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You Can Leave
Punk rocker Eris Edge was the biggest thing out of Mount Falls, Illinois, until the Side Swiper Killer arrived in the summer of 1987.
After a drunken on-stage meltdown gets her kicked out of the band, Eris Edge returns to her small town as a sultry-voiced DJ warning listeners about a growing body count out on Highway 51.
The news was on the radio. The danger was just outside her door.
Across town, fifteen-year-old Penny Brooks craves attention from her neighbor, Tim Sievers, and an escape from her chaotic home life. She clings to Eris Edge’s late-night radio show for comfort. With Mount Falls now on lockdown and the killer’s presence drawing near, Penny soon discovers the danger is closer than she ever imagined.
Dig too deep, and some secrets won’t stay buried.
Lola Dubois is writing a tell-all to destroy her mother’s reputation. When she reaches out to Eris, still reeling from the betrayal that cost her band, Eris agrees to confide in her. But Lola uncovers far more, revealing the terrifying story of the summer of 1987, when the Side Swiper Killer haunted Highway 51, and the past refuses to stay buried.
After a drunken on-stage meltdown gets her kicked out of the band, Eris Edge returns to her small town as a sultry-voiced DJ warning listeners about a growing body count out on Highway 51.
The news was on the radio. The danger was just outside her door.
Across town, fifteen-year-old Penny Brooks craves attention from her neighbor, Tim Sievers, and an escape from her chaotic home life. She clings to Eris Edge’s late-night radio show for comfort. With Mount Falls now on lockdown and the killer’s presence drawing near, Penny soon discovers the danger is closer than she ever imagined.
Dig too deep, and some secrets won’t stay buried.
Lola Dubois is writing a tell-all to destroy her mother’s reputation. When she reaches out to Eris, still reeling from the betrayal that cost her band, Eris agrees to confide in her. But Lola uncovers far more, revealing the terrifying story of the summer of 1987, when the Side Swiper Killer haunted Highway 51, and the past refuses to stay buried.
360 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 13, 2026
About the author
Nicole Annbury
4 books52 followersNicole Annbury is a writer of dark fiction in the thriller, psychological suspense, and mystery genres.
She currently lives in Indiana with her husband and three cats. When she's not writing, she enjoys nature walks, true crime documentaries, reality TV viewing and going on drives with her husband.
She currently lives in Indiana with her husband and three cats. When she's not writing, she enjoys nature walks, true crime documentaries, reality TV viewing and going on drives with her husband.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
Review of advance copy
This is my third book, and I hope you love it as much as I loved writing it! Eris Edge was one character that will stay with me forever <3
Enjoy, nicole
Enjoy, nicole
August 17, 2026
I’ve really been loving books lately that take place in the 80s & this one definitely hit the spot!
Such a great suspenseful, character driven book! This one is full of manipulation, secrets, drama & lies. I did not want to put this one down!
I loved the main characters and getting the point of view of each one. It helped to connect with each one & also added so many layers to the story.
I enjoyed the suspend and trying to figure out just who the Side-Swipe Killer was! While I did figure it out before the big reveal, I had fun being suspicious of everyone!
I also really enjoyed the multiple reveals at the end! Each part of the story was nicely wrapped up with a bow, even though there were some tragic endings.
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for this advanced reader copy!
Such a great suspenseful, character driven book! This one is full of manipulation, secrets, drama & lies. I did not want to put this one down!
I loved the main characters and getting the point of view of each one. It helped to connect with each one & also added so many layers to the story.
I enjoyed the suspend and trying to figure out just who the Side-Swipe Killer was! While I did figure it out before the big reveal, I had fun being suspicious of everyone!
I also really enjoyed the multiple reveals at the end! Each part of the story was nicely wrapped up with a bow, even though there were some tragic endings.
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for this advanced reader copy!
July 23, 2026
Punk rocker Eris Edge was once the biggest name to come out of Mount Falls, Illinois. But after being kicked out of her band, she’s forced to return to the small town she worked so hard to escape. Her rockstar dreams are over, and she reluctantly takes a job as a DJ at the local radio station, the same summer the Side Swiper Killer begins terrorizing Highway 51. As the body count rises, fear spreads through the community, and no one feels safe leaving their homes.
In the present day, Eris is finally ready to tell her side of the story. When the daughter of her longtime nemesis sets out to write a book about what happened, Eris sees it as her chance to reveal the truth about her rise to fame, her fall from grace, and the secrets she’s carried since the summer of 1987.
Told through multiple POVs and timelines, this was a gripping, page-turning thriller from beginning to end. I ended up finishing it at 1 a.m. because I couldn’t put it down. Every chapter pulled me in deeper, and I just had to know how everything connected.
The ending completely caught me off guard, I was literally yelling at the pages! Between the eerie atmosphere, heartbreaking moments, and shocking secrets, this story genuinely shook me.
July 17, 2026
You Can Leave Now by Nicole Annbury absolutely delivered! This was such a twisty, character-driven suspense that had me hooked from start to finish.
I loved the multiple POVs and the journal entry format, it added so much depth to the story. Watching Penny, Lola, and Eris’s perspectives weave together was incredibly satisfying as all the pieces slowly fell into place.
The 80s nostalgia was such a fun touch too! From the party line to the rock band references, it added an extra layer of atmosphere that I really enjoyed.
If you’re a fan of character-driven suspense packed with buried secrets, bitterness, a serial killer, and plenty of twists, this is one you’ll definitely want on your radar.
I loved the multiple POVs and the journal entry format, it added so much depth to the story. Watching Penny, Lola, and Eris’s perspectives weave together was incredibly satisfying as all the pieces slowly fell into place.
The 80s nostalgia was such a fun touch too! From the party line to the rock band references, it added an extra layer of atmosphere that I really enjoyed.
If you’re a fan of character-driven suspense packed with buried secrets, bitterness, a serial killer, and plenty of twists, this is one you’ll definitely want on your radar.
May 14, 2026
Another excellent book by Nicole Annbury. While it took me a little longer to get into, I think this is my favorite book of hers. The main characters were very well fleshed out, and at least one character (and her bird) are really fun to hate. The central mystery was intriguing and kept me guessing until the very end. I love anything to do with music as well, so having the characters be part of a punk band was right up my alley. I definitely recommend it, as I do all her books.
May 16, 2026
Another Five Star thriller from Nicole!
Nicole Annbury’s third thriller is a fast-paced ride that hooks you from the very first page! Her descriptive language brings every scene vividly to life, while the well-developed characters give you real reasons to care about what happens to them. Just when you think you’ve figured it out, the twists and turns keep you guessing. A must-read for any thriller fan.
Nicole Annbury’s third thriller is a fast-paced ride that hooks you from the very first page! Her descriptive language brings every scene vividly to life, while the well-developed characters give you real reasons to care about what happens to them. Just when you think you’ve figured it out, the twists and turns keep you guessing. A must-read for any thriller fan.
July 16, 2026
“You Can Leave” by Nicole Annbury is a suspenseful slow burn thriller filled with secrets, lies, and hidden motives. The story takes its time building the tension, but the mystery kept me engaged as more pieces of the puzzle fell into place. I especially enjoyed the multiple points of view, which added depth to the characters. If you enjoy character-driven suspense with plenty of twists, deception, and steadily building tension, this is definitely worth picking up.
May 16, 2026
Another twisty surprise from Nicole Annbury! In her 3rd novel, punk rocker Eris Edge returns to her hometown after her dreams of stardom crumble. We also meet love stuck Penny who calls into Eris’s show every night to talk relationships with her girls. Her dreams of her neighbor Tim and her undying love for him motivate her to keep going. He’ll notice her one day!
Eris now has another thing to talk to the girls about- the Side Swiper Killer has been on a killing spree on Highway 51. She warns the girls to be careful as the body count grows higher. Eris is also meeting with her arch rivals daughter, Lola, who is writing a tell all about her mother- who is right up there with Mommy Dearest for mother of the year and the reason for the downfall of Eris’s career. Lola, Eris, and Penny are the POVs we read this story from and are all well written characters who are flawed but become very easy to care about. As the story progresses we fjnd out who is behind these killings and how that impacts the 3 women we are following. I enjoyed Nicoles newest book and was immediately hooked. If you enjoyed her prior work I definitely recommend buckling up for You Can Leave!
Eris now has another thing to talk to the girls about- the Side Swiper Killer has been on a killing spree on Highway 51. She warns the girls to be careful as the body count grows higher. Eris is also meeting with her arch rivals daughter, Lola, who is writing a tell all about her mother- who is right up there with Mommy Dearest for mother of the year and the reason for the downfall of Eris’s career. Lola, Eris, and Penny are the POVs we read this story from and are all well written characters who are flawed but become very easy to care about. As the story progresses we fjnd out who is behind these killings and how that impacts the 3 women we are following. I enjoyed Nicoles newest book and was immediately hooked. If you enjoyed her prior work I definitely recommend buckling up for You Can Leave!
June 30, 2026
Dig too deep, and some secrets won’t stay buried.
Nicole Annbury is at the top of her game with her 3rd novel & I am patiently awaiting #4!
This is a suspense / thriller with multiple POVs, a twisted & entertaining plot as well as unpredictable with unforeseen twists. There are flawed characters and a mother you will love to hate. As the plot unfolded, I was enveloped in a sense of dread, unease, and tension. I actually felt each character’s emotions as if I was there with them.
Although this book had a lot of moving parts, everything came together seamlessly in the end.
If you like your novels filled with a web of lies, deceit, manipulation & at times brutal, then this is the novel for you.
If you haven’t read the author’s backlist (The Final Sentence & The Signature Line) you are missing out.
Favorite Line: “Her tears landed on the soft, padded head of her teddy, who dutifully did his job of soaking up all her sadness.”
Thank you Nicole for providing me with an eARC in exchange for my honest review.
Nicole Annbury is at the top of her game with her 3rd novel & I am patiently awaiting #4!
This is a suspense / thriller with multiple POVs, a twisted & entertaining plot as well as unpredictable with unforeseen twists. There are flawed characters and a mother you will love to hate. As the plot unfolded, I was enveloped in a sense of dread, unease, and tension. I actually felt each character’s emotions as if I was there with them.
Although this book had a lot of moving parts, everything came together seamlessly in the end.
If you like your novels filled with a web of lies, deceit, manipulation & at times brutal, then this is the novel for you.
If you haven’t read the author’s backlist (The Final Sentence & The Signature Line) you are missing out.
Favorite Line: “Her tears landed on the soft, padded head of her teddy, who dutifully did his job of soaking up all her sadness.”
Thank you Nicole for providing me with an eARC in exchange for my honest review.
August 25, 2026
This multi layer story pulls the reader in for a wild ride. Just when you think you’re rooting on the sidelines for one of the many horrible protagonists another bombshell gets dropped and you just have to buckle up and keep reading, letting this horrific mess to play out. The over arching theme of woman needing to be seen , some going to extremes, but constantly tearing each other down in the process is uncomfortable but unfortunately relevant to society. I very much enjoyed this novel and it was hard to put down even though at times I was reading through one eye with tears of shock and sadness.
September 3, 2026
Another absolutely thrilling pageturner from Nicole Annbury!
Despite her books’ flawed main characters, that are sometimes very hard to like, Annbury makes it impossible to put her books down. The psychological elements to her thrillers make her books truly stand out. You Can Leave is another one that leaves a gut punch in various places, especially because we realise we are all flawed and we can all be drawn into situations without knowing how we’ll respond under the ‘right’ circumstances. This is also what makes you turn page after page: what will happen next and what will they do?!
I already can’t wait for her next book!
Despite her books’ flawed main characters, that are sometimes very hard to like, Annbury makes it impossible to put her books down. The psychological elements to her thrillers make her books truly stand out. You Can Leave is another one that leaves a gut punch in various places, especially because we realise we are all flawed and we can all be drawn into situations without knowing how we’ll respond under the ‘right’ circumstances. This is also what makes you turn page after page: what will happen next and what will they do?!
I already can’t wait for her next book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
A washed-up punk rock star, a small town, and a serial killer stalking victims along Highway 51.
After a public meltdown and being replaced as the lead singer of her band, Eris Edge returns to Mount Falls as a late-night DJ in the summer of 1987, hoping for a quiet escape. Instead, she finds herself using her late-night radio show to warn listeners about a growing body count right outside her door.
Across town, fifteen-year-old Penny Brooks is desperate to escape her chaotic, toxic home life. Clinging to Eris’s late-night radio show for comfort, Penny has no idea the danger she’s following is much closer than she could ever imagine.
Decades later, Lola Dubois is determined to write a tell-all book that will destroy the reputation of her mother, Bargette—the woman who replaced Eris in the band. But when Lola reaches out to Eris to uncover the truth about the past, the secrets they unearth refuse to stay buried. In Mount Falls, the story of the Side Swiper Killer is deeply intertwined with all of their lives, and the truth is darker than anyone could have imagined.
You Can Leave perfectly blends an eerie atmosphere with a gripping serial killer mystery. Packed with fierce rivalries, simmering tension, and lingering trauma, it’s impossible not to get swept up in its web of secrets. The story’s structure keeps the suspense high, using short, fast-paced chapters and multiple perspectives, including chilling entries from the killer’s personal journal.
The writing is vivid and immersive, bringing every scene to life. I quickly became invested in these characters, making the manipulation, heartbreak, and devastating downward spirals hit even harder.
I spent the entire book convinced the killer could be almost anyone—except the actual culprit. The major reveal blindsided me, and watching every carefully planted clue fall into place was incredibly satisfying. Looking back, everything was there from the beginning, hidden in plain sight.
You Can Leave is an addictive thriller filled with shocking twists and relentless suspense, making it nearly impossible to put down.
For more reviews and bookish content, follow me on Instagram @petes_bookshelf.
After a public meltdown and being replaced as the lead singer of her band, Eris Edge returns to Mount Falls as a late-night DJ in the summer of 1987, hoping for a quiet escape. Instead, she finds herself using her late-night radio show to warn listeners about a growing body count right outside her door.
Across town, fifteen-year-old Penny Brooks is desperate to escape her chaotic, toxic home life. Clinging to Eris’s late-night radio show for comfort, Penny has no idea the danger she’s following is much closer than she could ever imagine.
Decades later, Lola Dubois is determined to write a tell-all book that will destroy the reputation of her mother, Bargette—the woman who replaced Eris in the band. But when Lola reaches out to Eris to uncover the truth about the past, the secrets they unearth refuse to stay buried. In Mount Falls, the story of the Side Swiper Killer is deeply intertwined with all of their lives, and the truth is darker than anyone could have imagined.
You Can Leave perfectly blends an eerie atmosphere with a gripping serial killer mystery. Packed with fierce rivalries, simmering tension, and lingering trauma, it’s impossible not to get swept up in its web of secrets. The story’s structure keeps the suspense high, using short, fast-paced chapters and multiple perspectives, including chilling entries from the killer’s personal journal.
The writing is vivid and immersive, bringing every scene to life. I quickly became invested in these characters, making the manipulation, heartbreak, and devastating downward spirals hit even harder.
I spent the entire book convinced the killer could be almost anyone—except the actual culprit. The major reveal blindsided me, and watching every carefully planted clue fall into place was incredibly satisfying. Looking back, everything was there from the beginning, hidden in plain sight.
You Can Leave is an addictive thriller filled with shocking twists and relentless suspense, making it nearly impossible to put down.
For more reviews and bookish content, follow me on Instagram @petes_bookshelf.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
You Can Leave is a gritty, slow‑burn thriller that sinks its hooks in early and keeps tightening them with every chapter. Nicole Annbury blends true‑crime energy with character‑driven suspense, creating a story that feels both nostalgic and razor‑sharp.
Eris Edge is a standout protagonist—messy, magnetic, and impossible not to root for. Her fall from punk‑rock fame and return to Mount Falls gives the book a wonderfully moody backdrop, and her late‑night radio show becomes the perfect conduit for tension as the Side Swiper Killer closes in. The 1987 timeline is vivid and atmospheric, full of small‑town grit and the kind of fear that creeps in through the cracks.
The alternating perspectives add real depth. Penny’s vulnerability and longing make her chapters quietly heartbreaking, while Lola’s determination to expose her mother’s secrets brings a fresh, modern edge. As their stories intersect with Eris’s past, the mystery deepens in a way that feels organic and unsettling. Annbury excels at revealing just enough to keep you guessing while never tipping her hand too early.
The pacing builds steadily—more simmer than sprint—and the payoff is worth it. Secrets refuse to stay buried, danger presses closer with every page, and the final revelations hit with satisfying force. It’s a thriller that balances plot twists with emotional weight, giving you characters you genuinely care about amid the darkness.
A tense, atmospheric read with strong character work and a haunting sense of place. Fans of layered, slow‑burn suspense will find plenty to love here.
With thanks to Nicole Annbury, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Eris Edge is a standout protagonist—messy, magnetic, and impossible not to root for. Her fall from punk‑rock fame and return to Mount Falls gives the book a wonderfully moody backdrop, and her late‑night radio show becomes the perfect conduit for tension as the Side Swiper Killer closes in. The 1987 timeline is vivid and atmospheric, full of small‑town grit and the kind of fear that creeps in through the cracks.
The alternating perspectives add real depth. Penny’s vulnerability and longing make her chapters quietly heartbreaking, while Lola’s determination to expose her mother’s secrets brings a fresh, modern edge. As their stories intersect with Eris’s past, the mystery deepens in a way that feels organic and unsettling. Annbury excels at revealing just enough to keep you guessing while never tipping her hand too early.
The pacing builds steadily—more simmer than sprint—and the payoff is worth it. Secrets refuse to stay buried, danger presses closer with every page, and the final revelations hit with satisfying force. It’s a thriller that balances plot twists with emotional weight, giving you characters you genuinely care about amid the darkness.
A tense, atmospheric read with strong character work and a haunting sense of place. Fans of layered, slow‑burn suspense will find plenty to love here.
With thanks to Nicole Annbury, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Review of advance copy received from Author
"Most serial killers feel betrayed by someone."
Nicole Annbury's third novel, YOU CAN LEAVE, had me on a roller coaster ride of emotions. Not only was this book packed with her signature suspenseful small-town crime vibes, but readers also get a deep dive into the mind of a killer. The psychological depth of Annbury's characters is flawless -- definitely constructed from someone who has studied human behavior. There are many layers to this tale ... Not only do we have the mystery of the Side Swipe Killer, but there are three complex mother-daughter relationships woven into the fabric of each character's arc.
The gripping cliffhanger-style chapter endings made it difficult to put it down; every chapter led to another reveal that propelled me forward. I loved the multiple-POV structure and the unique addition of serial killer journal entries, which reminded me of the TV series "I Am A Killer." I found myself actually understanding the intentions behind the killer's cruel acts.
You'll absolutely eat this book up if you want nuanced relationship dynamics to go along with your suspense. Also, if you're a fan of 90s grunge and punk rock, the character Eris Edge will speak to you! I loved reading about the mercurial music industry. The way Annbury describes the insanity and disappointments associated with being a working artist definitely amplified the pressure cooker-like feel.
Keep the darkness coming! I'm excited to see what Annbury has up her sleeve next!
Nicole Annbury's third novel, YOU CAN LEAVE, had me on a roller coaster ride of emotions. Not only was this book packed with her signature suspenseful small-town crime vibes, but readers also get a deep dive into the mind of a killer. The psychological depth of Annbury's characters is flawless -- definitely constructed from someone who has studied human behavior. There are many layers to this tale ... Not only do we have the mystery of the Side Swipe Killer, but there are three complex mother-daughter relationships woven into the fabric of each character's arc.
The gripping cliffhanger-style chapter endings made it difficult to put it down; every chapter led to another reveal that propelled me forward. I loved the multiple-POV structure and the unique addition of serial killer journal entries, which reminded me of the TV series "I Am A Killer." I found myself actually understanding the intentions behind the killer's cruel acts.
You'll absolutely eat this book up if you want nuanced relationship dynamics to go along with your suspense. Also, if you're a fan of 90s grunge and punk rock, the character Eris Edge will speak to you! I loved reading about the mercurial music industry. The way Annbury describes the insanity and disappointments associated with being a working artist definitely amplified the pressure cooker-like feel.
Keep the darkness coming! I'm excited to see what Annbury has up her sleeve next!
August 28, 2026
This was a book I really wanted to love, especially after reading the synopsis, which promised a dark and intriguing mystery surrounding the Side Swiper Killer. Unfortunately, I found that the story didn’t quite live up to the promise of its premise.
The book follows three different threads — Lola’s present-day investigation, Penny’s story in 1987, and excerpts from the Side Swiper Killer’s journal — and while I appreciated the different perspectives, I struggled to see how all the pieces connected. Penny’s storyline in particular felt somewhat disconnected from the main plot. It takes up a significant portion of the book, but I found myself waiting for her story to become more relevant to the bigger picture, and ultimately felt that it didn’t have the resolution or payoff I was expecting.
I also found the overall story quite disjointed at times, and unfortunately, the mystery didn’t deliver the big revelations I was hoping for. The identity of the killer felt fairly predictable, and some of the secrets and twists didn’t have the impact I was anticipating. By the time everything came together, I was left wanting a little more.
Lola’s storyline also didn’t quite give me the satisfying conclusion I was hoping for, which made the ending feel somewhat underwhelming.
There were definitely elements I enjoyed, particularly the eerie small-town atmosphere, the 1980s setting and the concept of the radio show
The book follows three different threads — Lola’s present-day investigation, Penny’s story in 1987, and excerpts from the Side Swiper Killer’s journal — and while I appreciated the different perspectives, I struggled to see how all the pieces connected. Penny’s storyline in particular felt somewhat disconnected from the main plot. It takes up a significant portion of the book, but I found myself waiting for her story to become more relevant to the bigger picture, and ultimately felt that it didn’t have the resolution or payoff I was expecting.
I also found the overall story quite disjointed at times, and unfortunately, the mystery didn’t deliver the big revelations I was hoping for. The identity of the killer felt fairly predictable, and some of the secrets and twists didn’t have the impact I was anticipating. By the time everything came together, I was left wanting a little more.
Lola’s storyline also didn’t quite give me the satisfying conclusion I was hoping for, which made the ending feel somewhat underwhelming.
There were definitely elements I enjoyed, particularly the eerie small-town atmosphere, the 1980s setting and the concept of the radio show
Review of advance copy received from Author
What a dark and disturbing little gem this turned out to be! I’m grateful to Nicole Annbury for welcoming me onto her ARC team.
Set in 1987, “You Can Leave” takes readers to Mount Falls, Illinois, where a serial killer is targeting victims along Highway 51. Former punk rocker Eris Edge is back in her hometown, working as a late-night radio DJ and warning listeners about the growing body count. Meanwhile, fifteen-year-old Penny Brooks clings to Eris’s show as an escape from her chaotic home life, unaware that the danger may be much closer than she realizes.
This story pulls me in with its deliciously creepy atmosphere, complicated characters, and growing sense that everyone is hiding something. The small-town setting feels claustrophobic, the retro details add plenty of personality, and the late-night radio element is absolute thriller catnip.
I enjoyed the emotional depth behind the mystery. These characters are flawed, damaged, and carrying enough baggage to fill an airport terminal. Their choices are not always practical, but they feel human, which makes the danger surrounding them hit even harder. The plot unfolds through layers of secrets, betrayals, and so much buried history!
Dark, atmospheric, and packed with suspense, “You Can Leave” blends serial-killer terror, small-town secrets, and emotional turmoil into one seriously addictive read.
Set in 1987, “You Can Leave” takes readers to Mount Falls, Illinois, where a serial killer is targeting victims along Highway 51. Former punk rocker Eris Edge is back in her hometown, working as a late-night radio DJ and warning listeners about the growing body count. Meanwhile, fifteen-year-old Penny Brooks clings to Eris’s show as an escape from her chaotic home life, unaware that the danger may be much closer than she realizes.
This story pulls me in with its deliciously creepy atmosphere, complicated characters, and growing sense that everyone is hiding something. The small-town setting feels claustrophobic, the retro details add plenty of personality, and the late-night radio element is absolute thriller catnip.
I enjoyed the emotional depth behind the mystery. These characters are flawed, damaged, and carrying enough baggage to fill an airport terminal. Their choices are not always practical, but they feel human, which makes the danger surrounding them hit even harder. The plot unfolds through layers of secrets, betrayals, and so much buried history!
Dark, atmospheric, and packed with suspense, “You Can Leave” blends serial-killer terror, small-town secrets, and emotional turmoil into one seriously addictive read.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I definitely had a time with this one! Nicole Annbury is officially an auto-buy author of mine. This is my third read by her, and I have yet to be disappointed. Although there were many highlights in this story, if I had to say what was my favorite, it would be the journal chapters from the k i l l e r.. hearing those direct thoughts straight from the horses mouth kept me intrigued and suspenseful at the same time.
I also enjoyed the alternating timelines that took place in the summer of 1987 (when m u r d e r s took place) and during the interviews conducted by Lola. Mount Falls was forever tarnished by these heinous acts, and trying to figure out who was responsible, kept me turning into pages at a rapid pace. The multiple POVs were also a nice addition. Lola & Eris brought a completely different perspective to the story! Overall, another amazing read by this author.
📆 Publication Date: 8/13/26
I also enjoyed the alternating timelines that took place in the summer of 1987 (when m u r d e r s took place) and during the interviews conducted by Lola. Mount Falls was forever tarnished by these heinous acts, and trying to figure out who was responsible, kept me turning into pages at a rapid pace. The multiple POVs were also a nice addition. Lola & Eris brought a completely different perspective to the story! Overall, another amazing read by this author.
📆 Publication Date: 8/13/26
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an Advanced Review Copy of this book from the author and I am leaving my honest review.
You Can Leave was a dark, nostalgic thriller that perfectly captured the eerie feel of a small town living in fear. The 1987 setting, mixed with the late-night radio show and punk rock atmosphere, gave the story a unique vibe that immediately pulled me in.
I really enjoyed how the story was told through multiple perspectives. Eris was such an interesting, flawed character, and Penny and Lola's chapters added an emotional layer that made the danger feel even more personal. The mystery surrounding the Side Swiper Killer kept me guessing, and there were several twists I didn't see coming.
The ending was satisfying, creepy, and tied the past and present together in a way that made all the pieces click.
If you enjoy atmospheric small-town mysteries, serial killer thrillers, and stories with strong nostalgia, this one is definitely worth picking up.
You Can Leave was a dark, nostalgic thriller that perfectly captured the eerie feel of a small town living in fear. The 1987 setting, mixed with the late-night radio show and punk rock atmosphere, gave the story a unique vibe that immediately pulled me in.
I really enjoyed how the story was told through multiple perspectives. Eris was such an interesting, flawed character, and Penny and Lola's chapters added an emotional layer that made the danger feel even more personal. The mystery surrounding the Side Swiper Killer kept me guessing, and there were several twists I didn't see coming.
The ending was satisfying, creepy, and tied the past and present together in a way that made all the pieces click.
If you enjoy atmospheric small-town mysteries, serial killer thrillers, and stories with strong nostalgia, this one is definitely worth picking up.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to Nicole Annbury for the advanced copy of You Can Leave.
Punk rocker Eris Edge returns to her hometown of Mount Falls, Illinois, after being betrayed by her former band. She lands a job as a DJ at her brother's radio station, which has a dedicated fan base.
Across town, Penny listens to her favorite radio personality with her friends on the chat line. They gossip about everything, usually boys.
A serial killer is on the loose, and everyone's life is upended.
Years later, Lola Dubois is writing a tell-all book about her mother, Eris Edge’s sworn enemy. Lola and Eris form an unlikely union to bring down the same person. It all unfolds from there.
You Can Leave is a Tilt-A-Whirl with plenty of twists and turns! The story is told from multiple points of view (Eris, Lola, Penny, and the Side Swiper Killer).
It's a definite for thriller readers and comes highly endorsed by me. I loved it!
Punk rocker Eris Edge returns to her hometown of Mount Falls, Illinois, after being betrayed by her former band. She lands a job as a DJ at her brother's radio station, which has a dedicated fan base.
Across town, Penny listens to her favorite radio personality with her friends on the chat line. They gossip about everything, usually boys.
A serial killer is on the loose, and everyone's life is upended.
Years later, Lola Dubois is writing a tell-all book about her mother, Eris Edge’s sworn enemy. Lola and Eris form an unlikely union to bring down the same person. It all unfolds from there.
You Can Leave is a Tilt-A-Whirl with plenty of twists and turns! The story is told from multiple points of view (Eris, Lola, Penny, and the Side Swiper Killer).
It's a definite for thriller readers and comes highly endorsed by me. I loved it!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book took me a little bit to get into, but when I did, I enjoyed it. It is told in the POV of Lola, Eris, Penny and journal entries of someone that will be revealed. It goes between two timelines of 1987 and the present. I enjoy books written this way because it slowly brings things together. Eric’s Edge returns to her hometown after she is removed from her punk rock band due to an unfortunate incident. She is very bitter because this was her dream. She becomes a DJ for the local radio station and keeps everyone updated on the Side Swiped Killer of Highway 51. Just when you think you have it figured out another twist comes and you are looking at someone else. Almost everyone is a suspect at some point. When the killer is revealed, it is a shock!
Thank you to Nicole Annbury for this advance reader copy.
Thank you to Nicole Annbury for this advance reader copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Ever read a book and then look at the reviews and scratch your head? That is me with this book. With 3 main characters, the reader bounces between 3 annoying people. The stories have no solid connection and I couldn't really understand how Lola connected to Penny since her only source of information would have been what Eris shared with her. Penny's part of the book was read by the reader, but not the other characters. (Make sense?) Speaking of Penny, wow did she annoy me! Was I like that as a teenager? If so, I am so sorry to those around me! A quarter of the way through the book and I was already so tired of Penny and her angst. Likewise, Lola's attachment to Eris was really weird. I kept thinking that might come out as a reveal of some kind, but no.
Thanks to NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for a copy of the book. This review is my own opinion.
Thanks to NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for a copy of the book. This review is my own opinion.
Review of advance copy
Y’all, You Can Leave is a gritty, neon-soaked ride through small-town secrets, punk-rock betrayal, and one deadly summer.
After an onstage meltdown boots Eris Edge from her band, she returns to Mount Falls as a sultry-voiced DJ warning listeners about the Side Swiper Killer stalking Highway 51. Meanwhile, lonely fifteen-year-old Penny Brooks finds comfort in Eris’s broadcasts—until dangery creeps closer than static on the radio. Years later, Lola Dubois starts digging, and honey, those buried secrets come crawling out with claws.
Nicole Annbury’s writing is atmospheric, sharp, and deliciously dark, weaving past and present like a mixtape filled with murder, heartbreak, and bad decisions. Eris is messy, magnetic, and impossible to ignore. This one crackles with retro menace and enough twists to make your cassette tape unravel. 📻🔪
After an onstage meltdown boots Eris Edge from her band, she returns to Mount Falls as a sultry-voiced DJ warning listeners about the Side Swiper Killer stalking Highway 51. Meanwhile, lonely fifteen-year-old Penny Brooks finds comfort in Eris’s broadcasts—until dangery creeps closer than static on the radio. Years later, Lola Dubois starts digging, and honey, those buried secrets come crawling out with claws.
Nicole Annbury’s writing is atmospheric, sharp, and deliciously dark, weaving past and present like a mixtape filled with murder, heartbreak, and bad decisions. Eris is messy, magnetic, and impossible to ignore. This one crackles with retro menace and enough twists to make your cassette tape unravel. 📻🔪
August 17, 2026
It all makes sense.
YOU CAN LEAVE
When you have various POVs, characters with multiple names, unreliable narrators, retellings of scenes, unidentified narrators and various storylines, it's a lot to mix into a cohesive story... This was successfully achieved 🤘 All of these characters are a love-hate group of women. You want to feel for Penny, hate for Eris, have faith for Lola, question the journal author and loathe Bargette.... They all have such critical roles and in the end, it all makes sense.
YOU CAN LEAVE
I struggled wondering how an ex-rocker/former DJ, a love struck 17 year old, rockstar's daughter, and a murderer would all play out especially since we have two storylines and characters are also retelling their sides. But, it all makes sense.
YOU CAN LEAVE
YOU CAN LEAVE
When you have various POVs, characters with multiple names, unreliable narrators, retellings of scenes, unidentified narrators and various storylines, it's a lot to mix into a cohesive story... This was successfully achieved 🤘 All of these characters are a love-hate group of women. You want to feel for Penny, hate for Eris, have faith for Lola, question the journal author and loathe Bargette.... They all have such critical roles and in the end, it all makes sense.
YOU CAN LEAVE
I struggled wondering how an ex-rocker/former DJ, a love struck 17 year old, rockstar's daughter, and a murderer would all play out especially since we have two storylines and characters are also retelling their sides. But, it all makes sense.
YOU CAN LEAVE
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
This is the third book by author Nicole Annbury that I’ve had the pleasure to read in advance. Nicole knows how to keep your attention on her characters and then BAM, she throws you a curve ... or two or three. I thought for sure I had figured out one of the side plots, but boy was I wrong. You genuinely get invested with her characters almost immediately and despite how they start out, they rarely go in the direction you think they’re headed - which keeps you entirely engaged and on your toes. I thoroughly enjoyed “You Can Leave” and I’m confident any casual and/or seasoned reader will love it as well. I can’t wait for book #4!
Review of advance copy received from Author
So I've just finished my latest ARC - You Can Leave by Nicole Annbury, and I absolutely LOVED it!
We follow Lola who's doing research for a book and discovers ALOT more than she ever expected to uncover. We follow her through the rollercoaster of uncovering the truth about things she never knew about.
This book grabs you from the moment you start, the character exploration is deep and well written and you find yourself feeling all sorts of things for every character in the book. I definitely gasped a few times, my heart broke a few times and I always wanted to know and understand more about the entire story.
Absolutely loved this one!
Due for release August 13th 2025
We follow Lola who's doing research for a book and discovers ALOT more than she ever expected to uncover. We follow her through the rollercoaster of uncovering the truth about things she never knew about.
This book grabs you from the moment you start, the character exploration is deep and well written and you find yourself feeling all sorts of things for every character in the book. I definitely gasped a few times, my heart broke a few times and I always wanted to know and understand more about the entire story.
Absolutely loved this one!
Due for release August 13th 2025
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This review is for an ARC copy received from the publisher through NetGalley.
You Can Leave is a fairly easy reading thriller. It's not a very deep piece of literature, but does have multiple plot twists the farther the book goes on. While I found the prose easy to get through, I found all the main characters to be unlikable one-dimensional caricatures, especially the main one, Lola, who was insufferably over-emotional and ridiculously weak. There also got to be a point about a third of the way through where the narrative was repetitive and could have had a lot cut out to make for a tighter story.
You Can Leave is a fairly easy reading thriller. It's not a very deep piece of literature, but does have multiple plot twists the farther the book goes on. While I found the prose easy to get through, I found all the main characters to be unlikable one-dimensional caricatures, especially the main one, Lola, who was insufferably over-emotional and ridiculously weak. There also got to be a point about a third of the way through where the narrative was repetitive and could have had a lot cut out to make for a tighter story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was another great read! The characters came to life on the page, especially Lola and Eris Edge. I enjoyed the dual timeline and different POVs in this story.
Nicole also weaved in letters from the antagonist to give insight into the mind of a serial K*ller, which I thought was a great addition to the overall thrill. It helped to give me a deeper understanding of the why behind what was going on and in the end, gave me a much different perspective on the character than I had going in.
Overall, this was a fast read for me and I enjoyed every word of it. Bravo, Nicole!
Nicole also weaved in letters from the antagonist to give insight into the mind of a serial K*ller, which I thought was a great addition to the overall thrill. It helped to give me a deeper understanding of the why behind what was going on and in the end, gave me a much different perspective on the character than I had going in.
Overall, this was a fast read for me and I enjoyed every word of it. Bravo, Nicole!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This author has an amazing story telling ability. YOU CAN LEAVE is a suspenseful thriller full of twists, complex characters, and emotional engagement that left me shaken with disbelief at what just happened. I never knew what could happen next, and I hung on to every word. I found myself feeling empathy for many of the characters. Although a work of fiction, the story and characters are about as real life as can be, and for that I will not forget this book and the way it shook me to my core. An incredible work.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op and NetGalley for the advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
This one was fun! It started off a little slow for me, but once it got going, I was hooked. I really liked the multiple POVs and the journal entries…they added a lot to the mystery and kept me wanting to know what was going to happen next.
The twists were well done, and I thought the characters were memorable. Overall, this was a solid thriller that kept me guessing.
This one was fun! It started off a little slow for me, but once it got going, I was hooked. I really liked the multiple POVs and the journal entries…they added a lot to the mystery and kept me wanting to know what was going to happen next.
The twists were well done, and I thought the characters were memorable. Overall, this was a solid thriller that kept me guessing.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was a 3.5 ⭐ for me. I think I'm in the minority on rating this one. I had a really hard time with the beginning of the book. The characters weren't very relatable to me and I think that's why I struggled to pick it up and continue. The overall story was well written and it flowed just fine. I just struggle to stay interested. This was my first book by this other, but I will definitely try one of her others.
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