The Groom Went Missing

Agent Victoria Heslin #5

by Jenifer Ruff

Secrets, suspects, and subtle clues will pull you in and keep you guessing until the end.

Agent Victoria attends a lavish wedding as a guest of the best man. Everything is perfect and in place …except the groom.
Family and friends aren’t sure if they should be angry or deeply concerned, until mounting evidence suggests the groom panicked and fled. But the bride and the best man don’t believe it. They convince Victoria to find the missing groom and uncover the truth.

Investigations reveal people’s dirty secrets, and the guests at this wedding have many. But even Victoria doesn’t anticipate the disturbing reality she unearths, and the life and death situations she’ll face because of it.

The Groom Went Missing is book five in the award-winning Victoria Heslin Series and can also be read as a standalone novel with no confusion. Contemporary mystery fans of James Patterson, Megan Miranda, and Lucey Foley will be hooked.

Genres: Mystery, Mystery Thriller, Audiobook, Thriller, Fiction, Suspense

290 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 2, 2022

About the author

USA Today bestselling author Jenifer Ruff writes dark and twisty mystery thrillers, including the award-winning Agent Victoria Heslin Series. Jenifer spends her days writing with the goal of keeping her readers eagerly turning the pages and putting the clues together. She adores peace and quiet, animals, and exercise, especially hiking. If she’s not writing, she’s probably out exploring trails with her dogs. Sign up for her Reader's Newsletter at Jenruff.com and never miss a new release.

Reviews

[Stefanie Lozinski · Rating 5 out of 5]

Favourite of the series so far, which is impressive to me considering my beloved Dante Rivera was barely in this instalment! I am so psyched for the next one.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Positively riveting!

Jenifer Ruff is known for skillfully weaving achingly suspenseful stories that provide bone-chilling thrills as exceedingly realistic and very likeable characters are thrown into the most dire of circumstances. I have enjoyed each of the Victoria Heslin books in this series and with each book read I declare it as my new favorite. Unsurprisingly, I was drawn into this story immediately and it kept me glued to the pages right up until the very end. Victoria and her boyfriend, Ned, take a few days off to attend a wedding in which Ned will be serving as best man. When the groom mysteriously disappears immediately before the rehearsal and remains missing for the wedding, most people suspect a serious case of “cold feet”. The bride and Ned, however, cannot believe that is the case and they enlist Victoria’s investigative expertise to solve the mystery of the missing groom. What follows is a twisted and captivating tale that has more zigs and zags than a roller coaster. The story can absolutely be enjoyed as a standalone but I would recommend reading all the books in this series because each is a finely crafted tale of intrigue sure to enthrall any armchair thrill-seeker. Personally, I especially love Victoria’s devotion to her animals and I believe that facet of her character makes her all the more genuinely captivating and relatable. While I feel Victoria has been put through the wringer (both emotionally and physically) in this series, I still hold much hope that the author will dream up more adventures for her as she is such a fabulous character to follow. Fingers crossed.

I was provided with an advance copy of this book, for which I thank the author, and I am voluntarily sharing my honest and unbiased review.

[Billie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a brilliant read.
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believable.
Great suspense and found myself second guessing every thought I had continuously.
Can't wait to read what the author brings out next.
Recommend reading.

I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review

[Reita Pendry · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a nightmare scenario! Young people very much in love, or so it seems. Families and friends gathered for the wedding of the beautiful bride and handsome doctor groom. And then the unthinkable – the groom doesn’t appear for the rehearsal dinner and is MIA. Did he walk away, in a major case of pre-wedding nerves? Or did something worse happen to keep him from the dinner and marrying the woman he professes to love? Ruff’s story will keep you wondering as the bride and her family flounder about and as the FBI agent Victoria Heslin and her partner try to figure out whether the groom is hostage to forces he can’t escape. A truly satisfying read.

Reita Pendry, author of the Mercy Johnson and Cassandra Robbins series.

[Raquel · Rating 2 out of 5]

I’m amazed at the amount of starts this book has. To me it was not even interesting. Didn’t care about the characters. It was slow and boring. I’m seriously in shock by all of the ⭐️ ratings.

[Julie Howard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh wow!!! Another thrilling adventure that will have you staying up well past your bedtime. The story is broken up into three parts. The first part is mostly told the by the main character, Victoria and focuses on the wedding. Part two then goes back a few days and explains what became of the groom, with mostly his point of view. Finally, part three is were Victoria does her thing as an FBI agent. I really liked it set out this way because you didn't really know what or who was behind everything until the author was ready, making you reluctant to put the book down before you know what happened. This is part of a series featuring Victoria Heslin and this book is written so it can be read as a standalone but to be honest once you have read one book in this series you won't want to miss the rest. Victoria is a great main character but the author also makes you care about what happens to all the characters and at times my heart was in my mouth, wondering if there would be a happy ending. The authors love for animals is also present in the story but it is actually the drama of the wedding and the consequence that it sparked, that had me up late.
When Ned is asked to stand up as best man for his best friend he thought the hardest part would be the plane ride (After his and his girl friends ordeal on the last ride) and giving the speech but he wasn't prepared for the groom not showing up. Victoria had never met the bride and groom before and like everybody else thought it was cold feet but at the insistence of both her boyfriend and the bride she reluctantly starts to look for him. The more she uncovers and uses her FBI contacts the more she starts to think maybe there is more to his disappearance than first meets the eye. Can she find the missing groom or what happened to him?
I was given this free review copy book at my request and have voluntarily left this review.

[Nikki Houghton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Victoria Heslin is actually growing on me.
She’s still annoying but at least she’s decided on a man and this time the case has nothing to do with her, nor her family, nor her getting stuck in a plane crash but calls upon her objective sleuthing side - but only 4 stars because we never get to know why Jules did what she did or what became of Richard Luna (tic) and I hate loose ends. Never mind, glad the handsome vet is sticking around for all those animals; Ned seems ok if slightly dopey; it’s always stupid to fall for the boss (and a Special Agent at that). Good reading fun though.

[Jeanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Agent Victoria Heslin is back in Jenifer Ruff’s latest thriller, The Groom Went Missing. Invited to a wedding where Ned is the best man, Victoria will be asked to help find Scott, the groom, who is a no show at the rehearsal. Unfortunately for Scott’s family, her search will open a can of worms which will put many lives in jeopardy. As the investigation goes into overdrive, family secrets will be revealed. I love the characters in this novel, as with every Victoria Heslin thriller. The storyline is great, the suspense is edge-of-your-seat, and the descriptions bring everything to life. Ruff has done it again with this fantastic page-turner. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Heather L Keyser · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC copy of this book and this is my honest review. The next book in Jenifer Ruff’s Agent Victoria Heslin series, The Groom Went Missing, is intriguing from the start. Victoria and her friend, Ned are in Boston for his best friend’s wedding but the book starts with a shooting in an old warehouse. We are also introduced to a local detective. When the groom doesn’t show up for the wedding, the stories begin to weave together. As usual, the details allow you to picture everything vividly. As always, once I start reading a Jenifer Ruff book, I can’t stop till I’m done. So make sure you don’t have any plans when you start reading this book.

[Alex Uzdavinis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can’t get enough of this series!

[Marie Wikle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series gets better with each book!

[Rachel Gonzalez · Rating 4 out of 5]

all the series keeps you intrigued

[Alesebrockmann · Rating 5 out of 5]

FBI agent, Victoria Heslin attends a wedding along with her boyfriend Ned when the unthinkable happens. The groom, a trusted doctor and best friend of Ned, disappears without a trace before he can even walk down the aisle! Why would Scott disappear without an explanation, even to his fiancée?? And does this disappearance have anything to do with renowned Salazar cartel? Ruff takes us on an intriguing and suspenseful ride where family loyalties are tested and things are not always what they seem. This book is phenomenal. It is fast paced and intelligently written. I was engrossed in the storyline from start to finish. I'm a huge fan of the Victoria Heslin series and this one did not disappoint!! I received an ARC copy of the book and this is my honest review.

[Robin Mattei · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent series

As with all the others loved this book and storyline and looking forward to the next. Great characters, though I have to admit I have always been team Rivera and not only is that seem done as I never say never, but he was in book so little and so late I wondered if at all

[Phyllis Jones Pisanelli Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jenifer Ruff hit it out of the ball park with a grand slam home run with The Groom Went Missing. This has to be the best book I’ve read by her yet. Don’t get me wrong, I love her books but, this one is the best one so far.

I haven’t communicated with the author so, I am not sure what brought about this change in her work. This book is on a whole new level. I love how she tells different sides of the story in the different parts. There are three parts to this book. You have to shift gears a little bit when you leave each part. The change of gears is smooth and although I felt a little resistance on my part when we entered into the new parts, I soon was right back into the story. I was totally invested in this book. I couldn’t wait to find out what was happening next and what happened to the groom. Is he ok? Where is he? This book was unputdownable. I devoured it.

Some of the characters were the same. Victoria and Ned returned. I love how they have blended her love for rescuing animals and his veterinary skills to better the lives of homeless and injured animals. Their love for each other shines through. I liked some of the other characters in the book and like any good book there were a few I did not like. Her character development in this story is perfect. You feel like you’ve met these people somewhere berfore. They are not predictible but, they have a familiar feeling to them.

“The Groom Went Missing” An Agent Victoria Heslin Thriller Book Five is of course book five in the series and can be written as a stand alone. You don’t need to read them in order. I have read the last three out of the five. I do have the first two and have promised myself that I will go back and read book one and two. I want to assure you that you will not feel lost if you start with The Groom Went Missing. I know you will be jumping into the rabbit hole and will have to go back and read the first four. Number Six is Vanished on Vacation and is slated to be released in October. I can’t wait to see what Jenifer Ruff brings us next. The title sounds intriguing!

[Lori Pappert · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 5th Victoria Heslin book and I have read and loved every one of them. Ruff's character development a rich and slow burn. It keeps me waiting for the next book. I like Victoria more and more each time. She is so human and I feel like if she were a real person we would be friends. That is, if she had time for friends. Between solving crimes, her greyhounds, her foundation, and love life she is super busy. As promised by Jenifer Ruff this could be a stand alone book for anyone who wants to read a captivating mystery. However, I recommend reading a the V. Heslin books they are well worth it!!!!

[Lovell Grant · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've read everything by Jenifer but the Heslin thrillers are my favourite. This one was no different. It had so much suspense, that I was tempted to skip ahead and find out. Loved it.

[Laurie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Greyt Publishing audiobook.

Pros: Interesting plot; I felt the pacing was fine; the audiobook had two narrators, one woman and one man, which made for better voicing in the story.

Cons: I found this book, very annoying for several reasons. (Full disclosure: I get annoyed more quickly and easily than most people.) First, the audiobook was set up like a radio play, so when the story had gunshots or a doorbell or fire engines, the listener actually heard simulated gunshots and ding-dong and fire engines—I found it amateurish and corny; Second, Victoria’s dogged refusal to admit the possibility that anything negative could have happened to the groom felt fake; third, the male narrator wasn’t a particularly good actor, and his voice tended to get quieter at the end of his sentences, so I kept having to turn up the volume and replay what I missed. (The female narrator was better, in my opinion, but she mispronounced both “solace” and “reminiscing.” This is not acceptable!)

[Carol Hatch · Rating 4 out of 5]

Actually, four and 1/2 stars

This is a well-written book with twists and turns I didn’t see coming. I thought I had it figured out early on when the author dropped what I considered a pretty big hint. Turned out that it was a hint, but what followed was far more interesting and complicated and took me by surprise.

The reason I held back on the half star is due to my thinking that the character development, while certainly well above par, could have been better. Having said that, the fact that I had a bit of difficulty sorting the characters along the way could have been my fault, not hers.

Regardless, this is a very good read and I highly recommend The Groom Went Missing.

[Louise Pledge · Rating 5 out of 5]

Like so many books I read, I saw this one advertised on FB. It looked so appealing that I wrote and asked if there were any sex or objectionable language. When I was assured that there wasn't, I downloaded it right away. As I read throughout of a previous plane crash which the heroine, Victoria had survived, I knew I really wanted to read that book, so I have also downloaded #3 to read.

I do wish there were a rating system based on more stars (like maybe 10), as I think the highest number possible should be saved for only the most exceptionable of stories. Therefore, I am actually giving this one 4.5 stars and rounding it off to 5, partly because I appreciate the clean book.

[Meghan · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s all in the family

Victoria is starting to feel like a trouble magnet and this story doesn’t help change that feeling. She and Ned are at a wedding and the groom is a no show. While they delve into her view of trust and relationships a bit in the story, the search to find the groom quickly unravels a lot of crime and violence with the cartel. Victoria is injured in the quest to help out the innocent and solve the crime, but not as horrifically as the plane crash. The relationship with Ned and with Rivera is visited so we know the state of affairs. Great ending and one that had a very sweet moment!

[Jeff Bradford · Rating 5 out of 5]

Making my way in this 9 book series. This number 4 of the Victoria Heslin series a badass FBI agent with amazing detective skills. The groom is an ER Doctor that disappears on his way to the rehearsal of his wedding without a trace. Did he get cold feet, was he in an accident, or did something bad happen to him. You gotta read this to find out.
I am really enjoying reading this author. She starts her stories off exciting and draws you in making it difficult to put down. I especially like that she doesn't use foul language in her writing which never adds to the story IMO.
I recommend this book/series to all who want a fast and satifying read!

[I’m reading · Rating 1 out of 5]

This is the 5th book in the series and the FMC is still just as insufferable and annoying.

Her boyfriend’s best friend goes missing on the day of his wedding and of course she puts forth her opinion and must trump her boyfriends - even though she has never even met him.

During an attempt to get intimate, of course her thoughts and feelings about a wedding that didn’t take place- never mind this is the first time she met the potential bride and has never met the groom.

She is so self important and ridiculous.

The only reason I keep reading this series is to see what happens to the two men- the agent and the vet.

I’m hoping that neither one gets stuck with her

[Deborah J. Cornwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am new to Jenifer Ruff’s books and enjoyed this one. I was really proud of myself for putting the two inciting instances into a plausible frame midway through the book. However, there were unexpected events that continued to push me towards the resolution. I liked Victoria as a person and the little nuggets about her good deeds made the character more human. After finishing this, I am starting with the first book in the series.

[Angela Shively · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm just getting into reading and saw one of your books advertised on FB. I thought that looks like a good read and then realized it was book 6 of the series. I couldn't just start with that one, so I started at the 1st book and I was hooked!

Just like the other books, when you think you have it figured out, another twist to the plot. Looking forward to read the next book... The one that caught my eye to begin with.

[Nancy Stover · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this as an ARC and give my honest review. I love Jennifer's books! The Groom Went Missing is action packed!
Although I did figure out why Scott was missing right away it was still a great read. I did find a typo....the book said emergency kid instead of kit. Still very much worth reading.

[Don · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great story from Jennifer Ruff! She has a wonderful way of putting it together keeping one interested and intrigued, wanting to turn those pages finding out what happens next. She lets you hang until about 35% into it before you get some gist of what possibly happened, loved it. Highly recommend the book. 5

[Diane E]

Great story

While Agent Victoria Heslin was on an extended weekend to attend a wedding,, the groom did go missing. Noone wanted the police involved except the bride. Victoria simply asked a few questions and they were . Bigger than expected .
Well written

[John · Rating 4 out of 5]

Missing wedding cake too

Very relatable backdrop for this mystery allows the reader to feel part of the wedding party. The main character is believable in wanting to first save the wedding party. Eventually the reader understands the web of deceit and cheers on the main character to save the day. Very enjoyable read for me and recommended to you.

[Marianne Lopapa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book Review:

This was a very intense fast paced mystery book ....It had interesting character's and a good storyline .....It was solved with the help of a great FBI agent and all ended well ...This was my first read by this author ....Looking forward to reading more ...Thanks for the fast enjoyable book ....M.L.😊