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Arles Shepherd #1
The Usual Silence
A psychologist haunted by childhood trauma must unearth all that is buried in her past in this twisting, lyrical novel of suspense by Mary Higgins Clark Award–winning author Jenny Milchman.
Psychologist Arles Shepherd treats troubled children, struggling with each case to recover from her own traumatic past, much of which she’s lost to the shadows of memory. Having just set up a new kind of treatment center in the remote Adirondack wilderness, Arles longs to heal one patient in particular: a ten-year-old boy who has never spoken a word—or so his mother, Louise, believes.
Hundreds of miles away, Cass Monroe is living a parent’s worst nightmare. His twelve-year-old daughter has vanished on her way home from school. With no clues, no witnesses, and no trail, the police are at a dead end. Fighting a heart that was already ailing, and struggling to keep both his marriage and himself alive, Cass turns to a pair of true-crime podcasters for help.
Arles, Louise, and Cass will soon find their lives entangled in ways none of them could have anticipated. And when the collision occurs, a quarter-century-old secret will be forced out of hiding. Because nothing screams louder than silence.
Psychologist Arles Shepherd treats troubled children, struggling with each case to recover from her own traumatic past, much of which she’s lost to the shadows of memory. Having just set up a new kind of treatment center in the remote Adirondack wilderness, Arles longs to heal one patient in particular: a ten-year-old boy who has never spoken a word—or so his mother, Louise, believes.
Hundreds of miles away, Cass Monroe is living a parent’s worst nightmare. His twelve-year-old daughter has vanished on her way home from school. With no clues, no witnesses, and no trail, the police are at a dead end. Fighting a heart that was already ailing, and struggling to keep both his marriage and himself alive, Cass turns to a pair of true-crime podcasters for help.
Arles, Louise, and Cass will soon find their lives entangled in ways none of them could have anticipated. And when the collision occurs, a quarter-century-old secret will be forced out of hiding. Because nothing screams louder than silence.
362 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 1, 2024
7086 people are currently reading
7132 people want to read
About the author
Jenny Milchman
17 books624 followersJenny Milchman is the USA Today bestselling author of three novels, as well as the forthcoming Wicked River. Her books have won the Mary Higgins Clark and Silver Falchion awards, been praised by the New York Times, San Francisco Review of Books, the AP, and many other publications.
Jenny has given over five hundred workshops and talks on the writing and publishing process. She sits on the board of directors of International Thriller Writers, is a member of the Sisters in Crime speakers bureau, and founded Take Your Child to a Bookstore Day, which is celebrated annually in all fifty states and on five continents.
Jenny has given over five hundred workshops and talks on the writing and publishing process. She sits on the board of directors of International Thriller Writers, is a member of the Sisters in Crime speakers bureau, and founded Take Your Child to a Bookstore Day, which is celebrated annually in all fifty states and on five continents.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 426 reviews
September 28, 2024
writing : didn't mind it | plot: lmfao | ending: now I know you're trolling
my opinion
It's been a minute since I wrote a full-length review so of course I had to come back in full-hater mode. Yes, kindness is free, but so is being a hater when you really think about it. AnYwAyS. Other reviewers said her writing was overly detailed, which means I must be off my game because I didn't think it was bad. They also said the book was hard to get into, yet I found myself most intrigued by the first 25-30% so CLEARLY I've lost my touch (or did I ever have it?) and ya'll should ignore me.
I liked the approach with three seemingly disparate stories and I was keen to see how it would all come together. Unfortunately that's where the good times stop. Similar to Made for You, it felt like the author wanted to write all the things, serving up Rachel Green's Thanksgiving Trifle. Also, a lot of stuff just didn't add up, many storyline seemed to be forgotten along the way, and my personal least favourite—you could hear the author's voice in the book. Lines like these Okay, Boomer, Bea sometimes kidded, a joke she was too young to understand. It wasn’t even apt—he was a good eleven years younger. Gen X. made me feel like I was reading the author's Burn Book, they were so out of left field and irrelevant to the story.
This book is packed with attempted virtue signalling. I say attempted because while Cass (male) chides himself for describing a woman as a 'girl', we're treated to multiple fat-shamey comments. No one is perfect, lord knows the memes I've screenshotted are sending me straight to hell, but if you're going out of your way to show how 'woke' the characters are, keep that shit TIGHT.
If I had to vote one of the three main characters off the island it would be Arles. Her story was the worst. There were some highly questionable 'just vibes' moments (cleaning, decorating, and reopening a massive, abandoned children's ward with multiple cabins in a matter of days without any professional help AND hiring the woman you found squatting in said ward to teach children despite her only credential being she homeschooled her young daughter???). Also the whole romance with Dan The Oil Delivery Man should've been red-lined. It added nothing to the story. I understand why Arles was a 'catch flights not feelings' type of woman , but every scene of her trying to push Dan away made me cringe. It was soooo corny.
Lawd. This has gone on too long. So I'll wrap it up by talking about the ending. Okay cool, we got some sort of resolution for Bea's story, but what about Louise and Arles????? Hellurrr???? Come back here and explain please??????
Btw if you're reading this book and stumble upon my review, you can skip any scene with the Merritts. Another storyline that no one would've missed if it had stayed in the drafts. What a waste of pages, especially as we neared the climax of the novel. Girl can we focus on bamboozling Louise so you can close some childhood trauma loop instead of using the Merritts to illustrate misogyny?? The pedophile stepfather took care of that, I promise.
Ok byeeeee!!!!
my opinion
It's been a minute since I wrote a full-length review so of course I had to come back in full-hater mode. Yes, kindness is free, but so is being a hater when you really think about it. AnYwAyS. Other reviewers said her writing was overly detailed, which means I must be off my game because I didn't think it was bad. They also said the book was hard to get into, yet I found myself most intrigued by the first 25-30% so CLEARLY I've lost my touch (or did I ever have it?) and ya'll should ignore me.
I liked the approach with three seemingly disparate stories and I was keen to see how it would all come together. Unfortunately that's where the good times stop. Similar to Made for You, it felt like the author wanted to write all the things, serving up Rachel Green's Thanksgiving Trifle. Also, a lot of stuff just didn't add up, many storyline seemed to be forgotten along the way, and my personal least favourite—you could hear the author's voice in the book. Lines like these Okay, Boomer, Bea sometimes kidded, a joke she was too young to understand. It wasn’t even apt—he was a good eleven years younger. Gen X. made me feel like I was reading the author's Burn Book, they were so out of left field and irrelevant to the story.
This book is packed with attempted virtue signalling. I say attempted because while Cass (male) chides himself for describing a woman as a 'girl', we're treated to multiple fat-shamey comments. No one is perfect, lord knows the memes I've screenshotted are sending me straight to hell, but if you're going out of your way to show how 'woke' the characters are, keep that shit TIGHT.
If I had to vote one of the three main characters off the island it would be Arles. Her story was the worst. There were some highly questionable 'just vibes' moments (cleaning, decorating, and reopening a massive, abandoned children's ward with multiple cabins in a matter of days without any professional help AND hiring the woman you found squatting in said ward to teach children despite her only credential being she homeschooled her young daughter???). Also the whole romance with Dan The Oil Delivery Man should've been red-lined. It added nothing to the story. I understand why Arles was a 'catch flights not feelings' type of woman , but every scene of her trying to push Dan away made me cringe. It was soooo corny.
Lawd. This has gone on too long. So I'll wrap it up by talking about the ending. Okay cool, we got some sort of resolution for Bea's story, but what about Louise and Arles????? Hellurrr???? Come back here and explain please??????
Btw if you're reading this book and stumble upon my review, you can skip any scene with the Merritts. Another storyline that no one would've missed if it had stayed in the drafts. What a waste of pages, especially as we neared the climax of the novel. Girl can we focus on bamboozling Louise so you can close some childhood trauma loop instead of using the Merritts to illustrate misogyny?? The pedophile stepfather took care of that, I promise.
Ok byeeeee!!!!
April 30, 2024
That was a whole lot of story packed into one book. 🤯 It was kinda difficult to follow and at times felt convoluted. I understand it’s 3 different storylines and the plot is to see how they come together in the end, but the alternating stories made it more difficult to become fully invested in the characters. The transitions just did not flow smoothly. When all was revealed, it did make it somewhat worth the journey, but I just didn’t connect with the layout of this particular book. I did like the author’s writing though so I’d be willing to read another of her books.
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for the opportunity to read this digital ARC. All opinions expressed are my own.
Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for the opportunity to read this digital ARC. All opinions expressed are my own.
September 3, 2024
It’s a no from me, dawg
May 26, 2024
Thankyou @netgalley for my #arccopy of The Unusual silence by Jenny Milchman.
This book had all the trappings of an unbeatable thriller but it just didn’t land. I can tell that the authors intention was to have various storylines that seemed completely unrelated to come to a head in the climax. It didn’t work for me.
I felt like if only one of those stories was picked and focused on this would’ve been an amazing book.
My favorite parts:
The way the author narrates and explains the trials of a mother with an autistic child is spectacular! I truly felt her struggles and her anxiety. I would’ve loved for this book to be solely from her and perspective.
Things I didn’t like:
Arles, the main protagonist. She felt more of a caricature of someone with deep wounds than someone real.
Also, I wish the editor would add the names of the people on the chapters so it’s easier to know that the perspective has switched. Especially because there are so many of them to keep track of. I found that especially disorienting.
Overall I think this book was a miss for me.
This book had all the trappings of an unbeatable thriller but it just didn’t land. I can tell that the authors intention was to have various storylines that seemed completely unrelated to come to a head in the climax. It didn’t work for me.
I felt like if only one of those stories was picked and focused on this would’ve been an amazing book.
My favorite parts:
The way the author narrates and explains the trials of a mother with an autistic child is spectacular! I truly felt her struggles and her anxiety. I would’ve loved for this book to be solely from her and perspective.
Things I didn’t like:
Arles, the main protagonist. She felt more of a caricature of someone with deep wounds than someone real.
Also, I wish the editor would add the names of the people on the chapters so it’s easier to know that the perspective has switched. Especially because there are so many of them to keep track of. I found that especially disorienting.
Overall I think this book was a miss for me.
September 5, 2024
I… just no. Disjointed. Confusing.
Disjointed. Pointless scenes. Probably one of the top 5 worst books I ever read. Not being mean, just honest. It reads like a first draft that needs about ten more.
Disjointed. Pointless scenes. Probably one of the top 5 worst books I ever read. Not being mean, just honest. It reads like a first draft that needs about ten more.
September 16, 2024
✨B O O K • F E A T U R E✨
#ad I received a gifted copy of this book - many thanks to @jennymilchman + @booksforwardpr #partner
The Usual Silence // Releases: September 17, 2024
This is also a First Reads for Amazon
“These parents worried about stupid stuff because they had nothing real to fear,” (39).
While this book deals with topics that many could find triggering, I have to say that this book doesn’t go to those darker places, instead it explores the impact it has on children and adults.
This was a great story with a main character I don’t think anyone will be able to forget. Well written the story draws you in from the start. You’ll enjoy this one.
A haunting portrait of trauma that offers a glimmer of hope.
I’m so excited to know that there is another book in the works! Arles Shepherd will be seen again.
#ad I received a gifted copy of this book - many thanks to @jennymilchman + @booksforwardpr #partner
The Usual Silence // Releases: September 17, 2024
This is also a First Reads for Amazon
“These parents worried about stupid stuff because they had nothing real to fear,” (39).
While this book deals with topics that many could find triggering, I have to say that this book doesn’t go to those darker places, instead it explores the impact it has on children and adults.
This was a great story with a main character I don’t think anyone will be able to forget. Well written the story draws you in from the start. You’ll enjoy this one.
A haunting portrait of trauma that offers a glimmer of hope.
I’m so excited to know that there is another book in the works! Arles Shepherd will be seen again.
February 4, 2025
The Usual Silence is the first book in the Arles Shepherd Thriller series by award-winning, best-selling American author, Jennifer Milchman. When her dismissal from Wedeskyull County Hospital coincides with an online result on the woman for whom she’s been searching for decades, psychologist Arles Shepherd takes the opportunity to turn a secluded family retreat in the Adirondack woods into a wellness centre specialising in family therapy.
Getting control of the property, setting it all up, and getting Louise Drake and her ten-year-old son to come, all take some doing, but Arles is resourceful. “Very bad things had happened in this place, and the rooms held on to their residue like creosote in the twelve -foot-wide chimney. Poisonous events within these walls, on the sweeping front porch, and in a hunting blind high in a tree in the woods in pursuit of a stag.” Overcoming the bad feelings the place has always held is another challenge, but effectively distracting her are a very hot fuel supplier, a pair of squatters and, eventually, her first clients.
Meanwhile, jobless after a warehouse shutdown, Cassius Monroe watches over his twelve-year-old daughter, Bea while her mother, Maggie works two jobs to pay their bills. He’s understandably distraught when Bea gets off the school buss but doesn’t make it home while he naps. Search teams, dogs and drones find nothing, but near a favourite spot in the woods, he finds a tiny trace of their daughter. His helplessness is marginally eased by interacting with two young women who do a true-crime podcast.
Louise Drake’s life changed beyond recognition eight years ago when her son, Geary stopped talking soon after he turned two. The autism diagnosis eventually saw the break-up of her marriage: she has always believed there’s more going on inside Geary’s head than her ex, Michael will accept, but lately, she feels something is upsetting him. She hopes that transition to a new therapist who specialises in family therapy might be a positive step.
Milchman uses three narrators to tell the story, interspersed with an anonymous narrative that details the experience of a twelve-year-old girl captive in a van with a man. The story features child abuse and trauma, enabling partners, eating disorders, PTSD, and controlling partners. Milchman’s descriptive prose easily evokes the setting, and the plot has plenty of intrigue and a good twist to keep the pages turning right up to the resolution. More of this cast in book two, The Fairest, will be eagerly anticipated.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer.
Getting control of the property, setting it all up, and getting Louise Drake and her ten-year-old son to come, all take some doing, but Arles is resourceful. “Very bad things had happened in this place, and the rooms held on to their residue like creosote in the twelve -foot-wide chimney. Poisonous events within these walls, on the sweeping front porch, and in a hunting blind high in a tree in the woods in pursuit of a stag.” Overcoming the bad feelings the place has always held is another challenge, but effectively distracting her are a very hot fuel supplier, a pair of squatters and, eventually, her first clients.
Meanwhile, jobless after a warehouse shutdown, Cassius Monroe watches over his twelve-year-old daughter, Bea while her mother, Maggie works two jobs to pay their bills. He’s understandably distraught when Bea gets off the school buss but doesn’t make it home while he naps. Search teams, dogs and drones find nothing, but near a favourite spot in the woods, he finds a tiny trace of their daughter. His helplessness is marginally eased by interacting with two young women who do a true-crime podcast.
Louise Drake’s life changed beyond recognition eight years ago when her son, Geary stopped talking soon after he turned two. The autism diagnosis eventually saw the break-up of her marriage: she has always believed there’s more going on inside Geary’s head than her ex, Michael will accept, but lately, she feels something is upsetting him. She hopes that transition to a new therapist who specialises in family therapy might be a positive step.
Milchman uses three narrators to tell the story, interspersed with an anonymous narrative that details the experience of a twelve-year-old girl captive in a van with a man. The story features child abuse and trauma, enabling partners, eating disorders, PTSD, and controlling partners. Milchman’s descriptive prose easily evokes the setting, and the plot has plenty of intrigue and a good twist to keep the pages turning right up to the resolution. More of this cast in book two, The Fairest, will be eagerly anticipated.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer.
May 16, 2025
Awful.
September 29, 2024
“𝐌𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐜𝐮𝐭 𝐬𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐩𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐧 𝐤𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐬.”
For the most part, I felt this was a pretty average thriller... though there are a couple of things I'd like to address here in a moment. It took me a minute to get into the story (about 20%) but the rest was finished in less than 24 hours. Just to preface here again even though I have marked a spoiler warning, I will be talking about a plot hole that has to do with the twist. Unfortunately I have to start out with the cons solely because they're at the forefront of my mind after finishing this one.
Cons
The Pacing/Structure: This really threw me for a loop and was a major part of my very slow start. The book is split into three stories that eventually converge... but it's incredibly confusing and, at times, convoluted. The story, because it is split up into three separate pieces, really has a hard time flowing together. It throws off the pacing and really made it hard to wand to keep reading up until about the 20% point.
Character/Reader Relationship: Personally, because of the number of characters and how often the story jumps around, I had a hard time fully connecting with these characters. While I absolutely do feel for a lot of these characters, I didn't really care for many of them... and I think a huge part of that comes from how often we switch perspectives throughout the book.
Predictable/Possible Plot Hole: There is nothing wrong with a predictable book if the book itself is written well. And here, while it was predictable, I did enjoy putting the pieces of this story together. That being said, I don't really think there is anything incredibly jaw dropping which I know can be off-putting to those of us who read thrillers on a consistent basis.
!! SPOILER WARNING !!
I think I've bashed on this book enough, so onto my pros:
The Writing: While I didn't enjoy the structural layout of the book, I did enjoy the Milchman's writing style. It's very easy to visualize and follow when it isn't interrupted by the random splits in the story.
*Relatively* Enjoyable Storyline: As I stated earlier, I did actually find some enjoyment in this story. Putting the pieces together and figuring out the mystery by myself was a fun little challenge. There are plenty of parts throughout that I felt were enjoyable and kept me reading past the 50% mark.
Now getting to the end of writing my review I actually think I may need to lower my rating (as of right now it's at a 3). While there were parts of the story I enjoyed, overall I think the cons really have to sink the rating a little bit more for me. Overall, it really wasn't a terrible read in the moment. But looking back I definitely have some issues with it. If you're an avid thriller reader like myself, this one may be one you skip.
Thank you Books Forward and the author for a chance to read this one. While it wasn't entirely for me, I'm sure there are others out there who will thoroughly enjoy it! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
For the most part, I felt this was a pretty average thriller... though there are a couple of things I'd like to address here in a moment. It took me a minute to get into the story (about 20%) but the rest was finished in less than 24 hours. Just to preface here again even though I have marked a spoiler warning, I will be talking about a plot hole that has to do with the twist. Unfortunately I have to start out with the cons solely because they're at the forefront of my mind after finishing this one.
Cons
The Pacing/Structure: This really threw me for a loop and was a major part of my very slow start. The book is split into three stories that eventually converge... but it's incredibly confusing and, at times, convoluted. The story, because it is split up into three separate pieces, really has a hard time flowing together. It throws off the pacing and really made it hard to wand to keep reading up until about the 20% point.
Character/Reader Relationship: Personally, because of the number of characters and how often the story jumps around, I had a hard time fully connecting with these characters. While I absolutely do feel for a lot of these characters, I didn't really care for many of them... and I think a huge part of that comes from how often we switch perspectives throughout the book.
Predictable/Possible Plot Hole: There is nothing wrong with a predictable book if the book itself is written well. And here, while it was predictable, I did enjoy putting the pieces of this story together. That being said, I don't really think there is anything incredibly jaw dropping which I know can be off-putting to those of us who read thrillers on a consistent basis.
!! SPOILER WARNING !!
I think I've bashed on this book enough, so onto my pros:
The Writing: While I didn't enjoy the structural layout of the book, I did enjoy the Milchman's writing style. It's very easy to visualize and follow when it isn't interrupted by the random splits in the story.
*Relatively* Enjoyable Storyline: As I stated earlier, I did actually find some enjoyment in this story. Putting the pieces together and figuring out the mystery by myself was a fun little challenge. There are plenty of parts throughout that I felt were enjoyable and kept me reading past the 50% mark.
Now getting to the end of writing my review I actually think I may need to lower my rating (as of right now it's at a 3). While there were parts of the story I enjoyed, overall I think the cons really have to sink the rating a little bit more for me. Overall, it really wasn't a terrible read in the moment. But looking back I definitely have some issues with it. If you're an avid thriller reader like myself, this one may be one you skip.
Thank you Books Forward and the author for a chance to read this one. While it wasn't entirely for me, I'm sure there are others out there who will thoroughly enjoy it! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 31, 2024
When a therapist with significant child trauma finds the person she’s been looking for the last 25 years, but can’t remember why, she hatches a plan to treat the woman’s autistic son at a residential treatment facility in the woods of upstate NY. Their stories collide unexpectedly with the family of a missing girl from Maine.
The two storylines occurred simultaneously, but took a very long time to connect. The build up was slow. Finally, in the last quarter of the book, things start to happen… One after the other. So many calls to 911. So many red flags. All at once! I did find myself eager to know the ending, but not until the last 70 pages or so.
This story has no cell service deep in the woods, childhood trauma all around, oblivious parents, abuse, neglect, eating disorders, autism, secrets… red herrings are abundant. And what happened to Dan? I still have so many questions - I guess that’s why this is Arles #1.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for the honest review!
The two storylines occurred simultaneously, but took a very long time to connect. The build up was slow. Finally, in the last quarter of the book, things start to happen… One after the other. So many calls to 911. So many red flags. All at once! I did find myself eager to know the ending, but not until the last 70 pages or so.
This story has no cell service deep in the woods, childhood trauma all around, oblivious parents, abuse, neglect, eating disorders, autism, secrets… red herrings are abundant. And what happened to Dan? I still have so many questions - I guess that’s why this is Arles #1.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for the honest review!
October 10, 2024
2.5 stars? I think?
This is a tough one because I really like the author’s actual writing and the audiobook narration but good lord this was convoluted. The ending made the journey somewhat worth it - but this book felt so intent on exploring every single character’s inner traumas that it felt disjointed at times. I get that we’re getting 3 distinctly separate POVs, but it’s just too much.
Some things of note - as much as I get why Arles showing her distaste for romance/men is important to her character, her little fling added nothing to this story. The idea that a mental health professional would hire a random woman squatting in her basement to teach children in a residential facility based off one conversation about homeschooling is WILD.
Overall, this book is fine if you don’t think about it too much because the ending does wrap up fairly nicely. But the journey to get there was not for me.
Thank you to brilliance publishing & NetGalley for the ALC of this book ✨
This is a tough one because I really like the author’s actual writing and the audiobook narration but good lord this was convoluted. The ending made the journey somewhat worth it - but this book felt so intent on exploring every single character’s inner traumas that it felt disjointed at times. I get that we’re getting 3 distinctly separate POVs, but it’s just too much.
Some things of note - as much as I get why Arles showing her distaste for romance/men is important to her character, her little fling added nothing to this story. The idea that a mental health professional would hire a random woman squatting in her basement to teach children in a residential facility based off one conversation about homeschooling is WILD.
Overall, this book is fine if you don’t think about it too much because the ending does wrap up fairly nicely. But the journey to get there was not for me.
Thank you to brilliance publishing & NetGalley for the ALC of this book ✨
October 8, 2024
I thought I was going to love THE USUAL SILENCE by Jenny Milchman. I’m a retired child psychologist. Reading about those in my profession takes me back to my younger days WHEN it’s done well. THE USUAL SILENCE is not.
As much as I sympathized with Arles, I hated the way she was written with such little insight. Even if she hadn’t committed illegal behavior she’d have been guilty malpractice for continuing to work while psychologically impaired.
Cass, Bea’s father was the only character for whom I felt genuine empathy and the only part of the storyline I cared about.
THE USUAL SILENCE was disjointed and uneven. I often considered giving up and DNF, but I prevailed to the contrived ending.
As much as I sympathized with Arles, I hated the way she was written with such little insight. Even if she hadn’t committed illegal behavior she’d have been guilty malpractice for continuing to work while psychologically impaired.
Cass, Bea’s father was the only character for whom I felt genuine empathy and the only part of the storyline I cared about.
THE USUAL SILENCE was disjointed and uneven. I often considered giving up and DNF, but I prevailed to the contrived ending.
September 28, 2024
"The Usual Silence" was my Prime First Reads pick for September 2024. I absolutely loved this book!
Obviously, the missing girl somehow tied into either Arles' story or that of one of her patients. Trying to piece it all together was the fun part. I wasn't even close. 🤦♀️ I found this book hard to put down. I did want more at the end... like a prologue to give an update on some of the other characters. That's my only complaint. This appears to be introducing a series. I'll be on the lookout for book 2.
I also have to mention that I loved the inclusion of an Autistic character in this book. As the mom of an autistic son, I very much appreciated not only the inclusion but also some of the explanations given to educate readers who don't have any experience with Autism. Thank you, Jenny Milchman, for helping to spread some awareness!
Obviously, the missing girl somehow tied into either Arles' story or that of one of her patients. Trying to piece it all together was the fun part. I wasn't even close. 🤦♀️ I found this book hard to put down. I did want more at the end... like a prologue to give an update on some of the other characters. That's my only complaint. This appears to be introducing a series. I'll be on the lookout for book 2.
I also have to mention that I loved the inclusion of an Autistic character in this book. As the mom of an autistic son, I very much appreciated not only the inclusion but also some of the explanations given to educate readers who don't have any experience with Autism. Thank you, Jenny Milchman, for helping to spread some awareness!
September 30, 2024
This was both a hit and a miss for me. Having multiple storylines which bounced back and forth was a bit disorienting. It was also slow moving because of these storylines. Halfway through, I considered making this a DNF, but I plugged along. I was rewarded in the end with a satisfying conclusion. For survivors of traumatic childhoods, this may be triggering. I appreciated that although it dealt with a great deal of violence and what that leaves behind, the author kept the darkness from being explored too deeply, it was just enough to skim over the horror of that life. It was a solid read, just practice your patience.
December 24, 2024
This was a really interesting story. There was a lot going on and it took me awhile to get into a groove but when I did, I couldn’t put it down.
I don’t want to give anything away but among the crossing story lines we have Arles, a therapist who has an almost obsessive interest in Louise, whose son Geary is autistic but may be misdiagnosed and who is increasingly presenting more challenges to his mother on a daily basis.
There are lots of flashbacks, so the story slowly comes together piece by piece.
I agree with those who have said that the story has all the elements and potential of an amazing thriller, but that it couldn’t quite make the leap. I’m not sure what would have bridged that gap, though. I disagree with those who have said it was a mess or not put together, or who just said “no.” I think authors deserve more than just “no” in a reader’s feedback.
In any case, I did enjoy this. It had vibes that were just creepy enough to keep me wanting to see what would happen without scaring me off or boring me. If you like sneaky, unassuming thrillers then you will probably like this one!
I don’t want to give anything away but among the crossing story lines we have Arles, a therapist who has an almost obsessive interest in Louise, whose son Geary is autistic but may be misdiagnosed and who is increasingly presenting more challenges to his mother on a daily basis.
There are lots of flashbacks, so the story slowly comes together piece by piece.
I agree with those who have said that the story has all the elements and potential of an amazing thriller, but that it couldn’t quite make the leap. I’m not sure what would have bridged that gap, though. I disagree with those who have said it was a mess or not put together, or who just said “no.” I think authors deserve more than just “no” in a reader’s feedback.
In any case, I did enjoy this. It had vibes that were just creepy enough to keep me wanting to see what would happen without scaring me off or boring me. If you like sneaky, unassuming thrillers then you will probably like this one!
October 20, 2024
I never expected an audiobook to be so intense that it would leave me thinking about it long after it ended, but this one did. It weaves together two seemingly separate stories, each one gripping in its own way, and as they converge toward the end, the payoff is incredibly satisfying. I’ve always been fascinated by psychoanalysis, and the way the psychoanalyst’s character is written brought an extra layer of intrigue to the plot.
At times, the story felt almost chaotic, but there was something about that craziness that made me love it even more. The exploration of the human mind, the unexpected connections between the characters, and the sheer unpredictability of it all made for a truly captivating experience. It’s the kind of story that sticks with you – one that I found myself enjoying more and more as it went along.
At times, the story felt almost chaotic, but there was something about that craziness that made me love it even more. The exploration of the human mind, the unexpected connections between the characters, and the sheer unpredictability of it all made for a truly captivating experience. It’s the kind of story that sticks with you – one that I found myself enjoying more and more as it went along.
September 18, 2024
This book was really hard for me to get into. So hard that I almost didn’t finish it. It took until nearly halfway to simply get to the point.
With that said, the last 25% of the book was very easy to read. I was hopeful that the ending would make up for the slow start, but again I was disappointed. I liked the final few chapters but the book felt unfinished.
There was no real resolution between Arles and Louise. No follow up regarding Louise’s mother after Bea was recovered. Although we can assume, there was no account from Bea on what actually happened when she was taken.
With that said, the last 25% of the book was very easy to read. I was hopeful that the ending would make up for the slow start, but again I was disappointed. I liked the final few chapters but the book felt unfinished.
There was no real resolution between Arles and Louise. No follow up regarding Louise’s mother after Bea was recovered. Although we can assume, there was no account from Bea on what actually happened when she was taken.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 26, 2024
Generally enjoyed this story. It was tough reading going off from the start - characters not really fleshed out or memorable. Plot was kind of all over. But then things started to pick up and I started settling into the story.
September 17, 2024
This book was almost good. It was way to hard to follow and wtf Geary speaks but why don't we know what happened, what did he see? And why add Dan to the story if we aren't going to know their outcome as a couple.
This story would have been insanely good if it was tied up better but there are to many questions left. Like did the mother know? Did she help?
Underwhelmed af.
This story would have been insanely good if it was tied up better but there are to many questions left. Like did the mother know? Did she help?
Underwhelmed af.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 3, 2024
I’ve never read any of Milchman’s novels before, so I didn’t know what to expect from this (Amazon) First Read. I certainly didn’t expect a thriller that would have me holding my breath throughout the last 25 or so pages or have characters that I would come to care for so much. I was impressed. If you like intense thrillers in which everyone has secrets that slowly come to light, I recommend this story. However - Trigger Warning – be sure to read the description and topics involved before starting it, as it’s not for everyone. I think it’s a brilliantly put-together story with well-defined and interesting characters and I know I will be reading more Dr. Arles Shepherd novels. Probably some of Milchman's other fiction, as well. Because, in my opinion, Arles Shepherd is right up there with Lincoln Rhyme, one of my favorite characters.
September 27, 2024
This book was interesting. I appreciated the reality and stress related to childhood trauma and I thought that was well written. I do not think the therapist Arles was very mentally or emotionally healthy. There were several things that did not make sense. The first is when the main therapist Arles bullies the other therapist into giving up clients Louise and Geary. Not realistic. The huge part of the book that makes no sense is Arles opening up a treatment center in a beat up old house within a few days period and accepting clients. I can suspend my disbelief but in New York to get a certificate to do that would take months. There were logistical gaps that didn’t make sense. At the end I would like to have seen more hope and progress with Geary. Also the missing child story did come together at the end but trying to track that in addition to the other story lines was confusing.
September 30, 2024
This is an excellent example of someone writing a whole lot of different things and throwing it against the wall to see what sticks. This book was a slog. I'm tolerant of multiple storylines to an extent, but they need to make sense and be connected! Sadly that just didn't happen in this book.
There were so many storylines that looked like they were going somewhere and didn't, but worst of all none of it was believable! When your story is not believable it's just not going to be a good read. The only time unbelievable is good is with fantasy and horror - not thrillers and suspense. A big fat nope from me. 🤷♀️
There were so many storylines that looked like they were going somewhere and didn't, but worst of all none of it was believable! When your story is not believable it's just not going to be a good read. The only time unbelievable is good is with fantasy and horror - not thrillers and suspense. A big fat nope from me. 🤷♀️
December 18, 2025
The lives of a psychologist who just started her own practice for children and the family of a missing girl are intertwined in this tense psychological thriller set in the remote Adirondacks. The plot is quick-moving and there are a lot of surprises. I sometimes got confused with the back and forth of time periods and so many characters, but I enjoyed this nonetheless. For fans of Lisa Unger and Rene Denfeld.
Many thanks to Netgalley, Thomas & Mercer and Jenny Milchman for my complimentary e-book ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Many thanks to Netgalley, Thomas & Mercer and Jenny Milchman for my complimentary e-book ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
September 10, 2024
WOW! This was a DNF for me. This book is about an important topic. But the story is so convoluted, so disjointed... no flow that makes any sense for me. I tried really hard to get through it and maybe made 1/3 of the way through. The character changes are so quick and without warning, and you just can't get attached to any of them before the book moves on to another one - with ZERO warning. Impossibly difficult to follow.
May 27, 2025
not recommended
I always finish a book, even when I dislike it. This is one of those. I skipped thru a lot of paragraphs as it was so bogged down with senseless content. Horrible jumble of nonsensical gibberish. Do NOT recommend.
I always finish a book, even when I dislike it. This is one of those. I skipped thru a lot of paragraphs as it was so bogged down with senseless content. Horrible jumble of nonsensical gibberish. Do NOT recommend.
October 4, 2024
Okay so this book really can be hard to follow so attention to detail is important and I still felt there were loose ends with the book. Overall it was a okay read just attention to detail!
October 15, 2024
I had a lot of problems with this book, and the meandering plot was chief among them. It moved along so slowly, and it took detours that were unnecessary, which felt like driving to work behind a retired tourist with all the time in the world, stopping and slowing to look at every irrelevant thing.
Next, it was implausible. The story had potential, but Arles was broken and toxic and thoroughly ill-equipped to handle the enormous undertaking of single-handedly opening, running, and treating patients in a residential home. She herself has PTSD, largely untreated, and she blacks out, putting herself and others in danger.
It seemed to me the author either did a ton of research on PTSD, or she herself has experience, and that knowledge came across clearly. There were a lot of damage people in this book, some of whom got darker and scarier the more you knew about them. However, it also read like it was too much emotional stunting and suffering concentrated in these gathered characters.
The ending was sloppily pieced together and wholly untenable.
Overall, this book needed editing and guidance in taking the ideas in the author's mind and making them into a credible story. Too many things missed the mark.
Next, it was implausible. The story had potential, but Arles was broken and toxic and thoroughly ill-equipped to handle the enormous undertaking of single-handedly opening, running, and treating patients in a residential home. She herself has PTSD, largely untreated, and she blacks out, putting herself and others in danger.
It seemed to me the author either did a ton of research on PTSD, or she herself has experience, and that knowledge came across clearly. There were a lot of damage people in this book, some of whom got darker and scarier the more you knew about them. However, it also read like it was too much emotional stunting and suffering concentrated in these gathered characters.
The ending was sloppily pieced together and wholly untenable.
Overall, this book needed editing and guidance in taking the ideas in the author's mind and making them into a credible story. Too many things missed the mark.
September 5, 2024
This one had a lot of potential, and although it kept me engaged (to a certain point) there were a lot of “fits and starts” and convolutions that made the story drag a bit. Some things were glossed over and a little TOO easy, such as Arles managing to gain possession of a property she had previously been prevented from obtaining, and a wonderful psychological breakthrough by a family after only one or two group sessions. Sorry, but color me skeptical.
And while I certainly understand the brain’s ability to “forget” past trauma, Arles’ was very convenient and extreme.
Overall entertaining but not sure I’ll follow up with the next book in the series.
And while I certainly understand the brain’s ability to “forget” past trauma, Arles’ was very convenient and extreme.
Overall entertaining but not sure I’ll follow up with the next book in the series.
September 8, 2024
Arles, a therapist, is as troubled as her patients, possibly more. She loses her hospital job and starts a therapy service of her own at a secluded mountain estate that she inherited.
Arles is obsessed with an old picture that features an unknown girl who seems familiar. Arles considers the picture a link to her troubled past.
When Arles arrives at the estate, she discovers two squatters, Stephanie and her daughter, Lissa. Instead of throwing them out, she strikes a deal with the squatters who will receive free room and board in exchange for helping Arles run her business. They will handle home schooling and cooking duties.
Using advanced aging software and search bots, Arles locates the girl in the picture, now a woman, Louise, with an Autistic son, Geary, who cannot talk but has some secret capabilities.
Arles succeeds in luring Louise and Geary to her estate to participate in her therapy program, which is built around group therapy for families.
From there, the rest of the story unfolds in entertaining ways. Other guests arrive and interact with each other revealing problems of their own and establishing intriguing relationships.
Arles establishes a secret relationship with Dan, a handyman, who patiently listens to her and helps her deal with some unresolved personal problems.
The abduction of Bea, a girl from another town, is related to some of the patients in Arles's program and possibly even to Arles herself.
Not everyone is safe at the secluded estate and danger surfaces in the form of more than one villain, who may be persons whom the guests already know.
The story is interesting but some parts grow tedious and stretch believability. Some readers may like Geary but others may find him irritating. Arles is a complex character who is likeable and intelligent, but it is unlikely she would have ever been accepted into the community of professional therapists with so many obvious problems which she could not have hidden from trained eyes.
The secondary story of Bea and her parents, Cass and Maggie, is strong, maybe even stronger than the main story of Arles and her patients.
The two stories come together nicely for a satisfying ending to this creative psychological thriller, which addresses some disturbing topics but doesn't overdo them.
Arles is obsessed with an old picture that features an unknown girl who seems familiar. Arles considers the picture a link to her troubled past.
When Arles arrives at the estate, she discovers two squatters, Stephanie and her daughter, Lissa. Instead of throwing them out, she strikes a deal with the squatters who will receive free room and board in exchange for helping Arles run her business. They will handle home schooling and cooking duties.
Using advanced aging software and search bots, Arles locates the girl in the picture, now a woman, Louise, with an Autistic son, Geary, who cannot talk but has some secret capabilities.
Arles succeeds in luring Louise and Geary to her estate to participate in her therapy program, which is built around group therapy for families.
From there, the rest of the story unfolds in entertaining ways. Other guests arrive and interact with each other revealing problems of their own and establishing intriguing relationships.
Arles establishes a secret relationship with Dan, a handyman, who patiently listens to her and helps her deal with some unresolved personal problems.
The abduction of Bea, a girl from another town, is related to some of the patients in Arles's program and possibly even to Arles herself.
Not everyone is safe at the secluded estate and danger surfaces in the form of more than one villain, who may be persons whom the guests already know.
The story is interesting but some parts grow tedious and stretch believability. Some readers may like Geary but others may find him irritating. Arles is a complex character who is likeable and intelligent, but it is unlikely she would have ever been accepted into the community of professional therapists with so many obvious problems which she could not have hidden from trained eyes.
The secondary story of Bea and her parents, Cass and Maggie, is strong, maybe even stronger than the main story of Arles and her patients.
The two stories come together nicely for a satisfying ending to this creative psychological thriller, which addresses some disturbing topics but doesn't overdo them.
January 20, 2025
This story captivated me, even though some parts felt a bit disjointed. It opens with three distinct plotlines, two of which gradually intertwine, though the connections aren’t immediately clear. As I continued reading, I made several inferences about how the storylines might converge, and I was partially correct. The ending provided a satisfying resolution to the complex web of narratives.
Included with Kindle Unlimited
Included with Kindle Unlimited
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