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Please Don't Find Me
My heart is hammering furiously as the bedroom door creaks open. The second I see my husband’s lifeless body hanging before me, I know I have to run. And no-one can ever find us.
There are three things I know to be true.
ONE. My husband knew my secret.
TWO. Now he’s dead, my daughter and I are in danger.
THREE. I will do anything to protect my child, whatever the cost.
We need to vanish. But first, it has to look like we were taken.
I move through our house, pushing over chairs and rummaging violently through drawers. I pull out items Robert and I bought together and throw them across the room. As a final touch, I leave Avery’s sneaker abandoned on the ground outside.
It’s important there’s no trace. But if I could leave a message behind, it would be this:
If you look for me, you won’t like what you find.
Content warning: This book includes the discovery of a suicide and the discussion and portrayal of suicidal ideation.
There are three things I know to be true.
ONE. My husband knew my secret.
TWO. Now he’s dead, my daughter and I are in danger.
THREE. I will do anything to protect my child, whatever the cost.
We need to vanish. But first, it has to look like we were taken.
I move through our house, pushing over chairs and rummaging violently through drawers. I pull out items Robert and I bought together and throw them across the room. As a final touch, I leave Avery’s sneaker abandoned on the ground outside.
It’s important there’s no trace. But if I could leave a message behind, it would be this:
If you look for me, you won’t like what you find.
Content warning: This book includes the discovery of a suicide and the discussion and portrayal of suicidal ideation.
312 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 22, 2025
626 people are currently reading
336 people want to read
About the author
Wendy Dranfield
21 books625 followersWendy is the author of the Detective Madison Harper series. Her novels and short stories have been shortlisted and longlisted for various writing competitions and awards, including the International Thriller Writer Awards.
Please note; as Wendy writes crime fiction, including police procedurals and psychological thrillers, her books contain plots, characters and actions dealing with a variety of crimes, including physical and psychological.
Wendy does not use social media, so if you find an account pretending to be her on any platform, it’s 100% fake! Visit her website for the most accurate and up-to-date information about her books: wendydranfield.co.uk
The final book in the Det. Madison Harper series will be out in May 2026.
Please note; as Wendy writes crime fiction, including police procedurals and psychological thrillers, her books contain plots, characters and actions dealing with a variety of crimes, including physical and psychological.
Wendy does not use social media, so if you find an account pretending to be her on any platform, it’s 100% fake! Visit her website for the most accurate and up-to-date information about her books: wendydranfield.co.uk
The final book in the Det. Madison Harper series will be out in May 2026.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews
May 31, 2025
Some people are born with the DNA to kill when they get anxious or don't get their way. Some learn it from others around them. Dranfield gives us a killer with a little bit of both, and in some strange way, I rooted for her to win. But I never expected all the side stories with former and current lovers and family members coming out of the woodwork. Great way to keep us in suspense.
May 3, 2025
4 Stars
Please Don’t Find Me is a dark, twisted thriller that grabs your attention from the very first page. Julia’s world shatters when she comes home to find her husband, Robert, has taken his own life, leaving their young daughter, Avery, alone with his body for hours. On the surface, they seemed like a happy family, but Julia knows the truth: Robert had been carrying the weight of her dark secret, and it ultimately destroyed him.
Just days later, Julia and Avery vanish, and it looks like an abduction; but nothing is as straightforward as it seems. Is Robert’s death tied to Julia’s secret? And what really happened to Julia and Avery?
This is a seriously messed-up story, but in the best way. Once the twists start to unfold, the guessing game fades, and what’s left is excitement. Wendy Dranfield crafts a charged thriller that keeps you hooked, even as the truth becomes increasingly disturbing.
Told in multiple POV, both in 1st and 3rd person, it can be read as a standalone novel. Overall, it was an enjoyable read and hope you enjoy it as well!
Thanks to Wendy Dranfield, Netgalley, and Bookouture for the advanced digital copy in exchange for an honest review. (Expected publication: May 22, 2025)
Please Don’t Find Me is a dark, twisted thriller that grabs your attention from the very first page. Julia’s world shatters when she comes home to find her husband, Robert, has taken his own life, leaving their young daughter, Avery, alone with his body for hours. On the surface, they seemed like a happy family, but Julia knows the truth: Robert had been carrying the weight of her dark secret, and it ultimately destroyed him.
Just days later, Julia and Avery vanish, and it looks like an abduction; but nothing is as straightforward as it seems. Is Robert’s death tied to Julia’s secret? And what really happened to Julia and Avery?
This is a seriously messed-up story, but in the best way. Once the twists start to unfold, the guessing game fades, and what’s left is excitement. Wendy Dranfield crafts a charged thriller that keeps you hooked, even as the truth becomes increasingly disturbing.
Told in multiple POV, both in 1st and 3rd person, it can be read as a standalone novel. Overall, it was an enjoyable read and hope you enjoy it as well!
Thanks to Wendy Dranfield, Netgalley, and Bookouture for the advanced digital copy in exchange for an honest review. (Expected publication: May 22, 2025)
April 14, 2025
What. A. Book.
As soon as you open it, you're surrounded by a sense that something isn’t quite right, and you know that Julia is going to make a disturbing discovery. You just don’t know exactly what yet. As you walk through the house with her, you feel the tension build until you finally find out what she discovers.
You empathize with her and her daughter, and it’s touching to see how concerned she is for her child.
BUT, as is often the case, nothing is what it seems...
The main character is cunning and manages to manipulate everyone around her to make herself look better and more innocent. On the other hand, she’s also a victim, desperately seeking help.
The story is perfectly put together, and the more you read, the more you want to keep reading. You get pulled in, and you have to keep up with the fast pace—whether you want to or not. And take it from me: you’ll want to!
You're thrown from left to right by the sharp, surprising, and fantastic twists.
I’ve read—no, devoured—many books by this author, and she has never disappointed me.
This is a gripping and toe-curlingly suspenseful book. Five stars just aren’t enough.
Thank you
As soon as you open it, you're surrounded by a sense that something isn’t quite right, and you know that Julia is going to make a disturbing discovery. You just don’t know exactly what yet. As you walk through the house with her, you feel the tension build until you finally find out what she discovers.
You empathize with her and her daughter, and it’s touching to see how concerned she is for her child.
BUT, as is often the case, nothing is what it seems...
The main character is cunning and manages to manipulate everyone around her to make herself look better and more innocent. On the other hand, she’s also a victim, desperately seeking help.
The story is perfectly put together, and the more you read, the more you want to keep reading. You get pulled in, and you have to keep up with the fast pace—whether you want to or not. And take it from me: you’ll want to!
You're thrown from left to right by the sharp, surprising, and fantastic twists.
I’ve read—no, devoured—many books by this author, and she has never disappointed me.
This is a gripping and toe-curlingly suspenseful book. Five stars just aren’t enough.
Thank you
June 12, 2025
Please Don't Find Me is an edge of your seat thriller that will keep you guessing until the end! Julia Bowers comes home from a spa trip to find a horrific scene in her home. Her husband is hanging from a beam in their bedroom and their 6 year old daughter is sitting on the bed in the same room. Robert is dead and it seems he killed himself. Why? They were happy, had a beautiful daughter, had a nice home, and a good job. Julia thinks he couldn't live with her secret and wanted out. Julia must protect Avery, their daughter, and goes on the run. She makes it look like someone broke in, that there was a struggle, and even leaves a few drops of blood to be convincing.
The police are called as a neighbor finds Robert and they think that an intruder has taken Julia and Avery. They put it all over social media, radio, and television with their pictures. What secret was so bad that Robert thought taking his own life was the best option? Why would he do such a thing with his daughter in the house? Are Julia and Avery in danger? Who is after them? When Julia's ex hears about her and her daughter missing, he feels like he has to help with the investigation. He's a cop on leave in another jurisdiction. He knows Julia's secret and thinks there might be more to this than the local cops know.
Please Don't Find Me takes you on a twisty ride and is told from different POV's and timelines. It worked well in this book and unfolded just enough information to keep you engaged throughout. The shocking twist at the end I did not see coming at all. I really enjoyed Please Don't Find Me by Wendy Dranfield and rate it 4 stars with a high recommendation. If you love a good thriller this is the book for you. Please Don't Find Me is available now and should be added to your TBR pile. I'd like to thank NetGalley and Bookouture for an advanced copy of Please Don't Find Me in exchange for a fair review. #PleaseDontFindMe
The police are called as a neighbor finds Robert and they think that an intruder has taken Julia and Avery. They put it all over social media, radio, and television with their pictures. What secret was so bad that Robert thought taking his own life was the best option? Why would he do such a thing with his daughter in the house? Are Julia and Avery in danger? Who is after them? When Julia's ex hears about her and her daughter missing, he feels like he has to help with the investigation. He's a cop on leave in another jurisdiction. He knows Julia's secret and thinks there might be more to this than the local cops know.
Please Don't Find Me takes you on a twisty ride and is told from different POV's and timelines. It worked well in this book and unfolded just enough information to keep you engaged throughout. The shocking twist at the end I did not see coming at all. I really enjoyed Please Don't Find Me by Wendy Dranfield and rate it 4 stars with a high recommendation. If you love a good thriller this is the book for you. Please Don't Find Me is available now and should be added to your TBR pile. I'd like to thank NetGalley and Bookouture for an advanced copy of Please Don't Find Me in exchange for a fair review. #PleaseDontFindMe
April 24, 2025
Loved it. Different to anything else I've read. I found myself wishing this was book 1 of a new series as I would follow Officer Scott Walker onto another book immediately! His character had a great arc in this and I need to see what he names the kitten!!!!!
I also loved following Julia's descent into madness and I could feel the confusion rising off her from the words on the page. She wants to be loved but she knows she's unlovable. Is it weird that i felt sorry for her along the way? More Scott Walker please. 5 stars.
I also loved following Julia's descent into madness and I could feel the confusion rising off her from the words on the page. She wants to be loved but she knows she's unlovable. Is it weird that i felt sorry for her along the way? More Scott Walker please. 5 stars.
May 4, 2025
Wow! Wendy Dranfield has pulled a blinder with this dark, dark thriller!
Julia returns home and instantly senses something is wrong. Her husband is dead with their young daughter sitting in the room with his body. He took his own life and Julia knows why; keeping her secret would be too much for anyone.
Julia is a fascinating and complex woman; I don't think I've ever come across a character like her in a book before. A psychopath with a conscience? Does such a person exist? I felt so much sympathy for her at times yet found her behaviour abhorrent. Officer Scott Walker is determined to find Julia and feels it's the least he can do after he walked away from her years ago, a decision that has haunted him since that day. He is a great character with lots going on and a heart of gold underneath his obvious anguish.
A brilliantly put together plot where nothing is as it seems. Another big winner!
5 ⭐️ Thanks to Netgalley, Wendy Dranfield and Bookouture, for an ARC in return for an honest review.
Julia returns home and instantly senses something is wrong. Her husband is dead with their young daughter sitting in the room with his body. He took his own life and Julia knows why; keeping her secret would be too much for anyone.
Julia is a fascinating and complex woman; I don't think I've ever come across a character like her in a book before. A psychopath with a conscience? Does such a person exist? I felt so much sympathy for her at times yet found her behaviour abhorrent. Officer Scott Walker is determined to find Julia and feels it's the least he can do after he walked away from her years ago, a decision that has haunted him since that day. He is a great character with lots going on and a heart of gold underneath his obvious anguish.
A brilliantly put together plot where nothing is as it seems. Another big winner!
5 ⭐️ Thanks to Netgalley, Wendy Dranfield and Bookouture, for an ARC in return for an honest review.
May 23, 2025
Blimey, I have never read a book by Dranfield, but on the merit of Please Don't Find Me I now need to consume her entire back catalogue...Yes, it was that good!
The pace is fast, frantic and the suspense was through the roof! One chapter in and I was obsessed! My poor Kindle took quite the beating!
It's told in first and third person from multiple POV. It's dark, super twisty and has some great characters...none of whom I could trust. There were secrets, lies and the tension waiting for them to be revealed, hit hard!
A fantastic gripping page turner.
Loved it!
The pace is fast, frantic and the suspense was through the roof! One chapter in and I was obsessed! My poor Kindle took quite the beating!
It's told in first and third person from multiple POV. It's dark, super twisty and has some great characters...none of whom I could trust. There were secrets, lies and the tension waiting for them to be revealed, hit hard!
A fantastic gripping page turner.
Loved it!
April 20, 2025
Wow! What a story. This has more twists and turns than a mountainous road! This psychological thriller is definitely one you won’t want to put down. Just when you think you might have things figured out, there’s another twist. I received a complimentary copy of this book and the opinions are my own.
June 30, 2025
Big thanks to Bookouture for a copy on Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Please Don’t Find Me is a moderate read with no real suspense or shocks.
My first reading experience with this author and while I thought it was ok, I will read another book by Wendy.
Julia arrives home to her husband who has taken his own life.
She decides to flee with her six year old daughter Avery.
Making the crime scene look like they were abducted.
Because Julia knows the real truth.
Enter her ex, policeman Scott who knows what Julia is like.
Determined to expose her and reveal her secret.
But true to form nothing is as it seems…..
I liked this one but didn’t love it or find it riveting, it just plodded along but enough for me to finish it.
A very dark and disturbing story with a bunch of sinister characters and a creepy atmosphere.
Please Don’t Find Me is a moderate read with no real suspense or shocks.
My first reading experience with this author and while I thought it was ok, I will read another book by Wendy.
Julia arrives home to her husband who has taken his own life.
She decides to flee with her six year old daughter Avery.
Making the crime scene look like they were abducted.
Because Julia knows the real truth.
Enter her ex, policeman Scott who knows what Julia is like.
Determined to expose her and reveal her secret.
But true to form nothing is as it seems…..
I liked this one but didn’t love it or find it riveting, it just plodded along but enough for me to finish it.
A very dark and disturbing story with a bunch of sinister characters and a creepy atmosphere.
May 13, 2025
PLEASE DON'T FIND ME BY WENDY DRANFIELD.
Release date set for the 22nd of May 2025.
Holy cow the ending of chapter 1.
Hooked from the get go.
This book has you gripped from the very beginning until the very end.
I thought the storyline/plot was really great.
Pageturner for sure.
This is my 1st book by Wendy and it won't be my last.
Release date set for the 22nd of May 2025.
Holy cow the ending of chapter 1.
Hooked from the get go.
This book has you gripped from the very beginning until the very end.
I thought the storyline/plot was really great.
Pageturner for sure.
This is my 1st book by Wendy and it won't be my last.
April 30, 2025
Please Don’t Find Me by Wendy Dranfield – A Gripping Page-Turner
It’s rare that I pick up a book and immediately feel the need to keep reading, but Please Don’t Find Me had me hooked from the start. Each chapter compelled me to do ‘just one more,’ making it hard to put down.
Mental health plays a significant role in the story, woven seamlessly into the struggles faced by each main character. Their challenges add depth to the plot, making them feel raw and real.
This was my first book by Wendy Dranfield, and I was thoroughly impressed. The storyline is well-crafted, filled with twists that kept me guessing.
The story kicks off with Julia Bowers returning home from a spa trip, only to make a horrifying discovery—her husband Robert is dead, and their six-year-old daughter Avery is sitting on the bed in the same room. Knowing she has to disappear, Julia stages an abduction, ensuring it looks like she and Avery were taken
Meanwhile, Officer Scott Walker, who once dated Julia before she married Robert, steps in to help. Although not officially part of the investigation, his past connection to Julia—and the secrets he knows—make him invested. One particular revelation surprises him: Julia never wanted children, yet here she is, protecting Avery at all costs.
April 29, 2025
Thanks to Netgalley.co.uk and Bookouture for a copy in return for an honest review...
Wendy Dranfield is once again totally brilliant. As with all her crime thrillers, the pace is electric, the characters are phenomenal, and the plot twists absolutely grab the reader.
There was so much suspense, so much drama, and so much excitement that I couldn't put it down! I've been resting today with a fluey/cold thing, and it was the perfect excuse to read non-stop until I'd finished - Not that I need much of an excuse to read anything this author produces - She is absolutely wonderful.
As always, I'm thrilled to be given the opportunity to review this story.
Wendy Dranfield is once again totally brilliant. As with all her crime thrillers, the pace is electric, the characters are phenomenal, and the plot twists absolutely grab the reader.
There was so much suspense, so much drama, and so much excitement that I couldn't put it down! I've been resting today with a fluey/cold thing, and it was the perfect excuse to read non-stop until I'd finished - Not that I need much of an excuse to read anything this author produces - She is absolutely wonderful.
As always, I'm thrilled to be given the opportunity to review this story.
May 1, 2025
Please Don’t Find Me is my first by Wendy Dranfield.
AMAZING!!! This was exactly the kind of book I love to read but it’s nothing like anything I’ve ever read before. It was absolutely amazing! The plot was fantastic and the writing was superb. It had all the twists and turns that I look for in psychological thrillers. I did not want to put this book down. It pulled me in from the very first page and had me flipping pages so fast to see what happened next. I definitely recommend this one.
Thank you Bookouture, NetGalley and of course Wendy Dranfield for allowing me to read this eARC.
AMAZING!!! This was exactly the kind of book I love to read but it’s nothing like anything I’ve ever read before. It was absolutely amazing! The plot was fantastic and the writing was superb. It had all the twists and turns that I look for in psychological thrillers. I did not want to put this book down. It pulled me in from the very first page and had me flipping pages so fast to see what happened next. I definitely recommend this one.
Thank you Bookouture, NetGalley and of course Wendy Dranfield for allowing me to read this eARC.
April 30, 2025
Thank you NetGalley & Bookouture for the ARC. This book was SO good.. I think I experienced just about every emotion reading this! It’s a page turner, so be prepared to not want to put it down. This is my first read by this author, but definitely won’t be my last 😊
April 21, 2025
This book had me gripped. Scott Walker's a great character and one I'd like to see more of. I was rooting for him the whole way through but also feeling sympathy for Julia which is surprising considering her actions. All the characters were believable and felt like real people. An unexpected emotional rollercoaster. Recommended.
May 7, 2025
After some time away, Julia comes home to her daughter sitting in the room with her deceased husband. The questions continue when Julia & her daughter disappear. Enter Scott — Julia’s ex boyfriend, determined to figure out where Julia is & to expose the truth.
I enjoyed the alternating chapters with different POVs. The characters were well developed, including the secondary characters.
Although described as a jaw-dropping & addictive thriller, I did not feel that this book was high stakes. I enjoyed the read, but as there was no true climax, I found myself absentmindedly flipping through pages.
Thank you to NetGalley & Bookouture for the eARC.
Publication Date: May 22, 2025
I enjoyed the alternating chapters with different POVs. The characters were well developed, including the secondary characters.
Although described as a jaw-dropping & addictive thriller, I did not feel that this book was high stakes. I enjoyed the read, but as there was no true climax, I found myself absentmindedly flipping through pages.
Thank you to NetGalley & Bookouture for the eARC.
Publication Date: May 22, 2025
April 18, 2025
Hooked from the first page! Emotional roller coaster that has you turning the page to find out what will happen next. 4 star thriller! Great read!
May 1, 2025
Stunning read! Fascinating plot, interesting characters, and a story that will take your breath away!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for this ARC!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for this ARC!
September 23, 2025
Wow—this one hooked me right from the start. The opening scene is already tense, and from there, it just keeps tightening the screws. You’re constantly second-guessing what you think you know, and every time you start to feel confident, a twist comes out of nowhere and leaves you reeling.
The characters feel real and complicated, not just thriller archetypes. Julia, especially, is layered—you feel her fear and her guilt, and at times you’re not even sure if you can fully trust her version of events. Scott, her ex and a cop on leave, adds another dimension: he’s flawed, struggling with his own demons, but determined to do what’s right. Even the side characters have enough depth to feel believable, which makes the stakes feel that much higher.
One of the strongest elements here is how Dranfield handles mental health. The book doesn’t treat it like a plot gimmick—it shows the different ways people experience and express their pain, trauma, and anxiety. It’s sensitive but still unflinching, and that makes the emotional weight of the story hit harder.
The pacing starts a little slower as the groundwork is laid, but once it takes off, it’s unputdownable. The atmosphere is tense without feeling overdone, and the reveals are timed just right to keep you invested without cheap shock value.
If you love psychological thrillers that balance suspense with real emotional depth, Please Don’t Find Me delivers. It’s gripping, twisty, and surprisingly heartfelt—a read that stays with you even after you’ve turned the last page.
The characters feel real and complicated, not just thriller archetypes. Julia, especially, is layered—you feel her fear and her guilt, and at times you’re not even sure if you can fully trust her version of events. Scott, her ex and a cop on leave, adds another dimension: he’s flawed, struggling with his own demons, but determined to do what’s right. Even the side characters have enough depth to feel believable, which makes the stakes feel that much higher.
One of the strongest elements here is how Dranfield handles mental health. The book doesn’t treat it like a plot gimmick—it shows the different ways people experience and express their pain, trauma, and anxiety. It’s sensitive but still unflinching, and that makes the emotional weight of the story hit harder.
The pacing starts a little slower as the groundwork is laid, but once it takes off, it’s unputdownable. The atmosphere is tense without feeling overdone, and the reveals are timed just right to keep you invested without cheap shock value.
If you love psychological thrillers that balance suspense with real emotional depth, Please Don’t Find Me delivers. It’s gripping, twisty, and surprisingly heartfelt—a read that stays with you even after you’ve turned the last page.
May 24, 2025
This book delivers a rollercoaster of emotions, leaving you questioning what you just read. Julia, a woman on the run with her six-year-old daughter Avery, is fleeing from a shocking discovery—her husband Robert’s suicide. But the reasons behind her escape run far deeper, delving into her dark and disturbing urges and resulting actions.
Julia’s actions are inexplicable, and the novel explores the reasons behind her behavior. But the story doesn’t stop there. Enter Officer Scott Walker, Julia’s ex-boyfriend, whose own disturbing reasons for breaking up with her years ago are revealed. His relentless pursuit of Julia becomes a central thread in the novel.
This haunting read takes you on a journey through Julia’s dark urges and the brutal extremes she goes through while on the run with Avery. It’s a shocking and compelling story that keeps you on the edge of your seat from the very beginning.
While it’s clear that Julia has dark urges, the novel also delves into Scott’s story. Even the deceased Robert has a voice, adding to the intensity of the read.
This fast-paced novel is thrilling from beginning to end. The question lingers: what is Julia’s story, and what is Scott’s? The book answers these questions and more, offering a unique and unexpected perspective. While the trigger warning at the opening of this book was warranted, it is most certainly worth the read. It’s a different and shocking experience that you won’t be able to put down.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Julia’s actions are inexplicable, and the novel explores the reasons behind her behavior. But the story doesn’t stop there. Enter Officer Scott Walker, Julia’s ex-boyfriend, whose own disturbing reasons for breaking up with her years ago are revealed. His relentless pursuit of Julia becomes a central thread in the novel.
This haunting read takes you on a journey through Julia’s dark urges and the brutal extremes she goes through while on the run with Avery. It’s a shocking and compelling story that keeps you on the edge of your seat from the very beginning.
While it’s clear that Julia has dark urges, the novel also delves into Scott’s story. Even the deceased Robert has a voice, adding to the intensity of the read.
This fast-paced novel is thrilling from beginning to end. The question lingers: what is Julia’s story, and what is Scott’s? The book answers these questions and more, offering a unique and unexpected perspective. While the trigger warning at the opening of this book was warranted, it is most certainly worth the read. It’s a different and shocking experience that you won’t be able to put down.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
April 28, 2025
Julia’s husband hung himself in front of their daughter while Julia was an away on vacation. Julia is the one that finds his body. Her ex boyfriend is a cop who also struggles with his own mental health issues. Just as he is about to end his life he becomes aware that Julia has gone missing with her own daughter after her husband’s death. He begins his own investigation and secretly works the case to find her because he knows exactly what she’s capable of. As the story continues we learn more about Julia and why she is the way she is and what has lead her become this way.
Each main character has their own set of challenges that involve mental health which was a huge part of the story. They also have detailed backgrounds. It does get heavy at times but still interesting and such an important thing to have representation of.
The final plot twist that was revealed was so shocking. It was the only plot twist that I didn’t see coming. The ending was good and everything tied up nicely. It makes sense why it ended that way and there had been hints throughout the story that this would be how it would end.
The majority of the story was predictable with no suspenseful and shocking twist which made it not that enjoyable as a I had hoped.
The only character I liked was Natalie.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Each main character has their own set of challenges that involve mental health which was a huge part of the story. They also have detailed backgrounds. It does get heavy at times but still interesting and such an important thing to have representation of.
The final plot twist that was revealed was so shocking. It was the only plot twist that I didn’t see coming. The ending was good and everything tied up nicely. It makes sense why it ended that way and there had been hints throughout the story that this would be how it would end.
The majority of the story was predictable with no suspenseful and shocking twist which made it not that enjoyable as a I had hoped.
The only character I liked was Natalie.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 17, 2025
Wow! Wendy Dranfield has turned the heat up with this book, and I was terrified yet invested in the story. Things move very quickly, but it takes little time before we meet characters in whom we will become invested.
We initially meet Julia Bowers when she returns home from an overnight spa trip to discover her husband’s death. Immediately listening to her internal flight mode settings, she feels the overwhelming need to escape with her daughter as she now fears their lives are in danger.
Next, we meet police officer Scott Walker, and it soon becomes clear that he is battling his own demons and is determined to die by suicide. His only concern is for the welfare of his chocolate Labrador, Maggie. Having left her with a friend, he is prepared to do the deed and be finished with his torment. When a phone call alerts him to his ex-girlfriend’s danger, he postpones his plans and sets out to offer his help.
I always avoid including spoilers, but I wanted to set the scene for the book. I may even say that this was the most surprising book by this author, and I gasped a couple of times while reading. The gradual reveal of more information was a little like water torture, as I had no clue where the next shock would come from.
Despite her character, I felt tremendous sympathy for Julia and hoped she would somehow find a way back to safety. Of course, Dranfield kept a tight rein on the story, and even more surprises were in store.
Scott was the original Boy Scout character, and it was almost impossible not to be drawn to him. His kindness and compassion were never in doubt, but learning more about his history with Julia created more questions than answers. His internal dialogue as he dug deeper into Julia’s background left me reeling, and I soon realised there would unlikely be a romantic reunion.
An absolute triumph of a book! Hopefully, my heart will soon stop racing.
We initially meet Julia Bowers when she returns home from an overnight spa trip to discover her husband’s death. Immediately listening to her internal flight mode settings, she feels the overwhelming need to escape with her daughter as she now fears their lives are in danger.
Next, we meet police officer Scott Walker, and it soon becomes clear that he is battling his own demons and is determined to die by suicide. His only concern is for the welfare of his chocolate Labrador, Maggie. Having left her with a friend, he is prepared to do the deed and be finished with his torment. When a phone call alerts him to his ex-girlfriend’s danger, he postpones his plans and sets out to offer his help.
I always avoid including spoilers, but I wanted to set the scene for the book. I may even say that this was the most surprising book by this author, and I gasped a couple of times while reading. The gradual reveal of more information was a little like water torture, as I had no clue where the next shock would come from.
Despite her character, I felt tremendous sympathy for Julia and hoped she would somehow find a way back to safety. Of course, Dranfield kept a tight rein on the story, and even more surprises were in store.
Scott was the original Boy Scout character, and it was almost impossible not to be drawn to him. His kindness and compassion were never in doubt, but learning more about his history with Julia created more questions than answers. His internal dialogue as he dug deeper into Julia’s background left me reeling, and I soon realised there would unlikely be a romantic reunion.
An absolute triumph of a book! Hopefully, my heart will soon stop racing.
May 22, 2025
Wendy Dranfield writes amazing psychological thrillers that will make you read in one go. Please Don't Find Me is another one of her latest works that will keep you up all night.
Julia Bowers returns home after a long spa and was horrified to discover her husband has committed suicide. She discovers a picture that he was holding and when she saw what he was holding, Julia immediately takes her daughter Avery and leaves the house. Meanwhile, Scott is a police officer and when he hears the news about Julia's sudden disappearance, he knows that something is up as he has dated Julia and knows what Julia is capable of.
This was an unputdownable and fast paced thriller. We get to know that Julia is in fact a psychopath with an addiction of killing people that she kidnaps her own therapist to help her to overcome the urge. There are so many twist and turns along the way and it really makes you feel like you are at the edge of the seat while reading this. The ending was quiet unexpected. Overall, I actually enjoyed reading this and looking forward to read more standalone psychological thrillers from Wendy Dranfield. Overall worth 4.5 stars.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the ARC. The review is based on my honest opinion only.
Julia Bowers returns home after a long spa and was horrified to discover her husband has committed suicide. She discovers a picture that he was holding and when she saw what he was holding, Julia immediately takes her daughter Avery and leaves the house. Meanwhile, Scott is a police officer and when he hears the news about Julia's sudden disappearance, he knows that something is up as he has dated Julia and knows what Julia is capable of.
This was an unputdownable and fast paced thriller. We get to know that Julia is in fact a psychopath with an addiction of killing people that she kidnaps her own therapist to help her to overcome the urge. There are so many twist and turns along the way and it really makes you feel like you are at the edge of the seat while reading this. The ending was quiet unexpected. Overall, I actually enjoyed reading this and looking forward to read more standalone psychological thrillers from Wendy Dranfield. Overall worth 4.5 stars.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the ARC. The review is based on my honest opinion only.
May 11, 2025
First of all, thank you NetGalley and the publisher for this arc in exchange for an honest review!
Wendy Dranfield delivers a jaw-dropping, pulse-pounding thriller in Please Don’t Find Me—a novel so gripping that five stars hardly feel like enough. From the first chilling sentence to the last shocking twist, this book had me completely hooked. I don’t think my jaw ever left the floor.
The story kicks off with a haunting discovery: a woman finds her husband dead and immediately knows she and her daughter are in danger. What follows is a desperate attempt to vanish without a trace—faking an abduction, leaving behind subtle clues, and running for their lives. Every moment crackles with tension, every chapter ratchets up the suspense, and just when you think you’ve figured something out, Dranfield throws in a twist that turns everything on its head.
The plot is masterfully constructed and absolutely relentless. It’s one of those rare thrillers where you're genuinely afraid to blink, because you might miss something crucial. The characters are incredibly well-drawn, especially the protagonist—a mother whose love and fear push her to extraordinary limits. I found myself completely invested in her journey, heart pounding right along with hers.
In short, this book is insane—in the best possible way. It's dark, shocking, emotionally raw, and totally unforgettable. If you love psychological thrillers that leave you breathless and constantly second-guessing what’s real, Please Don’t Find Me is a must-read.
Wendy Dranfield delivers a jaw-dropping, pulse-pounding thriller in Please Don’t Find Me—a novel so gripping that five stars hardly feel like enough. From the first chilling sentence to the last shocking twist, this book had me completely hooked. I don’t think my jaw ever left the floor.
The story kicks off with a haunting discovery: a woman finds her husband dead and immediately knows she and her daughter are in danger. What follows is a desperate attempt to vanish without a trace—faking an abduction, leaving behind subtle clues, and running for their lives. Every moment crackles with tension, every chapter ratchets up the suspense, and just when you think you’ve figured something out, Dranfield throws in a twist that turns everything on its head.
The plot is masterfully constructed and absolutely relentless. It’s one of those rare thrillers where you're genuinely afraid to blink, because you might miss something crucial. The characters are incredibly well-drawn, especially the protagonist—a mother whose love and fear push her to extraordinary limits. I found myself completely invested in her journey, heart pounding right along with hers.
In short, this book is insane—in the best possible way. It's dark, shocking, emotionally raw, and totally unforgettable. If you love psychological thrillers that leave you breathless and constantly second-guessing what’s real, Please Don’t Find Me is a must-read.
July 27, 2025
Please Don't Find Me is a good choice for a quick afternoon read It’s a fast paced thriller, starting off strong in the first chapter. It is told by multiple point of views, in the past and present. It is easy to follow along, but the story was unbelievable at times. I also personally did not find any character likable, so I felt I wasn't rooting for anyone.
Julia finds her husband Robert has committed suicide with their young daughter, Avery, in the home. Avery doesn't speak or go to school, which some neighbors found odd. Julia, Robert, and Avery seem like a perfect family, even though Julia is overly protective of their daughter., so what could lead to Robert taking his own life? When Julia and her daughter Avery disappear, the police wonder if they were taken or are on the run. As the police investigate Robert’s suicide, they now have to find Julia and Avery and one detective believes the mother and daughter know more than they led on.
Julia finds her husband Robert has committed suicide with their young daughter, Avery, in the home. Avery doesn't speak or go to school, which some neighbors found odd. Julia, Robert, and Avery seem like a perfect family, even though Julia is overly protective of their daughter., so what could lead to Robert taking his own life? When Julia and her daughter Avery disappear, the police wonder if they were taken or are on the run. As the police investigate Robert’s suicide, they now have to find Julia and Avery and one detective believes the mother and daughter know more than they led on.
May 21, 2025
When Julia arrives home from her spa day, she expects her husband Robert and daughter Avery to be waiting for her. When she steps into a quiet home, she knows something is wrong. She soon finds Robert hanging in the spare bedroom, with Avery sitting on the bed staring at him. Everything points to suicide. But when Julia and Avery disappear, everyone starts to suspect there is more to the story.
This was a fast-paced thriller, with every chapter leading you into a completely new directiok just when you think you know what's going on. It digs into the whole nature vs nurture debate, and whether homicidal tendencies are hereditary.
I'd love to see a sequel when Avery is older, and to see how her early childhood trauma plays out.
This is my first from this author, and I look forward to reading more.
This was a fast-paced thriller, with every chapter leading you into a completely new directiok just when you think you know what's going on. It digs into the whole nature vs nurture debate, and whether homicidal tendencies are hereditary.
I'd love to see a sequel when Avery is older, and to see how her early childhood trauma plays out.
This is my first from this author, and I look forward to reading more.
April 16, 2025
4 stars rounded up to 4.5
This book takes off the second you start reading. Julia comes home to find her husband dead and their little girl sitting on the bed in the same room as her husband. You immediately get the sense that Julia has secrets that her husband just couldn’t live with anymore. Julia and Avery go missing and soon a search is on to find them and Julia’s secrets will all come to light.
This book made me feel mad, sad, emotional, all the feels that you want from a book. This is a book that keeps you hooked and is page turner from the start! I am looking forward to reading more books by this author.
Thank you, Bookouture, for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
This book takes off the second you start reading. Julia comes home to find her husband dead and their little girl sitting on the bed in the same room as her husband. You immediately get the sense that Julia has secrets that her husband just couldn’t live with anymore. Julia and Avery go missing and soon a search is on to find them and Julia’s secrets will all come to light.
This book made me feel mad, sad, emotional, all the feels that you want from a book. This is a book that keeps you hooked and is page turner from the start! I am looking forward to reading more books by this author.
Thank you, Bookouture, for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
April 16, 2025
Thank you Bookouture and Netgalley for this ARC!
I have to admit that first, the story would go into a different direction with the hint of the secret Julia was having. Why she did not feel she would be safe staying in the house with gher daughter. Maybe that was why I was confused at first. But, it was still a good book and kept my attention enough all the time, making me want to know how it would end.
With every twist and turn, I have tried to guess what or whom would behind it. Sometimes I was wrong, sometimes I was right. The end certainly gave me a chill, and I was a bit reminded of the Inmate by Freida Mcfadden with the things going on with the child. Very much recommended!
I have to admit that first, the story would go into a different direction with the hint of the secret Julia was having. Why she did not feel she would be safe staying in the house with gher daughter. Maybe that was why I was confused at first. But, it was still a good book and kept my attention enough all the time, making me want to know how it would end.
With every twist and turn, I have tried to guess what or whom would behind it. Sometimes I was wrong, sometimes I was right. The end certainly gave me a chill, and I was a bit reminded of the Inmate by Freida Mcfadden with the things going on with the child. Very much recommended!
May 24, 2025
Amazing
So many twists and turns. A very unputdownable book. Don't plan on getting anything done. I've read all of Ms. Dranfield's books and every one is amazing. She does not disappoint.
So many twists and turns. A very unputdownable book. Don't plan on getting anything done. I've read all of Ms. Dranfield's books and every one is amazing. She does not disappoint.
June 1, 2025
Beautifully written. This was an amazing read. I very highly recommend this wonderful book to everyone. Five very deserving stars.
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