thoroughly love this book.
The only reason this is a 4.5 star review and not 5 stars is because there were several similarities to other books I’ve read but won’t mention as they would spoil this book for you.
April 24, 2019
4.5 stars for this heart-pounding, suspense-laden thriller!
Is it true what they say about a mother's instinct? Kate Harlow is absolutely convinced her daughter Sophie didn't just run away with a brief note and no further contact, however, the rest of the world thinks Kate should move on. When Kate receives a choppy phone call on the runaway hotline where she volunteers and believes it to be Sophie, she is more determined than ever to find Sophie.
With masterful pacing, we follow Kate on her desperate attempt to convince, well anyone really, to help find Sophie - but is she on to something, or is this a mother who just can't let go? Throwing in a disoriented neighbor with memories of the past, an estranged relationship with her ex husband and family in doubt, is there anyone who just might trust Kate and help?
If this was just Rowley's debut, I cannot wait to see what she comes up with next.
Thank you to Kensington for an advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
Is it true what they say about a mother's instinct? Kate Harlow is absolutely convinced her daughter Sophie didn't just run away with a brief note and no further contact, however, the rest of the world thinks Kate should move on. When Kate receives a choppy phone call on the runaway hotline where she volunteers and believes it to be Sophie, she is more determined than ever to find Sophie.
With masterful pacing, we follow Kate on her desperate attempt to convince, well anyone really, to help find Sophie - but is she on to something, or is this a mother who just can't let go? Throwing in a disoriented neighbor with memories of the past, an estranged relationship with her ex husband and family in doubt, is there anyone who just might trust Kate and help?
If this was just Rowley's debut, I cannot wait to see what she comes up with next.
Thank you to Kensington for an advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
February 8, 2021
What does a volunteer do when the caller to a charity helpline is her missing daughter?
WHERE THE MISSING GO is the story of Kate's 15-year-old daughter Sophie who disappears and has been missing for two years. Was Sophie kidnapped or did she run away? Although the police investigation revealed that Sophie voluntarily and willingly left Kate's home, Kate struggles to accept this fact. Will police reopen Sophie's case when Kate reports the charity hotline phone call?
A daughter goes missing -- but a mother never gives up hope.
The book is told from the two POVs of Kate and Sophie. The beginning of this book is sluggish. Kate's POV has repetitive dialogue and frequently drags. As soon as Sophie's POV is introduced, the book really picks up. The "villain" who convinced Sophie to leave her home is not revealed until the very end of the book and this added a compelling "Whodunnit?" excitement to the book.
I listened to the audio version of the book. I always love it when a book has multiple narrators and this book's two narrators were superb.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and will definitely be looking forward to listening to this author's future titles.
WHERE THE MISSING GO is the story of Kate's 15-year-old daughter Sophie who disappears and has been missing for two years. Was Sophie kidnapped or did she run away? Although the police investigation revealed that Sophie voluntarily and willingly left Kate's home, Kate struggles to accept this fact. Will police reopen Sophie's case when Kate reports the charity hotline phone call?
A daughter goes missing -- but a mother never gives up hope.
The book is told from the two POVs of Kate and Sophie. The beginning of this book is sluggish. Kate's POV has repetitive dialogue and frequently drags. As soon as Sophie's POV is introduced, the book really picks up. The "villain" who convinced Sophie to leave her home is not revealed until the very end of the book and this added a compelling "Whodunnit?" excitement to the book.
I listened to the audio version of the book. I always love it when a book has multiple narrators and this book's two narrators were superb.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and will definitely be looking forward to listening to this author's future titles.
April 25, 2019
4 Intense Stars!!
Missing child, mother’s instinct, unconditional love, and rebellious teenager’s life choices: perfect mix for an intense psychological thriller. Emma Rowley’s debut novel is a captivating, fast-read full of unexpected twist and turns.
When a teenage girl feels misunderstood by her own mother and decides to put her trust in someone else, the consequences can be dire, especially if that person is a predator. Sophie is only 16-years-old but she already knows what she wants: she is in love and nothing else matter. She decides to leave her family and build a new one with her new love. Unfortunately, things turn out to be much more complicated and Sophie quickly realizes that her decision put her in a very dangerous situation.
Kate cannot accept the fact that her daughter is a runaway. Her maternal instincts will not let her rest and she goes against everyone else, to get to the bottom of what really happened to her daughter. And she is right to do so, as there is no stronger force than mother’s love for her child. By listening to her heart she is able to get closer to her missing child, and to finding out what really happened to Sophie.
This was a compulsive read for me. I was fast reading through parts of this book, just to find out what happens next. The first part of the book was a little slow burn, but I think it was necessary as the author set up the stage for everything else that came in the second part of the story. Emma Rowley did an excellent job in pulling me into the story and in keeping my attention. This was definitely a successful debut novel, and I am looking forward to reading more from this author.
Thank you NetGalley, Kensington Books, and the author, Emma Rowley, for giving me an opportunity to read this intense book in exchange for my honest opinion.
Missing child, mother’s instinct, unconditional love, and rebellious teenager’s life choices: perfect mix for an intense psychological thriller. Emma Rowley’s debut novel is a captivating, fast-read full of unexpected twist and turns.
When a teenage girl feels misunderstood by her own mother and decides to put her trust in someone else, the consequences can be dire, especially if that person is a predator. Sophie is only 16-years-old but she already knows what she wants: she is in love and nothing else matter. She decides to leave her family and build a new one with her new love. Unfortunately, things turn out to be much more complicated and Sophie quickly realizes that her decision put her in a very dangerous situation.
Kate cannot accept the fact that her daughter is a runaway. Her maternal instincts will not let her rest and she goes against everyone else, to get to the bottom of what really happened to her daughter. And she is right to do so, as there is no stronger force than mother’s love for her child. By listening to her heart she is able to get closer to her missing child, and to finding out what really happened to Sophie.
This was a compulsive read for me. I was fast reading through parts of this book, just to find out what happens next. The first part of the book was a little slow burn, but I think it was necessary as the author set up the stage for everything else that came in the second part of the story. Emma Rowley did an excellent job in pulling me into the story and in keeping my attention. This was definitely a successful debut novel, and I am looking forward to reading more from this author.
Thank you NetGalley, Kensington Books, and the author, Emma Rowley, for giving me an opportunity to read this intense book in exchange for my honest opinion.
February 1, 2021
Kurį laiką ši knyga pragulėjo mano namų lentynoje. Nusprendžiau, jog metas atėjo jai! Ir džiaugiuosi pasirinkusi šį skaitinį, nes tikrai neprašoviau 🤗
Keitė niekados nesijautė esanti tobula mama, bet pačia blogiausia taip pat. Iki kol vieną dieną dingo jos šešiolikmetė dukra Sofija.. O jei tiksliau net je dingo, o tiesiog pabėgo. Tuomet Keitės pasaulis pasidalino į dvi dalis. Iki Sofijos pabėgimo ir po jo..
Niekaip negalėdama rasti ramybės Keitė įsidarbina labdaroa organizacijoje, kuri padeda dingusiems asmenims. Per eilinį vakarinį budėjimą Keitė sulaukia skambučio, kuris yra nuo jos dukters Sofijos. Šis skambutis dar labiau viską sujaukia.. Motina yra pasiryžusi surasti savo vaiką. Ji puikiai žino, jog ji toli gražu nėra saugi.
Nežinau kodėl, bet mažai man ši knyga buvo matyta bukstagramo pasaulyje, tad pasiėmusi ją į rankas nežinojau ko tikėtis, bet kartais būtent tai ko norisi bei reikia. Man ši istorija buvo tikra page - turner, nes norėjosi vis skaityti dar ir dar. Bei sužinoti kas nutiko Sofijai ir kur Keitės asmeninis tyrimas ją nuves.
Galbūt tai ir nebuvo pačio orginaliausio siužeto istorija, bet aš tikrai praleidau gerą laiką su ja, o to aš ir norėjau 😊 Tikrai intriga išlaikyta iki pat kūrinio pabaigos, o pabaigę vieną skyrių norėsite skaityti toliau. Man buvo sunku atsiplėšti!
Keitė niekados nesijautė esanti tobula mama, bet pačia blogiausia taip pat. Iki kol vieną dieną dingo jos šešiolikmetė dukra Sofija.. O jei tiksliau net je dingo, o tiesiog pabėgo. Tuomet Keitės pasaulis pasidalino į dvi dalis. Iki Sofijos pabėgimo ir po jo..
Niekaip negalėdama rasti ramybės Keitė įsidarbina labdaroa organizacijoje, kuri padeda dingusiems asmenims. Per eilinį vakarinį budėjimą Keitė sulaukia skambučio, kuris yra nuo jos dukters Sofijos. Šis skambutis dar labiau viską sujaukia.. Motina yra pasiryžusi surasti savo vaiką. Ji puikiai žino, jog ji toli gražu nėra saugi.
Nežinau kodėl, bet mažai man ši knyga buvo matyta bukstagramo pasaulyje, tad pasiėmusi ją į rankas nežinojau ko tikėtis, bet kartais būtent tai ko norisi bei reikia. Man ši istorija buvo tikra page - turner, nes norėjosi vis skaityti dar ir dar. Bei sužinoti kas nutiko Sofijai ir kur Keitės asmeninis tyrimas ją nuves.
Galbūt tai ir nebuvo pačio orginaliausio siužeto istorija, bet aš tikrai praleidau gerą laiką su ja, o to aš ir norėjau 😊 Tikrai intriga išlaikyta iki pat kūrinio pabaigos, o pabaigę vieną skyrių norėsite skaityti toliau. Man buvo sunku atsiplėšti!
January 12, 2019
This book was hit and miss with me. I did enjoy the story and wanted to find out what actually happened to Sophie and I did like the ending. I did however find the book to be a bit all over the place. Some bits were really boring and some parts of it didn’t make sense to me. It had some good twists and turns and it was an ok book but it definitely wasn’t one of my favourites.
March 6, 2018
Picking up up a new book is rather like opening a box of chocolates you never know what you are going to get until you sink your teeth it to it, sometime you are left feeling disappointed and yet other times you find the perfect combination and it leaves you wanting more, rather like Where The Missing Go. What a breathtakingly brilliant psychological thriller this one turned out to be I absolutely loved every twisted page. I feel I should mention it’s Emma Rowley’s debut novel, but what an exciting new voice in the psychological thriller genre and definitely an author to watch out for in the future.
From the opening chapter I found myself instantly “rooting” for Kate to find her missing daughter Sophie, here was a woman grasping to make sense of her daughters disappearance, as a parent myself I felt her ever emotion, the constant need to find answers and her overwhelming sense of guilt, constantly questioning her abilities as a parent, something I’m sure we have all done as a parent over the years. Through out Where The Missing Go Kate’s desperation is palatable, as the reader you can’t but help becoming emotionally involved in Kate and Sophie’s story and praying for a positive outcome.
It’s not very often a character in a book consumes my every waking moment but I found myself constantly thinking about Sophie as Emma Rowley reveals snippets of the events surrounding Sophie’s disappearance. I found my imagination running wild, why did she disappear? Was there something more sinister behind her disappearance? Should I jump to the ending to find out? I never but oh the temptation was overwhelming at times. Throughout Where The Missing Go there are subtle clues and red herrings, some you may not pick up on to reach the final conclusion, personally I love it when an author is able to keep you engaged throughout and my god Emma Rowley manages this with finesse. There were a couple of “big surprises” that when I reached them I’m sure my jaw hit the floor, which certainly added to the overall tension and suspense.
There is so much I would like to say about this book, the twists, those OMG moments, the plot, see I could go on and on but in doing so I would certainly spoil the enjoyment of this read for others. This is one of those psychological thrillers that has all the elements needed to make it stand out from a saturated genre, fantastic characters, a complex and devious plot and most importantly the author leads the reader astray at ever opportunity, in case you haven’t already guessed I loved this book and I will certainly be reading the next book by the author without hesitation. Highly recommended.
All my reviews can be found at http://thebookreviewcafe.com
From the opening chapter I found myself instantly “rooting” for Kate to find her missing daughter Sophie, here was a woman grasping to make sense of her daughters disappearance, as a parent myself I felt her ever emotion, the constant need to find answers and her overwhelming sense of guilt, constantly questioning her abilities as a parent, something I’m sure we have all done as a parent over the years. Through out Where The Missing Go Kate’s desperation is palatable, as the reader you can’t but help becoming emotionally involved in Kate and Sophie’s story and praying for a positive outcome.
It’s not very often a character in a book consumes my every waking moment but I found myself constantly thinking about Sophie as Emma Rowley reveals snippets of the events surrounding Sophie’s disappearance. I found my imagination running wild, why did she disappear? Was there something more sinister behind her disappearance? Should I jump to the ending to find out? I never but oh the temptation was overwhelming at times. Throughout Where The Missing Go there are subtle clues and red herrings, some you may not pick up on to reach the final conclusion, personally I love it when an author is able to keep you engaged throughout and my god Emma Rowley manages this with finesse. There were a couple of “big surprises” that when I reached them I’m sure my jaw hit the floor, which certainly added to the overall tension and suspense.
There is so much I would like to say about this book, the twists, those OMG moments, the plot, see I could go on and on but in doing so I would certainly spoil the enjoyment of this read for others. This is one of those psychological thrillers that has all the elements needed to make it stand out from a saturated genre, fantastic characters, a complex and devious plot and most importantly the author leads the reader astray at ever opportunity, in case you haven’t already guessed I loved this book and I will certainly be reading the next book by the author without hesitation. Highly recommended.
All my reviews can be found at http://thebookreviewcafe.com
May 9, 2019
The story arc caught my eye - a mother searching for her 16 year old daughter even after 2 years of her running away from home.
Kate volunteered at the Message in a Bottle helpline center which passed on the message of the runaway to their parents, no questions asked. It was a safe place till she got a call from a girl whose voice sounded just like Sophie's. In fact, Kate was the only one who knew it was Sophie. Then began a mother's real journey to get her daughter back home, and nobody could stand in her way..
A fantastic book by author Emma Rowley, it kept me hooked through the morning. I just couldn't stop reading it. I needed to know if the mother would ever find her daughter and if she was alive or dead. I craved so desperately to know what had happened to her. I was even tempted to read the ending when the suspense got the better of me. But I resisted. I think I am crazy about the missing child trope, it never gets old with me.
The author has captured a mother's desperation beautifully in this book. She was every mother's nightmare. Kate was shown as a broken mother who couldn't seem to function even after 2 years. She required pills to sleep through the night. Every moment of the waking hour was spent sending requests for information about her daughter online. Everyone gave up, but she didn't. Her need to get her daughter home was greater than her need to breathe. The cops too didn't follow up on the clues given by Kate.
The story followed the twists, slow beginning and certain rushed parts did niggle me, but they were just minor detours in an overall thrilling story.
I was thoroughly hooked into the book to the extent I went for a walk with my kindle, it simply showed my love for it. But it was actually the book's fault, it didn't let go of me. I loved the book, it loved me back. It was delightfully mutual.
Kate volunteered at the Message in a Bottle helpline center which passed on the message of the runaway to their parents, no questions asked. It was a safe place till she got a call from a girl whose voice sounded just like Sophie's. In fact, Kate was the only one who knew it was Sophie. Then began a mother's real journey to get her daughter back home, and nobody could stand in her way..
A fantastic book by author Emma Rowley, it kept me hooked through the morning. I just couldn't stop reading it. I needed to know if the mother would ever find her daughter and if she was alive or dead. I craved so desperately to know what had happened to her. I was even tempted to read the ending when the suspense got the better of me. But I resisted. I think I am crazy about the missing child trope, it never gets old with me.
The author has captured a mother's desperation beautifully in this book. She was every mother's nightmare. Kate was shown as a broken mother who couldn't seem to function even after 2 years. She required pills to sleep through the night. Every moment of the waking hour was spent sending requests for information about her daughter online. Everyone gave up, but she didn't. Her need to get her daughter home was greater than her need to breathe. The cops too didn't follow up on the clues given by Kate.
The story followed the twists, slow beginning and certain rushed parts did niggle me, but they were just minor detours in an overall thrilling story.
I was thoroughly hooked into the book to the extent I went for a walk with my kindle, it simply showed my love for it. But it was actually the book's fault, it didn't let go of me. I loved the book, it loved me back. It was delightfully mutual.
April 30, 2019
I love you, So.
I love you, Mo.
Where the Missing Go was a pleasantly surprising debut novel from Emma Rowley. The chapters were short and face-paced, making for a very quick read. Told primarily from Kate's (the mother's) perspective, there are also a few chapters throughout the second half of the story told from Sophie's (her daughter's).
I probably would have given this novel an extra star had I not figured out the antagonist very early on. I know I say that a lot, and believe me, it bums me out as much as you, fellow reader. There are a few other minor plot twists scattered throughout, but if you're expecting to get a "Holy crap, what did I just read?" type of ending...this isn't the book for you. It's fairly predictable. Nevertheless, I'd definitely give this one a chance if you're looking for a fun, quick, easy read.
3.5 stars
**Many thanks to NetGalley, Kensington, and Emma Rowley for the ARC. All opinions are my own.**
Publication date: April 30, 2019
Goodreads review: April 30, 2019
June 11, 2018
A one-day read and very entertaining it was, too. An enjoyable story that is also poignant and warm. Review to follow very shortly on For Winter Nights.
February 28, 2018
Wow! That was intense.. what a brilliant book! Absolutely loved it, definitely kept me guessing right til the very end.
Sophie was nearly 16 when she disappeared without a trace. Her mother Kate has never given up on finding her alive. One night whilst at her volunteer work at aHelpline she receives a call from her daughter... and this time Kate is determined to get to the truth.
Highly recommend this book! thank you to Orion Publishing and NetGalley and TBC on Facebook for a copy of this book to read and enjoy in exchange for my honest opinions
Sophie was nearly 16 when she disappeared without a trace. Her mother Kate has never given up on finding her alive. One night whilst at her volunteer work at aHelpline she receives a call from her daughter... and this time Kate is determined to get to the truth.
Highly recommend this book! thank you to Orion Publishing and NetGalley and TBC on Facebook for a copy of this book to read and enjoy in exchange for my honest opinions
May 8, 2019
Excellent 5 star read! Where the Missing Go is full of heart stopping and heart wrenching moments! A wild twisty turny ride and if you think you have it figured out, nope, think again! and then again! I kept telling my family "I know what's going on!" then "Wait, now I know!" over and over whilst they had no clue what I was even going on about! I love a book that can flip my brain around and make me break out a notebook and put my scenarios on paper! Yeah, I am that kind of a dork. :) I adored Kate and felt her grief and frustration coming right off of the page. I truly enjoyed all of the characters in this book....I either loved them or thoroughly loved to hate them!
Audiobook Narrator: 5 Fab Stars!
Audiobook Narrator: 5 Fab Stars!
April 25, 2018
Here it is,this amazing book that made me turn pages and pages almost as if I was the one searching for Sophie.
The premise:
My name is Kate.
I volunteer at a local charity - young people who have run away from home call me
and I pass on messages to their loved ones, no questions asked.
I don't get many phone calls, and those I do are usually short and vague, or pranks.
But this morning a girl named Sophie called.
I'm supposed to contact her parents to let them know their child is safe.
The problem is, Sophie isn't safe.
And Sophie is my daughter.
Thi premise is very common. A mother who is dealing with the horror and tragedy of a runaway kidand the consequent broken marriage. She made a mistake of overdosing on pills initially and so whatever her fears and doubts are, they are not taken seriously. She is delusional it seems. Her family and the police think that she is obsessed with the whole matter. Ofcourse she's obsessed, it's her daughter, who can be calm in that situation!
So I have made my displeasure clear when the narrator is painted as delusional,pill popping, drunk(not in this case) with a compulsion for lying ( again not applicable here).The general theme of any mystery.But here the whole situation is cracked up with tension and urgency. I could not stop.
The characters are so well rounded you feel them. The style of writing is great, there's no lag no confusion and when you get to the ending it's worth it. All the loose threads get tied up. If you concentrate maybe you can guess it too.
I can't believe it's a debut work!
Great read.
Great
The premise:
My name is Kate.
I volunteer at a local charity - young people who have run away from home call me
and I pass on messages to their loved ones, no questions asked.
I don't get many phone calls, and those I do are usually short and vague, or pranks.
But this morning a girl named Sophie called.
I'm supposed to contact her parents to let them know their child is safe.
The problem is, Sophie isn't safe.
And Sophie is my daughter.
Thi premise is very common. A mother who is dealing with the horror and tragedy of a runaway kidand the consequent broken marriage. She made a mistake of overdosing on pills initially and so whatever her fears and doubts are, they are not taken seriously. She is delusional it seems. Her family and the police think that she is obsessed with the whole matter. Ofcourse she's obsessed, it's her daughter, who can be calm in that situation!
So I have made my displeasure clear when the narrator is painted as delusional,pill popping, drunk(not in this case) with a compulsion for lying ( again not applicable here).The general theme of any mystery.But here the whole situation is cracked up with tension and urgency. I could not stop.
The characters are so well rounded you feel them. The style of writing is great, there's no lag no confusion and when you get to the ending it's worth it. All the loose threads get tied up. If you concentrate maybe you can guess it too.
I can't believe it's a debut work!
Great read.
Great
April 17, 2019
3.5 stars
Kate's 15 year old daughter, Sophie, runs away from home because she needs "space". Kate fills her emptiness by volunteering at a runaway hotline when two years after Sophie's disappearance she receives a call that she believes to be her daughter. She drops everything to hunt her.
She has divorced her husband and lives alone so she contacts the police who really don't have much of an interest. After all, Sophie left voluntarily. Kate doesn't believe she stayed away voluntarily though. She starts looking for clues and investigating. Everyone thinks she is losing it from her family to the police to the doctor. The hotline lets her go.
Meanwhile we hear from Sophie and discover where she is and what has been happening to her. The story takes some twists and turns that are quite surprising and keep you on the edge of your seat. I did not see the end coming and I sit up late to finish it. An interesting debut novel.
Kate's 15 year old daughter, Sophie, runs away from home because she needs "space". Kate fills her emptiness by volunteering at a runaway hotline when two years after Sophie's disappearance she receives a call that she believes to be her daughter. She drops everything to hunt her.
She has divorced her husband and lives alone so she contacts the police who really don't have much of an interest. After all, Sophie left voluntarily. Kate doesn't believe she stayed away voluntarily though. She starts looking for clues and investigating. Everyone thinks she is losing it from her family to the police to the doctor. The hotline lets her go.
Meanwhile we hear from Sophie and discover where she is and what has been happening to her. The story takes some twists and turns that are quite surprising and keep you on the edge of your seat. I did not see the end coming and I sit up late to finish it. An interesting debut novel.
April 11, 2019
So, the first half of the book is slow-paced – like, glacier slow. I must have put the book down half a dozen times. However, there was still something about it – something that made me curious – and I kept returning to it.
See, while it’s not a thriller (really, it isn’t), there’s enough suspense and I liked our main character enough that I wanted to know what happened.
I will say that the beginning is a bit trite. All these domestic thriller/suspense novels seem to follow a lot of the same formula these days. But it takes a fascinating turn when it comes to Sophie, our missing girl. The author adds some elements to the story that are different, exciting, and that simply made me want to keep reading.
The 2nd half of the book is a much faster read. As things came to a head, I realized I had no clue who our villain was…and I was definitely surprised!
This one is 3.5 stars, edging up to 4 stars. Slow start, but worth the read.
See, while it’s not a thriller (really, it isn’t), there’s enough suspense and I liked our main character enough that I wanted to know what happened.
I will say that the beginning is a bit trite. All these domestic thriller/suspense novels seem to follow a lot of the same formula these days. But it takes a fascinating turn when it comes to Sophie, our missing girl. The author adds some elements to the story that are different, exciting, and that simply made me want to keep reading.
The 2nd half of the book is a much faster read. As things came to a head, I realized I had no clue who our villain was…and I was definitely surprised!
This one is 3.5 stars, edging up to 4 stars. Slow start, but worth the read.
March 17, 2024
Knyga būtų gavusi didesnį įvertinimą, bet labai jau ilgai reikėjo skaityti ją kol pasidarė įdomu. Knyga nėra stora, tačiau ji ilgai pas mane užsigulėjo, vis po keliasdešimtis puslapių perskaitydavau ir padėdavau, aišku džiugu, kad jau po to kai įsibėgėjo pasakojimas tai įsibėgėjo. Tai nėra pats įdomiausias ar originaliausias detektyvas, tačiau pati istorija tikrai gana įdomi. Pabaigos panašios ir tikėjausi, aišku to vieno dalyko maniau, kad nėra, bet va (negaliu pasakyti, nes nebus įdomu skaityti). Ar knyga verta dėmesio? Taip. Ar siūlyčiau jos nemesti dėl ilgos knygos įžangos? Taip pat taip. Lengvas vakaro skaitinys, tačiau bus ir kur pasukti galvą kas gi čia yra kas šioje istorijoje ir kodėl viskas įvyko kaip įvyko.
February 3, 2018
An amazingly gripping read, I found this book really hard to put down. It's a super thriller with plenty of twists and turns and held my attention all the way through to the enthralling climax.
Sophie went missing two years ago. Her disappearance was initially investigated by the police, but as she had left a note and further communications arrive from her in the coming months stating she is safe and not to worry, they start to wind down their search. Mum Kate is desperate to find her though and refuses to give up looking, latching on to any clue that comes her way. She knows something just isn't right, and when, volunteering at a missing persons helpline she receives a call from Sophie, she takes her investigations into overdrive.
We see most of the story unfold from Kate's perspective and she is a superbly drawn character. I had such empathy with her predicament and her fierce love for her child, simply refusing to give up even when others around her do. Just over halfway through, Sophie starts to reveal what has happened to her and these parts were completely heart-rending. Just as I thought the story had concluded, there was another unexpected twist which I loved and felt perfectly rounded up this riveting thriller.
*I received a copy of the book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Sophie went missing two years ago. Her disappearance was initially investigated by the police, but as she had left a note and further communications arrive from her in the coming months stating she is safe and not to worry, they start to wind down their search. Mum Kate is desperate to find her though and refuses to give up looking, latching on to any clue that comes her way. She knows something just isn't right, and when, volunteering at a missing persons helpline she receives a call from Sophie, she takes her investigations into overdrive.
We see most of the story unfold from Kate's perspective and she is a superbly drawn character. I had such empathy with her predicament and her fierce love for her child, simply refusing to give up even when others around her do. Just over halfway through, Sophie starts to reveal what has happened to her and these parts were completely heart-rending. Just as I thought the story had concluded, there was another unexpected twist which I loved and felt perfectly rounded up this riveting thriller.
*I received a copy of the book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
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