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Since She's Been Gone
An emotionally charged, dual-timeline suspense set between L. A. and NYC, this debut novel is perfect for fans of The Last Thing He Told Me and Luckiest Girl Alive.
A clinical psychologist is thrown into her dark past as she races to uncover the truth about her mother's death while struggling with her own mental health.
Can we ever truly know the people we love?
Losing her mother to a hit-and-run at age 15 threw Beatrice “Beans” Bennett’s life into turmoil. Bereft, she developed a life-threatening eating disorder, and went through a challenging recovery process which paved the way for her work as a clinical psychologist decades later.
When a new patient arrives at her office and insists that Beans’s mother is still alive—and in danger—Beans is forced to revisit her past in order to uncover the truth. She learns the “patient” is a member of a notorious family that owns a drug company largely responsible for the national opioid epidemic, and that her mother was once tangled in their web. In a race against time—and her mother’s assailants—while once again facing the disorder she thought she’d put behind her, Beans discovers that, like herself, her mother had a devastating secret.
With its fast-moving, edge-of-your-seat action and intimate look at mental health, Since She’s Been Gone will keep readers in its grasp long after the last page.
A clinical psychologist is thrown into her dark past as she races to uncover the truth about her mother's death while struggling with her own mental health.
Can we ever truly know the people we love?
Losing her mother to a hit-and-run at age 15 threw Beatrice “Beans” Bennett’s life into turmoil. Bereft, she developed a life-threatening eating disorder, and went through a challenging recovery process which paved the way for her work as a clinical psychologist decades later.
When a new patient arrives at her office and insists that Beans’s mother is still alive—and in danger—Beans is forced to revisit her past in order to uncover the truth. She learns the “patient” is a member of a notorious family that owns a drug company largely responsible for the national opioid epidemic, and that her mother was once tangled in their web. In a race against time—and her mother’s assailants—while once again facing the disorder she thought she’d put behind her, Beans discovers that, like herself, her mother had a devastating secret.
With its fast-moving, edge-of-your-seat action and intimate look at mental health, Since She’s Been Gone will keep readers in its grasp long after the last page.
320 pages, Hardcover
First published February 6, 2024
32 people are currently reading
8741 people want to read
About the author
Sagit Schwartz
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 225 reviews
January 17, 2024
Twenty-six years ago, Beatrice ‘Beans’ Bennett lost her mother in a life altering hit-and-run accident. Unable to face her grief, Beans developed a devastating eating disorder. Seeing a world where she had little control, she exerted her own by not eating. As the months passed and her illness got worse, however, Beans found herself in the depths of a debilitating battle for her life. One that took her to a treatment center that would ultimately guide her towards her eventual career as a psychologist.
So when Beans is contacted by a new patient who is hoping to get squeezed into her day, she quickly says yes. After all, she’s been in her position and knows the value of therapy. What the woman has to say, however, has nothing to do with needing emotional support or advice. She tells the flabbergasted Beans that her mother, Irene, didn’t really die two and a half decades ago. On the contrary, she’s alive and well—but in a dangerous kind of trouble about which Beans needs to warn her.
As Beans starts to dig into the strange circumstances—including her fake patient—she discovers that the woman who visited her is part of an infamous family. Known for owning a drug company that had been behind the now crippling opioid epidemic, she can’t understand how her “patient” could be connected to her mother. Before long, however, it becomes all too clear that Irene had somehow become caught in their schemes. What did they want with her then? And why are they renewing their hunt for Irene now?
In a dangerous game of cat-and-mouse, Beans starts to hunt down the truth of what happened all those years ago. After all, the only way to make sense of the past and face her future is to come to terms with it all. Plus, what if her mother is truly alive? She just has to know. Along the way, though, the overwhelming disease that nearly cost Beans her life starts to make a terrifying return. Will she be able to outrun both her psychological demons as well as those chasing her in the streets? Or is it already too late for both Beans and—if she’s still really alive—Irene?
Wow. What a truly adrenaline-fueled yet emotional tale. From the outset, Since She’s Been Gone seemed to drip with poignancy, suspense, and unrivaled twists. Trust me when I say that this is not one that you’re likely to forget. After all, it had very real Alfred Hitchcock vibes with a breathtaking cat-and-mouse chase and one stunning double-cross after another.
Told via dual timelines that portrayed the epic race against time versus Beans’s hard-fought battle against her eating disorder decades ago, it was gripping to the extreme. Add in the short chapters and fast pace and this one kept me flipping the pages late into the night. I mean, I could’ve easily binged this in one day had I not had an actual life. Although, I do have to admit, there were quite a few chores I’ve overlooked for the past twenty-four hours.
The shining star in this dynamite debut, however, was twofold. Between the twists that morphed the story time and again and the raw, emotional view into anorexia, I was totally won over. Don’t get me wrong, there was a minor fly in the ointment as I had to suspend all disbelief to buy into the plot. Once I did that, however, I was spellbound for sure, only putting down the book when I was forced to (all the while kicking and screaming).
Between the moving family drama and the epic levels of suspense, this psychological thriller had all of the pieces to make a sure fire splash in the genre. Quite frankly, I’m shocked that this was Schwartz’s first foray and look forward to seeing what she comes up with next. So if you’re searching for your next book, look no further. Both wholly original, but also with plenty of the expected thrills and chills, Since She’s Been Gone will check every box, no doubt about it. Rating of 4 stars.
Note: Just be forewarned, if you have firsthand experience with an eating disorder or addiction, this book might hit just a bit too close to home. After all, it describes both all too clearly, even if it was done so in an honest and compassionate manner.
Thank you to Sagit Schwartz, Crooked Lane Books, NetGalley, and Thriller Book Lovers Promotions for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: February 6, 2024
Trigger warning: eating disorder, loss of a parent, self-harm, stalking, terminal cancer, kidnapping, miscarriage, mention of: drug addiction, heart failure, sudden death of a newborn
So when Beans is contacted by a new patient who is hoping to get squeezed into her day, she quickly says yes. After all, she’s been in her position and knows the value of therapy. What the woman has to say, however, has nothing to do with needing emotional support or advice. She tells the flabbergasted Beans that her mother, Irene, didn’t really die two and a half decades ago. On the contrary, she’s alive and well—but in a dangerous kind of trouble about which Beans needs to warn her.
As Beans starts to dig into the strange circumstances—including her fake patient—she discovers that the woman who visited her is part of an infamous family. Known for owning a drug company that had been behind the now crippling opioid epidemic, she can’t understand how her “patient” could be connected to her mother. Before long, however, it becomes all too clear that Irene had somehow become caught in their schemes. What did they want with her then? And why are they renewing their hunt for Irene now?
In a dangerous game of cat-and-mouse, Beans starts to hunt down the truth of what happened all those years ago. After all, the only way to make sense of the past and face her future is to come to terms with it all. Plus, what if her mother is truly alive? She just has to know. Along the way, though, the overwhelming disease that nearly cost Beans her life starts to make a terrifying return. Will she be able to outrun both her psychological demons as well as those chasing her in the streets? Or is it already too late for both Beans and—if she’s still really alive—Irene?
Wow. What a truly adrenaline-fueled yet emotional tale. From the outset, Since She’s Been Gone seemed to drip with poignancy, suspense, and unrivaled twists. Trust me when I say that this is not one that you’re likely to forget. After all, it had very real Alfred Hitchcock vibes with a breathtaking cat-and-mouse chase and one stunning double-cross after another.
Told via dual timelines that portrayed the epic race against time versus Beans’s hard-fought battle against her eating disorder decades ago, it was gripping to the extreme. Add in the short chapters and fast pace and this one kept me flipping the pages late into the night. I mean, I could’ve easily binged this in one day had I not had an actual life. Although, I do have to admit, there were quite a few chores I’ve overlooked for the past twenty-four hours.
The shining star in this dynamite debut, however, was twofold. Between the twists that morphed the story time and again and the raw, emotional view into anorexia, I was totally won over. Don’t get me wrong, there was a minor fly in the ointment as I had to suspend all disbelief to buy into the plot. Once I did that, however, I was spellbound for sure, only putting down the book when I was forced to (all the while kicking and screaming).
Between the moving family drama and the epic levels of suspense, this psychological thriller had all of the pieces to make a sure fire splash in the genre. Quite frankly, I’m shocked that this was Schwartz’s first foray and look forward to seeing what she comes up with next. So if you’re searching for your next book, look no further. Both wholly original, but also with plenty of the expected thrills and chills, Since She’s Been Gone will check every box, no doubt about it. Rating of 4 stars.
Note: Just be forewarned, if you have firsthand experience with an eating disorder or addiction, this book might hit just a bit too close to home. After all, it describes both all too clearly, even if it was done so in an honest and compassionate manner.
Thank you to Sagit Schwartz, Crooked Lane Books, NetGalley, and Thriller Book Lovers Promotions for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: February 6, 2024
Trigger warning: eating disorder, loss of a parent, self-harm, stalking, terminal cancer, kidnapping, miscarriage, mention of: drug addiction, heart failure, sudden death of a newborn
January 27, 2024
3.5 Stars
Beatrice Bennett's journey has been tough ever since she experienced the profound loss of her mother at the tender age of 15. This tragic event triggered an eating disorder within her, leading to years of struggle before she could regain healthier eating habits. Now, after decades have passed, Beatrice, who now works as a clinical psychologist, finds herself confronted with a new patient who firmly believes that her mother is not only alive but potentially in grave danger. Once again, Beatrice's world is upended as she races against time to uncover her mother's whereabouts and unravel the mysteries surrounding her unexpected departure.
The novel's primary focus lies on the topic of eating disorders (ED). However, there is some element of mystery sprinkled in. I would have preferred a better balance between the exploration of ED and the mystery elements. Nevertheless, this compelling story imparts valuable insights into mental health and eating disorders. I would recommend this novel to those seeking both themes.
***Thank you to NetGalley, Sagit Schwartz, and HighBridge Audio for graciously sending me the audiobook to review. As always, all thoughts are my own.***
Beatrice Bennett's journey has been tough ever since she experienced the profound loss of her mother at the tender age of 15. This tragic event triggered an eating disorder within her, leading to years of struggle before she could regain healthier eating habits. Now, after decades have passed, Beatrice, who now works as a clinical psychologist, finds herself confronted with a new patient who firmly believes that her mother is not only alive but potentially in grave danger. Once again, Beatrice's world is upended as she races against time to uncover her mother's whereabouts and unravel the mysteries surrounding her unexpected departure.
The novel's primary focus lies on the topic of eating disorders (ED). However, there is some element of mystery sprinkled in. I would have preferred a better balance between the exploration of ED and the mystery elements. Nevertheless, this compelling story imparts valuable insights into mental health and eating disorders. I would recommend this novel to those seeking both themes.
***Thank you to NetGalley, Sagit Schwartz, and HighBridge Audio for graciously sending me the audiobook to review. As always, all thoughts are my own.***
January 2, 2024
“Since She's Been Gone”" is my second book of the year and second debut. It's an excellent novel by an author I highly recommend.
The book delves into mental health issues, which always fascinate me. Patricia, also known as Beans, is a therapist who battled a severe eating disorder as a teenager and continues to struggle with it as an adult. The author cautions readers about the trigger warnings associated with the book.
This is the first book I've read that explores eating disorders in such extraordinary detail, and I found it quite insightful. It highlights the fact that eating disorders are severe illnesses that are extremely difficult to control.
This unusual thriller takes readers on an emotional roller coaster ride, resulting in a few moments of tears.
I received a complimentary ARC of this book through NetGalley from Crooked Lane Books. All opinions are my own and are left voluntary.
#SinceShesBeenGone #SagitSchwartz #CrookedLaneBooks #NetGalley #Debut #ARC #ReadersOfTheLateArc #TalkWordyToMe #UpcomingThriller #HonestReview #JustFinished #ComingSoon #ThrillerBookLoverPromotions ThrillerFriendsUnite #ThrillerObsessedBookishClub #LoveToRead #BookAddict #Bookstagrammer #BookReels #LoveBooks #ThrillerBookLovers #BookReview
The book delves into mental health issues, which always fascinate me. Patricia, also known as Beans, is a therapist who battled a severe eating disorder as a teenager and continues to struggle with it as an adult. The author cautions readers about the trigger warnings associated with the book.
This is the first book I've read that explores eating disorders in such extraordinary detail, and I found it quite insightful. It highlights the fact that eating disorders are severe illnesses that are extremely difficult to control.
This unusual thriller takes readers on an emotional roller coaster ride, resulting in a few moments of tears.
I received a complimentary ARC of this book through NetGalley from Crooked Lane Books. All opinions are my own and are left voluntary.
#SinceShesBeenGone #SagitSchwartz #CrookedLaneBooks #NetGalley #Debut #ARC #ReadersOfTheLateArc #TalkWordyToMe #UpcomingThriller #HonestReview #JustFinished #ComingSoon #ThrillerBookLoverPromotions ThrillerFriendsUnite #ThrillerObsessedBookishClub #LoveToRead #BookAddict #Bookstagrammer #BookReels #LoveBooks #ThrillerBookLovers #BookReview
August 15, 2024
3.5. I liked the main story well enough, a daughter wanting to understand her mother’s life. A mother who was said to have died in a hit and run when Margaret, called Beans, was in her early teens.
What I thought the author did a fantastic job in though, was her portrayal of a young girl with an eating disorder. How anorexia takes over a persons life, a voice that Is always there. For Beans hers started after she lost her mother and her story shows her fight for recovery. A recovery that never ends even though she is now a psychologist, the voice tries to intrude. After reading this I had a much better understanding of the how and why of this horrible disorder.
What I thought the author did a fantastic job in though, was her portrayal of a young girl with an eating disorder. How anorexia takes over a persons life, a voice that Is always there. For Beans hers started after she lost her mother and her story shows her fight for recovery. A recovery that never ends even though she is now a psychologist, the voice tries to intrude. After reading this I had a much better understanding of the how and why of this horrible disorder.
January 30, 2024
These days, Beatrice—better known as Beans—is a successful psychologist. As a teenager, though, her mother's unexpected death turned her life upside down, and she spent months in treatment for an eating disorder. She recovered, but ED is still by her side when things get tough...and now, her entire world has tilted on its axis. Beans's mother might still be alive.
Since She's Been Gone is a fast-paced read, shifting between past (eating disorder with a side of grief) and present (mystery with a side of eating disorder). The mystery takes place over quite a short time frame, only a few days—this helps keep things moving, though I think I would have preferred a longer time frame to better get to know some of the supporting characters, particularly Eddie,* her boyfriend.
But the book is doing a number of things that are unusual here. This is one of a very, very few books I've read in which the protagonist is an adult who has had and recovered from an eating disorder, and one of even fewer in which the character—and the author—is a therapist and has the language to discuss the disorder with knowledge, nuance, and (yay) a general lack of numbers. (If the author does not have personal history or extensive professional knowledge about eating disorders, I would be quite surprised.) This probably sounds like an odd thing to get hung up on, but take it from someone who has a niche reading interest or two—it's unusual, and it's well done.
The time jumps didn't work quite as well for me. It might be that I read the book all in one go, or that the chapters are relatively short, but the shifts in time, while consistent, always felt a bit choppy to me. Because the book avoids the cliché so well in the present-day mental health narrative, I'm also rather disappointed that it uses one of the bigger clichés in YA eating disorder fiction: no spoilers, but Emily and her storyline could be plucked from (or dropped into) any number of books set in treatment centres, and it would be hard to tell the difference. Not the end of the world in a story, but I'd like to know how Emily could have helped to drive that timeline in a less expected way.
I won't go into the mystery much (by the time I read the book, I had completely forgotten what was in the book description, which is just the way I like my mysteries), but I'll say that it seems inspired by the Sackler family—if that's not a rabbit hole you've ever gone down, have fun with Wikipedia! And then look up Nan Goldin, because while she has nothing to do with this book she's done some effective advocacy work on the subject.
*Not to be confused with ED
Thanks to the author and publisher for providing a review copy through NetGalley.
Since She's Been Gone is a fast-paced read, shifting between past (eating disorder with a side of grief) and present (mystery with a side of eating disorder). The mystery takes place over quite a short time frame, only a few days—this helps keep things moving, though I think I would have preferred a longer time frame to better get to know some of the supporting characters, particularly Eddie,* her boyfriend.
But the book is doing a number of things that are unusual here. This is one of a very, very few books I've read in which the protagonist is an adult who has had and recovered from an eating disorder, and one of even fewer in which the character—and the author—is a therapist and has the language to discuss the disorder with knowledge, nuance, and (yay) a general lack of numbers. (If the author does not have personal history or extensive professional knowledge about eating disorders, I would be quite surprised.) This probably sounds like an odd thing to get hung up on, but take it from someone who has a niche reading interest or two—it's unusual, and it's well done.
The time jumps didn't work quite as well for me. It might be that I read the book all in one go, or that the chapters are relatively short, but the shifts in time, while consistent, always felt a bit choppy to me. Because the book avoids the cliché so well in the present-day mental health narrative, I'm also rather disappointed that it uses one of the bigger clichés in YA eating disorder fiction: no spoilers, but Emily and her storyline could be plucked from (or dropped into) any number of books set in treatment centres, and it would be hard to tell the difference. Not the end of the world in a story, but I'd like to know how Emily could have helped to drive that timeline in a less expected way.
I won't go into the mystery much (by the time I read the book, I had completely forgotten what was in the book description, which is just the way I like my mysteries), but I'll say that it seems inspired by the Sackler family—if that's not a rabbit hole you've ever gone down, have fun with Wikipedia! And then look up Nan Goldin, because while she has nothing to do with this book she's done some effective advocacy work on the subject.
*Not to be confused with ED
Thanks to the author and publisher for providing a review copy through NetGalley.
December 31, 2023
What an incredible debut! I had been hearing such great things about this book and let me tell you, they are all true. This book is so bingeable, I just couldn’t put it down. Be warned though, there are some really tough subjects throughout the story. The author did such a great job writing them all with care and knowledge. It is an emotional roller coaster from start to finish, this so many twists and turns.
As a teenager, Beatrice lost her mother in a hit and run accident. It broke her completely and she ended up with an eating disorder, for which she was hospitalised. Years later, she is now a clinical psychologist. Her life is turned upside down when a new patient arrives and tells her that her mother is still alive and in danger.
This begins a wild and dangerous journey for Beatrice who is determined to learn the truth. She learns so much about her mother that she did not know, and finds herself up against some very powerful people.
This is a story of grief, family, mental health and so much more. You feel like you are on this emotional journey with the main character. My heart broke for her so many times and had me tearing up, which doesn’t happen very often in thrillers.
A book not to be missed, a massive thank you to Kristyn @delightfullybooked and Crooked Lane Books for sending me an early copy of this book to read. Published on February 6th, you need to get this on your TBR.
As a teenager, Beatrice lost her mother in a hit and run accident. It broke her completely and she ended up with an eating disorder, for which she was hospitalised. Years later, she is now a clinical psychologist. Her life is turned upside down when a new patient arrives and tells her that her mother is still alive and in danger.
This begins a wild and dangerous journey for Beatrice who is determined to learn the truth. She learns so much about her mother that she did not know, and finds herself up against some very powerful people.
This is a story of grief, family, mental health and so much more. You feel like you are on this emotional journey with the main character. My heart broke for her so many times and had me tearing up, which doesn’t happen very often in thrillers.
A book not to be missed, a massive thank you to Kristyn @delightfullybooked and Crooked Lane Books for sending me an early copy of this book to read. Published on February 6th, you need to get this on your TBR.
December 6, 2023
This book is absolutely breathtaking! I devoured this one so fast between work and family responsibilities. From page 1 you are mesmerized by the incredible writing and the intricate plot! The ending was amazing and made me cry happy tears. I love the dual timeline that got me so invested in the story that I just couldn’t put this book down!
I cannot believe that this is a debut; I highly recommend it!
*****Many thanks to Sagit Schwartz, Crooked Lane Books, and Thriller Book Lovers Promotions for my gifted copy in turn for an honest review.
I cannot believe that this is a debut; I highly recommend it!
*****Many thanks to Sagit Schwartz, Crooked Lane Books, and Thriller Book Lovers Promotions for my gifted copy in turn for an honest review.
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January 10, 2025I have been meaning to get to Since She's Been Gone by debut author Sagit Schwartz for quite some time now, and I'm glad I finally did! This had a nonstop fast-paced plot with plenty of reveals as well as a mysterious atmosphere the entire way through. I was glad the triggers were listed at the beginning of the book (Schwartz being a psychotherapist that isn't a surprise), and if you have triggers, I would definitely recommend checking them out ahead of time. I think I loved Lippman's blurb for this book the most, and the author certainly set her thriller apart from all the others out there. The focus on mental health and addiction is a huge aspect of the storyline, and it is approached with great care and respect.
The audiobook is narrated by Ann Sprinkle who is a new-to-me narrator, and I thought she did just an amazing job. She managed to harness all of the pain and emotions in the characters, especially Beatrice (Beans), and listening to her got me all emotional too. While I wasn't blown away like most readers were, I found this to be an incredibly solid debut with a lot of heart, twists, and a complex plotline. I still can't get over how much I learned about eating disorders from reading Since She's Been Gone, and if you want a smart and unique thriller that will instantly hook you, this is your gal!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
The audiobook is narrated by Ann Sprinkle who is a new-to-me narrator, and I thought she did just an amazing job. She managed to harness all of the pain and emotions in the characters, especially Beatrice (Beans), and listening to her got me all emotional too. While I wasn't blown away like most readers were, I found this to be an incredibly solid debut with a lot of heart, twists, and a complex plotline. I still can't get over how much I learned about eating disorders from reading Since She's Been Gone, and if you want a smart and unique thriller that will instantly hook you, this is your gal!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
January 24, 2024
This author could use a lesson in show not tell. The narrator provided entirely too many details about every little thing. Including one characters “noticeably small teeth.”
The story itself made me roll my eyes the entire time. Every single thing that could conveniently happen to ensure the MC found out what she needed to know to advance the story did happen. Over and over.
This was a miss for me and I probably wouldn’t go near anything else from this author.
Also, forgot to add the eating disorder plot line added nothing to the story and took up more time that the damn mystery.
The story itself made me roll my eyes the entire time. Every single thing that could conveniently happen to ensure the MC found out what she needed to know to advance the story did happen. Over and over.
This was a miss for me and I probably wouldn’t go near anything else from this author.
Also, forgot to add the eating disorder plot line added nothing to the story and took up more time that the damn mystery.
January 29, 2024
Thank you to Thriller Book Lover Promotions for the ARC!
Starting off, this book has a note from the author along with a list of trigger warnings; I think its important to read those before getting into this book.
Beatrice “Beans” Bennett lost her mother nearly twenty five years ago. In the aftermath of her mother’s car accident, Beans developed a devastating eating disorder. Though she spent time in treatment, she still struggles to keep it at bay. Now a clinical psychologist, she helps others with their own various recoveries. When a new patient visits her office early in the morning, insists Beans’ mother is still alive then leaves, Beans is forced to confront the past that caused her so much pain.
This book started off with a bang - literally, within the first few pages, life-changing information was dropped on Beans. And the suspense in this book didn’t let up until the very end. Told in dual timelines, we see Beans’ past unfold as she struggled with an eating disorder after her mother died. Meanwhile, in the present day, she starts on the dangerous path to finding out what really happened to her mother. Is she still alive, after all this time? And if so, why has she disappeared from Beans’ life?
It’s no secret that thrillers are my favorite, but this one was special. I don’t usually come across thrillers that have such an emotional component to them. My heart went out to Beans at all stages of her life; she truly did not have an easy time. It was not difficult to root for her and I can honestly say I loved both parts of the book equally (the past as well as present day timelines). Sagit Schwartz handled a lot of very sensitive topics with the utmost respect and presented them in a way that was both informative and worked well in the story. I literally binged this book in two sittings; the pacing was excellent and I couldn’t put it down!
For a debut, Sagit Schwartz knocked this out of the park.
“Since She’s Been Gone” releases February 6, 2024. This review will be shared to my instagram blog (@books_by_the_bottle) shortly.
Starting off, this book has a note from the author along with a list of trigger warnings; I think its important to read those before getting into this book.
Beatrice “Beans” Bennett lost her mother nearly twenty five years ago. In the aftermath of her mother’s car accident, Beans developed a devastating eating disorder. Though she spent time in treatment, she still struggles to keep it at bay. Now a clinical psychologist, she helps others with their own various recoveries. When a new patient visits her office early in the morning, insists Beans’ mother is still alive then leaves, Beans is forced to confront the past that caused her so much pain.
This book started off with a bang - literally, within the first few pages, life-changing information was dropped on Beans. And the suspense in this book didn’t let up until the very end. Told in dual timelines, we see Beans’ past unfold as she struggled with an eating disorder after her mother died. Meanwhile, in the present day, she starts on the dangerous path to finding out what really happened to her mother. Is she still alive, after all this time? And if so, why has she disappeared from Beans’ life?
It’s no secret that thrillers are my favorite, but this one was special. I don’t usually come across thrillers that have such an emotional component to them. My heart went out to Beans at all stages of her life; she truly did not have an easy time. It was not difficult to root for her and I can honestly say I loved both parts of the book equally (the past as well as present day timelines). Sagit Schwartz handled a lot of very sensitive topics with the utmost respect and presented them in a way that was both informative and worked well in the story. I literally binged this book in two sittings; the pacing was excellent and I couldn’t put it down!
For a debut, Sagit Schwartz knocked this out of the park.
“Since She’s Been Gone” releases February 6, 2024. This review will be shared to my instagram blog (@books_by_the_bottle) shortly.
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January 25, 2024
I'm going to warn you, it's been a long time since I've felt so many emotions reading a book. It's best to be prepared by keeping a box of tissues close to you at all times while reading this.
"Since She's Been Gone" by Sagit Schwartz is a powerful, multilayered, emotionally driven, and suspenseful thriller with heavy topics such as eating disorders (ED), drug addiction, the death of parents, and miscarriage. Thank you, Sagit Schwartz, for the eARC for review considerations. All opinions expressed below are mine alone.
"Since She's Been Gone" is written in dual timelines, with the main character, Bean's, teenage years and her current adult life.
A quick note about books written in a dual timeline format: I usually find that I'm only interested in one of the timelines. It's a rarity for me to find a dual timeline story where both are equally interesting. If one of the timelines is utterly boring or used as filler, it will ultimately affect the rating I give.
With that being said, I'm pleased to tell you with sincerity that this is not the case with "Since She's Been Gone." Both timelines hooked my attention and were valuable to the overall story. Bean's current timeline was suspenseful, powerful, fast-paced, and the love that her mother had for her is a bond no one can break. That's right! Cue tissues, please!
Now let's move on to the second timeline: the teenage years. Bean's teenage years had a large impact on me and opened my eyes to the demons that patients with ED have to endure on a daily basis. It's heartbreaking, but the childhood experience with recovery was very educational and made me dedicated to her character. With Schwartz's background as a licensed psychotherapist and having experienced ED and the loss of her own mother, she was able to capture and share in her writing exactly what someone would experience while going through the same. In other words, the character development was phenomenal.
Let's not forget that this book is classified as a thriller, and it certainly delivers that thrill. It's intense, suspenseful, and it will blow your socks off.
Overall, I highly recommend this book to both thriller lovers and contemporary fiction lovers. Especially if you are interested in learning more about eating disorders. Just remember to have a box of tissues handy.
"Since She's Been Gone" by Sagit Schwartz is a powerful, multilayered, emotionally driven, and suspenseful thriller with heavy topics such as eating disorders (ED), drug addiction, the death of parents, and miscarriage. Thank you, Sagit Schwartz, for the eARC for review considerations. All opinions expressed below are mine alone.
"Since She's Been Gone" is written in dual timelines, with the main character, Bean's, teenage years and her current adult life.
A quick note about books written in a dual timeline format: I usually find that I'm only interested in one of the timelines. It's a rarity for me to find a dual timeline story where both are equally interesting. If one of the timelines is utterly boring or used as filler, it will ultimately affect the rating I give.
With that being said, I'm pleased to tell you with sincerity that this is not the case with "Since She's Been Gone." Both timelines hooked my attention and were valuable to the overall story. Bean's current timeline was suspenseful, powerful, fast-paced, and the love that her mother had for her is a bond no one can break. That's right! Cue tissues, please!
Now let's move on to the second timeline: the teenage years. Bean's teenage years had a large impact on me and opened my eyes to the demons that patients with ED have to endure on a daily basis. It's heartbreaking, but the childhood experience with recovery was very educational and made me dedicated to her character. With Schwartz's background as a licensed psychotherapist and having experienced ED and the loss of her own mother, she was able to capture and share in her writing exactly what someone would experience while going through the same. In other words, the character development was phenomenal.
Let's not forget that this book is classified as a thriller, and it certainly delivers that thrill. It's intense, suspenseful, and it will blow your socks off.
Overall, I highly recommend this book to both thriller lovers and contemporary fiction lovers. Especially if you are interested in learning more about eating disorders. Just remember to have a box of tissues handy.
January 29, 2024
ARC audiobook provided in exchange for an honest review.
Ann Sprinkle does a wonderful job with the narration on this book! Her character voices are all distinct and it really helped to keep me engaged and a part of the story. The plot was very suspenseful and had so many twists! I know I would be a nervous wreck if someone showed up out of the blue and told me my mother was still alive and in danger! I really enjoyed how it was laid out with glimpses into her past when she was a teenager and struggling with an eating disorder. I would definitely recommend to anyone who likes mysteries and psychological thrillers!
Ann Sprinkle does a wonderful job with the narration on this book! Her character voices are all distinct and it really helped to keep me engaged and a part of the story. The plot was very suspenseful and had so many twists! I know I would be a nervous wreck if someone showed up out of the blue and told me my mother was still alive and in danger! I really enjoyed how it was laid out with glimpses into her past when she was a teenager and struggling with an eating disorder. I would definitely recommend to anyone who likes mysteries and psychological thrillers!
February 7, 2024
I started this book and didn't want to put it down. I loved the dual timelines, the heavy subject material, the sleuthing, and the way the mystery unfolded. I learned so much and was rooting for Beans every step of the way.
This book is sectioned into multiple parts with dual timelines and quick chapters. It makes it so easy to get lost in the pages! I was completely enthralled with the past timeline with Beans at the treatment center where she was getting care for her anorexia. I feel like there is a lot of media around eating disorders, but my perception of what they actually are was so false. It was extremely evident that Schwartz did her research. The information was factual and non-judgmental. It was presented in such a perfect way and I was so connected to Beans and her struggles.
The present timeline was action-packed and I didn't want to miss a word. It was super fast-moving and so much happened in such a short period of time. There was a bit of suspension of belief with the current timeline, but I was totally here for it. I always love when I have all the pieces of a puzzle but can't quite work it out and Schwartz did an amazing job bringing us to the conclusion and putting everything together.
I'm totally impressed that this is a debut! There are incredible things for Schwartz on the horizon and I will without question be picking up anything she writes!
Thank you to Thriller Book Lovers Promotions and Crooked Lane Books for the novel.
This book is sectioned into multiple parts with dual timelines and quick chapters. It makes it so easy to get lost in the pages! I was completely enthralled with the past timeline with Beans at the treatment center where she was getting care for her anorexia. I feel like there is a lot of media around eating disorders, but my perception of what they actually are was so false. It was extremely evident that Schwartz did her research. The information was factual and non-judgmental. It was presented in such a perfect way and I was so connected to Beans and her struggles.
The present timeline was action-packed and I didn't want to miss a word. It was super fast-moving and so much happened in such a short period of time. There was a bit of suspension of belief with the current timeline, but I was totally here for it. I always love when I have all the pieces of a puzzle but can't quite work it out and Schwartz did an amazing job bringing us to the conclusion and putting everything together.
I'm totally impressed that this is a debut! There are incredible things for Schwartz on the horizon and I will without question be picking up anything she writes!
Thank you to Thriller Book Lovers Promotions and Crooked Lane Books for the novel.
January 11, 2024
This one won’t be the read for everyone, but if you can get through the TWs, you’ll enjoy the story!
Beatrice lost her mother when she was fifteen, and ended up developing an eating disorder shortly after. The book provides dual timelines so you are discovering the journey Beatrice was on from an early time in her life, and catching up with what’s happening now. Beatrice was a great character and I was rooting for her from the start.
I wouldn’t call this an edge of your seat thriller, but the slow suspense and intrigue will surely keep you entertained. I would recommend this read!
Thank you to the author & publisher for the gifted ARC
Beatrice lost her mother when she was fifteen, and ended up developing an eating disorder shortly after. The book provides dual timelines so you are discovering the journey Beatrice was on from an early time in her life, and catching up with what’s happening now. Beatrice was a great character and I was rooting for her from the start.
I wouldn’t call this an edge of your seat thriller, but the slow suspense and intrigue will surely keep you entertained. I would recommend this read!
Thank you to the author & publisher for the gifted ARC
November 24, 2023
"𝑨𝒈𝒂𝒊𝒏? 𝑴𝒚 𝒎𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒊𝒔 𝒂𝒍𝒊𝒗𝒆 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒊𝒏 𝒕𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒃𝒍𝒆 𝒂𝒈𝒂𝒊𝒏?"
➡️ swipe for synopsis 👉🏼
Wow.....wow. WOW!
This book 👏🏼blew. 👏🏼me. 👏🏼away! This is probably the first thriller that's had an emotional hold on me throughout the book. It deals with some very serious and very triggering topics (both mentally and physically). It also deals with some very prominent current topics.
PLEASE check the trigger ⚠️ warnings at the beginning of this book!
This was such a suspenseful book😲. It's starts with a BANG💥! Beatrice "Beans" has a "vlient" drop some shocking news on her - then literally RUN AWAY😱! Then, the story hits the ground running. It's a constant cat🐈 and mouse🐁 game for Beans that goes across the United States🌎, while she's trying to find out if her mom is actually dead - or possibly still alive. If she IS alive, she needs to tell her it's not safe......but she needs to find out why because why would her mom not be safe?! All this happens while Beans is trying not only to stay alive, but trying to keep her boyfriend and his daughter safe from harms way.
I literally BINGED this book. It's fast paced, and very well written. The ending made me tear 🥺 up a bit with the thoughts of if this happened to me and my mom. The whole story is the cruel reality for many people out there. I hope this books shares that there is hope!🫶🏻
QOTD ❓️⁉️❓️ What was the last book that moved you emotionally?
.
.
.
#thrillerbooks #suspensethriller #thrillerreader #thrillerlover #thrillerobsessed #bookrecs #bookreview #bookstagram #bookaholic #booklover #bookstagrammer #booklove #bookcommunity #bookobsessed #bookworm #booksbooksbooks #booksofig #booksofinstagram #bookish #bookishfeatures #tbr #tbrpile #bookbuzz #mysteryandthrills #BookstaBFF23 #thrillerbooklovers #sinceshesbeengone #SagitSchwartz
#triggerwarning
#emotionalthriller
.
➡️ swipe for synopsis 👉🏼
Wow.....wow. WOW!
This book 👏🏼blew. 👏🏼me. 👏🏼away! This is probably the first thriller that's had an emotional hold on me throughout the book. It deals with some very serious and very triggering topics (both mentally and physically). It also deals with some very prominent current topics.
PLEASE check the trigger ⚠️ warnings at the beginning of this book!
This was such a suspenseful book😲. It's starts with a BANG💥! Beatrice "Beans" has a "vlient" drop some shocking news on her - then literally RUN AWAY😱! Then, the story hits the ground running. It's a constant cat🐈 and mouse🐁 game for Beans that goes across the United States🌎, while she's trying to find out if her mom is actually dead - or possibly still alive. If she IS alive, she needs to tell her it's not safe......but she needs to find out why because why would her mom not be safe?! All this happens while Beans is trying not only to stay alive, but trying to keep her boyfriend and his daughter safe from harms way.
I literally BINGED this book. It's fast paced, and very well written. The ending made me tear 🥺 up a bit with the thoughts of if this happened to me and my mom. The whole story is the cruel reality for many people out there. I hope this books shares that there is hope!🫶🏻
QOTD ❓️⁉️❓️ What was the last book that moved you emotionally?
.
.
.
#thrillerbooks #suspensethriller #thrillerreader #thrillerlover #thrillerobsessed #bookrecs #bookreview #bookstagram #bookaholic #booklover #bookstagrammer #booklove #bookcommunity #bookobsessed #bookworm #booksbooksbooks #booksofig #booksofinstagram #bookish #bookishfeatures #tbr #tbrpile #bookbuzz #mysteryandthrills #BookstaBFF23 #thrillerbooklovers #sinceshesbeengone #SagitSchwartz
#triggerwarning
#emotionalthriller
.
July 21, 2025
Solid mystery thriller that pulled me in from the first pages! Accurate ED rep with a separate spotlight on the opioid crisis and big pharma. I thoroughly enjoyed the writing and the story. Looking forward to more from this author!
August 15, 2023
I didn't like the writing style of this at all. There was no suspense, just a great deal of 'telling'. this happened and then this happened and then this happened.
DNF
DNF
January 21, 2024
Since She’s Been Gone by Sagit Schwartz ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Beatrice’s mother’s death when she was fifteen through her life in turmoil and kicked off her experience with an eating disorder. Now, in recovery and a psychologist, she meets a new patient who insists her mother is alive and in trouble.
This was an easy and fast paced read. Usually any thriller that dabbles with politics is slow for me, but this one wasn’t at all. I found the way eating disorders were portrayed as very unique and likely very realistic, as the author is a psychotherapist. I enjoyed the chapters in the past but the main story line took place in the present, which was very active and fast paced. I did found some parts unbelievable, but I can always forgive that if I’m entertained.
“That’s the problem with secrets. They don’t stay in small corners. They permeate the air, smoldering until they engulf everything like a Malibu fire.”
Since She’s Been Gone comes out 2/6.
Beatrice’s mother’s death when she was fifteen through her life in turmoil and kicked off her experience with an eating disorder. Now, in recovery and a psychologist, she meets a new patient who insists her mother is alive and in trouble.
This was an easy and fast paced read. Usually any thriller that dabbles with politics is slow for me, but this one wasn’t at all. I found the way eating disorders were portrayed as very unique and likely very realistic, as the author is a psychotherapist. I enjoyed the chapters in the past but the main story line took place in the present, which was very active and fast paced. I did found some parts unbelievable, but I can always forgive that if I’m entertained.
“That’s the problem with secrets. They don’t stay in small corners. They permeate the air, smoldering until they engulf everything like a Malibu fire.”
Since She’s Been Gone comes out 2/6.
January 10, 2024
Thank you to @crookedlanebooks for my finished copy of Since She’s Been Gone! I had heard nothing but great things about this and #booksta was right!
First off, I am still shocked at the fact that this is a debut?! I binged this and only put it down once to sleep. It hooked me right away! There are so many hard topics in this and yet, they are all handled with such care. It’s rare to read a story about ED (eating disorders) and to have it be so completely accurate. I suffered from anorexia growing up and this was 100% beyond true. It made me feel all of the emotions, but happy ones too.
Beans goes through so much in this novel, and her character is believable and her actions totally understandable. I cannot imagine what she had to go through and all the information she finds out. The opioid epidemic is something we have all probably been touched by and adding it to the suspense of the story really made this read cinematically. I cannot wait for more Schwartz!
First off, I am still shocked at the fact that this is a debut?! I binged this and only put it down once to sleep. It hooked me right away! There are so many hard topics in this and yet, they are all handled with such care. It’s rare to read a story about ED (eating disorders) and to have it be so completely accurate. I suffered from anorexia growing up and this was 100% beyond true. It made me feel all of the emotions, but happy ones too.
Beans goes through so much in this novel, and her character is believable and her actions totally understandable. I cannot imagine what she had to go through and all the information she finds out. The opioid epidemic is something we have all probably been touched by and adding it to the suspense of the story really made this read cinematically. I cannot wait for more Schwartz!
February 10, 2024
Since She’s Been Gone is an intense, masterfully plotted thriller about a clinical psychologist who is racing to uncover the truth about her mother’s death while struggling with her own mental health. It’s a dual-timeline thriller about a psychologist who learns the mom she lost to a hit-and-run twenty-six years before might still be alive and keeping dangerous secrets. It goes back and forth in time from when she was a fifteen-year-old girl in residential treatment for an eating disorder to the present. A supposed patient shows up at her office and tells her that her mother is still alive and in danger.
This book touches on themes of love, loss, and resilience, but one of the things I have a great interest in, for many reasons, is eating disorders. There are so many books that center around eating disorders in YA, but not so much in adult literature. Historically, the media and entertainment industry haven’t done a great job with representation, and frequently, it's been sensationalized, glamorized, or viewed as aspirational because of the weight loss aspect. The author does a great job focusing on eating disorders and mental health. But that’s just one of the many threads. It’s also a thrilling mystery about disappearance, family, secrets, and lies. Since You’ve Been Gone will grab readers by the throat and keep you in its grasp long after the final page.
To listen to my interview with the author, go to my podcast at: https://www.momsdonthavetimetoreadboo...
This book touches on themes of love, loss, and resilience, but one of the things I have a great interest in, for many reasons, is eating disorders. There are so many books that center around eating disorders in YA, but not so much in adult literature. Historically, the media and entertainment industry haven’t done a great job with representation, and frequently, it's been sensationalized, glamorized, or viewed as aspirational because of the weight loss aspect. The author does a great job focusing on eating disorders and mental health. But that’s just one of the many threads. It’s also a thrilling mystery about disappearance, family, secrets, and lies. Since You’ve Been Gone will grab readers by the throat and keep you in its grasp long after the final page.
To listen to my interview with the author, go to my podcast at: https://www.momsdonthavetimetoreadboo...
March 3, 2024
There is nothing redeemable about this book. No suspense, no twists, no meaningful subplot, nothing believable or in the realm of possibility. The writing is poor and is all Tell and no Show, which is a tedious style to read.
The chapters flip flop between Now - with the ludicrous storyline of the main character and her mother and, Then - discussing the main character’s eating disorder. The eating disorder “plot” does nothing to further or enrich the book. It almost felt as if it were forced to be included - it was so strange.
Also - everything the main character had to do to glean information magically and conveniently worked out time and time again? Get serious.
I hated this book so much. And maybe you’re asking, “Anna, why didn’t you just stop reading?” I can’t - it’s a strange compulsion. Maybe I’ll write a bad thriller and jam in my inability to stop reading shitty books as a weak subplot.
The chapters flip flop between Now - with the ludicrous storyline of the main character and her mother and, Then - discussing the main character’s eating disorder. The eating disorder “plot” does nothing to further or enrich the book. It almost felt as if it were forced to be included - it was so strange.
Also - everything the main character had to do to glean information magically and conveniently worked out time and time again? Get serious.
I hated this book so much. And maybe you’re asking, “Anna, why didn’t you just stop reading?” I can’t - it’s a strange compulsion. Maybe I’ll write a bad thriller and jam in my inability to stop reading shitty books as a weak subplot.
January 28, 2024
Since She's Been Gone is an impressive debut that blew me away.
I have been anticipating this book since I first heard about it ages ago. I sat on it for months. I have a habit of "saving" my favorite things, my most anticipated things.
With release day coming up, the saving had to stop.
This was an emotional journey, as eating disorders, specifically anorexia, were a big part of the story.
I appreciated the honesty and vulnerability that was front and center as the MC battled her demons. This was secondary to the main story but was so well done, I sometimes forgot that wasn't the main point. The eating disorder was so well developed, it was like it's own character.
The thriller part of the story is very action packed, and very intense. This book has been likened to The Last Thing He Told Me and that is a fitting comparison.
This was a fantastic debut!
I have been anticipating this book since I first heard about it ages ago. I sat on it for months. I have a habit of "saving" my favorite things, my most anticipated things.
With release day coming up, the saving had to stop.
This was an emotional journey, as eating disorders, specifically anorexia, were a big part of the story.
I appreciated the honesty and vulnerability that was front and center as the MC battled her demons. This was secondary to the main story but was so well done, I sometimes forgot that wasn't the main point. The eating disorder was so well developed, it was like it's own character.
The thriller part of the story is very action packed, and very intense. This book has been likened to The Last Thing He Told Me and that is a fitting comparison.
This was a fantastic debut!
February 6, 2024
Beatrice “Beans” Bennett was 15-years-old when she lost her mother in a hit-and-run accident. The loss she felt caused her to develop an eating disorder, which after a long recovery process, she was able to channel into becoming a clinical psychologist. When a patient turns up at her office saying her mother is still alive, and in danger, Beans will stop at nothing to find her.
Schwartz’s debut novel was fast paced and kept me on the edge of my seat. The dual timelines and short chapters made this book a page turner that I didn’t want to put down. It was interesting how she incorporated Beans’ ED (eating disorder) throughout the book, and the past chapters were very eye opening.
The present day chapters touched on tough topics including the opioid crisis which were very impactful in the way Schwartz wrote them. The twists and turns kept me guessing throughout, and I really had no idea how it would all come together. This action packed book is a must read for thriller lovers, and I can’t wait to see what Schwartz comes up with next.
I listened to the audiobook which was narrated by Ann Sprinkle. This was my first book narrated by her, and I thought she did a fantastic job of bringing Beans and her story to life.
Thank you to the author, Thriller Book Lovers Promotions, Crooked Lane Books, and HighBridge Audio for advanced copies in exchange for my honest review.
Schwartz’s debut novel was fast paced and kept me on the edge of my seat. The dual timelines and short chapters made this book a page turner that I didn’t want to put down. It was interesting how she incorporated Beans’ ED (eating disorder) throughout the book, and the past chapters were very eye opening.
The present day chapters touched on tough topics including the opioid crisis which were very impactful in the way Schwartz wrote them. The twists and turns kept me guessing throughout, and I really had no idea how it would all come together. This action packed book is a must read for thriller lovers, and I can’t wait to see what Schwartz comes up with next.
I listened to the audiobook which was narrated by Ann Sprinkle. This was my first book narrated by her, and I thought she did a fantastic job of bringing Beans and her story to life.
Thank you to the author, Thriller Book Lovers Promotions, Crooked Lane Books, and HighBridge Audio for advanced copies in exchange for my honest review.
February 14, 2024
If you’re in the mood for a dual timeline, suspenseful thriller with plenty of twists and turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat, you’re going to want to check this one out.
I binged it in a day and was wholly invested in both the main character’s search for the truth about her mother, as well as the emotional deep dive into her own dark past that this search triggers.
This was such an impressive debut and I look forward to reading more from Sagit Schwartz!
I listened to the audiobook and thought Ann Sprinkle did an outstanding job capturing the suspenseful atmosphere and bringing the main character Beatrice to life.
Thanks to the author and HighBridge Audio for the ALC!
I binged it in a day and was wholly invested in both the main character’s search for the truth about her mother, as well as the emotional deep dive into her own dark past that this search triggers.
This was such an impressive debut and I look forward to reading more from Sagit Schwartz!
I listened to the audiobook and thought Ann Sprinkle did an outstanding job capturing the suspenseful atmosphere and bringing the main character Beatrice to life.
Thanks to the author and HighBridge Audio for the ALC!
February 15, 2024
This unusual suspense took me on an emotional ride while reading it. It is a debut novel that the author used her professional experience to implement her knowledge of eating disorders, sprinkled with a mystery, twists, and turns that kept me turning pages. I'm looking forward to reading her future books too.
November 9, 2023
Beatrice also know as "Beans" is a strong character throughout this book. She lost her mother at age 15 and has since struggled with an eating disorder. Beans soon discovers that her mother had some secrets in her past. The story has dual timelines, current and past. The writing is amazing and keeps the reader engaged. Bean sums up her mom in the end, even though she wasn't perfect, she tried to protect me. That was her legacy. I was born, and I was loved. That was my privilege. Fast paced, edge of your seat, and an emotional read! 4 stars!
Thanks to NetGalley for the advanced copy. This book is available 2/6/24.
Thanks to NetGalley for the advanced copy. This book is available 2/6/24.
November 2, 2023
Beatrice “Beans” Bennett was 15 years old when her mother was killed in a hit-and-run accident, sending Beans into a tailspin and on a path to a lifelong battle against ED (eating disorder). Now an adult firmly in recovery, Beans is stunned when a mysterious woman tells her not only is her mother still alive, but she’s in grave danger and needs Beans’s help. As Beans races to find out the truth about her mother, she finds herself down a rabbit hole of secrets, lies, and addiction, all linked to a goliath pharmaceutical company responsible for the opioid crisis.
This dual timeline story will keep you on the edge of your seat as Beans searches for answers about what really happened to her mother in the present while her struggle against anorexia in the past breaks your heart. The writing is raw and emotional, and the author tackles some incredibly difficult topics with honesty and compassion. The mystery is tense and propulsive, but the poignant family drama and skillful mental health representation gripped me even more. Please read with care if ED, addiction, and miscarriage are triggers for you.
Oh, and did I mention this is a debut novel? Sagit Schwartz is definitely one to watch in this genre!
Many thanks to NetGalley, Crooked Lane Books, and Thriller Book Lovers Promotions for providing me an advance copy of this book.
This dual timeline story will keep you on the edge of your seat as Beans searches for answers about what really happened to her mother in the present while her struggle against anorexia in the past breaks your heart. The writing is raw and emotional, and the author tackles some incredibly difficult topics with honesty and compassion. The mystery is tense and propulsive, but the poignant family drama and skillful mental health representation gripped me even more. Please read with care if ED, addiction, and miscarriage are triggers for you.
Oh, and did I mention this is a debut novel? Sagit Schwartz is definitely one to watch in this genre!
Many thanks to NetGalley, Crooked Lane Books, and Thriller Book Lovers Promotions for providing me an advance copy of this book.
October 10, 2023
I always thought I was a person who could ignore pretty much all trigger warnings. So, if you’re like me please don’t do that with this book. This book was HEAVYYY but in the end I did think it was so worth it.
If you are a Lucinda Berry fan, I think this is a PERFECT recommendation for you.
I was rooting for this main character more than I have probably rooted for most. This book also had me experiencing SO MANY dang emotions. I was angry, I was happy, I was SAD. I seriously think this is in my top 5 hardest cries for books… and it’s a thriller?? That’s how you know the book was good.
This was a great debut novel and I can’t wait to read more by this author.
If you are a Lucinda Berry fan, I think this is a PERFECT recommendation for you.
I was rooting for this main character more than I have probably rooted for most. This book also had me experiencing SO MANY dang emotions. I was angry, I was happy, I was SAD. I seriously think this is in my top 5 hardest cries for books… and it’s a thriller?? That’s how you know the book was good.
This was a great debut novel and I can’t wait to read more by this author.
January 2, 2025
The bad guys in this book are quite clearly based on the Sacklers, but the Sacklers are evil in the normal way very wealthy drug manufacturers are. The family in this book is cartoonishly evil and I could not suspend my disbelief enough for that. The two timelines are not well integrated and so neither is the ED storyline. I'm not one to get too fussy about "show, don't tell," but the amount of telling is pretty egregious. I found the ending silly. There's the bones of something good her, but this author needs a stronger editor for her second novel.
July 5, 2023
I really enjoyed this book! The dual timeline kept the pace going & made me not want to put it down. Check your TW for eating disorders with this one as it is heavily covered. I would definitely recommend!
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