The Lost Hours: A Thriller

by Lynn Tavernier

A disgraced detective tasked with investigating the suspicious death of a wealthy young woman must navigate a web of corruption to uncover the truth in this tense thriller for fans of Karen Dionne.

Detective Andrea Stuart was on a much-needed vacation, but when the body of a wealthy young woman from a prominent family is found at the base of a cliff, her plans are abruptly cut short. What appears to be a tragic accident quickly spirals into an investigation filled with unanswered questions and a series of disturbing clues that point to something far more sinister.

As Andrea digs deeper into the case, she discovers a world of privilege where appearances are everything and secrets are buried deep. The Philbrick family is determined to keep the truth hidden; the woman’s fiancée is a pillar of the community with holes in his story; and Andrea's superiors are pressuring her to close the case quickly and quietly. But Andrea is determined to get to the truth even though she knows that doing her duty could cost her everything.

Haunted by her past, Andrea must navigate the delicate balance between justice and self-preservation as she unravels the dark secrets of the Philbrick family–even if finding the truth might mean confronting the very demons she's been trying to escape.

Genres: Mystery, Thriller, Mystery Thriller, Audiobook

336 pages, Hardcover

Published September 23, 2025

Reviews

[Vonnie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’m going to be honest, the pacing felt off for me, and this one just wasn’t for me. The concept was interesting, but it didn’t hold my attention the way I hoped it would.

[Rachael · Rating 3 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️ 3 stars

The Lost Hours by Lynn Tavernier is a tense thriller following Detective Andrea Stuart, a disgraced officer pulled from her much-needed vacation to investigate the death of Hope Philbrick, a wealthy young woman from a powerful family. What at first appears to be a tragic accident soon reveals itself to be a web of corruption, secrets, and privilege. As Andrea digs deeper, she finds herself caught between pressure from her superiors to close the case quietly, the Philbrick family’s determination to protect their reputation, and her own haunted past.

There were definitely elements of this book that I enjoyed, but a few things kept me from fully connecting with it. One issue was how quickly the death scene was dismissed as an accident—surely unexplained deaths should be treated as potential crimes until proven otherwise? I also struggled with the way boxers were described; the portrayal felt unnecessarily harsh and untrue to reality, making me question whether the author had ever actually met a boxer.

Additionally, there were several narrative threads that were raised and then abandoned without resolution, which left the story feeling a little unfocused. Andrea herself was an interesting protagonist, but her willingness to repeatedly abandon the law and use tactics that were borderline (or outright) illegal made her difficult to root for—especially when so much of the evidence she uncovered would be inadmissible in court. The pacing also felt uneven, with some twists underdeveloped and not quite landing the way they should have.

Finally, I found the rohypnol angle odd. It’s a well-known drug, and the way the police reacted as if they had never heard of it before didn’t feel believable.

Despite these frustrations, I did enjoy parts of the book and appreciated its atmosphere and premise. It’s a solid thriller that just didn’t quite deliver for me, but readers who enjoy gritty, morally grey detective stories may still find it worth picking up.

Thank you to Lynn Tavernier, Crooked Lane Books, and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Lady Georgette · Rating 3 out of 5]

Date : 25th October 2025
Book : The Lost Hours
Author : Lynn Tavernier
Genre : Crime / Mystery / Thriller

Rating : ⭐️⭐️⭐️✨

This book follows detective Andrea Stuart who had hoped to take a week off on the shores of Jamestown in Rhode Island just to recharge. But fate (and a blocked call in the early hours) drags her into an investigation when a wealthy young woman dies after a fancy party. So she’s now pulled into a tangle of secrets, privilege and cover ups. (No spoilers, promise!🤞🏽)

I’m giving it a 3.5⭐️ because while it has strong plot points and kept me engaged, it didn’t quite reach the “adrenaline fuelled” level for me. However, it was a good slow burn suspense and character driven book and I would still recommend this!🫶🏽✨

Thank you to the author for my gifted copy and for letting me give my 100% honest review ❤️

[Leia McNeely · Rating 4 out of 5]

About The Lost Hours (from Penguin Random House and NetGalley)
When an embattled detective investigates the suspicious death of a wealthy young socialite, she unearths long-buried family secrets in this tense thriller for fans of Lisa Gardner. Detective Andrea Stuart thought her weeklong escape to the quiet shores of Jamestown would be a time to rest, to reconnect, to forget. But a blocked call in the early hours of the morning pulls her back into a world she’s been trying to leave behind—and into a case no one wants her to solve. Hope Philbrick—young, beautiful, and heir to one of Rhode Island’s most powerful families—has fallen to her death from a seaside cliff after her lavish pre-wedding celebration. Everyone says it was an accident. Her fiancé is grieving. The family wants silence. Andrea has been told, in no uncertain terms, to keep her head down and follow orders. But something about the scene doesn’t sit right. Not the missing witnesses. Not the body’s position. Not the lies—because Andrea can smell them. The deeper she digs, the more the glittering façade of privilege cracks, revealing a dark web of pressure, secrets, and betrayal that threatens to destroy more than just reputations. To uncover the truth, Andrea must risk her career—and confront a haunting past she’s never truly escaped.

REVIEW
The Lost Hours HAD me from the start. Crime fiction has been a bit of an obsession for me lately, so I had a feeling I would connect with this one! I was in a constant state of needing to know more about what haunted our protagonist (Det. Stuart) and why this case was so important for her. I HAD to find out what happened to Hope and why. This gripping story unfolds at a steady pace and will keep you intrigued from start to finish!

Thank you to NetGalley, Lynn Tavernier, and Crooked Lane Books for the ARC! I truly enjoyed it and will recommend to my fellow readers who are thrill seekers!

#netgalley
#crookedlane
#ARC

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Detective Andrea Stuart isn’t always on the best side of her bosses. She decides she needs some downtime and takes off to the Jamestown shores for a much needed break. The break was quite short when her bosses asked her to look into the accidental fall and death of a wealthy young woman Her instructions are to resolve the case and move on. That’s a lot to ask of Andrea as she sees what she sees and knows there is more to it than an accidental fall. Her first question is would Hope really consider suicide on the day of her pre-wedding party? As she digs into her case, she doesn’t always take steps that might be approved by her bosses but knows there’s possible candidates for what could be the murder of young Hope Philbrick. Andrea looks into who was in attendance that day or what family or friends might have done the deed. She also suspects that drugs may be involved and finds herself investigating date rape cases that just are a bit to close to home.

The beginning of the mystery unfolds a bit differently than other police procedurals and has a great tie into her past, her family and issues with her bosses. As the story developed I found myself more fascinated with the steps Andrea took in her investigation. She is a solid detective and throughout you’re glad that she didn’t always follow instructions as cases are not necessarily easily open and shut as so many higher-ups might wish. Thank you Crooked Lane Books and NetGalley for The Lost Hours ARC - a very enjoyable police procedural.

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

My friend Julie gave me this book since her mom is friends with the author and she knows I love thrillers and mysteries. I read this on my honeymoon so it took me longer than normal, but otherwise I think I would’ve flown right through it! I’m not usually big on police procedurals but I enjoyed this one, mainly because of the main character. She was interesting and realistic, and I understood her actions. The ending was a little too neatly wrapped up, but was satisfying overall. Thanks for the rec, Julie!

[Courtney · Rating 5 out of 5]

In her debut novel, Lynn Tavernier has artfully mastered the hometown, New England, murder mystery vibe. Following a young, snarky female detective with something to prove, through a socialite’s mysterious death has never felt so good. The main character has sassy and witty banter with a back story that continues to give. The characters are likable, well-written and always leave you guessing. Throughout the book, you really feel a part of the story and it keeps you guessing the whole way through. The descriptions of coastal Rhode Island and all the things that make this area amazing are spot on. The historical families, the money, the lifestyle, the values, the secrets - this book is captivating and captures it all. It is truly a great book and a perfect hometown mystery thriller!

[Dave · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed Lynn Tavernier's debut novel, about a young detective investigating a suspicious death in a normally idyllic coastal town.

The detective, Andrea Stuart, is not your ordinary detective, as she grew up in a fairly affluent and privileged home. She does have baggage, though, and it's the struggles that Andrea faces that shape her as a detective. I like that she's a character that feels fully formed and real. She has flaws, and she makes questionable decisions, and she suffers the consequences of her actions.

What made this most enjoyable to me is Tavernier's clever wit. She's funny when it fits the story, while keeping the tone consistent with that of a murder mystery. There's a dinner party at a large venue that has some hilarious characters that are well done.

Her descriptions, of people, places, and scenes, are one of her strongest skills, and bring a feeling of verisimilitude to the story. I live in Rhode Island, and I know many of the places described in the book, and they're spot on.

Her characters are memorable, and mostly sympathetic. I felt there was an opportunity to develop some of these relationships a little more, but that is a very minor issue. For example, her partner seemed to be a possible romance, but this didn't develop. The developing romance with the forensic doctor was nicely done, but didn't connect. Still, I'm glad the romantic aspects were kept to a minimum as that's not what I look for in a story.

The resolution was completely satisfying, and felt organic and realistic. I think that Andrea Stuart has more stories about her that would be fun to read. Well done, Lynn Tavernier!

[☆Laura☆ · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5

Andrea Stuart, una detective de Providence que esperaba una semana de descanso en las tranquilas costas de Jamestown. Pero una llamada en la madrugada la arrastra de nuevo al mundo del que ha estado intentando escapar.

La víctima: Hope Philbrick, una joven hermosa, rica y heredera de una poderosa familia de Rhode Island, que cae desde un acantilado tras una lujosa fiesta prenupcial. Aunque todos insisten en que fue un accidente, Andrea percibe que algo no cuadra. La escena, los testimonios y el ambiente de silencio impuesto por los Philbrick despiertan su instinto policial.

A medida que Andrea se adentra en la investigación, va desenmascarando una red de secretos familiares, lealtades corruptas, presiones sociales y mentiras cuidadosamente tejidas. Lo que comienza como una simple formalidad se transforma en un caso lleno de tensión, con implicaciones personales que la obligan a enfrentar no solo a una familia poderosa, sino también a su propio pasado.




Llevo casi dos meses intentando leer este libro porque cada vez que lo descargaba y lo enviaba a mi Kindle, ¡el archivo aparecía con otro nombre y nunca lo encontraba! Lo volvía a descargar... y así se repitió el ciclo como cuatro veces seguidas 🤦‍♀️😂



Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest.

[Keila (speedreadstagram) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I felt completely pulled into Andrea’s world from the start. I could relate to her need for a break, and when her vacation got interrupted by something so dark and complicated, I felt her frustration and exhaustion. I mean I would be frustrated too! As the investigation unfolded, I found myself getting angry right along with her, at the lies, the pressure from her superiors, and the way powerful people tried to bury the truth. I admired how determined she was, even when it clearly came at a personal cost. I felt tense, curious, and emotionally invested the whole time. Watching her push through her own pain to fight for justice made me root for her even more. This story made me think about how hard it is to do the right thing when everything’s stacked against you, and how brave it is to do it anyway.


Thank you to @crookedlanebooks @lynntavernierwrites and @netgalley for this e-arc. All thoughts are my own.

[Bexa · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was a confusing mess of a story. Had to sit through multiple explanations about roofies, which it's 2025, doesn't everyone know about this? Had to hear her inner monologue about her own roofied rape multiple times. The weird relationship she has with her mother and DC (which felt like he was babysitting her). The person that had done all the rapes happens to be the person she suspects of killing the victim. Her making stupid and reckless steps every time she left her house, and even when she was in her house! And then, the epilogue, where she's super concerned about the date with the doctor instead of making sure she's okay and her mother being like, yes dear of course let's get you ready. AND THEN we find out that they still didn't charge the perp with the victims murder because they couldn't prove it wasn't an accident/suicide. This book was dumb.

[Megan · Rating 3 out of 5]

I loved Andrea's character. You know something happened with her in the past, and you are slowly getting bits and pieces throughout the story. I loved her sass, which brought a lot of good banter throughout the book.

We are following her while she tries to solve a case of a young heir to a powerful family. They want to call it suicide and move on, but Andrea knows there is more to it.

Although I did enjoy a majority of the story, the pacing was kind of off for me. I found myself losing interest 50% in . I loved the twist at the end, and the epilogue was good.

[Shateau · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.25 stars. This was an ARC from NetGalley. Police/detective thrillers are one of my preferred genres, but this just fell flat. The character development and insight was one dimensional and the plot was fairly standard. There were a lot of trails explored that were just abandoned half way through. The final outcome felt a bit lazy and not memorable. I did not find myself interested in the characters or story.

[Lisa E · Rating 3 out of 5]

This one was not my favorite read lately. It didn't move as smoothly as I like a book to flow.

Something isn't right with what happened and how they want to investigate. After being told to follow orders and not rock the boat, Andrea doesn't always do what she "should" and takes her investigation in her own direction.

While this wasn't my favorite, I would give this author another chance.

Thank you to #Lynn Tavernier, #Crooked Lane Books, and #NetGalley for the ARC.

[Ellen Ross · Rating 5 out of 5]

The plot was so addicting! I loved Detective Andrea’s determination and resolve to get to the bottom of the crime despite all the roadblocks. There were lots of twists and turns that kept me guessing and on my toes as a reader. The main character’s past haunting her as she tries to do her job is such a relatable theme. This book was packed with suspense one every page. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I listened to this book - did not physically read it. With that said, I believe some stories are a little inconsistent or hop around when listened to rather than read - this book was no exception. I had to relisten to several sections just to make sure I heard it right. So, I thought some parts were repetitive but overall, the writing was smooth and flowing and the story was told very well. I highly recommend.

[Devi (TheBookAccountant) · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Lost Hours - 2.5 ⭐️ rounded up!
I thought of DNF-ing this several times over the weekend and omg i preserved (BUT AT WHAT COST)
So a detective on her way to vacation is roped into a death case instead.
The pacing was off, the FMC was highly unlikeable and KEPT REPEATING omg.
Example if she gave info to person A and person B walks into the scene and she says the SAME THING AGAIN. And unfortunately that doesn’t add value cause A and B don’t really use that info at all.

[Jessica Paparian · Rating 2 out of 5]

It took a bit to get into. It is her first published book- the idea behind it all was solid. However it was too wordy.
Or characters were overbuilt and then dropped out. Pieces of the story didn’t have the solid connection Or underwhelming.
I believe it just is the work of a new writer and she has some room for improvement. If you’re from southern Rhode Island and are familiar with the Jamestown
And Newport life- it’s fun to pic up and see all the ties.

[Claudete Takahashi · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Lost Hours covers the aftermath of those who are drugged with rohypnol and the consequences that abound when things go wrong. It's a search for justice and to uncover the truth in a world of privileges and money. It has an interesting plot, however, I could not totally engage with it. Entertaining!
I thank the author, her publisher, and NetGalley for this ARC.

[Lesley · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5 stars. Narrator did a nice job. Setting was well executed and I think it’s a good concept for a series, but the book seemed choppy and the end was very abrupt. Description in places it didn’t need to be when others could really use it.

[Lauri · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fun read. Fast-paced and interesting, plus I liked that it was set in Jamestown, RI - lots of fun references to local places there, in Newport, and in Providence. Recommended for fans of mystery/detective stories.

[Samantha Cosgrove · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Lost Hours by Lynn Tavernier – 3 stars. A thriller without quite enough of the thrill. A fair read that keeps you engaged, but I felt it needed something more to really stand out.



Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Amber Coddington · Rating 2 out of 5]

*audiobook

[Sharyn Fleischer · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fair story. Too wordy.

[Vicki Dorfman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent with character driven plot. Wonderful read for those with knowledge of Rhode Island especially!

[Eve · Rating 5 out of 5]

this was a great read - well paced, great characters, and I loved how the story captured Rhode Island society and culture.

[Vikki Sickels · Rating 3 out of 5]

Took too long to get interesting and it wasn’t clear when the character was going back to her college days

[Jenna · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you Net-Galley for this e-arc. I liked the concept of this book but honestly aside from the main character it just fell flat for me. I think the twist was very well-written but just kind of felt so rushed and sudden.

[Eileen Pekar · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thriller with a good story. Beginning felt a little slow but it picked up.

[Kymberlee Wendelin · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Lost Hours is a gripping murder mystery that kept me hooked from start to finish. I really enjoyed the story and all the twists along the way. It kept me guessing the entire time. I definitely didn’t see the ending coming, which made it even better. A great read for anyone who loves a mystery with unexpected turns.