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When You Looked Away
Not yet published
Expected 9 Jul 26It’s every mother’s worst nightmare.
Your son is gone.
And everyone’s a suspect…
Laura’s a good mother.
Between her messy divorce with her ex-husband, and moving in with her new fiancé, her son Benjy has been her constant.
But now that they’re settled, Laura is excited to throw herself back into work.
Being a mother is fulfilling, but Laura has always felt that writing is her true calling. Her ultimate escape.
Until that fateful day. The afternoon starts like any other. Laura picks Benjy up from school, then heads upstairs to write.
It’s not until the sun is setting that she realises the house is quiet. Too quiet.
It’s not until she sees the footprints in the garden that she knows something is terribly wrong.
One set is undeniably Benjy’s. It’s the other set that strikes fear in her heart – those of an adult.
Someone who took her son, right from under her nose…
Your son is gone.
And everyone’s a suspect…
Laura’s a good mother.
Between her messy divorce with her ex-husband, and moving in with her new fiancé, her son Benjy has been her constant.
But now that they’re settled, Laura is excited to throw herself back into work.
Being a mother is fulfilling, but Laura has always felt that writing is her true calling. Her ultimate escape.
Until that fateful day. The afternoon starts like any other. Laura picks Benjy up from school, then heads upstairs to write.
It’s not until the sun is setting that she realises the house is quiet. Too quiet.
It’s not until she sees the footprints in the garden that she knows something is terribly wrong.
One set is undeniably Benjy’s. It’s the other set that strikes fear in her heart – those of an adult.
Someone who took her son, right from under her nose…
- GenresThriller
Kindle Edition
Expected publication July 9, 2026
About the author
S.M. Govett
2 books54 followersS. Govett graduated from Oxford University with a First in Law. She qualified as a solicitor in a top London law firm but soon grew disenchanted with the corporate world. She set up her own tutoring agency which gave her the idea for her first YA novel The Territory. The Territory won the TSBA in 2018 and the Gateshead Teen Book Award and the trilogy still frequently tops the most borrowed books lists in British school libraries. She has written other Young Adult novels, including the TSBA-shortlisted We Go On Forever and co-wrote the feature film - T.I.M. – a thriller which premiered on Netflix UK in August 2023, reaching number one in their most watched films list. She lives in London with her husband and three children.
source: Amazon
source: Amazon
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
May 21, 2026
4.5 rounded up
DI Helen Stratton #2
Sometimes life imitates art.
Successful crime novelist Laura is in the attic, deeply focused on the latest chapter of her novel. She reflects on her situation, moving on from an acrimonious divorce, her fresh start with fiancé Ted, whilst downstairs her beloved son Benjy plays quietly on his PlayStation or watches TV. As the sun goes down, it occurs to her that the house is quiet – too quiet. She calls for Benjy, there’s no answer and she frantically searches the house and then the garden. As she dials 999, she notices two sets of footprints by the garden gate which leads into Sheen Woods. One set is large and the other small and she comes to the shocking realisation that someone has taken her son right from under her nose. DI Stratton is placed in charge of the investigation and as the case deepens in complexity, she realises no one can be trusted – not even Laura. The story is told by Stratton and Laura.
This is another gripping read from SM Govett. It’s character driven, has multiple layers but much of the focus is on trust or the lack of it. Stratton has lost hers because of the last case and issues in her personal life, Laura‘s trust in her ex-husband is zero to none, her trust in Ted waivers and let’s say in Benjy‘s case that those he should be able to trust, perhaps he can’t.
The characterisation is very strong, it’s hard to get a handle on some characters particularly Laura who is an enigma but that’s what makes it so fascinating. I love Stratton’s inner dialogues, they feel so real and true to life. She’s very hard on herself, justifiably or not. She’s got quite the temper on her and she can be acerbic and sarcastic, but equally she’s honest and can be funny. She’s certainly never dull.
The pot is clever, there’s almost a plot within a plot by Laura and her writing and there are some excellent scenes via this. It’s not especially fast paced but that suits the themes and the unfolding drama and makes for compelling reading. The are plenty of twists and turns with a couple of revelations that make my jaw hit the floor with a resounding thud. The ending is very good with the suspense continuing right to the very end. Roll on number three.
This is a series. I can highly recommend.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Michael Joseph for the much appreciated early copy and return for an honest review.
DI Helen Stratton #2
Sometimes life imitates art.
Successful crime novelist Laura is in the attic, deeply focused on the latest chapter of her novel. She reflects on her situation, moving on from an acrimonious divorce, her fresh start with fiancé Ted, whilst downstairs her beloved son Benjy plays quietly on his PlayStation or watches TV. As the sun goes down, it occurs to her that the house is quiet – too quiet. She calls for Benjy, there’s no answer and she frantically searches the house and then the garden. As she dials 999, she notices two sets of footprints by the garden gate which leads into Sheen Woods. One set is large and the other small and she comes to the shocking realisation that someone has taken her son right from under her nose. DI Stratton is placed in charge of the investigation and as the case deepens in complexity, she realises no one can be trusted – not even Laura. The story is told by Stratton and Laura.
This is another gripping read from SM Govett. It’s character driven, has multiple layers but much of the focus is on trust or the lack of it. Stratton has lost hers because of the last case and issues in her personal life, Laura‘s trust in her ex-husband is zero to none, her trust in Ted waivers and let’s say in Benjy‘s case that those he should be able to trust, perhaps he can’t.
The characterisation is very strong, it’s hard to get a handle on some characters particularly Laura who is an enigma but that’s what makes it so fascinating. I love Stratton’s inner dialogues, they feel so real and true to life. She’s very hard on herself, justifiably or not. She’s got quite the temper on her and she can be acerbic and sarcastic, but equally she’s honest and can be funny. She’s certainly never dull.
The pot is clever, there’s almost a plot within a plot by Laura and her writing and there are some excellent scenes via this. It’s not especially fast paced but that suits the themes and the unfolding drama and makes for compelling reading. The are plenty of twists and turns with a couple of revelations that make my jaw hit the floor with a resounding thud. The ending is very good with the suspense continuing right to the very end. Roll on number three.
This is a series. I can highly recommend.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Michael Joseph for the much appreciated early copy and return for an honest review.
May 26, 2026
This was so so good, I was absolutely captivated, I couldn’t put the book down and finished it in two sittings. This was a hard read, a difficult subject but incredibly well written with plot twists that I didn’t expect. I didn’t know who to trust throughout. It was good to be back with DI Stratton! A must read!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
When You Looked Away by S. M. Govett is the latest Detective Inspector Stratton thriller which was given to me as an advanced copy by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for this honest and impartial review.
Stratton is the archetypal, forthright detective, fighting her own inner demons as a female detective within a misogynistic Police Force. Having joined the Police after her teenage sister went missing years earlier where she and her mother both felt the Police could have done more for them in their hour of need, she is continuously battling to do all she can for every victim she comes into contact with.
The story starts with Laura, who is a bestselling novelist whose crime novels are the result of her immersing herself entirely in her stories at the expense of all other aspects of her life, including her role as mother of her 11-year-old son, Benjy.
After awakening from her dedicative workstate one evening she realises that the house is silent, there’s been no sign or sound of Benjy for hours and she cannot find him in her home. As the front door is still latched, she searches for signs of Benjy in the rear garden of her home, which borders the local woodland. She finds the lock on the back gate has been removed and the usually squeaky latch itself has been cleaned and oiled. All of which is particularly strange, but it is only when Laura notices two sets of footprints in the muddy ground, leading away from her garden; one large, adult size set together with a smaller set, presumably belonging to Benjy, that she begins to believe something could be horribly wrong.
Once Stratton is assigned the case, it quickly becomes more than a missing persons investigation. Between the remarkably emotionally distant mother, her blustering and arrogant ex-husband and Laura’s new fiancé who seems to have a secretive past of his own, unravelling what has happened to Benjy is not an easy task, and she is thwarted by misdirection and false leads throughout. This is compounded further when an illicit relationship of Stratton herself re-ignites, just whilst her own mother is seriously ill, and the pressure builds unbearably upon Stratton. Will she solve the case, or will she reach her boiling point beforehand?
When reading this review, you’ll be forgiven for feeling that there are a handful of cliches included in the storyline, and to be honest I’d agree that this is well founded. However, what separates this story from a run of the mill pulp thriller is the emotional depth designated to the mother’s untenable situation. The unthinkable plight of a mother who has lost her sibling is sensitively dealt with but also with a level of detail which adds to the feeling of vulnerability for the reader. This also helps deliver some additional and welcome plot twists which are generated from the emotional and passionate distress of a mother who will do everything in her power to find out what has happened to her son.
I felt that the first instalment of the DI Stratton series; Believe, suffered from a couple of implausible plot twists and character reactions, which are not the case this time around. The ending is poignantly distressing but still plausible, nicely wrapping up the loose ends credibly.
I felt Believe was a strong 3.5 star read, rounded up to 4 stars for a debut author. When You Looked Away firmly earns a ⭐⭐⭐⭐ on its own merit. S. M. Govett is an author to follow!
Stratton is the archetypal, forthright detective, fighting her own inner demons as a female detective within a misogynistic Police Force. Having joined the Police after her teenage sister went missing years earlier where she and her mother both felt the Police could have done more for them in their hour of need, she is continuously battling to do all she can for every victim she comes into contact with.
The story starts with Laura, who is a bestselling novelist whose crime novels are the result of her immersing herself entirely in her stories at the expense of all other aspects of her life, including her role as mother of her 11-year-old son, Benjy.
After awakening from her dedicative workstate one evening she realises that the house is silent, there’s been no sign or sound of Benjy for hours and she cannot find him in her home. As the front door is still latched, she searches for signs of Benjy in the rear garden of her home, which borders the local woodland. She finds the lock on the back gate has been removed and the usually squeaky latch itself has been cleaned and oiled. All of which is particularly strange, but it is only when Laura notices two sets of footprints in the muddy ground, leading away from her garden; one large, adult size set together with a smaller set, presumably belonging to Benjy, that she begins to believe something could be horribly wrong.
Once Stratton is assigned the case, it quickly becomes more than a missing persons investigation. Between the remarkably emotionally distant mother, her blustering and arrogant ex-husband and Laura’s new fiancé who seems to have a secretive past of his own, unravelling what has happened to Benjy is not an easy task, and she is thwarted by misdirection and false leads throughout. This is compounded further when an illicit relationship of Stratton herself re-ignites, just whilst her own mother is seriously ill, and the pressure builds unbearably upon Stratton. Will she solve the case, or will she reach her boiling point beforehand?
When reading this review, you’ll be forgiven for feeling that there are a handful of cliches included in the storyline, and to be honest I’d agree that this is well founded. However, what separates this story from a run of the mill pulp thriller is the emotional depth designated to the mother’s untenable situation. The unthinkable plight of a mother who has lost her sibling is sensitively dealt with but also with a level of detail which adds to the feeling of vulnerability for the reader. This also helps deliver some additional and welcome plot twists which are generated from the emotional and passionate distress of a mother who will do everything in her power to find out what has happened to her son.
I felt that the first instalment of the DI Stratton series; Believe, suffered from a couple of implausible plot twists and character reactions, which are not the case this time around. The ending is poignantly distressing but still plausible, nicely wrapping up the loose ends credibly.
I felt Believe was a strong 3.5 star read, rounded up to 4 stars for a debut author. When You Looked Away firmly earns a ⭐⭐⭐⭐ on its own merit. S. M. Govett is an author to follow!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Ooooh, this is good! I really enjoyed Govett’s last book ‘Believe’ so I was very keen to get my hands on a copy of this new one, and it did not disappoint.
Laura is divorced from her ex-husband Rich and now lives with her new fiancé Ted and her son Benjy. She is a writer and loves to write detective fiction books. Her new story is unsettling her as she keeps writing Benjy into the plot in the guise of the victim of her story. After picking Benjy up from school she has retired to the loft to continue writing her story while Benjy entertains himself downstairs – at 11, he can be trusted.
However, as darkness falls Laura realises that Benjy hasn’t asked for dinner so she goes in search of him…but the house is empty. Taking to the garden, she is alarmed to find the rusty gate sparkly clean and two sets of footprints leading into the forest, one clearly Benjy’s and the other unmistakably an adults.
Meanwhile, at the police station, DI Stratton is struggling with her dementia-stricken mother who is living in a care home. As a detective she doesn’t have a lot of time to visit her, and she feels the disapproval of the care home staff. Now her mum has pneumonia, and the hospital are chasing Stratton for a DNR order… Throw into this a complicated love life and now a missing child and every suspect having a cast iron alibi…
This is such a hard book to review without packing it full of spoilers! There are so many twists and turns as the story unfolds – people not who they seem, people with ulterior motives and a writer with a story to tell. The writing is sensational as you follow one trail of breadcrumbs to one conclusion only to have your hopes dashed as another piece of evidence points straight to someone else. Govett really knows how to keep a reader guessing! The reveal is as good as the reveal in the last book and I love that Stratton has put in another appearance.
Again, think ‘Gone Girl’ and Jo Nesbo books and you are not too far adrift of what this is. Govett is fast becoming a favourite author!!
Thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Laura is divorced from her ex-husband Rich and now lives with her new fiancé Ted and her son Benjy. She is a writer and loves to write detective fiction books. Her new story is unsettling her as she keeps writing Benjy into the plot in the guise of the victim of her story. After picking Benjy up from school she has retired to the loft to continue writing her story while Benjy entertains himself downstairs – at 11, he can be trusted.
However, as darkness falls Laura realises that Benjy hasn’t asked for dinner so she goes in search of him…but the house is empty. Taking to the garden, she is alarmed to find the rusty gate sparkly clean and two sets of footprints leading into the forest, one clearly Benjy’s and the other unmistakably an adults.
Meanwhile, at the police station, DI Stratton is struggling with her dementia-stricken mother who is living in a care home. As a detective she doesn’t have a lot of time to visit her, and she feels the disapproval of the care home staff. Now her mum has pneumonia, and the hospital are chasing Stratton for a DNR order… Throw into this a complicated love life and now a missing child and every suspect having a cast iron alibi…
This is such a hard book to review without packing it full of spoilers! There are so many twists and turns as the story unfolds – people not who they seem, people with ulterior motives and a writer with a story to tell. The writing is sensational as you follow one trail of breadcrumbs to one conclusion only to have your hopes dashed as another piece of evidence points straight to someone else. Govett really knows how to keep a reader guessing! The reveal is as good as the reveal in the last book and I love that Stratton has put in another appearance.
Again, think ‘Gone Girl’ and Jo Nesbo books and you are not too far adrift of what this is. Govett is fast becoming a favourite author!!
Thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 10, 2026
Unbelievably sad, When You Looked Away by S. M. Govett is a gripping, tense and deeply emotional thriller.
Laura is a practical yet somewhat distant mother. When her eleven-year-old son, Benjy, suddenly disappears from their home while Laura is alone writing in the attic, and a set of adult footprints are discovered leading away from the scene, a tragic and shocking chain of events begins to unfold.
The novel is immersive and compelling throughout. Laura is an engaging and sympathetic character, yet there is also something evasive about her that creates a persistent sense of unease, as though important details are being deliberately withheld. Every character feels unpredictable and faintly suspicious, which adds to the atmosphere of tension running through the novel. The twists continue right through to the final chapters, constantly shifting the reader’s perspective and making the eventual reveal both shocking and emotionally affecting.
This is also the second novel in the series and DI Stratton is a fantastic character. She is compelling, resilient and capable, while still feeling deeply human. The glimpses into her personal life add a sense of realism and highlight the wider pressures and emotional strain that come with her role. It gives the character greater depth and leaves plenty to build on in future books.
A skilful thriller that is tense, emotional and punishing in places. Readers of the genre will find a great deal to enjoy here.
Laura is a practical yet somewhat distant mother. When her eleven-year-old son, Benjy, suddenly disappears from their home while Laura is alone writing in the attic, and a set of adult footprints are discovered leading away from the scene, a tragic and shocking chain of events begins to unfold.
The novel is immersive and compelling throughout. Laura is an engaging and sympathetic character, yet there is also something evasive about her that creates a persistent sense of unease, as though important details are being deliberately withheld. Every character feels unpredictable and faintly suspicious, which adds to the atmosphere of tension running through the novel. The twists continue right through to the final chapters, constantly shifting the reader’s perspective and making the eventual reveal both shocking and emotionally affecting.
This is also the second novel in the series and DI Stratton is a fantastic character. She is compelling, resilient and capable, while still feeling deeply human. The glimpses into her personal life add a sense of realism and highlight the wider pressures and emotional strain that come with her role. It gives the character greater depth and leaves plenty to build on in future books.
A skilful thriller that is tense, emotional and punishing in places. Readers of the genre will find a great deal to enjoy here.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
5⭐️ Gripping, emotional, and impossible for me to put down
I was so excited to read When You Looked Away after thoroughly enjoying Believe, and I was absolutely thrilled to receive an ARC which I can honestly say did not disappoint.
From the very first page I was completely pulled me.The premise alone is every parent’s worst nightmare and the tension builds so quickly that I found myself flying through the pages, needing to know what had happened and staying up far later than I should have! The pacing was spot on intense, emotional, and full of that creeping unease that keeps you hooked and on edge.
Laura is such a compelling character and the way the story explores fear, guilt, and suspicion is incredibly well done. Everyone feels like a potential suspect and just when you think you’ve worked it out the story shifts again. I was constantly second guessing myself, which is exactly what I want from a thriller like this.
What really stood out for me was the emotional depth alongside the suspense. This isn’t just a fast paced thriller , it hits hard, especially towards the end. That ending was genuinely heartbreaking and stayed with me long after I finished.
This is a tense, addictive, and emotionally charged read that I would highly recommend. A must read for thriller fans.
I was so excited to read When You Looked Away after thoroughly enjoying Believe, and I was absolutely thrilled to receive an ARC which I can honestly say did not disappoint.
From the very first page I was completely pulled me.The premise alone is every parent’s worst nightmare and the tension builds so quickly that I found myself flying through the pages, needing to know what had happened and staying up far later than I should have! The pacing was spot on intense, emotional, and full of that creeping unease that keeps you hooked and on edge.
Laura is such a compelling character and the way the story explores fear, guilt, and suspicion is incredibly well done. Everyone feels like a potential suspect and just when you think you’ve worked it out the story shifts again. I was constantly second guessing myself, which is exactly what I want from a thriller like this.
What really stood out for me was the emotional depth alongside the suspense. This isn’t just a fast paced thriller , it hits hard, especially towards the end. That ending was genuinely heartbreaking and stayed with me long after I finished.
This is a tense, addictive, and emotionally charged read that I would highly recommend. A must read for thriller fans.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I’m just going to go ahead and say it: what a novel! It captivated me immediately and held me until the very last word. In short, Govett played me like a fiddle with twists and turns, second guesses, and doubt. Her engaging style and ability to develop every character is to be commended. Whether you liked them or loathed them, you were invested.
The novel opens when Laura, a crime writer, discovers her son Benjy has gone missing from the home she shares with her fiancé Ted. In her frantic search, she finds him dead in a stream. Assigned to the case is DI Helen Stratton, a character introduced in Govett’s debut book. It’s through their perspectives that we follow the policing and Laura’s unravelling.
The portrayal of Laura’s response to her child’s death highlights the debate around the double standards women are held to in society. She was expected to cry. She was late picking him up from school, etc. It’s her shortcomings that make you empathise with her.
The subplot involving Helen and her boss was engaging too. Her final decision is to be applauded as she took back control and I look forward to seeing more oof her in the future.
All in all, this is a brilliant thriller that deserves 5 stars.
The novel opens when Laura, a crime writer, discovers her son Benjy has gone missing from the home she shares with her fiancé Ted. In her frantic search, she finds him dead in a stream. Assigned to the case is DI Helen Stratton, a character introduced in Govett’s debut book. It’s through their perspectives that we follow the policing and Laura’s unravelling.
The portrayal of Laura’s response to her child’s death highlights the debate around the double standards women are held to in society. She was expected to cry. She was late picking him up from school, etc. It’s her shortcomings that make you empathise with her.
The subplot involving Helen and her boss was engaging too. Her final decision is to be applauded as she took back control and I look forward to seeing more oof her in the future.
All in all, this is a brilliant thriller that deserves 5 stars.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The second in the DI Stratton series and this one is a belter, even better than the first. Laura is divorced with an 11 year old son, has a new partner and is a successful crime writer. The novel begins with her engrossed in her work in her attic office, when she realises she hasn’t heard her son downstairs for a while. There’s no trace of him in the house, only a set of his footprints with an adult and a newly oiled lock on the back gate leading to the woods. DI Stratton is coping with her ailing mother in a care home and considering applying for promotion when she is put on the case.
The story is told from both viewpoints and I’m not going to say anything else about the plot to avoid any spoilers – there are so many twists and turns that it would be impossible not to give something away. It’s a gripping story and having one of the characters as a crime writer herself who is always trying to work out the plot of her own life is inspired. I read this in one sitting, finding it utterly impossible to put down. If you love a good thriller, this is one not to be missed.
Thanks to Netgalley, the author and publisher for an advance copy in return for an honest review.
The story is told from both viewpoints and I’m not going to say anything else about the plot to avoid any spoilers – there are so many twists and turns that it would be impossible not to give something away. It’s a gripping story and having one of the characters as a crime writer herself who is always trying to work out the plot of her own life is inspired. I read this in one sitting, finding it utterly impossible to put down. If you love a good thriller, this is one not to be missed.
Thanks to Netgalley, the author and publisher for an advance copy in return for an honest review.
May 26, 2026
A brilliantly crafted thriller that kept me guessing right until the final reveal.
The story begins with the tragic death of Benji, who is found drowned by his mother, Laura, a successful crime writer. Laura lives with Ted, a teacher who is hiding a past of his own, having previously lived under a different identity as Simon. From the outset, there are plenty of suspects, plenty of secrets, and more than enough motives to make you question everyone.
S. M. Govett expertly layers the mystery, introducing twists and red herrings that constantly challenge your assumptions. Just when I thought I had worked out who was responsible, another revelation sent me in a completely different direction.
The characters are complex and believable, the pacing is excellent, and the tension builds steadily throughout. What I enjoyed most was that the ending genuinely surprised me. The truth was not who I expected at all, yet when everything was revealed, it felt clever and completely earned.
A gripping psychological thriller full of secrets, lies and unexpected twists. If you enjoy books that keep you guessing until the very last chapter, this is an easy five-star read. 📚⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The story begins with the tragic death of Benji, who is found drowned by his mother, Laura, a successful crime writer. Laura lives with Ted, a teacher who is hiding a past of his own, having previously lived under a different identity as Simon. From the outset, there are plenty of suspects, plenty of secrets, and more than enough motives to make you question everyone.
S. M. Govett expertly layers the mystery, introducing twists and red herrings that constantly challenge your assumptions. Just when I thought I had worked out who was responsible, another revelation sent me in a completely different direction.
The characters are complex and believable, the pacing is excellent, and the tension builds steadily throughout. What I enjoyed most was that the ending genuinely surprised me. The truth was not who I expected at all, yet when everything was revealed, it felt clever and completely earned.
A gripping psychological thriller full of secrets, lies and unexpected twists. If you enjoy books that keep you guessing until the very last chapter, this is an easy five-star read. 📚⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Firstly, I just wanted to say thank you to Michael Joseph's NetGalley Catalogue and Penguin Random House, for the opportunity to read this advance copy of When You Looked Away by S M Govett. As I'm not a fan of spoilers, there wont be any in this review.
Wow what a lucky find this was, I am totally honoured to be given this arc. Although this is the second book in the series, it made no impact on reading it out of order. I completely gelled with the writing style and quickly found myself 'there' observing from the sidelines. Therevwas a subtle hint of humour throughout; just enough to lighten the intensity and allow me to catch my breath. The characters were amazing and for once, I feel like the book dovoured me rather than the other way around.
I absolutely loved it and can honestly say that this is the best book I have read so far this year. It is a 'must read' and I will be recommending it to everyone. My plan is to now plan to go back and read the first book by S M Govett. You may just have become my favourite author!
Wow what a lucky find this was, I am totally honoured to be given this arc. Although this is the second book in the series, it made no impact on reading it out of order. I completely gelled with the writing style and quickly found myself 'there' observing from the sidelines. Therevwas a subtle hint of humour throughout; just enough to lighten the intensity and allow me to catch my breath. The characters were amazing and for once, I feel like the book dovoured me rather than the other way around.
I absolutely loved it and can honestly say that this is the best book I have read so far this year. It is a 'must read' and I will be recommending it to everyone. My plan is to now plan to go back and read the first book by S M Govett. You may just have become my favourite author!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Another case for DI Stratton and her team - this time the drowning of an eleven-year-old boy in woods not far from his home.
The story is told from two perspectives - Stratton’s and the mother’s. She’s a crime writer, of all things, so cue a very meta aspect to the novel, as her life and her writing blurs. There’s plenty about writing as an atavistic act which, though interesting, was not as vivid for me as Stratton’s own narrative as she tracked down the killer.
Overall another well-written novel, though I personally felt the cast of characters (and therefore suspects) was a little too small. A couple of clues early on made it inevitable that the boy would have died the way he did - I expected a twist that did not come.
However, I very much enjoyed getting to know Stratton and the regular cast of characters better - especially Dev who has stepped into the role of Stratton’s partner.
Trigger warnings for child death and for dementia (not related to each other - separate topics touched on in the book).
In three words: poor little kid
The story is told from two perspectives - Stratton’s and the mother’s. She’s a crime writer, of all things, so cue a very meta aspect to the novel, as her life and her writing blurs. There’s plenty about writing as an atavistic act which, though interesting, was not as vivid for me as Stratton’s own narrative as she tracked down the killer.
Overall another well-written novel, though I personally felt the cast of characters (and therefore suspects) was a little too small. A couple of clues early on made it inevitable that the boy would have died the way he did - I expected a twist that did not come.
However, I very much enjoyed getting to know Stratton and the regular cast of characters better - especially Dev who has stepped into the role of Stratton’s partner.
Trigger warnings for child death and for dementia (not related to each other - separate topics touched on in the book).
In three words: poor little kid
April 27, 2026
I absolutely loved the author’s debut novel Believe, so was thrilled to have the opportunity to read When You Looked Away. Laura is a crime writer who one evening discovers that her 11 year old son Benjy is missing and DI Helen Stratton and her team are brought in to investigate.
This is another excellent, twisty novel from S.M.Govett, a superior police procedural that kept me guessing throughout.. It’s told from the dual perspectives of Laura and DI Stratton, the former being an unreliable narrator who I never knew whether to trust. It was good to be back with Stratton and her team, she’s a strong and interesting character, who I was really able to connect with by the end.
I was drawn into this from the beginning and raced through it over the course of 24 hours, a real page turner that I would recommend. 4.5 stars.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this digital ARC.
This is another excellent, twisty novel from S.M.Govett, a superior police procedural that kept me guessing throughout.. It’s told from the dual perspectives of Laura and DI Stratton, the former being an unreliable narrator who I never knew whether to trust. It was good to be back with Stratton and her team, she’s a strong and interesting character, who I was really able to connect with by the end.
I was drawn into this from the beginning and raced through it over the course of 24 hours, a real page turner that I would recommend. 4.5 stars.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this digital ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
What a brilliant second book to Sarah’s first ‘Believe’ and debut into police procedural.
I really enjoyed catching up with DI Stratton both her on the case and her personal life side stories really build character connections with the reader.
The story is told from dual POV DI Stratton and Laura the mum of Benjy.
From the start it gets straight into it and you are pulled into a story and investigation that has red herrings and twists galore. I thought I had it figured out so many times, but I didn’t. Close sometimes but not at all fully! Which I love. I was constantly on my toes, and drawn into what really happened to Benjy.
Pacing was good and smooth, not high speed but also not a slow burn. Constant and kept moving.
The characters were well developed and engaging, multilayered which made them relatable and real. Not a highly emotional read more a griping mystery with an ending you won’t see coming.
I really enjoyed catching up with DI Stratton both her on the case and her personal life side stories really build character connections with the reader.
The story is told from dual POV DI Stratton and Laura the mum of Benjy.
From the start it gets straight into it and you are pulled into a story and investigation that has red herrings and twists galore. I thought I had it figured out so many times, but I didn’t. Close sometimes but not at all fully! Which I love. I was constantly on my toes, and drawn into what really happened to Benjy.
Pacing was good and smooth, not high speed but also not a slow burn. Constant and kept moving.
The characters were well developed and engaging, multilayered which made them relatable and real. Not a highly emotional read more a griping mystery with an ending you won’t see coming.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A very different, well presented thriller.
I found it very difficult to review this book at length without including a lot of spoilers, or retelling the story in summary form.
It's a very thought provoking read, with a plot that could have become just a police procedural and psychological thriller. It's far more than that. The two main players are a divorced mum who has found a new partner and is a successful author and a feisty police offer who alternate the telling of the story.
This is a second outing for DI Helen Stratton, and I enjoyed this book even more than the previous one.The author gives us a lot of detail about the thinking and feelings of these two characters which really lifts the book to another level. There are twists and turns galore that will keep readers guessing right up to the end as to the who and the why of who is responsible for thecrimes.
Thoroughly recommended.
I found it very difficult to review this book at length without including a lot of spoilers, or retelling the story in summary form.
It's a very thought provoking read, with a plot that could have become just a police procedural and psychological thriller. It's far more than that. The two main players are a divorced mum who has found a new partner and is a successful author and a feisty police offer who alternate the telling of the story.
This is a second outing for DI Helen Stratton, and I enjoyed this book even more than the previous one.The author gives us a lot of detail about the thinking and feelings of these two characters which really lifts the book to another level. There are twists and turns galore that will keep readers guessing right up to the end as to the who and the why of who is responsible for thecrimes.
Thoroughly recommended.
May 28, 2026
Thank you so much to Netgalley for giving me this free advance copy, and I’m writing this review honestly and without bias.
Believe (as it was called when I read it) was a cracking debut but SM Govett has elevated her second book to another level. The wonderful Stratton - who I can see becoming a firm favourite of mine - is back investigating the murder of a child. There is a somewhat eerie undercurrent rippling through this story that adds to the tension. The pace is pitched perfectly as the layers of the plot are uncovered and clever use of using Laura's ongoing novel to add another dimension. Brilliantly written with wonderfully portrayed characters that simply just come to life from the pages. The twist in this is a cracker and very cleverly done. There are books that work there way up to a five star read and then there are books like this that scream five star read from the off. Brilliant
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Laura is a divorced crime writer who lives with her 11 year old son Benjamin, and her new fiance, Ted. One evening, when Ted is working late and Laura is absorbed in writing her current novel, she finishes only to find that Benjamin is not in the house. Later that evening, he is found dead in the nearby Woods. But who could have hurt her beautiful, sensitive boy?
Maddened by rage and grief, Laura is determined to identify his killer. But with the police turning up one dead end after another, and suspicion shifting from one person in Benjamin's life to another, the reader is successfully kept busy chasing down the investigative leads in a mad flurry of frustration.
At the end, the writer finishes tying up all the loose ends with great creativity and elegance. This is a brilliant story, and with her previous DI Stratton book and this one, Govett has put herself on my must read list.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Maddened by rage and grief, Laura is determined to identify his killer. But with the police turning up one dead end after another, and suspicion shifting from one person in Benjamin's life to another, the reader is successfully kept busy chasing down the investigative leads in a mad flurry of frustration.
At the end, the writer finishes tying up all the loose ends with great creativity and elegance. This is a brilliant story, and with her previous DI Stratton book and this one, Govett has put herself on my must read list.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
May 14, 2026
This is the second in the series featuring DI Helen Stratton. The first book I absolutely loved, I would suggest reading book one first but this can be read as a standalone like most police procedurals, but for the back story I do like to read them in order.
Stratton is assigned to the case of a missing little boy, his mum, divorced author Laura was writing upstairs and when she goes down hours later, eleven year old Benjy is nowhere to be seen. Frantic Laura begins her search and as the story unfolds we learn things are not as they initially seem. The author points us in every direction possible as we try to uncover what happened.
Red herrings galore and enough twists and turns to give you whiplash. Roll on book three!
Many thanks to NetGalley, publisher and author for my eARC in exchange for my honest review.
Stratton is assigned to the case of a missing little boy, his mum, divorced author Laura was writing upstairs and when she goes down hours later, eleven year old Benjy is nowhere to be seen. Frantic Laura begins her search and as the story unfolds we learn things are not as they initially seem. The author points us in every direction possible as we try to uncover what happened.
Red herrings galore and enough twists and turns to give you whiplash. Roll on book three!
Many thanks to NetGalley, publisher and author for my eARC in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I was keen to read this as I was thoroughly impressed with the author's debut last year, and if anything, this one was even better. I was a bit hesitant when I read the blurb, as missing child stories are very much overdone, but it soon became clear that this book was following a very different angle, and I needn't have worried.
For a police procedural, it was close to perfect in my view. We got to know the detectives well enough for them to feel real and to care for them, but without detracting from the main story. There were enough suspects and misdirects so that theories could be built, but there were still surprises along the way. I also really enjoyed the writing style, it was descriptive and immersive without being too wordy.
Overall I would 100% recommend this book, and look forward to reading the next in the series.
For a police procedural, it was close to perfect in my view. We got to know the detectives well enough for them to feel real and to care for them, but without detracting from the main story. There were enough suspects and misdirects so that theories could be built, but there were still surprises along the way. I also really enjoyed the writing style, it was descriptive and immersive without being too wordy.
Overall I would 100% recommend this book, and look forward to reading the next in the series.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
When you looked away is a domestic psychological thriller but also a police procedural and another book in the DS Stratton series. Laura leaves her son unattended in her house whilst she is working upstairs and after 4 hrs she discovers he has vanished .What follows is a spiral of suspicion where everyone including Laura herself becomes a potential suspect .I didn't like the character of Laura to leave a child for 4 hours unattended is unforgiveable and she comes across as flaky and self absorbed .DS Stratton is on the case and continues to battle to do all she can for every victim. A compelling twisty brilliant book a real page turner with an unexpected ending .Thank you to NetGalley for my ARC
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thanks very much to Michael Joseph publishers and NetGalley for an advance digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I read it in 24hours, which is why I’ve rounded it up from a 4* on one level to a 5, it just kept me turning those pages! The reason I was thinking 4 was because it is very formulaic in parts, and I could guess, rightly, where a lot of the story was going. But it does also have a few well thought through twists, and the characters are very well drawn, especially I think Laura, as a Mum who is a bit ‘different’ than society accepts as good enough. I like that it has a definite ending, stories that don’t really disappoint me. I hope there’s another DI Stratton in the making, highly recommend to others.
I read it in 24hours, which is why I’ve rounded it up from a 4* on one level to a 5, it just kept me turning those pages! The reason I was thinking 4 was because it is very formulaic in parts, and I could guess, rightly, where a lot of the story was going. But it does also have a few well thought through twists, and the characters are very well drawn, especially I think Laura, as a Mum who is a bit ‘different’ than society accepts as good enough. I like that it has a definite ending, stories that don’t really disappoint me. I hope there’s another DI Stratton in the making, highly recommend to others.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Am a huge fan of S.M. Govett's writing and loved her latest book, When You Looked Away. It's a brilliant follow up to Believe. Nothing is as it seems in this tense, twisty thriller that will keep you guessing until the last page. DI Stratton returns to investigate the drowning of an 11-year-old boy who is discovered by his distraught mother. The plotting and pacing is masterful, keeping the tension high throughout, and making it a gripping read. I didn't guess the ending and was desperate to find out the truth. It's impossible to put down! It should be on everyone's reading lists this summer and deserves to be made into a movie. I look forward to reading the next investigation for DI Stratton!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
When You Looked Away – S.M. Govett
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨️
Wow this author! Fantastic. I wish I hadn’t found her for a while, so I had a whole blacklist to enjoy!
Let’s hope she can write fast! ✍️🙏
Someone takes Laura’s son Benjy from their house whilst Laura is busy writing in the attic.
It becomes the proverbial ping pong ball investigation. DI Stratton finds herself back and forth between suspects, every lead Stratton gets collapses before it’s off the ground, leaving you guessing right till the end!
Meanwhile Laura is writing a book about the investigation, is she trying to predict, change or determine the ending? And will it make any difference?
I love Stratton’s no nonsense talking!
The whole thing is gripping and clever, and will keep you up all night!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨️
Wow this author! Fantastic. I wish I hadn’t found her for a while, so I had a whole blacklist to enjoy!
Let’s hope she can write fast! ✍️🙏
Someone takes Laura’s son Benjy from their house whilst Laura is busy writing in the attic.
It becomes the proverbial ping pong ball investigation. DI Stratton finds herself back and forth between suspects, every lead Stratton gets collapses before it’s off the ground, leaving you guessing right till the end!
Meanwhile Laura is writing a book about the investigation, is she trying to predict, change or determine the ending? And will it make any difference?
I love Stratton’s no nonsense talking!
The whole thing is gripping and clever, and will keep you up all night!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is a tragic book of a successful crime author woman who is busy writing in the attic when her son disappears from downstairs. As a tragic discovery is made both her ex husband and new partner come under suspicion. As she tries fo find the truth with her writing about what happened she may need to address some dark secrets from all sides and who is responsible for the death of this poor child. This is one of those books where you may decide early on who did it but the truth blew my mind. A great read!
Read
May 5, 2026This is the second DI Stratton police procedural and it is just as good, if not even better than "Believe".
It is a complex tale of Laura , a writer who is a divorcee and her young son who is the apple of her eye.
Suddenly he goes missing and Stratton, struggling with her own personal and family problems is brought in to find the little boy.
I found it hard to keep up with the way the plot was developing and the red herrings and blind allies that the author so skilfully takes the reader down but the effort required is more than worthwhile.
An exceptional read.
It is a complex tale of Laura , a writer who is a divorcee and her young son who is the apple of her eye.
Suddenly he goes missing and Stratton, struggling with her own personal and family problems is brought in to find the little boy.
I found it hard to keep up with the way the plot was developing and the red herrings and blind allies that the author so skilfully takes the reader down but the effort required is more than worthwhile.
An exceptional read.
May 19, 2026
When Laura’s son, Benjy, goes missing, it starts to follow similar themes to novels she’s written, bleeding the lines between fact and fiction. Who is to blame?
And why?
The second novel in the DI. Stratton series by S. M. Govett, and a second sensational read!
This plot was so gripping! I loved that it was so difficult to ascertain who was telling the truth and who was lying. Govett is an extraordinary crime writer who can expertly plot and engage a reader. I already need the next book!
And why?
The second novel in the DI. Stratton series by S. M. Govett, and a second sensational read!
This plot was so gripping! I loved that it was so difficult to ascertain who was telling the truth and who was lying. Govett is an extraordinary crime writer who can expertly plot and engage a reader. I already need the next book!
May 24, 2026
Wow what a 5 star read was really excited to read this after really enjoying Believe
From the very first page it pulls you in Straight in with Laura who is a writer goes in search off her son the house is empty…he’s gone back gate two sets of foot prints…
It is every parents nightmare I stayed up through the night to finish this Govett is becoming a top thriller reader would 100% recommend reading this thank you for the early copy really enjoyed this
From the very first page it pulls you in Straight in with Laura who is a writer goes in search off her son the house is empty…he’s gone back gate two sets of foot prints…
It is every parents nightmare I stayed up through the night to finish this Govett is becoming a top thriller reader would 100% recommend reading this thank you for the early copy really enjoyed this
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Di Stratton is back, though the drowning of a 11 year old boy, found in the local woods by his mom, seems to be quite a straightforward case, until it isn’t.
Exocet lots of twists in this great follow up to her debut book.
I do love that the book is based in the neighbourhood where I live, Sheen, though I don’t remember Stratton being so opinionated about the area in the previous book 😂
Exocet lots of twists in this great follow up to her debut book.
I do love that the book is based in the neighbourhood where I live, Sheen, though I don’t remember Stratton being so opinionated about the area in the previous book 😂
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A book that definitely has you questioning everything. I really enjoyed the first book in this series and this was just as good. I was convincing myself that I knew who it was but I don’t think anything could have prepared me for the ending. I don’t want to say any more as I don’t want to give anything away but if you like thrillers and crime novels then please give this one a go.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I was asked by NetGalley to review this - wow what a novel.
I read this on half term in garden- I read in one go - difficult topic but was written well and there were twists and turns throughou this story with DI Stratton at the helm
Recommended read due for publication July 9th 2026 in timefor the long school holidays
I read this on half term in garden- I read in one go - difficult topic but was written well and there were twists and turns throughou this story with DI Stratton at the helm
Recommended read due for publication July 9th 2026 in timefor the long school holidays
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
This pulled me in straight away and I was into the mystery. It kept me questioning what actually happened and who to trust.
There were a few too many misdirects along the way and the ending didn't quite land for me.
This pulled me in straight away and I was into the mystery. It kept me questioning what actually happened and who to trust.
There were a few too many misdirects along the way and the ending didn't quite land for me.
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