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Когато тя си отиде
Три жени, оплетени в дантелената мрежа на привидно бляскавия свят на висшата мода…
Смайващата красота на Анастасия я измъква от дълбоката руска провинция. Сега тя е в Милано, има договор с елитна модна агенция, ходи на невероятни партита и се снима във фотосесии за най-големите марки. А един от най-желаните ергени в цяла Европа, красив и тайнствен благородник, я кани на среща в своето богаташко имение. Приказките понякога се сбъдват, нали?
Лив живее със сина си в усамотена къща в Норвегия. Стреми се да не привлича внимание, но всъщност всеки ден лъже всички около себе си. До момента, в който тайните от миналото ѝ я настигат. Тя е отвлечена, а синът ѝ се оказва в плен на непознат мъж, който твърди, че е баща му.
Селма е упорита разследваща журналистка, която се е заровила в мръсните тайни на модната индустрия. Това, което открива, е толкова смайващо, че някой отвисоко забранява да бъде публикувано. Разочарована, тя се заравя със случая на изчезналата Лив и нейния син, който в крайна сметка ще я отведе до още по-големи разкрития за покварата в модния свят…
Красотата може ли да спаси света? А един човек поне?
Анастасия, Лив и Селма се оказват на прицела на опасни мъже, които подмамват млади, красиви и невинни момичета, мечтаещи за модните подиуми.
„Когато тя си отиде“ е заплетен скандинавски трилър, в който само свалянето на всички маски може да разкрие какво се крие зад приказно красивите снимки в социалните мрежи.
Смайващата красота на Анастасия я измъква от дълбоката руска провинция. Сега тя е в Милано, има договор с елитна модна агенция, ходи на невероятни партита и се снима във фотосесии за най-големите марки. А един от най-желаните ергени в цяла Европа, красив и тайнствен благородник, я кани на среща в своето богаташко имение. Приказките понякога се сбъдват, нали?
Лив живее със сина си в усамотена къща в Норвегия. Стреми се да не привлича внимание, но всъщност всеки ден лъже всички около себе си. До момента, в който тайните от миналото ѝ я настигат. Тя е отвлечена, а синът ѝ се оказва в плен на непознат мъж, който твърди, че е баща му.
Селма е упорита разследваща журналистка, която се е заровила в мръсните тайни на модната индустрия. Това, което открива, е толкова смайващо, че някой отвисоко забранява да бъде публикувано. Разочарована, тя се заравя със случая на изчезналата Лив и нейния син, който в крайна сметка ще я отведе до още по-големи разкрития за покварата в модния свят…
Красотата може ли да спаси света? А един човек поне?
Анастасия, Лив и Селма се оказват на прицела на опасни мъже, които подмамват млади, красиви и невинни момичета, мечтаещи за модните подиуми.
„Когато тя си отиде“ е заплетен скандинавски трилър, в който само свалянето на всички маски може да разкрие какво се крие зад приказно красивите снимки в социалните мрежи.
388 pages, Paperback
First published August 18, 2022
101 people are currently reading
6057 people want to read
About the author
Alex Dahl
11 books467 followersHalf-American, half-Norwegian, Alex Dahl was born in Oslo. She graduated with a B.A. in Russian and German linguistics with International Studies and went on to complete an M.A. in Creative Writing at Bath Spa University, followed by an M.S. in Business Management at Bath University. Alex has published short stories in the U.K. and the U.S. She is a serious Francophile and currently lives in both London and Sandefjord. Alex Dahl is translated into eleven languages and was shortlisted for a CWA New Blood Dagger award for The Boy at the Door. The Heart Keeper (2019) is out now in English, Slovak, Polish, and Swedish, with further international translations underway. Playdate was published in Oct 2020 and was a Guardian Thriller of the month pick. Cabin Fever is out now!
Instagram @authoralex
Instagram @authoralex
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 144 reviews
July 9, 2022
Captivating!
After She’d Gone is a dark psychological thriller about a mother and her child, a model, and a reporter. All are connected through a missing person’s case.
Liv and her son Adrian live a quiet life in Norway. Nine-year-old Adrian is neurodivergent, and as a result, he is bullied. Airplanes and his mother are his happy places, until he witnesses his mother's kidnapping.
Selma is an investigative reporter in Norway.
Anastasia is a model living in Milan and on the verge of becoming a star.
The narrative alternates between Adrian, Liv, Anastasia, and Selma's POVs. Their voices are unique, but Adrian’s chapters had my heart. Dahl captures his innocence, his fear, and his love for his mother. He is a lovely character.
All narratives come together to form a captivating and intriguing plot.
My main gripe is that when the storylines come together, the events are rushed and a little chaotic.
This heart-pounding, fast-paced, tension-packed read took me on a journey to Norway, Rome, Milan, and Russia. There are some twists and turns and some dark and disturbing content. I figured out the main twist early on, but it did not detract from my enjoyment.
After She’d Gone was my first read by Dahl. I went in with no expectations, and I was pleasantly surprised by how much I liked this book. The characters are compelling, and the mystery behind Liv’s disappearance had me turning the pages. I can’t wait to read my by Dahl in the future.
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
After She’d Gone is a dark psychological thriller about a mother and her child, a model, and a reporter. All are connected through a missing person’s case.
Liv and her son Adrian live a quiet life in Norway. Nine-year-old Adrian is neurodivergent, and as a result, he is bullied. Airplanes and his mother are his happy places, until he witnesses his mother's kidnapping.
Selma is an investigative reporter in Norway.
Anastasia is a model living in Milan and on the verge of becoming a star.
The narrative alternates between Adrian, Liv, Anastasia, and Selma's POVs. Their voices are unique, but Adrian’s chapters had my heart. Dahl captures his innocence, his fear, and his love for his mother. He is a lovely character.
All narratives come together to form a captivating and intriguing plot.
My main gripe is that when the storylines come together, the events are rushed and a little chaotic.
This heart-pounding, fast-paced, tension-packed read took me on a journey to Norway, Rome, Milan, and Russia. There are some twists and turns and some dark and disturbing content. I figured out the main twist early on, but it did not detract from my enjoyment.
After She’d Gone was my first read by Dahl. I went in with no expectations, and I was pleasantly surprised by how much I liked this book. The characters are compelling, and the mystery behind Liv’s disappearance had me turning the pages. I can’t wait to read my by Dahl in the future.
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
November 8, 2025
Oh my goodness! It’s a serious crime to give this book less than five stars but I have to warn the things you’re gonna read make your blood run extremely cold! The graphic violence, abuse, honest approach to trafficking, drugs, dark side of the fashion industry are only a few several triggering subjects you have to digest! This book is not for everyone!
The storytelling, characterization, the way of author’s unfolding the entire mystery were pure perfection! But I advise you also read the authors previous book: “ Playdate”: it’s about the mysterious disappearance of seven years old Lucia Blix who is last seen at overnight play date. We’re introduced to Selma Eriksen at first time in that book: she’s a unique reporter with her sharp investigating skills, at the spectrum, seeing things from different approach which help her to solve the crimes and bring justice.
In this story: Selma is back alongside highly interesting POVs, having a huge credibility as the person who brought Lucia Blix back at her home to unite with her family.
Here are the main POVs:
Liv: a deaf single mother, raising her son Adrian who is neurodivergent. Liv tells people she works as a cleaner but she seems like keeping secrets, hiding from someone, doing some shady business on computers she’s set up at a remote farm place she’s rented.
Her son Adrian: smart, introvert, loyal boy, being bullied and outcasted by his peers, living in outskirts of little Norwegian town, mostly spending his time indoors after school, suffering from loneliness till her mom comes home to talk with him in their secret language.
We’re also introduced to Anastasia, coming from impoverished part of the city, after losing her mom she’s rescued by her grandmother, being taken to a monastery in the wilderness of of Krasotski Maga. When she’s been discovered by a talent agent, her life completely changed. Now she’s in Milan, starting her dream life, modeling for Gucci, Bottega Veneta, flying on private jets for photo shoots in Maldives. But she has no idea everything comes with a price. And can she afford to pay it in expanse losing her dignity?
And Selma is already covering a story about the dirty face of fashion industry where the girls from small towns are discovered by talent agencies, turning into cat walking stars attending endless, mostly fruitless castings by day, and entertaining wealthy men at upmarket private clubs or house parties by night. But her story is revoked by the owner of the newspaper and her boss Olev sends her to investigate a mother and son’s disappearance story which connects her with Liv and Adrian.
Do you want to know what she will find out! Just grab your copy and start turning the pages!
Smart twists, so many what the heck, jaw dropping moments later, you will get your answers by screaming “ why I didn’t see it coming! Am I dump?”
Overall: this book is extremely tense. Things you’re gonna read will make hot extra nervous, agitated. But it’s also bold, dark, moving, gripping, unputdownable, well structured. It’s worth to go to the dark side!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Head of Zeus for sharing this amazing digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest thoughts.
The storytelling, characterization, the way of author’s unfolding the entire mystery were pure perfection! But I advise you also read the authors previous book: “ Playdate”: it’s about the mysterious disappearance of seven years old Lucia Blix who is last seen at overnight play date. We’re introduced to Selma Eriksen at first time in that book: she’s a unique reporter with her sharp investigating skills, at the spectrum, seeing things from different approach which help her to solve the crimes and bring justice.
In this story: Selma is back alongside highly interesting POVs, having a huge credibility as the person who brought Lucia Blix back at her home to unite with her family.
Here are the main POVs:
Liv: a deaf single mother, raising her son Adrian who is neurodivergent. Liv tells people she works as a cleaner but she seems like keeping secrets, hiding from someone, doing some shady business on computers she’s set up at a remote farm place she’s rented.
Her son Adrian: smart, introvert, loyal boy, being bullied and outcasted by his peers, living in outskirts of little Norwegian town, mostly spending his time indoors after school, suffering from loneliness till her mom comes home to talk with him in their secret language.
We’re also introduced to Anastasia, coming from impoverished part of the city, after losing her mom she’s rescued by her grandmother, being taken to a monastery in the wilderness of of Krasotski Maga. When she’s been discovered by a talent agent, her life completely changed. Now she’s in Milan, starting her dream life, modeling for Gucci, Bottega Veneta, flying on private jets for photo shoots in Maldives. But she has no idea everything comes with a price. And can she afford to pay it in expanse losing her dignity?
And Selma is already covering a story about the dirty face of fashion industry where the girls from small towns are discovered by talent agencies, turning into cat walking stars attending endless, mostly fruitless castings by day, and entertaining wealthy men at upmarket private clubs or house parties by night. But her story is revoked by the owner of the newspaper and her boss Olev sends her to investigate a mother and son’s disappearance story which connects her with Liv and Adrian.
Do you want to know what she will find out! Just grab your copy and start turning the pages!
Smart twists, so many what the heck, jaw dropping moments later, you will get your answers by screaming “ why I didn’t see it coming! Am I dump?”
Overall: this book is extremely tense. Things you’re gonna read will make hot extra nervous, agitated. But it’s also bold, dark, moving, gripping, unputdownable, well structured. It’s worth to go to the dark side!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Head of Zeus for sharing this amazing digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest thoughts.
August 20, 2022
**Many thanks to NetGalley, Head of Zeus, and Alex Dahl for an ARC of this book! Now available as of 8.16!**
Dark, deep, disturbing and dangerous!
Liv's son Adrian isn't like the other kids. Being neurodivergent, his peers don't understand him and he lives a somewhat isolated and private existence with his mom Liv (a la Emma Donoghue's Room, minus the captivity) where the two share their own secret language. Adrian doesn't know much about his father, other than that he's bad. His world turns upside down, however, when he watches his mother's kidnapping...and has no idea where she's gone or how on earth he will find her.
Anastasia is a budding star on the rise. She enters the glamorous world of modelling, but quickly realizes all that glitters is far from gold. Everything from the sea of drugs and alcohol to the all-too-powerful men start to make her question her career choice...and long for her past. But now that she's embroiled in this life, is there an easy path out?
Selma is a journalist looking for answers. After being pulled from a story about the Dark Side of Modelling, she ends up investigating the disappearance of a certain young woman...a woman with a young son. But where will her investigation lead...and will she live to talk about it?
I've been wanting to try an Alex Dahl for ages, but I'll be honest: it was the flaming martini glass on this cover that caught my eye. (I mean, how do you top that?!) From chapter one, though, I came to realize that this is much less psychological thriller and much MORE of a Norwegian mystery-tinged story with an emotional background...and more heft than your average psycho-thriller will have on any given day.
So for much of this read, I felt pretty bogged down by the whole thing. The writing was HEAVY, which means no skimming...and I'll be honest, during Anastasia's sections especially, the urge to skim was strong. Liv and Adrian's narratives were interesting and of course detective Selma ties all of these plot threads together...but you have to have incredible patience and fortitude to get there. The descriptions of the locations are lovely, and it's always fun to hear about all the places I'll (probably) never get to go to in person *heavy sigh* BUT I still found my mind wandering quite a bit at times.
AND THEN everything changed at about 80%. The plot points coalesced, everything came together, and it's full throttle from there on out. It was SUCH a change of pace that I almost wonder if Dahl plotted her ending and worked backwards (or had an ending in mind from jump, at least), as I know sometimes authors write this way and it would explain a lot! Even though I predicted one of the main twists, the rest of the plotting was fairly intricate and not so easy to guess...which took my rating up (thank goodness) and left me feeling satisfied.
If you're looking for a slow burn mystery with some meat on its bones, this is a GREAT place to start! (and if you learn how to make a flaming martini while you're at it...teach me how!) 🔥🍸
3.5 stars, rounded up to 4 for a spectacular ending!
Dark, deep, disturbing and dangerous!
Liv's son Adrian isn't like the other kids. Being neurodivergent, his peers don't understand him and he lives a somewhat isolated and private existence with his mom Liv (a la Emma Donoghue's Room, minus the captivity) where the two share their own secret language. Adrian doesn't know much about his father, other than that he's bad. His world turns upside down, however, when he watches his mother's kidnapping...and has no idea where she's gone or how on earth he will find her.
Anastasia is a budding star on the rise. She enters the glamorous world of modelling, but quickly realizes all that glitters is far from gold. Everything from the sea of drugs and alcohol to the all-too-powerful men start to make her question her career choice...and long for her past. But now that she's embroiled in this life, is there an easy path out?
Selma is a journalist looking for answers. After being pulled from a story about the Dark Side of Modelling, she ends up investigating the disappearance of a certain young woman...a woman with a young son. But where will her investigation lead...and will she live to talk about it?
I've been wanting to try an Alex Dahl for ages, but I'll be honest: it was the flaming martini glass on this cover that caught my eye. (I mean, how do you top that?!) From chapter one, though, I came to realize that this is much less psychological thriller and much MORE of a Norwegian mystery-tinged story with an emotional background...and more heft than your average psycho-thriller will have on any given day.
So for much of this read, I felt pretty bogged down by the whole thing. The writing was HEAVY, which means no skimming...and I'll be honest, during Anastasia's sections especially, the urge to skim was strong. Liv and Adrian's narratives were interesting and of course detective Selma ties all of these plot threads together...but you have to have incredible patience and fortitude to get there. The descriptions of the locations are lovely, and it's always fun to hear about all the places I'll (probably) never get to go to in person *heavy sigh* BUT I still found my mind wandering quite a bit at times.
AND THEN everything changed at about 80%. The plot points coalesced, everything came together, and it's full throttle from there on out. It was SUCH a change of pace that I almost wonder if Dahl plotted her ending and worked backwards (or had an ending in mind from jump, at least), as I know sometimes authors write this way and it would explain a lot! Even though I predicted one of the main twists, the rest of the plotting was fairly intricate and not so easy to guess...which took my rating up (thank goodness) and left me feeling satisfied.
If you're looking for a slow burn mystery with some meat on its bones, this is a GREAT place to start! (and if you learn how to make a flaming martini while you're at it...teach me how!) 🔥🍸
3.5 stars, rounded up to 4 for a spectacular ending!
July 30, 2022
Thank you Head of Zeus and Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. IYKYK, my reviews are always honest.
HONDA CIVIC RELIABLE IN CONTEXT. 3.5 rounded UP. The more I think about this book, the more I like it. Came back to bump up the rating.
SYNOPSIS
Liv is a mysterious women who is suddenly kidnapped along with her autistic son Adrian. Anastasia is a Russian model who came and conquered the fashion scene in Milan before falling in love. Selma is a doggedly determined journalist who won't quit until she figured out what happened to Liv and her son and how this ties to the underbelly of the fashion world.
MY OPINION
Before you choose to pick up this book, I want to be very clear: This is Norwegian Nancy Drew: Secrets of Villa Serafina starring Selma the journalist. Police? What's that? Selma runs the show here. The police are only good for sweeping in at the last second and locking up the baddies when Selma has had enough. Otherwise, Selma Drew is leading the investigation into Liv's disappearance and unearthing the truth about Milan's glamorous fashion world. If you can't yeet all logic and reasoning out the window for this book, then it is not for you.
Next, this is heavy on the storytelling and the writing is VERY European. If you don't fk with this style of writing, skip it. I'm a fan though. Now back to the storytelling: I can definitely see people being very bored by this. If you're looking for straight up THRILLZ with a z, then this is not the one. This is a story as much as it is a mystery.
ANywayZ. I found this an enjoyable afternoon read. I'm obsessed with Europe because the food, art, history, and fashion is on point, so I enjoyed "travelling" to Norway, Russia, and Italy. I'm also into fashion (even though my closet is primarily white tees, light washed jeans and of course, pink ski masks) so following Anastasia's journey was fun too. And I appreciated the author including an autistic character without falling into negative stereotypes. Adrian was a resilient, intelligent, and emotionally sensitive boy who you can't help but root for.
I didn't really care for Selma Drew, but she was the knitter who brought all the threads together. Her relationship with Olaf or whatever tf his name is was whatever because I literally pictured him as a dorky bald old man who thick rimmed glasses who loves to wear bike shorts on the reg. But I digress...
An enjoyable lil read... but please read my review carefully before you pick this up and then come into my comments saying WOW THIS SHIT SUCKED YOU FOOLED ME!!!! (No one has ever done that because ya'll aren't animals but still lol...)
PROS AND CONS
Pros: takes place in Europe, interesting look at the fashion industry, enjoyable, easy to digest read, has some edge to it if you require thrillz
Cons: requires extreme suspension of disbelief, twists are easy to clock, lots of projectile vomit lol, romance is a lil cheesy but I have a piece of coal for a heart so take that as you will
HONDA CIVIC RELIABLE IN CONTEXT. 3.5 rounded UP. The more I think about this book, the more I like it. Came back to bump up the rating.
SYNOPSIS
Liv is a mysterious women who is suddenly kidnapped along with her autistic son Adrian. Anastasia is a Russian model who came and conquered the fashion scene in Milan before falling in love. Selma is a doggedly determined journalist who won't quit until she figured out what happened to Liv and her son and how this ties to the underbelly of the fashion world.
MY OPINION
Before you choose to pick up this book, I want to be very clear: This is Norwegian Nancy Drew: Secrets of Villa Serafina starring Selma the journalist. Police? What's that? Selma runs the show here. The police are only good for sweeping in at the last second and locking up the baddies when Selma has had enough. Otherwise, Selma Drew is leading the investigation into Liv's disappearance and unearthing the truth about Milan's glamorous fashion world. If you can't yeet all logic and reasoning out the window for this book, then it is not for you.
Next, this is heavy on the storytelling and the writing is VERY European. If you don't fk with this style of writing, skip it. I'm a fan though. Now back to the storytelling: I can definitely see people being very bored by this. If you're looking for straight up THRILLZ with a z, then this is not the one. This is a story as much as it is a mystery.
ANywayZ. I found this an enjoyable afternoon read. I'm obsessed with Europe because the food, art, history, and fashion is on point, so I enjoyed "travelling" to Norway, Russia, and Italy. I'm also into fashion (even though my closet is primarily white tees, light washed jeans and of course, pink ski masks) so following Anastasia's journey was fun too. And I appreciated the author including an autistic character without falling into negative stereotypes. Adrian was a resilient, intelligent, and emotionally sensitive boy who you can't help but root for.
I didn't really care for Selma Drew, but she was the knitter who brought all the threads together. Her relationship with Olaf or whatever tf his name is was whatever because I literally pictured him as a dorky bald old man who thick rimmed glasses who loves to wear bike shorts on the reg. But I digress...
An enjoyable lil read... but please read my review carefully before you pick this up and then come into my comments saying WOW THIS SHIT SUCKED YOU FOOLED ME!!!! (No one has ever done that because ya'll aren't animals but still lol...)
PROS AND CONS
Pros: takes place in Europe, interesting look at the fashion industry, enjoyable, easy to digest read, has some edge to it if you require thrillz
Cons: requires extreme suspension of disbelief, twists are easy to clock, lots of projectile vomit lol, romance is a lil cheesy but I have a piece of coal for a heart so take that as you will
June 21, 2022
4.5 rounded up
The book starts in a dramatic, emotional and very tense way that jolts you and there’s very little let up throughout. This is one rollercoaster read.
We start in Sandefjord, Norway with a wonderful nine year old boy, Adrian Carlsen who is autistic and an elective mute in certain circumstances. He adores watching the planes coming in and out of Torp airport. His mother Liv is loving and they share the most marvellous bond that warms your heart. However, it is apparent that Liv has a secret life of which Adrian is blissfully ignorant and which brings trouble to their door. Switch to Milan and the focus is on beautiful model Russian Anastasia whose fabulous looks draws the attention of major fashion houses but also of powerful men. Finally, there’s journalist Selma Ericksen (from ‘Playdate’) whose investigative journalism uncovers a horrifying world for some girls who believe they have found a route out of poverty through modelling. How do these characters and their stories connect?
Wow. I think this is Alex Dahl’s best book to date.
The portrayal of Adrian is outstanding as you feel his pain, his fear and his dread with his feelings seeming so raw and what the lovely little chap ends up going through breaks your heart as it’s all so powerfully palpable. Liv is clearly a wonderful mother and her love of Adrian shines brightly through the pages and everything she does is for him. The less I say about some of the others the better though there are unexpected surprises which redeems them.
There is an excellent sense of place, the atmosphere created is terrific with the cold of Norway matching the chill of events and as things heat up the focus is only on Italy. A very odd but undoubtedly unsettling sequence of events builds and the mystery grows around certain characters and your blood runs cold. The danger is intense there’s unbelievable cruelty as there are characters without a trace of humanity or morality.
It’s exciting, gripping, your jaw drops in places and hold your breath in others, you pray and keep your fingers crossed that justice will be served. It’s a dark intense tale with several twists that build to a satisfying end. I do figure out part but I’m so caught up in the drama that it matters not one jot.
Overall this is a very good thriller which I recommend.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Head of Zeus/ Aries for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
The book starts in a dramatic, emotional and very tense way that jolts you and there’s very little let up throughout. This is one rollercoaster read.
We start in Sandefjord, Norway with a wonderful nine year old boy, Adrian Carlsen who is autistic and an elective mute in certain circumstances. He adores watching the planes coming in and out of Torp airport. His mother Liv is loving and they share the most marvellous bond that warms your heart. However, it is apparent that Liv has a secret life of which Adrian is blissfully ignorant and which brings trouble to their door. Switch to Milan and the focus is on beautiful model Russian Anastasia whose fabulous looks draws the attention of major fashion houses but also of powerful men. Finally, there’s journalist Selma Ericksen (from ‘Playdate’) whose investigative journalism uncovers a horrifying world for some girls who believe they have found a route out of poverty through modelling. How do these characters and their stories connect?
Wow. I think this is Alex Dahl’s best book to date.
The portrayal of Adrian is outstanding as you feel his pain, his fear and his dread with his feelings seeming so raw and what the lovely little chap ends up going through breaks your heart as it’s all so powerfully palpable. Liv is clearly a wonderful mother and her love of Adrian shines brightly through the pages and everything she does is for him. The less I say about some of the others the better though there are unexpected surprises which redeems them.
There is an excellent sense of place, the atmosphere created is terrific with the cold of Norway matching the chill of events and as things heat up the focus is only on Italy. A very odd but undoubtedly unsettling sequence of events builds and the mystery grows around certain characters and your blood runs cold. The danger is intense there’s unbelievable cruelty as there are characters without a trace of humanity or morality.
It’s exciting, gripping, your jaw drops in places and hold your breath in others, you pray and keep your fingers crossed that justice will be served. It’s a dark intense tale with several twists that build to a satisfying end. I do figure out part but I’m so caught up in the drama that it matters not one jot.
Overall this is a very good thriller which I recommend.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Head of Zeus/ Aries for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
August 31, 2022
EXCERPT: 'She was a star,' her mother had said to Selma. 'We don't understand how someone could have treated her like trash.' It took three hours to interview Daria's mother; she was crying so hard she was largely incoherent. Selma tries to rid herself of the image that had alerted her to the story of prostitution and trafficking in the fashion industry in the first place, but she knows it is etched into her mind forever. Daria's skinny, lanky body, naked but for Swarovski-studded bikini bottoms, face down in the pebbled surf like a beached sea mammal, found by local fishermen at the break of dawn. She recalls how her blood ran cold with fury at the headline of one newspaper - 'Another Teenage Prostitute Meets Tragic Death.' Another teenage prostitute. Just another teenage prostitute. Selma had pored over the images,both the dead, discarded young woman and the woman she'd been in life; hopeful, gorgeous, easy prey. Selma wanted to bring her justice. Turns out, it wasn't possible - as much as it mattered to tell the story of Daria and several other girls like her, it was frustrating to repeatedly come up against a wall of protective silence around those really behind the trafficking and exploitation of the girls.
ABOUT 'AFTER SHE'D GONE': Liv loves her son, Adrian. That's why she keeps a low profile in Sandefjord, Norway: just another tired single mother, trying to make ends meet. She has never told her son about the secrets she carries or the life she lived before he was born. She will do anything to keep him safe.
Anastasia's life is transformed when she moves from Russia to Milan and starts modelling. Suddenly, she's rich. She's desired. But then she begins to see the dark side of her new life: the high-pressure catwalk shows; the glamorous, drink-fuelled after-parties; the sun-baked Italian palazzos owned by powerful men. She will do anything to escape
Selma is a feature journalist in Oslo. She's horrified to uncover an unsavoury and dangerous underworld when she writes an article looking into the modelling industry. Then, a woman goes missing in Sandefjord...
MY THOUGHTS: I started reading this book, couldn't get into it, put it down, picked it up again a few days later. I read almost half, put it down, picked it up again a few days later and finished it. And now? I don't know . . .
The story is told from four points of view: Liv, the single mother of Adrian, a neuro-divergant boy obsessed by aeroplanes; Adrian; Anastasia, a model; and Selma, an investigative reporter. The storyline is non-linear, which I don't normally have a problem with but, in this case, I became confused trying to work out just what time period of the story we were in. It was frustrating. I can see why the author did it, because to have defined the year would have given away major spoilers. But, by half way through, I had it worked out anyway, and the lack of definition just served to irritate me.
I loved Adrian and the bond he had with his mother. His teacher was incredible; I wish there were more like her. Like Liv, Selma is an incredibly strong character with just a touch of vulnerability.
There were parts of this read that I loved, that drew me in; but other parts that left me cold.
I wanted to love this book as I have everything else I have read by this author. I have no doubt that this will be a great success and it deserves to be. There is a powerful message in there. But for me, and I know that I am in the minority, After She'd Gone was just an average read.
Great cover art!
⭐⭐⭐
#AfterShedGone #NetGalley
I:@authoralex @headofzeus
T: @alexdahlauthor @HoZ_Books
#contemporaryfiction #psychologicalthriller #suspense
THE AUTHOR: Half-American, half-Norwegian, Alex Dahl was born in Oslo. She is a serious Francophile and currently lives in both London and Sandefjord.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Head of Zeus via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of After She'd Gone by Alex Dahl for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review and others are also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
ABOUT 'AFTER SHE'D GONE': Liv loves her son, Adrian. That's why she keeps a low profile in Sandefjord, Norway: just another tired single mother, trying to make ends meet. She has never told her son about the secrets she carries or the life she lived before he was born. She will do anything to keep him safe.
Anastasia's life is transformed when she moves from Russia to Milan and starts modelling. Suddenly, she's rich. She's desired. But then she begins to see the dark side of her new life: the high-pressure catwalk shows; the glamorous, drink-fuelled after-parties; the sun-baked Italian palazzos owned by powerful men. She will do anything to escape
Selma is a feature journalist in Oslo. She's horrified to uncover an unsavoury and dangerous underworld when she writes an article looking into the modelling industry. Then, a woman goes missing in Sandefjord...
MY THOUGHTS: I started reading this book, couldn't get into it, put it down, picked it up again a few days later. I read almost half, put it down, picked it up again a few days later and finished it. And now? I don't know . . .
The story is told from four points of view: Liv, the single mother of Adrian, a neuro-divergant boy obsessed by aeroplanes; Adrian; Anastasia, a model; and Selma, an investigative reporter. The storyline is non-linear, which I don't normally have a problem with but, in this case, I became confused trying to work out just what time period of the story we were in. It was frustrating. I can see why the author did it, because to have defined the year would have given away major spoilers. But, by half way through, I had it worked out anyway, and the lack of definition just served to irritate me.
I loved Adrian and the bond he had with his mother. His teacher was incredible; I wish there were more like her. Like Liv, Selma is an incredibly strong character with just a touch of vulnerability.
There were parts of this read that I loved, that drew me in; but other parts that left me cold.
I wanted to love this book as I have everything else I have read by this author. I have no doubt that this will be a great success and it deserves to be. There is a powerful message in there. But for me, and I know that I am in the minority, After She'd Gone was just an average read.
Great cover art!
⭐⭐⭐
#AfterShedGone #NetGalley
I:@authoralex @headofzeus
T: @alexdahlauthor @HoZ_Books
#contemporaryfiction #psychologicalthriller #suspense
THE AUTHOR: Half-American, half-Norwegian, Alex Dahl was born in Oslo. She is a serious Francophile and currently lives in both London and Sandefjord.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Head of Zeus via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of After She'd Gone by Alex Dahl for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review and others are also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
July 28, 2022
This book was about the hundreds or maybe thousands of beautiful young women who flock to the world’s fashion capital, Milan, every year with the dream of making it as a model. And some do make it, but most, after a string of unsuccessful casting calls, become the playthings of rich, middle-aged, entitled men. It’s not so bad to start with - they get to go to lots of lovely parties, still get nice clothes and accessories but soon the laughter becomes more brittle and the eyes become harder. When the men tire of them they are quickly forced onto the drugs and into prostitution.
This story is told from the POV of three women and one boy. Liv Carlson was part of the modelling world in Milan but later succumbed to drug addiction and disappeared. She ends up living a reclusive life in Sandefjord, Norway, with her 9 year old, selectively mute, neuro-diverse son Adrian. Then she disappears!
Anastasia is a striking young Russian woman from Yekaterinburg who lived with her grandmother on a farm. She is head hunted for Georgio di Vincenzo’s modelling agency and does very well. Then Giorgio himself notices her and sweeps her off her feet. But she soon learns that there is a dark side to him and she is living in a gilded cage.
Selma Eriksen is an investigative journalist who has been researching the darker side of modelling in Milan and has a story to tell. But her editor pulls the plug. It is not his decision but the paper’s owner has spoken. Selma is reassigned to investigate the disappearance of Liv Carlson and her son. It all looks very straightforward until she learns that Liv was once part of Giorgio’s stable and she senses there is a bigger story to be told so she heads off to Italy.
Adrian is painfully shy and almost mute but he is a clever boy, loyal to his mother and very resourceful. So when he finds himself locked up in a place he doesn’t know, he waits and watches and plays the game. He wants to save his mother but he doesn’t even know where she is.
All these stories intersect in a most dramatic fashion. The book is gripping and very immersive. The women are strong and determined in the face of overpowering odds. But the medal for best character goes to young Adrian who fools them all. This story was heartbreaking at times. The casual cruelty of the entitled is obscene. I don’t know that I “enjoyed” it because of the subject matter but it is certainly a story that will stay with me. Kudos to the author for such an impactful book. I did pick where it was going pretty early although it didn’t really detract from my reading experience. Many thanks to Netgalley and Head of Zeus for the much appreciated arc which I reviewed voluntarily and honestly.
This story is told from the POV of three women and one boy. Liv Carlson was part of the modelling world in Milan but later succumbed to drug addiction and disappeared. She ends up living a reclusive life in Sandefjord, Norway, with her 9 year old, selectively mute, neuro-diverse son Adrian. Then she disappears!
Anastasia is a striking young Russian woman from Yekaterinburg who lived with her grandmother on a farm. She is head hunted for Georgio di Vincenzo’s modelling agency and does very well. Then Giorgio himself notices her and sweeps her off her feet. But she soon learns that there is a dark side to him and she is living in a gilded cage.
Selma Eriksen is an investigative journalist who has been researching the darker side of modelling in Milan and has a story to tell. But her editor pulls the plug. It is not his decision but the paper’s owner has spoken. Selma is reassigned to investigate the disappearance of Liv Carlson and her son. It all looks very straightforward until she learns that Liv was once part of Giorgio’s stable and she senses there is a bigger story to be told so she heads off to Italy.
Adrian is painfully shy and almost mute but he is a clever boy, loyal to his mother and very resourceful. So when he finds himself locked up in a place he doesn’t know, he waits and watches and plays the game. He wants to save his mother but he doesn’t even know where she is.
All these stories intersect in a most dramatic fashion. The book is gripping and very immersive. The women are strong and determined in the face of overpowering odds. But the medal for best character goes to young Adrian who fools them all. This story was heartbreaking at times. The casual cruelty of the entitled is obscene. I don’t know that I “enjoyed” it because of the subject matter but it is certainly a story that will stay with me. Kudos to the author for such an impactful book. I did pick where it was going pretty early although it didn’t really detract from my reading experience. Many thanks to Netgalley and Head of Zeus for the much appreciated arc which I reviewed voluntarily and honestly.
August 19, 2022
After She’d Gone is a suspenseful thriller set in Norway and Italy, about the dark underbelly of the world of international modelling, by an author who is new to me. I’m supposed to be limiting my NetGalley requests to authors I know, but this had great advance reviews and an enticing cover so in a weak moment I succumbed. Reader, I regret nothing! It features a character from the author’s previous book but read just fine as a stand-alone.
Liv Carlsen lives a quiet life in Sandefjord, near Oslo, with her nine year old son Adrian, who has autism, until one day someone from her past comes for her. Anastasia is a beautiful young Russian woman, brought to Milan on the promise of a career as a top model, who is soon swept up in the hedonistic life of the super rich. And Selma Eriksen is a successful Norwegian journalist who believes in unmasking the truth no matter the risk. How do these women connect, and how far will they go to save a vulnerable boy?
This was a book of two halves - I enjoyed the first, as we get to know the different characters, even though I’ve decided I’m not a fan of POV changes
with every chapter as it disrupts the low of the story too much. This is all told in present tense (boo, hiss) in a mixture of first and third person, but it was Adrian’s perspective that I found the most compelling, as the mostly
mute but smart and courageous little boy finds himself separated from the only parent he’s ever known.
There’s a plot device which has become ubiquitous in recent years to the extent that I wonder why authors bother. The “twist” here was so obvious as to be unnecessary and added nothing to the drama, but neither did the foreknowledge spoil it. There’s also a preposterous coincidence linking the different strands. In the second half, this got a lot darker, with some uncomfortable scenes of physical and sexual violence towards women that merit a trigger warning or two. I can however reassure you that nothing bad happens to Selma’s cat or the cute puppy.
While the plot was somewhat predictable, the characters and seamless writing are what elevates this from the rest of the Overcrowded genre. The main villain is suitably despicable and scarily believable given the revelations about the elite of recent years. I found the ending a bit rushed but liked how things were wrapped up. I’d read more from this author if she wrote in conventional past tense.
Thanks to NetGalley and Head of Zeus for the ARC. I am posting this honest review voluntarily. After She’d Gone is available now.
Liv Carlsen lives a quiet life in Sandefjord, near Oslo, with her nine year old son Adrian, who has autism, until one day someone from her past comes for her. Anastasia is a beautiful young Russian woman, brought to Milan on the promise of a career as a top model, who is soon swept up in the hedonistic life of the super rich. And Selma Eriksen is a successful Norwegian journalist who believes in unmasking the truth no matter the risk. How do these women connect, and how far will they go to save a vulnerable boy?
This was a book of two halves - I enjoyed the first, as we get to know the different characters, even though I’ve decided I’m not a fan of POV changes
with every chapter as it disrupts the low of the story too much. This is all told in present tense (boo, hiss) in a mixture of first and third person, but it was Adrian’s perspective that I found the most compelling, as the mostly
mute but smart and courageous little boy finds himself separated from the only parent he’s ever known.
There’s a plot device which has become ubiquitous in recent years to the extent that I wonder why authors bother. The “twist” here was so obvious as to be unnecessary and added nothing to the drama, but neither did the foreknowledge spoil it. There’s also a preposterous coincidence linking the different strands. In the second half, this got a lot darker, with some uncomfortable scenes of physical and sexual violence towards women that merit a trigger warning or two. I can however reassure you that nothing bad happens to Selma’s cat or the cute puppy.
While the plot was somewhat predictable, the characters and seamless writing are what elevates this from the rest of the Overcrowded genre. The main villain is suitably despicable and scarily believable given the revelations about the elite of recent years. I found the ending a bit rushed but liked how things were wrapped up. I’d read more from this author if she wrote in conventional past tense.
Thanks to NetGalley and Head of Zeus for the ARC. I am posting this honest review voluntarily. After She’d Gone is available now.
December 25, 2024
4.5 ⭐️ Определено един от най-добрите трилъри на годината за мен!
Това е първата книга на Алекс Дал, която чета, и просто мога само да кажа че съм ВЛЮБЕНА. В стила й на писане, в персонажите, които създава, във вниманието към абсолютно всеки един детайл с който допринася към реалистичното и актуалното в сюжета, вдъхвайки му живот - просто ме зашемети.
Толкова много герои, но не беше нито объркващо, нито трудно за проследяване. Имаше напрежение, каквото се очаква в един трилър. Имаше мафия, но не от онези клишета със секси мафиоти, в които се влюбваш, а напротив. Тези, истинските мафиоти, които манипулират и се възползват от млади момичета с големи мечти идващи от бедни семейства и когато са сигурни, че няма при кого да се върнат или към кого да се обърнат - показват истинската си, чудовищна същност. Имаше и мистерия, и още тооолкова много неща, които ми харесаха - презентацията на невродивергентите деца в лицето на малкият Адриан, и злодеят с вид увреждане, абе всичко беше изпипано до най-малката подробност и с изключителна прецизност. Единствено Салма като персонаж ми беше една идея по-слаба в сравнение с другите герои, но не отричам, че допринесе с много за развитието на сюжета.
През цялото време, докато четох за тъмната страна на модната индустрия, която впрочем е описана и разгледана много добре в тази книга, не спирах да си мисля за онзи реален случай с моделката Руслана Коршунова, която трагично сложи край на живота си през 2008, когато е едва на 20, и до ден днешен се водят спекулации, че смъртта й е свързана с посещението й на острова на Джефри Епстийн (американски финансист и милионер известен като сериен сексуален престъпник). Имаше много такива сходни елементи и определено ме накара да се замисля, че много от ужасяващите сцени тук всъщност са реалност в момента за много жени, някъде по света.
Сега за обратите. Обратите са просто уау! Когато най-накрая стигнеш до тях и навържеш две и две, все едно през цялото време си чел с едно око. Аз се върнах назад и като започнах да мисля и буквално си казах “Добре де, как не го забеляза това, било е буквално пред носа ти!” 😃
До последно се очертаваше да дам на книгата 5 ⭐️. Когато обаче осъзнах, че ми оставят някакви 30 страници, а все още не са се разиграли целите тези разкрития, екшън, драми, какво ли още не, и се притесних дали няма накрая финалът да е твърде избързан. За съжаление опасенията ми се оказаха верни, и цялата развръзка, всички преплетени нишки - всичко на две на три се подреди като на филм и мен това ме разочарова. Предпочитам книгата да беше още със стотина странички отгоре, ама да се бяха развили нещата к��кто си му е реда, да видим някакви реални последици, размисли, нещо - от колкото този край, който получихме. В никакъв случай не беше лош, не ме разбирайте погрешно! Но не беше за петте звезди, които се надявах да дам.
Нямам търпение да прочета повече от книгите на тази авторка. Успя да ме впечатли и бих препоръчала тази книга на всеки мой приятел, който си търси добър и ангажиращ трилър, особено ако си пада и по модата! Then it’s the best of both worlds. 🛍️
Това е първата книга на Алекс Дал, която чета, и просто мога само да кажа че съм ВЛЮБЕНА. В стила й на писане, в персонажите, които създава, във вниманието към абсолютно всеки един детайл с който допринася към реалистичното и актуалното в сюжета, вдъхвайки му живот - просто ме зашемети.
Толкова много герои, но не беше нито объркващо, нито трудно за проследяване. Имаше напрежение, каквото се очаква в един трилър. Имаше мафия, но не от онези клишета със секси мафиоти, в които се влюбваш, а напротив. Тези, истинските мафиоти, които манипулират и се възползват от млади момичета с големи мечти идващи от бедни семейства и когато са сигурни, че няма при кого да се върнат или към кого да се обърнат - показват истинската си, чудовищна същност. Имаше и мистерия, и още тооолкова много неща, които ми харесаха - презентацията на невродивергентите деца в лицето на малкият Адриан, и злодеят с вид увреждане, абе всичко беше изпипано до най-малката подробност и с изключителна прецизност. Единствено Салма като персонаж ми беше една идея по-слаба в сравнение с другите герои, но не отричам, че допринесе с много за развитието на сюжета.
През цялото време, докато четох за тъмната страна на модната индустрия, която впрочем е описана и разгледана много добре в тази книга, не спирах да си мисля за онзи реален случай с моделката Руслана Коршунова, която трагично сложи край на живота си през 2008, когато е едва на 20, и до ден днешен се водят спекулации, че смъртта й е свързана с посещението й на острова на Джефри Епстийн (американски финансист и милионер известен като сериен сексуален престъпник). Имаше много такива сходни елементи и определено ме накара да се замисля, че много от ужасяващите сцени тук всъщност са реалност в момента за много жени, някъде по света.
Сега за обратите. Обратите са просто уау! Когато най-накрая стигнеш до тях и навържеш две и две, все едно през цялото време си чел с едно око. Аз се върнах назад и като започнах да мисля и буквално си казах “Добре де, как не го забеляза това, било е буквално пред носа ти!” 😃
До последно се очертаваше да дам на книгата 5 ⭐️. Когато обаче осъзнах, че ми оставят някакви 30 страници, а все още не са се разиграли целите тези разкрития, екшън, драми, какво ли още не, и се притесних дали няма накрая финалът да е твърде избързан. За съжаление опасенията ми се оказаха верни, и цялата развръзка, всички преплетени нишки - всичко на две на три се подреди като на филм и мен това ме разочарова. Предпочитам книгата да беше още със стотина странички отгоре, ама да се бяха развили нещата к��кто си му е реда, да видим някакви реални последици, размисли, нещо - от колкото този край, който получихме. В никакъв случай не беше лош, не ме разбирайте погрешно! Но не беше за петте звезди, които се надявах да дам.
Нямам търпение да прочета повече от книгите на тази авторка. Успя да ме впечатли и бих препоръчала тази книга на всеки мой приятел, който си търси добър и ангажиращ трилър, особено ако си пада и по модата! Then it’s the best of both worlds. 🛍️
October 1, 2022
This is not the kind of book I usually read, focused on organized crime and drug trafficking in the dark underbelly of the modeling world, but I really enjoyed it. The POVs alternate between 4 voices: Liv, who lives a reclusive life to protect her son from something the reader doesn’t know about; her son Adrian; Anastasia, a model who gets in too deep with dangerous men; and Selma, a reporter determined to find out what happened when the first 2 narrators disappear.
I thought the book moved at a very fast clip and the switch of voices from character to character kept me reading one more chapter. The book is dark and there is some violence that is not for the feint of heart, but the story is well thought out and the author does a fantastic job of weaving together the storylines into a cohesive picture as the book continues. I liked all the main characters and couldn’t fault any of the decisions they made. There were a couple twists throughout, and I felt myself connecting the dots along with the characters at some points. The ending was a bit abrupt after such a long lead up, but I did feel satisfied about how it all worked out.
Overall, good book that I’m really glad I picked up. I’d recommend it to those who like thrillers. I am going to check out more books by this author. Thanks to Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I thought the book moved at a very fast clip and the switch of voices from character to character kept me reading one more chapter. The book is dark and there is some violence that is not for the feint of heart, but the story is well thought out and the author does a fantastic job of weaving together the storylines into a cohesive picture as the book continues. I liked all the main characters and couldn’t fault any of the decisions they made. There were a couple twists throughout, and I felt myself connecting the dots along with the characters at some points. The ending was a bit abrupt after such a long lead up, but I did feel satisfied about how it all worked out.
Overall, good book that I’m really glad I picked up. I’d recommend it to those who like thrillers. I am going to check out more books by this author. Thanks to Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 13, 2022
This is an exciting and gripping thriller that should be on your TBRs! The pacing is good and the characters are amazing. My heart bled for Adrian while reading, he’s such a sweet little soul, and Liv’s love for him is a shining beacon in this book. I enjoy books with multiple POVs as I like to see things from as many perspectives as possible rather than a single character, but more than that, I love a good twist that I can’t predict when reading thrillers, and this one didn’t disappoint! There’s a fair bit of graphic violence in this book so if you’re a tad squeamish then just be warned!
Thank you to Head of Zeus for sending me a copy of this one and having me on the blog tour.
Thank you to Head of Zeus for sending me a copy of this one and having me on the blog tour.
July 29, 2022
The narrative alternates between the story of Adrian, Liv and Anastasia. It was a bit to confusing for me . I was touched by the strong mother-sun relationship between Adrian and his mom.
Thanks Netgalkey for this book.
Thanks Netgalkey for this book.
September 19, 2023
Неочаквано развитие на сюжета, ето такива книги обичам да чета!
October 18, 2023
Книгата хвърля интересен поглед върху модната индустрия в Европа, съдържа елементи на трилър, но не бих казал, че е един от най-добрите такива. Колкото до развръзката накрая... ако това е било замислено като обрат, то бих казал, че е твърде слабо като идея, защото през почти целия прочит ясно осъзнавах какво се случва.
Четенето беше трудно, мудно, изпаднах в книжен застой като че ли точно заради този роман, едва накрая имаше малко раздвижване и честно казано се зарадвах на щастливия край. Свидят ми се повече от три звезди.
Четенето беше трудно, мудно, изпаднах в книжен застой като че ли точно заради този роман, едва накрая имаше малко раздвижване и честно казано се зарадвах на щастливия край. Свидят ми се повече от три звезди.
January 7, 2025
Принципно скандинавските автори не са ми любимци.Зачетох този роман с леки предразсъдъци и в началото ми беше скучен,а и не обичам истории без или с малко пряка реч.След това обаче не можах да го оставя.На един дъх го прочетох !Историята показва мръсното лице на модната индустрия.Загатва и за корупцията по високите върхове на властта.Обръща внимание и на "различните" деца.На насилието върху жени.Романът е измислена история,но всички знаем,че тези неща са реалност!Не ми хареса обаче края на историята.Някак си много набързо и претупан ми се стори.Реално за мен 3,5 ⭐️
August 7, 2022
AFTER SHE'D GONE
BY: ALEX DAHL
This is a psychological thriller that I devoured because there is some beautiful writing especially having to do with the settings and landscapes in the various Countries. What initially drew me to want to read this very dark plotted novel was because I thought that it took place just in Norway. Some of it did as in the beginning. Having enjoyed Kristina Ohlsson's re-read that I reviewed years ago, I discovered that was #5 in the series that ended. I will read the first four after I finish my Net Galley commitments. She hasn't written anything new in years so I thought I would try Alex Dahl's new novel called, "After She'd Gone". This was very long and it seemed to drag on a little too much for my taste. As I write this review I am for the first time ever still debating how many stars I honestly think is fair and honest. Every other novel I read I knew immediately how many stars to allocate before I started composing my review. So, this is a major deviation to how I usually can decide that after reading a book's final line.
Admitting right away that I loved the atmospheric descriptions I didn't feel comfortable with the subject matter having to do with the human trafficking of young women through a shell modeling agency. Sure, they started out from modest homes, and some were showered with the super rich designers like Gucci, Vogue covers and when the rich and powerful older men tired of them they were given drugs and developed addictions. I did enjoy reading about the glamorous lifestyles and the top designers and lavish clothes and handbags. I didn't like the violence and the abuse.
This was a graphic at times with the violence and abuse which I don't enjoy. I found that there was non-stop action which kept my interest. It as I mentioned seemed in the middle to be bogged down, but looking back it might have needed what I thought felt off to tell the whole story from four points of view.
It begins in Sandefjord, Norway with nine year old Adrian who is a boy who is bright, but Autistic or Biodivergent who gets picked on at school. He loves airplanes and his kind teacher Marie indulges him. His mother Liv Carlsen goes to work, but it is evident how much she loves her son, Adrian. It's just the two of them in their isolated home. Liv has told Adrian that his father is a very bad man and he is. Adrian feels different from the other kids at school, but to his mother and his teacher Marie he is very special. I loved Adrian, also. He was innocent and pure and he loved his mother just as much as she loved him.
"A huge, burning sun bearing the otherworldly pink Arctic light appears, casting the snowy
fields in shades of rose and gold. I should get going, I have a lot to do, but I'm mesmerized
and moved by the beauty of the sunrise that is unseen by those still sleeping snug in their
beds or sitting at their desks with less panoramic views than mine. From here in this ancient
barn converted into garages and storage units and a single office-mine-all I can see are fields
and trees and a small section of a big lake, now frozen solid. The only sign of human activity
I ever see from here is the occasional ice skater venturing out onto the lake, a black speck of
a being moving in slow, wide circles, like a fly". Liv Carlsen at work.
Liv and Adrian disappear and Selma who works for Norway's biggest newspaper in Oslo thinks that she should investigate it. Soon she thinks that their disappearance is somehow linked to the story she was working on about the models who are missing. Sometimes when ultra rich and older men get tired of these girls who don't keep modeling--some girls turn to escorts where they go to lavish parties and along with the fine champagne they get introduced to drugs. Then they get addicted and go missing . What happened to Liv and Adrian? Did they decide to leave of their own free will? Did something more sinister happen to them?
The writing was well above average despite my discomfort with the sometimes graphic violence. There is a major plot twist that I appreciated because I never saw it coming. This isn't something that most wouldn't have seen it coming either, but takes a talented author's skill and imagination. It ties the four different narrators into a cohesive explosive ending that is satisfying. This isn't for everyone, but for those less squeamish than I am I know it will succeed. A solid four stars!
Publication Date: 8-18-2022
Thank you to Net Galley, Alex Dahl and Head of Zeus-Aries for providing me with my ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
#AfterShe'dGone #AlexDahl #HeadofZeusAries #NetGalley
BY: ALEX DAHL
This is a psychological thriller that I devoured because there is some beautiful writing especially having to do with the settings and landscapes in the various Countries. What initially drew me to want to read this very dark plotted novel was because I thought that it took place just in Norway. Some of it did as in the beginning. Having enjoyed Kristina Ohlsson's re-read that I reviewed years ago, I discovered that was #5 in the series that ended. I will read the first four after I finish my Net Galley commitments. She hasn't written anything new in years so I thought I would try Alex Dahl's new novel called, "After She'd Gone". This was very long and it seemed to drag on a little too much for my taste. As I write this review I am for the first time ever still debating how many stars I honestly think is fair and honest. Every other novel I read I knew immediately how many stars to allocate before I started composing my review. So, this is a major deviation to how I usually can decide that after reading a book's final line.
Admitting right away that I loved the atmospheric descriptions I didn't feel comfortable with the subject matter having to do with the human trafficking of young women through a shell modeling agency. Sure, they started out from modest homes, and some were showered with the super rich designers like Gucci, Vogue covers and when the rich and powerful older men tired of them they were given drugs and developed addictions. I did enjoy reading about the glamorous lifestyles and the top designers and lavish clothes and handbags. I didn't like the violence and the abuse.
This was a graphic at times with the violence and abuse which I don't enjoy. I found that there was non-stop action which kept my interest. It as I mentioned seemed in the middle to be bogged down, but looking back it might have needed what I thought felt off to tell the whole story from four points of view.
It begins in Sandefjord, Norway with nine year old Adrian who is a boy who is bright, but Autistic or Biodivergent who gets picked on at school. He loves airplanes and his kind teacher Marie indulges him. His mother Liv Carlsen goes to work, but it is evident how much she loves her son, Adrian. It's just the two of them in their isolated home. Liv has told Adrian that his father is a very bad man and he is. Adrian feels different from the other kids at school, but to his mother and his teacher Marie he is very special. I loved Adrian, also. He was innocent and pure and he loved his mother just as much as she loved him.
"A huge, burning sun bearing the otherworldly pink Arctic light appears, casting the snowy
fields in shades of rose and gold. I should get going, I have a lot to do, but I'm mesmerized
and moved by the beauty of the sunrise that is unseen by those still sleeping snug in their
beds or sitting at their desks with less panoramic views than mine. From here in this ancient
barn converted into garages and storage units and a single office-mine-all I can see are fields
and trees and a small section of a big lake, now frozen solid. The only sign of human activity
I ever see from here is the occasional ice skater venturing out onto the lake, a black speck of
a being moving in slow, wide circles, like a fly". Liv Carlsen at work.
Liv and Adrian disappear and Selma who works for Norway's biggest newspaper in Oslo thinks that she should investigate it. Soon she thinks that their disappearance is somehow linked to the story she was working on about the models who are missing. Sometimes when ultra rich and older men get tired of these girls who don't keep modeling--some girls turn to escorts where they go to lavish parties and along with the fine champagne they get introduced to drugs. Then they get addicted and go missing . What happened to Liv and Adrian? Did they decide to leave of their own free will? Did something more sinister happen to them?
The writing was well above average despite my discomfort with the sometimes graphic violence. There is a major plot twist that I appreciated because I never saw it coming. This isn't something that most wouldn't have seen it coming either, but takes a talented author's skill and imagination. It ties the four different narrators into a cohesive explosive ending that is satisfying. This isn't for everyone, but for those less squeamish than I am I know it will succeed. A solid four stars!
Publication Date: 8-18-2022
Thank you to Net Galley, Alex Dahl and Head of Zeus-Aries for providing me with my ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
#AfterShe'dGone #AlexDahl #HeadofZeusAries #NetGalley
August 17, 2022
This unsettling and at times dark thriller immerses the reader in the sinister side of the fashion world in which young women, often from Eastern Europe, attracted by the prospect of travelling the world and striding the catwalks for big fashion houses discover the reality is quite, quite different. They find themselves drawn into a murky world of drugs and sexual exploitation in which men hold the power and aren’t afraid to use it. For the women, staying is risky, but leaving is even more so.
Investigative journalist Selma’s involvement comes about because of her role in investigating the previous disappearance of a young girl from the very same place as the missing woman – Sandefjord. (The case was the focus of the author’s previous book, Playdate.) Selma’s investigation takes her into a very murky world populated by extremely ruthless and, in some cases, very damaged individuals. I loved her strength, her fearlessness and her determination to get answers.
I confess I guessed some key aspects of the plot pretty early on but with this type of thriller you can never be sure the author’s not going to spring a surprise until you reach the final page, can you?
The standout element of the book for me was the wonderfully tender portrait of Adrian, a young boy who is different from other children. ‘Adrian craves freedom. He feels trapped in his own mind; he’s not like anyone else and he wishes he could fly away.’ He is obsessed with airplanes, loves watching them take off and land at the nearby airport, can spend hours absorbed in creating origami models of planes and knows the codes for every international airport. Contrary to what many think, he’s intelligent but often finds it difficult to communicate or express his feelings except through the ‘secret’ language his mother Liv has taught him. What he does know is there are things he must keep secret at all costs and, that if he’s to save his mother, he will have to be very brave. Spoiler: he is.
After She’d Gone is a taut, skilfully-crafted thriller that demonstrates all that glitters is not gold. It would make the perfect beach read.
Investigative journalist Selma’s involvement comes about because of her role in investigating the previous disappearance of a young girl from the very same place as the missing woman – Sandefjord. (The case was the focus of the author’s previous book, Playdate.) Selma’s investigation takes her into a very murky world populated by extremely ruthless and, in some cases, very damaged individuals. I loved her strength, her fearlessness and her determination to get answers.
I confess I guessed some key aspects of the plot pretty early on but with this type of thriller you can never be sure the author’s not going to spring a surprise until you reach the final page, can you?
The standout element of the book for me was the wonderfully tender portrait of Adrian, a young boy who is different from other children. ‘Adrian craves freedom. He feels trapped in his own mind; he’s not like anyone else and he wishes he could fly away.’ He is obsessed with airplanes, loves watching them take off and land at the nearby airport, can spend hours absorbed in creating origami models of planes and knows the codes for every international airport. Contrary to what many think, he’s intelligent but often finds it difficult to communicate or express his feelings except through the ‘secret’ language his mother Liv has taught him. What he does know is there are things he must keep secret at all costs and, that if he’s to save his mother, he will have to be very brave. Spoiler: he is.
After She’d Gone is a taut, skilfully-crafted thriller that demonstrates all that glitters is not gold. It would make the perfect beach read.
September 1, 2022
Foarte bine scrisă, cu mult suspans si multe întorsături de situație.
July 13, 2022
It is rare for an author, especially a crime writer, to become better with each book he/she writes and more than often we watch impressive debuts lacking an equivalent continuity, every trace of the initial spark gone forever. Alex Dahl, one of the most promising representatives of contemporary Norwegian crime fiction belongs to that limited breed of authors who work their way up in terms of honing their craft as time passes by, always delivering books that are superior to their predecessors. Dahl had demonstrated her skills early on in her debut novel, A Boy at the Door, a haunting piece of psychological suspense featuring a female protagonist who tries, futilely, to keep her past in the past and never allow it to alter her seemingly perfect family life. The novel was a commercial and critical success showcasing a sensitive author who has a profound insight for the complex inner state of a woman in a state of crisis. The realistic approach and the humane characterization marked the beginning of Dahl's accession to the elite of the genre's authors in Scandinavia alongside some of the most respected names in Norway such as those of Karin Fossum, Gunnar Staalesen, and Thomas Enger. Her next two novels, The Heart Keeper and Playdate solidified and further amplified her reputation among her peers, paving the way to her best work until now, Cabin Fever, a claustrophobic thriller brimming with symbolisms and employing some of the author's trademark tropes mainly regarding the challenges that modern women face as well as the burden of secrets and their devastating consequences to the individual and those around him. Dahl is a writer who has her ear down to the ground and feels the pulse of her era, reflecting her acumen on page.
To read my full review, visit https://tapthelinemag.com/post/after-...
To read my full review, visit https://tapthelinemag.com/post/after-...
August 23, 2022
This is thrilling book from the start, where we are introduced to the lead characters. The book is written from each of the the main characters point of view. Selma, a journalist who has uncovered a dark side of the modelling world and is about to reveal it to the public. Adrian, a young boy who lives in Sandefjord with his mother Liv and Anastasia a young model. Liv has a past that she has hidden and it’s about to become her present. This is a really timely story and I have loved the authors other books and this one is amazing. Dark, fast paced and compelling there is no let up in the tension as the story progresses, if you are like me you will not want to put the book until you have read through the twisty, turny story to the finale which I definitely did not see coming !
August 18, 2022
After she'd gone by Alex Dahl.
Liv is In sandefjord, Norway. She keeps a low profile trying to make ends meet. She will do anything to protect her son.
Really enjoyed this book. Wasn't sure if I liked Liv or not. I did like Selma. This is a tense book. 4*.
Liv is In sandefjord, Norway. She keeps a low profile trying to make ends meet. She will do anything to protect her son.
Really enjoyed this book. Wasn't sure if I liked Liv or not. I did like Selma. This is a tense book. 4*.
July 17, 2022
Told in first and third person, After She'd Gone is told in the perspectives of three very different women whose stories interconnect seamlessly. Not only that but it is told in first and third person. Author Alex Dahl's writing skills are unfathomable, her insight into human nature is brilliant and each word is organized with finesse. I cannot imagine transferring thoughts to paper with unsettling vividness, both haunting and beautiful . It is impossible to convey my thoughts lucidly as my mind has been blown to shreds!
Single deaf mother Liv lives in seclusion in Norway with her beloved nine-year-old son who is neurodivergent. Disabilities are written with lovely sensitivity. The unshakeable bond between mother and son is gorgeous, my favourite part of the book. Liv's life has not been easy, she tries to hide from her past but it catches up with her, causing physical and emotional agony to both her and sweet Adrian.
Selma is a noted journalist in Oslo who is disappointed to have an impassioned story of hers cut. She becomes involved in the case of her life as she researches the disappearance of a mother and her son and encounters dark criminal activity and secrets she did not see coming. Sins cast very long shadows.
Anastasia reluctantly leaves Russia for Milan for life as a model. Her initiation is incredibly difficult but she does what she feels she needs to do as she is financially strapped. She is revered and reviled and has what many would call the perfect life with loads of money, great beauty and is constantly in high demand. But her life is not as it appears on the outside. When money and material goods are stripped away a shell remains. All three women have secrets, regrets and hopes.
Engaging, engrossing, riveting and suspenseful do not even begin to cover it. Thriller readers ought to place this book at the top of their to read piles.
My sincere thank you to Head of Zeus and NetGalley for the privilege of reading this memorable rollercoaster of a book, absolutely top notch and unmissable.
Single deaf mother Liv lives in seclusion in Norway with her beloved nine-year-old son who is neurodivergent. Disabilities are written with lovely sensitivity. The unshakeable bond between mother and son is gorgeous, my favourite part of the book. Liv's life has not been easy, she tries to hide from her past but it catches up with her, causing physical and emotional agony to both her and sweet Adrian.
Selma is a noted journalist in Oslo who is disappointed to have an impassioned story of hers cut. She becomes involved in the case of her life as she researches the disappearance of a mother and her son and encounters dark criminal activity and secrets she did not see coming. Sins cast very long shadows.
Anastasia reluctantly leaves Russia for Milan for life as a model. Her initiation is incredibly difficult but she does what she feels she needs to do as she is financially strapped. She is revered and reviled and has what many would call the perfect life with loads of money, great beauty and is constantly in high demand. But her life is not as it appears on the outside. When money and material goods are stripped away a shell remains. All three women have secrets, regrets and hopes.
Engaging, engrossing, riveting and suspenseful do not even begin to cover it. Thriller readers ought to place this book at the top of their to read piles.
My sincere thank you to Head of Zeus and NetGalley for the privilege of reading this memorable rollercoaster of a book, absolutely top notch and unmissable.
July 8, 2022
Wow. I’m glad I started this book during time off from work because I couldn’t put it down!
It is told from four points of view - three strong, impressive women and a young boy who is bullied because he is different (the author introduced me to a new term - neurodiverse.)
Liv is a single mom living in Norway. She does everything for her son, Adrian. They live a secretive life and she keeps him safe - but from what we aren’t told.
Norway is also home to Selma, who is a gutsy reporter who has recently helped to solve a high profile missing person case. So when another person goes missing, she is intrigued and begins investigating.
Anastasia is a beautiful Russian young lady who is spotted and offered a modeling contract in Italy. That’s where the action starts as we explore the dark underbelly of the modeling industry and what happens to young ladies trying to succeed.
This is my first book from Dahl, but I will definitely read her more. Her characters and settings are well-described and diverse. She doesn’t go overboard with metaphors, yet still manages to create vivid pictures in the reader’s mind. She’s a very good writer and leaves twists along the way. Great ending, as well.
Thanks to Netgalley and Head of Zeus for a copy of this book.
It is told from four points of view - three strong, impressive women and a young boy who is bullied because he is different (the author introduced me to a new term - neurodiverse.)
Liv is a single mom living in Norway. She does everything for her son, Adrian. They live a secretive life and she keeps him safe - but from what we aren’t told.
Norway is also home to Selma, who is a gutsy reporter who has recently helped to solve a high profile missing person case. So when another person goes missing, she is intrigued and begins investigating.
Anastasia is a beautiful Russian young lady who is spotted and offered a modeling contract in Italy. That’s where the action starts as we explore the dark underbelly of the modeling industry and what happens to young ladies trying to succeed.
This is my first book from Dahl, but I will definitely read her more. Her characters and settings are well-described and diverse. She doesn’t go overboard with metaphors, yet still manages to create vivid pictures in the reader’s mind. She’s a very good writer and leaves twists along the way. Great ending, as well.
Thanks to Netgalley and Head of Zeus for a copy of this book.
August 17, 2022
This is a well-written, gripping thriller taking a look at the dark side of the modeling world. The story is told from 4 different perspectives: model Anastasia, journalist Selma, secretive Liv and Liv’s son Adrian. All have very distinct voices and bring something unique to the table, but it was Adrian’s POV that I loved the most. The relationship between him and his mother is the true standout element of this novel.
Despite guessing a lot of the twist correctly, the way Dahl slowly reveals information through the different viewpoints kept me engaged. It was great to see how she brought everything together in quite an explosive finale.
One thing that has to be pointed out that this book truly showcases the horror the women in this book have to go through, so the violence it very graphic and might not be for everyone.
Overall, I was impressed with Dahl’s writing and cannot wait to check out her other books in the future!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a free copy in exchange for an honest review!
TW: violence, abuse, human trafficking and more (please check out a full list of trigger warnings before reading!)
Despite guessing a lot of the twist correctly, the way Dahl slowly reveals information through the different viewpoints kept me engaged. It was great to see how she brought everything together in quite an explosive finale.
One thing that has to be pointed out that this book truly showcases the horror the women in this book have to go through, so the violence it very graphic and might not be for everyone.
Overall, I was impressed with Dahl’s writing and cannot wait to check out her other books in the future!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a free copy in exchange for an honest review!
TW: violence, abuse, human trafficking and more (please check out a full list of trigger warnings before reading!)
October 19, 2023
Разочароващо...
April 10, 2024
Good although quite graphic. Almost needs a trigger warning. Good enough action to keep you interested and ended up making for a quick read. Ending was a bit rushed and some spots were repetitive
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 1, 2024
Тази книга много ме изненада, не очаквах тази развръзка. Много добра
August 11, 2022
This is a novel set in various parts of Europe, told from four perspectives. You have Adrian, a young neurodivergent boy, and his mother Liv that go missing early on in the novel. We also get the perspective of Selma, a reporter trying to track them down and Anastasia a model that is trying to find her way in the competitive world of Italian modeling. I enjoyed the differing perspectives and eagerly anticipated their intertwining. It did take me 15-20% of the book to get into it but after that I couldn’t put it down.
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This book looks at the dirty side of the fashion world and what happens to the girls that don’t make it. There is more than one mystery keeping this plot line moving forward and keeping you guessing.
.
While some pieces I caught onto early, it felt like we were supposed to. Other parts had me guessing until the end.
.
This is a great thriller {with TWs for sexual abuse and drug use} that I would recommend you pick up when it comes out in ONE WEEK!
.
This book looks at the dirty side of the fashion world and what happens to the girls that don’t make it. There is more than one mystery keeping this plot line moving forward and keeping you guessing.
.
While some pieces I caught onto early, it felt like we were supposed to. Other parts had me guessing until the end.
.
This is a great thriller {with TWs for sexual abuse and drug use} that I would recommend you pick up when it comes out in ONE WEEK!
August 5, 2022
Liv keeps a low profile in Sandefjord, Norway: she's just another tired single mother, trying to make ends meet. She has never told her son about the secrets she carries or the life she lived before he was born. She will do anything to keep him safe.
Anastasia's life is transformed when she moves from Russia to Milan to work as a model. She's rich. She's desired. But there's a dark side to the high-pressure catwalk shows; the sun-baked Italian palazzos; the drink-fuelled after-parties hosted by powerful men. Soon, she will do anything to escape.
Selma is a journalist in Oslo. She's investigating scandals in the modelling industry, but can't get her article published. Then a woman goes missing in Sandefjord. Now Selma is about to uncover the biggest story of her life...
Really enjoyable read totally recommend
Thank You NetGalley and Head Of Zeus
I just reviewed After She'd Gone by Alex Dahl. #AfterShedGone #NetGalley
Anastasia's life is transformed when she moves from Russia to Milan to work as a model. She's rich. She's desired. But there's a dark side to the high-pressure catwalk shows; the sun-baked Italian palazzos; the drink-fuelled after-parties hosted by powerful men. Soon, she will do anything to escape.
Selma is a journalist in Oslo. She's investigating scandals in the modelling industry, but can't get her article published. Then a woman goes missing in Sandefjord. Now Selma is about to uncover the biggest story of her life...
Really enjoyable read totally recommend
Thank You NetGalley and Head Of Zeus
I just reviewed After She'd Gone by Alex Dahl. #AfterShedGone #NetGalley
July 8, 2022
A thoroughly gripping murder mystery that I read breathlessly in 2 days. I couldn’t put it down. What a story! It’s almost a year to the day since I read my first Alex Dahl (‘Cabin Fever’), but this latest offering is even better. It’s a fast-paced, adrenaline-fuelled ride that takes place mainly in Norway and Italy. There are multiple character threads and interestingly multiple POV modes of narration, plus plenty of twists and turns and an explosive, climactic ending.
Utterly engrossing. Try it – you won’t be disappointed!
My thanks to NetGalley and, as ever, Head of Zeus for granting this e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Utterly engrossing. Try it – you won’t be disappointed!
My thanks to NetGalley and, as ever, Head of Zeus for granting this e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 144 reviews