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Letting Go of September: A Thriller
A year after his wife leaves him, Garrett Emerson is still struggling with the loss. Tired of the loneliness and the constant feeling something just isn’t right, he finally decides to put it all behind him. Will reacquainting with an old friend be the push he needs to move on?
After moving with her husband into yet another new house, Elizabeth Parsons finally feels at home. But is she ready to start a family? How can she even be a good mother when hers abandoned her?
Garrett and Elizabeth’s lives couldn’t be more different, but a series of events bring them together. As shocking secrets are revealed, they both learn more about each other - and that they are stronger than they think.
After moving with her husband into yet another new house, Elizabeth Parsons finally feels at home. But is she ready to start a family? How can she even be a good mother when hers abandoned her?
Garrett and Elizabeth’s lives couldn’t be more different, but a series of events bring them together. As shocking secrets are revealed, they both learn more about each other - and that they are stronger than they think.
436 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 31, 2024
5 people are currently reading
29 people want to read
About the author
Sandra J. Jackson
10 books138 followersSandra J. Jackson was born in Montreal, Quebec but now lives in a rural setting in Eastern Ontario with her husband.
A graduate of a 3-year Graphic Design program, being creative has always been Sandra’s passion. Over the years she has enjoyed creating works of art for her family and friends. Her children, however, brought out the storyteller inside when Sandra told them bedtime stories. Her wild imagination lent itself to new and exciting ideas.
An avid reader of many genres, Sandra’s writing does not fall into any specific category. However, her goal is to create stories that pull readers into the book and make them feel as though they are a part of the story.
Sandra has five published works (four of which are also available as audiobooks) with Next Chapter Publishing.
Sandra is currently working on her sixth novel.
A graduate of a 3-year Graphic Design program, being creative has always been Sandra’s passion. Over the years she has enjoyed creating works of art for her family and friends. Her children, however, brought out the storyteller inside when Sandra told them bedtime stories. Her wild imagination lent itself to new and exciting ideas.
An avid reader of many genres, Sandra’s writing does not fall into any specific category. However, her goal is to create stories that pull readers into the book and make them feel as though they are a part of the story.
Sandra has five published works (four of which are also available as audiobooks) with Next Chapter Publishing.
Sandra is currently working on her sixth novel.
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
December 7, 2024
“Letting Go of September” by Sandra J. Jackson is an immersive psychological thriller that gripped me from the first chapter and refused to let go until the final, shocking revelation. Told in the third-person POV, the novel masterfully weaves together multiple character narratives, creating a complex mosaic of interconnected stories around a merciless killer targeting red-haired victims.
Jackson’s remarkable detailing allows a vivid experience of the characters’ environments and emotions. The author carefully shapes each character’s path, creating tension and suspense, holding the reader’s attention in the gripping capture and escape scene—a heart-pounding sequence through the woods that left me breathless, wondering about the protagonist’s fate and the potential dangers awaiting.
The novel is unputdownable. Its strength lies in its intricate plot development and cleverly interwoven individual storylines, leading to a surprising and unexpected conclusion. Jackson explores themes of tragedy, survival, and the possibility of finding new beginnings in the face of unimaginable challenges.
“Letting Go of September,” a gripping psychological thriller, blends menace, murder, and human resilience that will appeal to genre fans who enjoy intricate narratives and pulse-racing suspense.
Highly recommended for those seeking an intense, multilayered reading experience.
Jackson’s remarkable detailing allows a vivid experience of the characters’ environments and emotions. The author carefully shapes each character’s path, creating tension and suspense, holding the reader’s attention in the gripping capture and escape scene—a heart-pounding sequence through the woods that left me breathless, wondering about the protagonist’s fate and the potential dangers awaiting.
The novel is unputdownable. Its strength lies in its intricate plot development and cleverly interwoven individual storylines, leading to a surprising and unexpected conclusion. Jackson explores themes of tragedy, survival, and the possibility of finding new beginnings in the face of unimaginable challenges.
“Letting Go of September,” a gripping psychological thriller, blends menace, murder, and human resilience that will appeal to genre fans who enjoy intricate narratives and pulse-racing suspense.
Highly recommended for those seeking an intense, multilayered reading experience.
November 13, 2024
I really enjoyed this book. Nice plot, good mystery, interesting characters.
This was a nice read. Kept me interested and guessing. A few things easily stood out and a few others were interesting surprises.
The connections between the murders was a neat detail that kept me very curious to see how many more would be found.
Thank you NetGalley for the copy.
This was a nice read. Kept me interested and guessing. A few things easily stood out and a few others were interesting surprises.
The connections between the murders was a neat detail that kept me very curious to see how many more would be found.
Thank you NetGalley for the copy.
January 5, 2025
Letting Go Of September by Sandra J. Jackson
I thoroughly enjoyed this thriller by Sandra J Jackson. Garret's much loved wife disappears under mysterious circumstances. Thereafter, Garratt's and Elizabeth's lives are intertwined in an unexpected way. It's gripping in parts, wince worthy, but also manages to weave heartfelt human elements of family and courage into the narrative beautifully.
It's well plotted. The engaging storyline and mysteries of this puzzling tale concludes with a great ending.
Highly recommended for thriller, murder mystery readers who like a compassionate but exciting story.
I thoroughly enjoyed this thriller by Sandra J Jackson. Garret's much loved wife disappears under mysterious circumstances. Thereafter, Garratt's and Elizabeth's lives are intertwined in an unexpected way. It's gripping in parts, wince worthy, but also manages to weave heartfelt human elements of family and courage into the narrative beautifully.
It's well plotted. The engaging storyline and mysteries of this puzzling tale concludes with a great ending.
Highly recommended for thriller, murder mystery readers who like a compassionate but exciting story.
December 31, 2024
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.
"Letting Go of September: A Thriller" by Sandra J. Jackson is an exhilarating ride from start to finish, weaving suspense, intrigue, and emotional depth into a masterfully crafted narrative. Jackson's storytelling is nothing short of compelling, drawing readers into a labyrinth of secrets and betrayals.
This plot centers around a protagonist who finds herself entangled in a mystery that begins with the disappearance of her sister, September. As she delves deeper into the search, she uncovers a series of shocking truths that challenge everything she thought she knew about her family and herself. Jackson expertly balances the elements of thriller and psychological drama, ensuring that readers are constantly on edge, eager to turn the next page.
One of the most striking aspects of this novel is Jackson's ability to create complex, multi-dimensional characters. The protagonist is particularly well-developed, showcasing a blend of vulnerability and strength that makes her journey both relatable and inspiring. Her determination to uncover the truth, despite the obstacles and dangers she faces, serves as the driving force of the story.
The supporting characters are equally well-crafted, each contributing to the rich tapestry of the narrative. Jackson excels in creating individuals with distinct personalities and backgrounds, making the interactions between characters authentic and engaging. The relationships in the book are nuanced, adding layers of emotional depth to the suspenseful plot.
Jackson's writing style is another highlight of the novel. Her prose is crisp and evocative, painting vivid pictures in the reader's mind. The settings, from small-town America to chillingly isolated locations, are described with a keen eye for detail, enhancing the overall atmosphere of the story. The pacing is perfectly balanced, with moments of intense action interspersed with quieter, introspective scenes that allow for character development and reflection.
The themes explored in "Letting Go of September" are universal and deeply personal, touching on issues such as family bonds, trust, and the quest for identity. Jackson's treatment of these themes is thoughtful and poignant, adding depth to the thriller elements of the story. The novel also delves into the psychological impact of trauma and loss, providing a nuanced exploration of the protagonist's inner struggles.
"Letting Go of September: A Thriller" is a must-read for fans of suspense and psychological drama. Sandra J. Jackson has crafted a gripping and emotionally resonant story that will keep readers hooked until the very last page. This book is a testament to Jackson's talent as a storyteller, offering a thrilling and thought-provoking reading experience.
"Letting Go of September: A Thriller" by Sandra J. Jackson is an exhilarating ride from start to finish, weaving suspense, intrigue, and emotional depth into a masterfully crafted narrative. Jackson's storytelling is nothing short of compelling, drawing readers into a labyrinth of secrets and betrayals.
This plot centers around a protagonist who finds herself entangled in a mystery that begins with the disappearance of her sister, September. As she delves deeper into the search, she uncovers a series of shocking truths that challenge everything she thought she knew about her family and herself. Jackson expertly balances the elements of thriller and psychological drama, ensuring that readers are constantly on edge, eager to turn the next page.
One of the most striking aspects of this novel is Jackson's ability to create complex, multi-dimensional characters. The protagonist is particularly well-developed, showcasing a blend of vulnerability and strength that makes her journey both relatable and inspiring. Her determination to uncover the truth, despite the obstacles and dangers she faces, serves as the driving force of the story.
The supporting characters are equally well-crafted, each contributing to the rich tapestry of the narrative. Jackson excels in creating individuals with distinct personalities and backgrounds, making the interactions between characters authentic and engaging. The relationships in the book are nuanced, adding layers of emotional depth to the suspenseful plot.
Jackson's writing style is another highlight of the novel. Her prose is crisp and evocative, painting vivid pictures in the reader's mind. The settings, from small-town America to chillingly isolated locations, are described with a keen eye for detail, enhancing the overall atmosphere of the story. The pacing is perfectly balanced, with moments of intense action interspersed with quieter, introspective scenes that allow for character development and reflection.
The themes explored in "Letting Go of September" are universal and deeply personal, touching on issues such as family bonds, trust, and the quest for identity. Jackson's treatment of these themes is thoughtful and poignant, adding depth to the thriller elements of the story. The novel also delves into the psychological impact of trauma and loss, providing a nuanced exploration of the protagonist's inner struggles.
"Letting Go of September: A Thriller" is a must-read for fans of suspense and psychological drama. Sandra J. Jackson has crafted a gripping and emotionally resonant story that will keep readers hooked until the very last page. This book is a testament to Jackson's talent as a storyteller, offering a thrilling and thought-provoking reading experience.
December 5, 2024
Exceptional – took me completely by surprise.
It’s a while since I read a Jackson book but after a couple of pages, where I thought I was in for a schmaltzy romance novel, I was rocked back on my heels and equilibrium did not return until… well, I am still reeling. Yep, I remember her now.
Where to start?
Garrett Emerson’s wife leaves him, just a brief note; their lengthy, love filled marriage seems over and Garrett is devastated. The police are unmoved as her car was found at the airport. So, she has upped and left him, happens all the time, yes? No, Garrett says, but after a year he feels he must move on, she really did leave him.
Elizabeth Parsons and her husband move into a new house; in love, yes, but there are nerves on the part of Elizabeth, her mother abandoned her and she wonders if she will make a good mother, when the time comes, and then, there is a shady man in a red baseball cap staring at her. And he reappears, again. And again to abduct Elizabeth at the same time that the police discover the body of a woman, long dead. There are clues, and now another missing woman.
What follows is a nerve-wracking storyline that jumps from Elizabeth and her ordeal. Garrett as the police suspect him of his wife’s disappearance and other murders? No plot spoilers because this really is a frenetic and emotional ride, so well-crafted and written. I almost read this in one sitting, it was un-put-down-able; emotions of sick with worry, hope destroyed and found, love, family and most of all electrifying frustration that drives the reader on.
This is truly an exceptional read and I highly recommend it – 5 stars.
It’s a while since I read a Jackson book but after a couple of pages, where I thought I was in for a schmaltzy romance novel, I was rocked back on my heels and equilibrium did not return until… well, I am still reeling. Yep, I remember her now.
Where to start?
Garrett Emerson’s wife leaves him, just a brief note; their lengthy, love filled marriage seems over and Garrett is devastated. The police are unmoved as her car was found at the airport. So, she has upped and left him, happens all the time, yes? No, Garrett says, but after a year he feels he must move on, she really did leave him.
Elizabeth Parsons and her husband move into a new house; in love, yes, but there are nerves on the part of Elizabeth, her mother abandoned her and she wonders if she will make a good mother, when the time comes, and then, there is a shady man in a red baseball cap staring at her. And he reappears, again. And again to abduct Elizabeth at the same time that the police discover the body of a woman, long dead. There are clues, and now another missing woman.
What follows is a nerve-wracking storyline that jumps from Elizabeth and her ordeal. Garrett as the police suspect him of his wife’s disappearance and other murders? No plot spoilers because this really is a frenetic and emotional ride, so well-crafted and written. I almost read this in one sitting, it was un-put-down-able; emotions of sick with worry, hope destroyed and found, love, family and most of all electrifying frustration that drives the reader on.
This is truly an exceptional read and I highly recommend it – 5 stars.
December 19, 2024
I picked this book because of the unusual title, Letting Go of September.
In the story, Garrett Emerson has lost his wife, Ember, who disappeared one day after leaving a note of farewell, which he finds both puzzling and uncharacteristic of her. He lives alone now in his big house with his dog Sam, at the edge of his acres of forest land. flipping houses for a living.
Life goes on until there is tension when the remains of unidentified women begin to crop up around the area, making Garrett and the others uneasy.
A young couple, Elizabeth and Josh, move in nearby.The lives of the couple and Garrett intersect, their history seemingly connected through a past romantic fling of Garrett's and the unknown mother of Elizabeth who had disappeared from her life when she was only 11-years-old.
The theme of disappearing women flows through the book, as the lives of those people who knew or who miss the women are affected. This was a well planned thriller that leads the reader to read on, even though connections become clear before the book's ending. I like the suspense, the main characters, and the surroundings.
The writing is clear, descriptive, and effective. The poetic view of the natural surroundings in autumn and winter are excellent, especially as nature plays such an important part in the drama of the story.
Thank to NetGalley and the publisher for the chance to read the advance version of this story.
In the story, Garrett Emerson has lost his wife, Ember, who disappeared one day after leaving a note of farewell, which he finds both puzzling and uncharacteristic of her. He lives alone now in his big house with his dog Sam, at the edge of his acres of forest land. flipping houses for a living.
Life goes on until there is tension when the remains of unidentified women begin to crop up around the area, making Garrett and the others uneasy.
A young couple, Elizabeth and Josh, move in nearby.The lives of the couple and Garrett intersect, their history seemingly connected through a past romantic fling of Garrett's and the unknown mother of Elizabeth who had disappeared from her life when she was only 11-years-old.
The theme of disappearing women flows through the book, as the lives of those people who knew or who miss the women are affected. This was a well planned thriller that leads the reader to read on, even though connections become clear before the book's ending. I like the suspense, the main characters, and the surroundings.
The writing is clear, descriptive, and effective. The poetic view of the natural surroundings in autumn and winter are excellent, especially as nature plays such an important part in the drama of the story.
Thank to NetGalley and the publisher for the chance to read the advance version of this story.
February 8, 2025
Letting Go Of September by Sandra J. Jackson
At the beginning of the book, we discover Garrett Emerson. His life is in limbo because his wife disappeared a year before. At first, the police suspected him, but the clues led them to believe she had left voluntarily. Garrett, however, thinks otherwise. He believes she was abducted.
Then, there’s Elizabeth Parsons. She had a rough childhood. Her mother abandoned her, and she constantly doubts herself and her abilities. When she hires some workmen for her new home, she feels uncomfortable by one of them, who gives off weird vibes. When he continues to turn up in the most unexpected of venues, her fear levels rise, as does her increasing repulsion.
When she is finally snatched, the reader discovers similarities between Garrett’s missing wife, a recently found corpse, and Elizabeth’s abduction. The convoluted plot keeps you guessing, and it was extremely well thought out.
What followed is a nail-biting read that made me frantically turn the pages, waiting for a favourable end.
The book is well plotted, and the characters are multi layered and truly believable. The deep emotions of Garrett’s loss and Elizabeth’s hidden strength and will to survive impregnate every page, drawing the reader towards them both and making this an emotional ride. The ending was a tearjerker, but a satisfying end to this well-constructed tale.
I thoroughly enjoyed it and would highly recommend it to everyone.
At the beginning of the book, we discover Garrett Emerson. His life is in limbo because his wife disappeared a year before. At first, the police suspected him, but the clues led them to believe she had left voluntarily. Garrett, however, thinks otherwise. He believes she was abducted.
Then, there’s Elizabeth Parsons. She had a rough childhood. Her mother abandoned her, and she constantly doubts herself and her abilities. When she hires some workmen for her new home, she feels uncomfortable by one of them, who gives off weird vibes. When he continues to turn up in the most unexpected of venues, her fear levels rise, as does her increasing repulsion.
When she is finally snatched, the reader discovers similarities between Garrett’s missing wife, a recently found corpse, and Elizabeth’s abduction. The convoluted plot keeps you guessing, and it was extremely well thought out.
What followed is a nail-biting read that made me frantically turn the pages, waiting for a favourable end.
The book is well plotted, and the characters are multi layered and truly believable. The deep emotions of Garrett’s loss and Elizabeth’s hidden strength and will to survive impregnate every page, drawing the reader towards them both and making this an emotional ride. The ending was a tearjerker, but a satisfying end to this well-constructed tale.
I thoroughly enjoyed it and would highly recommend it to everyone.
October 8, 2025
Letting Go of September by Sandra J. Jackson delivers a haunting blend of psychological suspense and emotional depth. Beneath the surface of its small town mystery lies an intimate study of loss, memory, and human resilience.
Garrett Emerson’s grief and Elizabeth Parsons’s inherited fears form a dual narrative that explores the fragile boundary between past and present. Both characters are searching for belonging one haunted by what’s gone, the other by what might return. As their paths intersect, Jackson draws the reader into a slow unraveling of secrets that feels both shocking and inevitable.
What makes this thriller stand out is its empathy. Rather than relying solely on twists, Jackson builds tension through the quiet ache of her characters’ emotional wounds. Every revelation hits harder because it’s rooted in heartbreak, not spectacle. The result is a story that lingers a suspense novel that dares to ask whether letting go of pain is ever truly possible.
Letting Go of September is for readers who crave thrillers with heart: stories where human frailty and hidden truths collide in the most unexpected ways.
Garrett Emerson’s grief and Elizabeth Parsons’s inherited fears form a dual narrative that explores the fragile boundary between past and present. Both characters are searching for belonging one haunted by what’s gone, the other by what might return. As their paths intersect, Jackson draws the reader into a slow unraveling of secrets that feels both shocking and inevitable.
What makes this thriller stand out is its empathy. Rather than relying solely on twists, Jackson builds tension through the quiet ache of her characters’ emotional wounds. Every revelation hits harder because it’s rooted in heartbreak, not spectacle. The result is a story that lingers a suspense novel that dares to ask whether letting go of pain is ever truly possible.
Letting Go of September is for readers who crave thrillers with heart: stories where human frailty and hidden truths collide in the most unexpected ways.
November 21, 2024
You know it's a good read when you close a book with tears in your eyes, and the last few lines linger for days on end while you grieve the characters you have come to know.
Sandra J. Jackson's writing style is so visually descriptive that I felt like I was there. All of my senses were fully engaged, and I experienced every joy, sadness, fear, and anger right alongside each of its characters.
Letting Go of September is brilliant! And the twist on the title, I might add, is very clever. Love, love, loved this book! Kudos to the author. More please!
Sandra J. Jackson's writing style is so visually descriptive that I felt like I was there. All of my senses were fully engaged, and I experienced every joy, sadness, fear, and anger right alongside each of its characters.
Letting Go of September is brilliant! And the twist on the title, I might add, is very clever. Love, love, loved this book! Kudos to the author. More please!
November 16, 2025
Letting Go of September is a powerful, twist-filled read that blends suspense with raw, human emotion. Garrett and Elizabeth’s separate struggles pull you in immediately, and when their paths collide, the unfolding secrets keep you turning pages late into the night. Jackson masterfully balances tension, heart, and character depth, creating a thriller that’s as moving as it is gripping. A compelling story of resilience, truth, and the unexpected connections that change everything.
March 21, 2025
Lots of deepness to the plot and interesting character development . Think I’ll lock the back door when I go to bed tonight….
September 10, 2025
I really didn't think I was going to like this book at first but it took a twist and then I was hooked!
August 19, 2024
Reviewed by Alma Boucher for Readers’ Favorite
In Sandra J. Jackson's thriller Letting Go of September, Garrett's wife was scheduled to join him for lunch, but Ember never showed up. At home, Garrett found a note that Ember had left and apologized for hurting him. After a year, Garrett was still having difficulties and felt it was time to move on from the past. Elizabeth had been abandoned by her mother when she was eleven and so was afraid to start a family. Elizabeth and her husband had been moving for the last four years, and this was the first time a house felt like home. While working on a book, Elizabeth experienced an unsettling sensation every time she entered that someone had been in her den. Unexpected circumstances brought Garrett and Elizabeth together, and they both wanted to learn more about one another.
Letting Go of September by Sandra J. Jackson was a dramatic roller coaster of sadness, hurt, abandonment, betrayal, and hope. This story never had a dull moment and was fast-paced and action-packed. This book kept me on the edge of my seat, turning the pages as fast as I could. It was difficult to put down, and I was so afraid I would miss something. The characters were authentic and relatable and could have been anyone I know. It was sad that Garrett battled to accept that his wife had left him. The storyline was written and carried out with skill. I enjoyed reading this story, and it was far more than I had anticipated.
In Sandra J. Jackson's thriller Letting Go of September, Garrett's wife was scheduled to join him for lunch, but Ember never showed up. At home, Garrett found a note that Ember had left and apologized for hurting him. After a year, Garrett was still having difficulties and felt it was time to move on from the past. Elizabeth had been abandoned by her mother when she was eleven and so was afraid to start a family. Elizabeth and her husband had been moving for the last four years, and this was the first time a house felt like home. While working on a book, Elizabeth experienced an unsettling sensation every time she entered that someone had been in her den. Unexpected circumstances brought Garrett and Elizabeth together, and they both wanted to learn more about one another.
Letting Go of September by Sandra J. Jackson was a dramatic roller coaster of sadness, hurt, abandonment, betrayal, and hope. This story never had a dull moment and was fast-paced and action-packed. This book kept me on the edge of my seat, turning the pages as fast as I could. It was difficult to put down, and I was so afraid I would miss something. The characters were authentic and relatable and could have been anyone I know. It was sad that Garrett battled to accept that his wife had left him. The storyline was written and carried out with skill. I enjoyed reading this story, and it was far more than I had anticipated.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews