The Years I Lost

by Kristina Hall

After waking up in an abandoned building and having no memory of how she got there or who she is, Sadie goes on the run. She might not know anything about the last thirty-something years of her life, but she knows she’s in trouble. When Adam, a man claiming to be her husband, finds her and tells her the wild story of how she ended up in that building, can she trust him? Better yet, can she and Adam survive the danger stalking them—and find some semblance of a normal life together?

From Kristina Hall, author of women's Christian fiction, comes a suspense novel featuring high stakes, faith, and a hint of romance.

Genres: Thriller, Romance, Christian Fiction

196 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 28, 2025

About the author

Kristina Hall is a sinner saved by grace who seeks to glorify God with her words. She is a homeschool graduate and holds a degree in accounting. When she’s not writing, she enjoys reading, arm wrestling, lifting weights, and playing the violin.

Reviews

[J.E. Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read The Years I Lost in one sitting—it was riveting. It is fast-paced, highly suspenseful, and intense. Following Sadie's plight gave me a rush of adrenaline. As Sadie runs for her life, I am amazed by her coping ability.

The story went differently than I expected, but the ending wrapped everything up nicely. I loved the Christian aspect of the story and the fact that even though doubt took over Sadie's thoughts, she never lost her faith. It was a great roller-coaster of a read. I can't wait to see what the author comes up with next.

I received an ARC from the author; a positive review is not required. All opinions are my own.

[Kristina Hall]

9/19/2024 -- Finished the first draft

[Katja Labonté · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.7 stars (4/10 hearts). I've always been really intrigued by amnesia stories. There's something so fascinating about the idea of what the brain remembers and what it forgets. For this story, it's all connected to a drug that leaves you with all knowledge and skills, but no memory of the past...

While I didn't connect very closely to the characters, I appreciated their qualities, especially Adam, who was just an all-around nice guy. Lisa seemed rather oblivious and overlooked, but she was cute, and Sadie was sweet. Also, I loved seeing a suspense novel from the POV of a married woman and a mother.

Usually suspense is really hard for me to read, but I was pleasantly surprised by this one. There was enough high stakes, action, and mystery to keep me intrigued, but I didn't have to worry about villains jumping out from behind every dark corner, which is my especial horror. The climax happened awful fast and I was a bit confused on the details, but that's probably on me for reading too fast! I appreciated the anonymity of 'the employee,' which was very unique, and I liked how simple and plausible the plot was. Also, I appreciated how the police wasn't stupid or crooked, just unable to help for the most part.

Overall, it was a quick, diverting little book, and again, I really enjoyed getting to read suspense that didn't freak me out or distress me!

*I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*

[Kaytlin Phillips · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

I'm always down for a good amnesia trope book and this was very interesting! Like I loved the story!

Characters:
I felt so bad for poor Sadie....like, *hugs*... But her emotions and thoughts felt so real...and it was beautifully worked through!
Adam was such a good guy! like how sweet was he!🩵 He deserves a round of applause and lots of hugs!
Lisa was adorbs!

Themes:
That God can and will sustain us through any trial.

Language:
N/A

Romance:
A married couple, very sweet and light.

Violence/Gore:
Guns, being chased, drugged, almost drowned, etc...nothing overall detailed...all handled well.

Overall:
This was another great book from Hall, and I really enjoyed it!

Recommend 13+

*I received an ARC from the author. I was not required to leave a review, all thoughts and opinions expressed above are entirely my own.

[Virginia Henderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC copy from the author. No review was required. These are my own opinions.

Watch my review here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jQISX...

Suspenseful from cover to cover! The majority of this book is written from the perspective of a young woman, Sadie, who wakes up with absolutely no memory of who she is, where she is, or why she is on the run. While slightly repetitive, her POV is a believable jumble of confusion, doubt, and anxiety-and rightly so. I was instantly rooting for Sadie and hoping for a happy ending.

The plot was always moving and never dull. This could easily be read in one sitting.

The relationship between her and Adam was endearing. Adam was so gentle and patient, and Sadie tried so hard to settle into her new life and make things work. Their love combated the tragedy.

All in all, 4 stars! My favorite part was all the suspense. I never knew what to expect, and it made for a fun and exciting read. Highly recommend for readers of fast-paced suspense, clean romance, and Christian fiction.

Special thanks to the author for letting me be an ARC reader! 🙂

[Cate · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a captivating thriller novel with lovable characters (y'all, this couple is SO cute), a plot that turns and twists, and a satisfying conclusion. I tagged this book as second chance romance because the MC loses her memory, and so basically half of the book is them rebuilding their marriage This was my favorite quote of the entire book: “I don’t remember choosing to love you all those years ago, but I chose to love you now. I’m not gonna leave.” *fangirlish sigh* Chills, literal chills. Recommended for all fans of Christian/inspirational thrillers with nail-biting action and a cute romance that was very refreshing to read. (TW: some violence mentioned, POV of an assassin)

[Anna |This Curly Girl Reads| · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a really intense, quick read. By quick, what I really mean is that I had a hard time putting it down (and I’m a fast reader 😅).

The entire story is pretty intense, but well written. There are two POVS: one is pretty intense mentally!

As I’ve come to expect from Kristina’s writing the faith content is solid and the characters are awesome! I won’t give anything away but I really liked the “family” in the story 🥰 The end was satisfying though I would have loved to have seen more of the calm after the storm (just a personal preference but I understand why we didn’t see that!)

Content: violence, drugs
Recommend for older teen+

[Madisyn Carlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

RTC

[Edge · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. Read this all last night. 😆 what can I say?? I was…yeah the word isn’t coming! But I was def drawn into the plot.

Totally 💯 percent awesome and highly recommend it!

(I’m not super good with warnings since I’m not particularly sensitive…she’s being chased so? Whatever comes with that. And of course the whole paranoia and memory loss)

Adam is so sweet. 🥹 and Caring. And Lisa is just adorable.

Sadie… 🥺 gone through so much. Made me wanna cry.

Def recommend preordering a copy of this if you can!
(I don’t think it’s out yet? 🫣can’t remember)

***I got the ARC for this and by no means is this anyone else’s words; these are my honest thoughts!

[Sisters Three · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

[Rhys-Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Years I Lost is a captivating, fast-paced thriller about a couple on the run--and a woman who doesn't remember who she is. Although it was a little outside the genres I usually read, I enjoyed it. I liked the characters and especially the detailed exploration of Sadie's experience as she returns to a family she has forgotten. The writing style was clean and professional; I don't remember noticing any errors. This is a fairly short and quick novel, so it can be read in a couple of days--or less, depending on how much the reader likes suspense. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a fast-paced, well-written Christian suspense novel.

I would like to thank the author for giving me a free review copy. I was not required to write a positive review.

[Phyllis Jones Pisanelli Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Years I Lost by Kristina Hall is a book I will highly recommend to readers who love Christian Fiction. I have read enough books by her that I know she is one of my favorite authors. This one was one that was different for me. I love mysteries, suspense and thrillers and this one fell into the suspense genre. I couldn’t wait to read this book and it was everything I hoped it would be.

Sadie is one of the main characters in this book and she has lost all of her memory from before she woke up in an abandoned building. She doesn’t even know who she is. She goes on the run and her husband Adam finally finds her. She is learning about her life and trying to adjust into a new normal for her.

What I really like about this book is Sadie and Adam lean on their faith and their relationship with God to move forward. Although Sadie doesn’t understand why she had to lose her memory she knows God is with her moving forward and that she doesn’t need to know the reason that happened to her. I love it when the characters I am reading about pray and let us in on their conversations with the Lord.

The characters are likable and the storyline is believable. I can’t find any fault with this book other than I would have liked it to continue on. Don’t get me wrong here. There was enough in this book. I was just enjoying it so much, I wanted more. Don’t you think that is a sign of a good book?

If you love Christian Fiction and even If you have never read it, now is the time. I want to encourage you to give this book a try. It is not in your face or shoving it down your throat. It is a book that has a little romance, some crime and just a good clean story. If you love suspense novels, then I certainly would like to recommend The Years I Lost by Kristina Hall to you. It belongs on your nightstand. Until next time…Happy Reading!

Don’t forget to support the authors you read by leaving a review!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. The opinions I have expressed are my own and I was not required to write a review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

[Erica · Rating 4 out of 5]

I give this 4 1/2 Stars!

I want to start by saying I received an ARC of this book. This is a Christian romantic suspense book. The main characters are Adam and Sadie. Sadie wakes up in a warehouse having lost her memory. She doesn’t know who she is or what to do. She goes on the run and along the way Adam finds her. Adam is her husband who witnessed something and unfortunately Sadie was on the phone when it happened so people are after them. Will Sadie come to trust Adam? How will she feel when she finds out the reason she lost her memory and why they are on the run? Will she get her memories back or will she have to create new ones with Adam and her daughter Lisa? I loved how patient and respectful Adam was with Sadie. I love how they never lost Faith even through all of the trials they were facing. Their daughter Lisa was adorable. This book had the perfect amount of suspense. I didn’t want the book to end. I would’ve loved an epilogue further out but it still ended great. If you like books with amnesia, suspense, Faith filled, and overcoming hardships then I think you will love this book. Overall, I enjoyed this book and can’t wait to read more by this author.

[Abigail · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars!

Wow, this was so intriguing. I was drawn in from the first page . This was a clean and faith filled book. There is so much trust in God and learning to accept your cross. I really liked this one. I highly recommend this for anyone who loves clean suspense, the book will not disappoint.

I received a copy of this book. I was not required to write a review. These are my honest thoughts

[Anna Elizabeth-Lane · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book free from the author and was not required to write a review. All opinions and thoughts expressed are my own.

My Review: 4.5 out of 5 Stars

I was recently thinking how awesome it would be if someone would write a story about memory loss... and then Kristina Hall did so! I was so ecstatic that I immediately signed up to read The Years I Lost.

Characters: Poor Sadie. I loved her a lot, but I felt for her the entire time. Adam is also a sweet husband, and I appreciate their relationship (even when things got rocky!). Lisa is simply adorable, and the rest of the family is also lovely. I love how they supported Sadie even though she had no idea what was going on. The villains were mysterious and annoying. I want to smack them with a book... or a shovel. Either one works.

Writing Style/Plot: It's been a while since I've read a book by Kristina Hall, but I love her writing style! The story kept me engaged and always wanting to know more. As for the plot, I thought it was very clever. However, I thought the ending felt a little unfinished. I guess I was expecting more to happen, and the book finished sooner than I thought it would. Other than that, I thought the story was wonderful!

Violence: Well, this book is most definitely a thriller, so I think that aspect should be self-explanatory. Threats are made, people run away from other people, injuries occur, etc.. (SPOILER: Certain people die). Nothing is gratuitous or detailed.

Romance: Clean. Married couples kiss and hug, and that's about it.

Language: None.

Biblical Themes/Content: Characters pray and talk about God.

Overall, I really enjoyed (and recommend!) The Years I Lost. If you love clean Christian fiction with plenty of thrills, action, humor, and a smidgen of romance, then this is the book for you!

[Judith McNees · Rating 5 out of 5]

Had a glitch with posting my Amazon rating and review. Listened with my 16 year old daughter on a road trip. It kept us engaged and invested.

[Angie Thompson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book for the most part, and it was a different kind of take on an amnesia story. The suspense was done well, and I was on the edge of my seat by the end. Sadie was a sympathetic character, and I felt bad for her, but at the same time, it was hard to get to know her when she didn't even remember who she had been. Adam was probably my favorite, and I appreciated the way he continued to love and care for Sadie even after she'd lost her memories of him. I think the combination of the suspense plot that took a while to understand and having a hard time connecting to the protagonist is what kept it from being a favorite and also the fact that the amnesia is permanent--no! So sad..., but I did still enjoy the story and root for the characters.

3.5 stars

[Regina Felty · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are looking for a story with a plethora of intrigue and mystery, look no further. I was captivated from the first chapter and found myself constantly questioning how, why, and what in the world would happen next! I couldn’t imagine the inner turmoil Sadie experienced as she discovered she had a family and a life she had no memory of, and then struggled to find her place in her unfamiliar world. As if that weren't enough, she and her husband were forced to confront the fear and intense anxiety caused by dangerous stalkers. This book will keep you on the edge of your seat!

[Leslie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Waking up in a cold, dark place, not knowing who you are or how you got there is extremely scary for anyone. And yet that’s what happened to Sadie, the main character in Kristina Hall’s latest release The Years I Lost. As Sadie escapes the dark, she stumbles into the light and upon a man claiming to be her Husband, Adam. Adam tells Kristina a story too unbelievable to be true. But it is. Adam turns into a whistleblower by turning in his Boss, after seeing his Boss with a drug that has the ability to wipe out a person’s memory permanently. The only problem is Adam’s Boss sent people to take care of Adam and Sadie before they had the chance to go to the Police, successfully drugging and wiping away Sadie’s memory and attempting to do the same to Adam, but being unsuccessful. Ever since waking up without her memories, Sadie has had an innate sense to Trust God through it all and the people He has put in her path that have apparently always been there.

I loved The Years I Lost from the very first page to it’s very last! Kristina Hall did an excellent job at holding my interest at maintaining the amnesia component of the storyline all the way through the book. Writing The Years I Lost that way made Kristina Hall’s writing in the caliber of Colleen Coble, Lynette Eason, Nancy Mehl, Elle E. Kay, Sarah Hamaker, and Mary Alford. I love meeting Sadie and was sorry for the things that happened to her. I love that Ms. Hall wrote Sadie’s first instinct to be that Sadie called out to God from the get-go. I love meeting Adam as well. I love that Adam had integrity to do what was right regardless of the consequences. I’m thankful that Adam didn’t suffer the same fate as Sadie memory-wise. I really saw God’s Hand through the plot and how Ms. Hall allowed Him to Watch Out and Provide for Sadie and Adam. The suspense kept me on the edge of my seat, concerned about Sadie, and at the same time, I love that the way Sadie handled her memory loss and that things weren’t totally wrapped up in the book, still giving The Years I Lost closure for the Reader and for life to continue off page for it’s Characters. The Years I Lost is the first book I’ve read from Ms. Hall and it won’t be my last! If you are looking for a book that is suspenseful and shows the Fingerprints of God all along the way, in the midst of turmoil, then I highly recommend The Years I Lost by Kristina Hall! I’m looking forward to reading what Ms. Hall creates in the future and getting caught up with her previous books!

Have you read The Years I Lost? What did you think of the book?

I would like to thank Kristina Hall for giving me a copy of The Years I Lost to review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

My review is also on my blog, Leslie’s Library Escape and Amazon.

[Alison Nolen · Rating 5 out of 5]

9/10
When I saw the blurb for this new standalone, I couldn’t resist (& it’s been far too long since I read any work by the Hall sisters ;) ).

Sadie’s memory loss & paranoia were so real in this story I felt every paragraph. Thankfully there were still plenty of heartwarming moments to lull me out of that tension once in a while. Haha
Adam & Lisa were charming & I just wanted this family to succeed so much after the garbage they were subjected to by greedy people.

The struggles of rediscovering relationships & normal life were presented so well too, both in Sadie & all those closest to her that wanted to help so badly.
Even the villain perspective was highly relatable in their own misguided way. I enjoy a good pendulum of good vs. evil POVs.

If you love suspense, you’d be silly to miss out on this.

[Kimberly Heck · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was excellent! I read it in a day and a half. Sadie and Adam were great characters. No matter what they faced, they kept their eyes focused on the Lord and really pressed into their faith. They had struggles and disappointments and troubles but kept their eyes on the only One who could see them through, the Lord Jesus Christ. It was a great book and definitely worth the read!

I received this book free from the publisher/author. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

[Tracy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this psychological thriller from Kristina Hall. The sweet romance between an already married couple was my favourite part! I just loved Adam’s treatment of Sadie. I was left with a few unanswered questions at the end and would have appreciated seeing Adam have a little more struggle with Sadie (even though I loved his personality). This is a clean read, which is my favourite.


I received this book free from the publisher/author. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

[Rebecca Trump · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have read most of Kristina Hall’s books and I’m quite the fan of her writing. The Years I Lost was no exception. I know I’d better buckle up as the action starts, my nerves on edge as she dials into the character’s emotions and reactions. But the heart of her stories pointing the reader to God is the best of all. Her love for Him and His Word are evident in every tale. Don’t miss this emotionally charged book!!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. The opinions expressed are completely my own.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really enjoyed the fast pace of this book. It was such an interesting premise. Highly recommend this book.

[funkelbunt.liest · Rating 5 out of 5]

4,5 stars rounded to 5

The Years I Lost is a suspenseful and fast paced story which I devoured in two days.

While Sadie lost all her memories she soon learns after waking up that she is on the run and in real danger. Figuring out who she is, who she can trust and who she is running from is pretty intense and makes for some thrilling moments not only because up to a certain point the reader also doesn’t know who is friend or foe.

I loved that Sadie didn’t only get to know herself, her family and friends for a second time, she also rediscovered her faith. This gave the book a pretty unique perspective. The main character is a Christian but doesn’t remember being one so she learns to trust from anew in a very intimidating and threatening situation.

My only personal complaint is that the revelation who Sadie is and why she is targeted came a bit too soon for me as a reader. I loved the suspense of the first chapters when neither Sadie nor the reader knew what was going on and we meet Adam a bit too early on in the novel for my personal taste. (Even though I loved him as a character, all his explanations kind of dampened my enthusiasm for the story.)

I really enjoyed this faith filled suspense novel. The amnesia plot made this a captivating read and led to a new viewpoint on faith as well as to a second chance romance with a twist.

* Thank you to the author for letting me read an advanced copy of this book. I leave this review voluntarily and the expressed opinions are my own.

[Hannah Foster · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book had me gripped from page one. I had a hard time putting it down, so I appreciated the length and that it only took two days to read. Long enough to get invested in the story, but short enough that I'm not gonna lose sleep. ;)

I loved the characters, Sadie and Adam. Adam was so sweet and patient and gentle. I respected him a lot. It was exhausting at times to be in Sadie's head the whole time with her repetitive thoughts even though it was probably realistic to the situation. But I did love how she was constantly seeking God even if the prayers too were getting repetitive.

I loved the faith aspects of the story. The plot obviously had me intrigued and invested, and overall, it was a great suspense. Recommend for lovers of suspense with a nice splash of romance sprinkled in.

I received this book free from the publisher/author. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

[Patricia Haupt · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I began this book, I was as confused as the main character in the story! It took a few pages, and a few more characters, to get a better glimpse of what was going on and what had happened. That said, this is a great book. There will mountains and valleys of highs and lows with a lot of twists and turns to keep you guessing. Just when you think you have it figured out, it will take an unexpected turn! I would recommend this book for anyone who likes Christian fiction, mystery and intrigue. I received this book free from the publisher/author. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

[Lori · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! What an exciting book! This thriller was an easy read that was very hard to put down. While the book took a little twist in the middle of the story, I liked how it ended. You will fall in love with the main characters and want to throw something at the bad guys. All in all, this was a well written story and I would highly recommend adding it to your "want to read" selection.
I received this book free from the publisher/author. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

[Deb Warick · Rating 3 out of 5]

While the story started out with keeping my interest, sadly, it became boring, predictable and flat. No real climax. Disappointing.