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Before I left
BEFORE I LEFT by Daisy White
A LONG HOT SUMMER, A CITY BY THE SEA, AND A SERIAL KILLER ON THE LOOSE.
Nineteen-year-old runaway Ruby Baker and pregnant best friend Mary escape domestic violence in London to find a new home in Brighton. They join a glitzy set of party girls, who are hell-bent on enjoying themselves in the new freedom of the 1960s.
But their new life soon comes under threat. Someone is watching Ruby. A tall stranger who Ruby keeps spotting in the shadows. This man may have followed them from London. And Ruby fears her dark secret will be exposed.
Then a murder at a local beauty spot brings danger for the party-loving set, and the first murder is followed by a second. Rumours of occult sacrifices spread across town.
In a breathtaking conclusion, Ruby faces a race against time to save someone very close to her, and her new life may be destroyed and her secrets exposed.
Discover a gripping new writer today. Great for fans of Lisa Jewell, Angela Marsons, or LJ Ross.
A LONG HOT SUMMER, A CITY BY THE SEA, AND A SERIAL KILLER ON THE LOOSE.
Nineteen-year-old runaway Ruby Baker and pregnant best friend Mary escape domestic violence in London to find a new home in Brighton. They join a glitzy set of party girls, who are hell-bent on enjoying themselves in the new freedom of the 1960s.
But their new life soon comes under threat. Someone is watching Ruby. A tall stranger who Ruby keeps spotting in the shadows. This man may have followed them from London. And Ruby fears her dark secret will be exposed.
Then a murder at a local beauty spot brings danger for the party-loving set, and the first murder is followed by a second. Rumours of occult sacrifices spread across town.
In a breathtaking conclusion, Ruby faces a race against time to save someone very close to her, and her new life may be destroyed and her secrets exposed.
Discover a gripping new writer today. Great for fans of Lisa Jewell, Angela Marsons, or LJ Ross.
261 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 20, 2017
202 people are currently reading
163 people want to read
About the author
Daisy White
48 books108 followersDaisy White/D.E White writes crime/thrillers and cosy crime. After numerous jobs, including being a flight attendant, a 999 call handler for the ambulance service, and a healthcare assistant in A&E, Daisy started writing full time in 2017. She lives on the Sussex coast, UK and has two children and a flock of rescued chickens.
A brand new crime thriller series, starting with GLASS DOLLS: Published by Joffe Books, the series follows former Elite Police Source Handler, Detective Dove Milson, in her first case for the Major Crimes Team. Book two, THE ICE DAUGHTERS is out now.
Daisy also writes cosy crime, including the Amazon bestselling RUBY BAKER SEASIDE MYSTERIES for Joffe Books. A brand new cosy crime series, THE CHLOE CANTON MYSTERIES, will be out in Feb 24th 2021, pub'd by Bloodhound Books and starting with MURDER ON THE ISLAND.
Standalones include psychological thriller REMEMBER ME and gangland thriller THE FORGOTTEN CHILD pub'd by HarperCollins.
Series in order:
Crime Thrillers - Detective Dove Milson:
1/3 GLASS DOLLS
2/3 THE ICE DAUGHTERS *New Release*
3/3 PLAY TIME
Cosy Mysteries:
The Ruby Baker Mysteries:
1/3 BEFORE I LEFT
2/3 BEFORE I FOUND YOU
3/3 BEFORE I TRUST YOU
The Chloe Canton Mysteries:
1/3 MURDER ON THE ISLAND *New Release*
2/3 MURDER ON THE BEACH
3/3 MURDER ON VALENTINE'S DAY
website; www.daisywhiteauthor.co.uk
email; daisy@daisywhiteauthor.co.uk
Twitter @DEWhiteAuthor
A brand new crime thriller series, starting with GLASS DOLLS: Published by Joffe Books, the series follows former Elite Police Source Handler, Detective Dove Milson, in her first case for the Major Crimes Team. Book two, THE ICE DAUGHTERS is out now.
Daisy also writes cosy crime, including the Amazon bestselling RUBY BAKER SEASIDE MYSTERIES for Joffe Books. A brand new cosy crime series, THE CHLOE CANTON MYSTERIES, will be out in Feb 24th 2021, pub'd by Bloodhound Books and starting with MURDER ON THE ISLAND.
Standalones include psychological thriller REMEMBER ME and gangland thriller THE FORGOTTEN CHILD pub'd by HarperCollins.
Series in order:
Crime Thrillers - Detective Dove Milson:
1/3 GLASS DOLLS
2/3 THE ICE DAUGHTERS *New Release*
3/3 PLAY TIME
Cosy Mysteries:
The Ruby Baker Mysteries:
1/3 BEFORE I LEFT
2/3 BEFORE I FOUND YOU
3/3 BEFORE I TRUST YOU
The Chloe Canton Mysteries:
1/3 MURDER ON THE ISLAND *New Release*
2/3 MURDER ON THE BEACH
3/3 MURDER ON VALENTINE'S DAY
website; www.daisywhiteauthor.co.uk
email; daisy@daisywhiteauthor.co.uk
Twitter @DEWhiteAuthor
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 52 reviews
July 14, 2017
Nineteen-year-old runaway Ruby Baker and her pregnant best friend Mary escape domestic violence in London to find a new home in Brighton. They join a glitzy set of party girls, who are hell bent on enjoying themselves in the new freedom of the 1960's. But someone is watching Ruby. Someone Ruby keeps watching in the shadows. Has the man followed them from London? Will Ruby's dark secret be exposed? Then a murder at a local beauty spot brings danger for the party-loving set. Rumours of occult sacrifices soon spread across town.
I quite enjoyed this book about witchcraft, cults and disgruntled ex's. It's not the usual type of thriller I read but it certainly was a pleasant change. This is the first book in a new series and I will definitely be reading more from the author. I Also found this a quick book to read and had it finished in a few hours.
I would like to thank Joffe Books and the author Daisy White for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I quite enjoyed this book about witchcraft, cults and disgruntled ex's. It's not the usual type of thriller I read but it certainly was a pleasant change. This is the first book in a new series and I will definitely be reading more from the author. I Also found this a quick book to read and had it finished in a few hours.
I would like to thank Joffe Books and the author Daisy White for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 19, 2017
Ruby Baker and her best friend, Mary are runaways. Ruby is running from an abusive stepfather and something she did to ease her mother's life. Mary is pregnant and running from an abusive husband. Ruby has a cousin in Brighton and that is where they land.
Obtaining jobs at a beauty shop, they fall in with a fun bunch of people. This is the 60s and almost anything goes. Ruby and Mary are enjoying their freedom ... until ....
Someone is watching Ruby. Mary is afraid it is her husband. Ruby is afraid it's her stepfather. So who is this? And does he know her secret?
When Ruby finds the body of someone she knows, she fears for her own life. The stranger who watches her has not come out of the shadows. And then someone disappears who is very close to Ruby. Is the stranger a murderer? There is talk about sacrifices and the occult. Is Ruby the target?
This was a fast, easy read filled with colorful characters. It started a little slow for me, but it didn't take long before I was hooked into the story. I didn't find it as much suspenseful as I did mysterious. And I do like mysteries. There are several suspects so I couldn't guess the ending ... and it was quite a surprise! All in all, a compelling and enjoyable read.
Many thanks to the author / Joffee Books / Netgalley for the advance digital copy. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
Obtaining jobs at a beauty shop, they fall in with a fun bunch of people. This is the 60s and almost anything goes. Ruby and Mary are enjoying their freedom ... until ....
Someone is watching Ruby. Mary is afraid it is her husband. Ruby is afraid it's her stepfather. So who is this? And does he know her secret?
When Ruby finds the body of someone she knows, she fears for her own life. The stranger who watches her has not come out of the shadows. And then someone disappears who is very close to Ruby. Is the stranger a murderer? There is talk about sacrifices and the occult. Is Ruby the target?
This was a fast, easy read filled with colorful characters. It started a little slow for me, but it didn't take long before I was hooked into the story. I didn't find it as much suspenseful as I did mysterious. And I do like mysteries. There are several suspects so I couldn't guess the ending ... and it was quite a surprise! All in all, a compelling and enjoyable read.
Many thanks to the author / Joffee Books / Netgalley for the advance digital copy. Opinions expressed here are unbiased and entirely my own.
July 30, 2017
Loved this book that I opened up and found myself straight into the 1960's, what a fabulous era. A time when you worked hard so that you could party even harder, well that was what it was like for Ruby and Mary now that they were making new lives for themselves in Brighton. Life was certainly looking up for them both, Ruby's former life in Croydon was sketchy but mother to be Mary had dodged an abusive marriage. It was behind them now, a place to live, both landing on their feet with apprentice hairdressing jobs and of course Ruby's stalker. Thought I would just throw that one in. Not that she knew about it yet but definitely there all the same. Now I have that tingle down my back, the thought of someone watching when you don't know just really creeps me out and I am still fairly at the beginning of the book. Yikes!
It is Pearl, Ruby's cousin that has helped them fit into their new lives with their jobs, accommodation and of course the crazy parties but a series of murders begin to take place but of course it is something that always happens to someone else, that is until a girl in their group becomes a victim. This now close band of friends decide to do some digging about themselves. What they uncover takes them to some pretty unexpected dark places.
This is quite an uneasy read at times, for one you don't know why Ruby has left Croydon so quickly and for another has any of these murders anything directly to do with them? There are so many possibilities which I shall leave you to discover. It really does get to be an edge of your seat read. What memorable characters too. It is really funny how with some characters you give them accents when you read, well this book was like that for me. One of my favourite characters was Johnnie who owned the hairdressers where the girls worked, but everyone stands out each one memorable. Do also check out the glossary in the back of the book for words and slang used in this era. Looking forward to more of the same.
I wish to thank Jill Burkinshaw and Joffe Books for an ARC of this novel which I have reviewed honestly.
It is Pearl, Ruby's cousin that has helped them fit into their new lives with their jobs, accommodation and of course the crazy parties but a series of murders begin to take place but of course it is something that always happens to someone else, that is until a girl in their group becomes a victim. This now close band of friends decide to do some digging about themselves. What they uncover takes them to some pretty unexpected dark places.
This is quite an uneasy read at times, for one you don't know why Ruby has left Croydon so quickly and for another has any of these murders anything directly to do with them? There are so many possibilities which I shall leave you to discover. It really does get to be an edge of your seat read. What memorable characters too. It is really funny how with some characters you give them accents when you read, well this book was like that for me. One of my favourite characters was Johnnie who owned the hairdressers where the girls worked, but everyone stands out each one memorable. Do also check out the glossary in the back of the book for words and slang used in this era. Looking forward to more of the same.
I wish to thank Jill Burkinshaw and Joffe Books for an ARC of this novel which I have reviewed honestly.
July 20, 2017
This book is very well written and descriptive which makes the reader envisage the scenery and surroundings very realistically. There are many characters which develop gradually over the course of the book.
It is the 1960s and Ruby and Mary are running away from a violent life in London. They travel to Brighton to stay with Pearl in the hope of a peaceful life. Things are starting to look up when a girl is murdered. When Ruby notices a stranger watching her she worries that maybe she hasn’t escaped the violence and secrets of her life in London.
The book progresses at a steady pace as we join the girls on their journey to rebuild their lives and watch them build new friendships and turn amateur detective to find the murderer. There are many twists and turns along the way with a little Black Magic thrown in which makes for an intriguing read towards a fast paced and gripping ending that comes as a real shock.
A very good read and I thank Joffe Books for the advance copy.
It is the 1960s and Ruby and Mary are running away from a violent life in London. They travel to Brighton to stay with Pearl in the hope of a peaceful life. Things are starting to look up when a girl is murdered. When Ruby notices a stranger watching her she worries that maybe she hasn’t escaped the violence and secrets of her life in London.
The book progresses at a steady pace as we join the girls on their journey to rebuild their lives and watch them build new friendships and turn amateur detective to find the murderer. There are many twists and turns along the way with a little Black Magic thrown in which makes for an intriguing read towards a fast paced and gripping ending that comes as a real shock.
A very good read and I thank Joffe Books for the advance copy.
July 11, 2017
This is the story of two friends, Ruby and Mary, who run away from their abusive home lives in London to Brighton. They stay with Ruby's cousin Pearl a student nurse until they find jobs at a hairdressers owned by one of Pearls friends.
The story is set in the 1960's. Pearl is a party girl and and Ruby and Mary are soon accepted into the group. Mary is pregnant and Ruby has a terrible secret that we discover someone knows about,he is watching her. Running alongside this are a series of murders of young girls at a local beauty spot.
Ruby and her friends set out to investigate when one of their friends is murdered and as they get close to a suspect Mary is kidnapped just days before her baby is due to be born.
The race is on to find her, there are all sorts of rumours as to the reason these things have happened. Disgruntled ex's, witchcraft, a cult using the victims as human sacrifices.
Can Ruby solve the mystery of Mary's disappearance before anyone else dies and their new lives in Brighton are destroyed.
I won't reveal the finale, I will say though I enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more about the exploits of Ruby and her friends as I understand this is the first In a new series.
Thanks to Joffe books for the opportunity to read this as an arc.
The story is set in the 1960's. Pearl is a party girl and and Ruby and Mary are soon accepted into the group. Mary is pregnant and Ruby has a terrible secret that we discover someone knows about,he is watching her. Running alongside this are a series of murders of young girls at a local beauty spot.
Ruby and her friends set out to investigate when one of their friends is murdered and as they get close to a suspect Mary is kidnapped just days before her baby is due to be born.
The race is on to find her, there are all sorts of rumours as to the reason these things have happened. Disgruntled ex's, witchcraft, a cult using the victims as human sacrifices.
Can Ruby solve the mystery of Mary's disappearance before anyone else dies and their new lives in Brighton are destroyed.
I won't reveal the finale, I will say though I enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more about the exploits of Ruby and her friends as I understand this is the first In a new series.
Thanks to Joffe books for the opportunity to read this as an arc.
July 14, 2017
3 and 1 / 2 stars
This book is written in the first person.
It is the 1960’s and Ruby Baker and her best friend Mary leave home and run away to Brighton. Ruby is regularly beaten by her step-father and Mary is married to an abusive and very jealous man – and she is pregnant. And Ruby has a secret that she hopes no one ever finds out. Hitching a ride to Brighton, they show up at Ruby’s cousin Pearl’s apartment unannounced. Their plan it to find jobs and get their own place as soon as possible.
They luck into positions as apprentice hairdressers immediately. They enjoy themselves partying and having a good time, for it is now the 60’s when anything goes.
A strange man begins to follow Ruby around. She is justifiably scared. Then the murders start to occur. The little community of party girls is terrified. A serial killer is on the loose!
This book takes some very interesting twist and turns. It is well written and plotted. The books starts out casual and with just a little tension, but as the story builds, so does the suspense. This is my first Daisy White novel, but I immediately went to Amazon to check out her other works. Well done, Ms. White!
I want to thank NetGalley and Joffe Books for forwarding to me a copy of this book to read.
This book is written in the first person.
It is the 1960’s and Ruby Baker and her best friend Mary leave home and run away to Brighton. Ruby is regularly beaten by her step-father and Mary is married to an abusive and very jealous man – and she is pregnant. And Ruby has a secret that she hopes no one ever finds out. Hitching a ride to Brighton, they show up at Ruby’s cousin Pearl’s apartment unannounced. Their plan it to find jobs and get their own place as soon as possible.
They luck into positions as apprentice hairdressers immediately. They enjoy themselves partying and having a good time, for it is now the 60’s when anything goes.
A strange man begins to follow Ruby around. She is justifiably scared. Then the murders start to occur. The little community of party girls is terrified. A serial killer is on the loose!
This book takes some very interesting twist and turns. It is well written and plotted. The books starts out casual and with just a little tension, but as the story builds, so does the suspense. This is my first Daisy White novel, but I immediately went to Amazon to check out her other works. Well done, Ms. White!
I want to thank NetGalley and Joffe Books for forwarding to me a copy of this book to read.
July 20, 2017
Nineteen year old Ruby Baker and her pregnant best friend Mary have run away from an abusive lifestyle in London, Ruby from her stepfather and Mary from her husband.
They soon find work in Brighton and join the party scene with their new found friends.
After two murders in close succession, Ruby fears that she has been followed from London and someone knows her dark secret that she was hoping she has left behind in London.
I enjoyed reading about these interesting and realistic characters.
Before I left has loads of mystery and kept me guessing as to who the killer was. I did find the ending a bit too rushed though and never did quite understand ‘The Watcher’ and what that was all about and why, but if this is the start of a series, I look forward to reading more.
A well written enjoyable read, that I am happy to recommend.
I would like to thank Joffe Books and the author Daisy White for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
They soon find work in Brighton and join the party scene with their new found friends.
After two murders in close succession, Ruby fears that she has been followed from London and someone knows her dark secret that she was hoping she has left behind in London.
I enjoyed reading about these interesting and realistic characters.
Before I left has loads of mystery and kept me guessing as to who the killer was. I did find the ending a bit too rushed though and never did quite understand ‘The Watcher’ and what that was all about and why, but if this is the start of a series, I look forward to reading more.
A well written enjoyable read, that I am happy to recommend.
I would like to thank Joffe Books and the author Daisy White for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 10, 2017
This book is an historical fiction new adult thriller, and it's awesome. I loved the setting of Brighton in the 1960s. White described the scenery, clothing, hair, and behaviors so adeptly that I felt like I was living there (at least I wanted to be). She slowly sneaks in memories of the final mysterious night nineteen-year-old Ruby and her best friend Mary had before running away from their previous lives and starting over in a new town with new identities. Then she weaves in a serial killer plotline that has put the whole town on edge. There are wonderful characters like Johnnie, who runs a popular salon and gets all of his clients to work together on solving the mystery, and Victoria, who is a provocative 1960s girl familiar with clubs and living large. The book moves quickly and is full of eerie moments. The action takes you right up to the very last page. I highly recommend this to fans of thrillers. I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 20, 2017
Quite slow to start
I was sent an advance copy of this book to read and review by Joffe Books and I have to say that I wasn’t really impressed with the write up, however I did decide to take on the challenge and eventually finished reading it today. Sadly, it was very slow to start, being approximately one third of the way into it before we really saw anything like action. Even then it didn’t really hot up much until almost the end when it seemed to race towards a finish in a helter-skelter fashion.
The book is about two young girls, Ruby and Mary, who run away from an abusive father and husband, to go and stay with a cousin in Brighton. They are both worried that they will be followed and are very wary about what they tell people about their past. To add to the complications the married girl, Mary, is pregnant and very concerned that her husband may come to find her. But the storyline gets rather confused in as much as one minute Mary is worry about what will happen if her husband tracks her down, and the next minute they are both positive that he is too lazy and ignorant to bother to try and find her. There are quite a few inconsistencies in the story and if you don’t pay attention it is easy to get muddled and forget exactly what is happening. The other part of the plot is about girls being murdered and this side of it gets even more complicated when the locals take it upon themselves to try and find out who the murderer is as they don’t trust the police, and the local news reporters take it upon themselves to solve the crime themselves.
There are many twists and turns and red herrings flying around all over the place but I actually worked out who the killer was long before we got to the point where Ruby realises who it is, and it takes a while for the police to catch up with all the goings on and stop arresting or interviewing the wrong people. The story itself was very old fashioned, although that was probably because it’s set in the 1960’s. However, I found the writing very immature and, even allowing for the fact that it was a first novel for this new author, it was hard going in places. Even when there was action and excitement, I felt it was very forced and the dialogue was very stilted and the story just didn’t seem to flow along.
The truth is that I don’t think this book was my cup of tea and even although I stuck with it, I didn’t feel that it held my attention and I was quite relieved to reach the end of it so that I could move onto something better.
I was sent an advance copy of this book to read and review by Joffe Books and I have to say that I wasn’t really impressed with the write up, however I did decide to take on the challenge and eventually finished reading it today. Sadly, it was very slow to start, being approximately one third of the way into it before we really saw anything like action. Even then it didn’t really hot up much until almost the end when it seemed to race towards a finish in a helter-skelter fashion.
The book is about two young girls, Ruby and Mary, who run away from an abusive father and husband, to go and stay with a cousin in Brighton. They are both worried that they will be followed and are very wary about what they tell people about their past. To add to the complications the married girl, Mary, is pregnant and very concerned that her husband may come to find her. But the storyline gets rather confused in as much as one minute Mary is worry about what will happen if her husband tracks her down, and the next minute they are both positive that he is too lazy and ignorant to bother to try and find her. There are quite a few inconsistencies in the story and if you don’t pay attention it is easy to get muddled and forget exactly what is happening. The other part of the plot is about girls being murdered and this side of it gets even more complicated when the locals take it upon themselves to try and find out who the murderer is as they don’t trust the police, and the local news reporters take it upon themselves to solve the crime themselves.
There are many twists and turns and red herrings flying around all over the place but I actually worked out who the killer was long before we got to the point where Ruby realises who it is, and it takes a while for the police to catch up with all the goings on and stop arresting or interviewing the wrong people. The story itself was very old fashioned, although that was probably because it’s set in the 1960’s. However, I found the writing very immature and, even allowing for the fact that it was a first novel for this new author, it was hard going in places. Even when there was action and excitement, I felt it was very forced and the dialogue was very stilted and the story just didn’t seem to flow along.
The truth is that I don’t think this book was my cup of tea and even although I stuck with it, I didn’t feel that it held my attention and I was quite relieved to reach the end of it so that I could move onto something better.
July 27, 2017
Ruby is running away from an abusive stepdad, her pregnant friend Mary, an abusive husband. They swap Croydon for the bright lights of Brighton, thinking nobody would find them there. But somebody is watching them. Breaking into their flat leaving gifts and threatening phone calls. Then young women like themselves start turning up dead.
It’s a short book, only twenty three chapters with an array of interesting characters. I really did end up caring what happened to both Ruby, Mary and her baby. But, I’m just nit picking here, I didn’t think it was a psychological thriller. Well, to be more specific it started out as a psychological thriller but ended up being a good old murder mystery. I’m not saying that is a bad thing because I love a good mystery but it just wasn’t what I was expecting.
Another point is I still have no idea what year it was meant to be set. From the blurb it says the ‘sixties’ but the that was a whole ten year period and as someone who’s entire knowledge of the era comes from watching ‘Carry On’ films and listening to The Beatles I really would have like a bit more scene setting.
Overall an interesting book but I personally would have stuck with the murder mystery aspect of it and got rid of the stalker/psychological part but that, of course, is just my opinion.
It’s a short book, only twenty three chapters with an array of interesting characters. I really did end up caring what happened to both Ruby, Mary and her baby. But, I’m just nit picking here, I didn’t think it was a psychological thriller. Well, to be more specific it started out as a psychological thriller but ended up being a good old murder mystery. I’m not saying that is a bad thing because I love a good mystery but it just wasn’t what I was expecting.
Another point is I still have no idea what year it was meant to be set. From the blurb it says the ‘sixties’ but the that was a whole ten year period and as someone who’s entire knowledge of the era comes from watching ‘Carry On’ films and listening to The Beatles I really would have like a bit more scene setting.
Overall an interesting book but I personally would have stuck with the murder mystery aspect of it and got rid of the stalker/psychological part but that, of course, is just my opinion.
July 12, 2017
I wasn't sure if I was going to get on with this book as I tend to read more gritty thriller types but I was wrong.
I did enjoy reading this and became involved in the story. The descriptive writing gave depth to the characters and transported me to a different time and place.
It was not a white knuckle edge of your seat book but an entertaining read where you cared about the characters.
I did enjoy reading this and became involved in the story. The descriptive writing gave depth to the characters and transported me to a different time and place.
It was not a white knuckle edge of your seat book but an entertaining read where you cared about the characters.
February 19, 2018
Having never read a daisy white book I was looking forward to reading this and I wasn’t disappointed I was kept guessing till the end at how this would end.
Looking forward to the next book as I think there is more secrets to be revealed.
Looking forward to the next book as I think there is more secrets to be revealed.
July 28, 2017
My attention was captured from the beginning by Ruby and Mary's plight. A good suspenseful read.
August 5, 2017
This was one of those books I wish I could have given a half star, so let's just say my star rating is 3.5 (which is about what the average for the book is right now). I do have to say the book is very well written and the character development was so rich that these characters became real in my mind; I could picture each and every one of them as separate individuals. Even with so many in the book, it was easy for me to keep them straight. That gave the the oomph I needed to push me to check that 4 stars instead of the 3. It also gave me the incentive to keep reading this book. The tag line is "a gripping psychological thriller full of killer twists," but I didn't think it was full of twists at all. The first half to third was really just development of the characters and setting the stage. If the author intended us to feel mysterious about the reason and the way Ruby left her home town, there was no mystery in it at all--it was obvious what happened, from almost the beginning. Yes, she is being watched, but I didn't even feel that there was danger with her being watched. I had the list of the serial killer down to a couple even before that was stated at the very end, and I had figured it out long before that. There were some characters thrown in that were just silly, like the so-called witch, and I still have no idea what she was doing in this book. To add more of a witchy feel? Overall there is a mystery but the main feeling I left this book with was the bond between the two main girls and this wonderful community of friends they discovered, who took them in when they were at their low point in life and how they all helped each other along. If you're looking for a mind blowing who-done-it, this won't be your style, but if you like a period piece from the 60s with a great story and some characters you'll come to love with a background mystery, this one is for you.
April 15, 2018
Before/ I left
I love reading mysteries. Believe me, it was one of the best thrillers I have read. I got a little lost in a couple parts, but then, I was ok. You really have to keep track of all the people. I liked the fact that no matter how much you think you have it figured out..BAM, you don't. I'm starting to read the sequel tonight.. I highly recommend this book, and probably the next also.Fingers crossed
I love reading mysteries. Believe me, it was one of the best thrillers I have read. I got a little lost in a couple parts, but then, I was ok. You really have to keep track of all the people. I liked the fact that no matter how much you think you have it figured out..BAM, you don't. I'm starting to read the sequel tonight.. I highly recommend this book, and probably the next also.Fingers crossed
July 5, 2018
BEFORE I GO is a new series featuring Ruby Baker and her friends, set in Brighton in the 1960s - although I didn't find a lot of reference to the era, except for a couple of songs of the time. Although with so few people on the phone and without the immediate contact via mobile or social media, it did resonate an earlier era. Apart from that it could have been set in any time.
Nineteen year old Ruby and her pregnant best friend Mary are on the run. They hitch from London to Brighton (something that certainly wouldn't be safe to do these days) escaping abusive lifestyles - Ruby, her step father and Mary, her husband - as well as a dark secret. Their hope is to stay with Ruby's cousin Pearl, a student nurse (in nursing digs), in Brighton until they can get on their feet.
They soon obtain jobs at a local hairdressing salon owned by Johnnie, a friend of Pearl's, and together they join the party scene with Pearl and her friends, who then become their close-knit circle of friends. And soon Ruby and Mary are enjoying their new found freedom and their friends....until....
....Ruby finds someone watching her. Pearl's bedsit is broken into. Ruby's stepfather's bloodied signet ring. Who is watching her? Mary is afraid it's her abusive husband. Ruby is afraid it's her equally abusive stepfather. So who is it? And do they know her secret?
The story is slow going for almost half with the only mystery being that of "the watcher" as dubbed by Ruby. It is not until 40% in that a murder occurs, with Ruby stumbling on the body whilst out searching for her clutch bag she lost the night before. What is even more shocking that the victim is someone close to them and Ruby begins to fear for both her's and Mary's safety. Is "the watcher" a murder? Is Ruby or Mary his next target?
Soon after the first murder, another occurs and then Mary goes missing just days before she is due to give birth. Setting up an impromptu investigation bureau in Johnnie's salon, Ruby, Johnnie, staff members and even locals gather every day in the race to solve the murders and Mary's disappearance. All sorts of rumours begin to surface about disgruntled exes, housing developments, witchcraft and human sacrifices. As days pass with Mary still missing, Ruby begins to suspect the murderer is waiting for Mary to give birth, needing her baby for his/her ritual.
Can Ruby solve the mystery and save Mary in time?
BEFORE I LEFT is a well written and interesting read. A little different than the usual style of thriller or mystery but still quite enjoyable. The "watcher" story arc didn't seem to be completed and maybe it will resurface again in future books in the series, though their identity is revealed and why they were watching Ruby but there was no real reason behind why they taunted her (except a loose one). I honestly did not guess the murderer, though I did suspect them at one point but quickly dismissed it. So it was a revealing climax. There are a few twists and turns in the plot and a few red herrings, before a final conclusion emerges.
More of a mystery than a thriller, BEFORE I GO is a well written and enjoyable read.
Nineteen year old Ruby and her pregnant best friend Mary are on the run. They hitch from London to Brighton (something that certainly wouldn't be safe to do these days) escaping abusive lifestyles - Ruby, her step father and Mary, her husband - as well as a dark secret. Their hope is to stay with Ruby's cousin Pearl, a student nurse (in nursing digs), in Brighton until they can get on their feet.
They soon obtain jobs at a local hairdressing salon owned by Johnnie, a friend of Pearl's, and together they join the party scene with Pearl and her friends, who then become their close-knit circle of friends. And soon Ruby and Mary are enjoying their new found freedom and their friends....until....
....Ruby finds someone watching her. Pearl's bedsit is broken into. Ruby's stepfather's bloodied signet ring. Who is watching her? Mary is afraid it's her abusive husband. Ruby is afraid it's her equally abusive stepfather. So who is it? And do they know her secret?
The story is slow going for almost half with the only mystery being that of "the watcher" as dubbed by Ruby. It is not until 40% in that a murder occurs, with Ruby stumbling on the body whilst out searching for her clutch bag she lost the night before. What is even more shocking that the victim is someone close to them and Ruby begins to fear for both her's and Mary's safety. Is "the watcher" a murder? Is Ruby or Mary his next target?
Soon after the first murder, another occurs and then Mary goes missing just days before she is due to give birth. Setting up an impromptu investigation bureau in Johnnie's salon, Ruby, Johnnie, staff members and even locals gather every day in the race to solve the murders and Mary's disappearance. All sorts of rumours begin to surface about disgruntled exes, housing developments, witchcraft and human sacrifices. As days pass with Mary still missing, Ruby begins to suspect the murderer is waiting for Mary to give birth, needing her baby for his/her ritual.
Can Ruby solve the mystery and save Mary in time?
BEFORE I LEFT is a well written and interesting read. A little different than the usual style of thriller or mystery but still quite enjoyable. The "watcher" story arc didn't seem to be completed and maybe it will resurface again in future books in the series, though their identity is revealed and why they were watching Ruby but there was no real reason behind why they taunted her (except a loose one). I honestly did not guess the murderer, though I did suspect them at one point but quickly dismissed it. So it was a revealing climax. There are a few twists and turns in the plot and a few red herrings, before a final conclusion emerges.
More of a mystery than a thriller, BEFORE I GO is a well written and enjoyable read.
July 24, 2017
Before I Left is quite an atmospheric story. It's the 1960s and the party scene in Brighton is in full swing. The era comes through quite strongly with a real sense of the carefree times that young people were experiencing, possibly for the first time. We meet Ruby Baker and her best friend, Mary Evans. They're new to Brighton after running away from home in Croydon and a life of domestic violence.
Ruby and Mary instantly fit in with a group of existing friends and find themselves with jobs and a place to live almost instantaneously which is ever so slightly implausible. But even if this is a little hard to believe, I think one of the strongest elements in this book is the friendships. Not just Ruby and Mary, who are incredibly close, but also the other members of their group. I particularly liked Johnnie, the hairdresser, who I thought was a really interesting character and sort of a fairy godfather to the girls. All the friends looked out for each other which I thought was a lovely aspect to the story.
There are two strands running through the story. One is that a mysterious man is watching Ruby. What does he know about her reasons for running away from home? The other strand is a series of what appear to be sacrificial murders. I must admit that whilst one is wound up quite well, I wasn't entirely sure what the point of the other strand was. Apparently this is the first in a series featuring Ruby so perhaps it's explained in the second book.
Before I Left is an easy book to read with some very engaging characters and a storyline that is fairly unique and not quite what I was expecting.
Ruby and Mary instantly fit in with a group of existing friends and find themselves with jobs and a place to live almost instantaneously which is ever so slightly implausible. But even if this is a little hard to believe, I think one of the strongest elements in this book is the friendships. Not just Ruby and Mary, who are incredibly close, but also the other members of their group. I particularly liked Johnnie, the hairdresser, who I thought was a really interesting character and sort of a fairy godfather to the girls. All the friends looked out for each other which I thought was a lovely aspect to the story.
There are two strands running through the story. One is that a mysterious man is watching Ruby. What does he know about her reasons for running away from home? The other strand is a series of what appear to be sacrificial murders. I must admit that whilst one is wound up quite well, I wasn't entirely sure what the point of the other strand was. Apparently this is the first in a series featuring Ruby so perhaps it's explained in the second book.
Before I Left is an easy book to read with some very engaging characters and a storyline that is fairly unique and not quite what I was expecting.
September 11, 2018
This book was entered in The Wishing Shelf Book Awards. This is what our readers thought:
Title: Before I Left
Author: Daisy White
Star Rating: 5 Stars
Number of Readers: 17
Stats
Editing: 9/10
Writing Style: 9/10
Content: 9/10
Cover: 8/10
Of the 17 readers:
16 would read another book by this author.
14 thought the cover was good or excellent.
17 felt it was easy to follow.
17 would recommend this story to another reader to try.
11 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘plotting a story’.
6 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘developing the characters’.
17 felt the pacing was good or excellent.
16 thought the author understood the readership and what they wanted.
Readers’ Comments
‘Plenty of pace which is so important in this genre. Kept my guessing till the very end. A few plot problems here and there; the odd hole that needs filling. But, all in all, a very enjoyable read. Not gory which I liked.’ Female reader, aged 41
‘A solid thriller. The author seems to know this genre well and what the readers want.’ Female reader, aged 54
‘The historical setting - 1960s Brighton – was excellent described. The murder plot was not so distinct from many other, but it was the setting that helped it to stand apart. I would happily pick up another of this author’s books’ Male reader, aged 50
‘With a book like this, it is all about the twists. Well, I’m glad to say there were a lot, and all of them were rather clever.’ Male reader, aged 67
To Sum It Up:
‘A gripping murder/mystery written by a talented author. A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
Title: Before I Left
Author: Daisy White
Star Rating: 5 Stars
Number of Readers: 17
Stats
Editing: 9/10
Writing Style: 9/10
Content: 9/10
Cover: 8/10
Of the 17 readers:
16 would read another book by this author.
14 thought the cover was good or excellent.
17 felt it was easy to follow.
17 would recommend this story to another reader to try.
11 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘plotting a story’.
6 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘developing the characters’.
17 felt the pacing was good or excellent.
16 thought the author understood the readership and what they wanted.
Readers’ Comments
‘Plenty of pace which is so important in this genre. Kept my guessing till the very end. A few plot problems here and there; the odd hole that needs filling. But, all in all, a very enjoyable read. Not gory which I liked.’ Female reader, aged 41
‘A solid thriller. The author seems to know this genre well and what the readers want.’ Female reader, aged 54
‘The historical setting - 1960s Brighton – was excellent described. The murder plot was not so distinct from many other, but it was the setting that helped it to stand apart. I would happily pick up another of this author’s books’ Male reader, aged 50
‘With a book like this, it is all about the twists. Well, I’m glad to say there were a lot, and all of them were rather clever.’ Male reader, aged 67
To Sum It Up:
‘A gripping murder/mystery written by a talented author. A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
July 24, 2017
Setting: Brighton, UK; 1960's. Ruby and her pregnant best friend Mary have run away from London to Brighton to escape abusive relationships, Ruby at the hands of her stepfather and Mary at the hands of her husband. They turn up unannounced on the doorstep of Ruby's cousin who is a nurse and are immediately 'adopted' by her and her friends, getting into the party culture of 1960s Brighton. Ruby and Mary both end up working in a local hairdressers but Ruby is apparently being stalked by a mysterious stranger, who seems to know her or about her - quite concerning for Ruby who seems to have something to hide since her 'escape' from London. Then, one of their group of friends is found dead at a spot where another victim was found several years before and soon Ruby, Mary and their friends are involved in a dangerous scheme to try to catch the killer.
There was something about the writing style that didn't particularly grab me from the outset. Ruby tells the story in the first person, which is not always a bad thing but didn't appear to ring true and the apparent setting in the 1960's didn't come across strongly - just a few mentions of what songs were on the jukebox or being played at the clubs, mentions of mods and rockers - which didn't convince me I was in the 1960's. It was definitely a slow starter and the characters didn't evoke much sympathy from me even when under threat although the plot and storyline were okay. Only a 3 star read for me - 6/10 - but many thanks to Joffe Books for an ARC in exchange for an impartial review.
There was something about the writing style that didn't particularly grab me from the outset. Ruby tells the story in the first person, which is not always a bad thing but didn't appear to ring true and the apparent setting in the 1960's didn't come across strongly - just a few mentions of what songs were on the jukebox or being played at the clubs, mentions of mods and rockers - which didn't convince me I was in the 1960's. It was definitely a slow starter and the characters didn't evoke much sympathy from me even when under threat although the plot and storyline were okay. Only a 3 star read for me - 6/10 - but many thanks to Joffe Books for an ARC in exchange for an impartial review.
January 21, 2018
I really enjoyed this book, it took me back to my youth, all the innocence and excitement of the 60's, love, sex and rock and roll, and telephone boxes!!! I think Ruby's new boss is a typical 60's character, no money, but terribly flamboyant. I just loved his character. Move over Vidal Sassoon. The characters themselves are very colourful and you can feel yourself back in those times when everyone seemed to be happy and carefree.
I don't normally like books written in the first person, but this was very entertaining without too much in depth thinking.
Ruby is being "stalked", as we call it these days, and she's not sure if it's in her imagination. After the death of one of their friends, things take a sinister turn, and the story reaches a dramatic conclusion.
It's a good tale and a 60's version of the Agatha Christie ilk.
Not as gritty as I normally read, and of course there are limited forensics, which of course means people do get away with murder!!!
An excellent debut novel.
Thank you to Joffe publishers for providing me with an advanced copy.
I don't normally like books written in the first person, but this was very entertaining without too much in depth thinking.
Ruby is being "stalked", as we call it these days, and she's not sure if it's in her imagination. After the death of one of their friends, things take a sinister turn, and the story reaches a dramatic conclusion.
It's a good tale and a 60's version of the Agatha Christie ilk.
Not as gritty as I normally read, and of course there are limited forensics, which of course means people do get away with murder!!!
An excellent debut novel.
Thank you to Joffe publishers for providing me with an advanced copy.
July 17, 2017
Never having been to Brighton, but having spent quite a bit of time in London in the 1960's, I loved going back to that time in England.
Ruby and pregnant Mary, both escaping abusive homes, start a new life with Ruby's cousin Pearl in Brighton. Quickly they're enjoying their new jobs at Johnny's hair salon and their exciting nights out with a group of glamorous new friends.
But soon their happiness is threatened. One of their friends is murdered, and Ruby suspects she has a stalker who seems to know the secret she's desperate to forget and keep hidden.
With the touching love of the girls' deep friendship, the mystery of the murder(s) and ritual killings, witches and myths, and the vivid descriptions of Brighton, this was a highly enjoyable read. I sincerely hope there will be a follow-up book, I'd love to meet the girls again and go back to Brighton. Can we expect a series? Please?
Thank you Netgalley and Joffe Books for the eARC.
Ruby and pregnant Mary, both escaping abusive homes, start a new life with Ruby's cousin Pearl in Brighton. Quickly they're enjoying their new jobs at Johnny's hair salon and their exciting nights out with a group of glamorous new friends.
But soon their happiness is threatened. One of their friends is murdered, and Ruby suspects she has a stalker who seems to know the secret she's desperate to forget and keep hidden.
With the touching love of the girls' deep friendship, the mystery of the murder(s) and ritual killings, witches and myths, and the vivid descriptions of Brighton, this was a highly enjoyable read. I sincerely hope there will be a follow-up book, I'd love to meet the girls again and go back to Brighton. Can we expect a series? Please?
Thank you Netgalley and Joffe Books for the eARC.
July 19, 2017
I like the sense of time and place which this book engenders. It is set in Brighton during the 1960s.
The main characters are Ruby and her friend Mary. They are both escaping to safety in Brighton, from abusive relationships in their hometown; Croydon.
The story is told through the eyes of Ruby who has escaped from her abusive father. Her friend Mary has escaped from her violent controlling husband, she is also expecting a baby.
I won't go into the plot, as it would spoil the story for others. However what I will say is that the sense of tension builds from early on. The novel has a wide range of characters, these are well crafted and believable.
It eventually becomes clear why the book has this title.
There are a few twists and turns in the plot and a few red herrings, before a final conclusion emerges.
I give my thanks to Netgalley and Joffe books for a copy in exchange for this review.
The main characters are Ruby and her friend Mary. They are both escaping to safety in Brighton, from abusive relationships in their hometown; Croydon.
The story is told through the eyes of Ruby who has escaped from her abusive father. Her friend Mary has escaped from her violent controlling husband, she is also expecting a baby.
I won't go into the plot, as it would spoil the story for others. However what I will say is that the sense of tension builds from early on. The novel has a wide range of characters, these are well crafted and believable.
It eventually becomes clear why the book has this title.
There are a few twists and turns in the plot and a few red herrings, before a final conclusion emerges.
I give my thanks to Netgalley and Joffe books for a copy in exchange for this review.
July 16, 2017
Mary and Ruby have left a life behind in Croydon. Ruby is nineteen whilst Mary is married and pregnant.- leaving behind a tempestuous relationship. They arrive at their cousins in Brighton to begin anew. Set in the 1960’s when communication and transport amongst other things, were not quite so simple, they find jobs and although still wary think they have left the past behind them. Murders of young women start occurring and Ruby can’t help feel being watched. Are the two connected? This book grabs you from the start wondering what has happened in the past and is it going to affect the future? I took to the main characters, Ruby in particular as she came across well and despite what had happened, everything she did had the best intentions. A well written enjoyable read.
I voluntarily chose to read this ARC and all opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased
I voluntarily chose to read this ARC and all opinions in this review are my own and completely unbiased
September 29, 2017
A Great Thrilling, Chilling Tale
Daisy White’s books are always a pleasure to read and ‘Before I Left’ is no exception.
Ruby Baker, the main character, escaping from a brutal past life with her best friend Mary, has a dark secret. Once the secret is revealed, your feelings towards Ruby may change as you weigh up the moral implications. The storyline is a traditional murder plot but this twisted tale is more about the fascinating characters depicted and the pages keep on turning as you decide who you can or cannot trust.
Daisy is a talented writer and her dramatic descriptions of Brighton bring it alive, vibrantly portraying it’s moody side and also the lively party life in the 60’s. The exciting ending, although it answers all your questions, is left open and I am eagerly looking forward to the next in the series.
This book comes highly recommended.
Daisy White’s books are always a pleasure to read and ‘Before I Left’ is no exception.
Ruby Baker, the main character, escaping from a brutal past life with her best friend Mary, has a dark secret. Once the secret is revealed, your feelings towards Ruby may change as you weigh up the moral implications. The storyline is a traditional murder plot but this twisted tale is more about the fascinating characters depicted and the pages keep on turning as you decide who you can or cannot trust.
Daisy is a talented writer and her dramatic descriptions of Brighton bring it alive, vibrantly portraying it’s moody side and also the lively party life in the 60’s. The exciting ending, although it answers all your questions, is left open and I am eagerly looking forward to the next in the series.
This book comes highly recommended.
May 25, 2018
I loved the evocation of 1960s Brighton, a city which buzzed with life and possibilities. The author brought the city and period to life with well-chosen details alongside the prevalent attitudes and dialogue for the times.
The camaraderie between the guys in Johnnie’s group was the glue that held everything together. They looked out for one another, partied together, and set about solving the murder of one of their own when they felt the police were lacking.
Behind all the glamour and buzz, secrets added to the tension and danger facing Ruby and her cousin, Mary.
While this is a crime story, it is ultimately about the power of friendship to heal old wounds, protect those who are vulnerable, and offer hope for a new future. Though slow to start, the story built to a terrific climax.
The camaraderie between the guys in Johnnie’s group was the glue that held everything together. They looked out for one another, partied together, and set about solving the murder of one of their own when they felt the police were lacking.
Behind all the glamour and buzz, secrets added to the tension and danger facing Ruby and her cousin, Mary.
While this is a crime story, it is ultimately about the power of friendship to heal old wounds, protect those who are vulnerable, and offer hope for a new future. Though slow to start, the story built to a terrific climax.
July 20, 2017
Ruby and Mary runaway together to get away from the abuse and start their lives new. Mary is pregnant and leaving her husband. Ruby is leaving her mother, and siblings and their abusive stepfather. But Mary is hiding a secret only she and her mother knows. Or so she thought. Some one has been watching her and leaving her "gifts". Then a friend of their is murdered. Did "The Watcher" kill her friend or is there someone else out there?Will Ruby be able to keep her secret or will she become another victim? Read the book to find out. I would like to thank Joffe Books for the copy of this story. The review is done voluntarily and of my own opinions
July 26, 2017
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This is the first book that I have read by this author and I really enjoyed it, the plot was great and the descriptive nature used really helped you to envisage the scenes and the locations in the book, it really brought them to life. It didn’t take me very long to read and I finished it in just over one sitting. I loved the characters and they worked really well together as the plot developed right up to the excellent ending. I am already looking forward to reading more from Daisy – Four stars from me for this one – I thoroughly enjoyed it!!
This is the first book that I have read by this author and I really enjoyed it, the plot was great and the descriptive nature used really helped you to envisage the scenes and the locations in the book, it really brought them to life. It didn’t take me very long to read and I finished it in just over one sitting. I loved the characters and they worked really well together as the plot developed right up to the excellent ending. I am already looking forward to reading more from Daisy – Four stars from me for this one – I thoroughly enjoyed it!!
August 28, 2017
I was given an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I absolutely loved this book! The first time I have read something in this genre, and I will definitely read more. The book had several plot twists which made it exciting to read, as I couldn't wait to find out what happened next! I was left guessing right up to the end of the book. The characters' personalities came through really well. A fast-paced, high stakes book with complex characters, I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a good introduction to the crime/mystery genre of books.
(Also posted on Amazon.co.uk)
I absolutely loved this book! The first time I have read something in this genre, and I will definitely read more. The book had several plot twists which made it exciting to read, as I couldn't wait to find out what happened next! I was left guessing right up to the end of the book. The characters' personalities came through really well. A fast-paced, high stakes book with complex characters, I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a good introduction to the crime/mystery genre of books.
(Also posted on Amazon.co.uk)
July 19, 2017
I love Brighton, so when I came across Before I Left I couldn’t resist picking up a murder mystery set in one of my favourite summer destinations. Fun, flirty, and filled with joy de vivre Before I Left is the perfect balance between mystery, romance, and occult drama.
Would I recommend this book? Hands down, yes! It’s ideal for those readers who crave a little rush but don’t want the gory details to keep you up at night. Also, perfect for lovers of 60s British fashion as the descriptive elements are spot on… and may have inspired a shopping spree.
Would I recommend this book? Hands down, yes! It’s ideal for those readers who crave a little rush but don’t want the gory details to keep you up at night. Also, perfect for lovers of 60s British fashion as the descriptive elements are spot on… and may have inspired a shopping spree.
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