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Where She Went
TV journalist Melanie Black wakes up one morning next to a man she doesn't recognise. It's not the first time - but he ignores her even though she's in his bed. Yet when his wife walks in with a cup of tea he greets her with a smile and to her horror, Melanie comes to realise that no one can see or her hear her - because she is dead.
But has she woken up next to her murderer? And where is her body? Why is she an invisible and uninvited guest in a house she can't leave; is she tied to this man forever? Is Melanie being punished in some way, or being given a chance to make amends?
As she begins to piece together the last days of her life and circumstances leading up to her own death it becomes clear she has to make a choice: bring her killer to justice, or wreak her own punishment out to the man who murdered her.
Advance praise for Bev Jones:
'I got completely sucked in by this . . . If Rebecca had written Rebecca what you'd get is Where She Went. An irresistible voice, a unique predicament and a cast of characters that plays acid jazz on your heartstrings. Hard to take and impossible to look away' Catriona McPherson
But has she woken up next to her murderer? And where is her body? Why is she an invisible and uninvited guest in a house she can't leave; is she tied to this man forever? Is Melanie being punished in some way, or being given a chance to make amends?
As she begins to piece together the last days of her life and circumstances leading up to her own death it becomes clear she has to make a choice: bring her killer to justice, or wreak her own punishment out to the man who murdered her.
Advance praise for Bev Jones:
'I got completely sucked in by this . . . If Rebecca had written Rebecca what you'd get is Where She Went. An irresistible voice, a unique predicament and a cast of characters that plays acid jazz on your heartstrings. Hard to take and impossible to look away' Catriona McPherson
352 pages, Paperback
First published February 28, 2017
35 people are currently reading
924 people want to read
About the author
B.E. Jones
7 books109 followersI'm a former journalist who worked for The Western Mail newspaper and BBC Wales Today in Cardiff before becoming a press officer for the police.
My sixth novel 'Wilderness', is published by LittleBrown and has been adapted into a TV series by Firebird Pictures for Amazon Prime starring Jenna Coleman and Oliver Jackson-Cohen. My latest title, The Beach House, as Beverley Jones, is available in ebook and out in paperback in April 22.
You might already have seen me on Goodreads as I'm a voracious reader, rater and reviewer. I also have three other published novels, all psychological thrillers with a contemporary edge, under the name Beverley Jones. Check out that Goodreads profile to find out more or ask me a question - I love to chat, argue about and compare notes on all sorts of books.
Join me on Twitter and Instagram @bevjoneswriting
My sixth novel 'Wilderness', is published by LittleBrown and has been adapted into a TV series by Firebird Pictures for Amazon Prime starring Jenna Coleman and Oliver Jackson-Cohen. My latest title, The Beach House, as Beverley Jones, is available in ebook and out in paperback in April 22.
You might already have seen me on Goodreads as I'm a voracious reader, rater and reviewer. I also have three other published novels, all psychological thrillers with a contemporary edge, under the name Beverley Jones. Check out that Goodreads profile to find out more or ask me a question - I love to chat, argue about and compare notes on all sorts of books.
Join me on Twitter and Instagram @bevjoneswriting
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
June 29, 2017
Here's a really fresh take on a 'whodunit' with the protagonist recounting events that led to her death. TV journalist Melanie Black was brutally murdered, and instead of the 'bright light at the end of the tunnel' she finds herself living in the home of her murderer and his wife and son, although of course, they can't see or hear her.
Melanie Black wasn't a particularly nice person, she enjoyed putting people down, and had no qualms about 'sticking the knife in' if she saw someone as a threat, either in her personal, or her working relationships. As she slowly revealed the events leading up to her death, I found myself with conflicting feelings for her, from sympathy, regarding the nature of her death, to distaste for the contempt she had for others.
Now Melanie being Melanie, it's not difficult to see that she's going to get revenge for her murder and this is where it gets interesting. We really get inside the minds of everyone who was involved with her ( it's like being a fly on the wall ) and be honest, we'd all like to do that sometimes!
I found the first few chapters a little slow, but I soon became involved and really enjoyed seeing where it led. I didn't like Melanie Black, but it's not always necessary to like a protagonist to appreciate the storyline. Oh, and there was a great twist near the end - and I do enjoy a twist. All in all I enjoyed it.
*Thank you to Netgalley and Little, Brown Book Company/ Constable for my ARC in exchange for an honest review*
Melanie Black wasn't a particularly nice person, she enjoyed putting people down, and had no qualms about 'sticking the knife in' if she saw someone as a threat, either in her personal, or her working relationships. As she slowly revealed the events leading up to her death, I found myself with conflicting feelings for her, from sympathy, regarding the nature of her death, to distaste for the contempt she had for others.
Now Melanie being Melanie, it's not difficult to see that she's going to get revenge for her murder and this is where it gets interesting. We really get inside the minds of everyone who was involved with her ( it's like being a fly on the wall ) and be honest, we'd all like to do that sometimes!
I found the first few chapters a little slow, but I soon became involved and really enjoyed seeing where it led. I didn't like Melanie Black, but it's not always necessary to like a protagonist to appreciate the storyline. Oh, and there was a great twist near the end - and I do enjoy a twist. All in all I enjoyed it.
*Thank you to Netgalley and Little, Brown Book Company/ Constable for my ARC in exchange for an honest review*
May 31, 2017
Where She Went is a crime thriller about a female tv journalist's murder with a little mix of a ghost story.
We meet Melanie Black our main character who wakes up to a man that she does not recognize. She quickly realizes that this unfamiliar man cannot see or hear Melanie. Melanie finds out that she is dead... VERY DEAD. Early on in the novel, you find out Melanie is living in the home of her killer and his wife. Interesting right? So.. as you can imagine what is Melanie supposed to do with this?
The story is told from Melanie's perspective and you slowly start to find out the missing pieces to how/why Melanie was killed. It is very quite genius on the author's part to create a novel this way. You get to see the family's perspective and how Melanie can hear their thoughts throughout the novel.
But, as the reader you are wondering how does Melanie seek revenge? Because, we all KNOW that if YOU were Melanie... I would be hunting down my killer for revenge.
I would give this an overall 3.5. It was a little hard for me to connect in the beginning of the story and found myself a little bored. As the story picked up, I finally felt engaged. The end had a little bit of twist as you find out what truly happened to Melanie. But, it was missing the shocking twists that I love in my thriller novels.
Did I love this? No. But, it was entertaining!!
We meet Melanie Black our main character who wakes up to a man that she does not recognize. She quickly realizes that this unfamiliar man cannot see or hear Melanie. Melanie finds out that she is dead... VERY DEAD. Early on in the novel, you find out Melanie is living in the home of her killer and his wife. Interesting right? So.. as you can imagine what is Melanie supposed to do with this?
The story is told from Melanie's perspective and you slowly start to find out the missing pieces to how/why Melanie was killed. It is very quite genius on the author's part to create a novel this way. You get to see the family's perspective and how Melanie can hear their thoughts throughout the novel.
But, as the reader you are wondering how does Melanie seek revenge? Because, we all KNOW that if YOU were Melanie... I would be hunting down my killer for revenge.
I would give this an overall 3.5. It was a little hard for me to connect in the beginning of the story and found myself a little bored. As the story picked up, I finally felt engaged. The end had a little bit of twist as you find out what truly happened to Melanie. But, it was missing the shocking twists that I love in my thriller novels.
Did I love this? No. But, it was entertaining!!
May 15, 2017
* https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
Where She Went is a psychological thriller, crossed crime novel – with some ghostly elements. It is the story of an ambitious television journalist’s murder and how the killer is eventually brought to justice.
Melanie Black is a television journalist who is used to reporting crimes to her audience. The tables are turned when Melanie finds herself at the front and centre of a terrible crime – her own murder. The nightmare begins when Melanie wakes up in an unfamiliar house, in bed with a strange man. When his wife arrives on the scene and completely ignores Melanie, she soon realises this is no ordinary experience. With all the occupants in this house refusing to acknowledge Melanie’s existence, Melanie makes the horrifying conclusion that she is in fact dead. Now, it is up to Melanie to piece together the circumstances of her death and if someone is responsible, make them accountable for their actions.
Overall, I found Where She Went reminiscent of a well know book I enjoyed some years ago, The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold. Since The Lovely Bones, I have read a couple of books that feature a main protagonist who is dead, narrating and reflecting on the events that lead to their death. It is an intriguing style of storytelling and I will admit this book soon consumed me, as soon as it was lifted from my bookshelf. Where She Went is the type of book you will want to try to read in one sitting. It is fast and intriguing. It will make you want to turn the pages at lightning speed – as you just have to find out what happened to Melanie.
It was an interesting move to place Melanie, a TV journalist, at the centre of her own crime. It added a great spin on the book’s events. Melanie must watch on as her own crime is reported by those she worked with. She also observes, through the progression of her disappearance, the discovery of her body and the hunt for her killer, which is reported by her colleagues. This was a heart wrenching experience and is portrayed well by the author, B.E. Jones.
Where She Went features a colourful cast of complex characters. Melanie was not a particularly likeable character when she lived. However, I found myself sympathising with her the more the book progressed. The prime suspect of Melanie’s death was an odd character, who was despicable in his actions towards others. His suppressed wife offered the reader plenty to ponder on and I found this family’s whole situation very creepy indeed. There are other minor players in the story, such as Melanie’s loved ones left behind and colleagues that contribute evenly to the unfolding story.
In general, I liked the way the plot in Where She Went played out. There was a good plot twist contained within this book that took away from the fact that Melanie’s killer was easy to pick. It was good to have my own theory turned on its head. When the final truth was revealed, although I was shocked a little, I was not entirely surprised by this character’s actions – it was almost justifiable.
Where She Went was a compelling story, about a character hovering over those directly impacted by her death. Part supernatural, part solid crime thriller and part a chilling psychological thriller, Where She Went is one to add to your bookshelves if you like to be completely taken in by a solid murder mystery.
Where She Went is a psychological thriller, crossed crime novel – with some ghostly elements. It is the story of an ambitious television journalist’s murder and how the killer is eventually brought to justice.
Melanie Black is a television journalist who is used to reporting crimes to her audience. The tables are turned when Melanie finds herself at the front and centre of a terrible crime – her own murder. The nightmare begins when Melanie wakes up in an unfamiliar house, in bed with a strange man. When his wife arrives on the scene and completely ignores Melanie, she soon realises this is no ordinary experience. With all the occupants in this house refusing to acknowledge Melanie’s existence, Melanie makes the horrifying conclusion that she is in fact dead. Now, it is up to Melanie to piece together the circumstances of her death and if someone is responsible, make them accountable for their actions.
Overall, I found Where She Went reminiscent of a well know book I enjoyed some years ago, The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold. Since The Lovely Bones, I have read a couple of books that feature a main protagonist who is dead, narrating and reflecting on the events that lead to their death. It is an intriguing style of storytelling and I will admit this book soon consumed me, as soon as it was lifted from my bookshelf. Where She Went is the type of book you will want to try to read in one sitting. It is fast and intriguing. It will make you want to turn the pages at lightning speed – as you just have to find out what happened to Melanie.
It was an interesting move to place Melanie, a TV journalist, at the centre of her own crime. It added a great spin on the book’s events. Melanie must watch on as her own crime is reported by those she worked with. She also observes, through the progression of her disappearance, the discovery of her body and the hunt for her killer, which is reported by her colleagues. This was a heart wrenching experience and is portrayed well by the author, B.E. Jones.
Where She Went features a colourful cast of complex characters. Melanie was not a particularly likeable character when she lived. However, I found myself sympathising with her the more the book progressed. The prime suspect of Melanie’s death was an odd character, who was despicable in his actions towards others. His suppressed wife offered the reader plenty to ponder on and I found this family’s whole situation very creepy indeed. There are other minor players in the story, such as Melanie’s loved ones left behind and colleagues that contribute evenly to the unfolding story.
In general, I liked the way the plot in Where She Went played out. There was a good plot twist contained within this book that took away from the fact that Melanie’s killer was easy to pick. It was good to have my own theory turned on its head. When the final truth was revealed, although I was shocked a little, I was not entirely surprised by this character’s actions – it was almost justifiable.
Where She Went was a compelling story, about a character hovering over those directly impacted by her death. Part supernatural, part solid crime thriller and part a chilling psychological thriller, Where She Went is one to add to your bookshelves if you like to be completely taken in by a solid murder mystery.
August 15, 2023
I so enjoyed this book. From very early on I knew I was going to like it and picked it up at every spare moment I got. You know those books that are just great to read? The ones that you can read in one sitting and get absorbed in? For me, this is one of those great books. The entire concept was great!
Journalist Melanie Black wakes up next to a strange man, it's not very long that she works out that she is actually dead. Very dead. She has in fact landed in the house of her murderer and his wife and child. Just what exactly is Melanie going to do with that? Just a great plot idea and it was pulled off really well in this novel.
I loved hearing things from Melanie's perspective as she observes and listens to the activities, conversations and even thoughts of the members of the family. She gets to see things from all perspectives and it's really quite fascinating. Her murderer is a complete bastard of a man on so many levels, his long-suffering wife is a complex character and I found myself very drawn to her in the novel. The dynamics in the home has some dark elements and it really added something extra.
Melanie gets to watch the news play out on the TV about her murder, reported by people she used to work with as a Journalist. What a bizarre situation to find yourself in. This has hints of The Lovely Bones. Does Melanie seek revenge? Can she influence anybody from her place in the spirit world? You need to read to find out dead reader. What IS good, is that it's not coming across as some cheesy ghost story/haunting. It was very much like Melanie was real, there, in the flesh and that gave her character some real strength.
As the plot plays out I was eager to get to know the truth behind what actually happened to her as it's not made clear to us. It was really interesting to find out with a twist in there I was not expecting to happen. I just enjoyed this book enormously. So why not 5 stars then I hear you ask?
Well - I fluctuated on this, but came to the conclusion that the book would have had a lot more intrigue if we had not known from the start that she was living with her murderer, if that was kept as a twist and I felt the ending whilst good could have had a much bigger oomph behind it, something that really blew the reader away. Just that little bit of a darker edge, twist, turn, tale.
In saying that, as I said I loved this book a lot and would highly recommend to those looking for an interesting book that you can just get totally lost in. I feel it was well written and would love to read more from this author. I woke up early this morning just eager to finish off this book and write my review. Happy reading everyone!
I received a copy of this book thanks to the publisher via NetGalley. All of my review opinions are entirely my own, professional, honest and totally unbiased.
Journalist Melanie Black wakes up next to a strange man, it's not very long that she works out that she is actually dead. Very dead. She has in fact landed in the house of her murderer and his wife and child. Just what exactly is Melanie going to do with that? Just a great plot idea and it was pulled off really well in this novel.
I loved hearing things from Melanie's perspective as she observes and listens to the activities, conversations and even thoughts of the members of the family. She gets to see things from all perspectives and it's really quite fascinating. Her murderer is a complete bastard of a man on so many levels, his long-suffering wife is a complex character and I found myself very drawn to her in the novel. The dynamics in the home has some dark elements and it really added something extra.
Melanie gets to watch the news play out on the TV about her murder, reported by people she used to work with as a Journalist. What a bizarre situation to find yourself in. This has hints of The Lovely Bones. Does Melanie seek revenge? Can she influence anybody from her place in the spirit world? You need to read to find out dead reader. What IS good, is that it's not coming across as some cheesy ghost story/haunting. It was very much like Melanie was real, there, in the flesh and that gave her character some real strength.
As the plot plays out I was eager to get to know the truth behind what actually happened to her as it's not made clear to us. It was really interesting to find out with a twist in there I was not expecting to happen. I just enjoyed this book enormously. So why not 5 stars then I hear you ask?
Well - I fluctuated on this, but came to the conclusion that the book would have had a lot more intrigue if we had not known from the start that she was living with her murderer, if that was kept as a twist and I felt the ending whilst good could have had a much bigger oomph behind it, something that really blew the reader away. Just that little bit of a darker edge, twist, turn, tale.
In saying that, as I said I loved this book a lot and would highly recommend to those looking for an interesting book that you can just get totally lost in. I feel it was well written and would love to read more from this author. I woke up early this morning just eager to finish off this book and write my review. Happy reading everyone!
I received a copy of this book thanks to the publisher via NetGalley. All of my review opinions are entirely my own, professional, honest and totally unbiased.
July 11, 2017
3.5 stars. TV journalist Melanie Black wakes up next to a man she does not recognise. It's not the first time, but he ignores her even though she's in his bed. Then his wife walks in with a cup of tea and he greets her with a smile. To her horror, Melanie realises that no one can see her because she is dead. Has she just woken up next to her murderer?
This book is entirely voiced by Melanie. It's not often we get a ghost as the main character. We share her journey as she adapt to her new abilities. The characters in this book are not likeable but I don't think it would work any other way. There is a few twist and turns as we get to know the truth behind Melanie's death. The ending is quite chilling.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Little Brown Book Group UK and the author B E Jones for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This book is entirely voiced by Melanie. It's not often we get a ghost as the main character. We share her journey as she adapt to her new abilities. The characters in this book are not likeable but I don't think it would work any other way. There is a few twist and turns as we get to know the truth behind Melanie's death. The ending is quite chilling.
I would like to thank NetGalley, Little Brown Book Group UK and the author B E Jones for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 9, 2017
My Son and Daughter occasionally have a playful argument over the fact that you cannot wake up dead but that is exactly what happens to tv reporter Melanie Black.She wakes up one morning in the bed of a strange man,this is not exactly a rare occurrence in Melanie`s life but then something very unusual happens....he completely ignores her.Things get even stranger when his wife comes in with a cup of tea and also ignores her,that is when Melanie realises the shocking truth....she is obviously dead.
Is the man next to her her murderer and where is her body?
As Melanie begins to pierce together the last days of her life and the circumstances that lead up to her death it becomes clear that she has to decide between bringing her killer to justice or wrecking her own punishment on the man who killer her.
This very different thriller is voiced entirely by Melanie who is not exactly a very likeable character,actually most of the characters in this book are not very likeable for various reasons.I thought the idea of the lead character being a ghost or spirit was unique and clever and I enjoyed being part of Melanie`s journey as she learned to adapt to her new life and use her newly discovered abilities to her advantage.It is definitely a story that pushes the boundaries of credibility at times and it is best to just keep a open mind and not over think what you are reading.A lot of the chapters are quite long and in some of the chapters there are flashback scenes of the memories from a characters past.I found some of these flashback sections frustrating at times because I felt they interrupted the flow of the story.
The book is well written,the premise is unique,the characters are well developed and there is a completely unexpected twist towards the end of the story.I think that this book could generate some interesting discussions if it was read in a book group because of some of the issues that are raised throughout the story.
Many thanks to little Brown book group/constable for a arc of this book via netgalley in exchange for a honest reviews.
Is the man next to her her murderer and where is her body?
As Melanie begins to pierce together the last days of her life and the circumstances that lead up to her death it becomes clear that she has to decide between bringing her killer to justice or wrecking her own punishment on the man who killer her.
This very different thriller is voiced entirely by Melanie who is not exactly a very likeable character,actually most of the characters in this book are not very likeable for various reasons.I thought the idea of the lead character being a ghost or spirit was unique and clever and I enjoyed being part of Melanie`s journey as she learned to adapt to her new life and use her newly discovered abilities to her advantage.It is definitely a story that pushes the boundaries of credibility at times and it is best to just keep a open mind and not over think what you are reading.A lot of the chapters are quite long and in some of the chapters there are flashback scenes of the memories from a characters past.I found some of these flashback sections frustrating at times because I felt they interrupted the flow of the story.
The book is well written,the premise is unique,the characters are well developed and there is a completely unexpected twist towards the end of the story.I think that this book could generate some interesting discussions if it was read in a book group because of some of the issues that are raised throughout the story.
Many thanks to little Brown book group/constable for a arc of this book via netgalley in exchange for a honest reviews.
March 13, 2017
Read this pretty much in one sitting this afternoon - clever, addictive tale, a crime thriller with a ghostly element - well actually a literal ghost trying to muddle her way through the afterlife and eek out some kind of revenge at the same time.
Where She Went is told entirely by Melanie, who has woken up dead, stuck by the side of the man who probably killed her and his long suffering wife. Everybody pretty much is horrible in this novel - even poor Eve, said wife, who puts up with a controlling and abusive environment. Melanie herself is not particularly sympathetic either, dead as she is, but still you kind of root for her as she discovers what she can and can't achieve.
The writing flows beautifully, I liked the way the back story revealed itself, and it is relatively creepy - Melanie whispering her thoughts into the heads of others - it actually gives you pause for thought on those random things you sometimes see out of the corner of your eye. The mystery elements are well thought out and clever but the excellent thing about this book is the character voice. Melanie is sharp and ironic, keeping you on side even as she shows her less than kind nature, I was especially fond of the little twist ending and the ability the author leaves you with to imagine what might happen next.
Overall this was beautifully different, something less usual within the crime genre, it worked on many levels and as such I have no problem recommending it.
One to watch this year.
Where She Went is told entirely by Melanie, who has woken up dead, stuck by the side of the man who probably killed her and his long suffering wife. Everybody pretty much is horrible in this novel - even poor Eve, said wife, who puts up with a controlling and abusive environment. Melanie herself is not particularly sympathetic either, dead as she is, but still you kind of root for her as she discovers what she can and can't achieve.
The writing flows beautifully, I liked the way the back story revealed itself, and it is relatively creepy - Melanie whispering her thoughts into the heads of others - it actually gives you pause for thought on those random things you sometimes see out of the corner of your eye. The mystery elements are well thought out and clever but the excellent thing about this book is the character voice. Melanie is sharp and ironic, keeping you on side even as she shows her less than kind nature, I was especially fond of the little twist ending and the ability the author leaves you with to imagine what might happen next.
Overall this was beautifully different, something less usual within the crime genre, it worked on many levels and as such I have no problem recommending it.
One to watch this year.
Read
June 25, 2017DNF at 38%
I began skim reading this book at 31% and felt it would be unjust to finish and review a book that I didn't not give my full attention to therefore I chose to abandon the book.
Why I didn't finish this book:
It's not often I don't finish a book but I just couldn't get into this one. From the open pages, I felt I wouldn't be able to connect with the story due to its narration style but I hoped in time I'd settle to the books structure but sadly I didn't. Narrated by Melanie, who is dead, I was intrigued... however, rather than a believable narrative voice of someone who died, I found this to read like a cheesy ghost story, not to be taken seriously at all. I did not like the character of Melanie at all and I just couldn't take the plot seriously. Even as a fun, light-hearted novel, it just didn't work for me.
This novel may well improve but as I'm not invested in the plot, I feel no connection to Melanie, therefore, I have no desire to know the outcome.
Not every book can be for everyone so do check out other reviews to see what other readers thought of this one.
*My thanks to the publisher (Constable/Little, Brown Book Group UK) for granting me access to a digital copy of this book via Netgalley*
I began skim reading this book at 31% and felt it would be unjust to finish and review a book that I didn't not give my full attention to therefore I chose to abandon the book.
Why I didn't finish this book:
It's not often I don't finish a book but I just couldn't get into this one. From the open pages, I felt I wouldn't be able to connect with the story due to its narration style but I hoped in time I'd settle to the books structure but sadly I didn't. Narrated by Melanie, who is dead, I was intrigued... however, rather than a believable narrative voice of someone who died, I found this to read like a cheesy ghost story, not to be taken seriously at all. I did not like the character of Melanie at all and I just couldn't take the plot seriously. Even as a fun, light-hearted novel, it just didn't work for me.
This novel may well improve but as I'm not invested in the plot, I feel no connection to Melanie, therefore, I have no desire to know the outcome.
Not every book can be for everyone so do check out other reviews to see what other readers thought of this one.
*My thanks to the publisher (Constable/Little, Brown Book Group UK) for granting me access to a digital copy of this book via Netgalley*
April 20, 2017
I really enjoyed this book, and would highly recommend it to anyone.
The story follows Melanie Black as the narrator, who waking up one morning discovers herself in bed with a strange man in a strange house. Who is he? How did she get there? More importantly why is he ignoring her? Then his wife walks in and Melanie quickly realises no-one can see her, no-one can hear her because she isn't really there, she's dead. How did she die? Did this man kill her? So many questions, as Melanie pieces together the events of that night that lead to her death she must decide the extent of her revenge and who should pay the ultimate price.
This is a book not only of murder and revenge but also of Melanie analysing her life, her choices and that's one of the things that make this book such a compelling read. Thank you for the opportunity to read such a brilliantly crafted book Jess.
The story follows Melanie Black as the narrator, who waking up one morning discovers herself in bed with a strange man in a strange house. Who is he? How did she get there? More importantly why is he ignoring her? Then his wife walks in and Melanie quickly realises no-one can see her, no-one can hear her because she isn't really there, she's dead. How did she die? Did this man kill her? So many questions, as Melanie pieces together the events of that night that lead to her death she must decide the extent of her revenge and who should pay the ultimate price.
This is a book not only of murder and revenge but also of Melanie analysing her life, her choices and that's one of the things that make this book such a compelling read. Thank you for the opportunity to read such a brilliantly crafted book Jess.
August 15, 2017
Where She Went is an intriguing novel which centres much more on character development and relationships rather than focussing on a ‘mystery’ as such. It’s not exactly what I expected but I hugely enjoyed reading it, from first page to last. Told from the point of view of Melanie, we (and Melanie herself) soon realise that she’s actually dead, and viewing the life of her murder Peter and his family, as they seem to carry on with their lives. What follows is a really interesting and rather unique story which lets us peek into Peter’s through Melanie’s eyes.
We learn more about what happened in the run up to her death, and see as she tries to lead the police to him in their investigation. I’m not usually a huge fan of novels with a supernatural element, but this is written really well, with Melanie as a ghost allowing us all access into their home life – Peter is such a horrible, despicable character and I hated him so much! We also see news reports through Melanie’s perspective, and her comments on what’s happened can be quite amusing. In a way I wish we didn't know that Peter was her murderer right from the start, as I'm always a fan of the 'whodunnit' elements in crime novels, but the fact that we did know meant this novel was more of a different read for me.
Melanie herself seems a bit unlikable a times, to be honest, but she certainly didn’t deserve to die the way she did – and the story of how that happens actually unfolds in a way I wasn’t expecting, leading to some surprises (despite us knowing who killed her) and therefore keeping me hooked. I found myself wanting to keep picking up this novel whenever I had time to read, and it offers a fresh take on the usual crime novel format!
Many thanks to Little Brown Book Group UK and Netgalley for providing a copy of this novel on which I chose to write an honest and unbiased review.
Book reviews on www.snazzybooks.com
We learn more about what happened in the run up to her death, and see as she tries to lead the police to him in their investigation. I’m not usually a huge fan of novels with a supernatural element, but this is written really well, with Melanie as a ghost allowing us all access into their home life – Peter is such a horrible, despicable character and I hated him so much! We also see news reports through Melanie’s perspective, and her comments on what’s happened can be quite amusing. In a way I wish we didn't know that Peter was her murderer right from the start, as I'm always a fan of the 'whodunnit' elements in crime novels, but the fact that we did know meant this novel was more of a different read for me.
Melanie herself seems a bit unlikable a times, to be honest, but she certainly didn’t deserve to die the way she did – and the story of how that happens actually unfolds in a way I wasn’t expecting, leading to some surprises (despite us knowing who killed her) and therefore keeping me hooked. I found myself wanting to keep picking up this novel whenever I had time to read, and it offers a fresh take on the usual crime novel format!
Many thanks to Little Brown Book Group UK and Netgalley for providing a copy of this novel on which I chose to write an honest and unbiased review.
Book reviews on www.snazzybooks.com
April 4, 2017
This was a slow read for me. Took me a while to slog my way through and once I was up to half way I thought I may as well finish.
Well written, if a little to much blahing on by "Melly".
I thought the main character was a bit of a mean girl. In fact she was down right nasty to Eve.
Glad I finished it so I could see how things ended for Eve and Adam.
Well written, if a little to much blahing on by "Melly".
I thought the main character was a bit of a mean girl. In fact she was down right nasty to Eve.
Glad I finished it so I could see how things ended for Eve and Adam.
November 11, 2017
I won this book via a Goodreads giveaway.
It took me a while to finish this book as it didn’t really grab my attention. I thought the plot was clever but it lacked any real suspense or thrill for me. An ok read .
It took me a while to finish this book as it didn’t really grab my attention. I thought the plot was clever but it lacked any real suspense or thrill for me. An ok read .
April 7, 2017
Where She Went by B E Jones
This is a psychological thriller with a difference. Melanie Black wakes to find her somewhat crumpled self on a bed next to a man that she does not know. Things are further complicated when a woman enters the room and serves him tea without acknowledging Melanie’s presence. It slowly dawns on Melanie that neither of them can see her. Quite quickly we learn that Melanie is dead. Melanie’s memories are vague and she cannot recall the circumstances that brought her to this point – she just realises that she is a ghost.
As a TV journalist she is intrigued to watch the coverage and the police attempts to uncover what happened to her. Rather than a police procedural or an investigation by a close friend or family, the mystery of her disappearance and murder is uncovered by Melanie herself, which I found to be an interesting and perhaps unique twist. It is not often we get to know the victim’s thoughts.
I was fascinated by this book and liked Melanie even when I was somewhat concerned about her actions. In a similar vein, I was both irritated and concerned for the murder’s wife.
Well-written and definitely entertaining and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for providing an ARC via my Kindle in return for an honest review.
This is a psychological thriller with a difference. Melanie Black wakes to find her somewhat crumpled self on a bed next to a man that she does not know. Things are further complicated when a woman enters the room and serves him tea without acknowledging Melanie’s presence. It slowly dawns on Melanie that neither of them can see her. Quite quickly we learn that Melanie is dead. Melanie’s memories are vague and she cannot recall the circumstances that brought her to this point – she just realises that she is a ghost.
As a TV journalist she is intrigued to watch the coverage and the police attempts to uncover what happened to her. Rather than a police procedural or an investigation by a close friend or family, the mystery of her disappearance and murder is uncovered by Melanie herself, which I found to be an interesting and perhaps unique twist. It is not often we get to know the victim’s thoughts.
I was fascinated by this book and liked Melanie even when I was somewhat concerned about her actions. In a similar vein, I was both irritated and concerned for the murder’s wife.
Well-written and definitely entertaining and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for providing an ARC via my Kindle in return for an honest review.
April 3, 2017
A woman wakes up next to a man she doesn't remember, he doesn't appear to see her and nor does his wife when she enters the room with his cup of tea. At that moment the woman realises to her horror she is dead! Such an awesome book! It is one of the best I have read in a long time!
July 17, 2017
Where she went by B.E. Jones.
TV journalist Melanie Black wakes up one morning next to a man she doesn't recognise. It's not the first time - but he ignores her even though she's in his bed. Yet when his wife walks in with a cup of tea he greets her with a smile and to her horror, Melanie comes to realise that no one can see or her hear her - because she is dead.
But has she woken up next to her murderer? And where is her body? Why is she an invisible and uninvited guest in a house she can't leave; is she tied to this man forever? Is Melanie being punished in some way, or being given a chance to make amends?
As she begins to piece together the last days of her life and circumstances leading up to her own death it becomes clear she has to make a choice: bring her killer to justice, or wreak her own punishment out to the man who murdered her.
This was a fantastic read with brilliant characters. I loved how we saw Melanie side. And how she felt. I had a inkling who it was But wasn't sure. 4*. Netgalley and little brown book group UK.
TV journalist Melanie Black wakes up one morning next to a man she doesn't recognise. It's not the first time - but he ignores her even though she's in his bed. Yet when his wife walks in with a cup of tea he greets her with a smile and to her horror, Melanie comes to realise that no one can see or her hear her - because she is dead.
But has she woken up next to her murderer? And where is her body? Why is she an invisible and uninvited guest in a house she can't leave; is she tied to this man forever? Is Melanie being punished in some way, or being given a chance to make amends?
As she begins to piece together the last days of her life and circumstances leading up to her own death it becomes clear she has to make a choice: bring her killer to justice, or wreak her own punishment out to the man who murdered her.
This was a fantastic read with brilliant characters. I loved how we saw Melanie side. And how she felt. I had a inkling who it was But wasn't sure. 4*. Netgalley and little brown book group UK.
August 4, 2018
Omg an amazing book. Couldn't stop thinking about it even when I wasn't reading it. Great plot and suspense
June 21, 2017
BRILLIANTLY AND ORIGINALLY PLOTTED, SURE TO BE ONE OF 2017's BEST MURDER MYSTERIES.
Set in South Wales, B E Jones' "Where She Went" is a spectacular example of originality. It grips from the very start. The novel is dictated through the eyes of the victim: Mel Black.
Mel, a TV Reporter and journalist "awakens" to find herself a spectre in the family home of Peter, Deputy Chief Accountant for Swansea Council, and the perpetrator of her murder. However, the precise order of the events which occurred on the evening of her death are hazy to Mel (and thus to the reader) and unfold gradually as the novel progresses. The story is essentially told in real time against a backdrop of TV coverage of the police investigation of her murder.
The novel is intelligently plotted and refreshingly original. The book features a limited number of characters, each of whom is developed in accordance with Mel's spectral access to their minds and presence. Mel develops her abilities as the novel progresses and plots revenge for her own death. Her spectral talent has serious but at times hilarious implications for Peter: who is the focus of Mel's lust for vengeance.
The author explores the issue of domestic violence through Peter and Eve's (Peter's wife) relationship. Their domestic arrangements are sadly far too common even in the 21st Century.
This is a novel in which the victim calls the shots. This novel is crafted with such originality it is bound to be one of 2017s best Murder Mysteries.
A novel not to be missed and deserving of going on the "Must Read" list of books.
(My review was based on an eBook file provided to me by the publisher. My review is totally independent.)
Set in South Wales, B E Jones' "Where She Went" is a spectacular example of originality. It grips from the very start. The novel is dictated through the eyes of the victim: Mel Black.
Mel, a TV Reporter and journalist "awakens" to find herself a spectre in the family home of Peter, Deputy Chief Accountant for Swansea Council, and the perpetrator of her murder. However, the precise order of the events which occurred on the evening of her death are hazy to Mel (and thus to the reader) and unfold gradually as the novel progresses. The story is essentially told in real time against a backdrop of TV coverage of the police investigation of her murder.
The novel is intelligently plotted and refreshingly original. The book features a limited number of characters, each of whom is developed in accordance with Mel's spectral access to their minds and presence. Mel develops her abilities as the novel progresses and plots revenge for her own death. Her spectral talent has serious but at times hilarious implications for Peter: who is the focus of Mel's lust for vengeance.
The author explores the issue of domestic violence through Peter and Eve's (Peter's wife) relationship. Their domestic arrangements are sadly far too common even in the 21st Century.
This is a novel in which the victim calls the shots. This novel is crafted with such originality it is bound to be one of 2017s best Murder Mysteries.
A novel not to be missed and deserving of going on the "Must Read" list of books.
(My review was based on an eBook file provided to me by the publisher. My review is totally independent.)
April 30, 2017
TV journalist Melanie Black wakes up one morning next to a man she doesn't recognise. It's not the first time - but he ignores her even though she's in his bed. Yet when his wife walks in with a cup of tea he greets her with a smile and to her horror, Melanie comes to realise that no one can see or her hear her - because she is dead.
I really enjoyed this book and read it very quickly as I found it an easy and compelling read. At first, it reminded me a bit of The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold in that the main character has been murdered and is the narrator of the story, watching over friends and family left behind.
I was quickly drawn into the story and found myself eagerly wanting to find out who Melanie's murderer was and hoping she would get justice. All of the characters were cleverly crafted though not particularly likeable, even Melanie. I enjoy crime thrillers and this fitted the bill, albeit with the unusual ghostly element.
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. These are my own opinions. Thank you to Net Galley, the publisher and the author.
I really enjoyed this book and read it very quickly as I found it an easy and compelling read. At first, it reminded me a bit of The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold in that the main character has been murdered and is the narrator of the story, watching over friends and family left behind.
I was quickly drawn into the story and found myself eagerly wanting to find out who Melanie's murderer was and hoping she would get justice. All of the characters were cleverly crafted though not particularly likeable, even Melanie. I enjoy crime thrillers and this fitted the bill, albeit with the unusual ghostly element.
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. These are my own opinions. Thank you to Net Galley, the publisher and the author.
June 18, 2017
An excellent idea, brilliantly executed.
Not only do you have to suspend disbelief to read a novel written by someone who's been murdered, most of the characters, including the dead narrator, are unlikeable/downright evil and yet it works on so many levels and had me up really late to at night to finish.
A cracking good read and I'm already looking forward to B.E. Jones' next novel.
p.s. Bonus points for being set in South Wales by someone who really knows the area.
[Review copy received from the publishers via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.]
Not only do you have to suspend disbelief to read a novel written by someone who's been murdered, most of the characters, including the dead narrator, are unlikeable/downright evil and yet it works on so many levels and had me up really late to at night to finish.
A cracking good read and I'm already looking forward to B.E. Jones' next novel.
p.s. Bonus points for being set in South Wales by someone who really knows the area.
[Review copy received from the publishers via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.]
August 31, 2017
Setting: Wales, UK; present day. TV journalist Melanie Black wakes up to find herself in bed next to a man she doesn't recognise. But when his wife enters the room with a tea tray and both the man and his wife ignore her, she realises that they can't actually see or hear her - because she is dead. Melanie must then try to remember what has happened to her, why she is in this house and what she can do to move on....
This was a great concept, well-executed and entertaining with well-drawn, although not particularly likeable, characters. Really enjoyed it - 9/10.
This was a great concept, well-executed and entertaining with well-drawn, although not particularly likeable, characters. Really enjoyed it - 9/10.
October 20, 2023
When TV journalist Melanie Black wakes up in bed with a man she doesn't know who is being served breakfast by his wife, and they are both completely oblivious to her presence, she comes to realise that she is dead. Her situation is confirmed as she sees her former news colleagues reporting on her disappearance, and as she begins to navigate her new state of being, she also begins to piece together how that may have come to be.
This is a great little murder mystery/thriller/ghost story.. it's fast paced, with some gritty characters and a new angle on the typical "who dunnit".
A good little revenge story that I really enjoyed.
This is a great little murder mystery/thriller/ghost story.. it's fast paced, with some gritty characters and a new angle on the typical "who dunnit".
A good little revenge story that I really enjoyed.
July 16, 2019
If you enjoy unlikeable main characters this one is for you. I normally enjoy them but this one was a special brand of 'I'm-not-like-other-girls' hater. If I didn't know better I would assume this book was written by a man with the way it portrays women.
I glazed over a few paragraphs. It seemed a bit too drawn out and long. I didn't mind the writing style overall.
I glazed over a few paragraphs. It seemed a bit too drawn out and long. I didn't mind the writing style overall.
June 11, 2017
This provides a fresh take on the psychological thriller, in that the narrator, TV journalist Melanie Black is a 'g-word', haunting the house of Peter and Eve and their young son Adam. Melanie isn't sure why she's there, but observes the controlling and abusive Peter and meek and mild Eve, and sees her old colleagues on TV report her disappearance. There are a few unexpected twists and turns as Melanie seeks to bring Peter down. I really liked Melanie's voice and anger, and the plot was intriguing. Highly recommended.
September 8, 2017
Be prepared this book has the most incredible storyline…
Parts paranormal, parts mystery and parts thriller, Where She Went follows the ghost of TV journalist Melanie Black as she tries to discover who killed her? Why? And how to bring them to justice?
The book features a great cast of characters, some incredibly likable and some I straight up detested. But with such good variety there is always something for everyone.
I absolutely loved this book and finished it in a day, I am positive it will be one of my great mystery reads of the year. It has a great even pace and kept me on the edge of my seat throughout and although paranormal is not my usual fancy, I loved the fact that Melanie was dead (sounds weird but you know what I mean).
Parts paranormal, parts mystery and parts thriller, Where She Went follows the ghost of TV journalist Melanie Black as she tries to discover who killed her? Why? And how to bring them to justice?
The book features a great cast of characters, some incredibly likable and some I straight up detested. But with such good variety there is always something for everyone.
I absolutely loved this book and finished it in a day, I am positive it will be one of my great mystery reads of the year. It has a great even pace and kept me on the edge of my seat throughout and although paranormal is not my usual fancy, I loved the fact that Melanie was dead (sounds weird but you know what I mean).
February 11, 2019
This book had me conflicted - it’s good, very riveting and a rather unusual premise. However the main character is not likeable. Despite that, the author managed to keep my interest piqued and I’m glad I stuck with it. (If the main character was more likeable the book would’ve had another star).
October 26, 2025
B.E. Jones was a new author for me and I would certainly read more of her works. The main character was unlikable but written so well that you were still intrigued to learn more about them. Was an interesting premise with the main character being a ghost and finding out how she was killed.
June 13, 2017
The first 4 chapters of this book were very hard to follow but it is written very well and turns into a bit of a mystery.
September 28, 2017
I won this book through goodreads giveaways and I really enjoyed it, so much that I read over half in one sitting last night, it's a bit of a whodunit murder mystery and even though I guessed whodunit it was a really good read, I'll definitely be recommending this one and looking forward to more from the author, thank you goodreads for introducing me to someone new
April 9, 2017
Whilst I thought it was a great premise for a story, it took me four attempts to get past the first few chapters. Then somehow it got gripping as new facets of peoples' characters came to light and I wanted to see how the story ended.
June 27, 2017
I loved the description for Where She Went - there are plenty of books where a victim's last days need to be pieced together before justice can be realised but it's rare to have the victim doing the work. They are dead after all... When Melanie wakes up in a strange bed, next to a strange man she doesn't understand the awful truth at first. It's only when she realises that nobody can see her that she begins to recall the events that would eventually lead to her death.
Where She Went is written in the first person. In some books this doesn't always quite work, you could swap the pronouns to make it a third person without drastically altering the feel of the book. Not so with this one, B.E. Johnson lets Melanie tell her story. It's colloquial, jumbled, personal and, considering it's a story about a ghost, completely believable.
Melanie is an odd character. Truth be told, I didn't actually like her very much. In life and in death she's manipulative, judgemental and selfish. Throughout the book I had conflicting emotions towards her, from the initial empathy towards a character suddenly discovering she has woken up a murder victim, through to distaste, downright anger, pity, sympathy and fear - she is actually quite sinister at times. However, despite being a character I don't think I'd want as a friend, I was still rooting for her, partly because it was so refreshing having a fully three dimensional victim - flaws and all - but also because Peter, the man she woke up next to, is a truly vile character. For all Melanie's faults I really wanted her to ensure Peter got his comeuppance. He is a narcissistic misogynist and control freak but as we learn about his past I did feel a little sympathy towards him. His wife, Eve is the most likeable adult in the book (they have a little boy, Adam who is adorable although the influence of his father is already disturbing at times). Melanie despises what she sees as weakness but as the book progresses we learn Eve has dark secrets of her own.
As we finally learn the full truth about Melanie's death I was gripped by the twists and turns. Obviously I'm not going to give anything away suffice to say I was genuinely surprised to discover what actually happened. The book cleverly finishes with an ending that is really quite chilling. If you're looking for a thriller that's a bit different Where She Went could be just what you're looking for.
Many thanks to the publishers for my copy, received through Netgalley in return for my unbiased review.
Where She Went is written in the first person. In some books this doesn't always quite work, you could swap the pronouns to make it a third person without drastically altering the feel of the book. Not so with this one, B.E. Johnson lets Melanie tell her story. It's colloquial, jumbled, personal and, considering it's a story about a ghost, completely believable.
Melanie is an odd character. Truth be told, I didn't actually like her very much. In life and in death she's manipulative, judgemental and selfish. Throughout the book I had conflicting emotions towards her, from the initial empathy towards a character suddenly discovering she has woken up a murder victim, through to distaste, downright anger, pity, sympathy and fear - she is actually quite sinister at times. However, despite being a character I don't think I'd want as a friend, I was still rooting for her, partly because it was so refreshing having a fully three dimensional victim - flaws and all - but also because Peter, the man she woke up next to, is a truly vile character. For all Melanie's faults I really wanted her to ensure Peter got his comeuppance. He is a narcissistic misogynist and control freak but as we learn about his past I did feel a little sympathy towards him. His wife, Eve is the most likeable adult in the book (they have a little boy, Adam who is adorable although the influence of his father is already disturbing at times). Melanie despises what she sees as weakness but as the book progresses we learn Eve has dark secrets of her own.
As we finally learn the full truth about Melanie's death I was gripped by the twists and turns. Obviously I'm not going to give anything away suffice to say I was genuinely surprised to discover what actually happened. The book cleverly finishes with an ending that is really quite chilling. If you're looking for a thriller that's a bit different Where She Went could be just what you're looking for.
Many thanks to the publishers for my copy, received through Netgalley in return for my unbiased review.
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