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Leave the Girls Behind
The acclaimed author of the “tour de force” (The New York Times Book Review) Before You Knew My Name returns with a fresh suspense novel about a woman haunted by a serial killer and the ghosts he left behind.
Ruth-Ann Baker is a college dropout, a bartender—and an amateur detective who just can’t stay away from true crime. Nineteen years ago, her childhood friend was murdered by suspected serial killer Ethan Oswald. Still tormented by the case, Ruth can’t help but think of the long-dead Oswald when another young girl goes missing from the same town. And when she uncovers startling new evidence that suggests Oswald did not act alone, she is determined to find his deadly partner in crime.
Embarking on a global investigation, Ruth becomes close to three very different women—one of whom might just hold the key to what happened to the missing girl. And her childhood friend, all those years ago.
From an author who “pushes the boundaries of crime fiction in all the right ways” (Alex Finlay, author of The Night Shift), Leave the Girls Behind is another spine-chilling thriller that will linger long after you finish the last page.
Ruth-Ann Baker is a college dropout, a bartender—and an amateur detective who just can’t stay away from true crime. Nineteen years ago, her childhood friend was murdered by suspected serial killer Ethan Oswald. Still tormented by the case, Ruth can’t help but think of the long-dead Oswald when another young girl goes missing from the same town. And when she uncovers startling new evidence that suggests Oswald did not act alone, she is determined to find his deadly partner in crime.
Embarking on a global investigation, Ruth becomes close to three very different women—one of whom might just hold the key to what happened to the missing girl. And her childhood friend, all those years ago.
From an author who “pushes the boundaries of crime fiction in all the right ways” (Alex Finlay, author of The Night Shift), Leave the Girls Behind is another spine-chilling thriller that will linger long after you finish the last page.
320 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 29, 2024
342 people are currently reading
12235 people want to read
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October 29, 2024
I loved the author’s debut novel, “Before You Knew My Name”. It was a haunting, melancholy crime story, which despite having a Supernatural element-felt authentic-and I was hoping to feel the same way about this story.
But, despite a few highlight worthy passages, that wasn’t the case this time.
Beth Lovely was seven and a half years old when she disappeared from a children’ playground in Hoben, Connecticut. Her body was found eleven days later, and Ethan Oswald was eventually convicted of the crime.
Her friend, Ruth Ann Baker is now a 26 year old bartender, working at Sweeney’s bar in NY, who was once a student of Forensics with the dream of being a Criminal Profiler. But, her studies convinced her that Ethan Oswald probably had additional Victims. She ended up becoming obsessed with the past, and dropping out of College.
So when another little girl, Coco Wilson, goes missing from her hometown on the same day years later, it TRIGGERS her into thinking that perhaps Oswald had worked with an accomplice. The new disappearance pushes her to search for answers once again.
Well, that and the fact that she can also speak with Beth-and three other dead victims who also encourage her to do so.
Fortunately, Ruth Ann was gifted $100,000 (how convenient) so she decides to use some of the money to do some amateur sleuthing and with the money and some help from a website called “ What Happened to Her” she discovers that two of Ethan’s known Victims grew up to marry other killers.
What are the odds of that?
She will track down these women, with the pretense of wanting an interview with them for a her new Podcast. (which doesn’t exist) And, although they have moved as far as Norway and New Zealand, for anonymity, they both agree to interviews, with one even offering to host Ruth Ann in her home. (Really?)
It all came together too easily for Ruth Ann and it just didn’t ring true to me.
And, there was simply too much too keep track of and too much going on.
In “Before You Knew My Name” our Victim, “Riverside Jane” was always on our mind-but unlike in the author’s debut-I felt a DISCONNECT from the crimes this time-never feeling emotionally invested in the characters or the story’s outcome-perhaps because of its lack of authenticity.
As always, no book is for every reader-so do check out a sample of reviews to determine if this one might be a better fit for you, including DeAnn’s. Did she feel differently about this one?
Review for “Before You Knew My Name” : https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Now available
Thank You to Atria for the gifted ARC provided through NetGalley. As always, these are my candid thoughts.
But, despite a few highlight worthy passages, that wasn’t the case this time.
Beth Lovely was seven and a half years old when she disappeared from a children’ playground in Hoben, Connecticut. Her body was found eleven days later, and Ethan Oswald was eventually convicted of the crime.
Her friend, Ruth Ann Baker is now a 26 year old bartender, working at Sweeney’s bar in NY, who was once a student of Forensics with the dream of being a Criminal Profiler. But, her studies convinced her that Ethan Oswald probably had additional Victims. She ended up becoming obsessed with the past, and dropping out of College.
So when another little girl, Coco Wilson, goes missing from her hometown on the same day years later, it TRIGGERS her into thinking that perhaps Oswald had worked with an accomplice. The new disappearance pushes her to search for answers once again.
Well, that and the fact that she can also speak with Beth-and three other dead victims who also encourage her to do so.
Fortunately, Ruth Ann was gifted $100,000 (how convenient) so she decides to use some of the money to do some amateur sleuthing and with the money and some help from a website called “ What Happened to Her” she discovers that two of Ethan’s known Victims grew up to marry other killers.
What are the odds of that?
She will track down these women, with the pretense of wanting an interview with them for a her new Podcast. (which doesn’t exist) And, although they have moved as far as Norway and New Zealand, for anonymity, they both agree to interviews, with one even offering to host Ruth Ann in her home. (Really?)
It all came together too easily for Ruth Ann and it just didn’t ring true to me.
And, there was simply too much too keep track of and too much going on.
In “Before You Knew My Name” our Victim, “Riverside Jane” was always on our mind-but unlike in the author’s debut-I felt a DISCONNECT from the crimes this time-never feeling emotionally invested in the characters or the story’s outcome-perhaps because of its lack of authenticity.
As always, no book is for every reader-so do check out a sample of reviews to determine if this one might be a better fit for you, including DeAnn’s. Did she feel differently about this one?
Review for “Before You Knew My Name” : https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Now available
Thank You to Atria for the gifted ARC provided through NetGalley. As always, these are my candid thoughts.
November 18, 2024
A cross-genre tale that was as poignant as it was filled with suspense, Leave the Girls Behind provided thought-provoking commentary with a side of thrills and chills. From the unflinching look at the aftermath of trauma to the perfectly flawed characters, there was a depth to this humdinger of story that I wasn’t expecting. What truly blew me away, though, were the two mind-blowing twists that not only had my jaw on the floor, but could also quite possibly rival The Overnight Guest. Bringing together a few unresolved threads, each time I was utterly shocked—all the way down to my toes.
The characters were the special sauce in this atmospheric stunner, however. From the amateur sleuth with an unreliable narrator vibe to the three separate personas who I couldn’t align in my head, it wasn’t until the very last chapter that it really hit home. Well, mostly, that is. You see, even the big, final reveal felt somewhat disjointed, leaving me to parse sentences in order to bring it all firmly together. Sadly, at times, it was almost like grasping at wet noodles. I’d figure it out and then it would all fall apart. Was it me or the writing? I’m not sure I’ll ever really be sure.
Just the same, with an original premise, evocative descriptions, and hard-hitting themes, this slow burn crime fiction/suspense/drama sizzled between my fingertips as I inhaled page after page. Am I still struggling to come to terms with how I felt about this novel? Well, yes. Part of me loved it and part of me is—even now—mulling over what it all meant. Psychologically challenging, I’m sure this one will live with me for quite a while. So if you’re looking for a dark, disturbing tale rife with shocking secrets and deftly hidden lies, give this one a go. After all, it will certainly make you think, of that you can be sure. Rating of 3.5 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
Ruth-Ann Baker is a college dropout, a bartender—and an amateur detective who just can’t stay away from true crime. Nineteen years ago, her childhood friend was murdered by suspected serial killer Ethan Oswald. Still tormented by the case, Ruth can’t help but think of the long-dead Oswald when another young girl goes missing from the same town. And when she uncovers startling new evidence that suggests Oswald did not act alone, she is determined to find his deadly partner in crime.
Embarking on a global investigation, Ruth becomes close to three very different women—one of whom might just hold the key to what happened to the missing girl. And her childhood friend, all those years ago.
Thank you to Jacqueline Bublitz and Emily Bestler Books/Atria for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: October 29, 2024
Trigger warning: kidnapping, sick animal, assault, mention of: grooming, child death, controlling relationship
The characters were the special sauce in this atmospheric stunner, however. From the amateur sleuth with an unreliable narrator vibe to the three separate personas who I couldn’t align in my head, it wasn’t until the very last chapter that it really hit home. Well, mostly, that is. You see, even the big, final reveal felt somewhat disjointed, leaving me to parse sentences in order to bring it all firmly together. Sadly, at times, it was almost like grasping at wet noodles. I’d figure it out and then it would all fall apart. Was it me or the writing? I’m not sure I’ll ever really be sure.
Just the same, with an original premise, evocative descriptions, and hard-hitting themes, this slow burn crime fiction/suspense/drama sizzled between my fingertips as I inhaled page after page. Am I still struggling to come to terms with how I felt about this novel? Well, yes. Part of me loved it and part of me is—even now—mulling over what it all meant. Psychologically challenging, I’m sure this one will live with me for quite a while. So if you’re looking for a dark, disturbing tale rife with shocking secrets and deftly hidden lies, give this one a go. After all, it will certainly make you think, of that you can be sure. Rating of 3.5 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
Ruth-Ann Baker is a college dropout, a bartender—and an amateur detective who just can’t stay away from true crime. Nineteen years ago, her childhood friend was murdered by suspected serial killer Ethan Oswald. Still tormented by the case, Ruth can’t help but think of the long-dead Oswald when another young girl goes missing from the same town. And when she uncovers startling new evidence that suggests Oswald did not act alone, she is determined to find his deadly partner in crime.
Embarking on a global investigation, Ruth becomes close to three very different women—one of whom might just hold the key to what happened to the missing girl. And her childhood friend, all those years ago.
Thank you to Jacqueline Bublitz and Emily Bestler Books/Atria for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: October 29, 2024
Trigger warning: kidnapping, sick animal, assault, mention of: grooming, child death, controlling relationship
September 7, 2024
Once again @writerock11 delivers yet another fantastic thriller!! I absolutely loved that our main character of her last book got a mention too. 😍 Listen to this…
Ruth Ann Baker is obsessed… with finding out more about her BFF’s 👯♀️ killer. When another girl is abducted in her hometown.. 19 years later… Everything about it screams Ethan Oswald.. but guess what? Ethan is dead. 😬 So what is going on?? A copycat?? Or was Ethan really not working alone? 🤔
I am going to leave this right here 🤐 as not to spoil anything. A little murder… a little supernatural…and some big twists. I was guessing all the way until the very end! 👏👏Pub date is October 29th!! 🥳 I can’t wait to see what @writerock11 comes up with next!!
Ruth Ann Baker is obsessed… with finding out more about her BFF’s 👯♀️ killer. When another girl is abducted in her hometown.. 19 years later… Everything about it screams Ethan Oswald.. but guess what? Ethan is dead. 😬 So what is going on?? A copycat?? Or was Ethan really not working alone? 🤔
I am going to leave this right here 🤐 as not to spoil anything. A little murder… a little supernatural…and some big twists. I was guessing all the way until the very end! 👏👏Pub date is October 29th!! 🥳 I can’t wait to see what @writerock11 comes up with next!!
July 9, 2024
ARC for review. To be published October 29, 2024.
I just didn’t get this one. I would say maybe I don’t get trauma, but I don’t think that’s it. To me, the main character here was just making unexplained conclusions, and I guess we, as readers were just supposed to drift along with that? The whole thing was odd.
So, in it Ruth-Ann Baker, college dropout, bartender and true crime addict is still mourning the loss of her one time best friend Beth Lovely who was murdered by suspected serial killer Ethan Oswald nineteen years ago. Oswald has since died, but now it’s suspected that he did not act alone and now another girl is missing.
So, pretty typical story with not a great resolution. Can’t recommend it.
I just didn’t get this one. I would say maybe I don’t get trauma, but I don’t think that’s it. To me, the main character here was just making unexplained conclusions, and I guess we, as readers were just supposed to drift along with that? The whole thing was odd.
So, in it Ruth-Ann Baker, college dropout, bartender and true crime addict is still mourning the loss of her one time best friend Beth Lovely who was murdered by suspected serial killer Ethan Oswald nineteen years ago. Oswald has since died, but now it’s suspected that he did not act alone and now another girl is missing.
So, pretty typical story with not a great resolution. Can’t recommend it.
July 19, 2024
I feel like this book could’ve been really good. I liked the premise of her being able to see dead people to help solve crime, but for some reason it felt all over the place. And not just that- it failed to grab my attention. I am not really sure why- I can’t pinpoint what really went wrong here except the writing style. I feel like it could be edited or written differently to make it better, because it was a good premise.
Unfortunately this one was just not for me. I’ll be fair to say that I just read an AWESOME book right before this, so maybe this one following that one just made it seem worse.
Thank you to Netgalley for this free advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
Unfortunately this one was just not for me. I’ll be fair to say that I just read an AWESOME book right before this, so maybe this one following that one just made it seem worse.
Thank you to Netgalley for this free advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
August 5, 2024
I won this book in a goodreads drawing.
A young woman see the ghost of her dead best friend when a girl goes missing in her home town. The best friend was allegedly killed by a now dead serial killer, but now there's evidence that isn't what happened after all.
I skimmed a lot of pages.
A young woman see the ghost of her dead best friend when a girl goes missing in her home town. The best friend was allegedly killed by a now dead serial killer, but now there's evidence that isn't what happened after all.
I skimmed a lot of pages.
August 29, 2024
Thought-provoking, but a little too jumbled to hit as hard as it could have.
Another novel that focuses on the women behind crime, this book follows Ruth as she investigates the three women that may be connected to the murder of her friend 19 years ago.
I did enjoy the angle and I really love the way this author considers the impact of murder from multiple angles. There's some interesting insight here into the women vs women mentality that is so common in today's society, and I really enjoyed turning those thoughts over. Ruth is not a perfect heroine - her thoughts are flawed and coloured by her own traumas, and so it was interesting to try and read between the lines of what she was saying and doing.
That said, involving the other women did make this feel rather complicated, and it was hard to keep the stories straight. There seemed to be a lot of questionable coincidence, and I lost the thread a few times.
The writing was wonderful and lyrical, with some beautiful phrases and a powerful atmosphere, particularly where we met Rose. I did enjoy losing myself in the language, even if the story felt a little stilted.
I felt the idea was really clever and the themes important, but I think ultimately it was too much to keep straight. It was beautifully written for what it was, but I feel the important parts got lost a little bit in an over-complicated story.
Not quite the follow-up I'd hoped for after the standout debut, Before You Knew My Name but still some solid ideas here with beautiful writing. Worth a shot for the crime fans looking for something a little deeper.
With thanks to NetGalley for an ARC
Another novel that focuses on the women behind crime, this book follows Ruth as she investigates the three women that may be connected to the murder of her friend 19 years ago.
I did enjoy the angle and I really love the way this author considers the impact of murder from multiple angles. There's some interesting insight here into the women vs women mentality that is so common in today's society, and I really enjoyed turning those thoughts over. Ruth is not a perfect heroine - her thoughts are flawed and coloured by her own traumas, and so it was interesting to try and read between the lines of what she was saying and doing.
That said, involving the other women did make this feel rather complicated, and it was hard to keep the stories straight. There seemed to be a lot of questionable coincidence, and I lost the thread a few times.
The writing was wonderful and lyrical, with some beautiful phrases and a powerful atmosphere, particularly where we met Rose. I did enjoy losing myself in the language, even if the story felt a little stilted.
I felt the idea was really clever and the themes important, but I think ultimately it was too much to keep straight. It was beautifully written for what it was, but I feel the important parts got lost a little bit in an over-complicated story.
Not quite the follow-up I'd hoped for after the standout debut, Before You Knew My Name but still some solid ideas here with beautiful writing. Worth a shot for the crime fans looking for something a little deeper.
With thanks to NetGalley for an ARC
September 28, 2024
I did not particularly enjoy this read. I spent more time confused than not. I guess I just didn’t understand it? I felt like there were a lot of things that happened that made no sense or had no relevance. This book really had a great premise, and I was pretty excited for it to come. The plot was really disconnected, and a little all over the place. It didn’t exactly hold my attention. The ending was.. shockingly terrible. I’m not even sure what happened. Unfortunately this one had so much potential, but it fell flat for me.
December 25, 2025
This was a bingeable, atmospheric and thought-provoking thriller, that kept me guessing right up to the end.
Ruth-Ann Baker is haunted by her past, from when her childhood friend was murdered by suspected serial killer Ethan Oswald. As a college dropout, she is working as a bartender and amateur detective, when another girl goes missing from the same town. Ruth-Ann embarks on a global investigation, as she finds new evidence that Ethan Oswald was not acting alone.
I enjoyed the true crime and amateur sleuth elements, as well as the podcast storyline. I appreciate the exploration of the psychological and emotional impacts for victims of crime, and their wider support network. Despite the many difficult themes covered in this crime fiction book, it was certainly a worthwhile listen!
Ruth-Ann Baker is haunted by her past, from when her childhood friend was murdered by suspected serial killer Ethan Oswald. As a college dropout, she is working as a bartender and amateur detective, when another girl goes missing from the same town. Ruth-Ann embarks on a global investigation, as she finds new evidence that Ethan Oswald was not acting alone.
I enjoyed the true crime and amateur sleuth elements, as well as the podcast storyline. I appreciate the exploration of the psychological and emotional impacts for victims of crime, and their wider support network. Despite the many difficult themes covered in this crime fiction book, it was certainly a worthwhile listen!
October 6, 2024
Before You Knew My Name absolutely blew me away, so when Jacqueline Bublitz reached out and offered me an ARC of her new book I jumped at the chance. I was thrilled when it arrived, a US ARC and it was signed. So very generous and I am very grateful to her for sending it across the ditch to me.
Leave The Girls behind was another fabulous read from this author. It was thought provoking and kept me guessing until the end. I loved the main setting of New York where Zoe now lives. She works in a pub that plays show tunes and has a faithful canine companion. She is clearly traumatised by her past, and still can’t get over the murder of her childhood best friend 19 years ago. When another child goes missing in her hometown it brings it all back. But her friend’s killer is dead, but something is still nagging at her.
I don’t want to say too much more but this is one addictive read. With some paranormal themes, something I don’t usually like, I really enjoyed this story and it worked so well. It is emotional, intense and really got into my head.
A must read, out October 29th.
Leave The Girls behind was another fabulous read from this author. It was thought provoking and kept me guessing until the end. I loved the main setting of New York where Zoe now lives. She works in a pub that plays show tunes and has a faithful canine companion. She is clearly traumatised by her past, and still can’t get over the murder of her childhood best friend 19 years ago. When another child goes missing in her hometown it brings it all back. But her friend’s killer is dead, but something is still nagging at her.
I don’t want to say too much more but this is one addictive read. With some paranormal themes, something I don’t usually like, I really enjoyed this story and it worked so well. It is emotional, intense and really got into my head.
A must read, out October 29th.
October 23, 2024
Thank you so much to Atria Books and Jacqueline Bublitz for my copy of this book. It was about Ruth-Ann, a women who can’t stay away from true crime. She is currently an amateur detective and bartender, but nineteen years ago her childhood friend was murdered by a serial killer. She has been tormented by the case ever sense, and when another girl goes missing from the same town, she thinks maybe Oswald didn’t act alone and had a partner in crime.
What follows is Ruth’s hunt for a killer, and her infestation around the world to find three very specific women. But she’s not alone. Ruth has always been able to see the dead, and is hoping to get help from the women who Oswald murdered to avenge them.
Thoughts: This premise was so unique and interesting and I liked it a lot. The story started off with a bang and Bublitz’s writing is so propulsive and drew me in from the very beginning. It was a slow burn that pulled me into the mystery and had me asking what was really going on. There were a few things I loved, and a few things that left me wanting more.
I think the ending was a bit confusing, but the story had some solid pillars that kept me interested and engaged. Ruth’s journey around the world was interesting, and the idea of killers having protégées and mentees was something I hadn’t thought much about. I felt there were a few too many connections than there should have been, but it was an engaging story that I couldn’t put down. 4-stars!
What follows is Ruth’s hunt for a killer, and her infestation around the world to find three very specific women. But she’s not alone. Ruth has always been able to see the dead, and is hoping to get help from the women who Oswald murdered to avenge them.
Thoughts: This premise was so unique and interesting and I liked it a lot. The story started off with a bang and Bublitz’s writing is so propulsive and drew me in from the very beginning. It was a slow burn that pulled me into the mystery and had me asking what was really going on. There were a few things I loved, and a few things that left me wanting more.
I think the ending was a bit confusing, but the story had some solid pillars that kept me interested and engaged. Ruth’s journey around the world was interesting, and the idea of killers having protégées and mentees was something I hadn’t thought much about. I felt there were a few too many connections than there should have been, but it was an engaging story that I couldn’t put down. 4-stars!
November 16, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Read if you like:
🔪 serial killer stories
🔪 podcast books
🔪 single POV
🔪 single timeline
This book started with my very favourite way to start a thriller! with the opening being at the very height of the action and excitement, and then goes backwards and builds up the book. I love this way of beginning a book because it makes it literally inpossible not to get sucked in right away. It makes me NEED to continue reading the story to see how it ends.
I really like books about podcasts. It’s almost like I get 2-in-1, and I just really enjoy the reading style.
There were definitely some tough topics in here, and people should check trigger warnings before diving in to this one.
This book made me very sad and was honestly a little hard to read at times having a little girl myself, but it definitely held my attention and I raced right through it in one day. I did not see the end coming! and that is something I very much appreciate in a mystery/thriller.
Read if you like:
🔪 serial killer stories
🔪 podcast books
🔪 single POV
🔪 single timeline
This book started with my very favourite way to start a thriller! with the opening being at the very height of the action and excitement, and then goes backwards and builds up the book. I love this way of beginning a book because it makes it literally inpossible not to get sucked in right away. It makes me NEED to continue reading the story to see how it ends.
I really like books about podcasts. It’s almost like I get 2-in-1, and I just really enjoy the reading style.
There were definitely some tough topics in here, and people should check trigger warnings before diving in to this one.
This book made me very sad and was honestly a little hard to read at times having a little girl myself, but it definitely held my attention and I raced right through it in one day. I did not see the end coming! and that is something I very much appreciate in a mystery/thriller.
January 26, 2025
*
‘When a man gets pushed too far …’
👧I was lucky to be joined by the wonderful @nadsylovesbooks and together we made our way through this gripping serial killer themed suspense tale that takes a critical look at how a violent crime has the power to impact not only the victim but the ones left behind. Riveting, tight and progressive this is a crime fiction novel not to be missed.
👧This twisty thriller definitely offers something fresh in the crime genre, taking a unique look and a gender conscious lens as to how a violent crime ripples through the lives of those left behind, often in unexpected ways. The book also delves into the world and relationships of serial killers with their partners, lovers and family.
👧Bublitz brings us an unusual main protagonist in Ruth-Ann, a woman clearly grieving from the trauma of her past and a figure haunted by a group of lost girls, who she is determined to bring peace to. I was hooked on not only on each word of Ruth’s journey but the unknown narrator who takes up space in the novel in various segments. I used a great deal of brainpower and discussion time to work out who this anonymous voice belonged to. Bublitz takes us on a bumpy journey with Ruth and her wider cast, whom we are incredibly suspicious of throughout including love interest Gabe, odd teen Juno and her mother, plus Helen, a character who is concealing possible a minefield of information that Ruth desperately needs. Bublitz allocates time in her narrative to the power of podcasts, writing as a healing power to overcome trauma and the right of killer’s wives, partners, or family members to air their experiences.
👧There is so much I could say about this novel but my main point is that I feel the author really excels in turning the traditional crime fiction formula on its head. Rather than focusing solely on the nitty gritty finer details of the crime itself, the book takes a closer look at the emotional and psychological fallout, showing how the lives of those involved, can be altered in profound ways.
Bublitz doesn’t shy away from the complex emotional terrain that these crimes leave behind. Although the ending didn’t present as a showstopping “final curtain” moment and left me with a few lingering questions, the buildup was gripping. I highly recommend this one if you like something that challenges the conventions of crime fiction.
Thank you again to the amazing @nadyslovesbooks for yet another memorable buddy read experience, I definitely needed you to help clarify a number of plot details and answer all my “I wonder” moments after that ending! I can’t wait to read our next one on the list! Thank you to @allenandunwin for the review copy. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 4.5 stars
‘When a man gets pushed too far …’
👧I was lucky to be joined by the wonderful @nadsylovesbooks and together we made our way through this gripping serial killer themed suspense tale that takes a critical look at how a violent crime has the power to impact not only the victim but the ones left behind. Riveting, tight and progressive this is a crime fiction novel not to be missed.
👧This twisty thriller definitely offers something fresh in the crime genre, taking a unique look and a gender conscious lens as to how a violent crime ripples through the lives of those left behind, often in unexpected ways. The book also delves into the world and relationships of serial killers with their partners, lovers and family.
👧Bublitz brings us an unusual main protagonist in Ruth-Ann, a woman clearly grieving from the trauma of her past and a figure haunted by a group of lost girls, who she is determined to bring peace to. I was hooked on not only on each word of Ruth’s journey but the unknown narrator who takes up space in the novel in various segments. I used a great deal of brainpower and discussion time to work out who this anonymous voice belonged to. Bublitz takes us on a bumpy journey with Ruth and her wider cast, whom we are incredibly suspicious of throughout including love interest Gabe, odd teen Juno and her mother, plus Helen, a character who is concealing possible a minefield of information that Ruth desperately needs. Bublitz allocates time in her narrative to the power of podcasts, writing as a healing power to overcome trauma and the right of killer’s wives, partners, or family members to air their experiences.
👧There is so much I could say about this novel but my main point is that I feel the author really excels in turning the traditional crime fiction formula on its head. Rather than focusing solely on the nitty gritty finer details of the crime itself, the book takes a closer look at the emotional and psychological fallout, showing how the lives of those involved, can be altered in profound ways.
Bublitz doesn’t shy away from the complex emotional terrain that these crimes leave behind. Although the ending didn’t present as a showstopping “final curtain” moment and left me with a few lingering questions, the buildup was gripping. I highly recommend this one if you like something that challenges the conventions of crime fiction.
Thank you again to the amazing @nadyslovesbooks for yet another memorable buddy read experience, I definitely needed you to help clarify a number of plot details and answer all my “I wonder” moments after that ending! I can’t wait to read our next one on the list! Thank you to @allenandunwin for the review copy. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 4.5 stars
October 18, 2024
I loved the author's standout debut, Before You Knew My Name, so I had high expectations for this one. Unfortunately, Leave the Girls Behind didn't quite hit the mark for me.
The concept is clever, the writing beautiful, and the characters are well rounded and credible, but I got a little lost in the many characters and (what I felt was) an over complicated storyline. The last quarter of the book, however, had me very invested and I couldn't put it down until it was done!
I didn't love it, but I did like it, and I do suggest you give this one a read!
Thank you to Allen & Unwin and NetGalley for an eARC of Leave the Girls Behind to read and review. Expected publication date is 29/10/24
The concept is clever, the writing beautiful, and the characters are well rounded and credible, but I got a little lost in the many characters and (what I felt was) an over complicated storyline. The last quarter of the book, however, had me very invested and I couldn't put it down until it was done!
I didn't love it, but I did like it, and I do suggest you give this one a read!
Thank you to Allen & Unwin and NetGalley for an eARC of Leave the Girls Behind to read and review. Expected publication date is 29/10/24
November 17, 2024
Leave The Girls Behind is the second novel by Australian/New Zealand author, Jacqueline Bublitz. In May 1996, when Ruth-Ann Baker was seven years old, Beth Lovely, also seven and living a few strets over, was taken from a playground in her hometown of Hoben, Connecticut. Her body was found by Hoben PD’s K9 unit, buried in the woods, eleven days later. Thirty-one-year-old Hoben High School’s popular music teacher, Ethan Oswald was charged with her murder and died in prison in 2002.
Ruth-Ann’s parents took her to live in New York City, where she was often visited by Beth; Ruth-Ann stopped telling her therapists about this when they kept trying to cure her of it. The murder set her on a course to become a forensic profiler: could it help explain how to spot such a killer?
In May 2015, Ruth-Ann is working at Sweeney’s Bar when an Amber Alert hits her phone: seven-year-old Coco Wilson has been taken from her front yard in Hoben, Connecticut. It clearly can’t be Ethan, but there are so many similarities to Beth’s abduction, Ruth-Ann is itching to research it. But, after her episode five years earlier, she has promised not to get mixed up in missing girl cases.
Yet that evening, after work, there is Beth again, and soon enough, Rhea, Leila and Lori, the three girls who want Ruth-Ann to prove Ethan killed them, appear. Taking up their case, back in 2010, did not play out well: heresay from ghosts is not evidence. But Ruth-Ann’s eye for detail has them reviewing everything they know, and once again checking the “What Happened To Her” online community forum, where some new information has appeared.
Ruth manages to connect with a woman claiming to be one of Ethan’s victims, and learns things about his history that place him near enough to have murdered the three. When she posts a request for information about young women who knew Ethan Oswald around the time of the murder, discovers a bizarre links to serial killers that gives her the perfect cover for making direct inquiries. These take her to New Zealand and Norway, then back to New York City, and raise a bunch of questions.
Did Ethan have an accomplice? It begins to look like he managed to attract and charm teenaged enablers. Has someone taken over his role? Has she uncovered some sort of murder cult? Does this put her in danger? And will the police take any notice of what she has found?
Bublitz gives the reader a clever, twisty plot that explores, among other things, the hold a charismatic man can have over a needy woman, and the far-reaching effects of a child abduction. Parts of the story are told through the eyes of the seven-year-old girl who was taken and held, shackled in a locked room. There are mentions of the victim from Bublitz’s first novel, but no spoilers. Another enthralling read.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and the publishers.
Ruth-Ann’s parents took her to live in New York City, where she was often visited by Beth; Ruth-Ann stopped telling her therapists about this when they kept trying to cure her of it. The murder set her on a course to become a forensic profiler: could it help explain how to spot such a killer?
In May 2015, Ruth-Ann is working at Sweeney’s Bar when an Amber Alert hits her phone: seven-year-old Coco Wilson has been taken from her front yard in Hoben, Connecticut. It clearly can’t be Ethan, but there are so many similarities to Beth’s abduction, Ruth-Ann is itching to research it. But, after her episode five years earlier, she has promised not to get mixed up in missing girl cases.
Yet that evening, after work, there is Beth again, and soon enough, Rhea, Leila and Lori, the three girls who want Ruth-Ann to prove Ethan killed them, appear. Taking up their case, back in 2010, did not play out well: heresay from ghosts is not evidence. But Ruth-Ann’s eye for detail has them reviewing everything they know, and once again checking the “What Happened To Her” online community forum, where some new information has appeared.
Ruth manages to connect with a woman claiming to be one of Ethan’s victims, and learns things about his history that place him near enough to have murdered the three. When she posts a request for information about young women who knew Ethan Oswald around the time of the murder, discovers a bizarre links to serial killers that gives her the perfect cover for making direct inquiries. These take her to New Zealand and Norway, then back to New York City, and raise a bunch of questions.
Did Ethan have an accomplice? It begins to look like he managed to attract and charm teenaged enablers. Has someone taken over his role? Has she uncovered some sort of murder cult? Does this put her in danger? And will the police take any notice of what she has found?
Bublitz gives the reader a clever, twisty plot that explores, among other things, the hold a charismatic man can have over a needy woman, and the far-reaching effects of a child abduction. Parts of the story are told through the eyes of the seven-year-old girl who was taken and held, shackled in a locked room. There are mentions of the victim from Bublitz’s first novel, but no spoilers. Another enthralling read.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and the publishers.
September 1, 2025
When a young girl is kidnapped in Ruth’s hometown it brings back memories of her childhood when her friend Beth was kidnapped and killed by a local music teacher. Despite the killer being dead, Ruth sees similarities which make her think he may have had an accomplice and leads her to three women with links to him. All three were married to killers as well. There’s also a supernatural element where Ruth talks to the ghost of Beth and other missing girls.
I found this book hard to put down. There was plenty of mystery here that kept me reading despite it being unbelievable. Ruth’s trauma, and the more general look at violence against women is all too real.
I found this book hard to put down. There was plenty of mystery here that kept me reading despite it being unbelievable. Ruth’s trauma, and the more general look at violence against women is all too real.
August 24, 2024
I’m so sorry, I really wanted to like this one as I LOVED ‘Before you knew my name”
This one just didnt hit the mark in my opinion, and I was confused about the many different characters and where they fit in how, - just seemed a bit like a dragged out story aswell, and I was never fully entertained or felt for anyone in the book.
This one just didnt hit the mark in my opinion, and I was confused about the many different characters and where they fit in how, - just seemed a bit like a dragged out story aswell, and I was never fully entertained or felt for anyone in the book.
January 13, 2025
Leave The Girls Behind by Jacqueline is a psychological thriller about a young woman who is searching for the truth.
First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Atria/Emily Bestler Books, and the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
My Synopsis: (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions)
Ruth-Ann Baker is from Hoben Connecticut, but now works as a bartender in New York, a job her uncle got for her. She had planned to be a criminal profiler, but that changed. She is still a true crime enthusiast. She lives in an apartment owned by her uncle, and has a dog that was given to her to "look after". These things all happened after her "episode".
Almost 20 years ago, 7 1/2 year old Beth Lovely was kidnapped and murdered by Ethan Oswald. Although Oswald died in prison, Ruth is sure that he is responsible for a number of missing children, and she is determined to prove it. She also thinks he may have had an accomplice. Ruth is haunted by Beth, and other dead girls who have never gotten justice.
When another little girl goes missing from her hometown, Ruth's obsession goes into overdrive. She finds herself travelling the world in search of three women who she hopes can shed some light on what really happened all those years ago, and maybe what is happening now.
My Opinions:
First, this one is going to stick with me for quite some time! Definitely a thought-provoking thriller.
Character-wise I loved Ruth, and the people that helped her reach adulthood. There were no other characters I trusted or liked. Yes, I may have been proven wrong in a couple of cases, but most of them were despicable. I occasionally had problems keeping the women and their families straight.
The book was about secrets and lies, and looked at obsession, mental health issues, childhood trauma, and psychopaths.
The plot was really good. It kept you interested, and enthused. There was a major twist at the end, and while I didn't see it coming, it didn't really surprise me either. I actually re-read the last chapter just to make sure I got it right.
Overall, it was a rather dark and disturbing story, but one where you had someone to cheer for, so you hung on til the end. I'll have to find this author's first book now....
For a more complete review of this book and others (including the reason I chose to read/review this book, as well as author information), please visit my blog: http://katlovesbooksblog.wordpress.com/
October 31, 2024
this book was one of those where it sounded great in theory but the execution… not so much. 🫠
i found myself incredibly bored almost the entire time, i actually had my phone start reading it to me because i was in it just enough to wonder what will go down and didnt wanna dnf just yet and was honestly bewildered when i had opened my phone to see that i still had another 30% to go till the end of the book when i had thought things were about to start wrapping up 😂
i find that it may be partly my fault with not enjoying this as much as i did go into it heavily assuming it would be a thriller, but in my opinion it was more mystery/sleuthing on account of ??? the paranormal “i see dead girls” part was also very underwhelming, the whole book was but mostly this part for me.
overall the story was too all over the place, none of the characters had much depth to them, i dont understand why her parents are so stand offish either… one would think given everything that happened they’d be very active in her life? one of my favorite relationships in this was between ruth and officer canton, i loved that he always believed her and supported her where others didnt. special shout out to joe, gideon and owen because you could also tell these three really cared about ruth, i wish we would have seen them more tbh.
i dont feel like there was much of a conclusion to this entire book as a semi abrupt ending & a chapter of utter nonsense, maybe im just stupid and lacking the correct critical thinking skills for said chapter but it made no sense for me lol, i truly dont see the purpose in including it but to each their own.
i found myself incredibly bored almost the entire time, i actually had my phone start reading it to me because i was in it just enough to wonder what will go down and didnt wanna dnf just yet and was honestly bewildered when i had opened my phone to see that i still had another 30% to go till the end of the book when i had thought things were about to start wrapping up 😂
i find that it may be partly my fault with not enjoying this as much as i did go into it heavily assuming it would be a thriller, but in my opinion it was more mystery/sleuthing on account of ??? the paranormal “i see dead girls” part was also very underwhelming, the whole book was but mostly this part for me.
overall the story was too all over the place, none of the characters had much depth to them, i dont understand why her parents are so stand offish either… one would think given everything that happened they’d be very active in her life? one of my favorite relationships in this was between ruth and officer canton, i loved that he always believed her and supported her where others didnt. special shout out to joe, gideon and owen because you could also tell these three really cared about ruth, i wish we would have seen them more tbh.
i dont feel like there was much of a conclusion to this entire book as a semi abrupt ending & a chapter of utter nonsense, maybe im just stupid and lacking the correct critical thinking skills for said chapter but it made no sense for me lol, i truly dont see the purpose in including it but to each their own.
November 8, 2024
Jacqueline Bublitz’s debut was fantastic and I imagine it was difficult to write a follow up to such a well-received book. Unfortunately this one fell a little flat for me. I just didn’t connect with the characters in the same way I did with her debut novel. It was also missing the haunting feel of that story.
Read
November 17, 2024DNF 15%
August 20, 2024
I do not like leaving negative reviews, but I have to say I really struggled with this one. The story is based around a girl named Ruth Barker, who has a true crime addiction. Ruth currently works in a bar but nineteen years ago she lost her best friend who was murdered by the infamous Ethan Oswald. Now there is another death, and it is looking highly likely that Ethan, although he has since passed away himself, may have had an accomplice when he was committing murder. Ruth then trails three other women that she believes can prove this theory to be correct
I found the plot rather slow and underwhelming and did not feel the characters had any great depth to them which in turn did not add anything to the story. All in all, it was difficult to stay engaged throughout the book and when my mind starts to wander like this I struggle. I did finish the book, but I cannot say that t will be one I remember
Thank you to Netgalley the author and publisher for an advanced copy of the book, all opinions are my own. 2 stars rounded up to 2.5.
I found the plot rather slow and underwhelming and did not feel the characters had any great depth to them which in turn did not add anything to the story. All in all, it was difficult to stay engaged throughout the book and when my mind starts to wander like this I struggle. I did finish the book, but I cannot say that t will be one I remember
Thank you to Netgalley the author and publisher for an advanced copy of the book, all opinions are my own. 2 stars rounded up to 2.5.
July 10, 2024
Jacqueline Buitz’s latest thriller, Leave the Girls Behind, follows true crime addict Ruth-Ann Baker as she tries to uncover the truth behind her childhood friend’s murder.
Somehow, I didn’t realize that “a fresh suspense novel about a woman haunted by a serial killer and the ghosts he left behind” meant the MC was literally haunted by her best friend and other victims. I’m not a fan of supernatural elements, so that oversight is totally on me; unfortunately, it kind of diminished my overall enjoyment of the book.
Beyond that, I found the story to be a bit predictable and a little… strange? I’m not sure how to describe it. Something just felt off to me.
I can see why others would find Leave the Girls Behind entertaining and captivating, but it wasn’t my cup of tea.
Thank you to NetGalley and Atria Books for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Somehow, I didn’t realize that “a fresh suspense novel about a woman haunted by a serial killer and the ghosts he left behind” meant the MC was literally haunted by her best friend and other victims. I’m not a fan of supernatural elements, so that oversight is totally on me; unfortunately, it kind of diminished my overall enjoyment of the book.
Beyond that, I found the story to be a bit predictable and a little… strange? I’m not sure how to describe it. Something just felt off to me.
I can see why others would find Leave the Girls Behind entertaining and captivating, but it wasn’t my cup of tea.
Thank you to NetGalley and Atria Books for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 25, 2024
Sighs…a lot of this book is terrible. Some of it is good and twisty. Most of it is nonsense and requires you to ignore reality. The ending was nonexistent and utter trash.
Has potential, but missed the mark. 🤷🏾♀️
Has potential, but missed the mark. 🤷🏾♀️
October 25, 2024
I’ve read very mixed reviews with this one and I have to say, I feel it! Leave The Girls Behind is a very atmospheric, suspense building novel about a girl, seemingly orphaned, obsessed with the trauma of her past. Every chapter felt like midnight. There’s also a paranormal aspect as the main character works with other victims of this serial killer to solve the mystery of her friends murder.
The pacing of this story needs a little work, I think it can be difficult to build up a background story while still keeping the chapters exciting. This seems to be the case here as the story revs up and slows down frequently. Overall, I enjoyed the novel, but still struggled to get through it.
The pacing of this story needs a little work, I think it can be difficult to build up a background story while still keeping the chapters exciting. This seems to be the case here as the story revs up and slows down frequently. Overall, I enjoyed the novel, but still struggled to get through it.
November 1, 2024
Happy publication day 🎉🥳
I found this title really challenging to get my head around. I understood the precise, appreciated the story and the message around the trauma that Ruth lives with, but in all honesty I struggled to follow the course of events and had to keep skipping back, and then this was going to be a really great review, right up until the end made me feel icky. I don’t really have much more to say. Every trigger warning applies.
Not everything is for everyone, you may love it!
I’m off to read lighter things for a while.
The narration by Stephanie cannon was excellent.
My thanks to Wavesound by W F Howes for this ELC via NetGalley.
I found this title really challenging to get my head around. I understood the precise, appreciated the story and the message around the trauma that Ruth lives with, but in all honesty I struggled to follow the course of events and had to keep skipping back, and then this was going to be a really great review, right up until the end made me feel icky. I don’t really have much more to say. Every trigger warning applies.
Not everything is for everyone, you may love it!
I’m off to read lighter things for a while.
The narration by Stephanie cannon was excellent.
My thanks to Wavesound by W F Howes for this ELC via NetGalley.
June 17, 2025
Was enjoying the set up, then the last third of the book fell apart ://
October 14, 2024
3.5/5
Thank you @atriabooks @simon.audio #emilybestlerbooks #partner for the copies of this book!
Wow, this one will grab you from page one and not let you go! The unreliable narrator, Ruth Ann, was by far my favorite part of this book! She really grew on me as the story went on. Ruth Ann is trying to uncover what is happening in her town as she tries to piece together a murder from her childhood. Her good friend was murdered as a child and now as a grown adult, another young girl was kidnapped in her hometown and it seems like it could be the same killers calling card from all those years ago. The problem with that is…the original killer is dead. So just what is happening here? Ruth Ann becomes a bit of an internet sleuth, a persistent interviewer, and fellow citizen who knows she can make a difference in this cold case and is relentless until then end. Although the book slow a little in the middle for me, the ending will be sure to shock you with the twists! This supernatural thriller comes out at the end of the month so make sure to check it out!
Thank you @atriabooks @simon.audio #emilybestlerbooks #partner for the copies of this book!
Wow, this one will grab you from page one and not let you go! The unreliable narrator, Ruth Ann, was by far my favorite part of this book! She really grew on me as the story went on. Ruth Ann is trying to uncover what is happening in her town as she tries to piece together a murder from her childhood. Her good friend was murdered as a child and now as a grown adult, another young girl was kidnapped in her hometown and it seems like it could be the same killers calling card from all those years ago. The problem with that is…the original killer is dead. So just what is happening here? Ruth Ann becomes a bit of an internet sleuth, a persistent interviewer, and fellow citizen who knows she can make a difference in this cold case and is relentless until then end. Although the book slow a little in the middle for me, the ending will be sure to shock you with the twists! This supernatural thriller comes out at the end of the month so make sure to check it out!
January 6, 2025
Thank you Atria for the ARC copy of this book!
This one didn’t hit the mark for me. It was very slow paced and I couldn’t connect with the storyline at all. It was intriguing that she was haunted by ghosts of the past and I found their characters to be fun. I just wish there was more thrill and angst to this book. There was just something missing from it and left me feeling disappointed.
This one didn’t hit the mark for me. It was very slow paced and I couldn’t connect with the storyline at all. It was intriguing that she was haunted by ghosts of the past and I found their characters to be fun. I just wish there was more thrill and angst to this book. There was just something missing from it and left me feeling disappointed.
October 14, 2024
SO not my usual genre, and not at all subject matter I gravitate to. But I can certainly appreciate Leave the Girls Behind is well written, the settings of New York, New Zealand and Oslo so well done. The girls are so hauntingly real.
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