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50 pages 1 hour read

Before She Disappeared

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2021

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Book Brief

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Lisa Gardner

Before She Disappeared

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2021
Book Details
Pages

387

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Boston, Massachusetts • Contemporary

Publication Year

2021

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In Before She Disappeared by Lisa Gardner, amateur detective Frankie Elkin, who specializes in finding missing persons from marginalized communities, arrives in Boston’s Mattapan neighborhood to search for Angelique Badeau, a Haitian teenager who disappeared nearly a year earlier. Through her investigation, Frankie uncovers a complex web of secrets and dangers, ultimately confronting issues of invisibility and marginalization while seeking redemption for her past mistakes. The book discusses themes of racism, addiction, sexual violence, and violence involving children.

Suspenseful

Mysterious

Gritty

Emotional

Dark

Reviews & Readership

4.2

79,278 ratings

77%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Lisa Gardner's Before She Disappeared offers a gripping thriller featuring a determined protagonist, Frankie Elkin, who searches for missing persons. Its strong character development and intense plot have been praised. However, some readers find the pacing uneven and side characters underdeveloped. Overall, it’s a compelling read with some minor flaws.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Before She Disappeared?

A reader who enjoys Before She Disappeared by Lisa Gardner likely appreciates gripping thrillers with complex characters. Fans of Gillian Flynn's Gone Girl and Paula Hawkins' The Girl on the Train will find Gardner's novel equally compelling, with its strong, flawed protagonist and intricate mystery.

4.2

79,278 ratings

77%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Character List

Frankie Elkin

A 50-year-old woman in recovery from alcohol addiction, who travels to different places to help find missing persons, all while struggling with her personal past regrets.

A missing teenage girl whose disappearance is central to the narrative, known for her determined and practical mindset amidst difficult circumstances.

Angelique’s younger brother who plays a key role in the search for his sister, using clues she left behind to aid in her discovery.

A dedicated and empathetic law enforcement officer who works on Angelique's case and represents a more compassionate approach to policing.

Frankie's former boyfriend and AA sponsor, who significantly influences her personal journey and her commitment to helping others.

A technically skilled young woman from a challenging background, whose disappearance becomes part of the broader investigation.

Livia's older brother with a criminal past, whose love for his family conflicts with the illegal activities that put them at risk.

Livia's older brother known for his family loyalty, who becomes involved in illegal activities to support his family and seeks revenge for his sister's death.

Book Details
Pages

387

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Boston, Massachusetts • Contemporary

Publication Year

2021

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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