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Local Girl Missing
When local woman Deborah goes missing, her colleagues Adrian, Yvonne and Merriel are all left in shock. Gossip around the office begins to swirl – what could have happened to Deborah? Is she dead or alive? And who could be responsible for her disappearance?
Everyone is terrified that they could be next…except the one person who has all the answers. The last person people expect.
Because Deborah is being held captive by a monster, a psychopath. But not a stranger… it’s someone she knows all too well…
Everyone is terrified that they could be next…except the one person who has all the answers. The last person people expect.
Because Deborah is being held captive by a monster, a psychopath. But not a stranger… it’s someone she knows all too well…
292 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 7, 2022
1448 people are currently reading
1087 people want to read
About the author
J.A. Baker
24 books342 followersJ. A. Baker was born and brought up in the North East of England.
When she's not writing and thinking up new and inventive ways of killing off her fictional characters, or looking after her young grandchildren, she can be found pottering around her garden with her madcap dog, Theo or in a coffee shop eating cake with her long suffering husband.
When she's not writing and thinking up new and inventive ways of killing off her fictional characters, or looking after her young grandchildren, she can be found pottering around her garden with her madcap dog, Theo or in a coffee shop eating cake with her long suffering husband.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 197 reviews
December 1, 2022
Adrian, Yvonne and Merriel are in shock when their co-worker, Deborah goes missing. Naturally everyone at work begins to wonder what happened to her. Did she leave on her own? Was she taken? Is she still alive? Was she taken by a killer? Who could be behind her disappearance? Everyone is afraid, except for one person - the one who knows the answers to all the questions!
This book is told through various POV's. One is Deborah's and readers learn what is happening to her. She is being held by a psychopath. Will she survive? What is going to happen to her? She is alone initially but soon she is joined by another captive.
This book grabbed my attention from the beginning and then began to slow down. I am not a big fan of slowness in books, thankfully, the speed picked up again as the character's pasts are revealed. As the book goes back and forth from the past to the present, Deborah's plight becomes more dangerous. The tension begins to mount.
I always enjoy trying to figure out whodunit. The author provides readers with many suspects as the characters were not that likeable and they all have secrets.
For me this was an enjoyable read that had me doing my own detective work. The slowness hindered my enjoyment to a degree. Having said that, I would happily read this author again as the parts in this book which were gripping were very nicely done.
#LocalGirlMissing #NetGalley
Thank you to Boldwood Books and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
This book is told through various POV's. One is Deborah's and readers learn what is happening to her. She is being held by a psychopath. Will she survive? What is going to happen to her? She is alone initially but soon she is joined by another captive.
This book grabbed my attention from the beginning and then began to slow down. I am not a big fan of slowness in books, thankfully, the speed picked up again as the character's pasts are revealed. As the book goes back and forth from the past to the present, Deborah's plight becomes more dangerous. The tension begins to mount.
I always enjoy trying to figure out whodunit. The author provides readers with many suspects as the characters were not that likeable and they all have secrets.
For me this was an enjoyable read that had me doing my own detective work. The slowness hindered my enjoyment to a degree. Having said that, I would happily read this author again as the parts in this book which were gripping were very nicely done.
#LocalGirlMissing #NetGalley
Thank you to Boldwood Books and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
December 7, 2022
I have read nearly all of this authors books and always enjoyed them….this one being my new favourite of hers
The book is based around an office environment,always fascinating for a book when done well and also a locked room with one prisoner that turns into two….both places brought together by secrets and hidden pasts and in a way a pyschological whodunit I think that is dark,chilling and yet doesn’t freeze you out ( if makes sense )
We are given tantalsiing clues and I knew there was links to the characters throughout but the author very cleverley gave nothing away and so throughout I was trying to work it out and put things together and work out who was good or bad or a bit of both!
An excellent read,kept my interest from start to finish,very well written for the reader 🙂
The book is based around an office environment,always fascinating for a book when done well and also a locked room with one prisoner that turns into two….both places brought together by secrets and hidden pasts and in a way a pyschological whodunit I think that is dark,chilling and yet doesn’t freeze you out ( if makes sense )
We are given tantalsiing clues and I knew there was links to the characters throughout but the author very cleverley gave nothing away and so throughout I was trying to work it out and put things together and work out who was good or bad or a bit of both!
An excellent read,kept my interest from start to finish,very well written for the reader 🙂
February 14, 2023
3.75 stars.
My first book by this author.
This is a good psychological thriller.
I enjoyed the writing and the structure of the storyline.
There are multiples narrators that I thought were cleverly displayed.
The storyline was gripping and got my attention from the start, but the pace is a bit slow in the middle.
I loved the somber atmosphere through out the book, which helped building tension, especially around Deborah’s character and around a little girl.
I still don’t know how I feel about the conclusion, so I may re-read it another time.
For now all I can say is that I’m looking forward to reading more books by this author.
My first book by this author.
This is a good psychological thriller.
I enjoyed the writing and the structure of the storyline.
There are multiples narrators that I thought were cleverly displayed.
The storyline was gripping and got my attention from the start, but the pace is a bit slow in the middle.
I loved the somber atmosphere through out the book, which helped building tension, especially around Deborah’s character and around a little girl.
I still don’t know how I feel about the conclusion, so I may re-read it another time.
For now all I can say is that I’m looking forward to reading more books by this author.
January 18, 2023
4.25⭐
Featuring ~ multiple 1st person POV, dual timeline with "many years earlier" in the 3rd person, co-workers, office environment, abduction, survival, some violence
Our narrators are co-workers Deborah, Adrian, Yvonne and Merriel.
Chapter 1 gets to the nitty gritty as we read about Deborah being held captive. And let me just tell you she's a smart captive and seems to have her head on straight even though she's losing tremendously. Except...
The multiple narrators really worked well for this as it kept up, not only the suspense of who the abductor is, but the intensity of Deborah and Izzy trying their best to escape. And we had the added chapters with the twins that kept us guessing how they would weave into the story. I did go back and forth with my thoughts of who it could be and I did figure it out, but I was pleased with how it all played out.
I do have to say there were some long paragraphs with lots of monologue and little dialogue, which made for some slowness. Also, there wasn't any police work ~ I guess since she's been missing for a few weeks they're not still trying to find her? I'd like my disappearance to be investigated until my bones are recovered please.
Can someone please tell me what the point of
Side note ~ why is the title Local Girl Missing and not Local Woman Missing?
Overall, a great psychological thriller that makes me hope I'd be as fierce as Deborah if I was ever held captive. I'd for sure read this authors work again..
*Thanks to J.A. Baker, Rachel's Random Resources, Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the ARC. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
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Featuring ~ multiple 1st person POV, dual timeline with "many years earlier" in the 3rd person, co-workers, office environment, abduction, survival, some violence
Our narrators are co-workers Deborah, Adrian, Yvonne and Merriel.
Chapter 1 gets to the nitty gritty as we read about Deborah being held captive. And let me just tell you she's a smart captive and seems to have her head on straight even though she's losing tremendously. Except...
The multiple narrators really worked well for this as it kept up, not only the suspense of who the abductor is, but the intensity of Deborah and Izzy trying their best to escape. And we had the added chapters with the twins that kept us guessing how they would weave into the story. I did go back and forth with my thoughts of who it could be and I did figure it out, but I was pleased with how it all played out.
I do have to say there were some long paragraphs with lots of monologue and little dialogue, which made for some slowness. Also, there wasn't any police work ~ I guess since she's been missing for a few weeks they're not still trying to find her? I'd like my disappearance to be investigated until my bones are recovered please.
Can someone please tell me what the point of
Side note ~ why is the title Local Girl Missing and not Local Woman Missing?
Overall, a great psychological thriller that makes me hope I'd be as fierce as Deborah if I was ever held captive. I'd for sure read this authors work again..
*Thanks to J.A. Baker, Rachel's Random Resources, Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the ARC. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
Follow me here ➡ Blog ~ Facebook
November 23, 2022
When local woman Deborah goes missing, her colleagues Adrian, Yvonne and Merril are left in shock. Gossip around the office begins to swirl = what could have happened to Deborah? Is she dead or alive? And who could be responsible for her disappearance? Everyone is terrified that they could be next.... except the one person who has all the answers. The last person people would expect. Deborah is being held captive by a monster, a psychopath. But not a stranger.... it's someone she knows all too well.
This is a story of survival. The story is told from multiple points of view. Filled with secrets and lies. it was hard to know who was telling the truth. The characters are well developed with a good depth to their backstories. This is a tense, gripping and well written read. It did take me a couple of chapters to get into the storyline, but once I was in, I was hooked. It can also be a bit gruesome in places.
I would like to thank #Netgalley #BoldWoodBooks and the author #JABaker for my ARC of #LocalGirlMissing in exchange for an honest review.
This is a story of survival. The story is told from multiple points of view. Filled with secrets and lies. it was hard to know who was telling the truth. The characters are well developed with a good depth to their backstories. This is a tense, gripping and well written read. It did take me a couple of chapters to get into the storyline, but once I was in, I was hooked. It can also be a bit gruesome in places.
I would like to thank #Netgalley #BoldWoodBooks and the author #JABaker for my ARC of #LocalGirlMissing in exchange for an honest review.
May 21, 2023
3.25 Stars — A well-crafted mystery that clearly has some potential, but ultimately this one fell a little short of some of the other crime mystery thrillers I’ve read of late. Factoring in of course, that we’re truly spoiled for choice in this decade, the genre is not wha fit used it be — I mean jus think about the incredible diversity & skill now seen in past 24m alone! Worth the read, there’s just better out there that’s all.
“Local Girl Missing" by J.A. Baker presents readers with an intriguing premise and a promising start, but unfortunately falls short of delivering a fully satisfying thriller experience. While the novel has its gripping moments and a compelling mystery at its core, it is marred by inconsistent pacing, underdeveloped characters, and a lackluster resolution.
The book opens with the disappearance of Isla Bell, a young woman who vanishes without a trace from a small coastal town. Years later, her best friend, Kate, returns to the town determined to uncover the truth behind Isla's disappearance. The dual timeline narrative alternates between present-day events and flashbacks, slowly unraveling the secrets and unveiling the connections between the characters.
The strength of "Local Girl Missing" lies in its atmospheric setting and the author's ability to create a sense of unease. The small-town dynamics, with their secrets and gossip, add an element of tension to the story. The author's prose is descriptive, effectively conveying the eerie atmosphere and the characters' emotions.
However, the novel suffers from pacing issues, particularly in the middle sections. The plot occasionally stagnates, with repetitive scenes and slow progress in the investigation. This can make the reading experience feel tedious and somewhat disjointed, hindering the overall enjoyment of the story.
Furthermore, the character development in "Local Girl Missing" is lacking. While Kate's determination to uncover the truth about her friend is commendable, her personality remains relatively one-dimensional. Other supporting characters also feel underdeveloped, lacking the depth and complexity that would make them truly memorable. This prevents readers from fully connecting with or investing in the fate of the characters.
The resolution of the mystery is another area where the novel falls short. After building up suspense and anticipation throughout the book, the ultimate reveal feels rushed and anticlimactic. The conclusion lacks the satisfying payoff that readers crave in a mystery thriller, leaving loose ends and unanswered questions.
Despite its flaws, "Local Girl Missing" still manages to captivate readers with its premise and occasional moments of suspense. The author's ability to create an atmospheric setting and build tension should be acknowledged. However, the book ultimately fails to live up to its full potential due to pacing issues, underdeveloped characters, and a lackluster resolution. Readers seeking a fast-paced and intricately plotted thriller may find themselves disappointed.
Well, in summation, "Local Girl Missing" offers a promising premise & a well described atmospheric setting, but falls short in its overall execution. While it undoubtedly will hold some appeal for fans of slightly less graphic or complex mystery novels, it struggles to deliver a fully satisfying reading experience, especially in comparison to some of the great reads we are seeing this plentiful era!
“Local Girl Missing" by J.A. Baker presents readers with an intriguing premise and a promising start, but unfortunately falls short of delivering a fully satisfying thriller experience. While the novel has its gripping moments and a compelling mystery at its core, it is marred by inconsistent pacing, underdeveloped characters, and a lackluster resolution.
The book opens with the disappearance of Isla Bell, a young woman who vanishes without a trace from a small coastal town. Years later, her best friend, Kate, returns to the town determined to uncover the truth behind Isla's disappearance. The dual timeline narrative alternates between present-day events and flashbacks, slowly unraveling the secrets and unveiling the connections between the characters.
The strength of "Local Girl Missing" lies in its atmospheric setting and the author's ability to create a sense of unease. The small-town dynamics, with their secrets and gossip, add an element of tension to the story. The author's prose is descriptive, effectively conveying the eerie atmosphere and the characters' emotions.
However, the novel suffers from pacing issues, particularly in the middle sections. The plot occasionally stagnates, with repetitive scenes and slow progress in the investigation. This can make the reading experience feel tedious and somewhat disjointed, hindering the overall enjoyment of the story.
Furthermore, the character development in "Local Girl Missing" is lacking. While Kate's determination to uncover the truth about her friend is commendable, her personality remains relatively one-dimensional. Other supporting characters also feel underdeveloped, lacking the depth and complexity that would make them truly memorable. This prevents readers from fully connecting with or investing in the fate of the characters.
The resolution of the mystery is another area where the novel falls short. After building up suspense and anticipation throughout the book, the ultimate reveal feels rushed and anticlimactic. The conclusion lacks the satisfying payoff that readers crave in a mystery thriller, leaving loose ends and unanswered questions.
Despite its flaws, "Local Girl Missing" still manages to captivate readers with its premise and occasional moments of suspense. The author's ability to create an atmospheric setting and build tension should be acknowledged. However, the book ultimately fails to live up to its full potential due to pacing issues, underdeveloped characters, and a lackluster resolution. Readers seeking a fast-paced and intricately plotted thriller may find themselves disappointed.
Well, in summation, "Local Girl Missing" offers a promising premise & a well described atmospheric setting, but falls short in its overall execution. While it undoubtedly will hold some appeal for fans of slightly less graphic or complex mystery novels, it struggles to deliver a fully satisfying reading experience, especially in comparison to some of the great reads we are seeing this plentiful era!
November 7, 2022
Local Girl Missing, by J. A. Baker (Review)
Local Girl Missing is a twisty novel. There is a slow burn that leads to a shocking end to the plot.
Synopsis:
Deborah's colleagues Adrian, Yvonne, and Merriel are all left in shock after she is declared missing without a trace. In the office, her co-workers talk about what could have happened to Deborah. Where is she? What is her fate? Does she have a chance of survival? What could have led to her disappearance? There is only one person who has the answers. The person who isn't afraid of being next. The person people least suspect...
The book begins with a bang, but then it slows down. There is a bit of dryness in the middle of the story, but the ending is excellent. It is my first time reading Baker's work. Hopefully, I'll be able to read more soon. There is a fair amount of violence in it. Be sure to check the trigger warnings before proceeding.
I am grateful to NetGalley, Boldwood Books and Boldwood Bloggers for allowing me to review this interesting novel.
Local Girl Missing is available on December 7th.
#LocalGirlMissing #booklover #bookmail #Boldwoodbloggers #Blogtour
#bookworm #bookishcommunity #bookstagramcommunity #readingcommunity #Books #bookfriends #booksbooksbooks #booksta #bookstagram #newtobookstagram #bookreview #bookreviews #instabookstagram #bookish #bookishlife #newtobookstagram #newtoinsta #newtoinstagra #Bookishcom
Local Girl Missing is a twisty novel. There is a slow burn that leads to a shocking end to the plot.
Synopsis:
Deborah's colleagues Adrian, Yvonne, and Merriel are all left in shock after she is declared missing without a trace. In the office, her co-workers talk about what could have happened to Deborah. Where is she? What is her fate? Does she have a chance of survival? What could have led to her disappearance? There is only one person who has the answers. The person who isn't afraid of being next. The person people least suspect...
The book begins with a bang, but then it slows down. There is a bit of dryness in the middle of the story, but the ending is excellent. It is my first time reading Baker's work. Hopefully, I'll be able to read more soon. There is a fair amount of violence in it. Be sure to check the trigger warnings before proceeding.
I am grateful to NetGalley, Boldwood Books and Boldwood Bloggers for allowing me to review this interesting novel.
Local Girl Missing is available on December 7th.
#LocalGirlMissing #booklover #bookmail #Boldwoodbloggers #Blogtour
#bookworm #bookishcommunity #bookstagramcommunity #readingcommunity #Books #bookfriends #booksbooksbooks #booksta #bookstagram #newtobookstagram #bookreview #bookreviews #instabookstagram #bookish #bookishlife #newtobookstagram #newtoinsta #newtoinstagra #Bookishcom
November 25, 2022
This was an okay read, too busy in places and so many character all shouting their own opinions. There was some tension but very slow in places. Not one of her best books, saying that I am sure other readers will enjoy it more just not for me.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.
November 9, 2022
This book was good but there were too many people up for the job of the bad guy. You suspected EVERYONE by the end and that was irritating and confusing.
Do I recommend this book? I wouldn't say don't read it but I wouldn't go out of my way to say read it.
Do I recommend this book? I wouldn't say don't read it but I wouldn't go out of my way to say read it.
December 5, 2022
I've read one other book by this author and while I don't usually judge an author by one book maybe I should have taken into consideration that previous read before delving into this one. Honestly? The premise to this sounded intriguing...but the story played out a whole lot differently. I got to around 15% before I ended up skimming to the end to find out what happened because I really didn't much care for it otherwise.
The chapters weren't long as such but they felt endless with everyone's moaning and monologuing that just seemed to be a constant whine about their co-workers and the incessant gossip about Deborah's disappearance. So she disappeared? It's been weeks now...get over it, kind of thing. And then there were those who weren't friendly with Deborah before she disappeared who suddenly seemed to take a huge interest in her and the fact she'd disappeared and that they were at the centre of it to feed off with their friends.
No, LOCAL GIRL MISSING wasn't for me. I didn't enjoy it one bit. Probably even less that the only other book by this author I've read "The Uninvited". And I'll try and remember that next time I see one of this author's books, no matter how intriguing the premise sounds, to keep scrolling because their style isn't for me.
I would like to thank #JABaker, #Netgalley, #BoldwoodBooks and #RachelsRandomResources for an ARC of #LocalGirlMissing in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
The chapters weren't long as such but they felt endless with everyone's moaning and monologuing that just seemed to be a constant whine about their co-workers and the incessant gossip about Deborah's disappearance. So she disappeared? It's been weeks now...get over it, kind of thing. And then there were those who weren't friendly with Deborah before she disappeared who suddenly seemed to take a huge interest in her and the fact she'd disappeared and that they were at the centre of it to feed off with their friends.
No, LOCAL GIRL MISSING wasn't for me. I didn't enjoy it one bit. Probably even less that the only other book by this author I've read "The Uninvited". And I'll try and remember that next time I see one of this author's books, no matter how intriguing the premise sounds, to keep scrolling because their style isn't for me.
I would like to thank #JABaker, #Netgalley, #BoldwoodBooks and #RachelsRandomResources for an ARC of #LocalGirlMissing in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
May 29, 2024
I did like this book. But for me some bits were long winded. I kind of figured who was the bad person quite early on. It still though found the book quite good.
December 1, 2022
I received this ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
This is my first book by the author but I’ve seen her work before so I was looking forward to getting started.
The start of the book is excellent, it throws your right it the deep-end in the middle of all the action, then it moves on to Deborah’s workplace and how her office friends are coping after her disappearance and what secrets they may be hiding?.
I don’t want to give too much away because I don’t want to spoil the book at all but this is a twisty thriller that will keep you guessing right up until the very end and I’m going to look up the previous work by the author.
This is my first book by the author but I’ve seen her work before so I was looking forward to getting started.
The start of the book is excellent, it throws your right it the deep-end in the middle of all the action, then it moves on to Deborah’s workplace and how her office friends are coping after her disappearance and what secrets they may be hiding?.
I don’t want to give too much away because I don’t want to spoil the book at all but this is a twisty thriller that will keep you guessing right up until the very end and I’m going to look up the previous work by the author.
September 12, 2023
This book wasn't bad and kept me interested but I called it pretty early on on what was happening. It felt like it drug on for longer than it should have - but I think that's because I was pretty sure what was going on so I just kind of wanted to get to it. Not a bad read for a day read!
December 7, 2022
Judith Baker has produced an outstanding novel with characters who eat away at you because you are left with no idea who the baddie is, beyond knowing it’s a work colleague. That’s not helpful because all the characters are work colleagues… I loved this book, loved the way the story was told with each chapter allocated to a character, and each person’s story told during that chapter. It’s clever, it’s enthralling and it’s a sure fire winner. Read the blurb for the storyline, then buy the book. A massive five stars from me, Baker is one of my favourite authors, and she definitely held that place with this one!
February 10, 2023
I found this one of the authors most gripping reads . The tension, the curiosity as to who was the abductor. I guessed then guessed again several times. The characters were so believable that I was drawn in from the start . Revelations unfolded and I was desperate to discover the ending.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 6, 2022
Gossip spreads around the office, when Deborah disappears. Her colleagues are terrified of who could be next. But Deborah knows her captor, and they’re a psychopath.
I found this book to be really confusing. There were a lot of characters I was trying to piece together. There is a lot of back and forth and told in different perspectives.
The title made me think it was a little girl that goes missing. But it’s a woman. I didn’t expect the book to have so many different characters, and that the plot was a little wishy washy for me. I thought it was about a girl who goes missing and that’s it. But there’s so many different parts to it.
This book just didn’t pull me in as much as I wanted it to.
Thank you to the publisher for an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review
Local Girl Missing is available December 7.
I found this book to be really confusing. There were a lot of characters I was trying to piece together. There is a lot of back and forth and told in different perspectives.
The title made me think it was a little girl that goes missing. But it’s a woman. I didn’t expect the book to have so many different characters, and that the plot was a little wishy washy for me. I thought it was about a girl who goes missing and that’s it. But there’s so many different parts to it.
This book just didn’t pull me in as much as I wanted it to.
Thank you to the publisher for an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review
Local Girl Missing is available December 7.
December 2, 2022
When Deborah goes missing, she leaves a void in her office. Her colleagues Adrian, Yvonne, Merriel and Ruth all try their best to keep morale up but when another person in town disappears, they are genuinely scared. Who is behind it all?
Told through short chapters and multiple POV's, we get to hear from Deborah and her other colleagues. I did manage to successfully guess who the culprit was but this did not take away from the enjoyment of the book. This was a decent thriller that kept me entertained throughout.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Told through short chapters and multiple POV's, we get to hear from Deborah and her other colleagues. I did manage to successfully guess who the culprit was but this did not take away from the enjoyment of the book. This was a decent thriller that kept me entertained throughout.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
December 13, 2022
When Deborah goes missing it is her colleagues speculation as to where she could be and whether she is dead or alive. But while Deborah is being held captive she realises it’s not always a stranger you need to be wary of.
This novel is told through different characters' points of view, allowing the narrative to be fast-paced and filled with tension. I found myself constantly changing my mind about who the villain was and this novel left me guessing until the very end.
A fantastic novel that I flew through and any reader will love.
This novel is told through different characters' points of view, allowing the narrative to be fast-paced and filled with tension. I found myself constantly changing my mind about who the villain was and this novel left me guessing until the very end.
A fantastic novel that I flew through and any reader will love.
May 22, 2023
I definitely will be reading more by J.A. Baker. This book kept me guessing the whole time. I love that. The ending was shocking. Overall great read.
November 22, 2022
Deborah goes missing after leaving the North East office that she works in one evening. Her colleagues are still wondering what has happened to her some time later.
The book is mainly based where Deborah is being held and in the office. Through the book, we slowly unwrap the layers of Deborah’s work colleagues.
The story is told from different points of view but it doesn’t take long to know who is who.
It is a story that is different to most that you read. I found it to be an intense and dark thriller. A story full of secrets and lies that will leave you guessing until the final reveal. Chilling and excellent writing from the author.
The book is mainly based where Deborah is being held and in the office. Through the book, we slowly unwrap the layers of Deborah’s work colleagues.
The story is told from different points of view but it doesn’t take long to know who is who.
It is a story that is different to most that you read. I found it to be an intense and dark thriller. A story full of secrets and lies that will leave you guessing until the final reveal. Chilling and excellent writing from the author.
January 20, 2023
Kinda boring. Hard to get through. Predictable. Lackluster.
I kept waiting for the plot to tie together and it finally did right at the end in a very unsatisfying way. No explanation as to why Rosa pretended to be Sadie. No explanation of what Beth had to do with any of this, except to drive as a plot device for Adrian’s story.
I kept waiting for the plot to tie together and it finally did right at the end in a very unsatisfying way. No explanation as to why Rosa pretended to be Sadie. No explanation of what Beth had to do with any of this, except to drive as a plot device for Adrian’s story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 15, 2023
This book took me forever to finish. Too many story lines and I still don’t know who the hell did “it” at the end or who was who.
October 8, 2023
Terrific book! It keeps you guessing.
December 14, 2022
I have been a fan of J. A. Baker's for a while now. I haven't quite caught up with everything that she has written to date but that is something I hope to rectify in the not too distant future. I read the synopsis of 'Local Girl Missing' and it certainly sounded like an intriguing read. I couldn't wait to start reading and so without further ado, I grabbed my Kindle, grabbed a cup of tea and settle down for an interesting afternoon of reading. Overall I did enjoy reading 'Local Girl Missing' but more about that in a bit.
I have to be honest and say that it took me a little while to get into 'Local Girl Missing' which has more to do with the fact that I was tired and finding it hard to concentrate than anything else. I can't say that I particularly warmed to the characters but that's not necessarily a bad thing. Of course it could just be that I have read far too much crime fiction and I believe nobody and suspect everybody. I developed my own theories as to what was going to happen and so I had to keep reading to see if I was on the right track or if I had wandered off in the opposite direction. The more of the book that I read, the more I wanted to read and the quicker the pages seemed to turn. All too quickly I reached the end of 'Local Girl Missing'. I found 'Local Girl Missing' to be a gripping, intense and dramatic read. The story certainly kept me guessing and kept me on the edge of my seat.
'Local Girl Missing' is well written but then I have come to expect nothing less from J. A. Baker. She certainly knows how to grab the reader's attention and draw them into what proves to be one heck of a read. For me, the story hit the ground running and maintained a steady pace throughout. Reading 'Local Girl Missing' felt like being on an at times scary and unpredictable rollercoaster ride with several twists and turns along the way. I love the way in which J. A. Baker makes the reader feel as though they are part of the story and at the heart of the action.
In short and overall I did enjoy reading 'Local Girl Missing' and 'I would recommend it to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of J. A. Baker's work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 4* out of 5*.
I have to be honest and say that it took me a little while to get into 'Local Girl Missing' which has more to do with the fact that I was tired and finding it hard to concentrate than anything else. I can't say that I particularly warmed to the characters but that's not necessarily a bad thing. Of course it could just be that I have read far too much crime fiction and I believe nobody and suspect everybody. I developed my own theories as to what was going to happen and so I had to keep reading to see if I was on the right track or if I had wandered off in the opposite direction. The more of the book that I read, the more I wanted to read and the quicker the pages seemed to turn. All too quickly I reached the end of 'Local Girl Missing'. I found 'Local Girl Missing' to be a gripping, intense and dramatic read. The story certainly kept me guessing and kept me on the edge of my seat.
'Local Girl Missing' is well written but then I have come to expect nothing less from J. A. Baker. She certainly knows how to grab the reader's attention and draw them into what proves to be one heck of a read. For me, the story hit the ground running and maintained a steady pace throughout. Reading 'Local Girl Missing' felt like being on an at times scary and unpredictable rollercoaster ride with several twists and turns along the way. I love the way in which J. A. Baker makes the reader feel as though they are part of the story and at the heart of the action.
In short and overall I did enjoy reading 'Local Girl Missing' and 'I would recommend it to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of J. A. Baker's work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 4* out of 5*.
December 19, 2022
I love J.A. Baker's books and Local Girl Missing is no exception. It's so tense it's as taut as a bow string and I couldn't read it fast enough to discover who was behind Deborah's disappearance.
Deborah's colleagues are shocked and distressed when she disappears, but as worried as they are about Deborah, what shocks them just as much is that it could quite easily have been one of them instead. J.A. Baker puts each of the characters under the microscope as the reader delves beneath their skin to see who they really are.
Workplace rivalries and gossiping colleagues help to build up the tension as we get to know the characters and discover what each of them is hiding. If you work full-time, you spend more of your awake time with your colleagues than your family but you never really get to know them. We all have a work persona and it's only when you inadvertently let your guard down that your colleagues might catch a glimpse of the real you.
I can safely say that I did guess who the kidnapper was in Local Girl Missing but only because I suspected every single character at one time or another, so I would've been right at some point. Without giving anything away, I really enjoyed discovering the motivation behind Deborah's abduction; even though it's pretty creepy to think that someone you know could be hiding a very dark secret behind their friendly face.
J.A. Baker's writing is exceptional as she builds up suspense and creates so much suspicion about every character. The tension builds as the reader slowly peels away layer after layer of every character to see what's really underneath.
Tense, suspenseful and compelling, Local Girl Missing is another cracking J.A. Baker novel. I really enjoyed the workplace setting and think J.A. Baker totally nailed it. Recommended.
I received a digital ARC to read and review for the blog tour and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
Deborah's colleagues are shocked and distressed when she disappears, but as worried as they are about Deborah, what shocks them just as much is that it could quite easily have been one of them instead. J.A. Baker puts each of the characters under the microscope as the reader delves beneath their skin to see who they really are.
Workplace rivalries and gossiping colleagues help to build up the tension as we get to know the characters and discover what each of them is hiding. If you work full-time, you spend more of your awake time with your colleagues than your family but you never really get to know them. We all have a work persona and it's only when you inadvertently let your guard down that your colleagues might catch a glimpse of the real you.
I can safely say that I did guess who the kidnapper was in Local Girl Missing but only because I suspected every single character at one time or another, so I would've been right at some point. Without giving anything away, I really enjoyed discovering the motivation behind Deborah's abduction; even though it's pretty creepy to think that someone you know could be hiding a very dark secret behind their friendly face.
J.A. Baker's writing is exceptional as she builds up suspense and creates so much suspicion about every character. The tension builds as the reader slowly peels away layer after layer of every character to see what's really underneath.
Tense, suspenseful and compelling, Local Girl Missing is another cracking J.A. Baker novel. I really enjoyed the workplace setting and think J.A. Baker totally nailed it. Recommended.
I received a digital ARC to read and review for the blog tour and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.
December 2, 2022
3.5/5 stars (rounded up to 4 on here)
Thank you NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review!
When local woman Deborah goes missing, her colleagues Adrian, Yvonne and Merriel are all left in shock. Gossip around the office begins to swirl – what could have happened to Deborah? Is she dead or alive? And who could be responsible for her disappearance?
Everyone is terrified that they could be next…except the one person who has all the answers. The last person people expect.
Because Deborah is being held captive by a monster, a psychopath. But not a stranger… it’s someone she knows all too well…
*
So this book started off with a bang and really drew the readers into it. However, the further the book went along the slower the burn became. You follow different POV and I feel like that play a huge role in the slow burn of the book. At times it almost felt like there were too many perspectives that it became difficult keeping up with all the characters and becoming really invested in them. I did like learning about the different characters though and trying to figure out who the kidnapper was. The author does such a great job at keeping the reader interested and making you feel like you can’t trust anyone, even the people that you thought you could trust. Overall, I think that if you enjoy slow burns in thrillers then this is definitely one that you would enjoy.
Thank you NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review!
When local woman Deborah goes missing, her colleagues Adrian, Yvonne and Merriel are all left in shock. Gossip around the office begins to swirl – what could have happened to Deborah? Is she dead or alive? And who could be responsible for her disappearance?
Everyone is terrified that they could be next…except the one person who has all the answers. The last person people expect.
Because Deborah is being held captive by a monster, a psychopath. But not a stranger… it’s someone she knows all too well…
*
So this book started off with a bang and really drew the readers into it. However, the further the book went along the slower the burn became. You follow different POV and I feel like that play a huge role in the slow burn of the book. At times it almost felt like there were too many perspectives that it became difficult keeping up with all the characters and becoming really invested in them. I did like learning about the different characters though and trying to figure out who the kidnapper was. The author does such a great job at keeping the reader interested and making you feel like you can’t trust anyone, even the people that you thought you could trust. Overall, I think that if you enjoy slow burns in thrillers then this is definitely one that you would enjoy.
December 11, 2022
Local Girl Missing is such a brilliant thriller told using a very unique perspective to develop the story and the impact.
Most thrillers are told from a police procedural perspective with a small amount of insight into a few loved ones. Local Girl Missing develops the plot with a dual setting approach.
We are told the events of the kidnapping through the eyes of Deborah, the victim, and this is how the reader learns about what is happening to her. This perspective really gives a terrifying insight into her ordeal and is such a clever way to develop the story.
Dispersed between Deborah’s point of view are chapters from three of her work colleagues. This is a perspectives we rarely see in books. That wider impact of someone’s disappearance from their everyday lives, including work, is rarely explored and it was such a clever device.
There is also a past narrative running through the book which added to the build up of suspense and tension as I tried to piece together all the different aspects. Little tidbits (and some red herrings) are scattered throughout all the narratives and it all builds to an unexpected, and superb ending.
Local Girl Missing is such a unique take on an abduction mystery and is a tense and gripping novel. Highly recommended.
Most thrillers are told from a police procedural perspective with a small amount of insight into a few loved ones. Local Girl Missing develops the plot with a dual setting approach.
We are told the events of the kidnapping through the eyes of Deborah, the victim, and this is how the reader learns about what is happening to her. This perspective really gives a terrifying insight into her ordeal and is such a clever way to develop the story.
Dispersed between Deborah’s point of view are chapters from three of her work colleagues. This is a perspectives we rarely see in books. That wider impact of someone’s disappearance from their everyday lives, including work, is rarely explored and it was such a clever device.
There is also a past narrative running through the book which added to the build up of suspense and tension as I tried to piece together all the different aspects. Little tidbits (and some red herrings) are scattered throughout all the narratives and it all builds to an unexpected, and superb ending.
Local Girl Missing is such a unique take on an abduction mystery and is a tense and gripping novel. Highly recommended.
November 27, 2022
Local Girl Missing was a solid good read for me. 3.5 stars rated up! The book started off really good and then trickled into a slow burn. The ending was really good!
Deborah works in an office setting. She goes missing one day after work. Her colleagues from the office are Merriel, Adrian, Yvonne and Ruth. The story is told from evervone's perspectives. The colleague's portions of the stories are a mix of their personal lives, including some of their past and work experiences. There is also another story that is clearly the past of Sadie and her experiences growing up. With so many stories and perspectives going on at the same time, I found myself having to go back and reread several portions to make sure I was reading the right things. Throughout the whole story, I thought any of the characters could be the kidnapper. The author did a great job developing the characters and jumping from present to past. I thought this book had some twisty turns and suspense. It was a good psychological thriller.
I am so grateful to NetGalley, Boldwood Books and J.A. Baker for the Advanced Readers Copy of this book. I really enjoyed reading this book, which will be available on December 7th.
Deborah works in an office setting. She goes missing one day after work. Her colleagues from the office are Merriel, Adrian, Yvonne and Ruth. The story is told from evervone's perspectives. The colleague's portions of the stories are a mix of their personal lives, including some of their past and work experiences. There is also another story that is clearly the past of Sadie and her experiences growing up. With so many stories and perspectives going on at the same time, I found myself having to go back and reread several portions to make sure I was reading the right things. Throughout the whole story, I thought any of the characters could be the kidnapper. The author did a great job developing the characters and jumping from present to past. I thought this book had some twisty turns and suspense. It was a good psychological thriller.
I am so grateful to NetGalley, Boldwood Books and J.A. Baker for the Advanced Readers Copy of this book. I really enjoyed reading this book, which will be available on December 7th.
December 9, 2022
First, I want to thank J.A. Baker, Boldwood Books, NetGalley, and Rachel’s Random Resources for providing me with this book so I can bring you this review.
WOW!!!! WOW!! WOW!!! Local Girl Missing by J.A. Baker is my favorite book of 2022 and deserves way more than 5 stars!! Why do I think that you ask?! J.A. Writes her storyline like you are a fly on the wall watching Deborah being held hostage. Many scenes were so intense. If you are a fan of missing persons and true crime this is the book for you.
I was hooked right away from the prologue! From then on I was addicted!
J.A. You are an incredible storyteller! This was the first time I ever read any of your books and you just blew me away. You did an incredible job pulling out all the thoughts, feelings, and emotions Deborah was feeling when she was being captive. Your eye for detail with the descriptions made me feel like I was there. I must admit there were a few times when I couldn’t read it as my heart hurt too much for Deborah.
I loved the mystery of who in the world took Deborah and why were they torturing her this way?!
WOW!!!! WOW!! WOW!!! Local Girl Missing by J.A. Baker is my favorite book of 2022 and deserves way more than 5 stars!! Why do I think that you ask?! J.A. Writes her storyline like you are a fly on the wall watching Deborah being held hostage. Many scenes were so intense. If you are a fan of missing persons and true crime this is the book for you.
I was hooked right away from the prologue! From then on I was addicted!
J.A. You are an incredible storyteller! This was the first time I ever read any of your books and you just blew me away. You did an incredible job pulling out all the thoughts, feelings, and emotions Deborah was feeling when she was being captive. Your eye for detail with the descriptions made me feel like I was there. I must admit there were a few times when I couldn’t read it as my heart hurt too much for Deborah.
I loved the mystery of who in the world took Deborah and why were they torturing her this way?!
December 12, 2022
Local Girl Missing by J A Baker
When local woman Deborah goes missing, her colleagues Adrian, Yvonne and Merriel are all shocked. Gossip around the office begins to swirl – what could have happened to Deborah? Is she dead or alive? And who could be responsible for her disappearance?
Everyone is terrified that they could be next except the one person with all the answers. The last person people expect.
Because Deborah is being held captive by a monster, a psychopath. But not a stranger; it's someone she knows all too well.
Well, what can I say? Another fabulous thriller by Judith. Local Girl Missing is complex, dramatic and evocative; it's also distressing in parts. It is compelling, and you are encompassed in the plot from the first page.
An intricate combination of characters with a melange of personalities whose perspectives are portrayed in intermixed chapters.
If you fancy a gripping thriller, you can't do better than a story by J A Baker; I have read them all and look forward to seeing what comes next.
I want to thank publishers Boldwood Books, author J A Baker and Rachels Random Resources for a copy to read and review.
When local woman Deborah goes missing, her colleagues Adrian, Yvonne and Merriel are all shocked. Gossip around the office begins to swirl – what could have happened to Deborah? Is she dead or alive? And who could be responsible for her disappearance?
Everyone is terrified that they could be next except the one person with all the answers. The last person people expect.
Because Deborah is being held captive by a monster, a psychopath. But not a stranger; it's someone she knows all too well.
Well, what can I say? Another fabulous thriller by Judith. Local Girl Missing is complex, dramatic and evocative; it's also distressing in parts. It is compelling, and you are encompassed in the plot from the first page.
An intricate combination of characters with a melange of personalities whose perspectives are portrayed in intermixed chapters.
If you fancy a gripping thriller, you can't do better than a story by J A Baker; I have read them all and look forward to seeing what comes next.
I want to thank publishers Boldwood Books, author J A Baker and Rachels Random Resources for a copy to read and review.
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