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In the Days Before
Audrey Herringbone’s main focus has always been her content dedicated to helping find missing persons, but when her best friend is the one to go missing things start getting a little too real.
Audrey’s friends don't agree with the subject matter of her video series, In the Days Before. They think talking about missing persons is too morbid a topic, and insist she would find more fame as a beauty blogger. They don't agree that her work is important. Who wants to talk about the missing when you could talk about fashion? For them, it's a no-brainer.
Then Audrey's best friend goes missing, several hours after they publicly argue about her channel, and Audrey becomes the public's number one suspect.
Thrust head first into one of her channel's narratives, Audrey's about to learn that sometimes the obvious answer isn't the right one—and you can never be too careful who you trust.
Audrey’s friends don't agree with the subject matter of her video series, In the Days Before. They think talking about missing persons is too morbid a topic, and insist she would find more fame as a beauty blogger. They don't agree that her work is important. Who wants to talk about the missing when you could talk about fashion? For them, it's a no-brainer.
Then Audrey's best friend goes missing, several hours after they publicly argue about her channel, and Audrey becomes the public's number one suspect.
Thrust head first into one of her channel's narratives, Audrey's about to learn that sometimes the obvious answer isn't the right one—and you can never be too careful who you trust.
297 pages, ebook
Published October 23, 2024
13 people are currently reading
80 people want to read
About the author
Renée Shantel
3 books33 followersRenée Shantel started writing at the age of eleven, for no better reason than she was tired of waiting for Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix to be released. She has entertained dreams of being published ever since.
She has taken several short courses in creative writing, book editing and publishing, and managed to have her first short story published in May, 2017.
When not writing, she can be found trying to rekindle her love of photography, casually learning to play the violin, or smothering her cats with love.
She has taken several short courses in creative writing, book editing and publishing, and managed to have her first short story published in May, 2017.
When not writing, she can be found trying to rekindle her love of photography, casually learning to play the violin, or smothering her cats with love.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
October 22, 2024
This is a great YA thriller. It kept me on my toes, it kept me guessing & I wanted all the answers. I felt the tension, the anger, the fear and the sadness through the words and if a book can do that, then that’s a good thing in my opinion.
We follow Audrey, a year 11 schoolgirl and her group of friends as they navigate life with a friend who is missing. This book does well at bringing to light issues revolving around social media and the internet.
I did want more, more expansion on the threat to Audrey as a suspect, more delving into information - more “a good girls guide to murder” vibes, maybe. Ultimately, I really enjoyed this book and was hooked and would recommend it as an easy intro thriller book for teens and up.
Thank you to the author for an early review copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
We follow Audrey, a year 11 schoolgirl and her group of friends as they navigate life with a friend who is missing. This book does well at bringing to light issues revolving around social media and the internet.
I did want more, more expansion on the threat to Audrey as a suspect, more delving into information - more “a good girls guide to murder” vibes, maybe. Ultimately, I really enjoyed this book and was hooked and would recommend it as an easy intro thriller book for teens and up.
Thank you to the author for an early review copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 17, 2024
ARC Review
I ended up quite enjoying this one! In the Days Before tells the story of Audrey, a highschooler with a budding fascination with true crime and missing persons cases. When her best friend goes missing, Audrey finds herself in the centre of the types of investigations she talks about on her youtube channel.
For an indie published book, this was reasonably well polished. I only came across one mistake in the book (Renee, if you're reading, check chapter 3, end of the first paragraph). Indie books often don't have the same access to editors and tools as a trad published books, so for it to be as tidy as it was is impressive. I think the cover is also quite good, and will draw in those who are fans of the genre.
The mystery side of things was good. I figured out who it was quite early on, but that's not necessarily a bad thing, and the author also threw in a few other red herrings and tricks here and there that were plausible enough to be considered. There was no cheating by the author, which I love, and you could follow the mystery along and solve it along with Audrey, or, if you're more vibes based, just sit back and enjoy the ride. There are certain parts that are a little predictable or cliche, particularly if you've read a lot of the genre, but for younger readers, or people new to mystery, I think they would still enjoy it.
The pacing was pretty good, though the beginning felt both slow and rushed at the same time. There were a lot of characters to introduce and build in a short amount of time and I think part of that was the reason character development wasn't the best. Audrey's 'friends' were very two dimensional caricatures of what people seem to think teenage girls are all about. Shopping and boys. And while yes, that is a very large part of growing up, it is a bit of a trope to have the vapid popular, mean girls pitched against the 'not like other girls' main character. I also struggled to believe how Audrey could be friends with any of them, especially when we were told that Jackie was her best friend. I was given no evidence to support this and I just didn't buy it. Quite a lot later in the book it's mentioned that they were close during primary school and that things had changed in high school. But they're in year 11 now. That's a lot of time to change. I feel like I needed more between Jackie and Audrey to really make me invest in their relationship.
I will say, I did quite like the main character. Audrey had all the hall marks of the 'not like other girls' trope, but she never seemed to buy into herself and seemed happy to let others live their life if she could live hers. She wasn't annoying or overly angsty. She was quite sweet, considerate and sensible. Having come off a few books in a row where I really despised the FMC, Audrey almost felt like a breath of fresh air. I also quite like the friendship she developed with Lenore through out the book.
The writing itself definitely improved towards the end of the book as I felt the author really began to settle in to the story and hit her stride. It has been left open for a sequel, I think, which is fine. If there is no sequel planned then I don't think the ending was particularly well handled, as there are still a lot of things that were never addressed. For a YA Mystery novel, I think the author did a really good job of having the main character, Audrey, conceivably involved in the investigation without going beyond the realms of possibilities. Audrey never set off to play cop and was sensible in the part she played in helping find Jackie, which I appreciated.
All in all, an entertaining read, and, I think, a good introduction to mystery novels for young adults. I also really look forward to seeing what this Author does next, because I think they can go a long way from here.
I ended up quite enjoying this one! In the Days Before tells the story of Audrey, a highschooler with a budding fascination with true crime and missing persons cases. When her best friend goes missing, Audrey finds herself in the centre of the types of investigations she talks about on her youtube channel.
For an indie published book, this was reasonably well polished. I only came across one mistake in the book (Renee, if you're reading, check chapter 3, end of the first paragraph). Indie books often don't have the same access to editors and tools as a trad published books, so for it to be as tidy as it was is impressive. I think the cover is also quite good, and will draw in those who are fans of the genre.
The mystery side of things was good. I figured out who it was quite early on, but that's not necessarily a bad thing, and the author also threw in a few other red herrings and tricks here and there that were plausible enough to be considered. There was no cheating by the author, which I love, and you could follow the mystery along and solve it along with Audrey, or, if you're more vibes based, just sit back and enjoy the ride. There are certain parts that are a little predictable or cliche, particularly if you've read a lot of the genre, but for younger readers, or people new to mystery, I think they would still enjoy it.
The pacing was pretty good, though the beginning felt both slow and rushed at the same time. There were a lot of characters to introduce and build in a short amount of time and I think part of that was the reason character development wasn't the best. Audrey's 'friends' were very two dimensional caricatures of what people seem to think teenage girls are all about. Shopping and boys. And while yes, that is a very large part of growing up, it is a bit of a trope to have the vapid popular, mean girls pitched against the 'not like other girls' main character. I also struggled to believe how Audrey could be friends with any of them, especially when we were told that Jackie was her best friend. I was given no evidence to support this and I just didn't buy it. Quite a lot later in the book it's mentioned that they were close during primary school and that things had changed in high school. But they're in year 11 now. That's a lot of time to change. I feel like I needed more between Jackie and Audrey to really make me invest in their relationship.
I will say, I did quite like the main character. Audrey had all the hall marks of the 'not like other girls' trope, but she never seemed to buy into herself and seemed happy to let others live their life if she could live hers. She wasn't annoying or overly angsty. She was quite sweet, considerate and sensible. Having come off a few books in a row where I really despised the FMC, Audrey almost felt like a breath of fresh air. I also quite like the friendship she developed with Lenore through out the book.
The writing itself definitely improved towards the end of the book as I felt the author really began to settle in to the story and hit her stride. It has been left open for a sequel, I think, which is fine. If there is no sequel planned then I don't think the ending was particularly well handled, as there are still a lot of things that were never addressed. For a YA Mystery novel, I think the author did a really good job of having the main character, Audrey, conceivably involved in the investigation without going beyond the realms of possibilities. Audrey never set off to play cop and was sensible in the part she played in helping find Jackie, which I appreciated.
All in all, an entertaining read, and, I think, a good introduction to mystery novels for young adults. I also really look forward to seeing what this Author does next, because I think they can go a long way from here.
November 28, 2024
From the very beginning, I was completely invested in the outcome of this story. I found myself constantly guessing and theorising about what might have happened, which kept me turning the pages. However, one thing that threw me off slightly was how quickly the characters and police jumped to sinister conclusions, even when the evidence seemed to suggest otherwise. In real missing persons cases, theories are typically kept private unless backed by solid evidence, as public appeals are usually evidence-based. For example, the missing person’s laptop and phone being gone would require more concrete investigation before assuming foul play, and discussing her messages or “other guys” without verifying them felt more like hearsay.
That said, the twists in this book were fantastic. The final sentence of Chapter 15 left my jaw on the floor, and Chapter 17 delivered another shocking moment that kept me hooked.
I’ll admit, I didn’t suspect the killer at all. I genuinely thought this was going to be a story raising awareness about the dangers of forming friendships online, especially with the discussions around cyber safety. While I appreciated that topic being introduced, I was surprised to see the story lean in a different direction, which at times felt like it glorified risky behaviour rather than critiquing it.
That being said, this was a fabulous story, written exceptionally well. While I didn’t feel it carried an underlying message as I initially expected, I thoroughly enjoyed it and can absolutely see this author creating something spectacular in the future.
That said, the twists in this book were fantastic. The final sentence of Chapter 15 left my jaw on the floor, and Chapter 17 delivered another shocking moment that kept me hooked.
I’ll admit, I didn’t suspect the killer at all. I genuinely thought this was going to be a story raising awareness about the dangers of forming friendships online, especially with the discussions around cyber safety. While I appreciated that topic being introduced, I was surprised to see the story lean in a different direction, which at times felt like it glorified risky behaviour rather than critiquing it.
That being said, this was a fabulous story, written exceptionally well. While I didn’t feel it carried an underlying message as I initially expected, I thoroughly enjoyed it and can absolutely see this author creating something spectacular in the future.
July 2, 2024
Arc Reader 📚
Audrey Herringbone is a high school student living in the suburbs of Sydney.
For years she has been focused on creating content for a YouTube channel with very few followers, based on missing persons, more than likely spurred on by the disappearance of her father when she was a child. She is a good student, a kind daughter to an overworked mother, has a solid group of girlfriends, and an online friend Matt whom she trusts implicitly, but has never met in real life.
This YA novel is written in great detail, counting down the days, hours and minutes after Audrey’s best friend goes missing, right after they fight over the direction and subject matter of her YouTube channel.
A thrilling read, you will find yourself in Audrey’s shoes, experiencing the wrath of old friends, accusations, suspicions, and more. Where has Jacquie gone? Has someone taken her? This book unravels at a fast pace, engaging the reader to play detective and try and find out who ‘did it’.
As an adult reader, the ending might have been a little obvious but for a YA audience, it is a great lead into true crime / mystery / thriller reads.
*available for pre order now + paperbacks available Oct 23rd 2024
Audrey Herringbone is a high school student living in the suburbs of Sydney.
For years she has been focused on creating content for a YouTube channel with very few followers, based on missing persons, more than likely spurred on by the disappearance of her father when she was a child. She is a good student, a kind daughter to an overworked mother, has a solid group of girlfriends, and an online friend Matt whom she trusts implicitly, but has never met in real life.
This YA novel is written in great detail, counting down the days, hours and minutes after Audrey’s best friend goes missing, right after they fight over the direction and subject matter of her YouTube channel.
A thrilling read, you will find yourself in Audrey’s shoes, experiencing the wrath of old friends, accusations, suspicions, and more. Where has Jacquie gone? Has someone taken her? This book unravels at a fast pace, engaging the reader to play detective and try and find out who ‘did it’.
As an adult reader, the ending might have been a little obvious but for a YA audience, it is a great lead into true crime / mystery / thriller reads.
*available for pre order now + paperbacks available Oct 23rd 2024
June 21, 2024
ARC Reader 📚
I went through so many emotions while reading this. From my heart breaking for Audrey and how she was treated to wanting to take her by the shoulders, shake her and scream 'Open your eyes!'.
The biggest plot twist - I definitely did not see that one coming. I nearly dropped my phone while reading that one sentence.
I honestly feel like more people should read this, especially young people - as it shows the dangers of social media as well as that people are not always who/what they seem to be.
The story was a little slow‐paced (compared to what I'm used to) but it is still really well written, and so worth reading.
I went through so many emotions while reading this. From my heart breaking for Audrey and how she was treated to wanting to take her by the shoulders, shake her and scream 'Open your eyes!'.
The biggest plot twist - I definitely did not see that one coming. I nearly dropped my phone while reading that one sentence.
I honestly feel like more people should read this, especially young people - as it shows the dangers of social media as well as that people are not always who/what they seem to be.
The story was a little slow‐paced (compared to what I'm used to) but it is still really well written, and so worth reading.
August 19, 2024
Loved this book. Had me feeling all the feels. Audrey is so into her channel on YouTube. There are twists that you don't see coming. This YA mystery is really good and should be read by everyone.
July 8, 2024
Unputdownable is not a word I use lightly. But I'm using it for this book.
The book tells the story of Audrey, an earnest, wholesome girl who makes videos about missing people. When her best friend goes missing and she becomes a suspect, her work suddenly takes on even greater importance.
What I loved:
What makes In The Days Before shine is its pitch-perfect descriptions. Renée is gifted at creating a vivid picture in just a few words. I very rarely highlight in my Kindle, and yet I've highlighted hundreds of her amazing descriptions simply because they're brilliant and I want to read them again. I also particularly loved the description of the formal dance, where Audrey expected a movie-esque scenario and it turned out to be much more low-budget. It's clear the author has a brilliant sense of humour, since I found myself laughing quite a few times.
The characters. There's a cast of great characters, each really well developed. Audrey's motivation for creating these videos is fleshed out nicely, without turning into a cliche. The author has done a brilliant job at balancing this.
The twists. I like to think I'm fairly good at figuring out mysteries, but I only saw the truth right at the very end...
The plot. I love twisty mysteries and this did a great job at keeping me hooked all the way through. I was torn between wanting to race through the book and also not wanting it to end!!
What I didn't love so much:
Absolutely nothing. If I could give more than five stars, I would. Do yourself a favour and pre-order it now.
The fact that there's no sequel out yet 🤣 (Seriously, I think there's scope for another book. I'd absolutely love to see Audrey solve the mystery of her father's disappearance. And maybe Matt could move closer to hers so he ends up going to her school, as I really liked him as a character and it would be great to see their relationship play out.)
I received this book as an ARC and this review is my own, honest opinion. Thank you so much for the ARC copy, Renée, I loved it.
The book tells the story of Audrey, an earnest, wholesome girl who makes videos about missing people. When her best friend goes missing and she becomes a suspect, her work suddenly takes on even greater importance.
What I loved:
What makes In The Days Before shine is its pitch-perfect descriptions. Renée is gifted at creating a vivid picture in just a few words. I very rarely highlight in my Kindle, and yet I've highlighted hundreds of her amazing descriptions simply because they're brilliant and I want to read them again. I also particularly loved the description of the formal dance, where Audrey expected a movie-esque scenario and it turned out to be much more low-budget. It's clear the author has a brilliant sense of humour, since I found myself laughing quite a few times.
The characters. There's a cast of great characters, each really well developed. Audrey's motivation for creating these videos is fleshed out nicely, without turning into a cliche. The author has done a brilliant job at balancing this.
The twists. I like to think I'm fairly good at figuring out mysteries, but I only saw the truth right at the very end...
The plot. I love twisty mysteries and this did a great job at keeping me hooked all the way through. I was torn between wanting to race through the book and also not wanting it to end!!
What I didn't love so much:
Absolutely nothing. If I could give more than five stars, I would. Do yourself a favour and pre-order it now.
The fact that there's no sequel out yet 🤣 (Seriously, I think there's scope for another book. I'd absolutely love to see Audrey solve the mystery of her father's disappearance. And maybe Matt could move closer to hers so he ends up going to her school, as I really liked him as a character and it would be great to see their relationship play out.)
I received this book as an ARC and this review is my own, honest opinion. Thank you so much for the ARC copy, Renée, I loved it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 2, 2024
I have been given the honor once more to receive an advanced reader’s copy of this lovely gem from its author. I only hope I can do her justice in this review. “In the Days Before” follows high school student Audrey who runs a missing persons channel on YouTube. First of all girl, proud of you for that dedication to finding the lost. Your passion is seen and it’s heard. Not everyone is a fan of this brand of hobby as her friend Jackie makes it clear that it’s soo lame. Well that attitude is not seen for long as she goes missing GASP!
Audrey is immediately thrown into the investigation and is also a part of it. This book is filled with suspense, mystery, thrills, and just a little bit of romance!
I honestly have so many good things to say about this book. The authors passion is clearly seen in the language that she uses and her descriptions of events are so vivid you’re literally right there with Audrey experiencing the terrors and the fear of losing her best friend and wondering if she’ll ever see her again.
Would I love to see more of Audrey? Absolutely! The ending of this book does leave things open ended but it also gives them a completion arc as well.
This review also does not do this book justice. Read it for yourself! Get hooked like I did. Join the hype!
Audrey is immediately thrown into the investigation and is also a part of it. This book is filled with suspense, mystery, thrills, and just a little bit of romance!
I honestly have so many good things to say about this book. The authors passion is clearly seen in the language that she uses and her descriptions of events are so vivid you’re literally right there with Audrey experiencing the terrors and the fear of losing her best friend and wondering if she’ll ever see her again.
Would I love to see more of Audrey? Absolutely! The ending of this book does leave things open ended but it also gives them a completion arc as well.
This review also does not do this book justice. Read it for yourself! Get hooked like I did. Join the hype!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 3, 2024
The wailing of police sirens would be the soundtrack to her nightmares.
Was there a monster among them?
Was it ethereal, or was there a horror story about to unfold?
-----
This superbly-crafted book can best be described as "a ghoulish tale without any ghouls." It dives deep into the frightening reality that is social media, the internet, the media itself, gossip, and high school dynamics all intermixed. It also highlights that trust is a sacred concept -- but you need to be prudent as to whom you give it.
What makes this such a gripping read is the fact that I truly suspected everyone of the crime against Jackie. I would flip flop from one character to another, as each had notice and suspicious characteristics. Audrey also second guesses these characters, making her just as skeptical as the reader. The twist toward the end was harrowing. I was reading in the dark and had to turn the lights on!
If you enjoy Pretty Little Liars, Without A Trace, and Cold Case, you will enjoy this true crime YA novel!
Was there a monster among them?
Was it ethereal, or was there a horror story about to unfold?
-----
This superbly-crafted book can best be described as "a ghoulish tale without any ghouls." It dives deep into the frightening reality that is social media, the internet, the media itself, gossip, and high school dynamics all intermixed. It also highlights that trust is a sacred concept -- but you need to be prudent as to whom you give it.
What makes this such a gripping read is the fact that I truly suspected everyone of the crime against Jackie. I would flip flop from one character to another, as each had notice and suspicious characteristics. Audrey also second guesses these characters, making her just as skeptical as the reader. The twist toward the end was harrowing. I was reading in the dark and had to turn the lights on!
If you enjoy Pretty Little Liars, Without A Trace, and Cold Case, you will enjoy this true crime YA novel!
July 8, 2024
Arc Reader 📚 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Really wasn’t sure what to expect with this book but it was absolutely fantastic. Kept me hooked and wanting to read until the early hours of the morning.
Audrey is a young girl who has a YouTube channel dedicated to trying to find missing persons, her best friend ends up then going missing and she takes it upon herself to try and help solve it. Honestly, the way she was treated was awful, but then again girls at school are terribly mean so I think it was portrayed how it would happen in real life.
It also shows the dangers of social media and making you think who could be watching.
The plot twist in it was also perfect! I genuinely didn’t see it coming at all!
Recommend everyone to get this on their TBR, release date is 23/10/24.
Really wasn’t sure what to expect with this book but it was absolutely fantastic. Kept me hooked and wanting to read until the early hours of the morning.
Audrey is a young girl who has a YouTube channel dedicated to trying to find missing persons, her best friend ends up then going missing and she takes it upon herself to try and help solve it. Honestly, the way she was treated was awful, but then again girls at school are terribly mean so I think it was portrayed how it would happen in real life.
It also shows the dangers of social media and making you think who could be watching.
The plot twist in it was also perfect! I genuinely didn’t see it coming at all!
Recommend everyone to get this on their TBR, release date is 23/10/24.
July 2, 2024
ARC Reader 📚
Expected Release Date - Oct 23 2024
I really enjoyed reading this book. I really felt for the main Character, Audrey, and the journey she went through. The way she was treated was pretty bad, which was really sad, but also frustrating because she deserved so much better.
When I thought I had things figured out, one sentence, and plot twisted, so to say I was surprised was an understatement.
If you enjoy anything relating to true crime, then you will really enjoy this book.
Expected Release Date - Oct 23 2024
I really enjoyed reading this book. I really felt for the main Character, Audrey, and the journey she went through. The way she was treated was pretty bad, which was really sad, but also frustrating because she deserved so much better.
When I thought I had things figured out, one sentence, and plot twisted, so to say I was surprised was an understatement.
If you enjoy anything relating to true crime, then you will really enjoy this book.
October 31, 2024
So this book was so good 👏🏻
I read the whole book in a day!
It gave me ‘a good girls guide to murder’ vibes. 🫣
I never would have guessed it would have been Jackson and ngl how we found out? Very anticlimactic…
I did like the book though hense why I gave it 4 star on here, but it was more a 3.5 for me though.
The plot was good and I liked hearing from all the characters 🤷🏻♀️
Some of them I hated, aka Danielle & Penny 😦
Made it all about them.. shock
I read the whole book in a day!
It gave me ‘a good girls guide to murder’ vibes. 🫣
I never would have guessed it would have been Jackson and ngl how we found out? Very anticlimactic…
I did like the book though hense why I gave it 4 star on here, but it was more a 3.5 for me though.
The plot was good and I liked hearing from all the characters 🤷🏻♀️
Some of them I hated, aka Danielle & Penny 😦
Made it all about them.. shock
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 23, 2025
I was not expecting that plot twist!!! With that said, I really did not like Jackie at all. I'm not sad about what happened to her, she seemed really shallow and judgemental.
That ending was SO GOOD. I'm really glad Audrey and Matt got to meet and he wasn't some weirdo.
Definitely was refreshing to read about a story set in Australia.
That ending was SO GOOD. I'm really glad Audrey and Matt got to meet and he wasn't some weirdo.
Definitely was refreshing to read about a story set in Australia.
August 25, 2025
✨ARC Review✨
I love a good mystery/suspense read, add in the high school drama and this book was so good! 🖤
I felt so bad for poor Audrey and how she was treated. But this really takes you back to high school life with fake friends, bitchy comments and the need for attention.
(If your high school experience wasn’t like this then cool, how’s it feel being gods favourite? 🙄).
The mystery, drama, questions and suspense had me devouring this book. So many twists and turns had me thinking ‘I know who did it’ then being completely wrong. And I still couldn’t guess who it was until the end. 🙈
Loved this read, was a nice clean ✨pallet cleanser✨ from what I’ve been reading lately. 😂
Bonus points, it’s based in Australia which had my lil down unda’ bum jumping for joy because I knew what a formal was straight away. 😎
I love a good mystery/suspense read, add in the high school drama and this book was so good! 🖤
I felt so bad for poor Audrey and how she was treated. But this really takes you back to high school life with fake friends, bitchy comments and the need for attention.
(If your high school experience wasn’t like this then cool, how’s it feel being gods favourite? 🙄).
The mystery, drama, questions and suspense had me devouring this book. So many twists and turns had me thinking ‘I know who did it’ then being completely wrong. And I still couldn’t guess who it was until the end. 🙈
Loved this read, was a nice clean ✨pallet cleanser✨ from what I’ve been reading lately. 😂
Bonus points, it’s based in Australia which had my lil down unda’ bum jumping for joy because I knew what a formal was straight away. 😎
October 30, 2024
In the Days Before
My Rating: 2.5/5
Spice Rating: 🌶️
Recommended for 14+
Overall:
This was a nice, fun read. Slow-paced mystery isn't usually the genre I go for but the story was engaging and the writing sort of sucks you in. However I felt like the author just winged it? The plot and characters kept shifting suddenly which was confusing and hard to relate to.
Plot: 2.5/5
The plot wasn't linear, the ending and the deductions didn't make much sense as the clues didn't stand out to me. Every time Jackie made a "deduction" I was just left wondering how she figured it out.
Too much happened by chance, the characters always happened to be at the right place at the right time, which felt like plot armor and it wasn't very enjoyable. For example, the killer was found because he gave "werid vibes".
There was also a plot hole (I think. Maybe I just missed something.) of Audrey's message being read on her best friend's phone. I don't know why, but the writing made it seem as though that were an important point but nothing was added to it later on.
The story also lost its grip on me after Jackie's body was found since the investigation still continued to be as lax as ever.
Worldbuilding: 2/5
There wasn't much to build since this was a contemporary mystery. Audrey's neighborhood and school are described, we also get the faint idea that this is in a city (probably somewhere in the U.S) but other than that there isn't much to imagine.
Characters: 3/5
My favorite was Matt obviously. I wish I could say that I hate Jackson but I just felt like his character was unrealistic.
My Rating: 2.5/5
Spice Rating: 🌶️
Recommended for 14+
Overall:
This was a nice, fun read. Slow-paced mystery isn't usually the genre I go for but the story was engaging and the writing sort of sucks you in. However I felt like the author just winged it? The plot and characters kept shifting suddenly which was confusing and hard to relate to.
Plot: 2.5/5
The plot wasn't linear, the ending and the deductions didn't make much sense as the clues didn't stand out to me. Every time Jackie made a "deduction" I was just left wondering how she figured it out.
Too much happened by chance, the characters always happened to be at the right place at the right time, which felt like plot armor and it wasn't very enjoyable. For example, the killer was found because he gave "werid vibes".
There was also a plot hole (I think. Maybe I just missed something.) of Audrey's message being read on her best friend's phone. I don't know why, but the writing made it seem as though that were an important point but nothing was added to it later on.
The story also lost its grip on me after Jackie's body was found since the investigation still continued to be as lax as ever.
Worldbuilding: 2/5
There wasn't much to build since this was a contemporary mystery. Audrey's neighborhood and school are described, we also get the faint idea that this is in a city (probably somewhere in the U.S) but other than that there isn't much to imagine.
Characters: 3/5
My favorite was Matt obviously. I wish I could say that I hate Jackson but I just felt like his character was unrealistic.
October 2, 2024
If there was more than five stars, I would give this book a hundred over ten. Whattt??? For all the times my heart stopped beating just because I was on the edge of my bed, eager to know what happens next and the anticipation was excruciating. I am so in love with this masterpiece by Renée Shantel and thank you for resurrecting me out of my prolonged reading slump.
Now back to business. In the Days Before is a molded work of art from the mind of a goddess (Renée Shantel is brilliant, OMG) that portrays crime, social media popularity, helping victims, friends and the dangers of social media. Audrey covers stories for victims of disappearance and sometimes, it helps bring the victim back, however when her best friend disappears after an argument between them, Audrey is turned to a public enemy by her other friends. Friends who were supposed to be together in trying times to support each other, friends who used the situation of their friend to try to gain popularity on social media. Bad friends! Well, in essence, watch who you call your homie!
Many people don't know this, but when one is surrounded by crowds who claim to be your friends, it never ends well. And let's talk about the dangers of social media which was portrayed widely in this book, how social media is the major cause of social vices today and many more.
In the Days Before is a must read for everyone whether you are a lover of crime or not. And I have learned a lot from this book. Thank you Renée once again for the opportunity.
Now back to business. In the Days Before is a molded work of art from the mind of a goddess (Renée Shantel is brilliant, OMG) that portrays crime, social media popularity, helping victims, friends and the dangers of social media. Audrey covers stories for victims of disappearance and sometimes, it helps bring the victim back, however when her best friend disappears after an argument between them, Audrey is turned to a public enemy by her other friends. Friends who were supposed to be together in trying times to support each other, friends who used the situation of their friend to try to gain popularity on social media. Bad friends! Well, in essence, watch who you call your homie!
Many people don't know this, but when one is surrounded by crowds who claim to be your friends, it never ends well. And let's talk about the dangers of social media which was portrayed widely in this book, how social media is the major cause of social vices today and many more.
In the Days Before is a must read for everyone whether you are a lover of crime or not. And I have learned a lot from this book. Thank you Renée once again for the opportunity.
August 29, 2024
4.5stars
I received an arc review for my honest opinion.
‘In the Days Before’ is a YA Crime thriller based on a girl named Audrey. She is a rising crime case YouTuber, that finds herself in a nightmare when her best friend suddenly goes missing. What makes the plot even more chilling is how quickly suspicion turns towards Audrey, with her friends and followers alike questioning her innocence, when her best friend goes missing.
The tension is palpable as the story unfolds, leaving you in constant angst for Audrey. The narrative skilfully portrays the emotional turmoil she endures, not just from the fear of losing her friends, but from the betrayal of those she thought she could trust. The book also serves as a stark reminder of the dangers the internet poses to teenagers. The way the online community can shift from support to hostility in an instant is terrifying, highlighting how easily misinformation can spread and ruin lives.
This was a quick easy read and I was left on the edge of my seat wondering which character did it!
I received an arc review for my honest opinion.
‘In the Days Before’ is a YA Crime thriller based on a girl named Audrey. She is a rising crime case YouTuber, that finds herself in a nightmare when her best friend suddenly goes missing. What makes the plot even more chilling is how quickly suspicion turns towards Audrey, with her friends and followers alike questioning her innocence, when her best friend goes missing.
The tension is palpable as the story unfolds, leaving you in constant angst for Audrey. The narrative skilfully portrays the emotional turmoil she endures, not just from the fear of losing her friends, but from the betrayal of those she thought she could trust. The book also serves as a stark reminder of the dangers the internet poses to teenagers. The way the online community can shift from support to hostility in an instant is terrifying, highlighting how easily misinformation can spread and ruin lives.
This was a quick easy read and I was left on the edge of my seat wondering which character did it!
July 8, 2024
Wow! Quickest I've read a book in a little while, blitzed through this book in a couple of sittings as I had to know what was happening next. A YA crime thriller set in Australia, a whodunnit in a modern technological age with twists I didn't see coming.
In the days before follows the story of young Audrey, aspiring YouTuber, looking to help find missing people through her show "In the days before". When her best friend goes missing she is thrust in the middle of the investigation and chaos of high schooler reactions to the event.
I enjoyed this book. Nothing super heavy or emotional to deal with but I was hooked into finding out how it all unfolds. We are introduced to a range of different types of entertaining characters who have their own journey and growth (for better or worse). A modern spin on a classic whodunnit story. I don't want to say too much as I don't want to give anything away! It is definitely worth the read.
In the days before follows the story of young Audrey, aspiring YouTuber, looking to help find missing people through her show "In the days before". When her best friend goes missing she is thrust in the middle of the investigation and chaos of high schooler reactions to the event.
I enjoyed this book. Nothing super heavy or emotional to deal with but I was hooked into finding out how it all unfolds. We are introduced to a range of different types of entertaining characters who have their own journey and growth (for better or worse). A modern spin on a classic whodunnit story. I don't want to say too much as I don't want to give anything away! It is definitely worth the read.
July 20, 2024
ARC READER! 📚
This book gave me all the feels I got when reading AGGGTM and I have to say I enjoyed it just as much!!!
I felt bad for Audrey throughout, high school is hard… but to be blamed for your best friends disappearance all because she wanted to help find the missing was so disheartening.
This book had me thinking about every character so carefully, trying to figure out who did it… but then the twist gets thrown at you and I nearly dropped my kindle! I was not expecting who it was at all…
I really loved this book, and I highly recommend it to anyone who loves an easy to read mystery/thriller… and bonus, it’s based in AUS!
This book gave me all the feels I got when reading AGGGTM and I have to say I enjoyed it just as much!!!
I felt bad for Audrey throughout, high school is hard… but to be blamed for your best friends disappearance all because she wanted to help find the missing was so disheartening.
This book had me thinking about every character so carefully, trying to figure out who did it… but then the twist gets thrown at you and I nearly dropped my kindle! I was not expecting who it was at all…
I really loved this book, and I highly recommend it to anyone who loves an easy to read mystery/thriller… and bonus, it’s based in AUS!
October 24, 2024
This was a really interesting story and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The pacing was a bit slow at times, but the mystery element and the determination of the main character really made the story a compelling read. If you enjoy true crime/murder mystery vibes combined with the highs and lows of being a vlogger I would highly recommend this read. Thank you to Renée Shantel for the ARC of this story.
October 21, 2024
ARC Review!
I was honoured to read this novel before its release. Overall, this is a good young adult novel: The drama and suspense of this murder mystery kept me hooked the entire way through. Additionally, it provided a good exploration of friendship and trust.
I’m eager to see what Renee can produce next!
I was honoured to read this novel before its release. Overall, this is a good young adult novel: The drama and suspense of this murder mystery kept me hooked the entire way through. Additionally, it provided a good exploration of friendship and trust.
I’m eager to see what Renee can produce next!
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