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Special Agent Emily Ray #1
My Name Is Emily Ray
Emily Ray. Josie Vance. Danica Hansen. Three girls with one thing in they were all seven years old when they were abducted.
When young Josie Vance vanishes from Cove Park, California leaving behind her light-up sneakers, Special Agent Emily Ray leads the investigation to find her. She is the very best at finding abducted children. Twenty-eight years ago she was one of them.
As she leads the hunt, the kidnapper sends a drawing. It depicts a little girl in pink leggings, standing before a brick house, clutching silver balloons. The address scrawled in the background is identical to where Emily was held captive.
Along with a hair clip and a faded children's book, the clues spark a chilling realization: Her abductor may still be alive.
To find the missing girl, Emily must unearth the past she buried. But with every step, she fears the case is not just about saving one child, but confronting the man who's returned to destroy the life she's painstakingly rebuilt from the ashes.
Are you ready for your next keep-you-up-all-night page-turning thriller? Be prepared to find yourself utterly addicted to the Special Agent Emily Ray series. Perfect for fans of Noelle W. Ihli, A.J. Rivers and Jess Lourey.
When young Josie Vance vanishes from Cove Park, California leaving behind her light-up sneakers, Special Agent Emily Ray leads the investigation to find her. She is the very best at finding abducted children. Twenty-eight years ago she was one of them.
As she leads the hunt, the kidnapper sends a drawing. It depicts a little girl in pink leggings, standing before a brick house, clutching silver balloons. The address scrawled in the background is identical to where Emily was held captive.
Along with a hair clip and a faded children's book, the clues spark a chilling realization: Her abductor may still be alive.
To find the missing girl, Emily must unearth the past she buried. But with every step, she fears the case is not just about saving one child, but confronting the man who's returned to destroy the life she's painstakingly rebuilt from the ashes.
Are you ready for your next keep-you-up-all-night page-turning thriller? Be prepared to find yourself utterly addicted to the Special Agent Emily Ray series. Perfect for fans of Noelle W. Ihli, A.J. Rivers and Jess Lourey.
- GenresMystery
268 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 27, 2025
195 people are currently reading
360 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 157 reviews
March 21, 2025
Just when you think it’s safe…
Emily Ray was kidnapped and held for eight years by James Tibbs before she was finally able to escape. Now years later, she’s happily married with twin daughters. But her past is never far from her mind and she remains vigilant in keeping the demons at bay.
Emily has devoted her professional life to finding missing children as a special agent for the CARD UNIT (Child Abduction Rapid Deployment) of the FBI.
She’s been called in for a recent abduction that is eerily similar to her own. And when the kidnapper makes contact with the unit Emily is convinced. It's him! It’s James Tibbs!
But that’s impossible! He was killed shortly after she escaped!
I enjoyed Emily’s character and how the author displayed both her personal and professional sides equally. The supporting characters were represented well and equally fleshed out.
This was a compelling thriller that held my attention throughout. The twist was a complete surprise and phenomenal! I had to pause for a moment just to wrap my head around it! (Well done!)🙌
It looks like this will be the start of a new series featuring our main character and look forward to seeing where the author will take us next.
Thank you to Storm Publishing via NetGalley
Emily Ray was kidnapped and held for eight years by James Tibbs before she was finally able to escape. Now years later, she’s happily married with twin daughters. But her past is never far from her mind and she remains vigilant in keeping the demons at bay.
Emily has devoted her professional life to finding missing children as a special agent for the CARD UNIT (Child Abduction Rapid Deployment) of the FBI.
She’s been called in for a recent abduction that is eerily similar to her own. And when the kidnapper makes contact with the unit Emily is convinced. It's him! It’s James Tibbs!
But that’s impossible! He was killed shortly after she escaped!
I enjoyed Emily’s character and how the author displayed both her personal and professional sides equally. The supporting characters were represented well and equally fleshed out.
This was a compelling thriller that held my attention throughout. The twist was a complete surprise and phenomenal! I had to pause for a moment just to wrap my head around it! (Well done!)🙌
It looks like this will be the start of a new series featuring our main character and look forward to seeing where the author will take us next.
Thank you to Storm Publishing via NetGalley
April 16, 2025
My Name is Emily Ray by Michele Domínguez Greene
Synopsis /
Emily Ray. Josie Vance. Danica Hansen. Three girls with one thing in they were all seven years old when they were abducted.
When young Josie Vance vanishes from Cove Park, California leaving behind her light-up sneakers, Special Agent Emily Ray leads the investigation to find her. She is the very best at finding abducted children. Twenty-eight years ago she was one of them.
As she leads the hunt, the kidnapper sends a drawing. It depicts a little girl in pink leggings, standing before a brick house, clutching silver balloons. The address scrawled in the background is identical to where Emily was held captive.
Along with a hair clip and a faded children's book, the clues spark a chilling realization: Her abductor may still be alive.
To find the missing girl, Emily must unearth the past she buried. But with every step, she fears the case is not just about saving one child, but confronting the man who's returned to destroy the life she's painstakingly rebuilt from the ashes.
My Thoughts /
First and foremost, a huge THANK YOU to NetGalley, Storm Publishing and author, Michele Domínguez Greene for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review. Publication date is currently set for May 27, 2025.
🤩 WOW 🤩, 10/10 for one of the most surprising reveals in a book that I've read in a while. I have to say, I never saw that one coming.
My Name Is Emily Ray is the first book in a brand new series, Special Agent, Emily Ray, and, as the title gives away, features FBI Special Agent, Emily Ray. As head of the CARD UNIT (Child Abduction Rapid Deployment) of the FBI, it's Emily's job to locate, find, and rescue children who are the victims of an abduction. It's not a job for the faint hearted. On their last assignment, although Emily and her team were successful in locating the missing child, the team did not arrive in time to find the child alive.
The reader learns that Special Agent Ray has a unique connection to each of the missing children her team are tasked with finding. When Emily Ray was just seven years old, she was abducted by a man called James Tibbs and held captive for eight years; at which point she was able to flee from her confinement and was reunited with her family. Since that time, Emily has made it her life's work to locate missing children and return them to their homes.
In this instalment, the CARD UNIT has been tasked to find young Josie Vance. Seven-year-old Josie seemingly disappeared without a trace from a local playground, while under the watchful eye of her nanny. As the team's investigation begins, Emily uncovers chilling evidence suggesting that her (own) past may be about to collide with the present.
The author writes that she has been fascinated by the emotional journey of people who survive complex trauma and questions why some people are perceived as more worthy than others; and why some children (or people) are valued and other discarded. It's an interesting topic of research. Another important question to ask might be, what happens when the narrative is switched?
There are themes at play here which may trigger some readers: child abduction/abuse, and mental health issues like PTSD and OCD. However, this reader thought these were all handled with a high level of care and skill; and were covered off no more than as necessary to fit in with the scope of the story.
There have been plenty who have slotted this one into the psychological thriller genre; but I'm not sure how I would categorise this one. Mystery. Thriller. Most definitely. Psychological thriller….I could be swayed, those surprising reveals definitely messed with my mind!
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Storm Publishing for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
Synopsis /
Emily Ray. Josie Vance. Danica Hansen. Three girls with one thing in they were all seven years old when they were abducted.
When young Josie Vance vanishes from Cove Park, California leaving behind her light-up sneakers, Special Agent Emily Ray leads the investigation to find her. She is the very best at finding abducted children. Twenty-eight years ago she was one of them.
As she leads the hunt, the kidnapper sends a drawing. It depicts a little girl in pink leggings, standing before a brick house, clutching silver balloons. The address scrawled in the background is identical to where Emily was held captive.
Along with a hair clip and a faded children's book, the clues spark a chilling realization: Her abductor may still be alive.
To find the missing girl, Emily must unearth the past she buried. But with every step, she fears the case is not just about saving one child, but confronting the man who's returned to destroy the life she's painstakingly rebuilt from the ashes.
My Thoughts /
First and foremost, a huge THANK YOU to NetGalley, Storm Publishing and author, Michele Domínguez Greene for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review. Publication date is currently set for May 27, 2025.
🤩 WOW 🤩, 10/10 for one of the most surprising reveals in a book that I've read in a while. I have to say, I never saw that one coming.
My Name Is Emily Ray is the first book in a brand new series, Special Agent, Emily Ray, and, as the title gives away, features FBI Special Agent, Emily Ray. As head of the CARD UNIT (Child Abduction Rapid Deployment) of the FBI, it's Emily's job to locate, find, and rescue children who are the victims of an abduction. It's not a job for the faint hearted. On their last assignment, although Emily and her team were successful in locating the missing child, the team did not arrive in time to find the child alive.
The reader learns that Special Agent Ray has a unique connection to each of the missing children her team are tasked with finding. When Emily Ray was just seven years old, she was abducted by a man called James Tibbs and held captive for eight years; at which point she was able to flee from her confinement and was reunited with her family. Since that time, Emily has made it her life's work to locate missing children and return them to their homes.
In this instalment, the CARD UNIT has been tasked to find young Josie Vance. Seven-year-old Josie seemingly disappeared without a trace from a local playground, while under the watchful eye of her nanny. As the team's investigation begins, Emily uncovers chilling evidence suggesting that her (own) past may be about to collide with the present.
The author writes that she has been fascinated by the emotional journey of people who survive complex trauma and questions why some people are perceived as more worthy than others; and why some children (or people) are valued and other discarded. It's an interesting topic of research. Another important question to ask might be, what happens when the narrative is switched?
There are themes at play here which may trigger some readers: child abduction/abuse, and mental health issues like PTSD and OCD. However, this reader thought these were all handled with a high level of care and skill; and were covered off no more than as necessary to fit in with the scope of the story.
There have been plenty who have slotted this one into the psychological thriller genre; but I'm not sure how I would categorise this one. Mystery. Thriller. Most definitely. Psychological thriller….I could be swayed, those surprising reveals definitely messed with my mind!
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Storm Publishing for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
March 5, 2025
Everything about this book caught my attention! This includes the book cover, the author and the storyline. I had no idea that I would enjoy reading it so much! It gave me mystery vibes the entire time I was reading it! This thriller book is heartbreaking, full of emotions, twisty and sad. I felt like I was watching a movie while reading it. I would not be surprised if this does turn into a movie! It is a very addictive read, just a heads up! Furthermore, it is very well written and is an easy book to read. It is fast pacing and thought provoking. It is what you would call a Parent’s worst nightmare!
My Name is Emily Ray is a story about a FBI agent, who investigates a child abduction in Cove Park, California. When she hears about a new child abduction, she takes charge. However, Emily Ray is not just an FBI agent working on this case, she was also abducted as a child herself in her hometown at Cove Park, California. She was only seven years old when she was abducted. While attempting to find the missing seven year old girl named Josie Vance, Emily has flashbacks of her own when she was kidnapped. Will these triggers help or hurt her investigation in finding the girl? Is this the same person that abducted Emily when she was just a child? Emily thinks that Josie’s abductor is the same one who abducted her twenty eight years ago. Be sure to read the content warnings before reading this book
Thank you to NetGalley, author Michele Dominguez Greene and Storm Publishing for this advanced reader’s copy in exchange for my honest review! I rate this a high 4 out of 5 stars! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
My Name is Emily Ray is a story about a FBI agent, who investigates a child abduction in Cove Park, California. When she hears about a new child abduction, she takes charge. However, Emily Ray is not just an FBI agent working on this case, she was also abducted as a child herself in her hometown at Cove Park, California. She was only seven years old when she was abducted. While attempting to find the missing seven year old girl named Josie Vance, Emily has flashbacks of her own when she was kidnapped. Will these triggers help or hurt her investigation in finding the girl? Is this the same person that abducted Emily when she was just a child? Emily thinks that Josie’s abductor is the same one who abducted her twenty eight years ago. Be sure to read the content warnings before reading this book
Thank you to NetGalley, author Michele Dominguez Greene and Storm Publishing for this advanced reader’s copy in exchange for my honest review! I rate this a high 4 out of 5 stars! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 28, 2025
Fantastically entertaining first book of a hopefully long Emily Ray series.
Emily Ray is the lead FBI agent with CARD (child abduction rapid deployment). Happily married with two young daughters, she has a happy home life and is dedicated to her job.
However Emily lived the nightmare she often has to solve, having being kidnapped as a child and held for 8 years before she escaped.
Still traumatised from the events decades later and still seeing the same psychologist from her childhood , the cases can take a lot out of her and none more so than the one she’s about to face.
When a child is abducted in broad daylight and vanishes without a trace with no clues or evidence left behind, the similarities to her own abduction soon become apparent and when she starts receiving mail from the abductor containing items that relate to her past, things only her abductor would know, the trauma starts to creep up on her again. Her kidnapper is long dead, killing himself a couple of decades ago, yet who else could know of these items from her captivity and can she save the young girl that has vanished without trace?
This was a blast to read. At a little under 300 pages I applaud the author for keeping it so lean and not padding it out to 350-400 pages like many have done before. The story is told here fully and still leaves enough room for the characters to breath and be developed.
Clever story telling and pacing with a twist halfway through that I’m still unsure whether I liked or not but by that time I was already all in so I went with it.
It’s a long time since I’ve read such an entertaining and accomplished first book in a series. I can’t wait for the next one.
Many thanks to Storm Publishing for the ARC through Netgalley.
Emily Ray is the lead FBI agent with CARD (child abduction rapid deployment). Happily married with two young daughters, she has a happy home life and is dedicated to her job.
However Emily lived the nightmare she often has to solve, having being kidnapped as a child and held for 8 years before she escaped.
Still traumatised from the events decades later and still seeing the same psychologist from her childhood , the cases can take a lot out of her and none more so than the one she’s about to face.
When a child is abducted in broad daylight and vanishes without a trace with no clues or evidence left behind, the similarities to her own abduction soon become apparent and when she starts receiving mail from the abductor containing items that relate to her past, things only her abductor would know, the trauma starts to creep up on her again. Her kidnapper is long dead, killing himself a couple of decades ago, yet who else could know of these items from her captivity and can she save the young girl that has vanished without trace?
This was a blast to read. At a little under 300 pages I applaud the author for keeping it so lean and not padding it out to 350-400 pages like many have done before. The story is told here fully and still leaves enough room for the characters to breath and be developed.
Clever story telling and pacing with a twist halfway through that I’m still unsure whether I liked or not but by that time I was already all in so I went with it.
It’s a long time since I’ve read such an entertaining and accomplished first book in a series. I can’t wait for the next one.
Many thanks to Storm Publishing for the ARC through Netgalley.
May 2, 2025
Thank you to Netgalley and Storm Publishing for the advanced e-book copy.
Seven-year-old Josie Vance is abducted in broad daylight at a park in California. It’s up to special agent Emily Ray to lead the investigation and bring Josie back home. Emily is the best at finding abducted children. After all, she was also abducted herself 28 years ago.
This is a fast-paced thriller, and I breezed through this one. This one is sure to keep you on your toes! There were two major plot twists in this book; one I figured out, and the other I didn’t see coming! My Name is Emily Ray is the first in the series, and I can’t wait for the next book to be released.
Seven-year-old Josie Vance is abducted in broad daylight at a park in California. It’s up to special agent Emily Ray to lead the investigation and bring Josie back home. Emily is the best at finding abducted children. After all, she was also abducted herself 28 years ago.
This is a fast-paced thriller, and I breezed through this one. This one is sure to keep you on your toes! There were two major plot twists in this book; one I figured out, and the other I didn’t see coming! My Name is Emily Ray is the first in the series, and I can’t wait for the next book to be released.
April 19, 2025
My Name is Emily Ray is a deeply moving and beautifully written story that lingers long after the final page. Michelle Domingues Greene has crafted a character in Emily Ray who feels so real, so vulnerable, and yet so resilient. Her journey is one of self-discovery, courage, and hope, and I found myself completely invested in her from the very beginning. This book is a must-read for anyone who appreciates powerful storytelling and authentic, unforgettable characters. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this early release in exchange for my honest review. To be published May 27, 2025.
May 10, 2025
My Name Is Emily Ray is the first installment of what will likely be a series of FBI crime stories from author Michele Dominguez Greene. Emily Ray is a once-kidnapped child turned FBI agent that specializes in kidnapping cases across the United States. What looks like a picture perfect life with twin girls and doting husband, is peppered with OCD and other nuances stemming from the trauma of her youth.
Now Emily Ray is working the case of Josie Vance, an almost identical crime to her very own abduction twenty years ago. Is this a copycat, a coincidence, or something more? And is the secret Emily carries with her going to be exposed? The race is on to not only face her own demons, but to rescue a little girl before it’s too late.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story as a part procedural, part PTSD retelling of her own history. I liked how the two storylines crossed and how the dialogue wasn’t forced.
While I wanted to complete the book and find out what happens in the end, this story lacked the suspense and thrill factor of this genre. The story read more like a general fiction than a mystery/thriller or suspense novel. I rated this 3.5 stars overall. Thank you NetGalley and Storm Publishing for this ARC!
Now Emily Ray is working the case of Josie Vance, an almost identical crime to her very own abduction twenty years ago. Is this a copycat, a coincidence, or something more? And is the secret Emily carries with her going to be exposed? The race is on to not only face her own demons, but to rescue a little girl before it’s too late.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story as a part procedural, part PTSD retelling of her own history. I liked how the two storylines crossed and how the dialogue wasn’t forced.
While I wanted to complete the book and find out what happens in the end, this story lacked the suspense and thrill factor of this genre. The story read more like a general fiction than a mystery/thriller or suspense novel. I rated this 3.5 stars overall. Thank you NetGalley and Storm Publishing for this ARC!
March 4, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my copy of this book.
Emily Ray is an FBI agent, who is in charge of a team investigating child abduction. When a little girl is taken they are called in to help. Emily has a troubled part. She was kidnapped as a little girl and kept for 5 years before escaping. The little girl looks like Emily and the kidnapper keeps sending clues that only Emily would recognise.
I knew this was a fantastic book within the first chapter. I couldn’t put it down as it had me hooked. Loved all the characters, the suspense and the problem solving. I really hope there will be more coming from this author! Secrets were revealed slowly and while I suspected one of them, it was still a big shock when it came true. The procedural talk was the perfect fit of being informative without being too deep.
Highly recommend.
Emily Ray is an FBI agent, who is in charge of a team investigating child abduction. When a little girl is taken they are called in to help. Emily has a troubled part. She was kidnapped as a little girl and kept for 5 years before escaping. The little girl looks like Emily and the kidnapper keeps sending clues that only Emily would recognise.
I knew this was a fantastic book within the first chapter. I couldn’t put it down as it had me hooked. Loved all the characters, the suspense and the problem solving. I really hope there will be more coming from this author! Secrets were revealed slowly and while I suspected one of them, it was still a big shock when it came true. The procedural talk was the perfect fit of being informative without being too deep.
Highly recommend.
May 28, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley for giving me a chance to read an ARC of this book for an honest review.
Well this book was interesting, the fact that Emily Ray was kidnapped at a young age and kept for so long is sad, but she comes back stronger than ever, or does she? Imagine being kidnapped and escaping, then later in your life after you've grown up and become an FBI agent that you have a case come across your desk that is the exact same as your kidnapping. Emily has to try to solve this case without fully losing herself in it, but what is she supposed to do when the killer is sending messages that are for her and make her realize that not everything from her past is what it seems.
I was really impressed with the fact that there were some twists and turns in this book that I wasn't expecting, but there were still somethings that were very predictable.
Well this book was interesting, the fact that Emily Ray was kidnapped at a young age and kept for so long is sad, but she comes back stronger than ever, or does she? Imagine being kidnapped and escaping, then later in your life after you've grown up and become an FBI agent that you have a case come across your desk that is the exact same as your kidnapping. Emily has to try to solve this case without fully losing herself in it, but what is she supposed to do when the killer is sending messages that are for her and make her realize that not everything from her past is what it seems.
I was really impressed with the fact that there were some twists and turns in this book that I wasn't expecting, but there were still somethings that were very predictable.
May 31, 2025
My Name is Emily Ray by Michelle Domínguez Greene is a masterfully crafted with a well-constructed story full of unexpected twists, this book was a true page-turner.
The story follows a strong and complex female protagonist, expertly woven into a narrative that's both gripping and unpredictable. The author's writing is engaging, well written, and easy to follow.
With its well paced plot and surprising revelations, "My Name is Emily Ray" is a must-read for fans of thrilling fiction. Greene's skillful storytelling will keep you hooked from start to finish, making this book an unputdownable read.
Perfect for readers who enjoy character-driven fiction, mystery, and suspense.
Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the opportunity to read and review this book.
The story follows a strong and complex female protagonist, expertly woven into a narrative that's both gripping and unpredictable. The author's writing is engaging, well written, and easy to follow.
With its well paced plot and surprising revelations, "My Name is Emily Ray" is a must-read for fans of thrilling fiction. Greene's skillful storytelling will keep you hooked from start to finish, making this book an unputdownable read.
Perfect for readers who enjoy character-driven fiction, mystery, and suspense.
Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the opportunity to read and review this book.
June 13, 2025
Just finished My Name is Emily Ray and I honestly loved it. It was such an easy, natural read and I got completely drawn into Emily’s world. What really made this book stand out for me were the unexpected plot twists. Just when I thought I had everything figured out, the story would take a surprising turn, and I found myself unable to put the book down. It kept me guessing and fully invested in the characters' lives right until the very end.
If you’re after something that’s easy to get into but still keeps you on your toes, I’d definitely recommend this one!
If you’re after something that’s easy to get into but still keeps you on your toes, I’d definitely recommend this one!
June 4, 2025
I loved this one and I'm so happy that it's the first book in a new series!! I thought Emily was such an interesting character being that she had been kidnapped as a child and now works for the FBI on child abduction cases. I also liked her relationship with her husband and kids.
I enjoyed following along on the investigation to find Josie and how her case seemed to be linked to Emily's disappearance years ago.
This one kept me turning the pages and was full of suspense! And props to that one twist that I did not see coming! It made me have to stop and process for a few minutes!
I will be eagerly waiting for book two!!
I enjoyed following along on the investigation to find Josie and how her case seemed to be linked to Emily's disappearance years ago.
This one kept me turning the pages and was full of suspense! And props to that one twist that I did not see coming! It made me have to stop and process for a few minutes!
I will be eagerly waiting for book two!!
April 1, 2025
I enjoyed how the plot twist of this book was in the middle instead of towards the end. Made it a whole lot interesting. Although nothing interesting really started to happen until halfway through the book. The ending felt a little rushed as well but it was still a good read.
~thank you to NetGalley & the author & storm publishing for giving me a chance to read and review this book ~
~thank you to NetGalley & the author & storm publishing for giving me a chance to read and review this book ~
May 4, 2025
When Emily Ray was just seven years old, she was kidnapped and held hostage for the next eight years of her life by a monster called James Tibbs, before she finally managed to escape at the age of fifteen. Despite her traumatic childhood, Emily managed to build a new life for herself and she has a wonderful husband and twin daughters. She also has a career that she loves, one that consists of finding missing children as she works as a special agent in the FBI.
She has devoted her life to saving lost children, and when a new case comes up about a missing seven year old girl, the similarities to Emily’s own kidnapping experience are uncanny, and all of the demons and memories of her past that she’s been trying to keep at bay resurface as she races to find the missing little girl before it’s too late.
This is a compelling thriller that was so wonderfully written, and it really does keep you guessing until the very end. The twists in this book totally took me off guard, which isn’t easy to do because I usually guess twists pretty early on, but there was a specific twist in here that made my jaw literally drop! I also absolutely loved the main character, Emily, and I loved getting to know her character on a deeper level. I really liked how we saw two sides to Emily— the professional side, and the personal side, and I fell in love with her character!
My only issue with this book is that I did find the ending pretty rushed, and that was kind of disappointing because the whole lead up to the kidnapper reveal was amazing and so tense, and I was expecting a big showdown, but I found the conclusion was too fast paced for me and I would have enjoyed more of a drawn out showdown between Emily Ray and the kidnapper.
Overall though, this was a really great thriller, and I’m so happy this is the first book in a series and I can’t wait to read more from Emily’s perspective in the future!
Thank you to NetGalley and to the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
She has devoted her life to saving lost children, and when a new case comes up about a missing seven year old girl, the similarities to Emily’s own kidnapping experience are uncanny, and all of the demons and memories of her past that she’s been trying to keep at bay resurface as she races to find the missing little girl before it’s too late.
This is a compelling thriller that was so wonderfully written, and it really does keep you guessing until the very end. The twists in this book totally took me off guard, which isn’t easy to do because I usually guess twists pretty early on, but there was a specific twist in here that made my jaw literally drop! I also absolutely loved the main character, Emily, and I loved getting to know her character on a deeper level. I really liked how we saw two sides to Emily— the professional side, and the personal side, and I fell in love with her character!
My only issue with this book is that I did find the ending pretty rushed, and that was kind of disappointing because the whole lead up to the kidnapper reveal was amazing and so tense, and I was expecting a big showdown, but I found the conclusion was too fast paced for me and I would have enjoyed more of a drawn out showdown between Emily Ray and the kidnapper.
Overall though, this was a really great thriller, and I’m so happy this is the first book in a series and I can’t wait to read more from Emily’s perspective in the future!
Thank you to NetGalley and to the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 28, 2025
4 🌟
My Name is Emily Ray by Michelle Dominguez Greene is the first book in the Special Agent Emily Ray series. Nearly thirty years ago, Emily was abducted by Tibbs and held captive for years. Now, as an adult, she's part of the FBI and helps find abducted children. Her latest case involves a little girl stolen from a park, and Emily's past comes back to haunt her.
I thought this was pretty good! It's a very quick read. I did find Emily slightly unlikeable at the beginning of the book, but you don't go through that much trauma in your life without some rough edges - no matter how much therapy you go through. She grew on me as the story progressed, and I empathized with and rooted for her. I appreciated that the author took complex PTSD and other after-effects of childhood trauma seriously in this novel. Now I'm looking forward to the second book in the series!
Recommended for fans of fast-paced thrillers.
Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the ARC.
My Name is Emily Ray by Michelle Dominguez Greene is the first book in the Special Agent Emily Ray series. Nearly thirty years ago, Emily was abducted by Tibbs and held captive for years. Now, as an adult, she's part of the FBI and helps find abducted children. Her latest case involves a little girl stolen from a park, and Emily's past comes back to haunt her.
I thought this was pretty good! It's a very quick read. I did find Emily slightly unlikeable at the beginning of the book, but you don't go through that much trauma in your life without some rough edges - no matter how much therapy you go through. She grew on me as the story progressed, and I empathized with and rooted for her. I appreciated that the author took complex PTSD and other after-effects of childhood trauma seriously in this novel. Now I'm looking forward to the second book in the series!
Recommended for fans of fast-paced thrillers.
Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the ARC.
March 6, 2025
3.75 rounded up This is my first book by Michelle Domiguez Greene and I was not expecting to enjoy this as much as I did! A police procedural with a twist, the investigator was held captive for a large portion of her life. Then, a child is kidnapped in the same fashion as she was when she was a child. The twist in the middle of the book surprised me. Overall, I love how this book played out in the end!
Thank you NetGalley and Storm Publishing for an ARC of this book in exhange for my honest review.
Thank you NetGalley and Storm Publishing for an ARC of this book in exhange for my honest review.
March 1, 2025
Thank you Storm Publishing for pre-approving me to read this via Netgalley
Seven year old Josie Vance is taken in broad daylight whilst on a trip to the park with her Nanny.
FBI agent Emily Ray is brought in to lead the investigation, she is the best in her field because, at the age of 7, she too was kidnapped and kept until the age of 15.
As the team begin to find clues and receive correspondence from the kidnapper it soon becomes apparent that this is a lot more than a random act. This is personal to Emily and her past.
A hand drawn picture shows Josie standing outside of a house. The house that Emily was kept in all of those years ago. A house that had burned down.
Her kidnapper had taken his own life after her escape, she had identified his remains.
Who was behind this and why? What is the perpetrator trying to achieve?
As Emily fights to save Josie she is faced with deep, dark secrets from her past that could destroy her and everything she loves.
I absolutely loved this, it pulls you right in and grips you the whole way through! The chapters are short and snappy and, whilst the main narrative is in the present, we do get snippets from the past as well which really give insight into Emily's character.
At a certain discovery I hit an "Oh wow" moment, I actually said it out loud and woke my husband up 🙈 This is obviously a huge positive to feel that way about part of a story!!
I'm so excited that this is just the first book of a series and I am already bursting to read more!
I highly recommend this to any thriller/crime readers out there!
xx
Seven year old Josie Vance is taken in broad daylight whilst on a trip to the park with her Nanny.
FBI agent Emily Ray is brought in to lead the investigation, she is the best in her field because, at the age of 7, she too was kidnapped and kept until the age of 15.
As the team begin to find clues and receive correspondence from the kidnapper it soon becomes apparent that this is a lot more than a random act. This is personal to Emily and her past.
A hand drawn picture shows Josie standing outside of a house. The house that Emily was kept in all of those years ago. A house that had burned down.
Her kidnapper had taken his own life after her escape, she had identified his remains.
Who was behind this and why? What is the perpetrator trying to achieve?
As Emily fights to save Josie she is faced with deep, dark secrets from her past that could destroy her and everything she loves.
I absolutely loved this, it pulls you right in and grips you the whole way through! The chapters are short and snappy and, whilst the main narrative is in the present, we do get snippets from the past as well which really give insight into Emily's character.
At a certain discovery I hit an "Oh wow" moment, I actually said it out loud and woke my husband up 🙈 This is obviously a huge positive to feel that way about part of a story!!
I'm so excited that this is just the first book of a series and I am already bursting to read more!
I highly recommend this to any thriller/crime readers out there!
xx
May 23, 2025
Thank you to Storm Publishing via Netgalley for the ARC copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
Special Agent Emily Ray is part of the CARD division of the FBI which involves finding missing children. She goes back to her hometown and neighborhood for a case that involves a kidnapping of a young girl from a park while with her Nanny. This case becomes eerily familiar when it starts to have clues that point her to her own abduction 20 yrs ago. She had been missing for 8 years when her abductor let her go and committed suicide. Now she must figure out if this little girls case is a copycat or is her secrets coming back to haunt her?
I loved this book, it gave me Criminal Minds vibes without the focus on a full team. I like book series like these as palate cleansers in between larger books they are fun to read, satisfying, and make you want to know more about the characters and what is next for them. Emily’s character development was great I liked her from the beginning and the bombshell I never guessed. I am excited to see where her character heads next. I would have liked to know more of what happened to Josie and the abduction side maybe from the villain perspective just to get more of his POV and background of why he did it. I also loved that it had a small amount of spice in it, just one small scene. Overall I really liked this book and cannot wait for book 2.
If you love criminal procedural thrillers or series then this is the book for you.
Special Agent Emily Ray is part of the CARD division of the FBI which involves finding missing children. She goes back to her hometown and neighborhood for a case that involves a kidnapping of a young girl from a park while with her Nanny. This case becomes eerily familiar when it starts to have clues that point her to her own abduction 20 yrs ago. She had been missing for 8 years when her abductor let her go and committed suicide. Now she must figure out if this little girls case is a copycat or is her secrets coming back to haunt her?
I loved this book, it gave me Criminal Minds vibes without the focus on a full team. I like book series like these as palate cleansers in between larger books they are fun to read, satisfying, and make you want to know more about the characters and what is next for them. Emily’s character development was great I liked her from the beginning and the bombshell I never guessed. I am excited to see where her character heads next. I would have liked to know more of what happened to Josie and the abduction side maybe from the villain perspective just to get more of his POV and background of why he did it. I also loved that it had a small amount of spice in it, just one small scene. Overall I really liked this book and cannot wait for book 2.
If you love criminal procedural thrillers or series then this is the book for you.
June 17, 2025
My Name Is Emily Ray is the first book in the Special Agent Emily Ray series and it was absolutely PHENOMENAL. I loved every single second of it. It consumed me from start to finish. There was never a dull moment. The build up was amazing, the story was so good, the delivery was top tier and the procedural was very well developed. It was just impossible to put down. Of course the subject at hand is not an easy one, it is sad, emotional and traumatic, but I think the author did a really good job with it. The writing was great, not overly descriptive, but just enough so that you could grasp all the details and imagine the scenes in your head. This would make a perfect TV series.
I adored Emily, she was such a fierce FMC. She was strong, resilient and highly determined. I adored the character development, even if the novel is under 300 pages we get a lot of it and I truly applaud the author for that. I also loved that it wasn't drawn out unnecessarily, that the story wasn't padded with unnecessary fluff, everything had a purpose. It was cleverly written, expertly paced with a twist halfway that absolutely shocked me!
Overall, this was a stellar first novel in the series and I cannot wait to start the next book. It was an unputdownable read with a great plot, amazing characters and a highly entertaining storyline.
✨️Thank you to @netgalley, @stormpublishing & @micheledominguezgreene for my gifted ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I adored Emily, she was such a fierce FMC. She was strong, resilient and highly determined. I adored the character development, even if the novel is under 300 pages we get a lot of it and I truly applaud the author for that. I also loved that it wasn't drawn out unnecessarily, that the story wasn't padded with unnecessary fluff, everything had a purpose. It was cleverly written, expertly paced with a twist halfway that absolutely shocked me!
Overall, this was a stellar first novel in the series and I cannot wait to start the next book. It was an unputdownable read with a great plot, amazing characters and a highly entertaining storyline.
✨️Thank you to @netgalley, @stormpublishing & @micheledominguezgreene for my gifted ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 24, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️.💫 Review
My Name is Emily Ray is an emotional read that delves into identity, trauma, and resilience, with a protagonist whose voice feels raw and authentic. Michele Dominguez Greene thoughtfully explores themes of mental health and family secrets, and there are powerful moments where Emily’s pain and growth truly resonate.
However, while the story starts off strong, it begins to lose focus as it progresses. The pacing drags in places, and the emotional intensity can feel overwhelming at times. Several secondary characters are underdeveloped, and some plot points feel predictable or overly convenient.
Most notably, the direction the story went in the second half left me confused. Shifts in tone and plot felt abrupt, and certain developments lacked clarity or buildup. It felt as though the narrative lost its footing, which made it harder to stay engaged or emotionally invested by the end.
While the book has a meaningful message and a compelling lead, the execution doesn’t quite live up to its potential. It’s a worthwhile read for those drawn to heavy, character-driven stories—but be prepared for a narrative that doesn’t always stay on steady ground.
My Name is Emily Ray is an emotional read that delves into identity, trauma, and resilience, with a protagonist whose voice feels raw and authentic. Michele Dominguez Greene thoughtfully explores themes of mental health and family secrets, and there are powerful moments where Emily’s pain and growth truly resonate.
However, while the story starts off strong, it begins to lose focus as it progresses. The pacing drags in places, and the emotional intensity can feel overwhelming at times. Several secondary characters are underdeveloped, and some plot points feel predictable or overly convenient.
Most notably, the direction the story went in the second half left me confused. Shifts in tone and plot felt abrupt, and certain developments lacked clarity or buildup. It felt as though the narrative lost its footing, which made it harder to stay engaged or emotionally invested by the end.
While the book has a meaningful message and a compelling lead, the execution doesn’t quite live up to its potential. It’s a worthwhile read for those drawn to heavy, character-driven stories—but be prepared for a narrative that doesn’t always stay on steady ground.
March 5, 2025
I think this has potential to be a great new series about Special Agent Emily Ray tracking down kidnapped children. This case involves a young girl taken from a park whose case eerily mirrors Emily’s own from when she was kidnapped almost thirty years ago. I think the blurb gives too much away, which left me expecting more by the end of the story because I didn’t figure it would have been as obvious as it was. Which makes it hard, because there was a killer twist in the middle of the story, and I wanted to rave about it when I read it, but then after that, the remainder was too predictable.
The story’s well written, but I’m not sure I’d read another in this series if too much is revealed up front. And then it also bugged me that Emily kept certain secrets that she should have shared. That’s what makes me think there’s at least a sequel planned, because the character teases that maybe she’ll reveal that info sometime in the future. I don’t know, it just gives her integrity a hit.
Overall, I did enjoy the book and it would be worth a read to anyone that likes a good procedural.
The story’s well written, but I’m not sure I’d read another in this series if too much is revealed up front. And then it also bugged me that Emily kept certain secrets that she should have shared. That’s what makes me think there’s at least a sequel planned, because the character teases that maybe she’ll reveal that info sometime in the future. I don’t know, it just gives her integrity a hit.
Overall, I did enjoy the book and it would be worth a read to anyone that likes a good procedural.
March 6, 2025
4 Stars! Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the ARC of this book!
Special Agent Emily Ray is a part of an FBI unit focused on crimes against children. She is brought in to investigate the abduction of Josie Vance who was taken from a park in broad daylight and seemingly vanished without a trace. This case hits close to home because Emily Ray was abducted in a similar location, and under similar circumstances many years early. The story unfolds as you learn about Emily’s history through flashbacks as she tries to find this missing little girl.
I love a good page-turning mystery with unexpected twists. I felt like I was reading an episode of Law and Order: SVU as I made my way through this book. I finished it in under a day, because I couldn’t put it down. This is a strong start for the first book in the Emily Ray series, and I can’t wait to see what books follow this one.
Special Agent Emily Ray is a part of an FBI unit focused on crimes against children. She is brought in to investigate the abduction of Josie Vance who was taken from a park in broad daylight and seemingly vanished without a trace. This case hits close to home because Emily Ray was abducted in a similar location, and under similar circumstances many years early. The story unfolds as you learn about Emily’s history through flashbacks as she tries to find this missing little girl.
I love a good page-turning mystery with unexpected twists. I felt like I was reading an episode of Law and Order: SVU as I made my way through this book. I finished it in under a day, because I couldn’t put it down. This is a strong start for the first book in the Emily Ray series, and I can’t wait to see what books follow this one.
November 15, 2025
8/10
Solid kryminał. Może sprawa sama w sobie jest dosyć oczywista i nie ma tego szoku ale backstory Emily to nadrabia. Dawno nie byłam tak zmieszana co do morally gray postaci i nie wiem czy jestem po jej stronie. To było szokujące i przykre totalnie się nie spodziewałam kim ona jest. Cieszę się że widziałam tamtą opinie I zaczęłam od 1 książki a nie od arca. Szybko i nawet przyjemnie się czytało. Trochę zabrakło plot twistu ale było ok. The owl house mentioned ✊🏻
Solid kryminał. Może sprawa sama w sobie jest dosyć oczywista i nie ma tego szoku ale backstory Emily to nadrabia. Dawno nie byłam tak zmieszana co do morally gray postaci i nie wiem czy jestem po jej stronie. To było szokujące i przykre totalnie się nie spodziewałam kim ona jest. Cieszę się że widziałam tamtą opinie I zaczęłam od 1 książki a nie od arca. Szybko i nawet przyjemnie się czytało. Trochę zabrakło plot twistu ale było ok. The owl house mentioned ✊🏻
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 12, 2025
Wow the emotions that come with this book. I love FBI agent Emily Ray. She is strong and fearless and resilient. Reading her go through this case and how it was geared at her was just an emotional rollercoaster. I fully understand why she was acting the way she was. Honestly the twists that were in this story had my jaw on the floor. This was such a great thriller and I can't wait to see what the next book will be like.
July 8, 2025
✨ B O O K R E V I E W ✨
My Name Is Emily Ray by Michele Dominguez Greene
🎈Three girls were abducted at seven years old over the span of time. The latest abduction was that of Josie Vance, when she was taken from Cove Park, California. Special Agent Emily Ray heads the investigation. She has a fight in her to find these missing children like no other investigator. Why? Because she has first hand experience of knowing what Josie is going through. She too was abducted at the age of seven.
😟I found myself holding my breath while reading this story. Whether it is the mom in me presently or the young girl I used to be who once was worried about this same situation swirling in the news in the 70’s and 80’s, I was deeply connected to this novel. I felt the pressure of finding Josie. I felt the emotional roller coaster that Emily Ray experienced. The intense way her life was smothered because of her early childhood abduction was heartbreaking.
📖 This book is out for publication now. I am looking forward to reviewing Michele Dominguez Greene’s next book in the series, Haley Hope is Gone, which is coming out this month.
🫶🏻 Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for providing me a copy of this book in return for an honest review.
#mynameisemilyray #micheledominguezgreene #summerreading #bookstagram #readingrecommendations #bookreviewer #crimethriller
My Name Is Emily Ray by Michele Dominguez Greene
🎈Three girls were abducted at seven years old over the span of time. The latest abduction was that of Josie Vance, when she was taken from Cove Park, California. Special Agent Emily Ray heads the investigation. She has a fight in her to find these missing children like no other investigator. Why? Because she has first hand experience of knowing what Josie is going through. She too was abducted at the age of seven.
😟I found myself holding my breath while reading this story. Whether it is the mom in me presently or the young girl I used to be who once was worried about this same situation swirling in the news in the 70’s and 80’s, I was deeply connected to this novel. I felt the pressure of finding Josie. I felt the emotional roller coaster that Emily Ray experienced. The intense way her life was smothered because of her early childhood abduction was heartbreaking.
📖 This book is out for publication now. I am looking forward to reviewing Michele Dominguez Greene’s next book in the series, Haley Hope is Gone, which is coming out this month.
🫶🏻 Thank you to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for providing me a copy of this book in return for an honest review.
#mynameisemilyray #micheledominguezgreene #summerreading #bookstagram #readingrecommendations #bookreviewer #crimethriller
April 9, 2025
Full review coming on release day!!
I could not put this down! Such an easy read, I loved how fast paced this was, the plot was PLOTTING.
I could not put this down! Such an easy read, I loved how fast paced this was, the plot was PLOTTING.
May 19, 2025
I loved this book. It felt like I was reading an episode of Criminal Minds.
The story was fast pased and it kept you on the edge of your seat. I did predict the plot twist halfway through the book, but I was still shocked by it.
I can’t wait for the next book!
*A huge thank you to Storm Publishing and NetGalley for giving me a chance to review this book. The opportunity is greatly appreciated!*
The story was fast pased and it kept you on the edge of your seat. I did predict the plot twist halfway through the book, but I was still shocked by it.
I can’t wait for the next book!
*A huge thank you to Storm Publishing and NetGalley for giving me a chance to review this book. The opportunity is greatly appreciated!*
April 6, 2025
Release: May 27, 2025
Author: Michelle Dominguez Greene
Publisher: Storm publishing
Rating: 4 ★
My Name Is Emily Ray by Michele Dominguez Greene is a gripping and emotionally charged crime thriller that introduces us to FBI agent Emily Ray, who specializes in investigating child abductions. What makes Emily particularly compelling is her personal connection to the case—she herself was abducted as a child and held captive for years. Now, a mother and dedicated agent, Emily is drawn back to the past when a new case emerges that eerily mirrors her own abduction.
The story centers around the disappearance of a young girl named Josie Vance, and as Emily investigates, she is forced to confront her own trauma. The case brings flashbacks of her own kidnapping, and she begins to question whether the same person who abducted her all those years ago is responsible for Josie’s disappearance. As Emily’s PTSD and OCD symptoms resurface, the story becomes a race against time to save Josie while uncovering dark secrets about her own past.
Greene does an excellent job of creating suspense, with well-placed twists and red herrings that keep the reader on edge. The pacing is fast, and the emotional weight of the story—especially with its exploration of trauma, mental health, and the psychological effects of abduction—adds layers of depth to the plot. Emily is a strong, complex character, and her personal connection to the case makes her determination to solve it even more compelling.
The book is packed with unexpected twists that keep you hooked, and the story’s structure, which weaves in Emily’s flashbacks and current investigation, adds to the tension. The exploration of PTSD and OCD is handled thoughtfully and provides a unique perspective on how trauma can impact an investigator's ability to do their job.
While the book is a solid read with lots of suspense, some might find that the pacing slows down at times, particularly in the first half, and the ending might feel a bit rushed. But overall, the shocking twists, the heartbreaking moments, and the emotional payoff make this a memorable read.
If you're a fan of psychological thrillers with complex characters and high stakes, My Name Is Emily Ray is definitely worth picking up. I look forward to seeing where Emily’s story goes next and how her journey as both an agent and a survivor unfolds.
Summary
My Name Is Emily Ray follows FBI Special Agent Emily Ray, an expert in child abductions, as she investigates the disappearance of seven-year-old Josie Vance in Cove Park, California. Josie’s abduction eerily mirrors Emily’s own traumatic experience—she was abducted as a child and held captive for years. As Emily leads the search to find Josie, a disturbing clue surfaces: a drawing of a young girl in pink leggings, standing in front of a brick house, holding silver balloons—an image that ties directly to Emily's own captivity.
The discovery of a hair clip and a faded children’s book further intensifies the chilling realization that her abductor may still be alive. As Emily dives deeper into the investigation, she’s forced to confront the traumatic past she’s long buried. The case becomes more personal, as Emily not only races to save Josie, but also faces the terrifying possibility that the man who once destroyed her life has returned to do it all over again. Emily must confront her darkest fears and the scars of her past to stop him before it’s too late.
Favorite Quote:
"if you hide from death, you hide from life."
Author: Michelle Dominguez Greene
Publisher: Storm publishing
Rating: 4 ★
My Name Is Emily Ray by Michele Dominguez Greene is a gripping and emotionally charged crime thriller that introduces us to FBI agent Emily Ray, who specializes in investigating child abductions. What makes Emily particularly compelling is her personal connection to the case—she herself was abducted as a child and held captive for years. Now, a mother and dedicated agent, Emily is drawn back to the past when a new case emerges that eerily mirrors her own abduction.
The story centers around the disappearance of a young girl named Josie Vance, and as Emily investigates, she is forced to confront her own trauma. The case brings flashbacks of her own kidnapping, and she begins to question whether the same person who abducted her all those years ago is responsible for Josie’s disappearance. As Emily’s PTSD and OCD symptoms resurface, the story becomes a race against time to save Josie while uncovering dark secrets about her own past.
Greene does an excellent job of creating suspense, with well-placed twists and red herrings that keep the reader on edge. The pacing is fast, and the emotional weight of the story—especially with its exploration of trauma, mental health, and the psychological effects of abduction—adds layers of depth to the plot. Emily is a strong, complex character, and her personal connection to the case makes her determination to solve it even more compelling.
The book is packed with unexpected twists that keep you hooked, and the story’s structure, which weaves in Emily’s flashbacks and current investigation, adds to the tension. The exploration of PTSD and OCD is handled thoughtfully and provides a unique perspective on how trauma can impact an investigator's ability to do their job.
While the book is a solid read with lots of suspense, some might find that the pacing slows down at times, particularly in the first half, and the ending might feel a bit rushed. But overall, the shocking twists, the heartbreaking moments, and the emotional payoff make this a memorable read.
If you're a fan of psychological thrillers with complex characters and high stakes, My Name Is Emily Ray is definitely worth picking up. I look forward to seeing where Emily’s story goes next and how her journey as both an agent and a survivor unfolds.
Summary
My Name Is Emily Ray follows FBI Special Agent Emily Ray, an expert in child abductions, as she investigates the disappearance of seven-year-old Josie Vance in Cove Park, California. Josie’s abduction eerily mirrors Emily’s own traumatic experience—she was abducted as a child and held captive for years. As Emily leads the search to find Josie, a disturbing clue surfaces: a drawing of a young girl in pink leggings, standing in front of a brick house, holding silver balloons—an image that ties directly to Emily's own captivity.
The discovery of a hair clip and a faded children’s book further intensifies the chilling realization that her abductor may still be alive. As Emily dives deeper into the investigation, she’s forced to confront the traumatic past she’s long buried. The case becomes more personal, as Emily not only races to save Josie, but also faces the terrifying possibility that the man who once destroyed her life has returned to do it all over again. Emily must confront her darkest fears and the scars of her past to stop him before it’s too late.
Favorite Quote:
"if you hide from death, you hide from life."
June 8, 2025
|: My Name is Emily Ray.
By Michelle Dominguez Greene
Chapter 21 Page 145
Day Four: 10.35 am
5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
[ “Well you seem fine but with a blackout, I have to keep you overnight. I can't risk that it'll happen again when you're driving.”
“Do I have to stay a full twenty-four hours or is overnight good enough?” I asked. I had work to do and if my suspicions were accurate, I needed to be on my feet and ready for the biggest takedown of my life. Twenty-four hours in a hospital bed was not an option.
“It depends if you have another blackout episode or not. Lunch will be here soon, so I suggest you just get comfortable and rest. And I'd like to give you a mild sedative, just to calm you down.”
“No, I don't need that. I have work to do,” I protested.
“Work is the last thing you should be doing Ms Ray. Work is what landed you in here...” ]
Emily Ray is head of the FBI special CARD unit which does the hard job of searching and reuniting kids with their loved ones when they go missing.. It's a tough job which needs strong people to do it and Emily Ray is one of them people.
Her unique history allows her to delve into the recess of her mind where memories hide, places and feelings tread water and visions and outcomes falter. A mind no one else would understand.
When a seven-year-old little girl by the name of Josie, goes missing from a local park, Emily is called in but as she begins to work this case, the secrets she has locked up tight start to unwind and set themselves free and there is nothing she can do to stop it.
Despite having made a career out of trying to reunite families, the toll is beginning to mount up. She's not sure how much more of herself she can give, and when she is pulled off the case because of thoughts and feelings, showing up in a physical reaction on her body, she needs more than ever to concentrate and follow the case.
What is she missing? Are her real-life nightmares coming to life?
It doesn't matter. Josie needs her. And she is willing to do anything to get her back. Even revealing the one secret she has been harbouring most of her life.
This book was sensational. I was preparing myself for this story, knowing it's about child kidnapping and hard taboo subjects to talk about, I really, had to think twice about whether I was ready to read through something so harrowing. Especially as I had been reading nothing so heavy as this for a while. But… Wow!
What can I say? This book had everything in it and was packed full of adventure, horror, surprise and plot twists, from the beginning to the end. It was so thoughtfully planned out and there were no loose threads left hanging or niggling at the edges once the book ended. Creatively, it was amazing! I was on the edge of my seat the entire time, it was misleading, surprising and written with so much artistic flare. I'm so thrilled I got to read it.
A huge thank you to Michelle Dominguez Greene, Storm Publishing and Netgalley for the opportunity to read and relay my honest feedback. ::|
By Michelle Dominguez Greene
Chapter 21 Page 145
Day Four: 10.35 am
5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
[ “Well you seem fine but with a blackout, I have to keep you overnight. I can't risk that it'll happen again when you're driving.”
“Do I have to stay a full twenty-four hours or is overnight good enough?” I asked. I had work to do and if my suspicions were accurate, I needed to be on my feet and ready for the biggest takedown of my life. Twenty-four hours in a hospital bed was not an option.
“It depends if you have another blackout episode or not. Lunch will be here soon, so I suggest you just get comfortable and rest. And I'd like to give you a mild sedative, just to calm you down.”
“No, I don't need that. I have work to do,” I protested.
“Work is the last thing you should be doing Ms Ray. Work is what landed you in here...” ]
Emily Ray is head of the FBI special CARD unit which does the hard job of searching and reuniting kids with their loved ones when they go missing.. It's a tough job which needs strong people to do it and Emily Ray is one of them people.
Her unique history allows her to delve into the recess of her mind where memories hide, places and feelings tread water and visions and outcomes falter. A mind no one else would understand.
When a seven-year-old little girl by the name of Josie, goes missing from a local park, Emily is called in but as she begins to work this case, the secrets she has locked up tight start to unwind and set themselves free and there is nothing she can do to stop it.
Despite having made a career out of trying to reunite families, the toll is beginning to mount up. She's not sure how much more of herself she can give, and when she is pulled off the case because of thoughts and feelings, showing up in a physical reaction on her body, she needs more than ever to concentrate and follow the case.
What is she missing? Are her real-life nightmares coming to life?
It doesn't matter. Josie needs her. And she is willing to do anything to get her back. Even revealing the one secret she has been harbouring most of her life.
This book was sensational. I was preparing myself for this story, knowing it's about child kidnapping and hard taboo subjects to talk about, I really, had to think twice about whether I was ready to read through something so harrowing. Especially as I had been reading nothing so heavy as this for a while. But… Wow!
What can I say? This book had everything in it and was packed full of adventure, horror, surprise and plot twists, from the beginning to the end. It was so thoughtfully planned out and there were no loose threads left hanging or niggling at the edges once the book ended. Creatively, it was amazing! I was on the edge of my seat the entire time, it was misleading, surprising and written with so much artistic flare. I'm so thrilled I got to read it.
A huge thank you to Michelle Dominguez Greene, Storm Publishing and Netgalley for the opportunity to read and relay my honest feedback. ::|
June 2, 2025
All I can say is "WOW"!!!! This is a fantastic FBI Thriller that has you on the edge of your seat.
Emily Ray was kidnapped and held hostage at the age of 7. She remained in captivity for 8 years. Then she escaped and was reunited with her father. She spent her next years in therapy, and eventually graduated from college and worked her way up in the FBI CARD unit. She is happily married, with twin girls. She copes by having set and strict routines in her daily life. And she hunts down kidnappers of young children. One night she gets a call that a young 7 year old girl, Josie, has been abducted. This abduction happened in the same park that Emily had been abducted. As Emily gets her team together and begins investigating, Josie's parents receive a hand drawn picture in the mail. The drawing shows Josie in front of a house. The house number is the same house number that Emily was held captive. As the case continues, more drawings/letters began to appear, and Emily feel that this case is connected to what happened to her. With the clock ticking to save Josie, Emily finds that she is having a hard time convincing others on the team that there is a connection.
This was a fast paced, intense thriller that had me on the edge of my seat. There were many twists, and a lot of characters, but it was so well executed. The characters were very interesting, and I loved the portrayal of the relationship between Emily and her husband. I felt the author wrote Emily really well, showing the tentative balance she was holding between her job, her personal life, and her past trauma.
The puzzle pieces dropped throughout the story and came together in a shocking twist that I absolutely did not see coming! When this is revealed, it places the story on a whole new level of tension! I stayed up late and finished this in one day/night because I simply had to know how it all tied together, and the effect it would have on Emily and her family.
Although child kidnapping and abuse is at the core of this story, it is not detailed- but hinted at enough that the reader understands the whole picture. I wanted to warn readers of this as it might be a trigger.
I have never read anything by this author. I probably will not read the first in this series, as I usually tend away from child kidnappings. But, as the book ended, Emily might be moving in another direction. And if she does, i will happily continue reading this series to see where she goes.
Fantastic book- with a dark atmosphere, intelligent mystery and plausible ending!!!
Thank you to Storm Publishing and Storm Publishing for the ARC. This is my honest and voluntary review.
Emily Ray was kidnapped and held hostage at the age of 7. She remained in captivity for 8 years. Then she escaped and was reunited with her father. She spent her next years in therapy, and eventually graduated from college and worked her way up in the FBI CARD unit. She is happily married, with twin girls. She copes by having set and strict routines in her daily life. And she hunts down kidnappers of young children. One night she gets a call that a young 7 year old girl, Josie, has been abducted. This abduction happened in the same park that Emily had been abducted. As Emily gets her team together and begins investigating, Josie's parents receive a hand drawn picture in the mail. The drawing shows Josie in front of a house. The house number is the same house number that Emily was held captive. As the case continues, more drawings/letters began to appear, and Emily feel that this case is connected to what happened to her. With the clock ticking to save Josie, Emily finds that she is having a hard time convincing others on the team that there is a connection.
This was a fast paced, intense thriller that had me on the edge of my seat. There were many twists, and a lot of characters, but it was so well executed. The characters were very interesting, and I loved the portrayal of the relationship between Emily and her husband. I felt the author wrote Emily really well, showing the tentative balance she was holding between her job, her personal life, and her past trauma.
The puzzle pieces dropped throughout the story and came together in a shocking twist that I absolutely did not see coming! When this is revealed, it places the story on a whole new level of tension! I stayed up late and finished this in one day/night because I simply had to know how it all tied together, and the effect it would have on Emily and her family.
Although child kidnapping and abuse is at the core of this story, it is not detailed- but hinted at enough that the reader understands the whole picture. I wanted to warn readers of this as it might be a trigger.
I have never read anything by this author. I probably will not read the first in this series, as I usually tend away from child kidnappings. But, as the book ended, Emily might be moving in another direction. And if she does, i will happily continue reading this series to see where she goes.
Fantastic book- with a dark atmosphere, intelligent mystery and plausible ending!!!
Thank you to Storm Publishing and Storm Publishing for the ARC. This is my honest and voluntary review.
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