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Mr. Disappear: A Novel
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“A juicy cat-and-mouse thriller, tightly plotted to keep readers turning the pages! Trench skillfully builds suspense as tension mounts, making it easy to race to the end.”—Sophie Stava, author of Count My Lies
To catch a serial con artist, three women will stop at nothing to beat his dangerous game—a sultry thriller from the author of Our Secrets Were Safe.
He loves you.
He loves you not.
He’s gone.
He’s everything they want him to a confidante, a sexy escape, a thrill—all that and more can be theirs . . . for a price. His victims never saw the con coming. And it worked every time. Until the predator just became prey.
What began as a Reddit true crime thread has escalated into a full-tilt hunt for the man behind countless masks. But are the women driving the search a match for a master criminal? One is an ex-journalist chasing her ticket back into the industry, another a woman with a personal motive that must remain secret, and the third? His current target.
Can they outfox the ultimate swindler before he strikes again, this time with deadly consequences? In this tantalizing story of deceit and revenge, three women might get close to catching the devil—but will they get burned in the process?
To catch a serial con artist, three women will stop at nothing to beat his dangerous game—a sultry thriller from the author of Our Secrets Were Safe.
He loves you.
He loves you not.
He’s gone.
He’s everything they want him to a confidante, a sexy escape, a thrill—all that and more can be theirs . . . for a price. His victims never saw the con coming. And it worked every time. Until the predator just became prey.
What began as a Reddit true crime thread has escalated into a full-tilt hunt for the man behind countless masks. But are the women driving the search a match for a master criminal? One is an ex-journalist chasing her ticket back into the industry, another a woman with a personal motive that must remain secret, and the third? His current target.
Can they outfox the ultimate swindler before he strikes again, this time with deadly consequences? In this tantalizing story of deceit and revenge, three women might get close to catching the devil—but will they get burned in the process?
320 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication November 10, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
March 29, 2026
Con artists, identity fraud, grifters and fraudsters are some of my favourite tropes in thrillers, so the premise of Mr. Disappear immediately had my attention.
The easiest way I can describe this one is John Tucker Must Die meets Clark Rockefeller — a serial con artist seducing wealthy women, draining their finances, then disappearing before anyone realises who he truly is.
Rhys is a chameleon of a character — charming, calculated, and disturbingly good at becoming exactly who his targets want him to be. Watching him slip between identities and relationships while carefully manipulating the people around him was equal parts fascinating and infuriating.
The story unfolds through multiple POVs, including Rhys himself, which adds an extra layer of tension as you see just how methodical his schemes really are. What begins with a Reddit thread connecting victims quickly turns into a hunt to expose the man hiding behind countless aliases before he destroys another life.
I also really enjoyed how character-driven this thriller is. The women trying to stop him are messy, flawed, and driven by their own pasts and motivations, which made the story feel far more grounded than a typical cat-and-mouse thriller.
The ending definitely left me wanting more. If this story were to continue with a sequel, I’d be signing up to read it immediately.
Fast-paced and bingeable, this is a thriller that will absolutely appeal to readers who enjoy stories about manipulation, deception, and con artists who think they’re always one step ahead.
The easiest way I can describe this one is John Tucker Must Die meets Clark Rockefeller — a serial con artist seducing wealthy women, draining their finances, then disappearing before anyone realises who he truly is.
Rhys is a chameleon of a character — charming, calculated, and disturbingly good at becoming exactly who his targets want him to be. Watching him slip between identities and relationships while carefully manipulating the people around him was equal parts fascinating and infuriating.
The story unfolds through multiple POVs, including Rhys himself, which adds an extra layer of tension as you see just how methodical his schemes really are. What begins with a Reddit thread connecting victims quickly turns into a hunt to expose the man hiding behind countless aliases before he destroys another life.
I also really enjoyed how character-driven this thriller is. The women trying to stop him are messy, flawed, and driven by their own pasts and motivations, which made the story feel far more grounded than a typical cat-and-mouse thriller.
The ending definitely left me wanting more. If this story were to continue with a sequel, I’d be signing up to read it immediately.
Fast-paced and bingeable, this is a thriller that will absolutely appeal to readers who enjoy stories about manipulation, deception, and con artists who think they’re always one step ahead.
March 23, 2026
Mr. Disappear was a hard read for me to get into and the pacing felt slow at times. I found myself skimming through lots of details that didn’t feel necessary for the story.
The multiple povs were interesting but felt confusing at times. The characters were fine but I didn’t feel connected to them.
I really appreciated Liz’s character who showed the struggle of postpartum depression. It felt realistic and highlights that motherhood is not always filled with happiness.
Overall it was a decent read but wasn’t the right fit for me.
Thank you NetGalley, Crown Publishing and Virginia Trench for this eARC.
The multiple povs were interesting but felt confusing at times. The characters were fine but I didn’t feel connected to them.
I really appreciated Liz’s character who showed the struggle of postpartum depression. It felt realistic and highlights that motherhood is not always filled with happiness.
Overall it was a decent read but wasn’t the right fit for me.
Thank you NetGalley, Crown Publishing and Virginia Trench for this eARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I received an advance reader copy of Mr. Disappear in exchange for an honest review.
This was very much my kind of thriller. I love stories where women from different walks of life come together, especially in a book where they compare notes and go after a real POS. (These kinds of stories are truly my favorite version of 'competency porn.')
The villain feels believable. It's also a welcome change to have him be a con man (a brutal, sadistic one who will stop at nothing, no doubt), but not a twisted serial murderer (where the author includes graphic descriptions of torture/SA/killing). Romance scammers and con men like this exist, and the emotional and financial damage they cause can be devastating. The story does a good job of balancing the mystery and suspense with the very human impact left behind for the victims.
I found all the characters very relatable, particularly Liz, the new mom with PPD, and Quinn, a young woman with complicated & toxic family relationships.
There's also the Reddit amateur sleuthing element, which I found quite enjoyable.
As a victim advocate and co-host of an ethical true crime podcast focused on advocacy and keeping attention on unresolved cases, I also really understood one character’s reaction when another suggested turning their experiences into a podcast. The moment felt real to me, especially in a time when true crime often blurs the line between awareness and entertainment. The book touches on the tensions of public interest, storytelling, exploitation, and human impact, which I appreciated.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who's into thrillers/mysteries with "cat and mouse" tension, and I look forward to reading more from Virginia Trench.
This was very much my kind of thriller. I love stories where women from different walks of life come together, especially in a book where they compare notes and go after a real POS. (These kinds of stories are truly my favorite version of 'competency porn.')
The villain feels believable. It's also a welcome change to have him be a con man (a brutal, sadistic one who will stop at nothing, no doubt), but not a twisted serial murderer (where the author includes graphic descriptions of torture/SA/killing). Romance scammers and con men like this exist, and the emotional and financial damage they cause can be devastating. The story does a good job of balancing the mystery and suspense with the very human impact left behind for the victims.
I found all the characters very relatable, particularly Liz, the new mom with PPD, and Quinn, a young woman with complicated & toxic family relationships.
There's also the Reddit amateur sleuthing element, which I found quite enjoyable.
As a victim advocate and co-host of an ethical true crime podcast focused on advocacy and keeping attention on unresolved cases, I also really understood one character’s reaction when another suggested turning their experiences into a podcast. The moment felt real to me, especially in a time when true crime often blurs the line between awareness and entertainment. The book touches on the tensions of public interest, storytelling, exploitation, and human impact, which I appreciated.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who's into thrillers/mysteries with "cat and mouse" tension, and I look forward to reading more from Virginia Trench.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Going to right away point out that I was not the intended audience for this book. The cover alone is very telling as to what the story would be like- it didn't work for me, but looks about right for what I just read. Definitely geared towards a younger Gen Z or YA reader (including the one random wannabe smut chapter thrown in there).
I initially thought the story was going to give off 'John Tucker Must Die' vibes, but starting at about one third of the way through I was wondering what the actual hell was going on, and unfortunately that never really resolved for me. There was not much substance to this story- at all. And there were fractured plot points everywhere; lots of holes in the story line. Not only that, but there was quite a bit of repetition in terms of describing and setting the scenes. Granted this was occasionally done from different points of view, but it came off more as a review vs reading when I would get to those parts. Some chapters it took me a bit to figure out whose POV I was getting. Rhys was almost immediately detectable because of how obnoxious and arrogant he came off, but the female characters I had trouble keeping straight at times. There were some full chapters it took me almost the entirety of to figure out the timeline (if it was past or present).
Overall, this book was very surface level. You could be distracted when reading this story and can still have the same grasp on what went on (what even went on?). There was too much attempted and not enough was given/delivered for me. This was my second advanced reader copy (thank you, netgalley for the opportunity!) and the second in this similarish genre.
I initially thought the story was going to give off 'John Tucker Must Die' vibes, but starting at about one third of the way through I was wondering what the actual hell was going on, and unfortunately that never really resolved for me. There was not much substance to this story- at all. And there were fractured plot points everywhere; lots of holes in the story line. Not only that, but there was quite a bit of repetition in terms of describing and setting the scenes. Granted this was occasionally done from different points of view, but it came off more as a review vs reading when I would get to those parts. Some chapters it took me a bit to figure out whose POV I was getting. Rhys was almost immediately detectable because of how obnoxious and arrogant he came off, but the female characters I had trouble keeping straight at times. There were some full chapters it took me almost the entirety of to figure out the timeline (if it was past or present).
Overall, this book was very surface level. You could be distracted when reading this story and can still have the same grasp on what went on (what even went on?). There was too much attempted and not enough was given/delivered for me. This was my second advanced reader copy (thank you, netgalley for the opportunity!) and the second in this similarish genre.
April 9, 2026
Oh this one is fun.
If you’re even remotely into dating-con stories or those scammer documentaries, Mr. Disappear pulls you in immediately. Within the first few pages, I was already hooked—the whole “mutual con artist preying on men and women” angle is messy in the best way, and it totally gives that slick, seductive Heartbreakers-type vibe.
What really sold me is how it layers the story. Just when you think you’re following one con, boom—now you’re also seeing things from a victim’s perspective. It adds this tension where you’re constantly questioning who’s playing who. And honestly, I loved that uneasy feeling of not knowing who to trust.
Liz as a character was interesting too. Slightly chaotic, a little too relatable at times (which is both comforting and concerning 😅). You can see her flaws, but that’s what makes her feel real.
And the twists… yeah, there are a lot of them. Just when you settle in:
• Surprise villain enters
• Then another twist
• Then suddenly… a dead body??
• And then another “wait… is that even the body we think it is??”
It keeps escalating in a way that could feel over-the-top, but somehow it works because the tone leans into the drama and unpredictability.
By the end, it definitely feels like it’s setting something bigger up—and honestly, I wouldn’t be mad about a sequel. There’s more story here, and I’d absolutely come back for it.
Overall: twisty, dramatic, a little chaotic, and very bingeable. Perfect if you love a good con story with a side of “what the hell is happening right now?” energy.
If you’re even remotely into dating-con stories or those scammer documentaries, Mr. Disappear pulls you in immediately. Within the first few pages, I was already hooked—the whole “mutual con artist preying on men and women” angle is messy in the best way, and it totally gives that slick, seductive Heartbreakers-type vibe.
What really sold me is how it layers the story. Just when you think you’re following one con, boom—now you’re also seeing things from a victim’s perspective. It adds this tension where you’re constantly questioning who’s playing who. And honestly, I loved that uneasy feeling of not knowing who to trust.
Liz as a character was interesting too. Slightly chaotic, a little too relatable at times (which is both comforting and concerning 😅). You can see her flaws, but that’s what makes her feel real.
And the twists… yeah, there are a lot of them. Just when you settle in:
• Surprise villain enters
• Then another twist
• Then suddenly… a dead body??
• And then another “wait… is that even the body we think it is??”
It keeps escalating in a way that could feel over-the-top, but somehow it works because the tone leans into the drama and unpredictability.
By the end, it definitely feels like it’s setting something bigger up—and honestly, I wouldn’t be mad about a sequel. There’s more story here, and I’d absolutely come back for it.
Overall: twisty, dramatic, a little chaotic, and very bingeable. Perfect if you love a good con story with a side of “what the hell is happening right now?” energy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Another amazing thriller brought to our team by #thrillerbookloversthepulse!
Ready for a con-artist thriller that’ll make your blood boil? “Mr. Disappear” dives into scams that are so slick, you’ll want to throw your Kindle at this charming swindler. It’s wild (and maddening) that people like this are out there, and they’re absolute pros at what they do.
Thanks to the author and Crown Publishing for this #GiftedARC provided via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
This story jumps between different points of view, and that structure makes it addictive. We get a front-row seat to a serial charmer living it up on the money he’s stolen, a former journalist clawing her way back into the game, a woman with secrets locked up tight, and his latest target, heading straight for disaster while the others race to pull her out before she becomes another headline.
The tension comes from watching how easily he shifts personas and how the women piece together the truth. It’s so satisfying when one of his marks realizes she’s been playing right into his hands. It hits hard because you see just how sneaky someone like him can be.
Fast, sharp, and rooted in the kind of psychological manipulation that feels uncomfortably real. It’s a chase, a character study, and a revenge fantasy all at once. A tight, addictive read where the villain is slick, the women are smart, and the stakes keep climbing.
#MrDisappear #UpcomingThriller #honestreview
Another amazing thriller brought to our team by #thrillerbookloversthepulse!
Ready for a con-artist thriller that’ll make your blood boil? “Mr. Disappear” dives into scams that are so slick, you’ll want to throw your Kindle at this charming swindler. It’s wild (and maddening) that people like this are out there, and they’re absolute pros at what they do.
Thanks to the author and Crown Publishing for this #GiftedARC provided via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
This story jumps between different points of view, and that structure makes it addictive. We get a front-row seat to a serial charmer living it up on the money he’s stolen, a former journalist clawing her way back into the game, a woman with secrets locked up tight, and his latest target, heading straight for disaster while the others race to pull her out before she becomes another headline.
The tension comes from watching how easily he shifts personas and how the women piece together the truth. It’s so satisfying when one of his marks realizes she’s been playing right into his hands. It hits hard because you see just how sneaky someone like him can be.
Fast, sharp, and rooted in the kind of psychological manipulation that feels uncomfortably real. It’s a chase, a character study, and a revenge fantasy all at once. A tight, addictive read where the villain is slick, the women are smart, and the stakes keep climbing.
#MrDisappear #UpcomingThriller #honestreview
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you NetGalley, and Crown Publishing for the Advanced Reader’s Copy of Mr. Disappear by Virginia Trench. This novel will be published on November 10, 2026.
Rhys is a conman, with multiple aliases, who targets rich women, or soon to be rich women. A Reddit thread connects Liz and Alex so they can get to him before he targets more women.
The story is told via multiple POVs: Rhys, the conman; Quinn Anderson, the current target; and Alex Miller and Liz Cunningham, who are looking to expose and take him down. What’s unknown about Alex and Liz is their past connection to the conman or their personal motivations. Of the various perspectives, only the conman’s POV is written in the 1st person. Regardless the POV, the story was easy to follow.
The author captures the essence of each character’s personality perfectly. There is an incredible amount of depth to each and every character whether they’re good or bad. Even minor characters, like Mitzi, feel significant in the roles they play to the overall story. I felt emotionally invested into the lives of these women and their past struggles.
This was a beautifully written, fast-paced thriller with every chapter ending in a cliffhanger that just keeps you reading. An incredible five star read with no hint of a sophomore slump. Virginia Trench is an author to look out for in the future.
#MrDisappear #VirginiaTrench #CrownPublishing #NetGalley
Rhys is a conman, with multiple aliases, who targets rich women, or soon to be rich women. A Reddit thread connects Liz and Alex so they can get to him before he targets more women.
The story is told via multiple POVs: Rhys, the conman; Quinn Anderson, the current target; and Alex Miller and Liz Cunningham, who are looking to expose and take him down. What’s unknown about Alex and Liz is their past connection to the conman or their personal motivations. Of the various perspectives, only the conman’s POV is written in the 1st person. Regardless the POV, the story was easy to follow.
The author captures the essence of each character’s personality perfectly. There is an incredible amount of depth to each and every character whether they’re good or bad. Even minor characters, like Mitzi, feel significant in the roles they play to the overall story. I felt emotionally invested into the lives of these women and their past struggles.
This was a beautifully written, fast-paced thriller with every chapter ending in a cliffhanger that just keeps you reading. An incredible five star read with no hint of a sophomore slump. Virginia Trench is an author to look out for in the future.
#MrDisappear #VirginiaTrench #CrownPublishing #NetGalley
April 18, 2026
I love this title—so fitting!!! Mr. Disappear is a serial con artist who becomes whoever he needs to be (Rhys, Jacob… you get the idea) to charm women, steal from them, and vanish.
When a Reddit thread begins connecting his victims, Liz—a new mom and former investigative journalist—starts digging for answers (and maybe a sense of purpose beyond motherhood). Teaming up with Alex, they set a plan in motion, bringing Quinn into the fold… who may be his next target.
This one leans more slow-burn, building a tense cat-and-mouse game between predator and prey. I really enjoyed the dynamic between the three women; their bond rooted in shared trauma felt authentic and layered. Each of them is flawed in a way that makes it believable how Mr. Disappear slips under their guard.
I especially loved Liz’s postpartum journey and how it tied into her need for purpose. And Mr. Disappear himself? So arrogant and calculated… but honestly kind of fun to read. A true love-to-hate villain.
The ending felt a little rushed after the slower build, but overall I enjoyed this one. If you like con artist stories with a bit more depth, add it to your Fall 2026 TBR!!
When a Reddit thread begins connecting his victims, Liz—a new mom and former investigative journalist—starts digging for answers (and maybe a sense of purpose beyond motherhood). Teaming up with Alex, they set a plan in motion, bringing Quinn into the fold… who may be his next target.
This one leans more slow-burn, building a tense cat-and-mouse game between predator and prey. I really enjoyed the dynamic between the three women; their bond rooted in shared trauma felt authentic and layered. Each of them is flawed in a way that makes it believable how Mr. Disappear slips under their guard.
I especially loved Liz’s postpartum journey and how it tied into her need for purpose. And Mr. Disappear himself? So arrogant and calculated… but honestly kind of fun to read. A true love-to-hate villain.
The ending felt a little rushed after the slower build, but overall I enjoyed this one. If you like con artist stories with a bit more depth, add it to your Fall 2026 TBR!!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is my first introduction to the author, Virginia Trench, and I must say I am impressed by her work. The book is riveting and thrilling, and I enjoyed it immensely!
The storyline doesn’t immediately hook me, but that’s okay. After reading the first major scene, I became interested in the rest of the story. The characters’ arcs are believable and captivating. I especially like the character, Liz. Although she was going through her own storms and tribulations, she remained a compelling character.
My opinion of the book evolves as the story progresses. The antagonist is creepy and terrifying. I was thrilled that the climax unfolded the way it did. It was perfect!
I am satisfied with the book’s ending and resolution. Mrs. Trench is an amazing storyteller, and I will keep an eye out for more of her work. 4-star rating across the board! Loved it!
Thank you, NetGalley and Crown Publishing, for the ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily and honestly, without bias.
The storyline doesn’t immediately hook me, but that’s okay. After reading the first major scene, I became interested in the rest of the story. The characters’ arcs are believable and captivating. I especially like the character, Liz. Although she was going through her own storms and tribulations, she remained a compelling character.
My opinion of the book evolves as the story progresses. The antagonist is creepy and terrifying. I was thrilled that the climax unfolded the way it did. It was perfect!
I am satisfied with the book’s ending and resolution. Mrs. Trench is an amazing storyteller, and I will keep an eye out for more of her work. 4-star rating across the board! Loved it!
Thank you, NetGalley and Crown Publishing, for the ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily and honestly, without bias.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Mr. Disappear
By: Virginia Trench
Pub date: November 10, 2026
Publisher: Crown
Tour: Thriller Book Lovers THE PULSE
When I received this ARC I was elated, because I loved the authors debut Our Secrets Were Safe
Someone is out there dating men/women who is victimizing people. He is charismatic, sexy and all they want of their partners.
A crime thread on Reddit stats a revenge plot. A man has been a predator, con artist and manipulator who is a chameleon. How do you find someone whose MO (Modus Operandi) is always changing. How do you find the patterns? The victims? Do you want to come forward to get this criminal?
Can the targets outwit their predator and bring him to justice without a deadly outcome?
This keeps you guessing. Mr. Disappear, knows how to disappear, but will he or she be caught?
By: Virginia Trench
Pub date: November 10, 2026
Publisher: Crown
Tour: Thriller Book Lovers THE PULSE
When I received this ARC I was elated, because I loved the authors debut Our Secrets Were Safe
Someone is out there dating men/women who is victimizing people. He is charismatic, sexy and all they want of their partners.
A crime thread on Reddit stats a revenge plot. A man has been a predator, con artist and manipulator who is a chameleon. How do you find someone whose MO (Modus Operandi) is always changing. How do you find the patterns? The victims? Do you want to come forward to get this criminal?
Can the targets outwit their predator and bring him to justice without a deadly outcome?
This keeps you guessing. Mr. Disappear, knows how to disappear, but will he or she be caught?
April 16, 2026
Rhys is the kind of man you trust instantly He’s charming, attractive, and impossible not to like.
Which is exactly what makes him so dangerous.
This multi-POV thriller follows a serial con man, his current girlfriend (potential next victim), a woman from his past, and a laid-off reporter/new mom chasing her next big story.
When a Reddit thread starts connecting the dots on Rhys, everything begins to unravel and fast.
The psychological aspect of this book was SO well done. Rhys was chillingly believable, but what really stood out to me was how real the female characters felt. Especially the postpartum representation and the struggles that come with being a new mom. Raw, honest, and very relatable.
If you enjoyed The Talented Mr. Ripley, Catch Me If You Can, You(the series) or any Freida McFadden series then you will definitely enjoy this Virginia Trench thriller.
Thank you NetGalley and Crown Publishing for this ARC!
Which is exactly what makes him so dangerous.
This multi-POV thriller follows a serial con man, his current girlfriend (potential next victim), a woman from his past, and a laid-off reporter/new mom chasing her next big story.
When a Reddit thread starts connecting the dots on Rhys, everything begins to unravel and fast.
The psychological aspect of this book was SO well done. Rhys was chillingly believable, but what really stood out to me was how real the female characters felt. Especially the postpartum representation and the struggles that come with being a new mom. Raw, honest, and very relatable.
If you enjoyed The Talented Mr. Ripley, Catch Me If You Can, You(the series) or any Freida McFadden series then you will definitely enjoy this Virginia Trench thriller.
Thank you NetGalley and Crown Publishing for this ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Author
The team at The Pulse is really loving this upcoming new release by Virginia Trench!
He’s everything they want him to be: a confidante, a sexy escape, a thrill…all that and more can be theirs . . . for a price. His victims never saw the con coming. And it worked every time. Until now: the predator just became prey.
What began as a Reddit true crime thread has escalated into a full-tilt hunt for the man behind countless masks. But are the women driving the search a match for a master criminal? One is an ex-journalist chasing her ticket back into the industry, another a woman with a personal motive that must remain secret, and the third? His current target. Can these three women beat him at his game before he strikes again?
This was a fast paced addictive thriller that you won’t want to put down! It’s told from multiple points of view…Quinn, who is his current target, Alex and Liz who both have their own reasons for wanting to catch the conman, and Rhys, the conman himself. I enkoyed reading it from all of these perspectives. We really get a glimpse into the characters everyday lives, which helps make them all very relatable. I also really enjoyed the chapters that were from the conman’s perspective. It added a different kind of suspense, being able to see things through his twisted viewpoint. I definitely recommend this one…It’s a great choice to for anyone who loves a twisty thriller!
Thank you to Virginia Trench and Crown Publishing for this advance reader copy!
He’s everything they want him to be: a confidante, a sexy escape, a thrill…all that and more can be theirs . . . for a price. His victims never saw the con coming. And it worked every time. Until now: the predator just became prey.
What began as a Reddit true crime thread has escalated into a full-tilt hunt for the man behind countless masks. But are the women driving the search a match for a master criminal? One is an ex-journalist chasing her ticket back into the industry, another a woman with a personal motive that must remain secret, and the third? His current target. Can these three women beat him at his game before he strikes again?
This was a fast paced addictive thriller that you won’t want to put down! It’s told from multiple points of view…Quinn, who is his current target, Alex and Liz who both have their own reasons for wanting to catch the conman, and Rhys, the conman himself. I enkoyed reading it from all of these perspectives. We really get a glimpse into the characters everyday lives, which helps make them all very relatable. I also really enjoyed the chapters that were from the conman’s perspective. It added a different kind of suspense, being able to see things through his twisted viewpoint. I definitely recommend this one…It’s a great choice to for anyone who loves a twisty thriller!
Thank you to Virginia Trench and Crown Publishing for this advance reader copy!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is an honest ARC review from NetGalley:
First, this book hit pretty close to home with the postpartum of one of the characters. The emotion and the memories of my own experience started to cloud the storyline to the point of almost not being able to finish it. That said, it's amazing with a story or writing can connect with you like that! I am so glad I stuck with it!
I thought it was a fun read, but I feel like there was so much left unfinished. I wish the characters had more development and even some back story on the "villain" to make it feel more complete. I think if there was a second book that tied up loose ends I might rate this higher but as it stands it just sort of ended...
First, this book hit pretty close to home with the postpartum of one of the characters. The emotion and the memories of my own experience started to cloud the storyline to the point of almost not being able to finish it. That said, it's amazing with a story or writing can connect with you like that! I am so glad I stuck with it!
I thought it was a fun read, but I feel like there was so much left unfinished. I wish the characters had more development and even some back story on the "villain" to make it feel more complete. I think if there was a second book that tied up loose ends I might rate this higher but as it stands it just sort of ended...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was a good, fun, edge of your seat thriller, that involves a catfish that's more than a catfish, and the people who are after him, each have their own reasons. Though there are moments that dragged a little, the ending made it totally worth it.
A girl, swept away by a handsome guy who says all the right things, but may also be a gigillo to a woman of a certain age in another city, and then there's the murder investigation on the other side of the world... there's no way they can all be linked, ... and who is doing the linking is a whole other story.
If you like thrillers that aren't focused on cops and serial killers, then this is one that breaks the mold and takes you on a wild ride!
3.5 stars.
I was gifted this book from NetGalley and all opinions are my own.
A girl, swept away by a handsome guy who says all the right things, but may also be a gigillo to a woman of a certain age in another city, and then there's the murder investigation on the other side of the world... there's no way they can all be linked, ... and who is doing the linking is a whole other story.
If you like thrillers that aren't focused on cops and serial killers, then this is one that breaks the mold and takes you on a wild ride!
3.5 stars.
I was gifted this book from NetGalley and all opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
He becomes exactly who his victims want him to be. That’s how he gains trust and destroys them. Everything he does is calculated, meticulous, and premeditated.
Alex uncovers a chilling Reddit trail: “Mr. Disappear.” Different aliases, but same predator. A warning—don’t come looking. But she does, and has help.
A slow-burn psychological thriller that creeps under your skin, building tension as a group of women unite to hunt the con man who’s been hurting them. Chapter after chapter, the chase is gripping and nearly impossible to put down. Liz’s postpartum struggle adds a layer of emotional depth that makes the story hit even harder.
I'll give it 3.5 stars.
Thank you Crown Publishing, and Netgalley for the ARC.
Read on release date 11/10/2026.
Alex uncovers a chilling Reddit trail: “Mr. Disappear.” Different aliases, but same predator. A warning—don’t come looking. But she does, and has help.
A slow-burn psychological thriller that creeps under your skin, building tension as a group of women unite to hunt the con man who’s been hurting them. Chapter after chapter, the chase is gripping and nearly impossible to put down. Liz’s postpartum struggle adds a layer of emotional depth that makes the story hit even harder.
I'll give it 3.5 stars.
Thank you Crown Publishing, and Netgalley for the ARC.
Read on release date 11/10/2026.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I thought the book took a few chapters to get going, but I thoroughly enjoyed this book and appreciate getting an advanced reader copy from NetGalley.
I liked the way the writer told chapters from different characters and see their point of view. I loved the characters of Alex and Liz, and Quinn’s grew on me.
I thought the author did an excellent job of weaving together the story of a con man and his prey and how three total strangers with a connection to him get together to try to catch him. I would recommend this book. Once I got about a quarter of the way through, I found myself reading late into the night as I did not want to put it down. I would definitely pick up another book by this author.
I liked the way the writer told chapters from different characters and see their point of view. I loved the characters of Alex and Liz, and Quinn’s grew on me.
I thought the author did an excellent job of weaving together the story of a con man and his prey and how three total strangers with a connection to him get together to try to catch him. I would recommend this book. Once I got about a quarter of the way through, I found myself reading late into the night as I did not want to put it down. I would definitely pick up another book by this author.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Mr. Disappear, a thriller by Virginia Trench, does not disappoint. The MMC, who adopts a new name with each new victim, is a callous narcissist who preys on the most intimate desires of women for gain. When some of his prior victims decide to expose him, the stakes are high, and the hunter becomes the hunted. Combining traditional narrative peppered with text messages and chat room dialogue, the story kept a fast pace. The author included a few twists that kept me wondering, at times, "what was coming next?" I especially appreciated the inclusion of Liz's postpartum depression as a humanizing factor that added depth to her character.
I would recommend it and gave it 4 stars.
I would recommend it and gave it 4 stars.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Multiple viewpoints tell the story of a successful con man at the end of his run when three women get on his trail in order to hunt him down and put a stop to him. And start a podcast.
This story is sharply told from the point of view of the unhappy new mother Liz, to mysterious Alex, and new victim Quinn, their one focus is to find and bring to light Mr. Disappear. He’s more than scamming women, he’s possibly linked to a disappearance or two. We get his pov also, which makes for an interesting contrast, though at no point is he sympathetic—he does have an interesting voice and the only pov in the first person.
The pages turn quickly, and I got to the end feeling there should be more, but I think that was just the excellent momentum of the story. Highly recommended thriller/suspense.
thank you NetGalley
This story is sharply told from the point of view of the unhappy new mother Liz, to mysterious Alex, and new victim Quinn, their one focus is to find and bring to light Mr. Disappear. He’s more than scamming women, he’s possibly linked to a disappearance or two. We get his pov also, which makes for an interesting contrast, though at no point is he sympathetic—he does have an interesting voice and the only pov in the first person.
The pages turn quickly, and I got to the end feeling there should be more, but I think that was just the excellent momentum of the story. Highly recommended thriller/suspense.
thank you NetGalley
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you, Crown Publishing for the eARC. The opinions are my own and freely given.
3 women come together to catch a serial con artist that has cost several women their life savings, and then disappear.
1 woman is a reporter who knows there is a story and she just needs help to find it.
The second woman has a past she is trying to leave behind and was his partner until everything went south. And the last woman is his current target and once she finds out his real motives, she takes matters into her own hands.
The trust between the women is fractured. But they are stronger together, and none of them will stop until justice is served.
3 women come together to catch a serial con artist that has cost several women their life savings, and then disappear.
1 woman is a reporter who knows there is a story and she just needs help to find it.
The second woman has a past she is trying to leave behind and was his partner until everything went south. And the last woman is his current target and once she finds out his real motives, she takes matters into her own hands.
The trust between the women is fractured. But they are stronger together, and none of them will stop until justice is served.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to NetGalley, Crown Publishing and Virginia Trench for sharing this ARC with me, in exchange for my honest review.
Mr. Disappear is a phenomenal thriller told in multiple POV's. The POV I enjoyed the most s the man talking directly to me. The character development and world building seemed relatable and real. The flow is steady without being rushed or confusing. Just when I thought I had things figured out, Ms. Virginia would hit with a twist.
I highly recommend that y'all get y'alls hands on this book on November 10, 2026, trust me on this.
Mr. Disappear is a phenomenal thriller told in multiple POV's. The POV I enjoyed the most s the man talking directly to me. The character development and world building seemed relatable and real. The flow is steady without being rushed or confusing. Just when I thought I had things figured out, Ms. Virginia would hit with a twist.
I highly recommend that y'all get y'alls hands on this book on November 10, 2026, trust me on this.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
It’s been awhile since I’ve read about a character as loathsome and repulsive as the slimy slithery eel who takes many different personas so he can scam and defraud people.
Three women with very different backgrounds and reasons are determined to catch him.
I cheered them on and tried not to vomit when I read every scene with Mr. Scumbag.
I had a very satisfied smile on my face by the end of the book.
Prison is too good for the lowlife!!!
Thanks Crown, NetGalley and Thriller Books The Pulse for the advance copy/
Three women with very different backgrounds and reasons are determined to catch him.
I cheered them on and tried not to vomit when I read every scene with Mr. Scumbag.
I had a very satisfied smile on my face by the end of the book.
Prison is too good for the lowlife!!!
Thanks Crown, NetGalley and Thriller Books The Pulse for the advance copy/
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is the first book I've read by Virginia Trench and I wasn't disappointed. This is an exceptional multi POV thriller that keeps you hooked.
Dating app nightmare you never want to witness.
A Reddit true crime thread brings two women together with a common goal. Find the the man that seems to be a ghost and stop him from hurting anyone else. This book is fast paced and kept me wanting more. I thought I figured it out but I was wrong.
I highly recommend this book. You wont be disappointed.
Thank you Netgalley and crown publishing for this ARC book.
Dating app nightmare you never want to witness.
A Reddit true crime thread brings two women together with a common goal. Find the the man that seems to be a ghost and stop him from hurting anyone else. This book is fast paced and kept me wanting more. I thought I figured it out but I was wrong.
I highly recommend this book. You wont be disappointed.
Thank you Netgalley and crown publishing for this ARC book.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Mr. Disappear was exactly the kind of thriller that reminds me why I love this genre. Fast-paced, twisty, and genuinely hard to put down… I kept telling myself “just one more chapter” and suddenly it was way past my bedtime.
The tension builds really well throughout, with just enough surprises to keep things interesting without feeling over-the-top. And the ending? Super satisfying. It wrapped things up in a way that felt earned, which isn’t always the case with thrillers.
If you’re looking for a page-turner that will pull you in, this one absolutely delivers.
The tension builds really well throughout, with just enough surprises to keep things interesting without feeling over-the-top. And the ending? Super satisfying. It wrapped things up in a way that felt earned, which isn’t always the case with thrillers.
If you’re looking for a page-turner that will pull you in, this one absolutely delivers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I have never read a book by Virginia Trench. This book gave me Lifetime movie vibes. While some parts seemed to move kind of slow, the pacing was enough for me to stay intrigued in the story.
Multiple Victims, fraudsters, multiple point of views, and a man at the heart of it all? Yeah, definitely just like a great Lifetime movie. Postpartum Depression is something I am beyond familiar with, after experiencing it myself, so seeing this included in the story made it that much more interesting.
I will definitely be recommending this as a read for my book club, we love a good thriller.
Multiple Victims, fraudsters, multiple point of views, and a man at the heart of it all? Yeah, definitely just like a great Lifetime movie. Postpartum Depression is something I am beyond familiar with, after experiencing it myself, so seeing this included in the story made it that much more interesting.
I will definitely be recommending this as a read for my book club, we love a good thriller.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Mr. Disappear was a quick read that kept me engaged the entire time. I enjoyed the multi-person point of view and seeing the inter-workings of a criminal's thoughts. Quinn who is a naive young individual who has lost her last family member. Liz is a new mother suffering from depression and looking for something to bring light into her life. Alex is a misunderstood and still grieving sister. They team up to take down a criminal who has not been brought to justice for his life long crimes. I would recommend reading this book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 21, 2026
Mr. Disappear was a quick read that kept me engaged the entire time. I enjoyed the multi-person point of view and seeing the inter-workings of a criminal's thoughts. Quinn who is a naive young individual who has lost her last family member. Liz is a new mother suffering from depression and looking for something to bring light into her life. Alex is a misunderstood and still grieving sister. They team up to take down a criminal who has not been brought to justice for his life long crimes. I would recommend reading this book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was entertaining enough. I found it hard to get into, but it held my interest more as the story progressed. The chapters from the con artists POV were hard to read, so it probably didn't help that he was the first chapter. The con artist and the "evil mother in law" were written like caricatures. I also cringed when someone mentioned "lexapro addled housewives." Who's getting addled off lexapro? lol
Review of advance copy received from Author
"Rhys" (one of many identities) is an incredible villain and antagonist in this action packed thriller. A serial con artist who takes advantage of desperate women, he is about to prey on his latest victim, when he finally meets his match in three women from unlikely backgrounds who band together to attempt to stop and catch him.
If you enjoyed "The Tinder Swindler", but would have liked to see justice better meted out, you will love this incredibly fast paced, dark, and twisty thriller!
If you enjoyed "The Tinder Swindler", but would have liked to see justice better meted out, you will love this incredibly fast paced, dark, and twisty thriller!
June 11, 2026
The man of your dreams is dating you but something is not quite right. He’s a conman who goes by many names. He’s really good at what he does getting women to give him money and buy him things before he disappears. I love how the author writes the POV’s in this book.
Three women are determined to stop him before he hurts anyone else. The women live very different lives and that made the book interesting.
Three women are determined to stop him before he hurts anyone else. The women live very different lives and that made the book interesting.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Having not read the author’s first book, I went into this book not really knowing what to expect. I was pleasantly surprised!
I really enjoyed the characters in this book. How they were willing to work together to help one another. Even the side characters were well thought out :)
I also liked the way the author ended the book. It Definitely made me smile :)
Thank you so much to NetGalley for the advanced copy to read and review!
I really enjoyed the characters in this book. How they were willing to work together to help one another. Even the side characters were well thought out :)
I also liked the way the author ended the book. It Definitely made me smile :)
Thank you so much to NetGalley for the advanced copy to read and review!
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