Vanished

Circle of the Red Lily #2

by Anna J. Stewart

She'll risk everything to expose the truth.

Since her twin sister Sylvie's disappearance seven years ago, single mother Mabel Reynolds has turned grief into action and become a strong voice for victims of violence and abuse. When new revelations shed light on what may have happened not only to Sylvie, but dozens of other women, Mabel's hope for answers is reignited. But the new oh-so-charming DA overseeing the investigation seems more interested in a quick rather than an accurate resolution. With little faith in the system, Mabel isn’t about to stay quiet, not when she’s finally close to the truth. She’s willing to go up against anyone—even a smug, irritating, attractive DA to get the answers she and other families deserve.

Open and shut.

That's what Assistant DA Paul Flynn has been told about his new assignment supervising a house of horrors case. With a high-profile conviction at stake, Paul can’t afford to make a wrong move if his professional goals are to be achieved. But Mabel Reynolds has his attention. All of it. Attraction aside, the woman knows far more than what’s in the official files which makes her something even more intriguing. But using Mabel as an asset means exposing her and her young daughter to even more danger. Danger that is closing in on them from every side. As even darker forces appear, and their lives are threatened, Paul is faced with risking not only his entire career, but also the one thing he never anticipated losing: his heart.

Genres: Mystery, Romantic Suspense, Thriller, Romance, Contemporary

400 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 18, 2023

About the author

Anna J Stewart is the USA Today bestselling author of more than fifty sweet to spicy romances. She primarily writes for Harlequin's Heartwarming (sweet romance) and Romantic Suspense (spicy romance). In addition to being a Holt Medallion winner (Bride on the Run), she’s finaled in the Daphne duMaurier Award for Excellence, the National Readers’ Choice and had one of her books optioned as a TV movie. No matter the story, Anna’s books are always about family—the ones we’re born to and the ones we create. Anna lives in Northern California where she loves going to the movies, attending fan conventions, and heading to Disneyland, her favorite place on earth. When she’s not writing, she is usually cooking, baking, binge-watching her newest TV addiction, or re-watching her all-time favorite shows, Supernatural and all things Star Trek and Star Wars She also spends a frustrating amount of time wrangling two monstrous cats named Rosie and Sherlock. You can read more about Anna, her books, and her workshops for authors at www.AuthorAnnaStewart.com.

Reviews

[Tracey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a well-written, entertaining, fast paced, romantic suspense novel. It has a likable, strong and capable female protagonist, an engaging male protagonist, sizzling chemistry, a sweet eight year old girl, the unbreakable bond between sisters, supportive and caring friends, a touch of humor, intrigue, murder, mystery, twists and turns, and a satisfying conclusion. This is the second entry in Ms. Stewart's Circle of the Red Lily series, and it is best when read in order for continuity. I won a copy of this fabulous novel as a subscriber of Ms. Stewart's newsletter. This is my honest opinion.

["Avonna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Check out all my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com

VANISHED (Circle of the Red Lily Book #2) by Anna J. Stewart is a thrilling romantic suspense and the second book in the Circle of the Red Lily series. This book features Mabel Reynolds’ continuing search for answers and justice for her missing twin sister. While the romance, investigation, and capture of the criminal perpetrator are a complete story, the continuation of the overarching Circle of the Red Lily conspiracy suspense plot leads me to recommend the reading of this series of books in order.

Single mom Mabel Reynolds has been searching for answers regarding her missing twin, Sylvie, for eight years. While doing bookkeeping and taxes from home to support herself and her eight-year-old daughter, Keeley, she also volunteers with a local abuse shelter as a way to support others as she waits for word of her twin. As she is assisting a new abuse victim, events occur that follow the same pattern as what happened to her twin. It all begins to once again lead back to the Red Lily secret organization.

A special case District Attorney Paul Flynn is assigned to investigate the disappearance of the women tied to a mysterious historical mansion where all their pictures were discovered. Mabel shows up on his first day to find out if he truly wants answers or is like the rest of the DA ‘s office and just wants the case to go away. Paul discovers that not only does Mabel have information he needs, but that he has a personal attraction to her that he finds surprising.

As the danger around Mabel and Paul’s discoveries increases, so does their relationship. With threats coming from every direction, can Mabel and Paul, with help from the other inhabitants of Temple House, discover answers to where Sylvie is and who is involved in this 100-year-old Tinseltown criminal conspiracy?

This book had me captivated right away and I read it all in one sitting. Mabel is very strong and sympathetic, determined to raise her daughter in a loving home and find answers to the disappearance of her twin. Paul has a tragic back story of abuse, neglect, and loss which makes him determined to be the success he is but also makes him believe he cannot be more personally. The two of them together was a great demonstration of showing love and possibilities. I loved Keeley, Mabel’s daughter, she is a sweet and mature character for her age, and she has the right amount of emotional interaction between Mabel and Paul to move them forward. I also enjoyed Sylvie’s dream and spectral interactions with Mabel and Keeley. The overarching conspiracy plot from book #1, Exposed, continues and while some things were discovered, there are still many questions left for future books featuring the other inhabitants of Temple House.

I highly recommend this romantic suspense in the Circle of the Red Lily series and am looking forward to discovering more answers and following more romances with the others in Temple House!

[Kim Reads (Read Your Writes Book Reviews) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reviewed by Gemini

Vanished is the second book in Anna J. Stewart’s Circle of the Red Lily Series. I truly enjoyed the first book, Exposed, so I was definitely looking forward to this one. If you didn’t read the first book, I think that you would be at a disadvantage trying to follow along with everything that happens. There’s murder, conspiracies, cover-ups, and romance.

Vanished focuses on Mabel Reynolds and Assistant District Attorney Paul Flynn. In the previous book, Mabel got one step closer to figuring out what may have happened to her twin sister Sylvie who disappeared over a decade ago. Now that more information has surfaced regarding several women who have gone missing over the years, The District Attorney brings in no-nonsense Assistant DA Paul Flynn to investigate a mansion that appears to be at the center of a much more elaborate crime than anyone could have imagined that could involve plenty of California’s elite that spans almost 100 years. Mabel insists on being kept up to speed on the investigation and Paul quickly learns that he wants her around. They develop a deep connection that threatens to make Paul break all of the promises that he made to himself concerning the demons he left behind from his former life.

I loved every single moment of this Vanished. All of the characters from the previous book are still around and they are one close-knit family. Much to Paul’s surprise, they quickly become his family too. Note that the body count continues to rise as the investigation goes deeper so don’t let your guard down. If something bad can happen, it most definitely will. I was entertained for the whole journey and I can’t wait for the next book in the series.

**Received a copy of the book from the author and voluntarily reviewed it.**

[Bonnie Phelps · Rating 5 out of 5]

Anna J. Stewart delivers another action-packed, keep you on the edge of your seat romantic suspense thriller. This is the second book in the Circle of the Red Lily series as the characters continue to work to unravel the mystery of why young women in Los Angeles – including Mabel’s twin sister – have vanished without a trace going back decades. New York attorney, Paul, has been hired to lead the investigation when new evidence is uncovered. Falling in love was not in either Mabel or Paul’s plans but when she’s in danger he knows he can never leave her.

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vanished is the second book in Anna J. Stewart’s fabulous series, Circle of the Red Lily. I recommend reading the books in order as they are full of lots of important details and history. It is set in Los Angeles and is about a group of five best friends who have apartments in Temple House. In book one we met all the friends and each book features one and also includes all the others. This book focuses on Mable. She is an accountant with a 8 year old daughter who also volunteers as an advocate in rape and abuse cases. Mable originally moved to LA eight years earlier after her twin sister Sylvie disappeared. She has no clue what happened to her sister but fears she’s no longer alive. It was recently discovered that over 60 women’s pictures were found on the walls of a home where a Hollywood agent had lived.

The group believes that a secret group, run by influential people throughout LA is the reason for the women’s disappearances. As they investigate they believe them to be dead. The location of the bodies is unknown and searches are ongoing. Those who live in Temple House have been brought into the case and all contribute to trying to solve it and protect each other. It is discovered there have been many disappearances of young women stretching back decades and are associated with a red lily symbol.

The DA and mayor seem to be thwarting the efforts to solve the mystery of the missing women and learn who is behind the decades long crimes. Finally, a special agent is appointed to work with the police and the assistant DA. Paul Flynn has temporarily moved from New York to work on the case. He grew up in LA having a terrible childhood and leaving as soon as he could. His best friend was the assistant DA and how he came to work with the case. He and Mabel hit it off and worked together on looking for her sister, specifically. Both are adverse to the idea of a relationship but ended up falling for the other.

I can’t say enough praises about this book and the series. It is well written and full of suspense, mystery, intrigue, surprises, romance and drama. I enjoy the interactions between the friends living in Temple House and the boyfriends that join the group. It is great to have all the characters we met in the first book, be an active part of the next story as well. Anna has made the story very realistic and believable. This is another 5 star book that I am happy to recommend.

I was fortunate to receive this ARC from Tule Publishing Company in exchange for my honest review.

[SOS · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book two in the Circle of the Red Lily series. It picks up where book one ended. The residents of Temple House are recovering from what happened to Riley in book one. They’re also continuing to dig into the deaths of many young women. They’re especially eager to find out what happened to Mabel’s twin sister, Sylvie who disappeared eight years ago.

This book introduces New York prosecutor Paul Flynn, a native of Los Angeles, a place he’s vowed to never return. However, his good friend and Head of the Special Investigations Unit at the District Attorney’s office asks him to come and take over the investigation into the missing women, he can’t say no. His intention is that once the case is concluded, he will return to New York permanently. He’s a man who keeps his promises, even to himself. In this situation, however, he may discover that there’s something more important.

This book, a romantic thriller/suspense, focuses on the insta-love between Paul and Mabel. It also includes kidnapping, physical attacks, psychological attacks, mass murder, and the likelihood of a cult. If that’s not enough, there’s also a touch of the paranormal; although, that’s very limited.

This book reveals Paul’s childhood background, and the difficult life he had back then. It becomes clear that he’s the person he’s made himself, not a copy of his parent. Paul and Mabel, despite Mabel’s skepticism, quickly hit it off. Her extremely precocious daughter Keeley is equally enamored with Paul. He comes through as a kind and caring person, despite his intense focus on bringing criminals to justice.

This book involves shared grief and guilt. It’s also about family and friendship. The Temple House family is growing, and I enjoyed getting to know more about all the characters.

I enjoyed this book very much. It kept me turning pages, eager to know what would happen next. I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series.

I highly recommend this book.

I received an advanced reader copy of this book from the publisher, Tule. I thank all involved for their generosity in sharing this book with me, but it had no effect on this review. All opinions in this review reflect my true and honest reactions to reading this book.

[Suzana · Rating 4 out of 5]

*ARC provided via NetGalley and I am leaving an honest review*

Vanished is the second book in an intrigue series Circle of the Red Lily. Fast-paced, utterly terrifying intrigue about mystery, found family, friendship that keeps reader guessing until the very end. Vanished is an intense, compelling, gripping, edge of the seat page turner that I enjoyed from the beginning to the end.

Vanished follows Mabel Reynolds who is a strong advocate for victims of violence and abuse. She has dedicated and devoted her whole life to finding her sister who has been missing for over eight years with no answers. That's why she'll risk everything to expose the truth especially when she gets a breakthrough: new revelations shed light on what may have happened not only to Sylvie, but dozens of other women. Her grief turns into a reignited hope for answers. Mabel doesn't trust the police as her history with them is complicated especially because oh-so-charming DA overseeing the investigation seems more interested in a quick rather than an accurate resolution. Mabel is willing to go up against anyone now that she’s finally close to the truth, to bring justice to families who deserve it. The only bright spot in her life is her daughter, Keeley. Assistant DA Paul Flynn has his own demons to conquer. His new assignment and a high-profile conviction at stake, Paul can’t afford to make a wrong move if his professional goals are to be achieved. He is very intrigued and attracted by argumentative and determined Mabel especially because he sees that she knows far more than what’s in the official files which makes her something even more intriguing. But he knows using her as an asset is very wrong and means exposing her and her daughter to more danger that they already are. They make a great team and a couple. These two are great characters, very stubborn and determined. Paul and Mabel have to lose so much with taking risks - risking their life, Paul his career and heart. Their loyalties are tested through danger, darkness, romance and suspense.

A fantastic, suspenseful, and captivating book.

[Happily Ever After Romance · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reviewed at Happily Ever After Romance

Vanished is the second title in the Circle of the Red Lily series, bringing us an intense romance for Mabel, a woman who stands for the victims of violence, and for a sister reeling from recent updates about her twin, who has been missing for seven years. Paul, an ADA, didn’t expect the case he’d been working on to suddenly take an unexpected turn thanks to a spitfire determined to find justice. Neither expected to find love in the middle of a dangerous investigation, yet they can’t ignore their feelings. Life for Mabel and Paul is about to get interesting.

I thoroughly enjoyed returning to this world, though I strongly recommend reading this trilogy in order. Each story can stand on its own, yet a continuing thread of the Red Lily runs through them, connecting all three on another level. There is a sense of urgency that runs through this story as clues lead to an unexpected connection to Mabel’s sister’s disappearance. The residents of Temple House will, once again, play a large part in solving this mystery. The uncovering of evidence will lead to more questions and send a chill up your spine as you begin to think about the possibilities this discovery brings. Tie in a romance that neither Mabel nor Paul saw coming adds another layer to this romantic suspense.

Vanished is well-written, emotional, and intense as this couple fights for answers and navigates their own feelings for each other. There are surprises in store, an urgency to find answers, and a criminal ring to bring down. I was easily swept up in Paul and Mabel’s story, following clues to unexpected conclusions. If you enjoy fitting puzzle pieces together or figuring out whodunit before the reveal, then you’d love this one.

*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the author or the author’s team via Booksprout, and I sincerely thank them for their trust. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*

[Cathy Geha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vanished by Anna J. Stewart
Circle of the Red Lily #2

Wow ~ Just ~ W O W!!!! ~ Once I began to read I could not put this book down!

What I liked:
* Mabel Reynolds: single mother, victims advocate, searching for answers about her missing twin, accountant, good friend loving mother, honest, caring, stands up for what she believes in, rather taken with Paul Flynn
* Paul Flynn: lawyer, investigator, difficult childhood, bright, strong, resilient, keeps his promises, good friend, protective, caring, has fears to overcome, grows and learns more about himself, rather taken with Mable and her daughter Keeley
* Keeley: almost nine, bright, curious, great addition to the story, loved her interactions with others
* Catching up with the residents of Temple House – a family of sorts – wouldn’t mind living there
* Watching the relationship develop between Mabel and Paul
* Sylvie: Mabel’s twin, disappeared, presumed dead, strong presence even though never there in the flesh
* Jeff Chambers: Paul’s friend, Head of the DA’s special investigation unit, loving father and husband, bright, good friend
* The supporting characters and the parts they played in the story – some old and some new to the series
* Learning more about the Circle of the Red Lily – and just how evil it must be
* That it took place in Los Angeles County and knowing where most everything was located as I grew up there
* The conclusion, link to the next book, and knowing there will be another book…hopefully soon

What I didn’t like:
* Who and what I was meant to dislike
* The evil people who in the decades old Circle of the Red Lily and all the pain they have caused
* Having to wait to read the next book

Did I like this book? Yes
Would I read more by this author? Definitely

Thank you to NetGalley and Arc Manor Books for the ARC – This is my honest review.

5 Stars

[Lynn Brooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

The highly anticipated follow up to EXPOSED! Anna J. Stewart opened the door to a very complex and diabolical world with the first book in her Circle of the Red Lily series and anyone who enjoyed it was looking forward to the follow up. I can state that it did NOT disappoint ... however ... this book is very intense and interwoven with the first book so deeply that it's simply not a stand alone. I am an avid reader/reviewer and I myself had to put it down after the first chapter and go back and reread the first one (which I never do) because of the level of mystique that alludes to happenings from the first book but isn't elaborated on. Once caught up on that first book and all of the events, it was easier to let this story carry me into the heart of the case again. I very highly recommend that you read this series in order and close together.

The plot of this story is centered around a group of missing women, and one sister in particular that has been living her life simply to find her sister for almost a decade now. She's closely connected to Riley from the first book in the series so we get a reunion with the cast from last time and they further endear themselves into our heart. I thoroughly enjoyed the mystery and the characters and am looking forward to more to come in the series ... I just really hope it's easier to pick up as a stand alone next time with a little more detail fleshed out to catch the reader up on what has happened previously without requiring a full re-read.

[Sarah Cudlipp · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't even know that I have sufficient words to describe how incredible this book is. It was absolutely mind-blowingly incredible. There was also a terrifying element of realism, as the focus of the book is on things that do happen and could easily happen to those we know and love. That element in combination with the incredible writing is something that gave me shivers up and down my spine. It had me absolutely and completely involved from start to finish.

Mabel is an incredible character and she has dedicated and devoted her entire life to finding her sister who has been missing for over eight years with no answers. This is the second book in the Circle of the Red Lily series, and while I am absolutely going to go back and read the first because of the amazing characters and writing style of this author, I didn't feel lost or confused jumping in with this book. I'm also hopeful that there are going to be many more in the series.

This was so gripping and the book kept me intrigued and constantly guessing what was possibly going to happen next. It kept me thinking the entire time as well and was totally unpredictable. This is the first novel I have read by Anna J. Stewart and with her writing style and the amount of skill she has shown with this book, it is absolutely the first of many that I have read by her. I can't wait to find out where this series goes next and what Anna gives us!

[Lynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mabel Reynolds has been searching for her missing twin sister, Sylvie as well as other missing women, for 7 long years, but recently, the dreams of her sister are becoming more vivid and more informational than ever before. The people she is working with at Temple House have also been coming up with new leads, giving Mabel hope that her sister might eventually be found. The arrival of special investigator, Paul Flynn, not only gives Mabel new hope, but makes her feel the first attraction to a man since her 8 year old daughter was born. Meanwhile, Mabel's work with Soteria House has brought her to a recent assault victim who may have a connection with the Circle of the Red Lily.

Vanished is a welcome addition to the Circle of the Red Lily series with interesting, well-developed characters and even more clues in the overarching mystery. The protagonists are likable, and both have backstories involving violence and loss, giving them common ground for the beginning of a romance. And while their feelings for each other grow very quickly, they are balanced by multiple clues and evidence popping up throughout the plot. Mabel's daughter, Keeley adds some humor to the story even though she reads a bit too mature to be 8 years old and the appearance of Mabel's sister, Sylvie adds a paranormal element to the narrative. Overall, Vanished is an engrossing novel, leaving this reader yearning for the next installment. 4 1/2 stars

[Charmaine Fernando · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a gripping, suspenseful crime novel that will keep you engaged and riveted from start to finish. The main characters, Mabel and Paul are beautifully written, and they are connected having both lost a sibling.

Mabel’s twin, Sylvie has been missing for more than eight years and Mabel has made it her mission to find out what happened to her. There are many dark days and the thing keeping Mabel focused and determined to solve the mystery is her love for her sister and to find the underlying cause of what led to her disappearance along with several other women.

Once the DA decides to reopen the case of the missing women, Paul Flynn is brought in from the New York office and tasked to lead the investigation.

As the case gets more complex and dangerous, Mabel must share whatever information she has gathered on her sister’s case with Paul and collaborate with him.

As the story unfolds I kept assuming it would go in one direction only for the author to prove me wrong! This kept me engaged and glued to the very end.

Exceptional story, wonderful characters, fast-paced, terrifying at times but a page-turner! I would encourage you to read it for yourself and decide.

I received an ARC from NetGalley, and this is my honest opinion.

[Elaine Coghlan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vanished ~ Circle of the Red Lily #2 by Anna J Stewart

Vanished is an emotional romantic thriller that explores courage, redemption, and the cost of love in a city built on secrets. As the second installment in the series, it picks up a few months after Framed and continues the gripping storyline with even greater intensity.

This time, the focus shifts to Mabel, whose twin sister was one of the victims of the Circle of the Red Lily. Haunted by grief and unanswered questions, Mabel refuses to let the past rest. Her determination to uncover the truth behind her sister’s murder drives the story forward, pulling readers deeper into a web of danger and deception.

Assistant District Attorney Paul Flynn joins the case, adding both tension and emotional depth as the investigation unfolds. The chemistry between the characters is compelling, and their shared pursuit of justice creates a powerful emotional core.

Anna J. Stewart delivers another well-written story filled with intense, gripping suspense and intrigue. The pacing keeps you hooked from start to finish, while the emotional stakes make it impossible not to become invested in the characters’ journeys.

A truly captivating read and a must for fans of romantic thrillers—I highly recommend it.

[Yvonne Cruz · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this suspense romance, readers are taken back to Los Angeles and the Temple House . This time, the story belongs to single mom Mabel Reynolds.
Mabel’s twin sister disappeared years ago but Mabel has never stopped looking for her. Her loss has driven her to be an advocate for those victims of abuse. Her constant questions has made her persona non grata with the DA’s office.
New York lawyer Paul Flynn never wanted to return to LA, the place where his childhood was a painful nightmare. But at the request from a friend, he’s back to assist in unraveling a horrific case.
What neither Paul nor Mabel expected that from the moment she goes to his office asking for action on the search of her sister, an attraction would occur.
From that moment on, the suspense intensifies as does the relationship.
Will Mabel get closure? Will the case become more complex ? Will Paul leave Mabel and her daughter behind or will he stay for them and the case?
The author delivers another wonderful edge of your seat story. Can’t wait for what else the author has in store for us.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.

[Eileen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vanished by Anna J. Stewart, book two in her Circle of the Red Lily series, the highly anticipated follow up to the first book, Expose, is quite intense and interwoven with that first book; not quite making it a stand alone read. This is a continuation of the Circle of Red Lily series involving Mabel and the residents of Temple House. Mabel is looking for answers to the disappearance of her twin sister, Sylvie, who vanished 8+ years ago. Sylvie is one of 60+ women who disappeared and all seem to be connected to the Red Lily secret society. Once the DA is convinced to reopen the case, Paul Flynn, a prosecutor from New York, is brought in to help with the case. This book has a little of everything. It made me laugh, it made me cry, it made me swoon, but most of all, I did NOT want to put it down. This was such a gripping story, one that will have you laughing one moment, and have your heart pounding the next. It kept me intrigued and constantly guessing what was going to happen next. It kept me thinking the entire time as well and was totally unpredictable. I highly recommend Vanished to other readers.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

[MK · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book #2 in Circle of the Red Lily....
A book that’s worthy for so much more then just 5 stars. I was hooked from page one. A book that will have you laughing one moment, and have your heart pounding the next. Even having you so moved a tear may fall. That’s Anna J. Stewart ladies. That is an amazing author who can do that.

Mabel was not one for being ignored or pushed aside. She wanted answers about her sister. Mabel was a single mother to Keeley who was a smart girl at the age of eight. They had some many people that watched over them at the Temple House. They were there friends.

Paul Flynn is working temporary in the DA’s building. He was brought in by his friend Jeff to do a job. When Mabel met him she didn’t have much faith him in at all.

The case gets more complicated and more dangerous then Paul even thought. Mabel had trusted him to include him on several things. He didn’t want to get attached, and that’s exactly what happened.

I highly suggest you buy the book. So much more to come.

Release Date=11/21/23

[Sharon Grow · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nightmares often plagued Mabel Reynolds since her twin sister, Sylvie, went missing seven years ago. Mabel, a single mother with an eight-year-old daughter Keeley, was always the more practical twin. She has devoted herself to helping women who are in need of rescuing from violence and abuse. She knows that her sister is most likely dead, but will never stop searching for her. A search was completed at the Tenado estate where pictures of women were found displayed on the wall of the mansion…Sylvie’s was one of those pictures. A new special investigator, Paul Flynn, is determined to find the women in those pictures and bring justice to the women and their families. He finds himself attracted to Mabel, but needs to concentrate on the case while keeping Mable and her daughter safe. When her life is threatened, will Mabel’s connection to her sister help her find the strength to survive? The beginning of this book was a little confusing, for me, but then the story took off. I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (paytonpuppy)

[Debbie Lyon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVED Vanished!!! This is a continuation of the Circle of Red Lily series and involves Mabel along with the other residents of Temple House.

Mabel is looking for answers to the disappearance of her twin sister, Sylvie, who vanished 8+ years ago. Sylvie is one of 60+ women who disappeared and all seem to be connected to the Red Lily secret society. Once the DA is convinced to reopen the case, Paul Flynn, a prosecutor from New York, is brought in to help with the case.

I can't do justice in a review of this book, so will just say the suspense will keep you engaged and on the edge of your seat waiting to see what will transpire.

I wish that I could get into Stewart's head just for a day to see how she comes up with this suspenseful and gripping stories!!!

Do not miss this series!!!

[Ash · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and ARC Manor for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review. I gave the first book in the duology a 3 out of 5 and wasn't planning on reading the second one, but I ended up giving it a chance anyway because of Anna J Stewart's writing style.
This second book made me feel welcome back into the world of the Temple Apartments, but there were a few things that made me want to put the book down. Paul's inner monologue about Mabel was slightly sickening because of how much he thought about her in ways best left to the bedroom, especially so soon after meeting her. Same with Mabel's thoughts of Paul. It felt too much like lust at first sight. I requested this book because I felt like it should be better than the first in the series, but I was left disappointed. I give this book a 3 out of 5. I liked the book, but not enough to read it again.

[RK · Rating 5 out of 5]

The second book in Circle of the Red Lily. It was just as good as the first. I loved it from beginning to end. Mabel Reynolds wanted answers to what happened to her sister Sylvie’s. She disappeared and Mabel is left with nothing. It’s been 7 years and someone needs to tell her something. Now she’s faced a Assistant DA Paul Flynn that’s new to town. She’s learned he’s working on the case which also involves her sister. Mabel will not back down. The minute she meets the DA she doesn’t trust him. He assures her he will handle things.

Wait and see. What will come of the case? I will say it this was amazing.
The ending was wow! That’s all I can say.

I can’t wait until the next book comes out.

[Tammy Lunsford - Escape to Books By Tammy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This thriller is full of suspense and action. This is the second book in the Circle of the Red Lily series.

Mabel has been looking for her sister. She has been missing for 8 years. Mabel has lived through the tragedy of her missing sister which is why she is so good at helping victims of abuse and violence. She is a bulldog with a cause and spunk.

Assistant District Attorney Paul Flynn has overcome many obstacles to be where he is today. His past has made him better at his job.

The mystery and intrigue are good and the cast of characters make this a more palatable read. Mystery and thriller lovers will devour this one.

Thank you to Tule Publishing for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Sheri Bolinger · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book 2 in the Circle of the Red Lily series! While standalone read, it adds depth if you've read book 1. This time it's Mable's story being told. 8 years ago her twin disappeared and the trail seems to be cold or buried deep. While working on her sister's case, she is an advocate for abused women. This woman is so strong! I just cant say enough about her character and how she keeps a smile on her face with all she sees. Her daughter, Kelley, definitely helps with that! When ADA Paul is assigned as the head of the task force (of only 1!!) Of her sister's case, sparks fly! But what starts out as opposition turns warmer. I lived all the twists and turns in this book. It kept me on my toes. It was intense and wonderdul!

[Fleur · Rating 5 out of 5]

We really had no idea how things would change and what would be uncovered in this next installment of this series and wowsers do we go on an emotional ride. Paul matches Mabel's determination and she finally gets to felt heard, the fact they have an attraction makes this even better. We learn more about Sylvie which at times warms and saddens you and Keeley is just the sweetest.
I love seeing this group being one big family and start to find love at the same time and the support they give each other is what helps them keep going especially during some heart stopping moments!!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Barbara Tobey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Exciting romantic suspense. Many heartwarming moments as a young girl is featured in this one. The search for the many victims continues. Each book has a happily ever after romance, but the mystery does continue. I hope we reach the conclusion in the third one. All the familiar characters are present along with a few new ones. Not a fan of spirit creatures but the story is so engaging that I don't let that stop me from enjoying the tale. I also skip over any intimate scenes. Thanks to Booksprout for providing a copy, My review is voluntary.

[Paula Pugh · Rating 4 out of 5]

The crime saga of Circle of the Red Lily continues in this thrilling novel. The life of Mabel is about to change when she meets Pual, an investigative lawyer called to L.A. from New York. His roots are in L.A., a place he vowed never to return. Among the threats to Mabel whose sister was tortured and killed by the Circle, they find themselves tightly drawn to each other. The death threats of the evil Circle swirl around them with no leads to solving in sight.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Shannon Binegar-Foster · Rating 5 out of 5]

As the story continues we are joined by Paul Flynn the new investigator brought in from New York by the DA. Paul is promised an easy case, but it quickly proves to be anything but. Sparks fly instantly between Paul and Mabel. He has a troubled past and is reluctant to commit to a relationship. Will they successfully solve the case? Will he give into the chemistry between him and Mabel and allow something more? Oh my gosh this book was phenomenal. So many secrets revealed. I can’t wait for book 3. I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book provided by booksprout.

[Annarella · Rating 5 out of 5]

I started and then stopped because there were references to the previous book, Exposed, and I wanted to read it as I felt I was missing something,
This review will be integrated with the new parts after I read the beginning of the series.
It's better to read the series in order even if you could read it as a stand-alone
Buying the rest of the series is the most favourable review.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine

[DeeAnn · Rating 5 out of 5]

VANISHED by Anna J. Stewart
Release date November 18, 2023
(circle of the red lily #2)

If you like a fast paced romantic suspense then I highly suggest this one. And never disappoints me! This is a definite five star read that will keep you reading to the very last page.

Mabel’s twin Sylvie has been missing for eight years! Mabel can’t let it go. She will find out what happened to her sister.

Thank you, Anna for another wonderful read. Definitely five stars.

[Candy Laine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mabel and Paul are such well written characters. The angst of loosing a beloved sibling has framed and shaped both their lives. The Circle of the Red Lily is closing in on the Temple House residents. Even as they commit new crimes to cover up old ones, the team is getting set to expose them. Can't wait to see what Cass' book will bring.