What do you think?
Rate this book
When She's Gone
In this haunting story that spans three decades, a young gymnast escapes a kidnapping. Years later, she’s forced to face the past when her own daughter disappears.
Cora Valentine has her whole life—and a shot at the Olympics—ahead of her. But when she’s kidnapped on Halloween, her name is splashed across headlines not as an athlete but as a victim. Not even her safe return changes that, especially since no one is caught for the crime.
Hounded by the public, Cora’s time as a missing girl and member of the Magnificent Eight has its consequences. Years later, when Cora has her own daughter, she’s determined to leave the past behind for a better life. Her daughter will never face those fears. And Cora will never face them again.
But four years later, on Halloween, the past comes knocking.
Now, Cora’s daughter is gone, and to get her back, Cora must take someone else’s child.
Clearly, whoever took her all those years ago isn’t done with her yet…but as long as they have her daughter, Cora’s not done with them either.
Cora Valentine has her whole life—and a shot at the Olympics—ahead of her. But when she’s kidnapped on Halloween, her name is splashed across headlines not as an athlete but as a victim. Not even her safe return changes that, especially since no one is caught for the crime.
Hounded by the public, Cora’s time as a missing girl and member of the Magnificent Eight has its consequences. Years later, when Cora has her own daughter, she’s determined to leave the past behind for a better life. Her daughter will never face those fears. And Cora will never face them again.
But four years later, on Halloween, the past comes knocking.
Now, Cora’s daughter is gone, and to get her back, Cora must take someone else’s child.
Clearly, whoever took her all those years ago isn’t done with her yet…but as long as they have her daughter, Cora’s not done with them either.
252 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 14, 2025
442 people are currently reading
11135 people want to read
About the author
Rea Frey
16 books1,015 followersRea Frey is the #1 bestselling author of several suspense, thriller, and contemporary fiction novels.
Known as The Book Doula, Rea helps other writers birth their books into the world. To learn more, visit reafrey.com
Known as The Book Doula, Rea helps other writers birth their books into the world. To learn more, visit reafrey.com
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 29 of 262 reviews
January 13, 2025
In a deliciously unhinged, edge-of-your-seat premise, When She’s Gone took me both into the world of competitive gymnastics as well as a unsettlingly twisted kidnapping plot gone wrong. Told via dual timelines of now and then by Cora’s thoroughly convincing persona, I easily got swept up in her dark past and even darker present. Throughout it all, the suspense ratcheted right along with the pace until an utterly over-the-top climax that had my eyes moving at speed. The definition of an addictive popcorn thriller, this reader inhaled it fast as could be. After all, I just had to know whether my suspicions were correct before setting the book down.
As much as I loved the general course of the novel, there were two tiny issues that bugged me just the teeniest bit. Namely, the overriding requirement to suspend all disbelief on top of the fact that I guessed each and every shocking twist before it was revealed. The former, of course, I got over tout suite as I decided just to go along for the ride. The latter, however, was somewhat of a letdown. For that reason alone, I believe this book would be perfect for newbies to the genre over diehard thriller readers like me. After all, I suspect my insatiable appetite for all things suspense was a big reason why I could see behind each and every reveal in this unputdownable psychological thriller.
Despite both of the above, however, this book had me spellbound for sure. So much so, in fact, that I sped through it in just one hypnotized evening without a single reading break in sight. With short chapters, a blazingly fast pace, and plenty of palpable fear, it was every parent’s worst nightmare come brilliantly to life. And while the plot itself had more of a fictionalized drama vibe, the vicious gymnastics world felt 100% real. All said and done, it’s no surprise at all that my friends and colleagues with Thriller Book Lovers: The Pulse have been raving about this one for ages. Bingeable and well-plotted in the extreme, you aren’t going to want to miss out on this rollicking good time. Rating of 4 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
Cora Valentine has her whole life―and a shot at the Olympics―ahead of her. But when she’s kidnapped on Halloween, her name is splashed across headlines not as an athlete but as a victim. Not even her safe return changes that, especially since no one is caught for the crime.
Hounded by the public, Cora’s time as a missing girl and member of the Magnificent Eight has its consequences. Years later, when Cora has her own daughter, she’s determined to leave the past behind for a better life. Her daughter will never face those fears. And Cora will never face them again.
But four years later, on Halloween, the past comes knocking.
Now, Cora’s daughter is gone, and to get her back, Cora must take someone else’s child.
Clearly, whoever took her all those years ago isn’t done with her yet…but as long as they have her daughter, Cora’s not done with them either.
Thank you to Rea Frey, Thomas & Mercer, and NetGalley for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: January 14, 2025
Content warning: kidnapping, anxiety, gun violence, mention of: stalking
As much as I loved the general course of the novel, there were two tiny issues that bugged me just the teeniest bit. Namely, the overriding requirement to suspend all disbelief on top of the fact that I guessed each and every shocking twist before it was revealed. The former, of course, I got over tout suite as I decided just to go along for the ride. The latter, however, was somewhat of a letdown. For that reason alone, I believe this book would be perfect for newbies to the genre over diehard thriller readers like me. After all, I suspect my insatiable appetite for all things suspense was a big reason why I could see behind each and every reveal in this unputdownable psychological thriller.
Despite both of the above, however, this book had me spellbound for sure. So much so, in fact, that I sped through it in just one hypnotized evening without a single reading break in sight. With short chapters, a blazingly fast pace, and plenty of palpable fear, it was every parent’s worst nightmare come brilliantly to life. And while the plot itself had more of a fictionalized drama vibe, the vicious gymnastics world felt 100% real. All said and done, it’s no surprise at all that my friends and colleagues with Thriller Book Lovers: The Pulse have been raving about this one for ages. Bingeable and well-plotted in the extreme, you aren’t going to want to miss out on this rollicking good time. Rating of 4 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
Cora Valentine has her whole life―and a shot at the Olympics―ahead of her. But when she’s kidnapped on Halloween, her name is splashed across headlines not as an athlete but as a victim. Not even her safe return changes that, especially since no one is caught for the crime.
Hounded by the public, Cora’s time as a missing girl and member of the Magnificent Eight has its consequences. Years later, when Cora has her own daughter, she’s determined to leave the past behind for a better life. Her daughter will never face those fears. And Cora will never face them again.
But four years later, on Halloween, the past comes knocking.
Now, Cora’s daughter is gone, and to get her back, Cora must take someone else’s child.
Clearly, whoever took her all those years ago isn’t done with her yet…but as long as they have her daughter, Cora’s not done with them either.
Thank you to Rea Frey, Thomas & Mercer, and NetGalley for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: January 14, 2025
Content warning: kidnapping, anxiety, gun violence, mention of: stalking
January 18, 2025
Last year I listened to Don’t Forget Me by Rea Frey and loved it, so I was keen to read more by this author. When She’s Gone is another bingeable listen, I finished it less than a day. Full of nasty characters and plenty of twists and turns, this is a book that I definitely recommend. The narrator, Jennifer Jill Araya was fantastic l bringing this story to life. I could picture it all happening. It would make a great movie too.
Set in the world of Olympic gymnastics, we follow Cora Valentines search for her kidnapped 4 year old daughter at Halloween. We learn that Cora herself was kidnapped as a teenager on the same night. Scared and desperate, Cora will do anything to get her daughter back. It takes her back into the orbit of her former teammates., not all of whom are happy to see her again.
This was such a fast paced story, you really do feel as if you are racing about with Cora. A great read.
Thanks so much to Brilliance Audio on NetGalley for my advanced copy to listen to. Out on January 14th.
Set in the world of Olympic gymnastics, we follow Cora Valentines search for her kidnapped 4 year old daughter at Halloween. We learn that Cora herself was kidnapped as a teenager on the same night. Scared and desperate, Cora will do anything to get her daughter back. It takes her back into the orbit of her former teammates., not all of whom are happy to see her again.
This was such a fast paced story, you really do feel as if you are racing about with Cora. A great read.
Thanks so much to Brilliance Audio on NetGalley for my advanced copy to listen to. Out on January 14th.
October 3, 2024
This one hurts! More so towards the end.
Cora Valentine’s life is a cautionary tale for the girls not to get kidnapped. She was one of the most promising gymnasts who would have surely get into the Olympics. However, the unexpected happened. She got rescued and years later her little daughter gets kidnapped. She knows for sure the person who’s behind this knows her history pretty well.
This is one such easy thrilling fast paced read which will keep you on your toes!
I like how the writing never made me feel like the book could have been written with lesser words. The length is perfect for the story.
The twist towards the end will make you believe there’s no one you can actually trust anymore. God, it hurts reading the ending.
I would say for the primary thriller readers, unlike me, would guess the twist. But they will enjoy how short and interesting the writing is.
A good one and I will recommend the book to the thriller beginners and occasional readers.
Thank you, Thomas & Mercer, for the ARC.
Cora Valentine’s life is a cautionary tale for the girls not to get kidnapped. She was one of the most promising gymnasts who would have surely get into the Olympics. However, the unexpected happened. She got rescued and years later her little daughter gets kidnapped. She knows for sure the person who’s behind this knows her history pretty well.
This is one such easy thrilling fast paced read which will keep you on your toes!
I like how the writing never made me feel like the book could have been written with lesser words. The length is perfect for the story.
The twist towards the end will make you believe there’s no one you can actually trust anymore. God, it hurts reading the ending.
I would say for the primary thriller readers, unlike me, would guess the twist. But they will enjoy how short and interesting the writing is.
A good one and I will recommend the book to the thriller beginners and occasional readers.
Thank you, Thomas & Mercer, for the ARC.
January 27, 2025
This is the 2nd book by Rea Frey I've read and boy was it a totally different read!
This one's a suspense thriller about a former Olympic champion gymnast who was once kidnapped on Halloween night as a teenager and has PTSD from it. Fast forward 30yrs and her young daughter goes missing right in front of her on Halloween. The story is a dual timeline with the 'then' all about the past kidnapping and the 'now' in which we follow Cora as she follows the clues in order to find her daughter.
I very much found the 'now' to be far more interesting than the 'then'. The former was engaging and kept you engaged as she follows the clues and slowly starts to unravel the onion. I did find it unrealistic how much they cram into just the one night though
All in all an engaging and twisty read (although none were shockers tbh) but the pace of the book kept it interesting and if you enjoy gymnastics then there's quite a bit of it in this. Bonus fact the author was a competitive gymnast so it's quite factually correct.
Many thanks to Thomas & Mercer for providing me with a copy of the book for review via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
This one's a suspense thriller about a former Olympic champion gymnast who was once kidnapped on Halloween night as a teenager and has PTSD from it. Fast forward 30yrs and her young daughter goes missing right in front of her on Halloween. The story is a dual timeline with the 'then' all about the past kidnapping and the 'now' in which we follow Cora as she follows the clues in order to find her daughter.
I very much found the 'now' to be far more interesting than the 'then'. The former was engaging and kept you engaged as she follows the clues and slowly starts to unravel the onion. I did find it unrealistic how much they cram into just the one night though
All in all an engaging and twisty read (although none were shockers tbh) but the pace of the book kept it interesting and if you enjoy gymnastics then there's quite a bit of it in this. Bonus fact the author was a competitive gymnast so it's quite factually correct.
Many thanks to Thomas & Mercer for providing me with a copy of the book for review via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
January 15, 2025
When She's Gone is an edge of your seat thriller showing the lengths a mother will go to for her child. When Cora's daughter is kidnapped, her morals and loyalty are put to the test as she's required to kidnap and injure someone else's child. Is Cora the victim of an elaborate scheme and is it related to what happened to her decades ago when she herself was kidnapped?
If you loved The Chain, you'll definitely enjoy When She's Gone. It's quite different but some of the premise has similar vibes. I liked the dual timelines, the recurring Halloween theme, and following Cora as she tries to find her daughter. It was suspenseful and the pacing was really well done. If you read a lot of thrillers, some things may jump out at you, but I'm sure some readers will be surprised and enjoy the twists and turns this novel offers.
Overall, this book kept me flipping pages as I needed to know where it was going and what would happen. I liked how Cora's past was entwining with her present and it was hard to know who to trust.
Everyone at The Pulse has been talking about this book for weeks - many devouring it in a single setting! If you need a bingeworthy read, look no further!
If you loved The Chain, you'll definitely enjoy When She's Gone. It's quite different but some of the premise has similar vibes. I liked the dual timelines, the recurring Halloween theme, and following Cora as she tries to find her daughter. It was suspenseful and the pacing was really well done. If you read a lot of thrillers, some things may jump out at you, but I'm sure some readers will be surprised and enjoy the twists and turns this novel offers.
Overall, this book kept me flipping pages as I needed to know where it was going and what would happen. I liked how Cora's past was entwining with her present and it was hard to know who to trust.
Everyone at The Pulse has been talking about this book for weeks - many devouring it in a single setting! If you need a bingeworthy read, look no further!
December 28, 2024
4.5/5
This was SO intense and exactly what I mean when I say I want a thriller that hooks me right from the start and never lets up. It’s dual timelines, one in present day as Cora searches for her daughter and another in the past when she was kidnapped as a young teenager. Who knew gymnastics and tense thrillers went so well together but when I tell you this combo had me in a chokehold, it was insane. It was very fast paced, one of those head spinning type of reads and even if things were over the top and I had to suspend disbelief I didn’t care, I was hooked! This was unhinged and so addictive and was almost a five star read for me but I guessed a big twist so I’m knocking a half star off. Still definitely worth a read, especially if you want a one sitting thrill ride.
This was SO intense and exactly what I mean when I say I want a thriller that hooks me right from the start and never lets up. It’s dual timelines, one in present day as Cora searches for her daughter and another in the past when she was kidnapped as a young teenager. Who knew gymnastics and tense thrillers went so well together but when I tell you this combo had me in a chokehold, it was insane. It was very fast paced, one of those head spinning type of reads and even if things were over the top and I had to suspend disbelief I didn’t care, I was hooked! This was unhinged and so addictive and was almost a five star read for me but I guessed a big twist so I’m knocking a half star off. Still definitely worth a read, especially if you want a one sitting thrill ride.
December 8, 2024
When She's Gone is an INTENSE stressful emotional novel. Told in dual time periods, we follow Cora as a teenager when she was kidnapped and again when she's an adult and her young daughter is also taken.
Both timelines had me breathless, furiously turning pages to find out what happened. The ending left me sad and emotionally spent in the best of ways.
Rea Frey continues to blow me away, her writing gets better and better. I can't wait to see what's next, and I'll be 1st in line to read it.
Both timelines had me breathless, furiously turning pages to find out what happened. The ending left me sad and emotionally spent in the best of ways.
Rea Frey continues to blow me away, her writing gets better and better. I can't wait to see what's next, and I'll be 1st in line to read it.
November 26, 2024
The story starts with an intriguing dark tone, but as it progresses, the twists feel a bit forced and less convincing. The ending, while aiming for something dramatic, didn’t have the impact I expected and felt more like a missed opportunity. Instead of adding depth, the final moments seemed a bit over the top and disconnected from the story's earlier atmosphere. While the narrative had potential, the execution didn't quite deliver the way I had hoped.
November 20, 2024
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free, electronic ARC of this novel received in exchange for an honest review.
Expected publication date: Jan. 14, 2025
As a young teenager, Cora Valentine was training to be an Olympic gymnast and was well on her way to becoming part of the U.S team. One Halloween, Cora is out with her teammates at a haunted house where she is abducted and held against her will for days until finally being discovered by police. Now, decades later, Cora has returned to her hometown with her young daughter, Lulu, after putting her Olympic dreams behind her. Then the worst happens and Lulu is taken during the Halloween parade. Cora knows that it can’t be a coincidence but can she figure out who has taken her daughter (and why) before it’s too late.
Rea Frey is one of those authors that I am perpetually scanning shelves for and I have done my best to keep up with her, reading most of the books she has released (I’m only missing a few, which I will rectify one day). So, it was no question that I would read her new novel, “When She's Gone”.
“Gone” is a dual timeline novel, narrated by Cora “then” (when she was abducted) and “now” (when her daughter is). Written this way, readers can slowly grip the connecting strings of both abductions as they try to solve the mystery.
I have never been an athlete, but the viciously competitive world of Olympic-level gymnastics rings true (Frey also speaks to her athleticism and training in the “author’s note”, for extra realism), pitting young girls against each other in order to achieve a lifelong dream. This has to leave a mark, whether successful or not, and the jealousy and bitterness can easily trickle into adulthood. Whether it’s Frey’s writing or her experience, the plot does not seem far-fetched, and the novel flows with believability and honesty.
There are inevitable twists and turns, of course, with the final twist being the biggest of all. Although I was able to figure out the “who”, due to my excessive exposure to this genre, the “why” and the “how” were just as interesting and I loved hearing all the gripping details.
“Gone” is a tense and suspenseful story about what happens after your childhood dreams come true, and what happens when they don’t. Frey delivers another one of her twisty-turny, high-octane thrillers and, as usual, she did not disappoint.
Expected publication date: Jan. 14, 2025
As a young teenager, Cora Valentine was training to be an Olympic gymnast and was well on her way to becoming part of the U.S team. One Halloween, Cora is out with her teammates at a haunted house where she is abducted and held against her will for days until finally being discovered by police. Now, decades later, Cora has returned to her hometown with her young daughter, Lulu, after putting her Olympic dreams behind her. Then the worst happens and Lulu is taken during the Halloween parade. Cora knows that it can’t be a coincidence but can she figure out who has taken her daughter (and why) before it’s too late.
Rea Frey is one of those authors that I am perpetually scanning shelves for and I have done my best to keep up with her, reading most of the books she has released (I’m only missing a few, which I will rectify one day). So, it was no question that I would read her new novel, “When She's Gone”.
“Gone” is a dual timeline novel, narrated by Cora “then” (when she was abducted) and “now” (when her daughter is). Written this way, readers can slowly grip the connecting strings of both abductions as they try to solve the mystery.
I have never been an athlete, but the viciously competitive world of Olympic-level gymnastics rings true (Frey also speaks to her athleticism and training in the “author’s note”, for extra realism), pitting young girls against each other in order to achieve a lifelong dream. This has to leave a mark, whether successful or not, and the jealousy and bitterness can easily trickle into adulthood. Whether it’s Frey’s writing or her experience, the plot does not seem far-fetched, and the novel flows with believability and honesty.
There are inevitable twists and turns, of course, with the final twist being the biggest of all. Although I was able to figure out the “who”, due to my excessive exposure to this genre, the “why” and the “how” were just as interesting and I loved hearing all the gripping details.
“Gone” is a tense and suspenseful story about what happens after your childhood dreams come true, and what happens when they don’t. Frey delivers another one of her twisty-turny, high-octane thrillers and, as usual, she did not disappoint.
November 22, 2024
This book was a tense and twisted ride from start to finish. Years earlier, Cora Valentine was kidnapped on Halloween, and the culprit was never found. She hasn't gotten over the experience, and her terror is magnified when her daughter is kidnapped on Halloween. Cryptic notes and calls force her to pause and consider just how far she's willing to go to appease her daughter's kidnappers. I enjoyed the setup with the secondary characters meant to keep you guessing who the kidnapper is and what their end goal could be. Fans of tense, faster-paced thrillers will enjoy this book.
November 22, 2025
I devoured When She’s Gone in a single day—I literally could not put it down! From the very first chapter, Rea Frey pulls you into a ery tense, emotional, and beautifully layered story that never lets up.
As someone who grew up doing gymnastics, the athletic backdrop made this book feel extra special to me. The descriptions of the training, competition, and the pressure simmering beneath the surface were so vivid that I could literally picture every single moment perfectly in my head. It felt like stepping back into that world, but with a dark, twisty mystery driving everything forward.
This was my first Rea Frey novel, and I am absolutely blown away. Her writing is sharp, immersive, and full of heart. She balances the suspense with emotional depth in a way that made me both race to the next chapter and savor all of the details. The characters felt so real, the stakes were so high, and the twists kept on coming.
If you love a gripping, character-driven thrillers—and especially if you appreciate sports-centric themes—you need to read this book. I’m officially a HUGE Rea Frey fan now, and I can’t wait to dive into the rest of her work!!
As someone who grew up doing gymnastics, the athletic backdrop made this book feel extra special to me. The descriptions of the training, competition, and the pressure simmering beneath the surface were so vivid that I could literally picture every single moment perfectly in my head. It felt like stepping back into that world, but with a dark, twisty mystery driving everything forward.
This was my first Rea Frey novel, and I am absolutely blown away. Her writing is sharp, immersive, and full of heart. She balances the suspense with emotional depth in a way that made me both race to the next chapter and savor all of the details. The characters felt so real, the stakes were so high, and the twists kept on coming.
If you love a gripping, character-driven thrillers—and especially if you appreciate sports-centric themes—you need to read this book. I’m officially a HUGE Rea Frey fan now, and I can’t wait to dive into the rest of her work!!
February 11, 2025
This fast-paced psychological thriller had me hooked! Told through dual timelines—“then,” recounting her past kidnapping, and “now,” as we join Cara in the desperate search for her daughter—I raced through the pages, eagerly piecing together the connections between these two disappearances.
Frey delves into the intricacies of relationships, trauma, PTSD, and the high-stakes world of competitive sports, exploring both the sacrifices made and the lasting consequences.
A tightly crafted and engaging popcorn thriller that’s a fast, effortless binge!
Frey delves into the intricacies of relationships, trauma, PTSD, and the high-stakes world of competitive sports, exploring both the sacrifices made and the lasting consequences.
A tightly crafted and engaging popcorn thriller that’s a fast, effortless binge!
January 14, 2025
This was a fast paced, action packed, and suspenseful thriller! It hooked me from the beginning and had me riveted until the end. I loved the nostalgia- the 90’s and the US Olympic womens gymnastics team are prominent throughout. I could NOT put it down! The dual timelines worked fabulously to keep me engaged. This is a short book that really packs a punch!
October 18, 2024
When She’s Gone
By: Rea Frey
Pub Date: January 14. 2025
This is my third book by this author and her books are always ones I gravitate too. I like that she writes in several genres.
This one rocked me to MY CORE! A mom with a child who goes missing while Trick-or-Treating. A parent’s worst nightmare when their child goes missing.
As a child Cora Valentine was kidnapped on Halloween and her name was all over the media. No one was ever convicted of her kidnapping.
Years later she is a parent and her daughter comes up missing on Halloween. What are the odds?
The story had me read from cover-to-cover because I had to find out if her daughter was found or where their disappearance connected. I was completely thrown for a loop at the ending.
By: Rea Frey
Pub Date: January 14. 2025
This is my third book by this author and her books are always ones I gravitate too. I like that she writes in several genres.
This one rocked me to MY CORE! A mom with a child who goes missing while Trick-or-Treating. A parent’s worst nightmare when their child goes missing.
As a child Cora Valentine was kidnapped on Halloween and her name was all over the media. No one was ever convicted of her kidnapping.
Years later she is a parent and her daughter comes up missing on Halloween. What are the odds?
The story had me read from cover-to-cover because I had to find out if her daughter was found or where their disappearance connected. I was completely thrown for a loop at the ending.
January 13, 2025
SYNOPSIS:
In When She’s Gone by Rea Frey, former Olympian hopeful Cora Valentine’s life was forever changed when she survived being kidnapped on Halloween—a trauma that haunts her even after becoming a mother. Determined to shield her daughter from the same fears, Cora’s resolve is shattered when her child is abducted on Halloween years later. To save her, Cora is forced to confront her past and make an unthinkable choice, uncovering a chilling connection to her own abduction.
MY THOUGHTS:
When She’s Gone by Rea Frey is an edge-of-your-seat thriller that kept me captivated from page one! The dual timelines, blending Cora’s harrowing kidnapping in the ’90s with her present-day search for her missing daughter, create a gripping narrative you won’t want to put down. Set against the high-stakes world of competitive gymnastics, the story is fast-paced, with short chapters that make it a binge-worthy read.
The suspense builds as you unravel the mystery of Cora’s daughter’s disappearance, and while some twists were predictable, they didn’t take away from the adrenaline-fueled ride. Yes, there are moments where you’ll need to suspend disbelief, but that only adds to the fun! If you loved the intensity of The Chain by Adrian McKinty, this book will absolutely hook you—it delivers that same pulse-pounding tension and emotional depth.
Full of drama, secrets, and shocking twists, When She’s Gone is a must-read for fans of fast-paced popcorn thrillers.
AUDIOBOOK REVIEW:
Jennifer Jill Araya delivers a standout performance in the audiobook of When She’s Gone, bringing Cora’s story to life with incredible depth and emotion. Her ability to shift seamlessly between timelines is impressive—capturing Cora’s youthful, uncertain voice in the high school flashback chapters and her more mature, emotionally charged tone in the present day. Araya masterfully conveys Cora’s desperation, determination, and fear as she navigates the terrifying search for her daughter, making every moment feel raw and authentic. Her nuanced narration adds another layer to the suspense, making this audiobook an immersive and unforgettable experience.
Thank you to the author, Thomas & Mercer, Brilliance Publishing and NetGalley for advanced copies in exchange for my honest review.
In When She’s Gone by Rea Frey, former Olympian hopeful Cora Valentine’s life was forever changed when she survived being kidnapped on Halloween—a trauma that haunts her even after becoming a mother. Determined to shield her daughter from the same fears, Cora’s resolve is shattered when her child is abducted on Halloween years later. To save her, Cora is forced to confront her past and make an unthinkable choice, uncovering a chilling connection to her own abduction.
MY THOUGHTS:
When She’s Gone by Rea Frey is an edge-of-your-seat thriller that kept me captivated from page one! The dual timelines, blending Cora’s harrowing kidnapping in the ’90s with her present-day search for her missing daughter, create a gripping narrative you won’t want to put down. Set against the high-stakes world of competitive gymnastics, the story is fast-paced, with short chapters that make it a binge-worthy read.
The suspense builds as you unravel the mystery of Cora’s daughter’s disappearance, and while some twists were predictable, they didn’t take away from the adrenaline-fueled ride. Yes, there are moments where you’ll need to suspend disbelief, but that only adds to the fun! If you loved the intensity of The Chain by Adrian McKinty, this book will absolutely hook you—it delivers that same pulse-pounding tension and emotional depth.
Full of drama, secrets, and shocking twists, When She’s Gone is a must-read for fans of fast-paced popcorn thrillers.
AUDIOBOOK REVIEW:
Jennifer Jill Araya delivers a standout performance in the audiobook of When She’s Gone, bringing Cora’s story to life with incredible depth and emotion. Her ability to shift seamlessly between timelines is impressive—capturing Cora’s youthful, uncertain voice in the high school flashback chapters and her more mature, emotionally charged tone in the present day. Araya masterfully conveys Cora’s desperation, determination, and fear as she navigates the terrifying search for her daughter, making every moment feel raw and authentic. Her nuanced narration adds another layer to the suspense, making this audiobook an immersive and unforgettable experience.
Thank you to the author, Thomas & Mercer, Brilliance Publishing and NetGalley for advanced copies in exchange for my honest review.
November 26, 2024
[Thank you to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for the advanced electronic copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.] Publishes 1/14/2025
This book is a mother’s worst fears come to life. Halloween is always a tough time of year for Cora. She was kidnapped at the same time of year as a young teen and now her little girl, Lu, goes missing while trick or treating.
Interweaving past and present timelines, we learn that Cora is a former Olympic gymnastics champion. This page turner features old rivalries, and the world of competitive sports.
What would you do for your child? Would you do almost anything? This book examines just that. A main theme of the book also involves mother/daughter relationships. This was a quick read and I wanted to know what would happen, even if the plot was a stretch for me. There are many suspects, harrowing choices and a crazy twist. If you are a fan of psychological fiction, this may be right up your alley.
CW | Contains a couple of instances of strong profanity.
This book is a mother’s worst fears come to life. Halloween is always a tough time of year for Cora. She was kidnapped at the same time of year as a young teen and now her little girl, Lu, goes missing while trick or treating.
Interweaving past and present timelines, we learn that Cora is a former Olympic gymnastics champion. This page turner features old rivalries, and the world of competitive sports.
What would you do for your child? Would you do almost anything? This book examines just that. A main theme of the book also involves mother/daughter relationships. This was a quick read and I wanted to know what would happen, even if the plot was a stretch for me. There are many suspects, harrowing choices and a crazy twist. If you are a fan of psychological fiction, this may be right up your alley.
CW | Contains a couple of instances of strong profanity.
January 2, 2025
Did I completely binge this audiobook in just a few hours?! Why yes I did ☺️
As someone who was OBSESSED with the 1996 gymnastics Olympics (literally saw them in person!) I loved the flashbacks and mentions of all my favorite gymnasts.
Cora Valentine was an Olympic gymnast back when she was young, but that’s not all she was known for. She was also kidnapped and gone for a week right before she made the team. Now, as an adult and mother of a 4 year old, she is haunted once again when her daughter is kidnapped right from her.
This would be a great Halloween read as both kidnappings take place on Halloween!
4⭐️
Pub date 01.14.25
Thanks to NetGalley & Thomas & Mercer for my ARC, Brilliance Publishing & Thriller Book Lovers The Pulse for my ALC.
As someone who was OBSESSED with the 1996 gymnastics Olympics (literally saw them in person!) I loved the flashbacks and mentions of all my favorite gymnasts.
Cora Valentine was an Olympic gymnast back when she was young, but that’s not all she was known for. She was also kidnapped and gone for a week right before she made the team. Now, as an adult and mother of a 4 year old, she is haunted once again when her daughter is kidnapped right from her.
This would be a great Halloween read as both kidnappings take place on Halloween!
4⭐️
Pub date 01.14.25
Thanks to NetGalley & Thomas & Mercer for my ARC, Brilliance Publishing & Thriller Book Lovers The Pulse for my ALC.
January 15, 2025
This was a totally fine thriller with a wildly ridiculous premise. There was kidnapping not once but twice and a Larry Nassau esque gymnastic father that wasn’t explored, too many wild and wacky plot lines for me
October 29, 2024
Frey’s latest psychological suspense involves the highly competitive world of elite gymnastics and a kidnapping of a young gymnast who eventually escaped. When years later, her daughter is also kidnapped, she raced against time to figure out who is responsible and how to save her daughter. Although the plot and ending were a little bit of a stretch at times, this was an entertaining read. I especially liked the glimpse into the gymnastics world.
Many thanks to Netgalley, Thomas & Mercer and Rea Frey for my complimentary e-copy ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Many thanks to Netgalley, Thomas & Mercer and Rea Frey for my complimentary e-copy ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
December 16, 2024
"And then it hits me. My sordid history. The significance of today and everything that came after. Whoever did this doesn't want my daughter. They want me."
In the 90s fourteen-year-old Cora is kidnapped right before she’s about to compete in trials to be on the Olympic gymnastic team. She’s safely returned, but her captors were never caught. Years later on the anniversary of her abduction, Cora’s four-year-old daughter is taken and she must do the unthinkable to get her back; kidnap someone else’s child.
Starting off with the intensity of a small child going missing, I was sucked in instantly and the suspense and dread didn’t let up the entire time. I don’t know what held my interest more, the ‘now’ chapters, or the ‘then’ chapters! I adore a fast paced dual timeline with short chapters and a slew of suspicious yet complex characters to keep me guessing. Learning what happened to Cora in the past was just as riveting as her present crisis of an unknown perpetrator instructing her to do things, or risk her daughter being hurt. I did manage to decipher what happened in both timelines but despite that, I wasn’t sure how it would all play out at the end!
I was a HUGE fan of watching the Olympic gymnastics as a teen in the 90s. It’s evident that Rea Frey not only loves the sport of gymnastics, but is knowledgeable on the subject, and that was BEFORE I read her author’s notes. The nostalgia I experienced while reading this was a pleasant bonus! Frey captures the essence of an athletic champion mindset AND the lingering effects of childhood trauma with care and accuracy. Prepare to read WHEN SHE’S GONE in one sitting because you won’t want to put it down!
____
Thank you #partner Rea Frey for my free copy. All opinions are mine.
____
In the 90s fourteen-year-old Cora is kidnapped right before she’s about to compete in trials to be on the Olympic gymnastic team. She’s safely returned, but her captors were never caught. Years later on the anniversary of her abduction, Cora’s four-year-old daughter is taken and she must do the unthinkable to get her back; kidnap someone else’s child.
Starting off with the intensity of a small child going missing, I was sucked in instantly and the suspense and dread didn’t let up the entire time. I don’t know what held my interest more, the ‘now’ chapters, or the ‘then’ chapters! I adore a fast paced dual timeline with short chapters and a slew of suspicious yet complex characters to keep me guessing. Learning what happened to Cora in the past was just as riveting as her present crisis of an unknown perpetrator instructing her to do things, or risk her daughter being hurt. I did manage to decipher what happened in both timelines but despite that, I wasn’t sure how it would all play out at the end!
I was a HUGE fan of watching the Olympic gymnastics as a teen in the 90s. It’s evident that Rea Frey not only loves the sport of gymnastics, but is knowledgeable on the subject, and that was BEFORE I read her author’s notes. The nostalgia I experienced while reading this was a pleasant bonus! Frey captures the essence of an athletic champion mindset AND the lingering effects of childhood trauma with care and accuracy. Prepare to read WHEN SHE’S GONE in one sitting because you won’t want to put it down!
____
Thank you #partner Rea Frey for my free copy. All opinions are mine.
____
November 15, 2024
Cora Valentine, a gymnastic Olympic hopeful, escaped a Halloween kidnapping. Three decades later, her daughter disappears on Halloween. Cora must confront her buried trauma head-on. Is it a mere coincidence, a copycat, or could her daughter's disappearance be linked to her own past?
I rapidly swiped through the pages on my Kindle - such a fast-paced read! The story unfolds through dual timelines, exploring Cora’s past kidnapping and Lulu’s current disappearance. This intertwining of timelines enhances the overall pacing and tension of the plot. I empathized deeply with Cora, as Lulu's disappearance compels her to confront her own traumatic experiences, forcing her into making decisions that no parent should ever have to face.
The list of suspects is extensive. But I had an inkling about the kidnapper's identity from the very beginning, even though I couldn’t quite put my finger on the reason. That "why" turned out to be more shocking than I ever imagined!
Frey dives into themes that draw you in, such as the complex dynamics of mother-daughter relationships, the intense world of competitive sports, and the extraordinary lengths a mother will go to safeguard her daughter. When She’s Gone is a gripping page-turner that you won’t be able to put down—prepare to binge it in a single day!
I rapidly swiped through the pages on my Kindle - such a fast-paced read! The story unfolds through dual timelines, exploring Cora’s past kidnapping and Lulu’s current disappearance. This intertwining of timelines enhances the overall pacing and tension of the plot. I empathized deeply with Cora, as Lulu's disappearance compels her to confront her own traumatic experiences, forcing her into making decisions that no parent should ever have to face.
The list of suspects is extensive. But I had an inkling about the kidnapper's identity from the very beginning, even though I couldn’t quite put my finger on the reason. That "why" turned out to be more shocking than I ever imagined!
Frey dives into themes that draw you in, such as the complex dynamics of mother-daughter relationships, the intense world of competitive sports, and the extraordinary lengths a mother will go to safeguard her daughter. When She’s Gone is a gripping page-turner that you won’t be able to put down—prepare to binge it in a single day!
October 4, 2024
The synopsis of this book had me so intrigued and I thought this would be a perfect Halloween read and a great introduction for me to this author .
The first few chapters were very captivating and then quickly the fizzle came and I was uninterested.
I had high hopes for this one but this just wasn’t my cup of tea but just because it’s not my cup of tea doesn’t mean it’s not for you .
Read this if you like :
🫶🏼 Dual Timeline
🫶🏼 Small Town Settings
🫶🏼 Kidnapping Tropes
🫶🏼 Short Chapters
🫶🏼 YA Dialogue
🫶🏼 Far fetched story lines
The story is set over dual timelines and starts off with Cora on Halloween taking her little girl trick or treating through the town , but quickly things spiral out of control because she can’t find Lu-Lu anywhere and Cora is out of her mind !!
Cora is quickly transported back in time to when she was a teenager and how one tragic Halloween night turned into one of the most horrifying events of hear life ….and now it’s happening again .
Will Cora be able to live through this and see her daughter alive again or will this end tragically leaving Halloween night one never to be forgotten?
You need to read this for yourself if you think this is a book for you !
Thank you NetGalley , Thomas & Mercer and Rea Frey for this ARC!
Respectfully Another Read by Angie
The first few chapters were very captivating and then quickly the fizzle came and I was uninterested.
I had high hopes for this one but this just wasn’t my cup of tea but just because it’s not my cup of tea doesn’t mean it’s not for you .
Read this if you like :
🫶🏼 Dual Timeline
🫶🏼 Small Town Settings
🫶🏼 Kidnapping Tropes
🫶🏼 Short Chapters
🫶🏼 YA Dialogue
🫶🏼 Far fetched story lines
The story is set over dual timelines and starts off with Cora on Halloween taking her little girl trick or treating through the town , but quickly things spiral out of control because she can’t find Lu-Lu anywhere and Cora is out of her mind !!
Cora is quickly transported back in time to when she was a teenager and how one tragic Halloween night turned into one of the most horrifying events of hear life ….and now it’s happening again .
Will Cora be able to live through this and see her daughter alive again or will this end tragically leaving Halloween night one never to be forgotten?
You need to read this for yourself if you think this is a book for you !
Thank you NetGalley , Thomas & Mercer and Rea Frey for this ARC!
Respectfully Another Read by Angie
October 22, 2024
When She’s Gone by Rea Frey. Thank you to the author for the signed Arc ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Cora Valentine is an Olympian hopeful. Gymnastics is her life… until she is kidnapped one day and becomes known as a victim, despite her safe return. Now years later, her daughter is kidnapped.
I was hooked on this one immediately. It grabs you right away. The chapters switched between timelines but both were equally exciting. It felt like whiplash going back and forth; in a good way! I did have an idea of who was involved, but I wasn’t entirely correct and there were surprises along the way. I also loved the gymnastics background.
“No more games. No more trying to outsmart anyone. I just want to bring my daughter home.”
When She’s Gone comes out 1/14.
Cora Valentine is an Olympian hopeful. Gymnastics is her life… until she is kidnapped one day and becomes known as a victim, despite her safe return. Now years later, her daughter is kidnapped.
I was hooked on this one immediately. It grabs you right away. The chapters switched between timelines but both were equally exciting. It felt like whiplash going back and forth; in a good way! I did have an idea of who was involved, but I wasn’t entirely correct and there were surprises along the way. I also loved the gymnastics background.
“No more games. No more trying to outsmart anyone. I just want to bring my daughter home.”
When She’s Gone comes out 1/14.
March 24, 2025
Interesting story about Cora Valentine, a gymnast who was kidnapped when she was young and working towards the Olympic team. Years later, her own little girl is snatched and the nightmare that ensues to try to secure her safe release is a wild ride.
The author is a former gymnast and knowledge of the cutthroat world of the sport is evident. I guessed the kidnapper shortly before the reveal, but the entire intricate plot just kept unraveling with multiple surprises.
I enjoyed the book! Four stars!
I received a copy of the digital ARC via NetGalley. My review is voluntary.
The author is a former gymnast and knowledge of the cutthroat world of the sport is evident. I guessed the kidnapper shortly before the reveal, but the entire intricate plot just kept unraveling with multiple surprises.
I enjoyed the book! Four stars!
I received a copy of the digital ARC via NetGalley. My review is voluntary.
January 31, 2025
This is fast paced and entertaining. I was drawn in from beginning to end. I liked how many twists there were and the ending was unexpected. This is one of my favorite thrillers I've read this year! Special Thank You to Rea Frey, Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley for allowing me to read a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
April 23, 2025
A fast-paced thriller told across two timelines, this book centers on Cora, a woman living through a nightmare in the present day as her daughter, Lulu, is kidnapped on Halloween night. Forced to complete a series of increasingly disturbing tasks to keep her daughter safe, Cora is thrown back into the trauma of her own past. The second timeline dives into her teenage years, when she was a rising gymnastics star… until she was kidnapped herself.
The two events are clearly connected, but the how and why remain a mystery Cora must unravel before it's too late. The story kicks off abruptly, but I have to admit: it hooked me. I was genuinely curious to uncover what had happened to Cora and what was driving these twisted events. It felt like it could lead somewhere big. Unfortunately, the payoff didn’t quite land. The plot veered into the unrealistic, the motives behind everything felt implausible, and the “big reveal” was disappointingly predictable. I kept hoping for a clever twist, but it never came.
The two events are clearly connected, but the how and why remain a mystery Cora must unravel before it's too late. The story kicks off abruptly, but I have to admit: it hooked me. I was genuinely curious to uncover what had happened to Cora and what was driving these twisted events. It felt like it could lead somewhere big. Unfortunately, the payoff didn’t quite land. The plot veered into the unrealistic, the motives behind everything felt implausible, and the “big reveal” was disappointingly predictable. I kept hoping for a clever twist, but it never came.
February 26, 2025
I always knew that gymnastics was a cutthroat sport. This book brings up the intense training, the diet pills, the willingness to do anything to make that ticket to the Olympic tryouts. Cora Valentine was brought up under these conditions. From a very tender age she was on the fast track to being the best, to never let up, and to only focus on that one goal? What happens if someone messes with your timeline and your goal. If they kidnap you and turn your life into a horror show. Cora thought that was the worst thing that has ever happened to her. She just returned to the town she grew up in. Coming to terms with the place and the people. Enough so that she can trust them around her four-year-old daughter, Lulu. Cora's everything is that little girl. She finally thinks it is time to allow Lulu to go trick or treating. That was the worst decision Cora could make. That nightmare that happened when she was a teenager is happening again. Lulu vanishes in the blink of an eye, amongst the screaming adorable trick or treaters. Will Cora be able to track her down and find her before it is too late?
This is a fast paced, dive right, and be right in the middle of it type of read. I loved every second. The back and forth between the Halloween night Cora was kidnapped and the present Halloween, where Lulu has disappeared in her green and black stripped tights, and glittery black tutu. I did guess early as too who was involved, but not the entire store. I just know I am glad my son is not into gymnastics. Thank you to Rea Frey and Thriller Book Lovers the Pulse for my gifted copy of this suspense packed read.
This is a fast paced, dive right, and be right in the middle of it type of read. I loved every second. The back and forth between the Halloween night Cora was kidnapped and the present Halloween, where Lulu has disappeared in her green and black stripped tights, and glittery black tutu. I did guess early as too who was involved, but not the entire store. I just know I am glad my son is not into gymnastics. Thank you to Rea Frey and Thriller Book Lovers the Pulse for my gifted copy of this suspense packed read.
January 31, 2025
3.5 rounded down! ⭐️
I won this book in a GoodReads giveaway. I’m not disappointed, but it was pretty fast-paced for my liking. I also question LOTS of the choices that were made. Like doing cartwheels while your daughter is missing (though, even the MC herself questioned why she did that lol). You could also chalk that up to the mental toll that competitive sports takes on young women, which was represented a lot in this book. I didn’t hate this.
It definitely felt a little too far-fetched for me but then again, it IS fiction. It was a quick read for me, and immediately at chapter 1, things started getting intense. If you’re looking for a fast-paced thriller with a few decent plot twists, I recommend this one. Though, if you get bothered by the unrealistic decisions that characters make in books, fiction or not, maybe sit this one out.
I won this book in a GoodReads giveaway. I’m not disappointed, but it was pretty fast-paced for my liking. I also question LOTS of the choices that were made. Like doing cartwheels while your daughter is missing (though, even the MC herself questioned why she did that lol). You could also chalk that up to the mental toll that competitive sports takes on young women, which was represented a lot in this book. I didn’t hate this.
It definitely felt a little too far-fetched for me but then again, it IS fiction. It was a quick read for me, and immediately at chapter 1, things started getting intense. If you’re looking for a fast-paced thriller with a few decent plot twists, I recommend this one. Though, if you get bothered by the unrealistic decisions that characters make in books, fiction or not, maybe sit this one out.
January 20, 2025
This story grabbed me from the very first page! I loved the dual timelines, and I was kept on the edge of my seat as I waited to see how far Cora was willing to go in order to get her daughter back. This was such a twisty read, and I was kept guessing as to who the kidnapper was and how this would all be resolved!
I highly recommend this to all my fellow thriller lovers!
I highly recommend this to all my fellow thriller lovers!
Displaying 1 - 29 of 262 reviews