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Harper Adams Mystery #1
Little Girl Vanished
Disgraced, ex-detective Harper Adams is perfectly content wallowing at rock bottom. She’s lost her job, house, and reputation, and it only gets worse when she’s forced to move back home to Jackson Creek, Arkansas, the one place she swore she’d never return. But everything changes when she gets chilling news. A childhood friend’s daughter is missing…and it’s eerily reminiscent of Harper’s sister’s kidnapping and murder two decades ago. Not her business. Except with the police fumbling the case at every turn, Harper realizes she might be the only one who can save the girl. And she might need the help of James Malcolm, a former crime boss, to do it.
376 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 11, 2023
1279 people are currently reading
1536 people want to read
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September 17, 2024
I couldn’t put this one down! Harper Adams has moved home to her distant parents after shooting a kid in what she thought was self defence but the gun wasn’t found. The cops have turned her back on her and when she heads home wallowing in the bottom of a bottle, the cops there have an issue with her as she believes they bungled the case of her sister two decades earlier. Only to find herself drawn in to a similar disappearance in the present day as the childhood friend of her sister – the one who should have been with her the day she was kidnapped – wakes to find her daughter is missing.
While a heroine in the story, Harper is deeply flawed and dealing with the loss of her job, life & work partner, reliant on her parents who seem to resent her after her sister’s death and numbing it with a lot of alcohol. Her detective skills and awareness are not at their peak but she fights to find Ava despite many possible suspects, someone stalking her and the police insistence that she is just a runaway.
This series brings back a character from earlier books by Denise Grover Swank, James Malcolm from the Rose Gardner Investigation series that has moved up my to read list because I want to know his history. There is already a second Harper Adams book in the works, Long Gone, available next January as Harper tries to find her way back home.
Thanks to NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for the ARC for review.
While a heroine in the story, Harper is deeply flawed and dealing with the loss of her job, life & work partner, reliant on her parents who seem to resent her after her sister’s death and numbing it with a lot of alcohol. Her detective skills and awareness are not at their peak but she fights to find Ava despite many possible suspects, someone stalking her and the police insistence that she is just a runaway.
This series brings back a character from earlier books by Denise Grover Swank, James Malcolm from the Rose Gardner Investigation series that has moved up my to read list because I want to know his history. There is already a second Harper Adams book in the works, Long Gone, available next January as Harper tries to find her way back home.
Thanks to NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for the ARC for review.
June 10, 2023
Wow, wow, wow! Little Girl Vanished, the newest series from DGS, is incredible! Harper Adams is honestly one of the best heroines I’ve read in a long time. Her inner dialogue seems very real, I could see myself believing and acting the way she does if I were in her shoes. You can tell she’s a little older and more mature than most of Grover Swank’s female leads which worked really well in this novel. The mystery was thrilling! I kept thinking I knew what the twist would be but even I was surprised in the end. There wasn’t a whole lot of action but that didn’t impact the fast pace of the story (and the fact that I couldn’t put it down).
And JAMES. MALCOLM. in all his glory! He was every inch the man Team James have known and loved. It was really, really great to see him in his new life. Carter too :)
For DGS fans, you’ll love this series because it’s a new and exciting take written in ways we’ve come to love from Denise. For Rose fans, see above paragraph about Skeeter. For mystery fans, it’s an incredible, realistic story with a variety of interesting and dynamic characters. It’s another amazing series that has me counting down the days until the next release!
And JAMES. MALCOLM. in all his glory! He was every inch the man Team James have known and loved. It was really, really great to see him in his new life. Carter too :)
For DGS fans, you’ll love this series because it’s a new and exciting take written in ways we’ve come to love from Denise. For Rose fans, see above paragraph about Skeeter. For mystery fans, it’s an incredible, realistic story with a variety of interesting and dynamic characters. It’s another amazing series that has me counting down the days until the next release!
June 11, 2023
I must admit, I am always very excited when there’s a new book by Denise Grover Swank. I have never been disapointed, and this one is definitely in the absolute top!
Here’s Harper Adams now.
A new heroine, a new town and the start of a new series.
Harper has few common traits with earlier main characters in DGS books. She’s jaded, a bit older (not old, 35) and if not an actual alcoholic then in high risk of becoming one.
She is a disreputable ex police officer, blamed to have shot an unarmed kid. She knows that he shot at her first, but there’s no weapon found. In disgrace she moves back to her hometown, living in her parent’s garage.
One day the twelve year old daughter of her dead sister’s best friend is missing.
There are subtle clues connecting Ava’s disappearance to that of Harper’s sisters over 20 years ago.
Harper’s sister was kidnapped, raped and killed.
Why is the local police force, and the girl’s father, so adamant that she’s a runaway?
Who leaves Harper notes?
Why does everything seem to lead to Harper’s sister’s case?
And what’s up with James Malcolm?
Why is he helping Harper?
DGS is a great story weaver, I’m sucked into the story and I don’t want to leave it as it ends.
She writes great characters. Harper is a very good example of her introducing a new main character. The story is told in first person and Harper is both very hard on herself and suspicious of her surroundings while she at the same time slowly allows the reader to get closer and opens up a bit.
Then there’s James Malcolm.
As a devoted DGS reader I know him well through the Rose Gardener series, and yes, I was #teamjames. But this time I meet him through Harper Adams. Harper knows about him, knows his reputation. She doesn’t get all the pieces of the James Malcolm puzzle to fit as they start a reluctant partnership searching for the missing girl. I think I know him well, but he IS an enigma, and that makes him more intriguing.
I must admit that I was one of all the women who squeled in delight when DGS revealed that he would take part in this book.
Still, this is Harper’s story and I really want to follow her into her next case. I have to wait until next year, but I’ve learned that good books comes to those who wait for them!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Here’s Harper Adams now.
A new heroine, a new town and the start of a new series.
Harper has few common traits with earlier main characters in DGS books. She’s jaded, a bit older (not old, 35) and if not an actual alcoholic then in high risk of becoming one.
She is a disreputable ex police officer, blamed to have shot an unarmed kid. She knows that he shot at her first, but there’s no weapon found. In disgrace she moves back to her hometown, living in her parent’s garage.
One day the twelve year old daughter of her dead sister’s best friend is missing.
There are subtle clues connecting Ava’s disappearance to that of Harper’s sisters over 20 years ago.
Harper’s sister was kidnapped, raped and killed.
Why is the local police force, and the girl’s father, so adamant that she’s a runaway?
Who leaves Harper notes?
Why does everything seem to lead to Harper’s sister’s case?
And what’s up with James Malcolm?
Why is he helping Harper?
DGS is a great story weaver, I’m sucked into the story and I don’t want to leave it as it ends.
She writes great characters. Harper is a very good example of her introducing a new main character. The story is told in first person and Harper is both very hard on herself and suspicious of her surroundings while she at the same time slowly allows the reader to get closer and opens up a bit.
Then there’s James Malcolm.
As a devoted DGS reader I know him well through the Rose Gardener series, and yes, I was #teamjames. But this time I meet him through Harper Adams. Harper knows about him, knows his reputation. She doesn’t get all the pieces of the James Malcolm puzzle to fit as they start a reluctant partnership searching for the missing girl. I think I know him well, but he IS an enigma, and that makes him more intriguing.
I must admit that I was one of all the women who squeled in delight when DGS revealed that he would take part in this book.
Still, this is Harper’s story and I really want to follow her into her next case. I have to wait until next year, but I’ve learned that good books comes to those who wait for them!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 6, 2024
Title: Little Girl Vanished
Author: Denise Grover Swank
Rating: 4/5 ⭐️'s
“Little Girl Vanished" marks the captivating beginning of a new series by Denise Grover Swank. The mystery thriller unfolds in a small town haunted by a previous child kidnapping, drawing in an ex-detective facing her own struggles. With numerous twists & turns, it's a gripping read that's hard to put down.
Denise Grover Swank's writing style shines in this book, seamlessly flowing & maintaining an engaging pace. The realistic & relatable character portrayals were a highlight, keeping me captivated from start to finish.
I highly recommend "Little Girl Vanished" to fans of Denise Grover Swank, enthusiasts of mystery thrillers, & anyone seeking a promising new series. I am eagerly anticipating the next installment!!!
After several years without a DGS book, this one lived up to my expectations & more. A big thank you to #LittleGirlVanished & #NetGalley for the eARC. All opinions shared are strictly my own.
#Bookstagram #Bookish #ReadingList #BookLover #BookNerd #ReadersofInstagram
#InstaBooks #BookRecommendation
#mysterythriller #bookreview #BooksofInstagram
Author: Denise Grover Swank
Rating: 4/5 ⭐️'s
“Little Girl Vanished" marks the captivating beginning of a new series by Denise Grover Swank. The mystery thriller unfolds in a small town haunted by a previous child kidnapping, drawing in an ex-detective facing her own struggles. With numerous twists & turns, it's a gripping read that's hard to put down.
Denise Grover Swank's writing style shines in this book, seamlessly flowing & maintaining an engaging pace. The realistic & relatable character portrayals were a highlight, keeping me captivated from start to finish.
I highly recommend "Little Girl Vanished" to fans of Denise Grover Swank, enthusiasts of mystery thrillers, & anyone seeking a promising new series. I am eagerly anticipating the next installment!!!
After several years without a DGS book, this one lived up to my expectations & more. A big thank you to #LittleGirlVanished & #NetGalley for the eARC. All opinions shared are strictly my own.
#Bookstagram #Bookish #ReadingList #BookLover #BookNerd #ReadersofInstagram
#InstaBooks #BookRecommendation
#mysterythriller #bookreview #BooksofInstagram
May 2, 2025
This was a nice surprise.
The FMC is a delightfully sassy ex detective with a drinking problem.
So of course she is moonlighting as a PI type character.
The story was beautifully entwined between past and present storylines.
I am so excited that this is the start of a series and cannot wait to spend more time with Harper Adams.
BIG thank you to NetGalley & BooksGoSocial for my ebook.
The FMC is a delightfully sassy ex detective with a drinking problem.
So of course she is moonlighting as a PI type character.
The story was beautifully entwined between past and present storylines.
I am so excited that this is the start of a series and cannot wait to spend more time with Harper Adams.
BIG thank you to NetGalley & BooksGoSocial for my ebook.
June 25, 2023
I’m not usually a big mystery fan because I prefer more time spent on relationships and character growth than the linear nature straight-up mysteries afford. HOWEVER, I have read almost every single mystery Ms. Swank has ever written beginning with her very first Rose Gardner book. And that is because she takes time to develop amazing relationships and character growth, all while penning some of the best mystery storylines out there.
In this, the first of a new series, we are introduced to a brand new character while re-visiting a much beloved (to me) character from previous series. James *Skeeter* Malcom is a shady but extremely complex character who is also immensely loyal and honorable (in his own way). He is a straight shooter, brash with little time for finesse or BS. He has also run a world-wide crime syndicate, spent time in prison and is an enigma with layers bone deep. Bottom line, he is probably the reason fans like myself are so excited for this new series and one new fans will quickly become addicted to!
Harper, a new character in the DG Swank universe, is a bit more iffy for me. She is a disgraced police detective whose dismissal is mired in questions (for which the answers will most assuredly come to light little by little as the series continues). She has returned to her hometown only to become a raging but still functioning alcoholic. Even when she is searching for her friend’s daughter, who has been kidnapped, she uses alcohol to get her through and often drinks herself into a stupor at night.
Now, I am sure the author will slowly rehabilitate her and there are all kinds of opportunities for growth (obviously) that will be interesting but you can also see why some (myself included) may have a hard time connecting with her. She has understandably gone through some of the worst that life can throw at her and one can understand her struggle. But, at this point I couldn’t find a lot to like about her aside from trying to help her friend. There wasn’t much of a personality shown aside from the drinking.
The mystery aspect is what makes this first installment shine. It is as good as this author is known for. The villain is always a surprise (although I did amazingly guess this one pretty early… probably because I’m such a fan that I can guess at the weird turns this author’s mind may take!). And the journey is assuredly an un-put-downable ride!
In this, the first of a new series, we are introduced to a brand new character while re-visiting a much beloved (to me) character from previous series. James *Skeeter* Malcom is a shady but extremely complex character who is also immensely loyal and honorable (in his own way). He is a straight shooter, brash with little time for finesse or BS. He has also run a world-wide crime syndicate, spent time in prison and is an enigma with layers bone deep. Bottom line, he is probably the reason fans like myself are so excited for this new series and one new fans will quickly become addicted to!
Harper, a new character in the DG Swank universe, is a bit more iffy for me. She is a disgraced police detective whose dismissal is mired in questions (for which the answers will most assuredly come to light little by little as the series continues). She has returned to her hometown only to become a raging but still functioning alcoholic. Even when she is searching for her friend’s daughter, who has been kidnapped, she uses alcohol to get her through and often drinks herself into a stupor at night.
Now, I am sure the author will slowly rehabilitate her and there are all kinds of opportunities for growth (obviously) that will be interesting but you can also see why some (myself included) may have a hard time connecting with her. She has understandably gone through some of the worst that life can throw at her and one can understand her struggle. But, at this point I couldn’t find a lot to like about her aside from trying to help her friend. There wasn’t much of a personality shown aside from the drinking.
The mystery aspect is what makes this first installment shine. It is as good as this author is known for. The villain is always a surprise (although I did amazingly guess this one pretty early… probably because I’m such a fan that I can guess at the weird turns this author’s mind may take!). And the journey is assuredly an un-put-downable ride!
June 10, 2023
I’m always excited to read a book by Denise Grover Swank. Little Girl Vanished a Harper Adams Mystery her newest series goes above and beyond what I expected! The book is fast-paced, nail biting drama. It is a phenomenal start to Denise’s new series!
Harper returns to her hometown a broken detective and is met with harsh judgement and hostility. Harper started drinking when she was suspended and forced to resign after the shooting of a teenage boy whose weapon disappeared.
Once home her deceased sister’s best friend daughter twelve year old Ava goes missing and suddenly Harper’s life is filled with harassment, intrigue, suspense and murder. Harper meets James Malcom and her life becomes even more involved in seeking answers to Ava’s abduction as well as her sister’s abduction and death.
Harper is a flawed character. She appears to be a functioning alcoholic. She is guilt ridden over her sister’s abduction and death. She is damaged by her mother’s rejection and an emotionally vacant father.
The readers sees the weaknesses in the town and people Harper meets. Small town gossip, prejudices and bullying makes it difficult to know who to trust.
Little Girl Vanished has created a very real world.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Harper returns to her hometown a broken detective and is met with harsh judgement and hostility. Harper started drinking when she was suspended and forced to resign after the shooting of a teenage boy whose weapon disappeared.
Once home her deceased sister’s best friend daughter twelve year old Ava goes missing and suddenly Harper’s life is filled with harassment, intrigue, suspense and murder. Harper meets James Malcom and her life becomes even more involved in seeking answers to Ava’s abduction as well as her sister’s abduction and death.
Harper is a flawed character. She appears to be a functioning alcoholic. She is guilt ridden over her sister’s abduction and death. She is damaged by her mother’s rejection and an emotionally vacant father.
The readers sees the weaknesses in the town and people Harper meets. Small town gossip, prejudices and bullying makes it difficult to know who to trust.
Little Girl Vanished has created a very real world.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 13, 2023
Little Girl Vanished: A small town kidnapping (Harper Adams Mystery Book 1) by Denise Grover Swank is absolutely phenomenal!
Swank literally had me hooked from the very beginning, to the nail biting end.
Whether you are a huge mystery/thriller fan, or just love an exceptional read, this book is for you.
Swank delivers a storyline focused on Harper Adams, a disgraced ex-detective, who is trying to find her way in the small town she grew up in.
And gets thrown for a huge curve, when her childhood friends daughter goes missing.
Harper is hit with so many emotions, and determined to find this little girl alive.
After all, she couldn’t save her own sister so many years ago, when she was abducted and murdered.
What she doesn’t expect is her number one ally will be former crime boss, James “Skeeter” Malcolm.
“…. maybe you should live your life outside the shadow of your sister’s death.”
Malcolm maybe brutally honest, and have his own agenda.
But he’s definitely the best bet she has in helping to find this young girl alive.
The question is will a crooked and incompetent police force get in their way.
Will she be able to prove to herself, and others, that she’s more than the disgraced past they see?
An absolute must read!
5 Nail Biting Stars
Swank literally had me hooked from the very beginning, to the nail biting end.
Whether you are a huge mystery/thriller fan, or just love an exceptional read, this book is for you.
Swank delivers a storyline focused on Harper Adams, a disgraced ex-detective, who is trying to find her way in the small town she grew up in.
And gets thrown for a huge curve, when her childhood friends daughter goes missing.
Harper is hit with so many emotions, and determined to find this little girl alive.
After all, she couldn’t save her own sister so many years ago, when she was abducted and murdered.
What she doesn’t expect is her number one ally will be former crime boss, James “Skeeter” Malcolm.
“…. maybe you should live your life outside the shadow of your sister’s death.”
Malcolm maybe brutally honest, and have his own agenda.
But he’s definitely the best bet she has in helping to find this young girl alive.
The question is will a crooked and incompetent police force get in their way.
Will she be able to prove to herself, and others, that she’s more than the disgraced past they see?
An absolute must read!
5 Nail Biting Stars
June 11, 2023
Sitting down with a Denise Grover Swank Mystery is always a fantastic experience and Little Girl Vanished exceeded my expectations. Swank’s talent for world-building shines in the first book of this new series. The dialogue, the characters and the unexpected twists all kept me turning pages to find out what would happen.
Harper is a fierce heroine who finds herself begrudgingly returning home after leaving her job as a detective in Little Rock, to live with her parents. When the daughter of a childhood friend goes missing Harper is haunted by the similarities to her sister’s kidnapping two decades earlier.
Her search for the girl has her crossing paths with none other than fan favorite, James Malcom (from the Rose Gardener Mystery series). His appearance was EVERYTHING I’d hoped it would be. Harper doesn’t trust him, but she needs his help. This series is completely independent so readers can read this without having read the other series.
I am hooked on this new series and eagerly anticipate the next installment!
Harper is a fierce heroine who finds herself begrudgingly returning home after leaving her job as a detective in Little Rock, to live with her parents. When the daughter of a childhood friend goes missing Harper is haunted by the similarities to her sister’s kidnapping two decades earlier.
Her search for the girl has her crossing paths with none other than fan favorite, James Malcom (from the Rose Gardener Mystery series). His appearance was EVERYTHING I’d hoped it would be. Harper doesn’t trust him, but she needs his help. This series is completely independent so readers can read this without having read the other series.
I am hooked on this new series and eagerly anticipate the next installment!
June 20, 2023
The story revolves around Harper, who is a disgraced detective who embarks on a mission to find a missing girl upon her return to her hometown. Teaming up with the enigmatic James Malcolm adds a layer of complexity to the story. Their unlikely alliance creates a dynamic and engaging partnership as they delve deeper into the investigation. How I missed James Malcolm!
What initially appears to be a slow-paced start soon evolves into an incredible read as the plot thickens and the mystery deepens. Denise Grover Swank skillfully weaves a web of suspense, keeping readers on the edge of their seats and constantly guessing the next twist and turn.
Little Girl Vanished is an incredible read that will leave you eagerly turning the pages, yearning for answers, and emotionally invested in the characters' journey. If you love James Malcolm and want to know more about him, check out the Rose Gardner series.
What initially appears to be a slow-paced start soon evolves into an incredible read as the plot thickens and the mystery deepens. Denise Grover Swank skillfully weaves a web of suspense, keeping readers on the edge of their seats and constantly guessing the next twist and turn.
Little Girl Vanished is an incredible read that will leave you eagerly turning the pages, yearning for answers, and emotionally invested in the characters' journey. If you love James Malcolm and want to know more about him, check out the Rose Gardner series.
June 10, 2023
If you liked Denise’s Rose Gardener series you will love this new series. Harper is a disgraced cop who moves home and finds herself neck deep in a kidnapping.
Harper is dark and gritty and takes no crap from anyone. Great storyline with twists and turns you won’t see coming.
And of course my favorite James Malcolm is back. But is he back to his Skeeter ways?
Harper is dark and gritty and takes no crap from anyone. Great storyline with twists and turns you won’t see coming.
And of course my favorite James Malcolm is back. But is he back to his Skeeter ways?
June 25, 2023
Finished reading: June 24th 2023
"No matter what I did, it would never be enough to replace the life snuffed out twenty-one years ago. I would never be enough."
*** A copy of this book was kindly provided to me by Netgalley and BooksGoSocial in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! ***
P.S. Find more of my reviews here.
June 11, 2023
I received an ARC and I am leaving a voluntary review of Little Girl Vanished.
Little Girl Vanished is the first book in Harper Adams Mystery. It is a mystery thriller.
Blurb:
A new mystery series by Denise Grover Swank, author of the USA Today, New York Times, and Wall Street Journal bestselling Rose Gardner Series.
James "Skeeter" Malcolm's story isn't finished yet.
Disgraced, ex-detective Harper Adams is perfectly content wallowing at rock bottom. She’s lost her job, house, and reputation, and it only gets worse when she’s forced to move back home to Jackson Creek, Arkansas, the one place she swore she’d never return.
But everything changes when she gets chilling news. A childhood friend’s daughter is missing…and it’s eerily reminiscent of Harper’s sister’s kidnapping and murder two decades ago.
Not her business.
Except with the police fumbling the case at every turn, Harper realizes she might be the only one who can save the girl.
And she might need the help of a former crime boss to do it.
Review:
Harper is a disgraced detective who lost her job due to the predicament she was put in. She is in her hometown hiding away from attention. Little does she know that the bartender she met is James Malcolm, who is a former crime lord; little does she know that she would be needing his help.
I love Harper so much for putting pretentious officer's ass to their place like yeah you might think she did wrong but guess what, she is the true badass. I also love how she is determined to find the missing girl despite the people around her making her feel like she is not trustworthy. This is the kind of officer I want in my country. A strong portrayal of Harper was the best thing ever.
I loved this thriller mystery sooo much! Thank you for the ARC. Highly recommended.
Little Girl Vanished is the first book in Harper Adams Mystery. It is a mystery thriller.
Blurb:
A new mystery series by Denise Grover Swank, author of the USA Today, New York Times, and Wall Street Journal bestselling Rose Gardner Series.
James "Skeeter" Malcolm's story isn't finished yet.
Disgraced, ex-detective Harper Adams is perfectly content wallowing at rock bottom. She’s lost her job, house, and reputation, and it only gets worse when she’s forced to move back home to Jackson Creek, Arkansas, the one place she swore she’d never return.
But everything changes when she gets chilling news. A childhood friend’s daughter is missing…and it’s eerily reminiscent of Harper’s sister’s kidnapping and murder two decades ago.
Not her business.
Except with the police fumbling the case at every turn, Harper realizes she might be the only one who can save the girl.
And she might need the help of a former crime boss to do it.
Review:
Harper is a disgraced detective who lost her job due to the predicament she was put in. She is in her hometown hiding away from attention. Little does she know that the bartender she met is James Malcolm, who is a former crime lord; little does she know that she would be needing his help.
I love Harper so much for putting pretentious officer's ass to their place like yeah you might think she did wrong but guess what, she is the true badass. I also love how she is determined to find the missing girl despite the people around her making her feel like she is not trustworthy. This is the kind of officer I want in my country. A strong portrayal of Harper was the best thing ever.
I loved this thriller mystery sooo much! Thank you for the ARC. Highly recommended.
June 22, 2023
It’s been several years since I have read anything by DGS, so when I saw this come available k I thought I would give it a try and see if I still liked her writing style, and I am glad I did. I enjoyed the story and I will look for book 2 in the series.
Harper Adams is a disgraced cop who is forced to move back home to her parents house. In Arkansas, even though she had vowed to herself that she never would. Her family history there involved the kidnapping and murder of her sister many years ago and neither she nor her family have really fully recovered from it. Now she is basically a functioning alcoholic after she was accused of shooting an unarmed kid-but she swears it wasn’t true-he had a gun-but somehow the gun “disappeared “ and she was penalized for her actions
Soon after her arrival in town, Ava, the daughter of her late sister’s best friend goes missing, and there are some striking similarities in the disappearances of both girls and the local police seem to be quite ineffective at handling the case, so Ava’s mom asks Harper to try to find Ava. Harper has to make alliances with people she wouldn’t normally trust, but she knows if she doesn’t do something, Ava is likely to meet the same fate as her sister, and Harper is determined not to let that happen.
But, has Ava just run away, as is being claimed by some of the family members or has something more sinister taken place? How is is connected to Harper’s sister’s case?
This was engaging and engrossing and I liked the characters. Not your typical detective story.
Thanks to DGS and NetGalley for this eArc in exchange for my review.
Harper Adams is a disgraced cop who is forced to move back home to her parents house. In Arkansas, even though she had vowed to herself that she never would. Her family history there involved the kidnapping and murder of her sister many years ago and neither she nor her family have really fully recovered from it. Now she is basically a functioning alcoholic after she was accused of shooting an unarmed kid-but she swears it wasn’t true-he had a gun-but somehow the gun “disappeared “ and she was penalized for her actions
Soon after her arrival in town, Ava, the daughter of her late sister’s best friend goes missing, and there are some striking similarities in the disappearances of both girls and the local police seem to be quite ineffective at handling the case, so Ava’s mom asks Harper to try to find Ava. Harper has to make alliances with people she wouldn’t normally trust, but she knows if she doesn’t do something, Ava is likely to meet the same fate as her sister, and Harper is determined not to let that happen.
But, has Ava just run away, as is being claimed by some of the family members or has something more sinister taken place? How is is connected to Harper’s sister’s case?
This was engaging and engrossing and I liked the characters. Not your typical detective story.
Thanks to DGS and NetGalley for this eArc in exchange for my review.
June 12, 2023
To say I was excited for a new mystery series that brought back James Malcom was an understatement. I have been Team James since he was first introduced in Rose’s series and this book made my heart so happy! Plus he brought Carter Hale with him!
I loved how real Harper, our main heroine, is. She’s struggling after a recent work incident that led to her leaving the police force and moving back home. She’s never really gotten over the loss of her sister. Now she must help find her sister’s former best friend’s missing child. To top it all off, does she have a stalker? I really appreciated getting to see her try to deal with all of this and as well as attempt to overcome her demons. She’s gritty and I like that she’s mid-30s. She’s making for a promising character and I’m excited to see where DGS takes her moving forward.
Now, how does James fit in? Well, naturally, Harper finds herself needing his help. But can she trust him? Is he really the suspected nefarious character she thinks he is? You’ll have to read to find out!
Fast paced and full of mystery, Little Girl Vanished drew me in quickly and kept me turning the pages. I love the characters in this new series and I can’t wait to read more of Harper’s world in the future.
I loved how real Harper, our main heroine, is. She’s struggling after a recent work incident that led to her leaving the police force and moving back home. She’s never really gotten over the loss of her sister. Now she must help find her sister’s former best friend’s missing child. To top it all off, does she have a stalker? I really appreciated getting to see her try to deal with all of this and as well as attempt to overcome her demons. She’s gritty and I like that she’s mid-30s. She’s making for a promising character and I’m excited to see where DGS takes her moving forward.
Now, how does James fit in? Well, naturally, Harper finds herself needing his help. But can she trust him? Is he really the suspected nefarious character she thinks he is? You’ll have to read to find out!
Fast paced and full of mystery, Little Girl Vanished drew me in quickly and kept me turning the pages. I love the characters in this new series and I can’t wait to read more of Harper’s world in the future.
June 20, 2023
HOLY SMOKES!
What. A. Read.
I started the prequel before dinner and this after…it’s 9AM and I’m done. It was THAT good.
DSG is a wicked storyteller. She can suck you in and not let up until you close and finish the book. This was such an unputdownable book. I NEEDED to get to the finish line and even when I did, I wanted more.
I’m totally invested in Harper Adams…and I want to see her vindicated. And the jury is still out on Malcolm. 😉
I highly recommend this read. And I will be now going back and devouring her backlist as I have only read first 6 books in Carly Moore series. I have not done book 7 because I saw there’s older characters that come into play. Im usually a stickler for reading order. So now I must binge. Because DGS has quickly become a favorite of mine. And an amazing voice in this genre. Trust me‼️
What. A. Read.
I started the prequel before dinner and this after…it’s 9AM and I’m done. It was THAT good.
DSG is a wicked storyteller. She can suck you in and not let up until you close and finish the book. This was such an unputdownable book. I NEEDED to get to the finish line and even when I did, I wanted more.
I’m totally invested in Harper Adams…and I want to see her vindicated. And the jury is still out on Malcolm. 😉
I highly recommend this read. And I will be now going back and devouring her backlist as I have only read first 6 books in Carly Moore series. I have not done book 7 because I saw there’s older characters that come into play. Im usually a stickler for reading order. So now I must binge. Because DGS has quickly become a favorite of mine. And an amazing voice in this genre. Trust me‼️
June 20, 2023
This is the first book in a new series and I enjoyed it very much. There were a lot of shocking revelations that came to light. Totally did not expect that ending.
Harper Adams has moved back home after quitting her job as a police officer in Little Rock , Ar. A little girl goes missing and it has similarities to her sister’s kidnapping. She runs into roadblocks every step of the way trying to help. To me it seemed like 90 % of the people in her hometown were total jerks.
I felt it had a slow start but in the second half it exploded into action. I’m so looking forward to the next book in this series.
Harper Adams has moved back home after quitting her job as a police officer in Little Rock , Ar. A little girl goes missing and it has similarities to her sister’s kidnapping. She runs into roadblocks every step of the way trying to help. To me it seemed like 90 % of the people in her hometown were total jerks.
I felt it had a slow start but in the second half it exploded into action. I’m so looking forward to the next book in this series.
April 14, 2024
This book is a great read. I didn’t want to put it down. Harper had to move home due to corruption at her old job. Her sisters best friends daughter goes missing in a similar way to her sister. She starts investigating and finds unlikely allies.
Really great read. Can’t wait to read more of the series!!!
Really great read. Can’t wait to read more of the series!!!
June 17, 2023
As this was my first time reading a book by Denise Grover Swank, I didn’t have any expectations. But holy shit! This was amazing! I’m a huge fan of thrillers/mysteries and this is now up there with the best of them.
June 1, 2025
I would say 3.5 stars. The story was good but the main lead v annoying! 😔
September 24, 2025
4.5 stars
This is the first book in the Harper Adams mystery series. Harper was a police detective, but was forced out of her job due to scandal. Now she has moved back home to Jackson Creek, Arkansas. Her father invited her to stay with them but Harper's mother is less than welcoming. Harper's younger sister, Andi, was kidnapped years ago and her mother has always blamed Harper. Now the daughter of Andi's childhood friend is missing and the two cases seem to be related.
Harper promises the child's mother that she will find her daughter, and she won't give up, even when it puts Harper back in the spotlight and possibly in the line of fire of a killer. This is the first book I've read by this author, but it's very suspenseful. There are plenty of suspects, but I guessed the wrong one. Harper is a flawed character, but one that you'll root for. There is some potential romance for Harper, but if so, it will be in a future book. This one focuses on Harper's past issues from Little Rock and the current kidnapping. I want to continue this series to find out what happens next for Harper.
I received a gifted copy of this book from the author, but my review is voluntary and unbiased.
This is the first book in the Harper Adams mystery series. Harper was a police detective, but was forced out of her job due to scandal. Now she has moved back home to Jackson Creek, Arkansas. Her father invited her to stay with them but Harper's mother is less than welcoming. Harper's younger sister, Andi, was kidnapped years ago and her mother has always blamed Harper. Now the daughter of Andi's childhood friend is missing and the two cases seem to be related.
Harper promises the child's mother that she will find her daughter, and she won't give up, even when it puts Harper back in the spotlight and possibly in the line of fire of a killer. This is the first book I've read by this author, but it's very suspenseful. There are plenty of suspects, but I guessed the wrong one. Harper is a flawed character, but one that you'll root for. There is some potential romance for Harper, but if so, it will be in a future book. This one focuses on Harper's past issues from Little Rock and the current kidnapping. I want to continue this series to find out what happens next for Harper.
I received a gifted copy of this book from the author, but my review is voluntary and unbiased.
August 1, 2025
This is the highly anticipated first book in a new series by D. G. Swank. For best reading experience I recommend to read the prequel, Probable Cause, currently free, first.
I will not spoiler here, only so much, Yass!!!! we'll meet James Skeeter Malcolm from the Rose Gardner Mystery Series.
Harper Adams is back home, let go from her job as Detective, newly single after a bad break-up, depressed and hitting rock bottom, she moved into her parents garage apartement. Having only one friend left.
And then it seems history reats itself when a little girl vanished. Harper is dertermined to find out what happened, using her skills as investigator. And barowner Malcolm repeatedly crosses her way. The man is a mystery to her. But occupied ith her own problems there isn't time for checking him.
Best definition is reluctant allies, both despise each other, need each other and don't get me started with the other citicens of the small town.
I read this book, cover to cover in one sitting. A read just as great as the other mystery series' es from this author. I recommend the book and mourn the wait til the next release. Harper is a winner and new fav read of mine.
I will not spoiler here, only so much, Yass!!!! we'll meet James Skeeter Malcolm from the Rose Gardner Mystery Series.
Harper Adams is back home, let go from her job as Detective, newly single after a bad break-up, depressed and hitting rock bottom, she moved into her parents garage apartement. Having only one friend left.
And then it seems history reats itself when a little girl vanished. Harper is dertermined to find out what happened, using her skills as investigator. And barowner Malcolm repeatedly crosses her way. The man is a mystery to her. But occupied ith her own problems there isn't time for checking him.
Best definition is reluctant allies, both despise each other, need each other and don't get me started with the other citicens of the small town.
I read this book, cover to cover in one sitting. A read just as great as the other mystery series' es from this author. I recommend the book and mourn the wait til the next release. Harper is a winner and new fav read of mine.
July 10, 2023
Firstly, Thank you Netgalley for this ARC of Little Girl Vanished by Denise Grover Swank.
One of my favourite genres include crime and mystery so best believe I was hooked from start to end. This was my first book to read by this author and let's just say that I am obsessed with Harper Adams as a character because the way she is just herself and does right by other people makes the story! Harper was a cop in Little Rock before a situation caused her to lose her job and move back home with her parents.
Little did we know that she would be faced with a kidnapping close to her heart. Who kidnapped her? Does it connect with her sister? Is she at fault? With every question you have, this book will answer them for you in the best and most in depth way. With help from a former crime boss, will Harper Adams uncover the crime?
All of the little twists and turns made the book for me because it kept me guessing and made me read pages and pages of the book in one sit in. Cannot wait for the next book in the series as well as many more of Denise Swanks books! And if you want a fast paced but amazingggg book, then this is the one for you.
One of my favourite genres include crime and mystery so best believe I was hooked from start to end. This was my first book to read by this author and let's just say that I am obsessed with Harper Adams as a character because the way she is just herself and does right by other people makes the story! Harper was a cop in Little Rock before a situation caused her to lose her job and move back home with her parents.
Little did we know that she would be faced with a kidnapping close to her heart. Who kidnapped her? Does it connect with her sister? Is she at fault? With every question you have, this book will answer them for you in the best and most in depth way. With help from a former crime boss, will Harper Adams uncover the crime?
All of the little twists and turns made the book for me because it kept me guessing and made me read pages and pages of the book in one sit in. Cannot wait for the next book in the series as well as many more of Denise Swanks books! And if you want a fast paced but amazingggg book, then this is the one for you.
June 23, 2023
I'm an avid reader who somehow has never read a book by Denise Grover Swank. A friend in my reading circle recommended LITTLE GIRL VANISHED and now I have a new author with an extensive back library to read. Ms Swank has done an excellent job of building complex characters and giving them lives they have to struggle through. Harper Adams finds herself living a life she could have never foreseen, yet strangely not too unhappy with it. When circumstances push her into helping with the investigation of a little girl missing, we meet (those of us who never read any of her books before meet) a character from another Grover Swank series who seems to have a story line of his own. The story is very good, the chracters very memorable and the fact that it's the first in a new series, an added plus. I'm pretty happy that my friend recommended this book to me. Now I'm recommending it to you. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
June 21, 2023
Little Girl Vanished by Denise Grover Swank is a gripping police investigation thriller that had me hooked from start to finish.
As the first installment in a new series, it offers a compelling introduction to the characters and settings. The story takes readers on a thrilling ride filled with unexpected twists and shocking turns that left me constantly guessing. The dynamic between the main characters, Harper Adams and James Malcolm, is intriguing, as they approach their work in different ways yet manage to complement each other perfectly.
Swank's writing skillfully maintains a high level of suspense, keeping readers engaged until the very end. While I had a hunch about the ending due to my familiarity with the genre, it didn't diminish my enjoyment of the book.
Overall, Little Girl Vanished is a well-crafted and enthralling read that fans of the genre will surely appreciate.
As the first installment in a new series, it offers a compelling introduction to the characters and settings. The story takes readers on a thrilling ride filled with unexpected twists and shocking turns that left me constantly guessing. The dynamic between the main characters, Harper Adams and James Malcolm, is intriguing, as they approach their work in different ways yet manage to complement each other perfectly.
Swank's writing skillfully maintains a high level of suspense, keeping readers engaged until the very end. While I had a hunch about the ending due to my familiarity with the genre, it didn't diminish my enjoyment of the book.
Overall, Little Girl Vanished is a well-crafted and enthralling read that fans of the genre will surely appreciate.
June 16, 2023
I received an arc copy of this book and I am soooo happy I was given the chance to read it early and give a review.
I have read every book by DGS and loved them all.
I read a lot of books - currently 400+ to read in my kindle. But if I don’t get captured by the 3rd chapter I give up.
This book more than met my expectations!! If I could give more than 5 ⭐️ I would.
I was drawn in before the end of Chapter 1. The story just flows and you can’t help liking/disliking the characters as they appear. Harper Adams is now a firm favourite of mine. She has had a lot to deal with in her life but is more than happy to help others.
So if you like her Rose Gardner books you will definitely enjoy this book (hopefully series) too.
I have read every book by DGS and loved them all.
I read a lot of books - currently 400+ to read in my kindle. But if I don’t get captured by the 3rd chapter I give up.
This book more than met my expectations!! If I could give more than 5 ⭐️ I would.
I was drawn in before the end of Chapter 1. The story just flows and you can’t help liking/disliking the characters as they appear. Harper Adams is now a firm favourite of mine. She has had a lot to deal with in her life but is more than happy to help others.
So if you like her Rose Gardner books you will definitely enjoy this book (hopefully series) too.
August 6, 2023
Little Girl Vanished is a quick, hard to put down mystery. I LOVE when a mystery keeps me on my toes with good writing, realistic characters and a crime that isn't easily figured out within the first few chapters. It has been hit or miss with these lately but man oh man was this one a hit.
Harper is such a great character. She is a hot mess, but with reason and you can't help but root for her. Pair her with Malcolm, who feels like he's on the morally gray side, and it's an interesting combination. One I really enjoyed. I need to find book 2 quick.
I also love when I find new authors. I haven't read anything by this author before, but now I want to go through the blacklist and catch up.
This is available now so mystery fans, go grab this one! Thank you, thank you to the author for the review copy and the signature plate! While I was provided a review copy, my opinions are my own.
Harper is such a great character. She is a hot mess, but with reason and you can't help but root for her. Pair her with Malcolm, who feels like he's on the morally gray side, and it's an interesting combination. One I really enjoyed. I need to find book 2 quick.
I also love when I find new authors. I haven't read anything by this author before, but now I want to go through the blacklist and catch up.
This is available now so mystery fans, go grab this one! Thank you, thank you to the author for the review copy and the signature plate! While I was provided a review copy, my opinions are my own.
October 11, 2025
4.5 stars
I both liked and disliked Harper, but that made her into a unusually dynamic main character. I wouldn't mind bingeing this series, but my current book service only had this first one and the following is refusing to show up. It's a bit annoying, to be honest.
I at least plan to return to Harper. Both to see what kind of mystery the author can come up with next, and to see how Harper will turn her life around.
I both liked and disliked Harper, but that made her into a unusually dynamic main character. I wouldn't mind bingeing this series, but my current book service only had this first one and the following is refusing to show up. It's a bit annoying, to be honest.
I at least plan to return to Harper. Both to see what kind of mystery the author can come up with next, and to see how Harper will turn her life around.
April 8, 2024
This is a pretty solid detective story! I really enjoyed the plot of the book as well as the characters and their back stories - they aren’t perfect, far from it, but they’re very interesting and complex. I wasn’t a fan of the ending, but it’s still a good book that had be questioning who’d done it until the very end
I’m excited to read book 2 of this series!
I’m excited to read book 2 of this series!
July 17, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley for providing this book.
I’m new to DGS, but I think I’m hooked now! I could not put this book down. I really needed to know what happened next and was truly trying to read it at any chance I had.
Harper Adams, a former police detective, finds herself wrapped up in a case of a missing child. This is because her sister was taken at a young age. Although decades apart, are these two cases connected? That is what Harper needs to figure out in order to find the missing child.
I did enjoy Harper’s character for the most part and am excited to see how she grows throughout the series. The ending was a little bit anticlimactic for me in certain aspects but at least it didn’t ruin the book completely for me.
I never got the chance to start a thriller series from the beginning right when it came out and am excited to follow this series!
I’m new to DGS, but I think I’m hooked now! I could not put this book down. I really needed to know what happened next and was truly trying to read it at any chance I had.
Harper Adams, a former police detective, finds herself wrapped up in a case of a missing child. This is because her sister was taken at a young age. Although decades apart, are these two cases connected? That is what Harper needs to figure out in order to find the missing child.
I did enjoy Harper’s character for the most part and am excited to see how she grows throughout the series. The ending was a little bit anticlimactic for me in certain aspects but at least it didn’t ruin the book completely for me.
I never got the chance to start a thriller series from the beginning right when it came out and am excited to follow this series!
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