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What Comes After
Lorna’s been dead for three years and still isn’t over it.
Now she’s stuck in the afterlife churning through therapists while she mourns the family she left behind. When she meets Jackie, a recently murdered teen, Lorna slips back into a mothering role as naturally as if she were still alive.
But Jackie doesn’t want comfort. She wants revenge. Her killer is still free and worse, he’s found a new victim: Lorna’s own daughter.
With strict boundaries separating them from the mortal world, can Lorna and Jackie stop a ruthless murderer before he kills again?
Now she’s stuck in the afterlife churning through therapists while she mourns the family she left behind. When she meets Jackie, a recently murdered teen, Lorna slips back into a mothering role as naturally as if she were still alive.
But Jackie doesn’t want comfort. She wants revenge. Her killer is still free and worse, he’s found a new victim: Lorna’s own daughter.
With strict boundaries separating them from the mortal world, can Lorna and Jackie stop a ruthless murderer before he kills again?
242 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 25, 2022
205 people are currently reading
583 people want to read
About the author
Caren Hahn
19 books231 followersCAREN HAHN is an award-winning fantasy and suspense author best known for the Owl Creek, small town suspense series, and Hatched, a dragon adventure series. She discovered at a young age that the only thing more thrilling than reading fictional adventures was writing them herself, though it took the disruption from a global pandemic before she was driven to share her stories with the world.
Caren has a passion for writing intense stories without explicit content so they can be enjoyed by a wide audience. She lives with her family in the Pacific Northwest.
Caren has a passion for writing intense stories without explicit content so they can be enjoyed by a wide audience. She lives with her family in the Pacific Northwest.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
March 29, 2025
Rounding up from 4.5 stars
This is my first standalone by Caren Hahn. I enjoyed that while this book had everything you would expect from a psychological thriller, she also intertwined the afterlife as well. This was a refreshing take on the thrillers I typically read.
This is my first standalone by Caren Hahn. I enjoyed that while this book had everything you would expect from a psychological thriller, she also intertwined the afterlife as well. This was a refreshing take on the thrillers I typically read.
July 20, 2024
I’ve been sitting with this book for a bit - I joked that I would need therapy after I read it and I definitely needed to sit in my feelings.
This book largely takes place in the afterlife, and we get to know Lorna - a 30-something wife and mom of two who died of cancer, her afterlife-bestie Reif, and a freshly dead murdered teenager. In the afterlife you can revisit your memories or go to present-day life to see your loved ones; it’s an in-between place where you hang out until you’re ready to pass on. Oh, and there’s therapy which tickled me because it seems incongruous but also kind of delightful.
The three main characters are so different from one another, and as the mystery unfolds we get to know things about each of them that are relatable and touching. This book is poignant and heartbreaking and funny; the exploration of what the afterlife might be like was a fun journey. It raised so many questions in my mind, and healed small wounds I didn’t know I was still holding onto.
Caren Hahn’s books are so thought-provoking for me- whether it’s a suspense or a fantasy novel, she never fails to inspire hope and longing.
This book largely takes place in the afterlife, and we get to know Lorna - a 30-something wife and mom of two who died of cancer, her afterlife-bestie Reif, and a freshly dead murdered teenager. In the afterlife you can revisit your memories or go to present-day life to see your loved ones; it’s an in-between place where you hang out until you’re ready to pass on. Oh, and there’s therapy which tickled me because it seems incongruous but also kind of delightful.
The three main characters are so different from one another, and as the mystery unfolds we get to know things about each of them that are relatable and touching. This book is poignant and heartbreaking and funny; the exploration of what the afterlife might be like was a fun journey. It raised so many questions in my mind, and healed small wounds I didn’t know I was still holding onto.
Caren Hahn’s books are so thought-provoking for me- whether it’s a suspense or a fantasy novel, she never fails to inspire hope and longing.
November 10, 2025
I loved this book. The premise, the characters, the deep thoughts reading this invoked for me. Ahhh soooo good!!! Highly recommend!
January 3, 2026
Even though the concepts were vastly different, the feeling this book evoked reminded me of The Midnight Library. I loved the combination of mystery and self reflection!
October 14, 2022
This book is going to take you out of this world! It is so well written that you will find yourself in places you've never been, as you try to imagine, "What Comes After?" How do you help your loved ones who don't know you are there? How do you heal when you weren't ready to die? How would you feel if you're loved one started moving on? And how do you save your family from a killer? This is an amazing read that you will love! Don't hesitate to read today, life is short and turning pages is harder in the afterlife.
November 9, 2022
What an amazing mystery so well written so thought provoking. The characters are so vibrant and intriguing on their own each pulling you into their story and into an unexpected but wonderful mystery of what if into the world after the life we know. I started to read not knowing what to expect and found something more than I could have imagined. Three souls come together and through supporting one another find unexpected answers and a new hope for the future. Acquire " What Comes After " for hours of intriguing and enjoyable entertainment. Kat
December 15, 2022
Ooooh guys, this book!!! I just finished it and now I need to plan out how I'm going to un-clench every muscle in my body. It was soooo good!!!
The premise was absolutely intriguing, the plot gripping, and there were a surprising number of touching and really thought-provoking moments as well. I just loved it.
The premise was absolutely intriguing, the plot gripping, and there were a surprising number of touching and really thought-provoking moments as well. I just loved it.
October 18, 2024
An interesting take on a "who dunnit" however for 75% of the book it led nowhere and then everything sped up and got interesting for the last 25%.
Could have been less waffle and more focus on the crime earlier in the book to provide a faster pace.
Could have been less waffle and more focus on the crime earlier in the book to provide a faster pace.
August 5, 2023
Starts from the beginning and keeps going. I love books like this. Keeps my attention and makes me wanting more. Very well written. I will be reading more books from this Author.
July 20, 2023
A captivating, unforgettable tale of life after death. FIVE BRILLIANT STARS!
Wow! This captivating tale of life after death hooked me on page one and never let go. Like the author, I believe death is not the end of life, but simply a transition into something better. Although fictional, this story strengthened my belief in what comes after.
Here's a bit of the plot, but no big spoilers. Our heroine (Lorna) died of cancer three years ago and "transitioned" into the afterlife, leaving her husband and two young children behind. The afterlife is a pleasant place, where the residents are never hungry or tired, and they enjoy artificial seasons in this "strange and beautiful world." But the afterlife is just a temporary place for Lorna and her fellow residents, who can't "pass on" to something better (Heaven?) until they're able to let go of whatever is keeping them tied to their former lives on earth.
Lorna stays connected to her former life via the Memory Bank, where she can revisit episodes in her past, and through the Vision Station, where she can watch current activities of her husband and children. Her concern for their well-being is making it difficult for Lorna to let go. Our hero (Reif) transitioned into the afterlife six months ago and has formed a close friendship with Lorna, to the point where he's unwilling to pass on without her. (Yes, there's a sweet romance in this story, too.)
Nothing changes until a newly deceased teenage girl (Jackie) shows up in Arrivals with no friends or family to greet her, so Lorna introduces her to the afterlife and becomes her friend. Jackie has no interest in letting go and moving on, because she craves revenge against the unknown man who sexually assaulted and murdered her.
Reif--a writer of crime thrillers before his death--teams up with Lorna and Jackie in an effort to identify and locate the killer through Memories and Visions before he strikes again. But our three intrepid spirits are forbidden to reenter the real world, so how can they stop the murderer from killing his next intended victim--Lorna's own precious daughter? I'm not saying, but it's a thrilling endeavor!
Filled with immersive settings, memorable characters, and nail-biting suspense, this flawless story easily earns five brilliant stars and MY HIGHEST RECOMMENDATION!
Wow! This captivating tale of life after death hooked me on page one and never let go. Like the author, I believe death is not the end of life, but simply a transition into something better. Although fictional, this story strengthened my belief in what comes after.
Here's a bit of the plot, but no big spoilers. Our heroine (Lorna) died of cancer three years ago and "transitioned" into the afterlife, leaving her husband and two young children behind. The afterlife is a pleasant place, where the residents are never hungry or tired, and they enjoy artificial seasons in this "strange and beautiful world." But the afterlife is just a temporary place for Lorna and her fellow residents, who can't "pass on" to something better (Heaven?) until they're able to let go of whatever is keeping them tied to their former lives on earth.
Lorna stays connected to her former life via the Memory Bank, where she can revisit episodes in her past, and through the Vision Station, where she can watch current activities of her husband and children. Her concern for their well-being is making it difficult for Lorna to let go. Our hero (Reif) transitioned into the afterlife six months ago and has formed a close friendship with Lorna, to the point where he's unwilling to pass on without her. (Yes, there's a sweet romance in this story, too.)
Nothing changes until a newly deceased teenage girl (Jackie) shows up in Arrivals with no friends or family to greet her, so Lorna introduces her to the afterlife and becomes her friend. Jackie has no interest in letting go and moving on, because she craves revenge against the unknown man who sexually assaulted and murdered her.
Reif--a writer of crime thrillers before his death--teams up with Lorna and Jackie in an effort to identify and locate the killer through Memories and Visions before he strikes again. But our three intrepid spirits are forbidden to reenter the real world, so how can they stop the murderer from killing his next intended victim--Lorna's own precious daughter? I'm not saying, but it's a thrilling endeavor!
Filled with immersive settings, memorable characters, and nail-biting suspense, this flawless story easily earns five brilliant stars and MY HIGHEST RECOMMENDATION!
July 4, 2025
A hauntingly original twist on the afterlife meets true crime.
Lorna’s been dead for three years, but her story is just beginning. Stuck in the afterlife, grappling with unresolved grief and ghostly therapy sessions, Lorna’s world takes a sharp turn when she meets Jackie—a fierce, freshly murdered teen with unfinished business. Their unlikely bond quickly evolves from reluctant friendship to urgent mission when Jackie’s killer sets his sights on Lorna’s daughter.
This book blends emotional depth with eerie suspense, exploring themes of motherhood, justice, and what lingers after death. Lorna is a compelling, layered character—equal parts heartbroken and determined—and Jackie brings an edgy energy that keeps the plot sharp and unpredictable.
While the rules of the afterlife get a bit murky at times, the tension never falters. It’s a story that pulls you between two worlds, rooting you in a desperate fight for redemption and revenge.
A darkly clever, emotionally resonant supernatural thriller—perfect for fans of The Lovely Bones and The Sixth Sense.
Lorna’s been dead for three years, but her story is just beginning. Stuck in the afterlife, grappling with unresolved grief and ghostly therapy sessions, Lorna’s world takes a sharp turn when she meets Jackie—a fierce, freshly murdered teen with unfinished business. Their unlikely bond quickly evolves from reluctant friendship to urgent mission when Jackie’s killer sets his sights on Lorna’s daughter.
This book blends emotional depth with eerie suspense, exploring themes of motherhood, justice, and what lingers after death. Lorna is a compelling, layered character—equal parts heartbroken and determined—and Jackie brings an edgy energy that keeps the plot sharp and unpredictable.
While the rules of the afterlife get a bit murky at times, the tension never falters. It’s a story that pulls you between two worlds, rooting you in a desperate fight for redemption and revenge.
A darkly clever, emotionally resonant supernatural thriller—perfect for fans of The Lovely Bones and The Sixth Sense.
April 1, 2025
I was deeply moved by "What Comes After" by Caren Hahn. The exploration of the afterlife and the struggles of the characters, particularly Lorna, struck a chord with me due to a personal experience with a terminally ill friend. The concept of being stuck in between worlds until finding closure was both intriguing and thought-provoking.
The relationship between Lorna and Jackie was touching, as Lorna's maternal instincts resurfaced in the afterlife. The tension and urgency of trying to stop a killer from harming her own daughter added a thrilling element to the story.
However, I did feel that the ending of the book was a bit forced and unrealistic, which took away from the overall impact of the story. Despite this, I would still recommend "What Comes After" to those interested in exploring themes of grief, closure, and the afterlife. Overall, I give it a solid 4 stars.
The relationship between Lorna and Jackie was touching, as Lorna's maternal instincts resurfaced in the afterlife. The tension and urgency of trying to stop a killer from harming her own daughter added a thrilling element to the story.
However, I did feel that the ending of the book was a bit forced and unrealistic, which took away from the overall impact of the story. Despite this, I would still recommend "What Comes After" to those interested in exploring themes of grief, closure, and the afterlife. Overall, I give it a solid 4 stars.
September 10, 2025
This is a beautifully written story of living after you die before you get to heaven. It is very original, I have never read anything like it before. I loved these characters Lorna, Reif, and Jackie so much. They rely on the Memory Bank that lets them watch a time in their lives when they were alive, and the Vision Station that allows them to see the present. Jackie is a young teen girl who arrives with no greeter and Lorna befriends her. Jackie has been murdered and with Lorna and Reif's help, try to find out who her killer is. This book is about grief, redemption and the emotional journey moving forward. It is a moving story and suspenseful with shocking twists and turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat. You won't be able to put it down. It will definitely make you think about life after death and it will stay with you. A must read. 5 stars.
November 5, 2025
Thought Provoking
Unlike most books I see now where the characters are shallow and the main themes are sex or poorly written fantasy, this book was very thought provoking. The characters all had relatable flaws and merits, and their relationships built over the course of the story felt genuine. I actually teared up in a few places, which is rare for me. Reading from the POV of the main character made me really ruminating on my own family's experiences. I expected this story to be sad and dull, but it was the exact opposite. I recommend it to anyone who carries grief with them over the loss of a loved one. The new perspective and originally portrayed world had me wondering if what we perceive that comes after death might have more room for interpretation.
Unlike most books I see now where the characters are shallow and the main themes are sex or poorly written fantasy, this book was very thought provoking. The characters all had relatable flaws and merits, and their relationships built over the course of the story felt genuine. I actually teared up in a few places, which is rare for me. Reading from the POV of the main character made me really ruminating on my own family's experiences. I expected this story to be sad and dull, but it was the exact opposite. I recommend it to anyone who carries grief with them over the loss of a loved one. The new perspective and originally portrayed world had me wondering if what we perceive that comes after death might have more room for interpretation.
January 6, 2026
3.5 stars
I wouldn’t call this a thriller, suspense is even a bit of a stretch in my opinion, but I got something out of it I didn’t expect, a different view of death. My sister was killed by a drunk driver at 42 with two young kids 3 years ago. It’s been a terrible time trying to move forward but this book gave me a new perspective that brought tears to my eyes. Imagining my sister visiting me, viewing our memories together and finding peace was a balm I didn’t know I needed. Yes, there is a murder/mystery aspect but the fast paced part is just a few pages. The majority of this book is written calmly, peacefully while expressing frustrations by our main characters. An interesting view of death and beyond, I found this to be healing for my heart.
I wouldn’t call this a thriller, suspense is even a bit of a stretch in my opinion, but I got something out of it I didn’t expect, a different view of death. My sister was killed by a drunk driver at 42 with two young kids 3 years ago. It’s been a terrible time trying to move forward but this book gave me a new perspective that brought tears to my eyes. Imagining my sister visiting me, viewing our memories together and finding peace was a balm I didn’t know I needed. Yes, there is a murder/mystery aspect but the fast paced part is just a few pages. The majority of this book is written calmly, peacefully while expressing frustrations by our main characters. An interesting view of death and beyond, I found this to be healing for my heart.
September 1, 2025
I really enjoyed the build-up to Mindi’s kidnapping and thought the unique afterlife concepts—like the memory bank and vision car—were creative and engaging. Those details really pulled me in and kept me curious about where the story was going. The reveal that Jackie was from the same town as Lorna was a great gasp moment that added a nice twist.
That said, once Mindi was helped, the pacing felt rushed. The resolution came too quickly and lacked the depth and detail I was hoping for. I wish the ending had been given more time to develop, as the premise had so much potential.
That said, once Mindi was helped, the pacing felt rushed. The resolution came too quickly and lacked the depth and detail I was hoping for. I wish the ending had been given more time to develop, as the premise had so much potential.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 22, 2024
This book is beautifully written. It begins with amazing descriptions of a portion of the afterlife and a vision that was not what I was expecting. Lorna isn't ready to move on and leave her family, nor is her best friend in this world, Rief. But when Jackie comes crashing into their existence, she touches something that reminds them not of who they left this life as, but if who they once were.
Engaging and uplifting, this story will keep you guessing!
Engaging and uplifting, this story will keep you guessing!
April 6, 2025
What Comes After by Caren Hahn
Wow! What an amazing way to tell a story about after-life. I was introduced to Caren's novels when I read the Owl Creek series, also amazing. This was a totally different type of novel. It does not disappoint. I love Caren's presentation of where we find ourselves when we die, what it's like, and how we interact. It takes a great imagination and awesome writing style.
I loved the characters, the plot and the ending
Now to read another of her books❤️
Wow! What an amazing way to tell a story about after-life. I was introduced to Caren's novels when I read the Owl Creek series, also amazing. This was a totally different type of novel. It does not disappoint. I love Caren's presentation of where we find ourselves when we die, what it's like, and how we interact. It takes a great imagination and awesome writing style.
I loved the characters, the plot and the ending
Now to read another of her books❤️
August 1, 2023
I loved this book. It's the story of a woman stuck in the Afterlife, unable to leave her family and move on. And it turns into a murder mystery with her daughter targeted by a killer. It was a "can't stop reading" weekend, and I have no regrets. It depicts the Afterlife exactly as I've learned it to be.
September 13, 2023
This book threw me for a loop for a while. It is definitely different! I ended up liking it and there is a happy ending!! I really can't say too much or will give away the story. I will say it is about the place people go which is kind of a limbo before they go to heaven or that other place after they first pass away.
October 20, 2023
This book has been the perfect palate cleanser while still remaining in my favorite genre. Caren is an incredibly talented story teller and I loved this book so much.
It’s giving me “The Good Place” vibes with a splash of murder mystery. The characters are lovable and wholesome and the whodunit had me flipping the pages faster than my Kindle can handle.
It’s giving me “The Good Place” vibes with a splash of murder mystery. The characters are lovable and wholesome and the whodunit had me flipping the pages faster than my Kindle can handle.
November 25, 2023
Strange, but interesting
The characters were strong and they grew even stronger. The idea of a intermediate place was like a purgatory, they suffered but not a torture.
The violence was scary, the evil man was overwhelming. But the growth in all the other characters was inspiring.
The characters were strong and they grew even stronger. The idea of a intermediate place was like a purgatory, they suffered but not a torture.
The violence was scary, the evil man was overwhelming. But the growth in all the other characters was inspiring.
March 28, 2025
This was a fast paced thriller that combines vibes of “A Good Place” and a true crime documentary. The three main characters are put together to navigate grief and deepen their understanding of their own deaths and how it impacts loved ones they left behind. I read this in one day, it’s short and to the point, an amazing palate cleanser if needed.
March 29, 2025
This story was a mix of afterlife and thriller, where Lorna died and has lingered somewhere different... This part was thought-provoking and intriguing. As the story unfolds, the pace quickens while the atmosphere darkens...
I enjoyed the concept and the characters suited the plot - there was plenty to digest.
Overall, this was a well-written and engaging tale.
Highly recommended.
I enjoyed the concept and the characters suited the plot - there was plenty to digest.
Overall, this was a well-written and engaging tale.
Highly recommended.
July 23, 2023
This is about people who have died. It is a tale of life after death. Lorna has been here for 3 years and watches her family. Then Jackie comes after being murdered. And then there is Reif. GREAT BOOK
December 28, 2023
It is a compelling thriller that is very well written, full of mystery. I literally could not put the book down. The characters are fully fleshed out. I love the plot and premise of the book. The ending was well executed. I love her writing style
July 23, 2025
Amazing
Wow, I loved everything about this book. There was suspense, drama, despair and hope. I will be telling everyone to read this book. So very original, will be thinking about this one for a long time!
Wow, I loved everything about this book. There was suspense, drama, despair and hope. I will be telling everyone to read this book. So very original, will be thinking about this one for a long time!
August 27, 2025
3.5 ✨ This short psychological thriller focused on a unique version of the afterlife. Hence the title “What Comes After.” Although it was not as eventful as I expected, I thoroughly enjoyed the concept behind it and the intriguing connection between the main characters!
October 24, 2025
Unusual
I felt that was part what the three people were going through. I could not rest until they or we finally settled the problem. It felt like I could rest until every thing got settled. I am 85 years and some their questions I have too!
I felt that was part what the three people were going through. I could not rest until they or we finally settled the problem. It felt like I could rest until every thing got settled. I am 85 years and some their questions I have too!
December 18, 2025
Wow! I absolutely loved this book. I wasn't sure what to expect, but this was riveting. I had it finished in no time. I can't wait to read more of her books. I bought a few more that are in my TBR pile.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews