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Leaving Phoenix

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EVERYONE HAS A PAST.
HOW PREPARED ARE WE TO GO THERE?

Born in a crucible, Phoebe has been living on borrowed time. Faced with a series of excruciating truths and a cryptic letter from a mysterious stranger, she becomes consumed with learning the truth about her past.

In the course of her journey, she finds that answers may come at a terrible price as she begins to witness an insidious evil and underbelly to her existence she could have never imagined.

- - - - -

From the award-winning author of The Other Cheek, a story of descent into a nightmare existence of abuse at the hands of a close family member, comes the thrilling tale of self-discovery that results after becoming embroiled in the decisions and lives of strangers.

When twenty-something Phoebe LaFlamme heads west to pursue further details of baffling correspondence filled with stunning evidence of a family secret, she has no idea of the danger she unwittingly chases. Can she trust the letter's mysterious author? What else does this person know? Are this person's associates as well-intentioned as she wants to believe?

And will Phoebe have any hint at all of the danger she draws closer toward?

-----

LEAVING PHOENIX ~ "A high-octane thriller with lots of heart, and something to say!"

300 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 6, 2021

64 people are currently reading
1173 people want to read

About the author

Jafe Danbury

5 books387 followers
Jafe Danbury hails from the trenches of the Hollywood production scene, where he spent decades as a camera operator, director of photography, and director. He has also worked as a teacher and is a decorated U.S. Navy veteran.

He enjoys noodling on the guitar, long road trips, likes his bacon crispy, and loves a good dive bar––especially if it happens to have a twenty-two-foot shuffleboard table. He prefers a leisurely walk to running, unless being chased by a clown with a chainsaw.

Jafe and his lovely bride currently reside in central California and are working on their exit plan. Their children consist of several rescue dogs and a couple of cockatoos.

He is the author of five riveting suspense thrillers.

His latest, BEFORE THE LIGHTS GO OUT, is
both pulse-pounding and heartwarming, and is a noteworthy Christmastime thriller that will keep you turning the pages as it delivers "all the feels!" This highly anticipated standalone novel is scheduled for a December 20th publication date, and it may just be Jafe's best yet. It arrives just in time for CHRISTMAS! 🎄🎄🎄

SO MUCH FOREVER, is an incendiary Book 3 in the award-winning Phoenix Series, and it was recently named WINNER of the coveted BookFest Award!

❌, Book 2 in the series, is the riveting follow-up to the critically-acclaimed novel, LEAVING PHOENIX.

His debut novel, THE OTHER CHEEK, was awarded a Finalist Medal for "Best First Novel" at the 2020 Next Generation Indie Book Awards. It is based on the author's true story.

Check out the author's Linktree here:
https://linktr.ee/JafeDanbury ✍️

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews
3 reviews1 follower
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September 15, 2021
This is the second book I’ve read from this wonderful writer Jafe Danbury. He writes in such a way that draws you right into the smells and heat of the landscape, it’s a riveting read and I couldn’t wait to finish it,
Together with an interesting soundtrack of the period of time this novel is based also provides a mental backdrop to the whole experience.A truly great story.
I Highly recommend this!
Derek Holt
Profile Image for Janet.
400 reviews27 followers
October 4, 2022
Oh boy, wow! This book was very enjoyable! Love his writing style, loved the characters, except for the one of course! This books a keeper!
Profile Image for Reader Views.
4,666 reviews327 followers
June 26, 2022
Leaving Phoenix” is Jafe Danbury’s second novel and describes one woman’s journey into a past she never knew she had. Her past may be the extreme, but Danbury leaves us with a truth–we all have a past, but are we willing to confront it?

Phoebe La Flamme is a young woman with a chihuahua named Prick and an obsession with garage sales and vinyl records. She was adopted when she was five and had a good childhood. Her dad, lovingly called Pop Pop, is the cornerstone of her life. One day, he receives a letter that changes everything.

Phoebe learns she has a grandpa, Liam, who wants to meet her. He lives in California and Phoebe decides to take a road trip in her latest gift, a Road Runner with a Hemi 426. Before she leaves Pop Pop, he tells her the name she was given at birth, Phoenix. When she gets to California, Phoenix meets Liam and there is an instant connection. She learns she is the product of an abusive relationship, an unsuccessful abortion, and a man who murdered her mother.

This latest information has given her a new appreciation of life. She realizes she should not even be alive. Phoenix puts no time limit on her stay in California. She stays at her grandpa’s house, and it is there she learns about the murder of her mother by a man called Pirate. She also begins to remember events she had repressed her whole life. It is at grandpa’s she decides the man who murdered her mother should pay, but she will need a team to pull that off. When the perfect night arrives, the plan begins motion. What ensues is a tainted drink, a car chase, and a whole lot of poop.

Danbury has done an excellent job at creating the character of Phoenix. She is a woman who, like everyone, is just living her life. She has pets, a job, and an apartment. Every day is similar. As the story builds, she becomes a woman who in on a mission to learn who she is. I am not an adopted child, so I can only imagine what she was feeling when she learned this information. As the story moves forward, she learns she can open her heart to the new people who are her family. She also learns she can give and receive love.

“Leaving Phoenix” is full of heartwarming moments and hold your breath events. The author has created characters who are believable. The budding romance between Phoenix and Curt bring a refreshing side-story to a heart racing plot. This gritty tale is also full of iconic music lyrics from the 1970s and forward.

“Leaving Phoenix” by Jafe Danbury is easy and fun to read. It is void of grammatical errors, and while there is use of adult language, it was not excessive. I would recommend this book to adults who enjoy a thriller, romance, and a throwback to the days of rock-n roll.
Profile Image for Literary Reviewer.
1,283 reviews102 followers
November 4, 2021
There is actually no reason Phoenix should be alive and breathing. There is, indeed, every reason for her to never have made it to ever see the light of day. Hers is a life born of violence, tragedy, and a series of true wonders. As an adult, she is finally learning her truth. After being adopted and living with a loving father, it is revealed to Phoenix that she not only has a biological family member still alive, but he very much wants to meet her. Thus begins the long journey to meet a man she has never known and the first steps to solving her mother’s tragic murder.

Leaving Phoenix, by Jafe Danbury, is the thrilling tale of Phoenix Laflamme’s extraordinary life and the past that haunts her. She is, in her own right, a miracle. The last night she saw her mother, Phoenix was an unwitting witness to her murder. She alone holds the key to finding the person responsible after twenty years. Small details--memories--are being triggered as she slowly tells her side of the story.

Danbury is a master storyteller. Phoenix’s life is nothing short of a miracle, and the intricate plot he lays out for his main character traces her life from conception through her fearless resolve to find her mother’s killer at any cost. Phoenix is a phenomenal main character and is a picture of strength and determination. The relationship she is able to form with her grandfather after two decades with her adoptive father is touching and quite amazing. In addition, her willingness to relive the past is truly a testament to her incredible strength of character.

The relationship brewing between Phoenix and Curt makes for a beautiful tale of kindness and hope. In a story that could be fraught with darkness, their willingness to help one another adds a sweet element to the story. Curt’s character is the perfect addition to Phoenix’s mission.

As far as thrillers go, Danbury has covered all the bases. Main character, Phoenix Laflamme is resilient, driven, and unshakable. Her mission to find the man who murdered her mother leads her down a dangerous road and puts her face to face with ghosts of her own. Cover to cover, Danbury’s writing packs a punch and hits all the major elements needed for a successful thriller--romance, action, heartache, and perseverance.
Profile Image for Blair Boone.
3 reviews9 followers
October 12, 2022
Phoebe has lived a beautiful life. Growing up with a loving adoptive father whose appreciation for the everlasting beauty of music and the vivacity of life, Phoebe has reached the age of 22... without accomplishing much in the way of forming an identity. One day, a letter arrives from her biological grandfather urging her to travel to California for a family reunion of sorts. With her father's blessing, Phoebe (now using the name her birth mother gave her: Phoenix) hops in her 1970 Plymoth Road Runner and heads to meet the family she never knew existed.

Her mother's past, however, quickly catches up to her, and Phoenix begins to uncover the sinister details behind her mother's untimely death. With the help of her grandfather and a few handsome locals, Phoenix embarks on a quest to solve her mother's murder and catch her killer.

Both thrilling and captivating, this story checks all the boxes for an addictive, heart-pumping read. Complete with a soundtrack of classic rock road trip songs, "Leaving Phoenix" provides the reader a glance into the complicated journey of a young woman's attempt to find her identity. All of us have faced similar experiences entering adulthood, and this book perfectly captures the feelings of vulnerability, fear, and excitement that mix together to form a beautiful mess of emotions that guide us each on our journeys. Buckle up for an amazing read that you won't want to put down- and wrap your arms around nostalgia and youthful audacity.
Profile Image for Hijabi_booklover.
585 reviews12 followers
June 20, 2024
This is the second book that I have read by Mr. Jafe and I can say he never disappoints. One major aspect of Jafe’s books are he isn’t afraid to take on the hard to digest controversial issues that most people want to sweep under the rug. This book has a few controversial issues and hard scenes, but it ultimately sets the reader up for the long haul ride and to gain background information on how to understand why the characters are the way they are. I do not agree with the controversial issues within this book, however I throughly appreciate Jafe’s attention to detail and thorough research to ensure that every aspect is accurate.

In a world where people are always trying to be the same. Dare to be different. Don’t be afraid to “Push the envelope”. Don’t be afraid to talk about the hard topics. Don’t be afraid to be unique. I feel like Jafe Danbury does all this not only in his life (I get the feeling), but also in his writing and with his characters.

This book follows the main character of Rose McGinn, a 17 year old girl who is trying to make her way in the music world as a singer. When Rose meets “pirate” and enters an abusive relationship and falls pregnant, she is told to get rid of the child.

Tragic events take place and Phoenix loses her mother, adopted by Pop Pop as she calls him and raised up as Phoebe. She is raised in Arizona. Phoenix has no idea about her past until she receives a cryptic letter from Liam, claiming to be her grandpa. As Phoebe now going by Phoenix decides to go to California to meet Liam and see if what he is claiming is true.

While visiting Liam in California, Phoenix finds herself, in a variety of tricky situations, will Phoenix make it out or will she succumb to her past tragedies. Phoenix and Liam team up with a couple other characters we meet along the way and challenge the Pirate.

Throughout all the trials in this book we watch as Phoenix begins to come out of her shell, and becomes a woman. It was so much fun watching Phoenix’s character come to life and how her and all the characters were so diverse, and the character building is wonderful.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book , I will admit due to my religious views parts of this book were hard for me to read. But that being said I love reading books that challenge me and make me feel uncomfortable. I found this book hard to put down, and when I wasn’t reading it I found myself thinking about it. I immediately started the second book as soon as I finished the first book. I can’t wait to see what is in store for Phoenix, Curt and Pop Pop. I highly recommend this book if you are looking for something unique and something that really makes you think. I felt like it was a medium to fast paced book. This book is easily a 5 star read for me, as I found I couldn’t put it down, and I was throughly invested in the characters.
Profile Image for Linda.
262 reviews5 followers
December 12, 2022
Jafe Danbury delivers a roller-coaster of a ride in this domestic thriller that focuses in two timelines on the character of Phoenix who is on a mission to discover her origins. Part of the book takes place in Phoenix, AZ, my stomping grounds, so it was of particular interest to me as I read about locations I know well. In addition to that, this tale takes us through southern Arizona and over to the California coast in a sweet ride with a nice sound system, perfect for a well-engineered mixed tape or two that will have you singing along. The story settles in the Pebble Beach area, also familiar to me through a vacation or two, where Phoenix finally finds answers, and incredible peril. This author has no limits to his imagination. I don't think I've ever read a climactic scene quite like the one I found here. There are laughs along the way, with love and poignancy too. And danger. There's a boatload of danger lurking around the nearby corners. What this book is not, is boring. I had a great time reading it. Thanks to Jafe Danbury for my copy!
Profile Image for Emma Jenkins.
32 reviews
December 8, 2022
This book tells the story of Phoenix and her journey through America to discover the truth of her haunting past. The story is both touching and thrilling due to its fantastic character development and rich imagery. The classic 70s and 80s soundtrack gives the reader further insight into Phoenix's inner thoughts and feelings. Highly recommended 📖 👌
Profile Image for Lacey Bennett.
246 reviews2 followers
December 5, 2023
Not an overly exciting book with a pretty basic and predictable plot. It's definitely not challenging and extremely easy to read but you can definitely put it down and forget about it.
Profile Image for Karen.
535 reviews9 followers
July 28, 2024
Loved this book. First one by this author that I have read. On to the sequel now.
Profile Image for Hayley Bernard-Ryan.
Author 8 books36 followers
July 12, 2025
I loved this book so much! This was my first book by Jafe Danbury and I’m so glad I read it. He truly is a masterful storyteller. In this novel, a young woman is on a dangerous roadtrip to uncover the dark mystery of her past while slowly discovering herself along the way. Phoenix is one of the best developed characters I’ve ever read. She’s funny, resilient and adorable- someone I would like to be friends with in real life! I loved her interactions with her animals too, the fact that she brought along her little dog and bird with her on her journey was just the best! All the characters were so well written and memorable. Besides Phoenix, Curt was also a favorite…and the villain, my goodness! What a roadtrip! I’m adding the music listed in this novel to a playlist and I’m going to play it in the order it is listed on Phoenix’s cassette tape- I love a good rock and roll soundtrack! “Leaving Phoenix” was an excellent blend of thriller, mystery, romance and comedy. I felt like I was watching a movie, and this story is a lot better than many movies I’ve seen. I can’t wait to read more!
Profile Image for Kelli.
156 reviews
January 13, 2025
Jafe Danbury’s Leaving Phoenix is a gripping tale of self-discovery and danger, filled with twists that keep you guessing. Phoebe LaFlamme’s quest to uncover the truth about her past is compelling, with the story delving into family secrets and the dark corners of human nature.

The pacing is strong, the tension builds effectively, and the mystery is layered enough to keep readers engaged. While the narrative occasionally leans on familiar thriller tropes, Danbury’s writing is sharp, and Phoebe’s emotional depth adds heart to the high-stakes plot.

Perfect for fans of suspenseful mysteries with a touch of psychological intrigue, Leaving Phoenix delivers a satisfying, thought-provoking read. Highly recommended for those who enjoy a good balance of action and emotion.
Profile Image for Jithendra Jithu.
2,306 reviews117 followers
April 1, 2022
LEAVING PHOENIX

by Jafe Danbury

Rating:4.9/5

Description:

EVERYONE HAS A PAST.
HOW PREPARED ARE WE TO GO THERE?

Born in a crucible, Phoebe has been living on borrowed time. Faced with a series of excruciating truths and a cryptic letter from a mysterious stranger, she becomes consumed with learning the truth about her past.In the course of her journey, she finds that answers may come at a terrible price as she begins to witness an insidious evil and underbelly to her existence she could have never imagined. From the award-winning author of THE OTHER CHEEK, a story of descent into a nightmare existence of abuse at the hands of a close family member, comes the thrilling tale of self-discovery that results after becoming embroiled in the decisions and lives of strangers.When twenty-something Phoebe LaFlamme heads west to pursue further details of baffling correspondence filled with stunning evidence of a family secret, she has no idea of the danger she unwittingly chases. Can she trust the letter's mysterious author?

Review:

👉Talking about the title of the book, the title of the book is really so interesting to read.

👉The cover is appealing and attractive as well.Writing style of the author is quite appreciable .

👉The plot revolves around the life of Phoebe LaFlamme, she was adopted at the age of five by a caring guy who referred to her as 'Pop Pop.' She was in her twenties at the time, and everything had been going swimmingly flowing for her. But, as life usually does, things take an unforeseen turn. Her life began to unravel when she got a letter from a mystery man living in California. He claimed to know where her birth mother resides. She was unable to remain idle after discovering this and embarked on a mission to discover her true existence. This journey was fraught with peril, with unexpected twists and turns at every turn.What are her past's hidden secrets? Who will accompany her on this journey? Will there be a resolution now that everything has been revealed?

For complete read do order the book on @amazondotin

👉I just loved reading the novel through out and could feel all emotions that characters were going through...

Happy reading!
Profile Image for Readbyheart .
581 reviews68 followers
February 13, 2022
•When we don't know much about something, we are pleased with what we have. However, the circumstance changes as soon as we learn anything new or discover that something is hidden. Humans can't help but be curious about people and things. Let's explore how our curiosity may occasionally backfire; presenting LEAVING PHOENIX by JAFE DANBURY. The cover page is as appealing as the title and content.

•The plot revolves around the life of Phoebe LaFlamme, she was adopted at the age of five by a caring guy who referred to her as 'Pop Pop.' She was in her twenties at the time, and everything had been going swimmingly flowing for her. But, as life usually does, things take an unforeseen turn. Her life began to unravel when she got a letter from a mystery man living in California. He claimed to know where her birth mother resides. She was unable to remain idle after discovering this and embarked on a mission to discover her true existence. This journey was fraught with peril, with unexpected twists and turns at every turn.

What are her past's hidden secrets? Who will accompany her on this journey? Will there be a resolution now that everything has been revealed? Get your copy today!

•All the events throughout the course of the novel seem credible and the way their story sizzles is worth praise. Thrillers can be difficult to write but this story nails it. Truly engaging story that will grasp your attention.

•The author has devised a narrative that is both engaging and compelling. The characters are fascinating, with Phoebe's character sketch being both realistic and traditionally depicted. The narrative contains everything that we, as crime thriller readers, look for. The author's attention to detail allows the reader to see what they are reading and creates a dynamic presentation. Give it a go; you'll enjoy the author's work.
106 reviews8 followers
November 6, 2021
Raised as an orphan since she was five, Phoebe lives with her adoptive father. In her twenties, Phoebe receives some cryptic letters, hinting that they know something about her parentage. Chasing the secrets of her family, she travels west in the hopes of uncovering hidden truths. Unknowingly, Phoebe heads towards danger. The book is full of nostalgia, and if you've grown up in and around Arizona and Monterey County, you would love the picturesque descriptions we get in the book.

Phoebe LaFlamme's character development with the story progressing is brilliant. As the story develops further, we read the happenings all around these intriguing places that Phoebe goes to, and the nostalgia would hit you, even if you did not belong to that time! There are a plethora of music references, which I, for one, couldn't wrap my head around since I've grown in a different cultural background. But, for all you who have grown up in the States, you would surely love all the refs. The author pays immense regard to detail in his writing. The book feels very atmospheric, driven by drama and a mysterious overtone.

The characters in the book feel like we have always known them. The whole narrative and the author's way of writing feel fresh and contemporary! The evil rooted behind the light setting of the plot brings in some unexpected turns. I felt so familiar with the protagonist Phoebe that it baffled me. The author undeniably has an astounding touch with his characters. I have seen locals talk about how good of a job the book does with the local references, and I haven't lived in those places, but the author sure made me feel familiar with everything! I'm diving right in to read The Other Creek, another one of the author's works I have heard several praises for!
Profile Image for Khyati Gautam.
886 reviews249 followers
October 7, 2021
Leaving Phoenix kickstarts with a punch as Rose, a twenty-something visits the maternity centre for the abortion. She goes through the procedure anticipating delivering a dead baby. But a miracle occurs magically that compels Rose to run away from the evil 'bad guy' and protect herself.

A few years down the line, we see another twenty-something girl, Phoebe LaFlamme, heading west to pursue further details of baffling correspondence filled with stunning evidence of a family secret, she has no idea of the danger she unwittingly chases. Where is she leading? What's to come for her?

This book effectively brings out the character of Phoebe as a girl who finds herself as she comes face to face with the dark truths of her life. Jafe does a good job at serving us a crime thriller peppered with musical references and picturesque vistas of Arizona and Monterey Country. The character development very well complements the development of the plot that brings back the nostalgia of the 70s dipped in music.

Jafe's writing has an attention to detail. Details that bring alive the narrative and makes it easier for readers to relate to it. I am in awe of his ability to talk about his characters candidly as if he has been friends with them forever!

Leaving Phoenix is dramatic and absorbing. Grim and fun with its variety of characters. Phoebe wins hearts but I absolutely loved her Pop Pop too. He's darn cute! For some reason, I didn't find the thrilling part completely baffling. Nonetheless, it is a good read for those who love contemporary fiction. Check this out for Jafe's wonderful writing and some song recommendations.
119 reviews4 followers
March 31, 2022
Jafe’s writing really knocked me. This book has a very well constructed story. It captures the readers from the beginning with a story line that gets better and better as you turn each page! It was interesting and captivating from the start.

Having had no understanding of this book's content before opening it, I must admit it rocked my little world a bit. It is incredibly well written and engaging from the start. Creatively written book as the plot pulls you into the characters story. It captures readers from the beginning with a story line that gets better and better as you turn each page! It was interesting and captivating from the start. This book is one that you wish you had the entire day to read. The character development was well thought out and consistent throughout the book. There are surprising twists and turns with character interactions that keeps the reader engaged. The author's talent painted vivid descriptions sweeping me into this world. Each time I set the book aside, it called me back in a haunting way to continue reading.

I would love to see it as a movie. This is the first book I've read by this author, and I really want to read all the books published by this author. This is a riveting read that has kept me enthralled over the five days it has taken me to read it. I had vivid pictures throughout...almost like watching as events unfolded..I felt I was present. A well-written, excellent read, which I couldn't put down.
77 reviews4 followers
July 4, 2022
This is a wonderful book that you don't t want to put down. Without a doubt this is the most exciting book I've read this month. It drew me in immediately and held my interest clear to the satisfying and exciting plot. The writing is getting better in terms of development of the storyline. I loved this book! I really love the way Jafe writes. This author has a gift for weaving pictures with words and making sure the reader is right there in the story with the characters. The atmosphere is sinister from the very beginning and the tension keeps building until the end. This is a fantastic book. The author is so good with his writing skills - this book is fabulously-written, with an absolutely compelling storyline.

The writing style is very engaging because the author is elaborate and vivid in his descriptions. The author is extremely honest and powerful about his words. You can feel it all happening in front of your eyes and it really does.

This is a straightforward book, pleasantly clever at times, with compelling characterizations, and scenes. An entertaining and thought-provoking read. I really enjoyed this book. I would happily read more from this author.

This a wonderful story so well written that while reading it I completely got lost in it . I highly recommend this to everyone and just wish I could find the right words to tell how powerful it is. I think everyone will like this as much as I did.
Profile Image for Nancy Timmerman.
177 reviews32 followers
October 20, 2022
A certifiable wow! “Leaving Phoenix” will paralyze you as the story unravels. It's an engrossing thriller that will get your heart-pounding; gripping the pages until your eyes can no longer focus. You will be taken on a road trip with twists and turns along the way, as a baffling mystery leads you to California's sunshine.

Phoebe has a wonderful life with her adoptive father, she endearingly calls 'Pop-Pop.' She often wonders about her biological parents and where she came. When a strange letter arrives that might solve the missing piece for her, she decides to take a road trip in hopes of finding answers.

Jafe Danbury is a new-to-me author. I was completely captivated reading, “Leaving Phoenix!” Jafe is an excellent writer; giving readers great details and character's. He delivers an excellent story, with a little reminder of what family means. So, thriller seekers, grab this book for your next adventure! I guarantee; it's a roller-coaster of a journey!

~This book was given to me through a giveaway in exchange for a fair and honest review.~
Profile Image for C.A. Powers.
Author 2 books73 followers
January 26, 2023
Wow! What a phenomenal book! I don't have many "favorite books" but this one has been added to my very short list! I had such a hard time putting it down, but I did have to sleep and interact with my family, lol.

The story itself was incredible. The early beginning was a bit rough to get through as it is sensitive material but once you do it opens up to an extraordinary story.
The strength Phoenix had after learning about her early childhood was remarkable. There was some funny moments in this book, like the dog's name, which I won't say, don't want to give it away. The music playlists were perfect for the road trip.
Curt was a favorite character in this story. I absolutely loved how he treated Phoenix. His compassion, kindness, and loving actions throughout made it easy to like him.

I did not want this book to end but felt content with how Jafe ended the story.

I can not wait for his next book!
I actually think this should be made into a movie.

Make sure you grab a copy of this book!
Profile Image for Behind The Bookshelf .
222 reviews27 followers
January 30, 2023
Danbury was at the top of his game with this potboiler.
As a first read by this Author I wasn’t sure what to expect but I’m ecstatic to say that Leaving Phoenix went above and beyond my expectations.
This Authors writing talent lies in detail and he does it impeccably well.
I was captivated by the visuals of every scene, character, and event leaving me immersed in the story like I was actually living it.
Phoebe, the main character emerges with trials and flaws that make her human and relatable. I loved her! Alternating from past to present, Danbury demonstrates excellent tense control.
It all flowed and tied in so well.
It’s a suspenseful thriller that keeps your curiosity peaked, your heart invested and hand turning the page.
I’m now a huge fan of Jafe Danbury.
Highly recommend!
Profile Image for Kathy Morris.
1 review3 followers
March 14, 2022
Another great book by the Jafe!!

The plot was riveting. I did not know about saline abortions. As a pro life advocate, this information really made me cringe even more so about abortion.
The authenticity of the songs from the 70’s made me smile. I also was fascinated by all the details regarding sanitation cleanup. Who would have ever thought that this would be included in a novel. Had to smile big at the creativity!!
Profile Image for Charlotte Dawson.
13 reviews1 follower
May 15, 2022
A crime thriller, yes, but also psychological and very deep. A girl who led a normal life had to face danger only because of her curiosity to find her origins. In a way, we might think why would she do it, but them...well, it is human to want to know where are you coming from. I liked the author's writing and the character development. I will check for more books from him. Rating - 5, well deserved, stars.
411 reviews15 followers
May 18, 2022
This was the first book I read by this author, but it won’t be the last! It was a exhilarating thriller with heartfelt characters. The writing was wonderful. The basic premise is that Phoebe (main Character) was adopted at age 5. In her twenties she begins to receive letters alluding to information about her past, so she sets out to find out about her family. The descriptions of the scenery was beautiful and I loved the music references
Profile Image for Lisa.
391 reviews66 followers
August 29, 2022
Awesome story! This is a new to me author and I thoroughly enjoyed the story he told Set mostly in the early 2000s and with a great set list of classic rock music,the story hit all the right notes Phoebe/Phoenix always knew she was adopted but had no idea of the circumstances surrounding it until a cryptic letter from a long lost relative sends her on a deep dive into her own past Loved everything about this book! Told with a lot of heart and great characters
Profile Image for Amanda.
73 reviews
October 23, 2023
It was good…

The beginning and ending were great. The middle slowed a little and I almost put it down. The road trip part was a little drawn out for me. I’m glad I finished it. I started on the second book before I realized it was a series. More things are clicking into place having finished the first book. I plan on reading the second book. Would definitely recommend to others.
Profile Image for Eli Hamilton.
15 reviews1 follower
May 15, 2022
LEAVING PHOENIX by Jafe Danbury was an incredible novel. He has a compelling writing style, detailed and spot on, keeping on edge or chilled - all in the right moment. I felt like I was with Phoebe during her journey, I loved how she grew and coped with the secrets of the family. A novel you should experience! Recommended.
4 reviews
June 14, 2022
This book has it all. Thrills, suspense, murder and a bit of romance thrown in. Utterly engaging and memorable characters and great forward moving plot development make this a must read. It certainly took my mind off of my troubles as I read this great story. Thank you, Mr. Danbury, for a job well done! I will definitely read your other book and recommend Leaving Phoenix to friends.
Profile Image for Alisha Nolan.
25 reviews3 followers
April 6, 2022
Great read

I enjoyed this book so much. Phoenix is a great character that I enjoyed watching develop over the story and grow so much. The plot was very attention grabbing and you won't want to put it down once you start reading.
286 reviews6 followers
September 2, 2022
An engaging and immersive read that hits all the right notes.  Believable characters,  murder, a roller-coaster of emotion and a great soundtrack woven into a wonderfully written story made this book hard to put down.
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