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Losing Lorelei

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“One mistake can save your life.”

Lori Leigh is a successful jewelry artisan, but her love life is a mess. Her live-in boyfriend, Kent, is more interested in making a movie than building their relationship. Thinking a fresh start might help, Lori persuades Kent to move to Las Vegas, where he can meet stars and she can reunite with her best friend, Elly, but it isn’t long before he’s spending more time in California than at home. With Elly happily married, Lori is lonely and looking for love.

When the women run out of gas during a day-trip in the desert, a mysterious stranger and his adorable dog stop to help. Lori is smitten by the handsome man’s looks, while Elly senses danger. She tries to warn her friend, but Lori is used to judging the world by appearances, and the guy is a definite hunk. Later, when Lori and the stranger meet again by chance, she makes an impulsive decision that might cost her life—and that’s only her first mistake.

Losing Lorelei is a story about how the past influences the future in more ways than we realize, especially when faulty assumptions and false pretenses cloud the truth. But most of all, Losing Lorelei is a story of redemption. Because, if you’re very lucky, one mistake can save your life.

256 pages, Paperback

Published August 12, 2025

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Emlynn McDermott

4 books20 followers

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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
Profile Image for P.B. Flower.
Author 6 books97 followers
August 26, 2025
A riveting tale of survival, emotionally and physically.

I started reading this one around 8pm. Big mistake! I stayed up till 1 am because I couldn't put it down. Lorelei had me hooked from page one. She is not your average protagonist. Her relatable insecurities and unknown strength set her apart. I felt her biggest strength, that flowered gradually, was realizing her needs/wants/desires with honesty.

The characters in Emlynn's story were not to be viewed with a black and white lens. They are like us. We make mistakes, we overshoot, we fall short. And so did Lorelei, Samuel, Becca and Kent. BTW, I loved Elly. She was a good friend and now I want someone like that in my life. She was such a pillar of support to Lorelei.

The plot of the story revealed slowly, bringing with it a stunning scenery that I could picture so vividly. Yes, there is more to Vegas than the dazzling artificial lights. The beauty in something dangerous and how even after being cautious one could go wrong was not just seen in the landscape but also with people. Lorelei was suspicious but still went ahead with the trip that got her in some serious trouble (can't say more without ruining the mystery!). Her will to beat the odds shone through when most of us would panic and go into a spiral. I know I would!

There was someone who gave Lorelei company in the deadly environs - Marzy Bar. First of all, such a cute name for a pup. Second, I loved how he didn't do anything magical, but only what came naturally to a dog and yet he played an important role in keeping Lorelei alive though her ordeal. I was glad Marzy wasn't there just for emotional hook. What a good boy!

Let me end this review with how I felt - satisfied (even when I stayed up late on a Sunday night!). When Emlynn could have ended the book where Lorelei's adventure concluded, she didn't. Instead, she took the time to tie in the loose ends and let the readers gather their thoughts around the suspicious characters and Lorelei. Heck even Kent! Can I just hate him without any prejudice? I think I will, thank you very much!

If you are looking for a book that is well written, wonderfully evolved, and with characters that will stay with you long after you finish the book, then this one is for you. It has drama, adventure, and emotions. Losing Lorelei (sigh)... I cannot recommend it enough!
Profile Image for Bethany.
562 reviews7 followers
September 3, 2025
There's always a lesson or two from a book by Emlynn. This was my favourite one.

Lori's life has taken a bit of a knock. Single and in need of a fresh start, she doesn't take much convincing to join a handsome man named Samuel on a trip into the desert. He's got a cute dog too! Her friend isn't too sure about the quick jump into this adventure though, but Lori is head strong. Something we continue to learn throughout this book. But is the adventure a mistake?

Emlynn does such a fantastic job of setting the scene. And I think she should consider writing a thriller because some parts of this were tense and unsettling. I certainly don't want to be giving away any spoilers because this is deffo a book you've just got to read and find out for yourself. Also, the descriptions of the settings were beautifully done.

I once went on a course where something the chap said stayed with me forever. "There's nothing wrong with your first thought, it's how you choose to react to it."
And that's Emlynn's books. It's so easy to judge someone and that might not be a bad thing sometimes depending on the situation, but these books prove that you have to learn someone's personality and honest intentions before you truly know who they are. It also teaches the power of forgiveness. Do we define a person by one mistake or one action?

Although sometimes... It's not always about discovering other people. It can be about discovering yourself. Because losing yourself may be the only way to find yourself. Lori goes on one big journey to do this.

One bit made me cry. It got me right in the feelings! It was such a powerful moment of emotion though and described so vividly. I think that moment will stay with me the most.

Again, it's hard to review without spoiling so please: give it a read. You'll learn something. Not just about Lori and these people, and these situations, but perhaps something about yourself.
Profile Image for Jamie Fry.
Author 7 books87 followers
December 19, 2025
I loved this book!
I tried to take my time with this one, to savor it, but that was nearly impossible, especially about halfway through when certain events unfolded, making it hard to put down. I don’t want to say much for fear of spoilers, but I will say that I enjoyed this story very much! I loved the vivid descriptions, the attention to detail, the character development, and of course, Marzy Bar!
This book gave me all the feels, and I will be thinking about this one for a while. If you’re looking for a gripping read that combines self-discovery with elements of suspense and redemption, this one is it!
1 review
August 4, 2025
Losing Lorelei was a delightful read for me. The friendship between the two primary female characters, Lorelei and Elly, feels real, with conversation that shows their individuality along with their connection. I think a lot of readers will easily relate to Lorelei, who is trying hard to make her relationship with her boyfriend work while gradually realizing that it might be time to move on.....and there just happens to be an attractive man nearby, offering a fresh adventure.
McDermott incorporates interesting enhancements to the story, like bits about the art of making silver jewelry, knowledge about the natural features of the environment around Las Vegas, and some useful desert survival tips. As a bonus, there is a charming canine companion to add to the 'heart' of the plot.
I especially liked the way the story ended, which was satisfying without being predictable. I'm happy to recommend this book.
Profile Image for Lili Raphaelson.
11 reviews
October 4, 2025
Set against the backdrop of Las Vegas and the stark beauty of the surrounding desert, this layered novel blends emotional depth, suspense, and a dash of unconventional romance. The cast runs the gamut of figures we are familiar with — an artisan at a crossroads, a self-absorbed boyfriend, a handsome stranger, a steadfast friend, a woman burdened by emotional baggage, and a scene-stealing dog — but Emlynn McDermott brings them to life with the kind of nuance and heart that makes them fresh. Every character is relatable, even the ones you want to dislike! With humor and hope popping up when you least expect them, the novel becomes an exploration of risk, trust, and the courage it takes to face what lies within and ahead when you’re the last (wo)man standing. If you’re looking for a read that will anchor you one moment and knock you slightly off-balance the next, you’ve found it.

Profile Image for H.M..
Author 1 book3 followers
August 12, 2025
I haven't read many women's fiction novels, but this one was a little different than the typical that I've considered reading. And I devoured it in 3 days.

Lorelei is a fine jewelry artist who moves to Las Vegas with her (somewhat estranged) boyfriend to be closer to her best friend. But in the process she learns not only about herself, but about trusting people, including those she has just met.

Survival is the theme of this story. And what better place to learn than the blazing hot Las Vegas desert beside a cute puppy dog and a hot dude who turns out to be a bit of a narcissist? My red flags went up pretty quickly on him and all I wanted was for Lori to get the eff away from him!

This book moved in a quick, unputdownable way that I really enjoyed. And you can absolutely tell the author knew her way around the Vegas desert area. Thank you again to Emlynn for choosing me to receive an ARC.
Profile Image for Marianne Crichton.
Author 2 books17 followers
August 16, 2025
I don’t want to say too much and spoil the story for others, suffice to say I changed my mind so many times as to who was a ‘baddy’ and who was a ‘goody’. But one thing was never in doubt…Marzy Bar the canine star is adorable.
A thoroughly enjoyable read, which kept me turning the pages to find out more.
Profile Image for Leigh Dunlap.
Author 1 book70 followers
February 11, 2026
This book had so many elements that I love. Las Vegas. Jeeps. Cool dogs. Women fighting to prove their worth. People doing the wrong thing. People doing the right thing. It's a suspenseful journey into the desert outside Las Vegas with characters with unknown motives and a heroine fighting for survival.

A page turning adventure!
Profile Image for Gina Engman.
Author 2 books8 followers
February 5, 2026
Losing Lorelei is a fantastic book, very well written. I especially enjoyed the way McDermott describes the desert landscape and the events that took place (no spoilers!). It felt like I was there in the sweltering heat and dry sandy desert. I probably won't be visiting deserts anytime soon though after this book!

The characters are so well rounded, especially Lori and her best friend Elly. Samuel was also compelling and interesting, but I won't say too much there, go read it and find out more about him and his friend Becca.

Both a mystery and a study of relationships, as well as a dive into knowing yourself, this book was a great read!
Profile Image for Bibiana Krall.
Author 34 books199 followers
August 21, 2025
Losing Lorelai by Emlynn McDermott is a terrifying glimpse into the old adage--don’t talk to strangers.

This novel reveals a life-affirming friendship between Lorelai (in a relationship, super creative, free spirit) and Elly (happily married, grounded, empathetic and wise) who are living in the non-touristy part of Las Vegas. They both enjoy: nature hikes, authentic conversation and creative endeavors… their shared experience becomes an important lifeline after one of them makes a really bad decision.

Intuition is so important. Do you use yours?

Walking into a situation blind, Lorelai eventually has to face the raw truth, and in that fateful moment, something powerful and ancient kicks in that she was actively ignoring before.

Perhaps that spark boils down to believing in herself and knowing the depth of her own power?

There are lots of wonderful themes any reader would appreciate: love, friendship, the sharp pain of romantic relationships when they aren’t what we hope them to be, ghosts of the past that haunt our present and so many more.

I refuse to give spoilers, but I will say this… the imagery and mental anguish portrayed when the heat is on was so accurate it makes you think twice about the vast difference between an adventure, and going in blind.

The ending spoke to me on a deep level about resilience, who we become after the hardest lessons and it offered hope for the future. If you enjoy stories about realistic women and the enormous issues they face in our modern world, you will devour this book like I did.

Always carry water in the desert, and take Marzy Bar (the cutest dog on the planet) with you.

I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book and enjoyed it so much I stayed up late to finish it.
34 reviews2 followers
December 24, 2025
There’s a lot to be said about intuition. We may choose to follow it , or ignore it. Sometimes it can be life saving. When Lorelei takes a journey to the desert, following a stranger, Samuel, she has to trust that inner voice. McDermott’s writing is descriptive and detailed, and I learned a thing or two about jewellery making and the dangers of the desert! To weave in real life experience into a novel without becoming too technical and descriptive requires skill - something McDermott has. The characters are well developed, including the charming pup, Marzy Bar. Not giving away too much, as I don’t want to spoil the read for you, this was an easy and enjoyable read. Well done McDermott!
Profile Image for Patricia Furstenberg.
Author 57 books145 followers
September 23, 2025
One mistake, one reckless choice and, suddenly, Lori Leigh’s carefully balanced life teeters on the edge of danger. McDermott crafts a taut, atmospheric novel where the blistering Mojave desert mirrors the heat of human impulse. Lori, a free-spirited artisan and Elly, her grounded, intuitive friend, embody the fragile dance between heart and reason, between attraction’s dazzle and the quiet warning of instinct.
What begins as a story of friendship quickly deepens into a chilling reminder that appearances deceive, strangers conceal more than they reveal and redemption sometimes comes wrapped in terror. McDermott’s prose is alive with desert sun and shadow, each page steeped in unease, yet lit by the fierce bond between two women who must navigate love, loyalty, and, well, survival.
"Losing Lorelei" is equal parts suspense and reflection, a haunting parable about intuition, mistakes, and the saving grace of friendship. Highly recommended.
Profile Image for Kim Evans.
Author 9 books16 followers
July 1, 2025
When Lori's relationship breaks down with Kent, Lori is tempted to take up the helpful stranger, Samuel's, offer of a road trip with him, Becca and Marzy Bar, Samuel's dog, despite reservations from her best friend Elly.
Lori decides to take a risky break from her jewellery making and takes a chance on a Samuel. With her emotions taking control Lori agrees to go and almost instantly regrets her decision.
Lori has a lot to learn about survival in the desert and she has to do it quickly, despite basic directions from Samuel.
Showing a blend of vulnerability and strength in her journey it's a story of mixed emotions for Lori.
I don't want to give too much away. Take the journey with Lori and pick up a copy when it's released.
Profile Image for D.S. Marquis.
Author 2 books116 followers
November 18, 2025
Losing Lorelei by Emlynn McDermott is a realistic suspenseful survival story about the harshness and beauty of the Mohave Desert, and an innately human story about the power of healing through the acceptance of the bitter with the sweet in life. Meet Lorelei, a brand jewelry designer in her mid-thirties, who combs the desert for exotic and rare plants to serve as engravings. Grieve, venture, love and heal with her and her old friends and new ones - some trustworthy, some not so much.

There is so much to love about this book - foreshadowing, suspense, detailed description. I love the spotlight on the universal truth that in times of need, we call on our mothers. Beautifully crafted, Losing Lorelei is a book for readers of all ages!
2 reviews
August 21, 2025
Emmy loves the outdoors and lived in the southwest, so this novel about two friends in the Las Vegas area is perfect. Lori is unsettled in her relationship with her partner, but Elly is happily married. After they meet a helpful handsome stranger, Lori sets off on an adventure with people she shouldn't trust. Thankfully her friend helps her escape a dangerous situation. In the process, Lorilei or Lori Leigh is finding her authentic self and learning lessons about true friendship. I am so honored to have Emmy as a true friend.

Dianne Leigh
Profile Image for Gina R. Briggs.
Author 10 books29 followers
August 7, 2025
"One mistake can save your life."

After reading Losing Lorelei, and knowing what that means... I have chills, but for different reasons than I did at first. As I'm beginning to learn with McDermott, there is so much more than what meets the eye. I was expecting a slow-burn thriller in the desert. I expected to be pulled in immediately--The Dark Side of the Wall was immediately compelling as well. I expected to feel a kinship to the characters---again, I connected with several characters in the other novel I read by McDermott. I suppose what pleasantly surprised me was how layered a character Lori was, AND how I was so invested in her outcome. Without giving away too much, I'll say there is a sizable chunk of the book where it's just Lori. Few authors, I think, can pull that off. But McDermott is a master at third person introspection. I felt as though I knew Lori inside and out. I watched her grow from naïve to empowered. She is a character you will want to champion.

Losing Lorelei hits all the marks for a women's fiction read. There's a strong female protagonist who goes on a personal journey (and in this case, also a literal adventure), and her relationships evolve as a result. Every woman will either personally relate to Lori's situation with her boyfriend and the new, mysterious stranger, or it will remind them of a friend. Every characters' motivations are so crystal CLEAR. Oftentimes, in a thriller, you see a lot of characters making dumb decisions just so the author can throw them in the middle of a narratively pleasing predicament. In this case, I understood Lori. That is all because McDermott made me care.

I could honestly rant about all the symbolism (don't get me started on the drops of blood, water, etc, etc!!) but I think those details would make for excellent book club discussions. This novel would make for a rousing book club choice! (Hey, Reese Witherspoon! Hello, Jenna Bush!! I’ve got one for you!) I can already hear readers debating Lori’s decisions.

The last thing I'll praise McDermott on is the way she wraps up a story without beating the reader over the head with its theme. Her use of imaginary was gorgeous. I appreciated knowing what happens in the aftermath of the main action (a rare treat we don't often get in novels that have a thriller bent).

I was lucky to receive an advanced copy of Losing Lorelei. My opinions are my own. And my opinion is: READ THIS BOOK!
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews