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Whereabouts Unknown
Theodora Madsen has everything she’s ever hoped for: a distinguished career as a homicide detective with the Dayton Police Department, a woman she loves, and a baby on the way.
While Theo and Bree nest and plan for their family’s future, two sixteen-year-old Ohio girls vanish—one from Dayton and the other from Brecksville—each leaving behind a bloody handprint. Then a routine interview goes disastrously wrong, and Theo’s injured and facing a lengthy recovery.
With her professional future uncertain and the cases growing cold, Theo scrambles to piece together the links between the girls. But the clock is ticking and time is running out.
While Theo and Bree nest and plan for their family’s future, two sixteen-year-old Ohio girls vanish—one from Dayton and the other from Brecksville—each leaving behind a bloody handprint. Then a routine interview goes disastrously wrong, and Theo’s injured and facing a lengthy recovery.
With her professional future uncertain and the cases growing cold, Theo scrambles to piece together the links between the girls. But the clock is ticking and time is running out.
288 pages, Paperback
First published March 1, 2022
15 people are currently reading
320 people want to read
About the author
Meredith Doench
7 books64 followersMeredith Doench is the author of the Luce Hansen LGBTQ Thriller series. These crime novels follow the work of Special Agent Luce Hansen of the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation who specializes in tracking serial killers. Crossed, the first in the series, won Silver in the 2015 IndieFab Awards in the mystery genre. In 2017, Crossed was awarded the Mary Dasher Award for fiction from the College English Association of Ohio. The second novel, Forsaken Trust, was published in 2017 followed by Deadeye in 2019. All were mystery/thriller Goldie Award finalists in their respective years from Golden Crown Literary Society. Whereabouts Unknown, Doench’s fourth thriller and stand-alone novel, was published in 2022.
Doench’s works of short fiction and nonfiction have appeared in literary journals such as Hayden’s Ferry Review, Women’s Studies Quarterly, and The Tahoma Literary Review. She was one of the founding associate prose editors of the literary journal Camera Obscura: Journal of Literature and Photography and currently serves on the board of Mystery Writers of America, Midwest Chapter. She is a senior lecturer of creative writing, literature, and composition at the University of Dayton in Ohio.
Learn more about Meredith at www.meredithdoench.com
Doench’s works of short fiction and nonfiction have appeared in literary journals such as Hayden’s Ferry Review, Women’s Studies Quarterly, and The Tahoma Literary Review. She was one of the founding associate prose editors of the literary journal Camera Obscura: Journal of Literature and Photography and currently serves on the board of Mystery Writers of America, Midwest Chapter. She is a senior lecturer of creative writing, literature, and composition at the University of Dayton in Ohio.
Learn more about Meredith at www.meredithdoench.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
February 16, 2022
'ARC provided by both NetGalley and The Publisher (Bold Strokes Books) in exchange for an unbiased review'
**'Never be afraid to tell a story that might make you feel uncertain or doubt yourself..Always remember that writing is a craft...'
Okay read!
'WHEREABOUTS UNKNOWN' is a mystery & suspense within a mystery & suspense. Then ever so often Ms.Doench throws in a few dark, disturbing changeups when telling the plotline -- it focuses more on the investigation and kidnapping while wavering a bit on the relationship between Theo & Bree. Readers do see that Theo is struggling to navigate the journey from being a hysterical, injured detective to becoming a first-time parent with Bree.
The storytelling weaves an intricate tale of deeply affecting acts performed towards the kidnapped victims and is also entwined with lots of lies, secrets and family/friend betrayal.
I must confess that I initially thought Ms.Doench had possibly painted herself into a corner with the storyline's intriguing element, but then an ultimate explanation of who were doing what to whom culminated into a devastation of tragedies and ingenious.
The cases do converge and their connections led to one or more suspects which was solved by Detective Theo with the help of Officer Cody. All is resolved by the close or conclusion of the story -- with minor character development and an array of supporting cast that were involved with the entire plotline.
Despite the average pacing and Ms.Doench trying to push her premise to the extreme, 'WHEREABOUTS UNKNOWN' do deserve to be read and enjoy by interested readers.
**'Never be afraid to tell a story that might make you feel uncertain or doubt yourself..Always remember that writing is a craft...'
Okay read!
'WHEREABOUTS UNKNOWN' is a mystery & suspense within a mystery & suspense. Then ever so often Ms.Doench throws in a few dark, disturbing changeups when telling the plotline -- it focuses more on the investigation and kidnapping while wavering a bit on the relationship between Theo & Bree. Readers do see that Theo is struggling to navigate the journey from being a hysterical, injured detective to becoming a first-time parent with Bree.
The storytelling weaves an intricate tale of deeply affecting acts performed towards the kidnapped victims and is also entwined with lots of lies, secrets and family/friend betrayal.
I must confess that I initially thought Ms.Doench had possibly painted herself into a corner with the storyline's intriguing element, but then an ultimate explanation of who were doing what to whom culminated into a devastation of tragedies and ingenious.
The cases do converge and their connections led to one or more suspects which was solved by Detective Theo with the help of Officer Cody. All is resolved by the close or conclusion of the story -- with minor character development and an array of supporting cast that were involved with the entire plotline.
Despite the average pacing and Ms.Doench trying to push her premise to the extreme, 'WHEREABOUTS UNKNOWN' do deserve to be read and enjoy by interested readers.
February 20, 2022
Two sixteen year old girls vanish, two hundred miles apart with their high school ID’s and cell phones left beside their bloody hand print. The question haunting Detective Theo (Theodora) Madsen is if these girls ran away on their own or were taken.
Doench has honed her craft to perfection. The main characters are quickly and efficiently fleshed out with qualities which beg for our empathy. The mystery is partially solved early on with the bulk of the story detailing the how and why of what occurred. The ending effectively fills in all the loose ends while giving us a suspenseful conclusion. There is not much more you can ask for in this well written mystery.
The plot is very current with what is happening in the United States these days. It masterfully plays on the small fears of its citizens all the while pulling at the heart strings of every parent.
The personal life of Theo provides a subtle diametric viewpoint to what is happening to the missing girls. Theo provides us with a connection to the frailty of the human body and with support and love its resiliency.
This is a new author to me and I am ecstatic to have found her. You really need to read this novel!
I received an advance review copy from Bold Stroke Books and NetGalley. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Doench has honed her craft to perfection. The main characters are quickly and efficiently fleshed out with qualities which beg for our empathy. The mystery is partially solved early on with the bulk of the story detailing the how and why of what occurred. The ending effectively fills in all the loose ends while giving us a suspenseful conclusion. There is not much more you can ask for in this well written mystery.
The plot is very current with what is happening in the United States these days. It masterfully plays on the small fears of its citizens all the while pulling at the heart strings of every parent.
The personal life of Theo provides a subtle diametric viewpoint to what is happening to the missing girls. Theo provides us with a connection to the frailty of the human body and with support and love its resiliency.
This is a new author to me and I am ecstatic to have found her. You really need to read this novel!
I received an advance review copy from Bold Stroke Books and NetGalley. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 7, 2022
3.5 stars. I picked this up fully expecting it was a crime investigation, but it turned out a lot more was going on. I find this book hard to rate, I liked the writing and I enjoyed the separate storylines, but as a whole I think the author wanted too much with all the parallel storylines, it seemed to miss focus.
The story begins with a bang, a girl locked up in a container under unbearable circumstances. It immediately intrigues and gives the reader the right sense of urgency.
There several storylines from two POVs (third person). The crime storyline is from the POV of detective Theodora (Theo) Madsen who’s investigating two missing girl cases. However, Theo also gets wounded on the job, leaving her struggling with both physical and mental trauma, and if that’s not enough she also has a baby on the way with her partner Bree, which is something she also struggles with emotionally.
Then there is the second POV of Annabelle (one of the missing girls). Her storyline is in the present, but we also get her history in flashbacks.
Obviously, a lot is going on by constantly jumping between storylines and because of that the crime storyline was relatively light and it was the missing major plot twists and surprises that I look for in a crime investigation. Also, the flashbacks of Annabelle take a lot of the mystery away, but I did find her story interesting, it’s just the combination that didn’t seem to fully work for me.
I liked Theo a lot in her detective persona, she doesn’t let go of the case even though her injury affects her work, she adjusts and heals, and keeps going for better or worse. I didn’t like her so much as a loving partner though. Theo is described as dependable and a protector, but honestly, her actions show the opposite. And of course, she goes through a difficult time which can change a person, but I had the feeling that even before her personal struggles she was not fully into the relationship or the baby. Bree, her partner, seemed pretty amazing, but I’m not convinced of their HEA. I think I would have liked this book better without the romance/baby arc.
In summary, there were parts I really liked, but it didn’t fully come together for me. That said, I think it’s an entertaining read if you enjoy mystery books.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The story begins with a bang, a girl locked up in a container under unbearable circumstances. It immediately intrigues and gives the reader the right sense of urgency.
There several storylines from two POVs (third person). The crime storyline is from the POV of detective Theodora (Theo) Madsen who’s investigating two missing girl cases. However, Theo also gets wounded on the job, leaving her struggling with both physical and mental trauma, and if that’s not enough she also has a baby on the way with her partner Bree, which is something she also struggles with emotionally.
Then there is the second POV of Annabelle (one of the missing girls). Her storyline is in the present, but we also get her history in flashbacks.
Obviously, a lot is going on by constantly jumping between storylines and because of that the crime storyline was relatively light and it was the missing major plot twists and surprises that I look for in a crime investigation. Also, the flashbacks of Annabelle take a lot of the mystery away, but I did find her story interesting, it’s just the combination that didn’t seem to fully work for me.
I liked Theo a lot in her detective persona, she doesn’t let go of the case even though her injury affects her work, she adjusts and heals, and keeps going for better or worse. I didn’t like her so much as a loving partner though. Theo is described as dependable and a protector, but honestly, her actions show the opposite. And of course, she goes through a difficult time which can change a person, but I had the feeling that even before her personal struggles she was not fully into the relationship or the baby. Bree, her partner, seemed pretty amazing, but I’m not convinced of their HEA. I think I would have liked this book better without the romance/baby arc.
In summary, there were parts I really liked, but it didn’t fully come together for me. That said, I think it’s an entertaining read if you enjoy mystery books.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 14, 2022
Featured presentation: Whereabouts Unknown by Meredith Doench
One injured detective. Two missing girls. Time is running out…
Cast: Detective Theodora (Theo) Madsen is seemingly in a good place: her career is going splendidly, she has a loving partner and a baby on the way. Her years as a police detective have honed her skills and she has learned to trust her intuition when it comes to her work. Things are more difficult on the home front where Theo begins to question her abilities as a parent-to-be.
One of the missing girls is the second main character, but the less said, the better…
The Plot: Theo is chosen to mentor the homicide squad’s newbie, Cody Michaels, when her regular partner is off for a day. They follow up on new information left by an anonymous caller and an interview that initially provide no information on their case gets blown to shreds, quite literally. Now Theo has to fight to get fit enough for active duty and a neighbouring police department contacts them to compare notes on a similar disappearance.
The blazing: The POV alternates between Theo and one of the missing girls. This provides us with information as yet unknown to the police, which makes the case more chilling. Furthermore, while Theo’s POV is strictly chronological, the victim’s is irregular and bounces between the present and memories.
Theo is shown as almost fearless when it comes to her work, but her personal fears forms a contrast that nearly everyone can relate to. One of these fears is whether she’ll be able to be a good parent. Not only is this handled excellently, but Ms Doench also touches lesbian parental roles.
Ms Doench does not shy away from grisly details! However, at no point does she rely on bloody horror to carry the story – it’s merely a side-effect of events. This is true for violence inflicted upon others as well as Theo and the missing girl’s struggles against their bodies’ weaknesses.
The bright: There is the constant contrast between new life and death. It is never explicitly mentioned, but one cannot help but to draw the conclusion.
The bleak: The only downside to Whereabouts Unknown was that it had to end…
The burned-to-ashes: Not a thing!
And then The Plot Thickens, but more so, it sickens to exactly where you want a suspense thriller to be. Ms Doench delivers a gripping tale from the prologue onwards. It is fast-paced and to the point, yet detailed. This is less of a “whodunit?” and the focus shifts to the “why?” and “how?”. I went in prepared for a dark tale and Ms Doench surprised me in the most unpleasantly pleasant way!!!
Trigger warning: Mention of self-harm.
Studio: Bold Stokes Books
Closing credits: I willingly leave this review based on an eARC copy graciously granted to me by Bold Stokes Books and NetGalley.
One injured detective. Two missing girls. Time is running out…
Cast: Detective Theodora (Theo) Madsen is seemingly in a good place: her career is going splendidly, she has a loving partner and a baby on the way. Her years as a police detective have honed her skills and she has learned to trust her intuition when it comes to her work. Things are more difficult on the home front where Theo begins to question her abilities as a parent-to-be.
One of the missing girls is the second main character, but the less said, the better…
The Plot: Theo is chosen to mentor the homicide squad’s newbie, Cody Michaels, when her regular partner is off for a day. They follow up on new information left by an anonymous caller and an interview that initially provide no information on their case gets blown to shreds, quite literally. Now Theo has to fight to get fit enough for active duty and a neighbouring police department contacts them to compare notes on a similar disappearance.
The blazing: The POV alternates between Theo and one of the missing girls. This provides us with information as yet unknown to the police, which makes the case more chilling. Furthermore, while Theo’s POV is strictly chronological, the victim’s is irregular and bounces between the present and memories.
Theo is shown as almost fearless when it comes to her work, but her personal fears forms a contrast that nearly everyone can relate to. One of these fears is whether she’ll be able to be a good parent. Not only is this handled excellently, but Ms Doench also touches lesbian parental roles.
Ms Doench does not shy away from grisly details! However, at no point does she rely on bloody horror to carry the story – it’s merely a side-effect of events. This is true for violence inflicted upon others as well as Theo and the missing girl’s struggles against their bodies’ weaknesses.
The bright: There is the constant contrast between new life and death. It is never explicitly mentioned, but one cannot help but to draw the conclusion.
The bleak: The only downside to Whereabouts Unknown was that it had to end…
The burned-to-ashes: Not a thing!
And then The Plot Thickens, but more so, it sickens to exactly where you want a suspense thriller to be. Ms Doench delivers a gripping tale from the prologue onwards. It is fast-paced and to the point, yet detailed. This is less of a “whodunit?” and the focus shifts to the “why?” and “how?”. I went in prepared for a dark tale and Ms Doench surprised me in the most unpleasantly pleasant way!!!
Trigger warning: Mention of self-harm.
Studio: Bold Stokes Books
Closing credits: I willingly leave this review based on an eARC copy graciously granted to me by Bold Stokes Books and NetGalley.
February 21, 2022
From the opening powerful prologue I knew I was going to enjoy Whereabouts Unknown.
You know Annabelle is trapped with someone inside what sounds like a metal container. How did she end up here and why is she chained to the wall?
Homicide detective Theodora (Theo) Madsen is injured while investigating a case involving a missing teen assumed to be a runaway. Assigned to desk duty during recovery, Theo questions her future as a detective and wonders if she will be a good parent to her partner Bree’s unborn child. When another teen disappears leaving a bloody handprint behind, Theo suspects these cases are linked even though their locations are miles apart.
I enjoyed this dual pov police procedural and was impressed with Doench’s descriptive, easy to visualize scenes. The author grabs your attention and ramps up the fear factor with Annabelle’s storyline. There are no “then” or “now” headings on chapters so the reader is kept guessing (and wondering) if Theo will solve this complex case in time to save Annabelle and the other missing girl. It adds tension to a case with few clues and fewer honest witnesses. Theo, in her fifties, has challenges of her own coping with her injuries and doubts regarding her future as a cop and a mother. A damaged and distracted detective complicates this thriller.
My hope is we will see more of Theo and her rookie sidekick Cody in future books. He has lots to learn from this seasoned homicide detective. Well done.
A copy of this book was given to me by Bold Strokes Books via NetGalley for review.
You know Annabelle is trapped with someone inside what sounds like a metal container. How did she end up here and why is she chained to the wall?
Homicide detective Theodora (Theo) Madsen is injured while investigating a case involving a missing teen assumed to be a runaway. Assigned to desk duty during recovery, Theo questions her future as a detective and wonders if she will be a good parent to her partner Bree’s unborn child. When another teen disappears leaving a bloody handprint behind, Theo suspects these cases are linked even though their locations are miles apart.
I enjoyed this dual pov police procedural and was impressed with Doench’s descriptive, easy to visualize scenes. The author grabs your attention and ramps up the fear factor with Annabelle’s storyline. There are no “then” or “now” headings on chapters so the reader is kept guessing (and wondering) if Theo will solve this complex case in time to save Annabelle and the other missing girl. It adds tension to a case with few clues and fewer honest witnesses. Theo, in her fifties, has challenges of her own coping with her injuries and doubts regarding her future as a cop and a mother. A damaged and distracted detective complicates this thriller.
My hope is we will see more of Theo and her rookie sidekick Cody in future books. He has lots to learn from this seasoned homicide detective. Well done.
A copy of this book was given to me by Bold Strokes Books via NetGalley for review.
January 19, 2022
I’m a biased reviewer here, for sure. I poured so much of me into this book, and I really hope you all will like it!
March 8, 2022
Whereabouts Unknown is the new standalone novel by Meredith Doench. It is also the perfect book to read if you are a mystery and intrigue reader. I loved reading every page of this story.
Homicide Detective Theodora (Theo) Madsen has a pretty good life. She is thriving in her career with the Dayton Police Department. She has a loving partner Bree, and the two are soon to become parents as Bree is several months pregnant. Things begin to change when Theo is injured working a case of a missing teen that she believes has been kidnapped and possibly harmed. The case is almost dropped by the department while Theo is recovering. Then another teen goes missing in a nearby town in exactly the same manner, and Theo feels she must come back to work even before she is physically ready.
This is a fast-paced, heart pounding kidnapping and possible murder mystery that will have you reading as fast as you can. The characters are well developed, especially Theo. We also get to be in the mind of Annabelle, one of the victims and see what is happening to her in the story. I have to admit that sometimes that was rather frightening to read. The settings and the action are well described, and the climax of the tale will have you on the edge of your seat.
I totally enjoyed reading this novel and recommend it to anyone who loves a great mystery.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
Homicide Detective Theodora (Theo) Madsen has a pretty good life. She is thriving in her career with the Dayton Police Department. She has a loving partner Bree, and the two are soon to become parents as Bree is several months pregnant. Things begin to change when Theo is injured working a case of a missing teen that she believes has been kidnapped and possibly harmed. The case is almost dropped by the department while Theo is recovering. Then another teen goes missing in a nearby town in exactly the same manner, and Theo feels she must come back to work even before she is physically ready.
This is a fast-paced, heart pounding kidnapping and possible murder mystery that will have you reading as fast as you can. The characters are well developed, especially Theo. We also get to be in the mind of Annabelle, one of the victims and see what is happening to her in the story. I have to admit that sometimes that was rather frightening to read. The settings and the action are well described, and the climax of the tale will have you on the edge of your seat.
I totally enjoyed reading this novel and recommend it to anyone who loves a great mystery.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
March 27, 2022
Brilliant! One of my favourite books I've read of 2022. Whereabouts unknown is a faced paced crime/ mystery story. Keeps you on your toes and is definitely a page-turner!
I've given whereabouts unknown 5/5. Can't wait to read more of Meredith Doenchs books
I've given whereabouts unknown 5/5. Can't wait to read more of Meredith Doenchs books
March 8, 2022
Detective Theo Madsen is hot on the trail of a teenage girl who has gone missing when everything starts falling apart. She is hurt on the job and her pregnant partner Bree has to become her caregiver as she recovers. Independent Theo can’t wait to get back to work and find the girls who have gone missing, but also needs to find balance in her personal life as she and Bree count down to when their baby will arrive.
This was a fun thriller, I liked Bree and Theo though would have liked a bit more time with them together. The case of the missing girls definitely kept my attention as I read, at times Theo was so close but not close enough to solving the case. I was a bit frustrated when the case seemed to go cold while Theo was convalescing and it seemed there wasn’t a sense of urgency when following up on some leads that I would hope isn’t the case in real investigations. Also wished there was more of an outline of the time frame, there were some confusing flashback scenes where it took me a bit to realize it was a flashback. The case was very interesting with lots of mystery sprinkled in with some great clues and a satisfying end. Overall it was a great thriller and I’d love to pick up some of the author’s previous work.
This was a fun thriller, I liked Bree and Theo though would have liked a bit more time with them together. The case of the missing girls definitely kept my attention as I read, at times Theo was so close but not close enough to solving the case. I was a bit frustrated when the case seemed to go cold while Theo was convalescing and it seemed there wasn’t a sense of urgency when following up on some leads that I would hope isn’t the case in real investigations. Also wished there was more of an outline of the time frame, there were some confusing flashback scenes where it took me a bit to realize it was a flashback. The case was very interesting with lots of mystery sprinkled in with some great clues and a satisfying end. Overall it was a great thriller and I’d love to pick up some of the author’s previous work.
February 4, 2022
I gobbled up Doench's latest! It's always tricky with two povs but I loved Annabelle and Theo equally, and was riveted watching this case expand. This is a great mystery/thriller, and also raises interesting thematic concerns around parenting and families and disability. While this is marketed as a standalone book, I'm holding out hope we might get a Theo series!!
March 1, 2022
This is my first book by the author, it was ok, but nothing special. I say nothing special but between this book and a series I was watching I had the strangest dream, I might even call it a nightmare. I'm not one to remember my dreams, but this one was very interesting and I hope to never repeat or have happen in real life. I was pregnant and people were fighting about my baby, a baby I said I didn't want. Anyway, enough about me, let's talk about this book.
The cover and blurb really pulled me in, but the story wasn't what I was expecting. I think the blurb is just slightly misleading as to how all of the events happen. We have an established couple, Theo and Bree, we know Theo is in her early fifties. Bree is pregnant but I have no clue how old she is. They are a couple, but we don't really see them interact all that much. It's more about the case and I would say Theo is one main character and one of the teens is another main character. I don't really care for the way this book is told, it was confusing. We have chapters about Theo doing police work and chapters about the missing teen, these alternate with some sort of flashback type chapters/ partial chapters in which we come to understand what happens to the teens. And the flashbacks aren't even in order... I just got confused and didn't care for reading it. I was just hoping for the book to find its stride or just be over with.
Towards the end, it got better, when it was just "real-time". We also got more of Theo and who her character is. I feel like we never get a good understanding of the characters, up until the point I started to wonder if I missed books in a series. From what I could figure out I haven't missed any books.
This is not a type of crime/ mystery book I enjoy, but I am sure others will be able to enjoy it. I encourage you to read other reviews.
*ARC received in exchange for a voluntary and honest review*
The cover and blurb really pulled me in, but the story wasn't what I was expecting. I think the blurb is just slightly misleading as to how all of the events happen. We have an established couple, Theo and Bree, we know Theo is in her early fifties. Bree is pregnant but I have no clue how old she is. They are a couple, but we don't really see them interact all that much. It's more about the case and I would say Theo is one main character and one of the teens is another main character. I don't really care for the way this book is told, it was confusing. We have chapters about Theo doing police work and chapters about the missing teen, these alternate with some sort of flashback type chapters/ partial chapters in which we come to understand what happens to the teens. And the flashbacks aren't even in order... I just got confused and didn't care for reading it. I was just hoping for the book to find its stride or just be over with.
Towards the end, it got better, when it was just "real-time". We also got more of Theo and who her character is. I feel like we never get a good understanding of the characters, up until the point I started to wonder if I missed books in a series. From what I could figure out I haven't missed any books.
This is not a type of crime/ mystery book I enjoy, but I am sure others will be able to enjoy it. I encourage you to read other reviews.
*ARC received in exchange for a voluntary and honest review*
October 9, 2022
This was a great mystery to read that kept me on my toes. It's a book that's definitely more about the crime than it is about the relationship our main character Theo is in. The case takes it's toll on the couple but Bree is quite lovely and unshakable in her love for Theo and their baby. Theo figures it out, both the case and her relationship; in the end.
February 17, 2022
Whereabouts Unknown is a police mystery/thriller. Detective Theodora (Theo) Madsen is successful in her career with the Dayton police force. A missing teenage girl case has gone cold when a phone call provide a lead. It results in a confrontation that puts Theo on desk duty for a bit. When another girl similarly goes missing in nearby city she decides to meet up with that detective to see if the cases are related.
The story jumps to a non-linear time line. Theo's investigation continues chronologically but alternating chapters show the POV of one of the missing girls and dips between past and present. It isn't as confusing as it sounds. This is pretty straight forward police work on the Theo's part. She must deal with parents of the missing girls and potential leads. She is also recovering from her injuries and balancing her home-life where her partner is expecting their first child.
I enjoyed the story but was surprised it didn't feel more suspenseful. (Maybe I was too confident it would all work out in the end.) I liked Theo and her partner Bree. I don't know if the author plans future books featuring Theo but I would be interesting in reading them. Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an eARC in exchange for an honest review. (3.5 stars)
The story jumps to a non-linear time line. Theo's investigation continues chronologically but alternating chapters show the POV of one of the missing girls and dips between past and present. It isn't as confusing as it sounds. This is pretty straight forward police work on the Theo's part. She must deal with parents of the missing girls and potential leads. She is also recovering from her injuries and balancing her home-life where her partner is expecting their first child.
I enjoyed the story but was surprised it didn't feel more suspenseful. (Maybe I was too confident it would all work out in the end.) I liked Theo and her partner Bree. I don't know if the author plans future books featuring Theo but I would be interesting in reading them. Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an eARC in exchange for an honest review. (3.5 stars)
March 18, 2022
This is a very well written thriller. But very dark and grime. Strangely I found myself not being very sympathetic to the young woman victim. She seemed overly naive. I was a bit annoyed with the format of going back and forth in time. Just when a scene was getting interesting the story would flip to another situation. What I really enjoyed was Theo, the lead detective. She is definitely not perfect and including her disability that hindered her ability to function fully in her job, including her frustration, was creative and refreshing. I enjoyed Theo and Bree's personal struggles and I would have liked a little more romance and a little less darkness. I kept thinking "why were the villains so mean. They had the victims corroperation when they treated her nice. If you like dark thrillers with imperfect main characters, this book is for you. I was given this ARC in exchange for an honest review
March 1, 2022
My first novel by Merideth Doench and this is a standalone detective/mystery novel. Thea, a seasoned detective and her partner Bree, a paramedic are expecting their first child. Two unrelated teen girls are missing and it’s Thea’s case after she is sure they are connected. A tragic shooting affecting Thea challenges her in her vulnerability as a cop and a parent. Meanwhile, one of the girls, Annabelle, is a narrator and we know the timing is imperative for the detective to find her. A perfectly well written story where we know more than the police fills us with dread at the sickness in this country. I would have liked to see more of the women’s relationship as that interested me more then the whys and hows of the mystery.
March 11, 2022
I totally expected something else entirely when I read the synopsis. This is my first time reading something by Meredith so I was mainly intrigued by the book's title, cover and synopsis.
I liked the distinction between the characters. Theo, Bree, Anna, Cody, and all the others, they're all so different but they were written clearly so it was easy to follow each one's trail of thoughts. I don't know if Theo and Bree exist in another book series by Meredith because their relationship wasn't all that. Theo's lack responsibility towards Bree and the baby, was such a contrast to her alleged "protector" title.
The plot is solid, though not well exploited. Romance wise, there was not really something. It was my curiosity to find out what happens in the end that made me stay.
I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.
I liked the distinction between the characters. Theo, Bree, Anna, Cody, and all the others, they're all so different but they were written clearly so it was easy to follow each one's trail of thoughts. I don't know if Theo and Bree exist in another book series by Meredith because their relationship wasn't all that. Theo's lack responsibility towards Bree and the baby, was such a contrast to her alleged "protector" title.
The plot is solid, though not well exploited. Romance wise, there was not really something. It was my curiosity to find out what happens in the end that made me stay.
I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.
June 6, 2022
On a routine visit to the business employing someone possibly involved with a missing persons case she's working on, Detective Theodora "Theo" Madsen is gravely injured and put out of commission for weeks. Meanwhile, the missing persons case goes cold, and Theo is frustrated with her damaged body, guilty about the grief of the girl's mother, and worried about her own fast approaching motherhood with her wife's nearing delivery date. Then, another girl goes missing, and this case bears a striking resemblance to the previous case, down to the girls' family lives and possible reasons for the disappearances. There is a complication, however: the second girl has lupus, and needs her drugs to maintain her somewhat fragile health, so it's imperative to locate her and the other girl.
At the same time, we see the situation of the second missing girl, Annabelle, both before and after she disappears, and come to understand her reasons for her actions, and how she ended up where she did.
I’ve never read anything by this author before, but I’m now interested in reading other mysteries she's written because I enjoyed this book. The pacing was good, and Theo and Annabelle were well characterized.
Annabelle elicited my sympathy, and despite her family and health difficulties, proved herself to be tough.
I could empathize with Theo as she worried about how her life would change with a baby, and her fears and ambivalence about becoming a mother. She’s a cop who’s given a lot of herself to her job, and fears she won’t be able to commit to a child. She also sees the missing girls' mothers' lives ripped to shreds through their fear and grief; Theo can’t help wondering how she’d handle that. Also, with her no longer totally strong body, she’s afraid she won’t be able to do her job, much less keep up with her wife and soon-to-be child. I would love to see Detective Theo Madsen tackle another case.
Thank you to Netgalley and to Bold Strokes Books, Inc. for this ARC in exchange for my review.
At the same time, we see the situation of the second missing girl, Annabelle, both before and after she disappears, and come to understand her reasons for her actions, and how she ended up where she did.
I’ve never read anything by this author before, but I’m now interested in reading other mysteries she's written because I enjoyed this book. The pacing was good, and Theo and Annabelle were well characterized.
Annabelle elicited my sympathy, and despite her family and health difficulties, proved herself to be tough.
I could empathize with Theo as she worried about how her life would change with a baby, and her fears and ambivalence about becoming a mother. She’s a cop who’s given a lot of herself to her job, and fears she won’t be able to commit to a child. She also sees the missing girls' mothers' lives ripped to shreds through their fear and grief; Theo can’t help wondering how she’d handle that. Also, with her no longer totally strong body, she’s afraid she won’t be able to do her job, much less keep up with her wife and soon-to-be child. I would love to see Detective Theo Madsen tackle another case.
Thank you to Netgalley and to Bold Strokes Books, Inc. for this ARC in exchange for my review.
March 14, 2022
I thought the book was a well written mystery and suspense, The characters were well developed. I enjoyed the story and thought the author did a great job. I recommend 4 stars
Thank you NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for this Arc in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for this Arc in exchange for my honest review.
April 10, 2022
I was really taken with this book, and it was one of those reads that grabs hold of you and won't let you get anything else done! When I had to put the book down to, um, actually work (!) I was haunted by these compelling characters until I could get back to them. I loved the two different point of view characters and the wonderful ways they paralleled and contrasted. Theo and Annabelle are both tough cookies, and I adore stories about strong women. The story contains some twists and turns and took me into a darker place than I expected--made all the more disturbing for its chilling reality in our time. I haven't stopped thinking about it since I finished the last page weeks ago.
March 5, 2022
E-ARC provided by netgalley and Boldstrokes in exchange for an honest review
Actual rating- 4.5 stars
Whereabouts Unknown is a mystery thriller book that follows three main characters- Theo Madsen, a detective who has been injured on the job while she has a baby on the way, and two girls who have gone missing in Ohio- one in her jurisdiction, and one outside. Along the way we meet a fleshed out group of side characters, such as Theo's wife Bree, her partner Kate, the rookie detective Cody, an old lady who is being harassed by her neighbors, and Bree's family. The book is told from dual POV, through flashbacks to the past and present time.
Wow. I loved this book. The twists and turns that it took and the new dark plot elements that kept being introduced really pulled me in, making me wonder what had happened, how, and why. I always knew that all of the elements to the story would converge in someway, but I kept asking myself how, looking for the connections between various people. I became incredibly attached to Bree, Theo, and Annabelle as I read, and I found myself rooting for them the entire time. This book truly is a roller coaster of emotions, but in the end it all came together in a way that was horrifying, but explained well.
This book also touches on topics of lesbian parental roles, the alt-right pipeline, disability, and chronic illness. I believe that all of these topics were handled extremely well and I am grateful that they were not added just for shock value or thrown in without thought. I also appreciated that there was not a lot of body horror in this book. No, this book is mainly about the horror that humans can inflict on others, along with trying to figure out why, while also showcasing hope that can light up even the darkest moments. My only light criticism on this book is that I wanted to know more about the aftermath of the climax, but that is only because I became so attached to these characters and their stories. I truly enjoyed the book and will be checking out more by Doench, as this is my first read from her.
Actual rating- 4.5 stars
Whereabouts Unknown is a mystery thriller book that follows three main characters- Theo Madsen, a detective who has been injured on the job while she has a baby on the way, and two girls who have gone missing in Ohio- one in her jurisdiction, and one outside. Along the way we meet a fleshed out group of side characters, such as Theo's wife Bree, her partner Kate, the rookie detective Cody, an old lady who is being harassed by her neighbors, and Bree's family. The book is told from dual POV, through flashbacks to the past and present time.
Wow. I loved this book. The twists and turns that it took and the new dark plot elements that kept being introduced really pulled me in, making me wonder what had happened, how, and why. I always knew that all of the elements to the story would converge in someway, but I kept asking myself how, looking for the connections between various people. I became incredibly attached to Bree, Theo, and Annabelle as I read, and I found myself rooting for them the entire time. This book truly is a roller coaster of emotions, but in the end it all came together in a way that was horrifying, but explained well.
This book also touches on topics of lesbian parental roles, the alt-right pipeline, disability, and chronic illness. I believe that all of these topics were handled extremely well and I am grateful that they were not added just for shock value or thrown in without thought. I also appreciated that there was not a lot of body horror in this book. No, this book is mainly about the horror that humans can inflict on others, along with trying to figure out why, while also showcasing hope that can light up even the darkest moments. My only light criticism on this book is that I wanted to know more about the aftermath of the climax, but that is only because I became so attached to these characters and their stories. I truly enjoyed the book and will be checking out more by Doench, as this is my first read from her.
June 6, 2022
I loved this thriller! A scary, wild ride with unforgettable characters. It’s also a thoughtful meditation on chronic illness, injury and the ableist society we live in
May 4, 2022
Doench's crime thrillers are always a pleasure, and I admit that I am a big fan of her work! "Whereabouts Unknown" is no exception-- in fact, it's my favorite so far. I loved the complexities of relationships that were at once bound by tenderness, disappointment, obligation, and dedication. Doensh's plotting made some reaches in this one, but I was willing to follow here everywhere she led-- and so glad that I did. She is steadily becoming a master of the form, and the book crackles with excitement.
March 24, 2022
Really good mystery/thriller. This is a genre I don't read very often, but I'm glad that I read this book. This book was gripping from start to finish. The first chapter snagged my attention, and didn't let go until the end. The characters were really developed well and you could just feel the terror and despair from what was happening to each person throughout this book. The police perspective seemed spot on to me, and the the villain was such a surprise that it shocked me a bit. This is the first-time I have read anything from this author, but I can honestly say it won't be the last time. I would definitely recommend this book to all my friends and family, and I look forward to what this author writes next.
March 28, 2022
Meredith Doench’s WHEREABOUTS UNKNOWN drips with dread from the first page and doesn’t let up until the last painful twist. Switching between the POVs of Detective Theo with all of her apprehensions about having a baby with her partner and Annabelle, a teen girl trapped in a horrific situation possibly tied to another missing girl, Doench does an excellent job keeping readers on edge while building characters with emotional depth. Although this book is listed as a standalone, I certainly wouldn’t mind seeing Detective Theo again.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an early copy.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an early copy.
April 12, 2022
Don’t read many police procedurals lately but I enjoyed the grittiness, depth of characters, and strong sense of place. Kept me turning the pages!
March 15, 2022
Theo Madsen was one of the best homicide detectives working with the Dayton Police Department and she loved her job. She’s been lucky so far but when checking out a suspect's alibi she along with her partner Cody were under attack, leaving one person dead and Theo seriously hurt.
This wasn’t just any case, this was a search trying to find what happened to a young teen, Grace. Now they finally had a somewhat questionable suspect but before they could look into the case another teen, Annabelle, had also disappeared without a trace.
Now home trying to get herself back in shape she’s still kept in the loop by her fellow police officers. On top of everything else Theo’s girlfriend, Bree is pregnant with their baby. But for now it seems the only thing Theo can think about is where the teens are and how to find them. That’s if either girl is still alive.
Ms Doench has written one of those books that is full of twists and turns, with characters that you can’t help liking. A wonderful mystery.
ARC via NetGalley/ Bold Stroke Books.
This wasn’t just any case, this was a search trying to find what happened to a young teen, Grace. Now they finally had a somewhat questionable suspect but before they could look into the case another teen, Annabelle, had also disappeared without a trace.
Now home trying to get herself back in shape she’s still kept in the loop by her fellow police officers. On top of everything else Theo’s girlfriend, Bree is pregnant with their baby. But for now it seems the only thing Theo can think about is where the teens are and how to find them. That’s if either girl is still alive.
Ms Doench has written one of those books that is full of twists and turns, with characters that you can’t help liking. A wonderful mystery.
ARC via NetGalley/ Bold Stroke Books.
February 27, 2022
I really enjoyed this book. I like Ms Doench’s previous books and I wasn’t disappointed in this one. Theo is an excellent character and her relationship with Bree is well developed giving due weight to the need Theo has to find two missing 16 year old girls, while attending to her pregnant partner. Then Theo is hurt and her struggles and doubts feed into her obsession to help the missing teenagers.
Meredith Doench is an accomplished writer and easily makes you care about Theo and the other characters. The points of view shift but the shifts are well executed and you are clear whose voice is speaking at all times. Trying to be a hero isn’t what this is about but Theo’s need to help might be all that can save the girls. Certainly she won’t give up even if it would be personally foolish to carry on.
You’ll root for Theo and Bree. You’ll shake your head at fundamentalists and preppers and you will drive through to the satisfying conclusion
I was given a copy of this book by Netgalley
Meredith Doench is an accomplished writer and easily makes you care about Theo and the other characters. The points of view shift but the shifts are well executed and you are clear whose voice is speaking at all times. Trying to be a hero isn’t what this is about but Theo’s need to help might be all that can save the girls. Certainly she won’t give up even if it would be personally foolish to carry on.
You’ll root for Theo and Bree. You’ll shake your head at fundamentalists and preppers and you will drive through to the satisfying conclusion
I was given a copy of this book by Netgalley
June 15, 2022
I loved this book! This is my first read by this author, and I've heard such good things about her series. I thought I'd give the new one a try and it's so good. I hardly put it down for 3 days. I really hope Theo becomes a series! This one has two points of view, the detective and the victim. I loved seeing both sides of what was happening and the way it all came together. I don't want to spiol any details! Highly recommend for mystery lovers.
March 14, 2022
Thriller meets romance meets…confusion in this novel by Meredith Doench.
The book started off strong. The dual perspective of a girl trapped in a storage container and the investigator on the hunt to find her was interesting. But that was the most interesting thing about it. There was minimal character development, a lack of relationship dynamics and growth, and just an overall lack of depth in the writing.
Was it entertaining? Certainly. But would I recommend it at the top of my list? No. It felt rushed but drawn out at the same time. It was predictable. It lacked that intensity that so many thrillers provide. It left me wanting more and at times the timeline was jumbled and hard to follow.
The book started off strong. The dual perspective of a girl trapped in a storage container and the investigator on the hunt to find her was interesting. But that was the most interesting thing about it. There was minimal character development, a lack of relationship dynamics and growth, and just an overall lack of depth in the writing.
Was it entertaining? Certainly. But would I recommend it at the top of my list? No. It felt rushed but drawn out at the same time. It was predictable. It lacked that intensity that so many thrillers provide. It left me wanting more and at times the timeline was jumbled and hard to follow.
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