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Vanished
Maggie knows someone wants to hurt her daughter. So why will no-one help?
Single mother Maggie Conner struggles to raise her young daughter, Isabel, in a household ruled by her own abusive father.
Terrified for Isabel’s safety, Maggie realises that neither her cold, distant mother nor anyone else in town seem willing to help them.
Then Isabel starts to disappear for long periods, returning with no idea of where she has been or why.
And when Maggie tries to get outside help, doctors and psychologists seem strangely reluctant to get involved in Isabel’s case. Is someone threatening them so they’ll stay away?
Desperate to save her daughter, Maggie searches for answers. But the more she digs, the more she is forced to confront the secrets buried deep in her own past.
As Maggie’s whole world begins to unravel, can she find the strength to face the terrifying truth?
Vanished – a gritty psychological thriller that’s dripping with intrigue.
Single mother Maggie Conner struggles to raise her young daughter, Isabel, in a household ruled by her own abusive father.
Terrified for Isabel’s safety, Maggie realises that neither her cold, distant mother nor anyone else in town seem willing to help them.
Then Isabel starts to disappear for long periods, returning with no idea of where she has been or why.
And when Maggie tries to get outside help, doctors and psychologists seem strangely reluctant to get involved in Isabel’s case. Is someone threatening them so they’ll stay away?
Desperate to save her daughter, Maggie searches for answers. But the more she digs, the more she is forced to confront the secrets buried deep in her own past.
As Maggie’s whole world begins to unravel, can she find the strength to face the terrifying truth?
Vanished – a gritty psychological thriller that’s dripping with intrigue.
368 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 20, 2023
571 people are currently reading
532 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews
October 2, 2023
OMG!
What on earth have I just read? An emotionally disturbed young mother living with a couple of deranged parents. A physically and mentally abusive father plus a frequently catatonic mother - the original family from Hell? The young mother, Maggie, struggles to care for her daughter, a child who almost never leaves the house. The neighbours are sympathetic to her plight but seem unable to offer any pragmatic help to the "drowning" Maggie. The end comes as no great surprise but this is a dark and disturbing tale of family abuse and mental breakdown . I think I now need to lie down in a darkened room and process my thoughts. My next book needs to be something light and very amusing.
What on earth have I just read? An emotionally disturbed young mother living with a couple of deranged parents. A physically and mentally abusive father plus a frequently catatonic mother - the original family from Hell? The young mother, Maggie, struggles to care for her daughter, a child who almost never leaves the house. The neighbours are sympathetic to her plight but seem unable to offer any pragmatic help to the "drowning" Maggie. The end comes as no great surprise but this is a dark and disturbing tale of family abuse and mental breakdown . I think I now need to lie down in a darkened room and process my thoughts. My next book needs to be something light and very amusing.
August 14, 2023
Wow! Thank you NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this book. What a wild ride, a true psychological thriller (with a tip to the side of paranormal thriller). You know what’s going on, or at least most of it at the beginning of the book. You ride the emotional rollercoaster with Maggie as she unravels what is going on in her life. You feel sympathy for her, you get mad at her, you want her to open her eyes and her ears to take in what is really going on around her. As the story goes on, you take in the “gaps” of her memory, and again, although you as the reader know essentially what is going on, are captivated and waiting for the moment she catches on,
I will definitely be looking to read more from the author.
I will definitely be looking to read more from the author.
June 6, 2024
The title to this book was deceptive. I was expecting a kidnapped child and thus pushed this back on my quest to read all of Theo’s books. This book was interesting. A woman and her child are forced to live with her abusive parents. The father was downright cruel. As the story continues, we are left with glaring hints. I think these hints should have been left out as it somewhat spoiled the book. Still, the story was interesting and I’m off to see which of Theo’s books I haven’t read!
August 24, 2023
I received a free copy of, Vanished by, Theo Baxter, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Maggie Conner has one child Isabel, she grew up in a toxic environment and wants better for her daughter, but when she goes missing, will Maggie be able to find her daughter. This is a great read for Halloween, its so chilling, and a little bit crazy. I was never sure what was going to happen from one page to the next.
August 24, 2023
Well, I was not expecting that! When I first started this, I wonder what the heck was going on and if would I enjoy it.
Then it kicked off, and I could see the twist clear as the day. The MC, however, couldn't or wouldn't. It was then intense book as you wonder was the twist true or were we as crazy as we are led to believe the MC is!?
Gah, you can't know anything about this book before going in. You can't. Everything was a surprise to me. I didn't know what the book was about, I just had the title and the book.
This is by far my favourite book by Baxter. I was definitely Mary in this book wanting to shake Maggie and give her the hard and heartbreaking truth. I had to watch from the sidelines just mine everyone else.
I was hooked from the start and I didn't get enough opportunities to get back to it as quickly as I wanted to. It's dark and deceptive. It had you shouting for answers and yet holding back as you know the answers will change everything.
It was just bloody fantastic!!!
Then it kicked off, and I could see the twist clear as the day. The MC, however, couldn't or wouldn't. It was then intense book as you wonder was the twist true or were we as crazy as we are led to believe the MC is!?
Gah, you can't know anything about this book before going in. You can't. Everything was a surprise to me. I didn't know what the book was about, I just had the title and the book.
This is by far my favourite book by Baxter. I was definitely Mary in this book wanting to shake Maggie and give her the hard and heartbreaking truth. I had to watch from the sidelines just mine everyone else.
I was hooked from the start and I didn't get enough opportunities to get back to it as quickly as I wanted to. It's dark and deceptive. It had you shouting for answers and yet holding back as you know the answers will change everything.
It was just bloody fantastic!!!
August 22, 2023
When the book starts Maggie and her parents and daughter Isabell are sitting down having breakfast you immediately learn her father is very verbally abusive, dismissive and an all-around narcissist. The mom says nothing she floats around the house almost as a non-entity they are seemingly forcing Maggie to redo a Victorian era home all by herself with multiple floors and multiple wings and let’s not even get into the changing structure of the house. Maggie is very much a helicopter mom or perhaps we should invent a new word like a birthmark mom a mom who is never further away than her child’s birthmark but either way she doesn’t want Isabell out of her sight and it seems Isabell is a sweet child until she starts not being so sweet and saying mean things that sound as if she’s learning it from… You guessed it Maggie‘s father. when Maggie sets out to try and get help for little Isabel at one of her small town village doctors everyone she speaks to listens sympathetically but when she mentions her name and the trouble in the Home immediately say they cannot help and hang up on her she even tries to take little Isabell and leave but eventually in the midst of leaving she turns around and little Isabell is gone, only to come back home and see her father John had her. If this sounds like a strange story then you’re right it is very much so and for the first four or five chapters I was a tad bit confused but then I had an aha moment it was like I know what’s going on here for a few more chapters I was like maybe I don’t know what’s going on and by the end I was like wow I never would’ve guessed that! Oh yes and let me not leave out the fact that someone mentions that Maggie is a recluse but is she a recluse or does her dad not let her leave the home? She also is fearful of the crying wroom… And wants her daughter Maggie to stay far away from it this was one strange book that ultimately just confused me because right when I thought she was going to get all the answers I just added another layer of confuse meant. I love Theo Baxter books unlock this phone most of the way through and I still recommend it because I noticed a lot of other people absolutely loved it and I didn’t dislike it at all I just can’t decide whether I love it or not. I gave it three stars but that was after waffling between three and four but either way I still totally recommend it please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 21, 2023
A Disappointment in Disguise
"Vanished" by Theo Baxter, published by Inkubator Books, left me feeling unfulfilled and dissatisfied. From the deceptive cover to the misleading blurb, this book failed to live up to the expectations it initially set.
At first glance, the front cover and blurb suggested a tale of dark mystery, a missing child, and a family torn apart by secrets. However, as I delved into the story, it became clear that these elements were nothing more than a facade, designed to draw readers in. The reality of "Vanished" turned out to be quite different from what I had been led to believe.
The narrative follows Maggie, a young mother to eight-year-old Isabel. Maggie's past is marred by an abusive father and a tumultuous teenage relationship that led to her daughter's birth. As the plot unfolds, Maggie's increasing paranoia takes center stage, overshadowing any potential for a gripping mystery. Her descent into irrational fear and obsession dominates the storyline, making it difficult to invest in the characters or their struggles.
Predictability plagued the book's progression, with the central plot becoming apparent to me by the time I had barely begun reading. Despite my hopes for a surprising twist or a revelation that would redeem the story, I found myself disappointed by the book's lack of originality.
The characters' development, particularly Maggie's, felt incomplete and disjointed. Her actions and reactions were often difficult to comprehend, given the circumstances. Equally perplexing was the town's response to Maggie's concerns, including the strange behavior of her neighbors and the local priest. These interactions failed to ring true, further distancing me from the narrative.
While the book held potential, the execution fell flat. The author's heavy-handed foreshadowing detracted from any sense of mystery, and the lack of subtlety in revealing crucial plot points left much to be desired. Instead of allowing readers to engage in deciphering the puzzle, the story felt like a mere recitation of events that were evident from the beginning.
In conclusion, "Vanished" by Theo Baxter, published by Inkubator Books, was a disappointment from start to finish. Its misrepresentation through the cover and blurb, along with its failure to deliver a compelling mystery, left me unsatisfied. While the concept had promise, the execution and character development needed significant improvement. I want to express gratitude to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with the opportunity to read this book, even though my experience with it was ultimately disappointing.
"Vanished" by Theo Baxter, published by Inkubator Books, left me feeling unfulfilled and dissatisfied. From the deceptive cover to the misleading blurb, this book failed to live up to the expectations it initially set.
At first glance, the front cover and blurb suggested a tale of dark mystery, a missing child, and a family torn apart by secrets. However, as I delved into the story, it became clear that these elements were nothing more than a facade, designed to draw readers in. The reality of "Vanished" turned out to be quite different from what I had been led to believe.
The narrative follows Maggie, a young mother to eight-year-old Isabel. Maggie's past is marred by an abusive father and a tumultuous teenage relationship that led to her daughter's birth. As the plot unfolds, Maggie's increasing paranoia takes center stage, overshadowing any potential for a gripping mystery. Her descent into irrational fear and obsession dominates the storyline, making it difficult to invest in the characters or their struggles.
Predictability plagued the book's progression, with the central plot becoming apparent to me by the time I had barely begun reading. Despite my hopes for a surprising twist or a revelation that would redeem the story, I found myself disappointed by the book's lack of originality.
The characters' development, particularly Maggie's, felt incomplete and disjointed. Her actions and reactions were often difficult to comprehend, given the circumstances. Equally perplexing was the town's response to Maggie's concerns, including the strange behavior of her neighbors and the local priest. These interactions failed to ring true, further distancing me from the narrative.
While the book held potential, the execution fell flat. The author's heavy-handed foreshadowing detracted from any sense of mystery, and the lack of subtlety in revealing crucial plot points left much to be desired. Instead of allowing readers to engage in deciphering the puzzle, the story felt like a mere recitation of events that were evident from the beginning.
In conclusion, "Vanished" by Theo Baxter, published by Inkubator Books, was a disappointment from start to finish. Its misrepresentation through the cover and blurb, along with its failure to deliver a compelling mystery, left me unsatisfied. While the concept had promise, the execution and character development needed significant improvement. I want to express gratitude to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with the opportunity to read this book, even though my experience with it was ultimately disappointing.
November 4, 2023
This story was longer than it needed to be. Like a lot. Would have been better if it was shorter. Although the plot twists were very interesting and unexpected they felt a bit too surreal for me. The writing style didn't captivate me but if you enjoy slow paced thrillers with interesting storylines you might enjoy this one.
August 25, 2023
Let me start off by saying that I found the title and synopsys quite misleading. The story is not about a vanishing child or even about the child disappearing for long etc. It's more about the mom being worried about her daughter's mental state and trying to get them both out of the abusive household they live in.
For the next part of the review, there might be a big spoiler, but I'm not sure if it actually is one or if we're supposed to know very early on (like at 13% it was quite obvious and became increasingly obvious, but if you want to go in with absolutely no knowledge of anything, skip the rest of the review).
So I don't understand if we're supposed to know from the beginning that the family is dead or if it's supposed to be a plot twist. If so, it was made evidently clear super early on. It took me 13% to realize it so I'm either very slow or too quick, I'm not sure since the synopsis and title give off down-to-earth, no supernatural involved vibes. The question isn't really what's wrong with the kid but more what happened to the parents and has the kid ever existed at all.
I'm obsessed with gothic novels and stories with someone living in a mysterious dark atmosphere house, so I really enjoyed this, even if I wasn't sure what the author's intentions were. Though I have to say the scenes in the house felt a bit repetitive, even if it was the goal (since she's stuck and everything). There wasn't an escalation or evolution, it just felt like the same task over and over but without showing a significant importance around said task ; I'm explaining it poorly but I mean that even if the task is the same, she herself feels the same too, the stuff happening are the same, etc. I would have liked a more progressive deterioration of things, the house, the characters, the doubts, the renovation, so we could see it evolve and not just have our MMC go from totally oblivious to solving the entire puzzle in a minute (I'm exagerating a little).
I absolutely loved the neighbours and outside interactions, people trying to get her help. It was interesting to see how she flips whatever is thrown at her to match her delusions. That was my favorite part really, seeing how the stuff people say have a double meaning and how she persists to find it so it doesn't disrupt her psychosis.
While I read the whole thing, I kept thinking about how this book would make an insane movie. If the "plot twist that may not be a plot twist" was made less obvious, it'd be a fantastic thriller/horror movie.
I thought it really lacked in physical description. By the end of the book I reflected on it and realized I never really had a clear image of the characters in my head, their hair color might have been mentioned for some of them but not their facial features, eye color, etc, even for the MMC's parents and kid, who are always around.
Anyway I'd still recommend this book, despite all the negative stuff I said I really liked reading it, it has those gothic, psychological confusion vibes I'm crazy for.
[received an ARC copy and am giving this review freely, it's my own opinion]
For the next part of the review, there might be a big spoiler, but I'm not sure if it actually is one or if we're supposed to know very early on (like at 13% it was quite obvious and became increasingly obvious, but if you want to go in with absolutely no knowledge of anything, skip the rest of the review).
So I don't understand if we're supposed to know from the beginning that the family is dead or if it's supposed to be a plot twist. If so, it was made evidently clear super early on. It took me 13% to realize it so I'm either very slow or too quick, I'm not sure since the synopsis and title give off down-to-earth, no supernatural involved vibes. The question isn't really what's wrong with the kid but more what happened to the parents and has the kid ever existed at all.
I'm obsessed with gothic novels and stories with someone living in a mysterious dark atmosphere house, so I really enjoyed this, even if I wasn't sure what the author's intentions were. Though I have to say the scenes in the house felt a bit repetitive, even if it was the goal (since she's stuck and everything). There wasn't an escalation or evolution, it just felt like the same task over and over but without showing a significant importance around said task ; I'm explaining it poorly but I mean that even if the task is the same, she herself feels the same too, the stuff happening are the same, etc. I would have liked a more progressive deterioration of things, the house, the characters, the doubts, the renovation, so we could see it evolve and not just have our MMC go from totally oblivious to solving the entire puzzle in a minute (I'm exagerating a little).
I absolutely loved the neighbours and outside interactions, people trying to get her help. It was interesting to see how she flips whatever is thrown at her to match her delusions. That was my favorite part really, seeing how the stuff people say have a double meaning and how she persists to find it so it doesn't disrupt her psychosis.
While I read the whole thing, I kept thinking about how this book would make an insane movie. If the "plot twist that may not be a plot twist" was made less obvious, it'd be a fantastic thriller/horror movie.
I thought it really lacked in physical description. By the end of the book I reflected on it and realized I never really had a clear image of the characters in my head, their hair color might have been mentioned for some of them but not their facial features, eye color, etc, even for the MMC's parents and kid, who are always around.
Anyway I'd still recommend this book, despite all the negative stuff I said I really liked reading it, it has those gothic, psychological confusion vibes I'm crazy for.
[received an ARC copy and am giving this review freely, it's my own opinion]
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 21, 2023
First, I want to thank Theo Baxter, Inkubator Books and Zooloo Book Tours for providing me with this book so I can bring you this review.
WOW!! Theo Baxter you totally threw me for a loop with your latest psychological thriller Vanished! My head is still spinning and left me totally jaw dropping speechless! My mind has been blown with all the wicked and I mean wicked twists and turns. This is one book I had no clue how it would end.
Right off the bat I started yelling at my Kindle! Ohh how I hated that the father fat shamed his daughter in front of his granddaughter! His words and actions got worse as the book went on! I never loathed anyone so much in a book as I did him!
This is a book that makes you think and second guess everything. There were so many secrets that were hidden from the readers that when they came into focus I was like oh snap! The climatic ending will have you speechless!
Theo Baxter in my honest opinion should have had a trigger warning on this book for domestic abuse and mental health issues. Some of the scenes were quite violent.
If you are a fan of paranormal then you are in for a treat! In all honesty this was not the book that I thought it was going to be. I didn't really love it not really but I didn’t hate it either.
WOW!! Theo Baxter you totally threw me for a loop with your latest psychological thriller Vanished! My head is still spinning and left me totally jaw dropping speechless! My mind has been blown with all the wicked and I mean wicked twists and turns. This is one book I had no clue how it would end.
Right off the bat I started yelling at my Kindle! Ohh how I hated that the father fat shamed his daughter in front of his granddaughter! His words and actions got worse as the book went on! I never loathed anyone so much in a book as I did him!
This is a book that makes you think and second guess everything. There were so many secrets that were hidden from the readers that when they came into focus I was like oh snap! The climatic ending will have you speechless!
Theo Baxter in my honest opinion should have had a trigger warning on this book for domestic abuse and mental health issues. Some of the scenes were quite violent.
If you are a fan of paranormal then you are in for a treat! In all honesty this was not the book that I thought it was going to be. I didn't really love it not really but I didn’t hate it either.
September 1, 2023
Just when you thought you'd read the best from Baxter he comes back with this blinder!
The cover creeped me out big time, I half expected Pennywise to pop up at some point. And Isabel, I would have been terrified if my child suddenly started talking in the way she was. I'm assuming the author is a lover of a good horror, as his portrayal of Isabel was brilliant.
Vanished is dark, dramatic and is definitely one that makes you think as to what's going on - it took me a while, but I got there in the end.
An unputdownable psychological thriller with a huge splash of horror - perfect!
The cover creeped me out big time, I half expected Pennywise to pop up at some point. And Isabel, I would have been terrified if my child suddenly started talking in the way she was. I'm assuming the author is a lover of a good horror, as his portrayal of Isabel was brilliant.
Vanished is dark, dramatic and is definitely one that makes you think as to what's going on - it took me a while, but I got there in the end.
An unputdownable psychological thriller with a huge splash of horror - perfect!
August 15, 2023
First it caught my attention because of the cover, and if you judge a book by it, you wouldn't go wrong with this one. Vanished is a book I loved from start to finish. The dark and unpredictable plot kept me attentive and expectant throughout the reading, and made me try to guess what was going on, but keeping all the time doubting my predictions. A perfect mix of suspense, horror and drama. I would recommend it without hesitation, especially to those who enjoy the creepy kid trope.
January 20, 2024
One thing is certain: I’ve never read a book quite like this one before!
We are following Maggie who lives with her abusive Father, her timid mother and her 8 year old daughter whom she is trying to raise under the same roof but without the trauma her father inflicted upon her own childhood.
This book is wild and although I kind of guessed what was going on early in the story, I still kept doubting myself throughout. It is definitely slow going to start and could be a tad shorter as it gets repetitive at times but I definitely think it’s one that will stay in my mind for a while! A unique premise with an author who isn’t afraid to really get stuck into a storyline.
Thank you to netgalley and the publisher and author for my ARC to review!
We are following Maggie who lives with her abusive Father, her timid mother and her 8 year old daughter whom she is trying to raise under the same roof but without the trauma her father inflicted upon her own childhood.
This book is wild and although I kind of guessed what was going on early in the story, I still kept doubting myself throughout. It is definitely slow going to start and could be a tad shorter as it gets repetitive at times but I definitely think it’s one that will stay in my mind for a while! A unique premise with an author who isn’t afraid to really get stuck into a storyline.
Thank you to netgalley and the publisher and author for my ARC to review!
January 16, 2024
Absolutely amazing read. I thankfully have gotten back into reading and this was an awesome one to start with. There wasn't a moment in time where I didn't wonder what was going to happen next. This book kept me on my toes every chapter
November 4, 2023
I really liked this one. Although, I found the end was quite sudden and abruptly finished.
Even though, I was starting to realise certain things, it still had me wanting to know the next twist.
Even though, I was starting to realise certain things, it still had me wanting to know the next twist.
March 6, 2025
This book just kept on going on and on, didn't it?
September 6, 2023
Vanished is a psychological thriller with a paranormal twist. Based on the blurb and the cover, I wasn't expecting the twist, but as soon as I started reading, it was pretty obvious, at least to me. However, that does not detract from the book in any way, at least for me. I love paranormal stuff, so this was a pleasant surprise. If that's not your thing, though, you may not enjoy this as much as I did.
The story follows Maggie, a young woman who is dealing with a lot. Like, a lot. She lives at home with her parents and her 8-year old daughter, Isabel. But her life is far from idyllic. Her father is abusive, her mother is barely functioning, and her daughter has mood swings that would make anyone dizzy. But Maggie has learned to deal with her dysfunctional family, for the most part.
When Isabel starts having medical issues, Maggie is determined to get help from a doctor. But no one seems to want to help. She knows it's because her father owns the town and has paid everyone off so he can have complete control over what goes on in his house. But is that really what's going on?
The more Maggie tries to reach out, the more she realizes things aren't exactly what they seem. Her entire world is about to come crashing down around her, but will she be strong enough to survive?
I found this to be a pretty quick read. It was relatively obvious what was really going on almost from the very beginning. But there were a few times where I started to second-guess things, and Maggie's father was a bit of a conundrum for a little while. But when the reveal happened, I was like, "Yep. Called it."
The one thing that did irk me was Maggie. I get why she was in denial. I get why she refused to see what was right in front of her face, if you will. But still, her inability to process things and whatnot started to get super frustrating after a while. That's really the only thing I had an issue with. But I also did understand why she was the way she was. I guess I just wish things had been a bit more subtle and mysterious.
If you're into psychological thrillers with a paranormal twist, give this one a shot. You just might enjoy it.
4 stars!
The story follows Maggie, a young woman who is dealing with a lot. Like, a lot. She lives at home with her parents and her 8-year old daughter, Isabel. But her life is far from idyllic. Her father is abusive, her mother is barely functioning, and her daughter has mood swings that would make anyone dizzy. But Maggie has learned to deal with her dysfunctional family, for the most part.
When Isabel starts having medical issues, Maggie is determined to get help from a doctor. But no one seems to want to help. She knows it's because her father owns the town and has paid everyone off so he can have complete control over what goes on in his house. But is that really what's going on?
The more Maggie tries to reach out, the more she realizes things aren't exactly what they seem. Her entire world is about to come crashing down around her, but will she be strong enough to survive?
I found this to be a pretty quick read. It was relatively obvious what was really going on almost from the very beginning. But there were a few times where I started to second-guess things, and Maggie's father was a bit of a conundrum for a little while. But when the reveal happened, I was like, "Yep. Called it."
The one thing that did irk me was Maggie. I get why she was in denial. I get why she refused to see what was right in front of her face, if you will. But still, her inability to process things and whatnot started to get super frustrating after a while. That's really the only thing I had an issue with. But I also did understand why she was the way she was. I guess I just wish things had been a bit more subtle and mysterious.
If you're into psychological thrillers with a paranormal twist, give this one a shot. You just might enjoy it.
4 stars!
September 24, 2023
First of all, can we just take a minute to appreciate this front cover!!
The contrast between the dull and dark background and the bright red balloon is really striking (and we all know what that balloon reminds us of!!) - but also the hints that this is going to involve a child - pretty creepy already!
This is also the third of Theo's books that I've read and I literally cannot get enough!
The writing style is amazing - it totally hooks you in right from the start and and for me, I just can't put it down as the tension remains high throughout.
Single mum, Maggie, is struggling to bring up her daughter, Isabel and nobody seems to want to give her a break, even her own parents.
When Isabel starts to disappear and she returns with no memory of the event, Maggie seeks outside help for her, again with no joy.
Maggie was a really interesting character to explore. The emotions and stresses of keeping her child safe and trying to work out what the heck was going on with her, made her completely relatable and I could really feel her pain. Added to this were the complications of her own past and childhood and the continuing family issues of living with her abusive father still.
I loved the way that Isabel's disappearances and lack of memory were written and dealt with. There were times when I thought it could be easily explained - then it would all feel rather sinister again.
This was full of dark secrets and tense moments with a really creepy atmosphere throughout.
I loved the twists and turns which kept me on edge and guessing the truth.
Another brilliant read and am looking forward to my next one by this author....
The contrast between the dull and dark background and the bright red balloon is really striking (and we all know what that balloon reminds us of!!) - but also the hints that this is going to involve a child - pretty creepy already!
This is also the third of Theo's books that I've read and I literally cannot get enough!
The writing style is amazing - it totally hooks you in right from the start and and for me, I just can't put it down as the tension remains high throughout.
Single mum, Maggie, is struggling to bring up her daughter, Isabel and nobody seems to want to give her a break, even her own parents.
When Isabel starts to disappear and she returns with no memory of the event, Maggie seeks outside help for her, again with no joy.
Maggie was a really interesting character to explore. The emotions and stresses of keeping her child safe and trying to work out what the heck was going on with her, made her completely relatable and I could really feel her pain. Added to this were the complications of her own past and childhood and the continuing family issues of living with her abusive father still.
I loved the way that Isabel's disappearances and lack of memory were written and dealt with. There were times when I thought it could be easily explained - then it would all feel rather sinister again.
This was full of dark secrets and tense moments with a really creepy atmosphere throughout.
I loved the twists and turns which kept me on edge and guessing the truth.
Another brilliant read and am looking forward to my next one by this author....
August 14, 2023
Vanished by Theo Baxter.
Maggie knows someone wants to hurt her daughter. So why will no-one help?
Single mother Maggie Conner struggles to raise her young daughter, Isabel, in a household ruled by her own abusive father.
Terrified for Isabel’s safety, Maggie realises that neither her cold, distant mother nor anyone else in town seem willing to help them.
Then Isabel starts to disappear for long periods, returning with no idea of where she has been or why.
And when Maggie tries to get outside help, doctors and psychologists seem strangely reluctant to get involved in Isabel’s case. Is someone threatening them so they’ll stay away?
Desperate to save her daughter, Maggie searches for answers. But the more she digs, the more she is forced to confront the secrets buried deep in her own past.
As Maggie’s whole world begins to unravel, can she find the strength to face the terrifying truth?
Omg. Theo has done it again. Absolutely brilliant. Twisty and gripping. I loved Maggie. I had a theory but I was partly right. Very surprising. Love this author. 5*.
Maggie knows someone wants to hurt her daughter. So why will no-one help?
Single mother Maggie Conner struggles to raise her young daughter, Isabel, in a household ruled by her own abusive father.
Terrified for Isabel’s safety, Maggie realises that neither her cold, distant mother nor anyone else in town seem willing to help them.
Then Isabel starts to disappear for long periods, returning with no idea of where she has been or why.
And when Maggie tries to get outside help, doctors and psychologists seem strangely reluctant to get involved in Isabel’s case. Is someone threatening them so they’ll stay away?
Desperate to save her daughter, Maggie searches for answers. But the more she digs, the more she is forced to confront the secrets buried deep in her own past.
As Maggie’s whole world begins to unravel, can she find the strength to face the terrifying truth?
Omg. Theo has done it again. Absolutely brilliant. Twisty and gripping. I loved Maggie. I had a theory but I was partly right. Very surprising. Love this author. 5*.
September 1, 2023
This book was a shockingly great surprise! It is fully of mystery and suspense. This book will take you on a wild ride! As you read the book, you’re along for the ride. Things seem odd, but it’s easy to brush off the oddities. It isn’t until there is a little nugget that dropped does your whole world turn upside down! I know others said that they saw the twist clear as day, but I absolutely did not. Which, for me, makes the book more enjoyable. Baxter writes these characters that leap off the page whether you like them or hate them. I enjoyed reading about the neighbors willing to help Maggie, even if Maggie thought they weren’t being helpful. It was also nice to see Maggie’s progression towards the end of the story. I don’t want to say more than that because I don’t want to give anything away. It is a quick and easy read, and any thriller fan will enjoy this book!
September 1, 2023
The sense of foreboding throughout this story was intense. I welled up a few times as I could see what was ahead but Maggie couldn't.
The constant feeling of sadness and worry was woven into every word and I was hoping Maggie would push past her denial. To be trapped like that with no clear way to escape would be terrifying and drain everything from you. I liked seeing Maggie notice little things and work out her plan to be free.
I struggled with the hospital chapters, I didn't understand the attitude shown? Also, I felt the ending was a little rushed and thought that it would take more time than it did.
Overall, a haunting story that is packed with pain, guilt, and struggles, but also love and protection.
*I received a complimentary copy of the e-book from Zooloo's Book Tours and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
The constant feeling of sadness and worry was woven into every word and I was hoping Maggie would push past her denial. To be trapped like that with no clear way to escape would be terrifying and drain everything from you. I liked seeing Maggie notice little things and work out her plan to be free.
I struggled with the hospital chapters, I didn't understand the attitude shown? Also, I felt the ending was a little rushed and thought that it would take more time than it did.
Overall, a haunting story that is packed with pain, guilt, and struggles, but also love and protection.
*I received a complimentary copy of the e-book from Zooloo's Book Tours and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
August 28, 2023
Maggie Conner must keep her daughter Isabel safe. Someone wants to hurt Isabel, but no-one is listening or willing to help Maggie. When Isabel starts to disappear, not for long but long enough for Maggie to be worried. Where is Isabel going and who with? Maggie starts searching for answers, but that means she must face her past and secrets that have been buried for years. Will Maggie be able to face the truth, that might help Isabel or will it be to much for her. That's all I will saying, as I don't do spoilers. Theo's has done it again with this brilliant, gripping, intriguing and twisted story.
August 30, 2023
I really don’t know where to start, I went into this blind, actually thought it sounded like a thriller, not sure if it was or not. It was incredible, the storyline was nuts, yes. But somehow it worked and even though it was madness, it had my attention till the very last page. I had ideas on where the author was going with this, oh my, I was so wrong. I do have questions that didn’t get answered, but I kinda like that, this book holds a mysterious key to me. I can’t really say much more, because I don’t want to give away anything.
Well and WOW, it was a complete shock to what I was reading but it was superb.
Well and WOW, it was a complete shock to what I was reading but it was superb.
August 28, 2023
Wow! I started this book thinking what the heck is going on and wondering if it was for me. After a few chapters though I realised it definitely was!
The twist was easy to spot quite early on, but due to Maggie not realising what was happening it went on for the majority of the book. Or did it? I was left wondering was I the crazy one, was Maggie, or both or neither? I was gripped throughout this and flew through it.
As much as what Maggie's character went through I loved her and how strong and resilient she was to protect her daughter. Mothers are definitely not to be messed with.
The twist was easy to spot quite early on, but due to Maggie not realising what was happening it went on for the majority of the book. Or did it? I was left wondering was I the crazy one, was Maggie, or both or neither? I was gripped throughout this and flew through it.
As much as what Maggie's character went through I loved her and how strong and resilient she was to protect her daughter. Mothers are definitely not to be messed with.
October 25, 2023
Odd
Not really sure about this book,was she mad,or had a breakdown,found the book far to long and got board smiled a third of it just read the end
Not really sure about this book,was she mad,or had a breakdown,found the book far to long and got board smiled a third of it just read the end
March 10, 2024
Got a bit boring and a little predictable but did keep me wanting to know what was happening. Dragged on a little bit.
May 9, 2024
This book was very dragged out. I found myself speed reading. Good plot, slightly predictable.
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August 30, 2023
In a dysfunctional household, a larger-than-life father doubles as a narcissist, while a mother silently endures the abuse. Maggie and her daughter, Isabel, reside with them. Maggie is thrust into the task of refurbishing their sizable house, amidst the ongoing turmoil. These circumstances take a toll on Maggie, affecting her both physically and mentally.
This is my initial encounter with this author's work, and I must express my appreciation for the narrative style. Right from the opening page, an aversion to the father, Joseph Conner, is cultivated. His verbal and physical abuse affects everyone at home, with Helena Connor, her mother, bearing the brunt of it. Isabel, a charming 8-year-old, adds a touch of innocence to the scenario. Maggie appears trapped in her role as caretaker for both her parents and her inability to fulfill normal maternal duties becomes evident, even in times of serious illness. Joseph's restrictions confine her and she yearns for a reason to escape with Isabel.
Lana and Mary stand out as characters who offer sympathy to Maggie, each in their own unique way. The character development remains consistent and unwavering throughout the narrative.
Although I had a sense of where the story might lead, the conclusion was very different from my expectations. The plot possesses intricate layers, akin to a roller-coaster ride. Unforeseen twists and turns keep the reader engaged. Ultimately, the narrative unveils a plethora of secrets, leaving one to contemplate the series of events.
All in all, the plot is cleverly crafted, provoking numerous inquiries and ensuring swift page-turning. I can only describe it as compelling, thrilling, and intricate. A 4/5 star read.
This is my initial encounter with this author's work, and I must express my appreciation for the narrative style. Right from the opening page, an aversion to the father, Joseph Conner, is cultivated. His verbal and physical abuse affects everyone at home, with Helena Connor, her mother, bearing the brunt of it. Isabel, a charming 8-year-old, adds a touch of innocence to the scenario. Maggie appears trapped in her role as caretaker for both her parents and her inability to fulfill normal maternal duties becomes evident, even in times of serious illness. Joseph's restrictions confine her and she yearns for a reason to escape with Isabel.
Lana and Mary stand out as characters who offer sympathy to Maggie, each in their own unique way. The character development remains consistent and unwavering throughout the narrative.
Although I had a sense of where the story might lead, the conclusion was very different from my expectations. The plot possesses intricate layers, akin to a roller-coaster ride. Unforeseen twists and turns keep the reader engaged. Ultimately, the narrative unveils a plethora of secrets, leaving one to contemplate the series of events.
All in all, the plot is cleverly crafted, provoking numerous inquiries and ensuring swift page-turning. I can only describe it as compelling, thrilling, and intricate. A 4/5 star read.
August 31, 2023
WARNING: This book may be a trigger for some people as it deals with themes of physical and mental abuse and mental health.
Vanished is a rather brilliant book. Maggie Connor lives in a small town in New York State. She lives with her elderly parents, Joseph and Helena, and with her 8-year-old daughter, Isabel. Joseph is abusive to his wife and daughter and Maggie struggles to hide this from her daughter. Someone is threatening Isabel and Maggie must stop this from happening.
This book is unusual in the way the lead character, Maggie, narrates the story. Some of the time things are not quite what they first appear to be and her confusion and sense of fear is tangible through the well-written text. The characters are very lifelike and realistic and we fully understand why they react the way they do throughout this story.
It really is the cliché of an edge-of-your-seat page-turner in the way that I hated when I had to stop reading and take a break. I wanted to know what was going to happen next. There is a great deal of action and reaction in Vanished and it holds the reader's attention throughout, from the very first page.
I will be reading more from Theo Baxter as soon as I am able as his style is gripping, with a good pace and flowing narrative. It is set in America, but is not full of American slang, making it very accessible to British or other non-US English speaking readers. I highly recomment this book.
Vanished is a rather brilliant book. Maggie Connor lives in a small town in New York State. She lives with her elderly parents, Joseph and Helena, and with her 8-year-old daughter, Isabel. Joseph is abusive to his wife and daughter and Maggie struggles to hide this from her daughter. Someone is threatening Isabel and Maggie must stop this from happening.
This book is unusual in the way the lead character, Maggie, narrates the story. Some of the time things are not quite what they first appear to be and her confusion and sense of fear is tangible through the well-written text. The characters are very lifelike and realistic and we fully understand why they react the way they do throughout this story.
It really is the cliché of an edge-of-your-seat page-turner in the way that I hated when I had to stop reading and take a break. I wanted to know what was going to happen next. There is a great deal of action and reaction in Vanished and it holds the reader's attention throughout, from the very first page.
I will be reading more from Theo Baxter as soon as I am able as his style is gripping, with a good pace and flowing narrative. It is set in America, but is not full of American slang, making it very accessible to British or other non-US English speaking readers. I highly recomment this book.
October 3, 2023
WoW, this book was so good I forgot what time it was.....Vanished by
Theo Baxter gripped me from start to finish and was a Superb psychological thriller with a paranormal twist. especially as it was full of twists and turns. A book you will not get bored with.
Maggie knows someone wants to hurt her daughter. So why will no-one help? and Why do they want to hurt her?
Single mother Maggie Conner struggles to raise her young daughter, Isabel, in a household ruled by her own abusive father.
Terrified for Isabel’s safety, Maggie realises that neither her cold, distant mother nor anyone else in town seem willing to help them.
Then Isabel starts to disappear for long periods, returning with no idea of where she has been or why.
And when Maggie tries to get outside help, doctors and psychologists seem strangely reluctant to get involved in Isabel’s case.
Is someone threatening them so they’ll stay away?
So, desperate to save her daughter, Maggie searches for answers. But the more she digs, the more she is forced to confront her own secrets which are buried deep in her own past.
As Maggie’s whole world begins to unravel, can she find the strength to face the terrifying truth?
Big Thank you to Netgalley, Theo Baxter, Inkubator Books for my ARC.
Theo Baxter gripped me from start to finish and was a Superb psychological thriller with a paranormal twist. especially as it was full of twists and turns. A book you will not get bored with.
Maggie knows someone wants to hurt her daughter. So why will no-one help? and Why do they want to hurt her?
Single mother Maggie Conner struggles to raise her young daughter, Isabel, in a household ruled by her own abusive father.
Terrified for Isabel’s safety, Maggie realises that neither her cold, distant mother nor anyone else in town seem willing to help them.
Then Isabel starts to disappear for long periods, returning with no idea of where she has been or why.
And when Maggie tries to get outside help, doctors and psychologists seem strangely reluctant to get involved in Isabel’s case.
Is someone threatening them so they’ll stay away?
So, desperate to save her daughter, Maggie searches for answers. But the more she digs, the more she is forced to confront her own secrets which are buried deep in her own past.
As Maggie’s whole world begins to unravel, can she find the strength to face the terrifying truth?
Big Thank you to Netgalley, Theo Baxter, Inkubator Books for my ARC.
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