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Operation #2
Operation Vanished
In 2018, the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary executed Operation Wormwood, an investigation into a mysterious disease that targeted some of the worst criminals this province has ever seen.
At the same time, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police were executing Operation Vanished, a special task force whose duty was to solve the historical murders of women and children.
RCMP Corporal Gail McNaughton has just transferred into the Major Crime Unit. As its newest investigator, she is given a stack of missing and murder files dating back to the 1950s. These crimes prove to be a challenge to investigate: most of the witnesses have died or aged, memories have faded, scenes were not secured to today’s standards, and DNA testing was not available at the time. Corporal McNaughton befriends Larry Morgan, an expert on Newfoundland and Labrador history who is also the son of one of the murdered women. Together they put together a list of suspects and begin to dig up ghosts from the past. McNaughton discovers that the files may be linked, and she sets out to prove her theory that a serial killer had been operating in rural Newfoundland when these crimes were committed.
Praise for Helen C. Escott
“Operation Vanished is the epitome of what an author can achieve with the knowledge and skill to back up their work. Expertly plotted and perfectly executed, Operation Vanished is the missing-persons thriller to end all missing-persons thrillers and a massive achievement for author Helen Escott.” — Matthew LeDrew, author of Cinders
“Operation Wormwood is one heck of a thriller.” — The Telegram
Helen C. Escott’s first novel, Operation Wormwood, was a top five finalist for the 2019 Arthur Ellis Awards, Best First Crime Novel, by the Crime Writers of Canada.
At the same time, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police were executing Operation Vanished, a special task force whose duty was to solve the historical murders of women and children.
RCMP Corporal Gail McNaughton has just transferred into the Major Crime Unit. As its newest investigator, she is given a stack of missing and murder files dating back to the 1950s. These crimes prove to be a challenge to investigate: most of the witnesses have died or aged, memories have faded, scenes were not secured to today’s standards, and DNA testing was not available at the time. Corporal McNaughton befriends Larry Morgan, an expert on Newfoundland and Labrador history who is also the son of one of the murdered women. Together they put together a list of suspects and begin to dig up ghosts from the past. McNaughton discovers that the files may be linked, and she sets out to prove her theory that a serial killer had been operating in rural Newfoundland when these crimes were committed.
Praise for Helen C. Escott
“Operation Vanished is the epitome of what an author can achieve with the knowledge and skill to back up their work. Expertly plotted and perfectly executed, Operation Vanished is the missing-persons thriller to end all missing-persons thrillers and a massive achievement for author Helen Escott.” — Matthew LeDrew, author of Cinders
“Operation Wormwood is one heck of a thriller.” — The Telegram
Helen C. Escott’s first novel, Operation Wormwood, was a top five finalist for the 2019 Arthur Ellis Awards, Best First Crime Novel, by the Crime Writers of Canada.
280 pages, Paperback
Published July 25, 2019
12 people are currently reading
1722 people want to read
About the author
Helen C. Escott
12 books152 followersHelen C. Escott is an award-winning Canadian author and playwright whose cinematic storytelling and deep insight into the human condition have earned her a distinguished place among contemporary crime writers.
A former senior communications strategist with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, she brings a rare authenticity and precision to her work—translating decades of real-world experience into gripping narratives that pulse with realism, emotional truth, and suspense.
Her bestselling Operation Series—a six-book collection of crime thrillers—has captivated readers across Canada and beyond. The first book in the series was shortlisted for the Crime Writers of Canada’s Best First Crime Novel Award. The entire series has been optioned for television and lauded for its chillingly current investigations, unpredictable twists, and deeply human characters. The series’ success was further recognized with a Silver Medal for Best Regional Fiction at the 24th Annual Independent Publisher Book Awards and the 2023 Best Atlantic-Published Book Award from the Atlantic Publishers Marketing Association (APMA).
Helen’s writing is distinguished by its cinematic pace, vivid realism, and emotional resonance. Her works reflect not only the complexities of crime and justice but also the moral and psychological landscapes of those who live within them. Drawing upon her years as a Civilian Member of the RCMP, she weaves intricate plots rooted in authenticity and insight. Her career with the RCMP included leading communications for high-profile national operations—such as the force’s response to the September 11th terrorist attacks—and developing regional strategies to combat organized crime and outlaw biker gangs. She also designed and taught a media relations course delivered across Canada, including at the Canadian Police College in Ottawa, and served as a communications strategist at the 2010 Vancouver Olympics.
Her literary and public contributions have been widely recognized. In 2021, she received the Veterans Ombud Commendation Lifetime Contribution Award for her outstanding work with veterans. Among her other honors are the CLB Governor and Commandants' Medallion (2017) for excellence in volunteering and fundraising, the Governor General’s Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers (2019), and the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador Certificate of Recognition (2022) for her advocacy on behalf of veterans.
Published Works
Crime Thriller Series (Flanker Press):
• Operation Wormwood — A top-five finalist for the 2019 Arthur Ellis Awards for Best First Crime Novel.
• The Reckoning — The powerful conclusion to Operation Wormwood, acclaimed for its dark, ingenious plotting.
• Operation Vanished — Winner of the Silver Medal for Best Regional Fiction at the 24th Annual Independent Publisher Book Awards.
• Operation Trafficked — A lightning-paced and chillingly relevant thriller exploring the global human trafficking network.
• Operation Masonic — A gripping, historically layered mystery set within the secretive world of Freemasonry.
• Operation Betrayed — A haunting exploration of betrayal, justice, and the societal biases that shape investigations.
Standalone Novels:
• We Will Meet Again — A multi-generational story of love, loss, and resilience that spans nearly a century.
• In Search of Adventure: 70 Years of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police in Newfoundland and Labrador — A comprehensive collection of memoirs and personal stories, named one of the top Atlantic Canadian memoirs.
• I Am Funny Like That — A memoir of humorous essays reflecting on motherhood, marriage, and the lighter side of a writer’s life.
Legacy and Media Presence
A frequent guest on television, radio, and literary panels, Helen C. Escott remains an influential voice in Canadian arts and culture. Her background in broadcasting, coupled with her deep understanding of communications, has made her a sought-after speaker for teaching courses on writing, and w
A former senior communications strategist with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, she brings a rare authenticity and precision to her work—translating decades of real-world experience into gripping narratives that pulse with realism, emotional truth, and suspense.
Her bestselling Operation Series—a six-book collection of crime thrillers—has captivated readers across Canada and beyond. The first book in the series was shortlisted for the Crime Writers of Canada’s Best First Crime Novel Award. The entire series has been optioned for television and lauded for its chillingly current investigations, unpredictable twists, and deeply human characters. The series’ success was further recognized with a Silver Medal for Best Regional Fiction at the 24th Annual Independent Publisher Book Awards and the 2023 Best Atlantic-Published Book Award from the Atlantic Publishers Marketing Association (APMA).
Helen’s writing is distinguished by its cinematic pace, vivid realism, and emotional resonance. Her works reflect not only the complexities of crime and justice but also the moral and psychological landscapes of those who live within them. Drawing upon her years as a Civilian Member of the RCMP, she weaves intricate plots rooted in authenticity and insight. Her career with the RCMP included leading communications for high-profile national operations—such as the force’s response to the September 11th terrorist attacks—and developing regional strategies to combat organized crime and outlaw biker gangs. She also designed and taught a media relations course delivered across Canada, including at the Canadian Police College in Ottawa, and served as a communications strategist at the 2010 Vancouver Olympics.
Her literary and public contributions have been widely recognized. In 2021, she received the Veterans Ombud Commendation Lifetime Contribution Award for her outstanding work with veterans. Among her other honors are the CLB Governor and Commandants' Medallion (2017) for excellence in volunteering and fundraising, the Governor General’s Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers (2019), and the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador Certificate of Recognition (2022) for her advocacy on behalf of veterans.
Published Works
Crime Thriller Series (Flanker Press):
• Operation Wormwood — A top-five finalist for the 2019 Arthur Ellis Awards for Best First Crime Novel.
• The Reckoning — The powerful conclusion to Operation Wormwood, acclaimed for its dark, ingenious plotting.
• Operation Vanished — Winner of the Silver Medal for Best Regional Fiction at the 24th Annual Independent Publisher Book Awards.
• Operation Trafficked — A lightning-paced and chillingly relevant thriller exploring the global human trafficking network.
• Operation Masonic — A gripping, historically layered mystery set within the secretive world of Freemasonry.
• Operation Betrayed — A haunting exploration of betrayal, justice, and the societal biases that shape investigations.
Standalone Novels:
• We Will Meet Again — A multi-generational story of love, loss, and resilience that spans nearly a century.
• In Search of Adventure: 70 Years of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police in Newfoundland and Labrador — A comprehensive collection of memoirs and personal stories, named one of the top Atlantic Canadian memoirs.
• I Am Funny Like That — A memoir of humorous essays reflecting on motherhood, marriage, and the lighter side of a writer’s life.
Legacy and Media Presence
A frequent guest on television, radio, and literary panels, Helen C. Escott remains an influential voice in Canadian arts and culture. Her background in broadcasting, coupled with her deep understanding of communications, has made her a sought-after speaker for teaching courses on writing, and w
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
October 16, 2019
After loving Helen C. Escott’s debut novel about policing in Newfoundland and Labrador, I could not wait to get my hands on this second piece. Set again on The Rock, Escott takes readers into a darker and oft-forgotten side of missing person inquiries from yesteryear. After spending a decade working for the RCMP elsewhere, Constable Gail McNaughton has returned home to work in St. John’s. Trying to fill her father’s shoes, Gail is assigned the daunting task of looking into a number of missing persons cases fro mother 1950s, all having long gone cold. While trying to speak to some of the few remaining witnesses, Gail is told of a local lore than might explain at least those women who went missing and never returned. Some feel that it is likely the faeries that took them, sometimes keeping them and returning changelings, other times killing them for some misdeed. Whatever the case, Constable McNaughton is trying to use her policing skills and keep the tales to a minimum. As she works with one victim’s son to unearth truths over six decades in the past, she finds a loose link to a number of the events, something that might prove to be a solid lead. With many who were adults at the time either dead or decrepit, it will be up to Constable McNaughton to find justice for these women, who were all but forgotten at a time when the missing had their names drift off along the ocean winds. A powerful novel that digs to the core of Canadian history and lore, Escott delivers brilliantly in this second novel. Recommended to those who love a good cold case mystery, as well as the reader who enjoys a little Canadiana with their reading experience.
I could not say enough when I read Helen C. Escott’s opening novel and I am sure the same will be said again here. I was pulled into the middle of an explosive theme of crime thriller and am so pleased to see that this came out for readers to discover. Constable Gail McNaughton proves to be a wonderfully complex protagonist whose past and present mix together nicely as she seeks to reveal hard truths about Newfoundland. Raised in the RCMP tradition, McNaughton could almost say that policing is in her blood, which becomes apparent as she investigates these crimes. The reader learns much about her in a personal and professional manner throughout, which permits a closer connection as the story progresses. While trying to understand the lore many older Newfoundlanders hold dear, McNaughton is forced to face her own issues and grow from the experiences. Others that surround her prove equally interesting as they help shape the story in a variety of ways, some of which could not be expected from the outset. The story itself was not only entertaining, but also highly educations and deeply moving. Missing and murdered women is an issue currently being addressed in a small way in Canada, though the Newfoundland angle and the explanation that comes from the narrative is highly sobering and will likely touch on the heartstrings of many readers. Escott knows how to weave a tale that is both eye-opening and will resonate for a long time, which might actually bring more than lip service to the issue at hand. I can only hope that others will be as compelled as I have to learn more. I was pleased to hear that Helen Escott has many more ideas that come to mind during her walks with that blessed family pet.
Kudos, Madam Escott, for a stunning novel. I am so pleased to have come across your work and hope to read more in the coming years.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
I could not say enough when I read Helen C. Escott’s opening novel and I am sure the same will be said again here. I was pulled into the middle of an explosive theme of crime thriller and am so pleased to see that this came out for readers to discover. Constable Gail McNaughton proves to be a wonderfully complex protagonist whose past and present mix together nicely as she seeks to reveal hard truths about Newfoundland. Raised in the RCMP tradition, McNaughton could almost say that policing is in her blood, which becomes apparent as she investigates these crimes. The reader learns much about her in a personal and professional manner throughout, which permits a closer connection as the story progresses. While trying to understand the lore many older Newfoundlanders hold dear, McNaughton is forced to face her own issues and grow from the experiences. Others that surround her prove equally interesting as they help shape the story in a variety of ways, some of which could not be expected from the outset. The story itself was not only entertaining, but also highly educations and deeply moving. Missing and murdered women is an issue currently being addressed in a small way in Canada, though the Newfoundland angle and the explanation that comes from the narrative is highly sobering and will likely touch on the heartstrings of many readers. Escott knows how to weave a tale that is both eye-opening and will resonate for a long time, which might actually bring more than lip service to the issue at hand. I can only hope that others will be as compelled as I have to learn more. I was pleased to hear that Helen Escott has many more ideas that come to mind during her walks with that blessed family pet.
Kudos, Madam Escott, for a stunning novel. I am so pleased to have come across your work and hope to read more in the coming years.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
A Book for All Seasons, a different sort of Book Challenge: https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/...
September 17, 2019
This was a terrific mystery/police procedural. The sense of place was vividly described. Foggy St. John’s, Newfoundland, with stately homes overlooking the harbour, the fog, the scenic northern coast with spectacular views of the ocean, forest trails, all written to transport the reader to the setting. The characters came to life on the page.
The story takes place in the near present, at approximately the same time as the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary was conducting Operation Wormwood. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police are executing Operation Vanished, the goal being to solve cold cases of historical murders of women and children dating back to the 1950s. RCMP Corporal Gail McNaughton, the newest member of the Major Crime Unit has just transferred to St. John’s and has been given a stack of cold cases to investigate and decides to start with the oldest ones from the 1950s. This seems like an impossible task.
At the time DNA evidence was a technique not available for decades, the crime scenes were compromised, and many of the witnesses and relatives who are still alive have fading memories. The murders were spread out throughout the province, from its capital to several distant outports. As McNaughton carries out her interviews, she narrows down her investigation to the murders of three women and a child who vanished in the same time period. She also believes she is on the trail of a serial killer despite the distance between the places where their bodies were located. Rumours and blame have followed several people for decades because no one was ever charged with the crimes.
McNaughton faces harassment from an older officer in the department who believes women have no place in the police force. Fortunately, she is supported by a sympathetic police chief and an expert in Newfoundland history. This historian is the son of one of the murdered women who suspects a nearby relative with whom he has refused to speak for years. Together McNaughton and the historian put together a list of suspects. The main culprits she believes were highly respected people who would be considered above suspicion when the killings were first investigated.
High on the list are a doctor, a priest, and a judge, all now in their 90s. The dedicated and compassionate policewoman manages to interview all possible suspects, determined to find justice for the murdered women and provide closure to their relatives.
I thought this was an expertly plotted mystery. My only misgiving was a plot device where a character’s nightmares are included in a manner that makes the reader believe that the horrific event is actually happening, and then the person wakes up. This has always annoyed me.
Highly recommended for its unique and well-written mystery involving cases unsolved for 68 years. Hoping there will be more of these books forthcoming.* 4.5 stars *
The story takes place in the near present, at approximately the same time as the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary was conducting Operation Wormwood. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police are executing Operation Vanished, the goal being to solve cold cases of historical murders of women and children dating back to the 1950s. RCMP Corporal Gail McNaughton, the newest member of the Major Crime Unit has just transferred to St. John’s and has been given a stack of cold cases to investigate and decides to start with the oldest ones from the 1950s. This seems like an impossible task.
At the time DNA evidence was a technique not available for decades, the crime scenes were compromised, and many of the witnesses and relatives who are still alive have fading memories. The murders were spread out throughout the province, from its capital to several distant outports. As McNaughton carries out her interviews, she narrows down her investigation to the murders of three women and a child who vanished in the same time period. She also believes she is on the trail of a serial killer despite the distance between the places where their bodies were located. Rumours and blame have followed several people for decades because no one was ever charged with the crimes.
McNaughton faces harassment from an older officer in the department who believes women have no place in the police force. Fortunately, she is supported by a sympathetic police chief and an expert in Newfoundland history. This historian is the son of one of the murdered women who suspects a nearby relative with whom he has refused to speak for years. Together McNaughton and the historian put together a list of suspects. The main culprits she believes were highly respected people who would be considered above suspicion when the killings were first investigated.
High on the list are a doctor, a priest, and a judge, all now in their 90s. The dedicated and compassionate policewoman manages to interview all possible suspects, determined to find justice for the murdered women and provide closure to their relatives.
I thought this was an expertly plotted mystery. My only misgiving was a plot device where a character’s nightmares are included in a manner that makes the reader believe that the horrific event is actually happening, and then the person wakes up. This has always annoyed me.
Highly recommended for its unique and well-written mystery involving cases unsolved for 68 years. Hoping there will be more of these books forthcoming.* 4.5 stars *
February 3, 2023
I found Operation Vanished fascinating!
The book starts with RCMP Corporal Gail McNaughton being transferred into the Major Crime Unit. As its newest investigator, she is given a stack of files on missing or murdered women dating back to the 1950s.
This book grabbed me from the beginning, and I had difficulty putting it down once I had started it. Although I had never heard of historical crimes (which are crimes dating back to the 1950s, where witnesses have passed away and memories have faded), McNaughton was so compassionate as she followed the leads of the long-missing and/or murdered. Also, her supervisor had her back from day one, which I appreciated.
I have a feeling the author's time as a retired Civilian Member of the RCMP is part of what makes this series so believable. This is my first book by Ms. Escott but it definitely won't be my last!!
The book starts with RCMP Corporal Gail McNaughton being transferred into the Major Crime Unit. As its newest investigator, she is given a stack of files on missing or murdered women dating back to the 1950s.
This book grabbed me from the beginning, and I had difficulty putting it down once I had started it. Although I had never heard of historical crimes (which are crimes dating back to the 1950s, where witnesses have passed away and memories have faded), McNaughton was so compassionate as she followed the leads of the long-missing and/or murdered. Also, her supervisor had her back from day one, which I appreciated.
I have a feeling the author's time as a retired Civilian Member of the RCMP is part of what makes this series so believable. This is my first book by Ms. Escott but it definitely won't be my last!!
May 20, 2023
Operation Vanished by Helen C. Escott was a very well-written crime thriller set in Newfoundland. The lead character, RCMP Corporal Gail McNaughton, is given a stack of historic murder and missing person files from as early as the 1950s to investigate. As the new officer on the unit and a female to boot, we see the challenges Gail faces to prove herself capable in a male-dominated field. We also see the history of women’s rights under the law in this novel, with some fairy folklore thrown into the mix. I enjoyed the well-developed characters in this story and hope to see some of them again in future stories by Helen.
August 6, 2019
I really enjoyed reading this book. It had a great plot, it was believable, and it kept me engaged. The main character, Gail, has her challenges being a female in a traditional "male world", dealing with her mother's ill health, as well as her own self doubts. The story line is quite captivating and alluring and you wont help but root for Gail as she investigates crimes that all but the families in rural Newfoundland have forgotten.
Gail is portrayed as a genuine, caring, and compassionate person who tries something different that really works. She thinks outside the normal investigation box and, with the help of those around her with particular skill sets that are unconventional and untried, she seeks to solve unspeakable crimes that are, up to this point, unsolvable.
By "thinking like the victims", Gail sets out to get justice for these woman despite the lack of support from some of her colleagues who don't like the changes that are happening within policing in general. The author has added lots of facts and details to back up the story and you really don't know if you are reading about real people or fictional characters. Either way, you will be rooting for Gail to bring an end to the suffering of the families in this beautifully written book. Everything is tied together throughout to mold the fabric of a wonderful tale and to keep you guessing about whodunit. Well done Helen. I loved this book.
Gail is portrayed as a genuine, caring, and compassionate person who tries something different that really works. She thinks outside the normal investigation box and, with the help of those around her with particular skill sets that are unconventional and untried, she seeks to solve unspeakable crimes that are, up to this point, unsolvable.
By "thinking like the victims", Gail sets out to get justice for these woman despite the lack of support from some of her colleagues who don't like the changes that are happening within policing in general. The author has added lots of facts and details to back up the story and you really don't know if you are reading about real people or fictional characters. Either way, you will be rooting for Gail to bring an end to the suffering of the families in this beautifully written book. Everything is tied together throughout to mold the fabric of a wonderful tale and to keep you guessing about whodunit. Well done Helen. I loved this book.
August 17, 2019
I liked Operation Vanished, more so than Operation Wormwood. RCMP Officer Gail McNaughton is assigned to try and solve the unsolved abductions and murders of 3 women from the 1950s. While dedicated mystery/thriller readers will be familiar with the profiles of serial killers, and may even guess at some of the plot turns, Vanished is a very good Newfoundland RCMP crime story.
August 3, 2019
This book is amazing! Soon as I started I didn’t want to put it down! A true page turner! A very very well written book ! Just as amazing as her first book Operation Wormwood only it’s gets better! I hope there will more to this ‘Operation’ series! Ten out of ten!
August 7, 2022
Operation Vanished by Helen C. Escott was our 13th staff reads selection.
RCMP officer, Corporal Gail McNaughton has transferred back home to St. John’s NFL to help with her aging parents, passing up what would have been a big promotion in Ottawa. Like her father before her, Gail has decided to join the Major Crimes unit. Being the newest investigator Gail is given a stack of ‘cold cases’ from the 1950’s that took place mainly in the small communities along the coast of Newfoundland. Gail soon becomes friends with a local historian who himself has lost his mother when he was just a young boy. Larry Morgan was just 5 years old when his mother disappears and is later found dead. The community and especially his father and uncle are forever changed by the murder. And now Larry has great hopes after all these years that Gail will be the investigator to finally give the family some answers and closure. As Larry provides Gail with all the local happenings from the time of the events Gail starts to piece together a time line and it looks like she may finally be able to solve these cases. But Gail has a few obstacles in her way. Not everyone is happy to see Gail arrive in their unit and she soon finds out that someone may be trying to sabotage her investigation. Also, the locals have a ‘faerie’ theory as to what happened in these cases that surprises her. But Gail will not give up until she can give some of the remaining families, especially Larry Morgan and his father some closure.
This was a fantastic read. I really enjoyed it right from the first page and I cannot wait to read the other books in the series. A 5-star read. Highly recommend it!
RCMP officer, Corporal Gail McNaughton has transferred back home to St. John’s NFL to help with her aging parents, passing up what would have been a big promotion in Ottawa. Like her father before her, Gail has decided to join the Major Crimes unit. Being the newest investigator Gail is given a stack of ‘cold cases’ from the 1950’s that took place mainly in the small communities along the coast of Newfoundland. Gail soon becomes friends with a local historian who himself has lost his mother when he was just a young boy. Larry Morgan was just 5 years old when his mother disappears and is later found dead. The community and especially his father and uncle are forever changed by the murder. And now Larry has great hopes after all these years that Gail will be the investigator to finally give the family some answers and closure. As Larry provides Gail with all the local happenings from the time of the events Gail starts to piece together a time line and it looks like she may finally be able to solve these cases. But Gail has a few obstacles in her way. Not everyone is happy to see Gail arrive in their unit and she soon finds out that someone may be trying to sabotage her investigation. Also, the locals have a ‘faerie’ theory as to what happened in these cases that surprises her. But Gail will not give up until she can give some of the remaining families, especially Larry Morgan and his father some closure.
This was a fantastic read. I really enjoyed it right from the first page and I cannot wait to read the other books in the series. A 5-star read. Highly recommend it!
June 28, 2025
A very solid follow up to her debut Operation Wormwood. I just love the fast pace of these books and of course I have a soft spot for NL function. I find lately every book I read seems to be 500+ pages and more often than not I feel 100 of those pages were gratuitous. I deeply appreciate that her books are succinct, to the point and very enjoyable. I already have the other 3 sitting on my shelf. For any of my Regina friends, the RPL now also has these as part of their collection. you’re welcome :)
July 13, 2020
A great read. Thoroughly enjoyed it.
July 24, 2020
I read Helen’s first novel Operation Wormwood, which left me happy there are still people out there willing to tackle difficult topics. I was not disappointed by Operation Vanished, again dealing with a not so stellar history on the equality of women in and out of the work place as well as children rights as “people”. Can not wait for the next one.
September 30, 2021
A page turner had to finish the day I started. A fabulous read that reflects on the realities of the treatment of women decades ago and how much (and little) has changed. Newfoundland culture, folklore and its people are beautifully woven into the story. Definitely recommend this book and I'm looking forward to her other crime novels as well!
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August 3, 2019Finished it in one night - fabulous read with an excellent conclusion!
September 7, 2022
Another great crime thriller by a local author. The writing was great and thought-provoking! I look forward to reading more.
October 31, 2022
One word… woe
April 4, 2025
This was an excellent read. I feel one of her best works. I have 1 more to read in her collection.
May 29, 2025
This was my first time reading one of Helen C Escott’s books. I love crime fiction and Helen certainly knows how to put this type of story together. The descriptions of the people, the old superstitions about fairies, the lovely old architecture of the homes and colourful home colours and characters spring to life in her writing. I enjoyed the ebb and flow of the book. The dreams caught you unaware at times, which was different but I was ok with them. The description of her relationship with her parents and how aging of them changes that relationship is one many of us in this generation can relate to. The painstaking steps taken by the main character to try to solve these old “disappearances” and murders of women and children was fascinating, especially where there are now new policing methods and tools like DNA testing which wasn’t available until many years after these crimes happened . How she dealt with current personal discrimination in the workplace for a female in policing was also realistic and well handled by the character.
I am looking forward to reading more of Helen’s books.
I am looking forward to reading more of Helen’s books.
November 1, 2024
Spoiler alert.
On the heels of a Stephen King novel (Holly), at the close of which the dastardly do-badders do not get their comeuppance, their just desserts, so to speak, I was ready, with Operation Vanished, for retribution, a proper as-it-fits-the-crime kind of retribution that does not occur in Holly. Sigh.
I enjoyed Operation Vanished--and I like Corporal Gail McNaughton--but gosh couldn't evil people just for once not win?
Also: Where were the young women kept during the final few days of their lives? How was their incarceration kept secret from the local population and the police, who were searching for them?
I feel like we, Ms Escott's readers, deserve to know.
On the heels of a Stephen King novel (Holly), at the close of which the dastardly do-badders do not get their comeuppance, their just desserts, so to speak, I was ready, with Operation Vanished, for retribution, a proper as-it-fits-the-crime kind of retribution that does not occur in Holly. Sigh.
I enjoyed Operation Vanished--and I like Corporal Gail McNaughton--but gosh couldn't evil people just for once not win?
Also: Where were the young women kept during the final few days of their lives? How was their incarceration kept secret from the local population and the police, who were searching for them?
I feel like we, Ms Escott's readers, deserve to know.
July 30, 2020
After reading Operation Wormwood, I was pleased to see that Helen Escott had written another novel. I was not disappointed with Operation Vanished. Very well written, loved the characters so real to life! This novel was a real page turned and hated to put it down, could have kept reading it in one sitting. Love Helen's style of writing! Hoping to see more novels written by her.
April 6, 2022
Another great read by Helen Escott. The premise of historical cases being solved after many years makes for an engaging read as does the character of Gail McNaughton. Gail is good at her job as well as having a vulnerable side when it comes to her family and her PTSD. Helen gets to the core of the mystery quickly and her book is just the right length.
March 10, 2021
Decided to read this in between Operation Wormwood & the Reckoning. It did not disappoint! Something hits differently with a mystery set in your hometown. I usually don’t read so many local books in a row, but I couldn’t put these ones down. I want more!
July 19, 2021
I loved this book and am looking forward to reading the sequel.
The main character is based on a friend of mine that I have known since grade 9.
Very interesting reading about someone you know as the main character.
The main character is based on a friend of mine that I have known since grade 9.
Very interesting reading about someone you know as the main character.
September 13, 2021
I loved this book ! I’m so happy that I found this local Newfoundland author!!! I love to support local and I am thrilled that I have found someone that writes amazing novels in the genre that I love !!! Can’t wait to read more from her !!!!!
May 18, 2023
This was an excellent book. It kept me interested the moment I read the first page. It's raw, thought provoking and draws the reader into the lives of the innocents, the police detectives and their families. Bravo Helen, you've outdone yourself yet again.
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October 28, 2021i never thought any newfoundland author could compare to earl pilgrim until i read helen escotts novels keep them coming mrs escott
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November 4, 2021Excellent excellent book. Set in Newfoundland these cold cases are solved. Very well written - a real page turner.
February 19, 2023
Holy shit the twists and characters in this.
Just read it.
It's mind blowing what a key of evidence can do to blow a case wide open.
Just read it.
It's mind blowing what a key of evidence can do to blow a case wide open.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 21, 2024
Got this book on vacation in NL and it was a quick read. I really enjoyed the facts and history of the province sprinkled in. It was a good mystery, too.
October 26, 2024
Excellent book. Love the familiar places and lore.
October 28, 2024
Loved this read, super easy but captivating! I couldn’t wait to turn the next page as it always kept me on edge wondering what was next
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