Heather Gudenkauf | BEFORE SHE WAS FOUND

Plot (via Goodreads):

For twelve-year-old Cora Landry and her friends Violet and Jordyn, it was supposed to be an ordinary sleepover--movies and Ouija and talking about boys. But when they decide to sneak out to go to the abandoned rail yard on the outskirts of town, little do they know that their innocent games will have dangerous consequences.

Later that night, Cora Landry is discovered on the tracks, bloody and clinging to life, her friends nowhere to be found. Soon their small rural town is thrust into a maelstrom. Who would want to hurt a young girl like Cora--and why? In an investigation that leaves no stone unturned, everyone is a suspect and no one can be trusted--not even those closest to Cora.

Review:

So - Heather Gudenkauf is just one of the best authors if you want a thriller that has great domestic attributes that don't affect the pacing of the novel. Her previous novels have been jaw-dropping, engrossing reads that make you want to clear your schedule after reading the first chapter. When I read the synopsis to Before She Was Found, I was so anxious - this seemed to be the most dark and insane plot yet. I was not wrong.

Before She Was Found starts off with a haunting and rather ominous prologue that left me feeling excited and a little mentally unprepared for such an eerie plot. Combining the terror of manipulative teenage relationships with a brutal crime, confused and fearful parents, and the dangers of online relationships, this novel just really has it all. It is the perfect storm of a harrowing thriller that will grip you from the beginning, torment you throughout with its brilliant pacing, and leave you gasping for air the minute you complete the emotionally charged last page. One thing I absolutely loved with this novel was that Gudenkauf told her story using online forums, text messages, and a few other internet resources that really solidified this read and made it overall an even more enjoyable experience. Not only were the teenagers written with the best blend of angst, fearlessness, and naivety. The contrast between the teenagers with their adult parents is not only perfect, but believably executed and adds depth to the story. The character of Beth Crow was not only beyond my favorite character, but just made me so more more appreciative of everything my own mother has done for me. I don't know how you do it, Heather Gudenkauf - but I hope you continue for a long time. I love your writing, I love your stories, and I love your characters and their dynamics. You are the ultimate storyteller.

Special thanks to Park Row Books for this copy in exchange for my honest review.

Rating: 5/5