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What Goes Around

A Nashville homicide detective makes a chilling connection between her past and a series of unspeakable crimes in a gripping novel of psychological suspense by USA Today bestselling author Debra Webb.

When Detective Olivia Newhouse finds evidence of foul play at the home of Carl Fanning, a pedophile recently released from prison, she suspects the motive is revenge.

But as she interviews Fanning’s past victims, Olivia is stricken with severe migraines, blackouts, and the gut instinct that something bad is coming. Then there are the muddy clothes she doesn’t remember wearing, the injuries she can’t explain, and the hours of lost time…

As she races to locate Fanning, Olivia is further shaken to discover that her late father, a psychiatrist, had been visiting him in prison for years. She knows the connections are buried somewhere in her lost memories—but can she survive the truth?

Revised Previously published as There Once Was a Child, this edition of What Goes Around includes editorial revisions.

235 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 30, 2026

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About the author

Debra Webb

578 books2,546 followers
DEBRA WEBB is the USA Today bestselling author of more than 180 novels, including reader favorites the Finley O'Sullivan and Devlin & Falco series. She is the recipient of the prestigious Romantic Times Career Achievement Award for Romantic Suspense as well as numerous Reviewers Choice Awards. In 2012 Debra was honored as the first recipient of the esteemed L. A. Banks Warrior Woman Award for her courage, strength, and grace in the face of adversity. Recently Debra was awarded the distinguished Centennial Award for having achieved publication of her 100th novel.

With more than ten million books in print in numerous languages and countries, Debra’s love of storytelling goes back to her childhood when her mother bought her an old typewriter in a tag sale. Born in Alabama, Debra grew up on a farm. She spent every available hour exploring the world around her and creating her stories. She wrote her first story at age nine and her first romance at thirteen. It wasn’t until she spent three years working for the Commanding General of the US Army in Berlin behind the Iron Curtain and a five-year stint in NASA’s Shuttle Program that she realized her true calling. A collision course between suspense and romance was set. Since then she has expanded her work into some of the darkest places the human psyche dares to go. Visit Debra at www.debrawebb.com.

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5 stars
367 (44%)
4 stars
295 (36%)
3 stars
124 (15%)
2 stars
22 (2%)
1 star
11 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
Profile Image for Vickie.
2,419 reviews81 followers
July 18, 2026
Debra Webb’s first edition of this book called Once Upon a Child is my favorite book of all time that she has written. So when given the opportunity to listen to the audiobook, a newly revised edition, I was all in. I am so glad that I got the chance to listen to and compare the changes in the two since I had the original version in front of me. All of the revisions make the book even better, if that is even possible. The twists had my head spinning, even though I knew what was coming. The story of a police detective Olivia and her partner Walt as they try to track down what happened to pedophile and disgusting excuse of a human being Fanning is nothing short of brilliantly executed. The two detectives follow the clues to the victims, uncovering more truth and laying the foundation for a compelling story. Olivia’s engagement to Daniel is almost like an after-thought but becomes more important as the story progresses. There are several subplots, including Olivia’s adoption, the fact that her father was a famous psychologist, and the backstory about Walt that is gut-wrenching. All of these play together to make a well-crafted story that tugged on my heartstrings as well as stimulating my imagination to wonder what would I do in similar circumstances. This is a thought-provoking and deeply emotional novel about people’s choices and how their choices affect what others do. Fascinating, engaging and insightful, this book has a propulsive pace with gritty and believable drama along with a relatable cast of characters. The narrator of the audiobook did a fantastic job of emoting the action into her words, carrying me quickly to the scene and skillfully written plot.
I voluntarily received an audiobook version of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own.
Profile Image for Janeal.
193 reviews1 follower
July 15, 2026
This book was so unpredictable. I did not see the truth in its entirety until the very end. I am so blessed to be able to read this book and review it for Debra Webb.

The characters stay with you long after you finish reading. The twists make you change your impression on characters as you read, until you aren't sure of anything anymore.

A wonderful read that is exceptionally written and keeps you reading.
64 reviews
July 11, 2026
I ABSOLUTELY LOVE this story!!! I never expected how it ended!! AMAZING Job Deb!!!
Profile Image for Brittni Wonsavage.
73 reviews
August 24, 2026
Trigger Warning: child SA.
I wish I would have known that before I read it. I have no idea why this has over a 4 star rating.
Not for me at all.
Profile Image for Maureen ~Bitch Can Write A Book.
1,615 reviews35 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
June 11, 2026
First let me say...

My mind is blown! 💥💥💥

I feel like a broken record, every single time I read a book by this author I think WOW...that was her best. These characters...etc.

Then I move on to her next and 💥💥💥

I have to say that I did figure it out fairly early but knowing what I thought I knew didn’t matter. This book had me sitting on the edge of my couch. It kept me turning the pages non stop. I tried to put it down to do anything to prolong this book. But I kept going back. I read it in a matter of a couple hours. And as I sit here I’m just floored.

Debra Webb is a master...read it again. A MASTER in this genre. She writes a gripping novel, with characters that you either love or hate but she sucks you in. You feel, you walk in the characters shoes. You are absolutely riveted by the story. You cringe at the depravity of the villain. You cry for the victim...the hero and heroines make you cheer. And damn skippy does she write a strong female lead!

This book is EPIC. It’s dark, it delves into depravity at its worst and it lifts you up with the knowledge that the human spirit can triumph.

If you are a fan of dark, twisted, gripping mysteries. YOU MUST READ! And even though this is a dark read, it is also a book that stays with you long after you finish because the human spirit endured and can even move on after tragedy. AND flourish. And for me...it hit a special cord. Because...flourish I have.

What Goes Around was first released as There Once Was a Child, but after a total revision and newly added scenes it’s a new and heart pounding thriller. (2018)
Profile Image for Sarai Mulvey.
221 reviews5 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
June 20, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and Brilliance Publishing for the advanced listening copy.

What Goes Around was a dark, twisty thriller that kept me hooked from start to finish. Detective Olivia Newhouse is investigating the disappearance of a recently released convicted pedophile when strange events begin happening in her own life—blackouts, unexplained injuries, and missing time. As the investigation unfolds, Olivia discovers shocking connections to her late father and a past she can't fully remember.

This story is packed with twists, multiple points of view, and plenty of suspense. The pacing was excellent, and I was never bored. Every new revelation raised more questions, and I genuinely didn't see the final twist coming.

I also loved the partnership between Olivia and Walt. Their father-daughter dynamic added warmth and heart to an otherwise dark and disturbing story. Be sure to check trigger warnings, as some of the subject matter is heavy.

The audiobook narrator did a fantastic job, giving each character a distinct voice and making the story even more immersive.

This was not my first book by Debra Webb, and it definitely won't be my last. A gripping thriller that will keep mystery fans guessing until the very end.
Profile Image for Lacy.
258 reviews12 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
June 27, 2026
🕵️‍♀️ ALC Review 😲'

Debra is a prolific author, but I've never picked up one of her books. I am *so* glad I read this one! I'll be picking up more by her for sure. 🤓

The dynamics of the detectives' partnership was really enjoyable. The personal backgrounds developed progressed the story and deepened the way I felt about them. They have a special relationship.

The case and how it progressed over time and with Liv herself was so captivating. Fanning was - such an enraging character and I was sooooo behind figuring out how to put him away.

When the family connection came in, though. I just - was flabbergasted. 👏

Narrated by the amazing Victoria Connolly it's an audiobook listen for sure! You *could* read the book, but...you'd be missing some great narration. Happy June Audiobook month!!

If you like detective partnerships, psychological thrillers, or a detective's personal involvement with a case, you may like this book.

This comes out June 30th!! So, if you like a psychological thriller, check this one out.

Triggers: Murder, (Reference, not active) Pedophilia, Grief, Trauma

I received this audiobook for review from Netgalley. The thoughts and opinions above have been given freely.
Profile Image for Kirsten Clason.
89 reviews1 follower
June 23, 2026
We follow Detective Olivia Newhouse, a homicide detective in Nashville who’s used to dealing with the worst kinds of crimes along with her partner, Will Price. Will is much older than Olivia, but they are very close. Will is kind of like a dad figure in her life as she’s recently lost her father.
Olivia and Will’s latest case starts when a recently released predator becomes connected to something suspicious—possibly revenge-driven. At first, it feels like a standard investigation.But almost immediately… things feel off.
As Olivia begins interviewing victims and digging into the case:
She starts getting intense migraines, blakouts, and has entire chunks of time she can’t account for.
And it gets worse. She finds Injuries she doesn’t remember getting,Dirt and evidence on her clothes she can’t explain and a growing sense that she may have been somewhere… doing something… she can’t remember.
I was not a fan of her fiancé, Nate, at all. He is super insecure and is constantly whining about her being gone all the time, even though he knows her job is her passion.
I really liked this one a lot! Do many twists and turns! Excellent read in my opinion.
Thank you Netgalley and Thomas Mercer for this AlC in exchange for an honest review. This releases June 30th!
Profile Image for Renee Simmons.
612 reviews63 followers
August 10, 2026
So many twists and so many scenarios. Detective Olivia Newhouse and her partner Detective Walter Duncan are called to the home of Carl Fanning, after he is obviously missing. Carl , recently released from prison after being offered a plea bargain. The things he did were enough to keep him in prison for life, but now he has been released and is missing. The thought is that one of his victims had sought revenge. The other scenario was that he has kidnapped someone else and is carrying on the same as before prison. But since two blood types were found at the scene, they know two people are involved. This book had me guessing and then guessing again and I did not see that coming. I love that there were so many suspects and so many twists, turns and secrets and I love the relationship between Olivia and Walt. He is like a father to her and they both love each other as family. This is definitely an thriller that kept me on the edge of my seat ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
432 reviews18 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
June 7, 2026
This was such an emotional read that keeps you engaged from the start. This is told in the first person character with many twists and turns and a surprising ending. This one had me kept guessing and was surprised in the end. Joseph Fanning kidnapped and abused many kids. He was recently released from prison and has gone missing. Detective Olivia Newhouse and her partner, Walt Duncan, have a duty to find him. You are taken inside the minds and thoughts of the characters and of ‘The Child’. Olivia and Walt both are having their own personal issues to deal with, all the time vowing to themselves not to let their partner down, especially when they need them the most. This was so heartbreaking but an enjoyable, emotional read. Thank you, Debra Webb, NetGalley and the publisher for my honest opinion.
Profile Image for BookForAHeart.
386 reviews28 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
June 27, 2026
📚🖤 What Goes Around by Debra Webb is a dark and intense read that delves into psychological suspense and hidden trauma. Detective Olivia Newhouse's investigation into a series of disturbing crimes reveals unsettling connections to her own past. 🔪🧠

The story explores themes of revenge, secrets, and the fragile line between sanity and madness. Olivia’s migraines, blackouts, and moments of lost time add a haunting layer to the narrative, making it difficult to trust what’s real. The revelation about her late father's relationship with the suspect adds a disturbing and emotional depth to the story. 💔

This novel is not for the faint of heart, but it’s well-crafted for those who appreciate a gritty, psychological thriller that explores the darker sides of human nature. It’s a gripping, unsettling read that lingers long after you turn the last page. 🖤📖
Profile Image for Myprivatebookclub.
893 reviews8 followers
July 29, 2026
This was a really engaging read. The suspense stayed high throughout the book and kept me turning the pages faster and faster. It was one of those stories that constantly makes you want to know what happens next.

I really enjoyed following Detective Olivia. Her current investigation, combined with the glimpses into her past, created two storylines that developed side by side and came together nicely in the end.

I also loved Olivia’s relationship with her partner, Walt. They made a great team, and their trust in each other added another layer to the story. On top of that, Olivia’s pregnancy and her relationship with Daniel were the perfect finishing touches. They gave the book a more personal and emotional side without taking away from the suspense.

Overall, this was a fast, gripping read, and I finished the audiobook much quicker than I expected.
Profile Image for Justice Timblin.
309 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
June 19, 2026
Debra Webb does it again with What Goes Around! At this point, she has to be the queen of crime thrillers. From the very first chapter, she pulls you into a tense, fast-paced story packed with twists, secrets, and just enough suspense to keep you guessing until the very end.

One of the things I love most about Webb's books is how she builds the tension. Every clue feels important, every character has something to hide, and the final reveal never disappoints. What Goes Around is another fantastic addition to her lineup and a reminder of why she's one of my go-to authors when I'm craving a great thriller.

If you love gripping mysteries, strong characters, and endings that make all the pieces click into place, this one is a must-read. Highly recommend!
Profile Image for Jamie R..
234 reviews
July 6, 2026
I love listening to audiobooks written by this author. Her books are thrilling, suspenseful and filled with twists.
This book is an updated version of There Once Was A Child.

The story centers around Detective Olivia Newhouse, who is called to a disturbing crime scene of a recently released pedophile. He is missing. As her investigation begins, she I going through stressors in her personal life. The author does a good job of enabling the reader/listener to feel the angst of the MC and the narrator leans into that angst.

The story took me for a twisty, dark ride that kept me intrigued and immersed. It’s a good listen and one in would recommend to fans of the genre.

Thank you to NetGalley and Brilliance Audio for the arc
Profile Image for Lindsay Wendt.
51 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
June 23, 2026
I knew this was going to be a good one!! Detective Liv has secrets, some secrets that she can't remember. The twist at the end had my jaw dropping. As the story came together... I couldn't stop listening. I had to stop folding my clothes to listen. I loved how things were explained at the end to leave no question unanswered. Even acknowledgement of the first baby. I love when thrillers have complete endings. I like when things are not left to interpretations. The author did a great job wrapping this story up. Not all thrillers make me smile and excited for the FMC! GO LIV!!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
572 reviews11 followers
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
June 27, 2026
This was a crazy intense psychological thriller police procedural. When Nashville Metro Police detectives Olivia Newhouse and her partner Walt are assigned a missing person case, nothing is as usual, the missing person is a convicted pedophile. As the two follow through on the clues and information, they uncover a revenge plot. Olivia is working to clear out her father’s belongings following his death, and discovers some pretty shocking revelations. This was an extremely entertaining and very enjoyable read. Highly engaging and extremely well paced. I really enjoyed the chemistry and friendship between Olivia and Walt.
Profile Image for Joelle.
138 reviews4 followers
June 30, 2026
When you hear the words gripping thriller, I think this is exactly what they are talking about. This was such a great audiobook and story. It did deal with some heavy topics involving a convicted pedophile, just a trigger warning if needed.
The suspense was built perfectly from start to finish. All the twists along the way just made it better. I did guess one of the main twists early on, but it didn’t take away from how great the story was. I was fully pulled in and couldn’t stop listening. The narrator was fantastic and did such a great job with the voices for the different POVs. This is a must listen!

Thank you Netgalley for the early listen in exhange for an honest review

Profile Image for Marie.
5,954 reviews57 followers
July 1, 2026
Haunting!

Like a terrifying train crash you can see happening....but can do nothing about.
Olivia Newhouse is a character of many sides, you want to like her and her determination to get justice for victims and find the truth. But her actions and attitude towards her fiancé David make it difficult to see only the good in her. I did see the truth they were barreling towards, it's a truth neither Liv or Walt see coming, they are distracted by too many overlapping events. But the truth never stays buried and the truth they find is heartbreaking, haunting and terrifying.
A great book, I listened to this on Audible with Kindle Unlimited.
857 reviews12 followers
July 7, 2026
Detective Olivia Newhouse and her partner Walt are desperately trying to find Carl Fanning, a known pedophile who got out of prison 5 years before he should have. They have found a lot of blood in his kitchen, but Fanning is nowhere to be found. Now they are desperately chasing his former victims to make sure they're still alive and, have not done anything to Fanning.
Unfortunately, Olivia is pregnant and suddenly having debilitating migraines, and blackouts. This case just keeps getting worse.
This is a heartbreaking story that will grab you and not let you go until the end!
Don't miss this one!
Profile Image for Rob.
243 reviews3 followers
June 19, 2026
4.5⭐️

🎧 - single narrator

Thanks NetGalley for the ALC!!

This is a great story filled with twists and turns! The pacing of the story was great! I was never bored! The narrator did an amazing job making each character distinct.

There are various points of view from the FMC (Olivia) and her partner Walt, to the various victims.

Olivia is a homicide detective who is partnered with Walt, the most beloved and seasoned officer on the force. They have a great father / daughter chemistry.

Overall, this was a fun mystery that may keep you guessing right up to the end!
Profile Image for Sammy Jay .
77 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
June 20, 2026
5 🌟 🎧 - ALC

Thank you NetGalley, Brilliance Publishing & Debra Webb for this opportunity to read and review this novel in advance.

This is my first 5 star thriller of 2026 or maybe ever 🤔. I could read a thriller like this every day for the rest of my literary reading lifespan and be the happiest person. This had everything I look for; fast paced, an amazing plot twist, multiple POV with great narrators, a raunchy a*s villain that we love to LOATHE and some trauma that hits you straight through the heart. I also LOVE the title name and how the story interconnects 😈🫰🏼

Well done 👏🏼. I'm excited to add more Debra Webb to my TBR and convince people to do the same.
Profile Image for Cecily -  MillennialBookGal.
3,060 reviews32 followers
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
June 24, 2026
Thank you Debra Webb and NetGalley for the advanced audiobook of this novel.

As far as thrillers goes this has all the elements you could want.

The character development is great because it made me really care about the to main characters a lot. I almost wish this was a series.

The climax and conclusion were great and surprising, I did not guess it before hand.

The narrator for Olivia felt a little too bubbly for the story but I got used to it as time webt on.

Good read.
Profile Image for Sherry.
2,269 reviews128 followers
July 26, 2026
I recently discovered Debra Webb and find I like her style and themes. She is really good at mixing characters and plot in police procedurals.

This case was twisty and had a bombshell resolution. I really liked the relationship with partners Olivia and Walt. They were so close without a romance blooming.

Victoria Connolly was great as narrator. She nailed the tense investigation and the emotional moments too. I found I could listen to it all straight through.
Profile Image for DeeAnn.
942 reviews29 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
June 3, 2026
WHAT GOES AROUND by Debra Webb
Release date June 30, 2026
Previously published as(there once was a child)

Wow, you talk about the edge of your seat!
Detective Olivia Newhouse along with her partner detective Walter Duncan are working on this case together.
It brings to light some issues that Olivia didn’t understand. These two are not only coworkers. They’re very good friends. And this story shows how close that friendship is.

The case they’re working on is finding the whereabouts of a pedophile named Joseph Fanning. He’s a felon that is now out of prison and no one knows where he is.

This is a definite mystery that had me thinking! And I loved every bit of it, considering this disturbing plot that surprised me! This is one I definitely will have to reread someday!
Profile Image for Besan Fawaz.
76 reviews4 followers
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
June 24, 2026
Thanks to netgalley & brilliance audio for the early listen! I am really glad I pushed through the initial few chapters (just didn’t grab my instant attention) because this unraveled into the most interesting storyline with plot twists I did not see coming. Once I got past the initial slump I was hooked, listening all throughout my day!
Profile Image for Nikki Loves To Read.
264 reviews17 followers
July 2, 2026
Thank you to Netgalley, Brilliance Publishing & Debra Webb for allowing me to listen to this advanced audiobook copy in exchange for an honest review.

This was such a raw, visceral book! There were so many twists and turns and the ending was insane!!
This is the second book I have read from Debra Webb and I have enjoyed both.
Profile Image for शिखा.
66 reviews
July 4, 2026
Felt more like a movie script than a novel. The climax was so obvious by the time I finished half of the book. Plot doesn’t hold water. Characters are shallow. Female lead’s chemistry with her boyfriend seems so shallow. Did not enjoy this book one bit but completely it somehow as I didn’t want another DNF in my Goodreads shelf. Lol!
2,420 reviews6 followers
August 10, 2026
3 stars
This plot seemed so familiar to me. I chalked it up to the number of books I read in a year.
Then I find out it was “revamped” and with a new title, so Amazon would not recognize that I had already read it. I hate when authors do that.
So, it’s predictable and sometimes ridiculous.
There’s a lot of action. A lot of plot.
I didn’t hate the reread but I didn’t love it either.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews