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One of Us Is Missing
There's no such thing as safety in numbers ...Rachel and Rory Sullivan decide to celebrate making it through a difficult year by taking their teenagers, Emmet and Bridie, to their first ever stadium concert. By the end of the night, one of the four has vanished without a trace.As the police investigation intensifies, suspicion is cast on the remaining family members. Everyone has been deceiving one another, but who is to blame for what went wrong? The passing of each hour amplifies their terror that life will never be the same again.One of Us is Missing is a dark domestic thriller about the dangers lurking right in plain sight.
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About the author
B.M. Carroll
5 books120 followersLibrarian Note: B.M. Carroll also writes under the name Ber Carroll.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
September 1, 2024
This was a fantastic thriller, I sped through it in no time. I think the vicinity being so local, and the familiarity with the themes, parenting, social media, children asserting their newfound freedoms, friendship, family finances. All this was relatable.
A married couple having difficulties, a wife facing cancer treatment and fighting to get back to work while holding her family together, Rachel is a strong, if not flawed woman. Her husband Rory is a great father, a hard worker who has just recently gone through bankruptcy after a failed business.
Rory loves his wife fiercely and is dealing with a current relationship problem authentically, I believe the way he dealt with his wife, and the children’s knowledge of this well. The author has approached this issue sensitivity.
Rachel and Rory's children are at an age where self confidence and self esteem are at a pivotal moment in time, these issues are interwoven into the narrative to build something solid, and as the story builds momentum we watch the characters grow, their family commitment growing in strength.
What I found in this well written novel was a relatable family committed to each other in finding their missing loved one, as we follow a good mystery with believable red herrings, told via well drawn characters, each of them providing an important part of the puzzle.
The setting was very close to home, the grounds of the SCG, even my son’s school was mentioned a few times, with these descriptions being apt and spot on. The location of the crime being a Coldplay concert really made me feel this was a contemporary and realistic setting.
The first book I’ve read by this author, I have some on my shelves and I will read more. Highly recommended.
I listened via the Libby platform and my public library. My book of the month.
A married couple having difficulties, a wife facing cancer treatment and fighting to get back to work while holding her family together, Rachel is a strong, if not flawed woman. Her husband Rory is a great father, a hard worker who has just recently gone through bankruptcy after a failed business.
Rory loves his wife fiercely and is dealing with a current relationship problem authentically, I believe the way he dealt with his wife, and the children’s knowledge of this well. The author has approached this issue sensitivity.
Rachel and Rory's children are at an age where self confidence and self esteem are at a pivotal moment in time, these issues are interwoven into the narrative to build something solid, and as the story builds momentum we watch the characters grow, their family commitment growing in strength.
What I found in this well written novel was a relatable family committed to each other in finding their missing loved one, as we follow a good mystery with believable red herrings, told via well drawn characters, each of them providing an important part of the puzzle.
The setting was very close to home, the grounds of the SCG, even my son’s school was mentioned a few times, with these descriptions being apt and spot on. The location of the crime being a Coldplay concert really made me feel this was a contemporary and realistic setting.
The first book I’ve read by this author, I have some on my shelves and I will read more. Highly recommended.
I listened via the Libby platform and my public library. My book of the month.
May 12, 2024
How is this the first book by BM Carroll that I have read? Seriously need to rectify that. This book was insane, in a good way. Set in my hometown of Sydney really made this book so real to me. I could picture the scenes, the concert, the trains, everything. I had no how it was going to end and was really surprised by how it all unfolded.
It has been a tough yeah for all the members of the Sullivan family. Parents , Rachel and Rory decide a night out seeing one of their favourite bands, Coldplay is in order and they book tickets. Only they have to be split up, kids on the grassed general admin area while the parents are in the stands. They arrange a meeting spot after the show but one of them doesn’t turn up.
This is my worst nightmare as a parent. We go to the SCG at Moore Park quite a lot for Sydney Swans games so we know the area well. I always worry that one of us will get lost in the huge crowds. It is scary and that came through in the writing.
A story of a family with plenty of secrets and lies amongst them. Absolutely terrifying and well worth a read.
Thanks so much to Affirm Press for my copy of this book to read.
It has been a tough yeah for all the members of the Sullivan family. Parents , Rachel and Rory decide a night out seeing one of their favourite bands, Coldplay is in order and they book tickets. Only they have to be split up, kids on the grassed general admin area while the parents are in the stands. They arrange a meeting spot after the show but one of them doesn’t turn up.
This is my worst nightmare as a parent. We go to the SCG at Moore Park quite a lot for Sydney Swans games so we know the area well. I always worry that one of us will get lost in the huge crowds. It is scary and that came through in the writing.
A story of a family with plenty of secrets and lies amongst them. Absolutely terrifying and well worth a read.
Thanks so much to Affirm Press for my copy of this book to read.
April 29, 2024
⭐️5 Stars⭐️
Ohhh I loved this one so, so much, it brought back memories of some of the bigger concerts I’ve been to interstate. This story felt very believable and cleverly plotted, it’s one of those books you cannot put down and feel like you’re there.
One of Us is Missing is a thriller that you will have you on the edge of your seat, B.M. Carroll certainly knows how to pull it all together when it comes to crafting a suspenseful thriller! Loved the plot and the concert theme and the characters were so well crafted and relatable with each of their own problematic issues they were going through.
The story launches pretty quickly, Rachel and Rory Sullivan take their teenagers Emmet and Bridie to see Coldplay perform in celebration of getting through a difficult year but before the end of the night one of the four go missing without a trace.
This is a domestic thriller with secrets and mistakes that impacts everyone in the family. I highly recommend you pick this one up, if you like things tense this is a top pick!
Publication Date 30 April 2024
Publisher Affirm Press
Thanks so much Affirm Press for sending me an early ARC to read.
Ohhh I loved this one so, so much, it brought back memories of some of the bigger concerts I’ve been to interstate. This story felt very believable and cleverly plotted, it’s one of those books you cannot put down and feel like you’re there.
One of Us is Missing is a thriller that you will have you on the edge of your seat, B.M. Carroll certainly knows how to pull it all together when it comes to crafting a suspenseful thriller! Loved the plot and the concert theme and the characters were so well crafted and relatable with each of their own problematic issues they were going through.
The story launches pretty quickly, Rachel and Rory Sullivan take their teenagers Emmet and Bridie to see Coldplay perform in celebration of getting through a difficult year but before the end of the night one of the four go missing without a trace.
This is a domestic thriller with secrets and mistakes that impacts everyone in the family. I highly recommend you pick this one up, if you like things tense this is a top pick!
Publication Date 30 April 2024
Publisher Affirm Press
Thanks so much Affirm Press for sending me an early ARC to read.
September 6, 2024
ONE OF US is an outlier......
And that outlier is me.
ONE OF US IS MISSING was a "thriller" written for 6th graders.
PROBLEM: I am not a 6th grader!
Character development was shallow, the plot was implausible, and repetitious text was plentiful.
I listened to the audiobook read by Jo Van Es.
Jo Van Es did a superb job with the narration but since the book unfolded from multiple POVs, a full-cast audiobook would have been preferred.
1.5 stars, rounded up.
April 29, 2024
Thank you Affirm Press for sending us a copy to read and review.
A family of four go to a music concert and before the night ends, one of them disappears.
This sets off a chain of events that will put you on the edge of your seat.
One Of Us Is Missing is the latest domestic thriller from renowned author B.M Carroll.
An intelligent, consuming and a concrete page turner.
Rory and Rachel Sullivan take their kids, Emmet and Bridie to their first big arena concert.
After a financially hard and personal year they think they all deserve some fun.
As the crowd go wild and near the end of the night, one of them vanishes.
Police arrive and suspicion is cast and before too long everyone is a suspect.
As the investigation continues, they all are hiding secrets and as it all slowly comes to a head, the truth comes out……
It’s simply a great read, a plot of genius and very true to the genre.
I devoured in two sittings, I just couldn’t wait to get back to it.
Totally suspenseful, absolutely gripping, incredibly addictive and thoroughly entertaining.
I had my theory’s throughout and as it slowly unraveled, I had to pick myself up from the floor, I guessed wrong.
A big applause to the author for the outcome.
Ber really pulls you into the story, intriguing your mind and not letting go.
A book that will hit the bestseller lists quickly.
A family of four go to a music concert and before the night ends, one of them disappears.
This sets off a chain of events that will put you on the edge of your seat.
One Of Us Is Missing is the latest domestic thriller from renowned author B.M Carroll.
An intelligent, consuming and a concrete page turner.
Rory and Rachel Sullivan take their kids, Emmet and Bridie to their first big arena concert.
After a financially hard and personal year they think they all deserve some fun.
As the crowd go wild and near the end of the night, one of them vanishes.
Police arrive and suspicion is cast and before too long everyone is a suspect.
As the investigation continues, they all are hiding secrets and as it all slowly comes to a head, the truth comes out……
It’s simply a great read, a plot of genius and very true to the genre.
I devoured in two sittings, I just couldn’t wait to get back to it.
Totally suspenseful, absolutely gripping, incredibly addictive and thoroughly entertaining.
I had my theory’s throughout and as it slowly unraveled, I had to pick myself up from the floor, I guessed wrong.
A big applause to the author for the outcome.
Ber really pulls you into the story, intriguing your mind and not letting go.
A book that will hit the bestseller lists quickly.
May 16, 2024
This was one incredibly addictive read which had me on edge for the entire book! Fast-paced and tense, I defy anyone to be able to put it down.
Rachel and Rory Sullivan have had a tough year and decide to reward themselves and their two children, Emmett and Bridie, with tickets to Coldplay’s Sydney concert. When they become separated and one of them doesn’t arrive at the meeting point, a police investigation ensues. Each of these four has their own secrets that they have kept hidden from the others, but which of these has led to the terror they are currently experiencing?
One Of Us Is Missing is told through the alternating viewpoints of all four family members and moves back and forth from before the concert, during and then the aftermath.
This book is domestic noir at its best with its dark and disturbing undertones and suspicions raised about everyone the family thought they knew. It’s a gripping look at online dangers and experimenting teenagers and asks how can we be vigilant enough to keep our family away from danger? The true face of these characters is soon revealed when this incredible stress and pressure is applied and it raises the question, how far would you go to find a missing loved one?
If you love a fast paced domestic read that will keep you up late, then you need to read this!
Rachel and Rory Sullivan have had a tough year and decide to reward themselves and their two children, Emmett and Bridie, with tickets to Coldplay’s Sydney concert. When they become separated and one of them doesn’t arrive at the meeting point, a police investigation ensues. Each of these four has their own secrets that they have kept hidden from the others, but which of these has led to the terror they are currently experiencing?
One Of Us Is Missing is told through the alternating viewpoints of all four family members and moves back and forth from before the concert, during and then the aftermath.
This book is domestic noir at its best with its dark and disturbing undertones and suspicions raised about everyone the family thought they knew. It’s a gripping look at online dangers and experimenting teenagers and asks how can we be vigilant enough to keep our family away from danger? The true face of these characters is soon revealed when this incredible stress and pressure is applied and it raises the question, how far would you go to find a missing loved one?
If you love a fast paced domestic read that will keep you up late, then you need to read this!
April 26, 2024
How lucky was I to have gotten to read an ARC of the latest BM Carroll!!!!!!! I LOVE her domestic thrillers!!! And I could not put this one down!! It was so clever!!!!! A person going missing at a Coldplay concert!?! How petrifying would that be!!! And how easily could it happen!!!!! I loved the dual timelines, I loved the characters..love love love that it was set in Cronulla (Gods county completely) my new favourite BM Carroll
April 28, 2024
Another incredibly good novel from one of my favourite authors.
This time we are witness to the trauma and accusations, the secrets and lies that rise to the surface when a family member goes missing. Rachel and Rory, and their kids Emmet and Bridie, go to a Coldplay concert at Allianz stadium, but only three of them walk out.
Told in alternating chapters from the POV of all four family members the story switches between the build up to the concert on the day, at the concert and the aftermath of realising one is missing, and incidents that occurred in the preceding months to each family member.
So many incidents come to light from the before chapters, and so many people can easily be viewed as suspects in the disappearance, that my head was swimming with scenarios and many different hows and whys.
The build up to the conclusion was so well played out. This is another book that highlights the dangers of the internet and the dark web and is very relevant in today's society with our reliance on all forms of social media.
This time we are witness to the trauma and accusations, the secrets and lies that rise to the surface when a family member goes missing. Rachel and Rory, and their kids Emmet and Bridie, go to a Coldplay concert at Allianz stadium, but only three of them walk out.
Told in alternating chapters from the POV of all four family members the story switches between the build up to the concert on the day, at the concert and the aftermath of realising one is missing, and incidents that occurred in the preceding months to each family member.
So many incidents come to light from the before chapters, and so many people can easily be viewed as suspects in the disappearance, that my head was swimming with scenarios and many different hows and whys.
The build up to the conclusion was so well played out. This is another book that highlights the dangers of the internet and the dark web and is very relevant in today's society with our reliance on all forms of social media.
May 10, 2024
**MINI REVIEW**
The Sullivan Family, Rachel, Rory and their two teenage children are off to enjoy a sold-out Coldplay concert in the city but what is meant to be a night to celebrate and blow off steam, turns into an absolute nightmare when one of them goes missing without a trace. Each have their own secrets and as the hours go by, each began to suspect all those close around them including each other.
As usual with this Ber’s books, this was such an addictive read with lots of twists and turns but still felt very realistic. It made me think about how well we really know those around us and ask the question “What would I do?”.
The Sullivan Family, Rachel, Rory and their two teenage children are off to enjoy a sold-out Coldplay concert in the city but what is meant to be a night to celebrate and blow off steam, turns into an absolute nightmare when one of them goes missing without a trace. Each have their own secrets and as the hours go by, each began to suspect all those close around them including each other.
As usual with this Ber’s books, this was such an addictive read with lots of twists and turns but still felt very realistic. It made me think about how well we really know those around us and ask the question “What would I do?”.
May 31, 2024
This was a fantastic read right up until Briony was found and then it just went nowhere and added nothing to the story! Really disappointing.
The plot and the characters were really interesting and I enjoyed the different perspectives of the four family members. The perpetrators perspective was a little confusing though and didn’t add to the suspense of the story.
The flaws and insecurities of each of the family members was well fleshed out and the author portrayed the desperation and emotion perfectly of the family members despair of Briony being kidnapped. I really felt that was written well with genuine dialogue and feeling.
The ending was such a let down. The perpetrators didn’t ring true and the reasoning didn’t really fit, in my opinion. It all felt rushed, the court case was boring and we never even got a verdict.
This went from a possible 5⭐️ to 3⭐️ purely because of the lacklustre finish.
The plot and the characters were really interesting and I enjoyed the different perspectives of the four family members. The perpetrators perspective was a little confusing though and didn’t add to the suspense of the story.
The flaws and insecurities of each of the family members was well fleshed out and the author portrayed the desperation and emotion perfectly of the family members despair of Briony being kidnapped. I really felt that was written well with genuine dialogue and feeling.
The ending was such a let down. The perpetrators didn’t ring true and the reasoning didn’t really fit, in my opinion. It all felt rushed, the court case was boring and we never even got a verdict.
This went from a possible 5⭐️ to 3⭐️ purely because of the lacklustre finish.
May 29, 2024
Sydney family, the Sullivan's have had the year from hell. Dad's business has gone bankrupt, and Mum's had a shock cancer diagnosis. Then there's the relative taking advantage of their kindness. As for the kids, it's the usual teenage angst - friendships, school, and first crushes.
What this family needs is a night out to celebrate for getting through to the other side. Coldplay has always been a favourite in the Sullivan household, the dulcet tones of Chris Martin providing the track of their lives. Now, the English band is playing to a sold-out crowd, right there in the middle of their home city.
Even though tickets are expensive and the possibility of them all being together isn't likely, there's a plan in place for afterwards. Meet at the monument. Crowds are to be expected, same with the likelihood of getting separated, but it should be easy enough. Even for the youngest, often distracted by other things on her mind.
However, only three manage to reach the designated meeting point. Where's their missing family member and whatever happened to them? Is it a simple case of just becoming disorientated or something much more sinister? Whatever the reason, each Sullivan is feeling guilty. All of them could've or should've said or done something differently to prevent this tragedy.
As the police investigation ramps up, so does the intensity within. Relationships will be tested, same with loyalties. Ugly truths will be revealed and lies exposed. There's one thing guaranteed, no matter the outcome. The once tight-knit Sullivan family will never be the same again.
B.M. Carroll certainly knows how to write a thriller! One of Us is Missing is her best yet. What's not to love? ColdPlay (I found myself humming the familiar tunes). A gripping and suspenseful missing persons case. A broken family, on the verge of destruction. Plenty of red Herrings, including the suspects responsible ( it's an oh goodness, IT WAS THEM??!! moment). The only thing that I'm not too sure about is the open-ended conclusion. Did it fit the narrative and plotline? Maybe.
Some trigger warnings - abduction, adultry, drug abuse/misuse, references to child pornography and other sexual natures toward minors, under-age alcoholism.
4.75 🌟
What this family needs is a night out to celebrate for getting through to the other side. Coldplay has always been a favourite in the Sullivan household, the dulcet tones of Chris Martin providing the track of their lives. Now, the English band is playing to a sold-out crowd, right there in the middle of their home city.
Even though tickets are expensive and the possibility of them all being together isn't likely, there's a plan in place for afterwards. Meet at the monument. Crowds are to be expected, same with the likelihood of getting separated, but it should be easy enough. Even for the youngest, often distracted by other things on her mind.
However, only three manage to reach the designated meeting point. Where's their missing family member and whatever happened to them? Is it a simple case of just becoming disorientated or something much more sinister? Whatever the reason, each Sullivan is feeling guilty. All of them could've or should've said or done something differently to prevent this tragedy.
As the police investigation ramps up, so does the intensity within. Relationships will be tested, same with loyalties. Ugly truths will be revealed and lies exposed. There's one thing guaranteed, no matter the outcome. The once tight-knit Sullivan family will never be the same again.
B.M. Carroll certainly knows how to write a thriller! One of Us is Missing is her best yet. What's not to love? ColdPlay (I found myself humming the familiar tunes). A gripping and suspenseful missing persons case. A broken family, on the verge of destruction. Plenty of red Herrings, including the suspects responsible ( it's an oh goodness, IT WAS THEM??!! moment). The only thing that I'm not too sure about is the open-ended conclusion. Did it fit the narrative and plotline? Maybe.
Some trigger warnings - abduction, adultry, drug abuse/misuse, references to child pornography and other sexual natures toward minors, under-age alcoholism.
4.75 🌟
June 10, 2024
‘The plan was to leave home at four, reaching the city around five.’
Rachel and Rory Sullivan have had a difficult year. Between her cancer diagnosis and treatment and his bankruptcy, things have been tough for the family of four. Their children Emmet and Bridie are negotiating the shoals of teenage-hood, and Rory’s brother Sean complicates life further. The family decide to celebrate survival by attending a Coldplay concert at Sydney’s Allianz Stadium. Yes, the tickets are expensive and increasingly difficult to obtain. Rachel and Rory have platinum tickets and Emmet and Bridie have tickets in the field. Because they won’t all be together, there is a plan to meet after the concert.
Except … only three of them arrive. The fourth has vanished.
Each member of the family has secrets. And as is often the case when someone goes missing, the police initially focus on the remaining family members. The reader knows something of the secrets being kept and the resulting stress. Every member of the family feels guilty. The tension increases.
Well, this certainly kept me turning the pages to find out what had happened. I can only imagine the anguish experienced by the remaining members of the family. Yes, social media has a part to play as do adultery, alcohol, blackmail, friendship, guilt, the dark web, and trust.
I liked the way that Ms Carroll wove the various threads together, building a plausible story as it heads towards its conclusion. The different points of view increased possibilities while helping to maintain the tension. This is the first of Ms Carroll’s novels I have read: I’ll be adding others to my reading list.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
Rachel and Rory Sullivan have had a difficult year. Between her cancer diagnosis and treatment and his bankruptcy, things have been tough for the family of four. Their children Emmet and Bridie are negotiating the shoals of teenage-hood, and Rory’s brother Sean complicates life further. The family decide to celebrate survival by attending a Coldplay concert at Sydney’s Allianz Stadium. Yes, the tickets are expensive and increasingly difficult to obtain. Rachel and Rory have platinum tickets and Emmet and Bridie have tickets in the field. Because they won’t all be together, there is a plan to meet after the concert.
Except … only three of them arrive. The fourth has vanished.
Each member of the family has secrets. And as is often the case when someone goes missing, the police initially focus on the remaining family members. The reader knows something of the secrets being kept and the resulting stress. Every member of the family feels guilty. The tension increases.
Well, this certainly kept me turning the pages to find out what had happened. I can only imagine the anguish experienced by the remaining members of the family. Yes, social media has a part to play as do adultery, alcohol, blackmail, friendship, guilt, the dark web, and trust.
I liked the way that Ms Carroll wove the various threads together, building a plausible story as it heads towards its conclusion. The different points of view increased possibilities while helping to maintain the tension. This is the first of Ms Carroll’s novels I have read: I’ll be adding others to my reading list.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
March 3, 2025
We're going with 4 stars - it definitely kept me engaged the whole time and kept me guessing as to what had actually happened. It felt quite realistic in a lot of the plot and I liked the way B.M. Carroll fed little bits of information.
I don't know if I loved how the ending was presented to the reader, but I quite liked the resolution itself. It was an interesting end, and not one I would have arrived at myself so that was cool.
I don't know if I loved how the ending was presented to the reader, but I quite liked the resolution itself. It was an interesting end, and not one I would have arrived at myself so that was cool.
August 6, 2024
This could have been a 5 star read but I found the first few chapters very slow going, in fact I was thinking about not finishing it, but, boy! Am I glad I did. It turned into a cracker of a read. I stayed up way past my usual bedtime to finish the book. I just wish we had have had the outcome to the court case. This is the first book I have read by B. M. Carroll but it won’t be the last
December 15, 2024
Enjoyed this one. First half was a bit slow and didn’t really feel like a mystery more like a general fiction although written well. But in the second half I was a lot more invested and liked how everything tied together in the end. Wish the last chapter had a more solid conclusion but really enjoyed it overall
May 25, 2024
I struggle to review these kinda of books because for what it is it’s amazing, but compared to the books I’ve read it’s not? I like to consider that I did read this In a 36 hour window so it had to be good, but it was a bubblegum read and the ending was a bit strange. Not sure how to rate so I’ll stick to 3 stars
December 8, 2024
struggled to put this down. always appreciate a good domestic thriller. enjoyed the 4 perspective and all were three dimensionallly written characters which i feel sometimes is lost in domestic thrillers. can’t wait to read more of this author !
June 24, 2024
3.75⭐️ liked it, but wasn’t thrilled by it. Found myself thinking would it hurry up and get to the end.
August 25, 2024
I really enjoyed this book. Easy to read, good suspense, and loved that it was set locally in Cronulla
July 25, 2025
I really enjoyed this book, it was a great thriller, and really showed how much can be happening within a family that you don't know, it felt very realistic and something that could actually happen.
June 19, 2024
Suspenseful & gripping, this pacey story about a missing family member & a tangled web of family secrets & lies is one that thriller readers will love.
Completely unputdownable, this story will suck you in from the very moment the family enter the Coldplay concert & by the time one of them fails to meet at the designated meeting spot, you’ll be all in to figuring out where and why this person is missing.
I loved the Sydney setting & the alternating POVs that drove the mystery into interesting & unexpected places. The conclusion was possibly darker than I expected for a domestic thriller, but highlighted some very contemporary issues. A must read for thriller & mystery readers!
I received a review copy of this book from the publisher.
Completely unputdownable, this story will suck you in from the very moment the family enter the Coldplay concert & by the time one of them fails to meet at the designated meeting spot, you’ll be all in to figuring out where and why this person is missing.
I loved the Sydney setting & the alternating POVs that drove the mystery into interesting & unexpected places. The conclusion was possibly darker than I expected for a domestic thriller, but highlighted some very contemporary issues. A must read for thriller & mystery readers!
I received a review copy of this book from the publisher.
May 18, 2024
One family, a lot of secrets, a concert and everyone’s worst nightmare…….
I want to say so much about Ber’s latest book, but once again I don’t want to ruin it by giving away anything that will lessen it for other readers, so bear with me if I seem like I’m skirting around the edges with this review.
The tale is told from the point of view of the four family members, Rachel the mum, Rory the dad, and teenagers Emmet and Bridie, with both past and present timelines. This is very effective and gives a depth to the storyline, character personalities and the hidden dangers that surround the family without them even realising.
It all builds up to a Coldplay concert and on some level the whole family are looking forward to it, seeing it as a much-needed reward for a tough time that they have been having, and a little bit of a fresh start moment. What none of them are aware of, is that it may not be the fresh start they are looking for but it will be a moment that will change the rest of their lives.
Ber’s creative skill has you feeling like you are not only front and centre at the concert with the crushing crowds and the pumping music, but has you experiencing all the emotions both before and especially after one of the family goes missing. Their determination to make their family whole again despite the events that are trying to tear them apart, make you want to believe that the impossible is actually possible, and they will get their happy ever after.
This story will make you realise how fragile the world you have create can be, when one event can have you second-guessing the motives of everyone around, including friends and family, and reading danger and threats into every moment that you face.
There is a larger cast of characters that surround the Sullivans, and they all play their part beautifully to lead you to a conclusion that you just won’t see coming.
This is the second consecutive book that I have read that has had me questioning parenting decisions and making me much more aware of what can result through actions and words. You don’t always know what is happening around you.
I highly recommend grabbing a copy of One Of Us Is Missing, finding yourself a comfy spot, and seeing where the Sullivans take you.
#oneofusismissing
#bmcarroll
#bercarroll
#familysecrets
Affirm Press
I want to say so much about Ber’s latest book, but once again I don’t want to ruin it by giving away anything that will lessen it for other readers, so bear with me if I seem like I’m skirting around the edges with this review.
The tale is told from the point of view of the four family members, Rachel the mum, Rory the dad, and teenagers Emmet and Bridie, with both past and present timelines. This is very effective and gives a depth to the storyline, character personalities and the hidden dangers that surround the family without them even realising.
It all builds up to a Coldplay concert and on some level the whole family are looking forward to it, seeing it as a much-needed reward for a tough time that they have been having, and a little bit of a fresh start moment. What none of them are aware of, is that it may not be the fresh start they are looking for but it will be a moment that will change the rest of their lives.
Ber’s creative skill has you feeling like you are not only front and centre at the concert with the crushing crowds and the pumping music, but has you experiencing all the emotions both before and especially after one of the family goes missing. Their determination to make their family whole again despite the events that are trying to tear them apart, make you want to believe that the impossible is actually possible, and they will get their happy ever after.
This story will make you realise how fragile the world you have create can be, when one event can have you second-guessing the motives of everyone around, including friends and family, and reading danger and threats into every moment that you face.
There is a larger cast of characters that surround the Sullivans, and they all play their part beautifully to lead you to a conclusion that you just won’t see coming.
This is the second consecutive book that I have read that has had me questioning parenting decisions and making me much more aware of what can result through actions and words. You don’t always know what is happening around you.
I highly recommend grabbing a copy of One Of Us Is Missing, finding yourself a comfy spot, and seeing where the Sullivans take you.
#oneofusismissing
#bmcarroll
#bercarroll
#familysecrets
Affirm Press
April 29, 2024
Thank you Jo Peck and Net Galley for my ARC of this book, to be published on 30 April.
It is always a treat to open a new book by B M Carroll and this one is no exception: domestic noire, if that’s a genre, at its best! On paper Rachel and Rory and their teenage children, Bridie and Emmet, living in a Sydney beachside suburb, have got it all. In reality, however, they’ve each got their demons: first world problems maybe but no less painful for those living with them.
Rachel’s plans for a big family night out at a stadium concert aren’t going strictly according to plan but she is hoping the shared experience will lift the children’s spirits and rekindle the warmth she and Rory have lost.
A shocking turn of events finds one of the family is missing after the concert. B M Carroll has woven a dramatic, suspenseful tale which crept up on me and had me reaching compulsively for the book in every spare minute. I picked up on one clue relatively early but I didn’t come close to working out how it was going to end. That, for me, is the test of a good thriller.
The story is greatly enriched by the reasons for the private angst each character is suffering. They are all different, all relatable, although one of them is not exactly an average, every day problem!
Altogether an excellent thriller from one of Australia’s finest.
Published by Affirm Press.
It is always a treat to open a new book by B M Carroll and this one is no exception: domestic noire, if that’s a genre, at its best! On paper Rachel and Rory and their teenage children, Bridie and Emmet, living in a Sydney beachside suburb, have got it all. In reality, however, they’ve each got their demons: first world problems maybe but no less painful for those living with them.
Rachel’s plans for a big family night out at a stadium concert aren’t going strictly according to plan but she is hoping the shared experience will lift the children’s spirits and rekindle the warmth she and Rory have lost.
A shocking turn of events finds one of the family is missing after the concert. B M Carroll has woven a dramatic, suspenseful tale which crept up on me and had me reaching compulsively for the book in every spare minute. I picked up on one clue relatively early but I didn’t come close to working out how it was going to end. That, for me, is the test of a good thriller.
The story is greatly enriched by the reasons for the private angst each character is suffering. They are all different, all relatable, although one of them is not exactly an average, every day problem!
Altogether an excellent thriller from one of Australia’s finest.
Published by Affirm Press.
June 28, 2024
There is much to like about this book, but in the end, it lacked depths and literary merit. It is in the genre of crime thriller, which I guess is just not what I enjoy reading as much these days. Constantly moving from one family point of view to the next was not fantastic. Sorry but I did guess the entire plot by about 3/4 of the way through. And I wish I wouldn’t do that because it does spoil it a lot. I start to lose interest of course. This would make a great miniseries screened on Channel 7 hyped up as the crime thriller of the year and good luck to everyone involved. Well done just not my cuppa tea.
One thing I can truly say was that the audio version was appallingly read. It just lost all sense of suspense or drama. And I’m sorry those Irish accents were beyond bad. They were laughable. And don’t get me started on the one Yorkshire accent. I just believe that if you are going to do an accent that is strong in an audible novel, you need to either have the accent right or hire an additional reader who does have the accent right.
Just for curiosity sake, why on earth did the Irish heritage characters have to be there in the first place? Why is it that two of the characters absolutely needed to be from Ireland- it serves no purpose within the context of the work & same goes for that Yorkshire accent, character, taxi driver if I remember right.
One thing I can truly say was that the audio version was appallingly read. It just lost all sense of suspense or drama. And I’m sorry those Irish accents were beyond bad. They were laughable. And don’t get me started on the one Yorkshire accent. I just believe that if you are going to do an accent that is strong in an audible novel, you need to either have the accent right or hire an additional reader who does have the accent right.
Just for curiosity sake, why on earth did the Irish heritage characters have to be there in the first place? Why is it that two of the characters absolutely needed to be from Ireland- it serves no purpose within the context of the work & same goes for that Yorkshire accent, character, taxi driver if I remember right.
August 14, 2024
Oh my gosh, did this book take me on a wild ride. Set in Sydney, with oh so familiar landmarks, and the bonus of the setting being at a Coldplay concert in the heart of the city. It fondly reminded me of the energy and memories of when I attended a Coldplay concert, but mine didn't end so badly!
The premise focusses on a family of four, with secrets they've all been keeping from each other. It culminates at the Coldplay concert, where one goes missing, and the book focusses on a dual timeline between the hours after one family member goes missing, and all the secrets that were unravelling in the months and weeks leading up to this event.
I really enjoyed the past/present timeline, allowing us to look back and understand how fractious these relationships are, the insurmountable pressure building, and the ultimate relief of coming together to enjoy a concert together.
I found the story gripping and tense, and I had several theories of who/what caused the person to go missing, and I must say, I never saw it coming, which makes it all more appealing! A really great Australian domestic thriller!
The premise focusses on a family of four, with secrets they've all been keeping from each other. It culminates at the Coldplay concert, where one goes missing, and the book focusses on a dual timeline between the hours after one family member goes missing, and all the secrets that were unravelling in the months and weeks leading up to this event.
I really enjoyed the past/present timeline, allowing us to look back and understand how fractious these relationships are, the insurmountable pressure building, and the ultimate relief of coming together to enjoy a concert together.
I found the story gripping and tense, and I had several theories of who/what caused the person to go missing, and I must say, I never saw it coming, which makes it all more appealing! A really great Australian domestic thriller!
December 19, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed One of Us Is Missing—it’s a compelling thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. The story is brilliantly crafted, with a gripping plot that weaves suspense, mystery, and surprising twists.
The book follows a tightly-knit group of friends whose lives are thrown into chaos when one of them disappears under mysterious circumstances. As the narrative unfolds, secrets are revealed, and the tension builds as each character's motives and past are examined. What I found particularly engaging was how the author skillfully layered the story with complex characters, each with their own dark corners and hidden truths.
The pacing is spot on, with enough tension to keep you turning the pages quickly, and just when you think you’ve figured it out, there’s another twist that leaves you second-guessing everything. The mystery around the disappearance is thought-provoking, and it will keep readers guessing right until the very end.
Overall, One of Us Is Missing is an excellent read for anyone who enjoys psychological thrillers and mysteries with a rich, unpredictable plot. I definitely recommend it!
The book follows a tightly-knit group of friends whose lives are thrown into chaos when one of them disappears under mysterious circumstances. As the narrative unfolds, secrets are revealed, and the tension builds as each character's motives and past are examined. What I found particularly engaging was how the author skillfully layered the story with complex characters, each with their own dark corners and hidden truths.
The pacing is spot on, with enough tension to keep you turning the pages quickly, and just when you think you’ve figured it out, there’s another twist that leaves you second-guessing everything. The mystery around the disappearance is thought-provoking, and it will keep readers guessing right until the very end.
Overall, One of Us Is Missing is an excellent read for anyone who enjoys psychological thrillers and mysteries with a rich, unpredictable plot. I definitely recommend it!
January 19, 2025
I love the way B.M. Carroll has structured this novel from different points of view. It keeps the plot moving forward, you get an insight into the motivations of the main characters, and it builds the tension throughout.
The Sullivan family are planning a family night out, just mum, dad and the two kids to a Coldplay concert. Nothing too difficult, just an ordinary night out. But at the end of the concert, one of the family is missing.
Complexities of family life are highlighted throughout this book. Relationships and priorities questioned, and secrets - some are kept are some are revealed. There are also a number of possible perpetrators to this crime - they had opportunity and motive - but who is really responsible? The pressures put on the family while they desperately wait for an outcome mount resulting in truth telling - truths that some do not want to have aired.
Such a fabulous book.
The Sullivan family are planning a family night out, just mum, dad and the two kids to a Coldplay concert. Nothing too difficult, just an ordinary night out. But at the end of the concert, one of the family is missing.
Complexities of family life are highlighted throughout this book. Relationships and priorities questioned, and secrets - some are kept are some are revealed. There are also a number of possible perpetrators to this crime - they had opportunity and motive - but who is really responsible? The pressures put on the family while they desperately wait for an outcome mount resulting in truth telling - truths that some do not want to have aired.
Such a fabulous book.
August 27, 2024
I’m calling it - this is my 5⭐️ must read of the year.
I started this book on audible as I was going on a long drive. The drive wasn’t long enough! I got home, pulled the book off my shelf and read it late into the night / early morning. Definitely worth the loss of sleep!
BM Carroll has an incredible talent for writing from 4 different perspectives, going back in time and moving between both without the reader ever once feeling lost. Her writing is so descriptive and emotive I felt I was travelling with the family from Cronulla station to the stadium!
I definitely did not see the end coming and I didn’t pick which character would go missing. A real thriller that I am so glad I didn’t read before I went to the Taylor Swift concert. Plenty of twists and turns with an excellent examination of the secrets we keep from the ones we love the most!
I started this book on audible as I was going on a long drive. The drive wasn’t long enough! I got home, pulled the book off my shelf and read it late into the night / early morning. Definitely worth the loss of sleep!
BM Carroll has an incredible talent for writing from 4 different perspectives, going back in time and moving between both without the reader ever once feeling lost. Her writing is so descriptive and emotive I felt I was travelling with the family from Cronulla station to the stadium!
I definitely did not see the end coming and I didn’t pick which character would go missing. A real thriller that I am so glad I didn’t read before I went to the Taylor Swift concert. Plenty of twists and turns with an excellent examination of the secrets we keep from the ones we love the most!
October 3, 2024
2.75
This is the second book by Carroll where the start and premise is intriguing but the ending fails to deliver something solid. Such a shame!
The pacing is a little stop start with the different POVs and I feel another element of let down for this book is that it’s trying to fit too many themes into it and then none of them really ventured into .. so nothing to sink my teeth into - so to speak.
I kept turning pages because I did want to know what happened and the suspense was there for a good section of it. The repetition in internal monologue really watered down the experience though.
The ending was anticlimactic and just a little too ridiculously put together in terms of motive and how conveniently everyone was involved etc.
.. and seriously, how does Rory’s lie by omission parallel Rachel’s adultery?! Don’t even get me started on that of a star will be dropped!
This is the second book by Carroll where the start and premise is intriguing but the ending fails to deliver something solid. Such a shame!
The pacing is a little stop start with the different POVs and I feel another element of let down for this book is that it’s trying to fit too many themes into it and then none of them really ventured into .. so nothing to sink my teeth into - so to speak.
I kept turning pages because I did want to know what happened and the suspense was there for a good section of it. The repetition in internal monologue really watered down the experience though.
The ending was anticlimactic and just a little too ridiculously put together in terms of motive and how conveniently everyone was involved etc.
.. and seriously, how does Rory’s lie by omission parallel Rachel’s adultery?! Don’t even get me started on that of a star will be dropped!
September 7, 2024
Another absolutely brilliant page turner from B M Carroll. Its every parent’s worst nightmare to lose a child at an event that had thousands of people.
A rock concert in Sydney sees the parents sitting in the stands whilst the teenage children are on the ground in the mosh pit. Bridie is in her element and secretly wants to meet up with a boy, her brother Emmet doesn’t really want her to go but she does. After the concert she fails to return to their designated meeting point.
What ensues is a story with multiple points of view of the parents and teenagers before and after the concert where all are hiding secrets from one another which may or may not have contributed to her disappearance.
I believe this is B M Carroll’s best book yet - 5 stars from me!
A rock concert in Sydney sees the parents sitting in the stands whilst the teenage children are on the ground in the mosh pit. Bridie is in her element and secretly wants to meet up with a boy, her brother Emmet doesn’t really want her to go but she does. After the concert she fails to return to their designated meeting point.
What ensues is a story with multiple points of view of the parents and teenagers before and after the concert where all are hiding secrets from one another which may or may not have contributed to her disappearance.
I believe this is B M Carroll’s best book yet - 5 stars from me!
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