Little Girl Vanished

DGS is the mystery QUEEN! At no point in this book did I know where it was going, and, as usual, she didn’t disappoint! I only have three parting words. JAMES. FREAKING. MALCOLM. 😍

Bad Detective? Bad Private Investigator? This is absolutely one of those tales that brings the "Bad Teacher" / "Bad Judge" trope into criminal investigations, and it also uses a seemingly currently common approach (I literally read two different books using it back to back) of having the investigator have a similar unresolved crime in their past as a "hook". And yes, it actually all does combine quite well. Even for those who are, like me, more prone to protest police shootings than support them, this tale actually shows a bit of a human side to police who shoot people. Though in this case, even the way *that* is portrayed is perhaps the most singular unrealistic thing about this book. Still, Swank uses even that to help build her overall lore here, as in any series starter building in hints of a bigger lore is absolutely essential in keeping readers wanting the next book. So overall, the book does both of its jobs quite well - it both establishes the character and world, and provides readers enough motivation to come back for Book 2. Very much recommended.

A sublime five-star read. This shows us that there we are going to have a great new series to get to grips within the Harper Adams mystery series, it was just sublime to see James Malcom back, and with his usual charming bite. Harper Adams is a real character, one that you can feel under your skin, you can’t help but want to get to know her better, see her get the justice she deserves. This is a compelling story, not just the Ava aspect, of will she be found in time and who really has her, and wow that was a twisteroonie. This story is well done, as it has everything you need to keep you hooked and gives you a really thrilling read.

A twisty, dark whodunit that serves up a lost heroine, a misguided hero and a missing child. Our heroine has lost her way after getting railroaded out if her previous job. She got into law enforcement because of her sister, who was a missing and then found murdered and raped little girl and she wanted to rid the world of some of the evil in it, she just ended up caught in some of it. She came home to lick her wounds, and drink herself to oblivion when the daughter of an old friend comes up missing in circumstances very similar to those of her sister. The friend asks for her help, and against her better instincts, she agrees. She begins to learn some of her hometowns darker secrets and becomes a target of the same police chief she feels bungled her sister's case. Lots of plot twists and misdirection, all leading to a very dark ending but a happy one for her friend. A really good read!

The story revolves around Harper, who is a disgraced detective who embarks on a mission to find a missing girl upon her return to her hometown. Teaming up with the enigmatic James Malcolm adds a layer of complexity to the story. Their unlikely alliance creates a dynamic and engaging partnership as they delve deeper into the investigation. How I missed James Malcolm!

What initially appears to be a slow-paced start soon evolves into an incredible read as the plot thickens and the mystery deepens. Denise Grover Swank skillfully weaves a web of suspense, keeping readers on the edge of their seats and constantly guessing the next twist and turn.

Little Girl Vanished is an incredible read that will leave you eagerly turning the pages, yearning for answers, and emotionally invested in the characters' journey. If you love James Malcolm and want to know more about him, check out the Rose Gardner series.

How is it that Denise Grover Swank's books get better and better and I just keep falling in love with her all of them! She has out done herself with the Harper Adam's series and has given us another bada$$ female to admire. Harper is back in her hometown after being released of her duties as a detective at the Little Rock Police Department. Now she is faced with her parents and the town where everyone looks at her strangely due to the fact her sister was kidnapped while outside with her one day when they were younger. Now she's back and what is she suppose to do...she has no idea until her missing sister's best friend, Vanessa's daughter goes missing. And the only person Vanessa trust to help find her is Harper. All of this is too familiar and a lot of shady people begin to come out. Especially, James Malcolm, better known as, Malcolm. His past with law enforcement is just as tainted as Harper's so wouldn't it make sense for the two of them to team up. However, they seem to be more oil and vinegar then partners. But can they make it work long enough to save a little girl who just seemed to vanish?

Little Girl Vanished is the captivating first installment in the Harper Adams Mystery series by Denise Grover Swank. With its gripping narrative and well-drawn characters, this thrilling mystery novel keeps readers on the edge of their seats from beginning to end.

The story revolves around Harper Adams, a former FBI profiler who returns to her hometown of Lebanon, Tennessee, after the tragic death of her husband. Trying to rebuild her life, Harper finds herself thrust into a horrifying case when a young girl goes missing. As she delves into the investigation, Harper realizes that this kidnapping is not an isolated incident, and she uncovers a web of secrets and hidden connections that run deep within her community.

Denise Grover Swank expertly crafts a suspenseful plot, filled with unexpected twists and turns that will keep readers guessing until the final pages. The pacing is well-balanced, maintaining a steady rhythm that builds tension throughout the story. The author skillfully incorporates elements of psychological profiling and police procedure, adding depth and authenticity to the investigation.

Harper Adams is a complex and relatable protagonist. Her strength and vulnerability make her a compelling character, and readers will root for her as she battles personal demons while fighting for justice. The supporting cast is equally well-developed, each bringing their own unique dynamics to the story.

One of the highlights of this novel is Swank's ability to capture the atmosphere of a small town. Lebanon, Tennessee, comes alive through vivid descriptions, creating a strong sense of place and enhancing the overall reading experience. The author also tackles important themes such as grief, resilience, and the dark underbelly that can lurk beneath the surface of seemingly ordinary communities.

While Little Girl Vanished is a highly engaging read, there are moments where the pacing slows down, and the story becomes slightly predictable. However, the strength of the characters and the intriguing plot compensate for these minor shortcomings.

In conclusion, Little Girl Vanished is a riveting mystery that combines suspense, emotion, and well-crafted storytelling. Denise Grover Swank has crafted an impressive series opener that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next installment. If you enjoy thrilling mysteries with compelling characters and a small-town setting, this book is definitely worth picking up.

Thank you to NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for the Arc in exchange of an honest review.

This is the first book I read of this author and it won't be the last. It kept me all night reading as I wanted to know who did what to who. 🤣

Detective Harper's sister was kidnapped and murdered decades ago but history is repeating when the best friends daughter is disappeared. Harper is on the lookout and it's not easy when so many people are lying or blaming her. I didn't see it coming at all!! I would have bet I knew what the plot was going to be but I was so wrong.. it was a really enjoyable read and I'm impatient to read more of this author

Fantastic start to a new series! Harper is a former detective who was being set up and gas lit by her former department. When she is asked to find a former friend's daughter, she quickly learns that her tormentor has followed her to her home town.

She soon meets James Malcolm, who fans of the author will recognize from another series. I loved seeing him in this book and how he's changed since then.

I literally couldn't put this book down and read it in an afternoon. This one is a must read for fans of the genre. The author is on my must read authors' list and I'm already looking forward to the next book in the series. I'd give this more than 5 stars if I could.

She was a detective after killing a person, her partner and plus turned on her.
A stellar career of 14 years, now with doubts from herself and the police deptarment who didnt believe her.
Her mother's words shocked her, another kidnapping. The mother had been her deceased sister, best friend, when she had been taken. Now it's her daughter..Her mother never could understand why she had choose this career.
I liked this book it felt real of what the mother and daughter thought.
Her instint and training are needed. Start of a new series and looking forward to more by the author.
Given ARC by Net Galley and BooksGoSocial for my voluntary review

This was my first read by this author and I was truly impressed. It felt as though I was watching one of my favorite crime shows. It was very thorough with the investigation and hard to believe this happened over a few days time span. There were times the monologue kind of dragged out with the investigation. There were so many players and questions but you become invested to figuring out who Harper's stalker is and who took Ava and why. I will definitely read more of this series.

Little Girl Vanished, the newest book and series from Denise Grover Swank is incredible! I’m so obsessed with this new world that Denise has created, including our real and dynamic heroine, Harper Adams. When Harper returns home, there are some eerie similarities between her sisters kidnapping and murder back during her childhood, and a little girl who is currently missing in her hometown in Arkansas. This book definitely exceeded my expectations with a suspenseful mystery and amazing twist! I am so glad to see some familiar faces in both James Malcom and Carter Hale. I’m happy they’re back and cannot wait for more! The characters, dialogue, and mystery make this one a page turner for sure. Denise Grover Swank never disappoints! I highly recommend this author and new series!

I absolutely could NOT put this book down! Loved the pace! Harper moves home after being accused of killing an unarmed kid and resigning from the department. She isn’t home long before a young girl is kidnapped and she is drawn in to the investigation. Fans of suspense will LOVE this one!

The first in a new series with protagonist Harper Adams. Harper was a cop in Little Rock, but after a shooting gone wrong, she is out of a job. She moves back home to a small town in Arkansas to her parents’ house. A few weeks after being back, a young girl is kidnapped. This brings bad memories for Harper as twenty-ish years earlier her own sister was kidnapped and murdered. Harper is asked by the mom to investigate because she knows it’s not just a runaway situation. As she investigates, she finds connections to her sister’s murder and a culprit who is playing games with her.

This was a really good debut for a series! Sometimes, with new series, the first book or two struggle to find their footing. However, that is not the case here! The author created a protagonist with flaws but that you still can connect with. There was also great pacing and clues. I’m really intrigued to see where Harper’s mysteries take her next. I look forward to more in this series!

I received my copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

The first book I have read from this author. A solid four star read. Great premise. Well written. Good characters. Page turner. Plenty of suspense to keep me guessing. I wouldI definitely would read the next novel. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the chance to review it.

Thank you NetGalley for the ARC of Little Girl Vanished by Denise Grover Swank that I read and reviewed.
I was hooked on this book from the start and I can honestly say I did not put it down. I sat and read it from start to finish in one sitting it was that good. Harper Adams was one of those characters that was not perfect and she was flawed enough that just about anyone could relate to her.
In this book she finds herself in a situation that hits very close to home, a child is missing and it reminds her a lot of her sisters kidnapping that happened twenty some years earlier and ended in her death. Harper feels like the police botched her sisters case and are not doing enough to save her friends child so she gets involved in this case and uncovers more then she wants to know about her town, her sister’s disappearance years before and the people around her.
This book kept me up for hour reading it and trying to guess who was behind everything. I loved it from the start and I loved it even more when I finished it. I can’t wait until the next Harper Adams book comes out next year. I think I have a new female hero to add to my list of favorites list along with the like of Josie Quinn. Harper Adams is a star in the making.
Little Girl Vanished gets five out of five stars from me.

This is my first book by this author. But it’s has been a great introduction.
A strong willed but damaged female due to a past trauma is how to describe the main protagonist, Harper Adams. Yes, this is a common description in police procedural novels but this is a great character, flaws and all, and this book is a brilliant introduction to a new series.
Well written, a good thought out plot and substance to create a backstory to a future series makes this an excellent book one.

Discovering a new author with a great backlist is like winning the jackpot. That’s what it was like for me when I discovered Denise Grover Swank this past year. I quickly became a huge fan girl of the Rose Gardner series and especially of James Malcolm. I admit to a bit of ugly crying in the last book. If you’ve read them then you know what I mean.

When I heard there was a new series coming out featuring James in it, I was ecstatic! Little Girl Vanished is the first book in a new series featuring disgraced Little Rock cop, Harper Adams. Harper has returned home to Jackson Creek, Arkansas to lick her wounds and drink her problems away. She hasn’t felt welcome in her home since her younger sister was kidnapped and murdered twenty-one years ago while in her care. She's felt guilty about it ever since.

Soon after her arrival, another little girl goes missing and the disappearance is eerily similar to her sister’s kidnapping. Strangely the girl is the daughter of her sister’s former best friend who asks her to find her daughter.

While investigating she meets the former crime lord, James Malcolm, who spent four years in prison and is now running a bar in her hometown. They don’t hit it off very well at first, but soon join forces, somewhat regrettably to both, to find the missing girl.

I enjoyed this story so much. Harper was the perfect jaded cop, a tough lady on the surface with a dry sense of humor and a strong resolve to find this child. James was his usual outstanding soft-spoken self until he’s very angry and then pulling a couple of moves that left Harper nearly speechless.

This book was full of unbelievable twists and turns. Just when I thought I figured out who the bad guys were, it would do a total three-sixty. I am very eagerly awaiting the next book in the series, Long Gone.

Thank you to NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my honest opinion. I gave this book five fabulous stars!

I devoured this book… I read it cover to cover in one sitting, and I am completely blown away, and I cannot wait to see what happens with these characters!

While, this is my first book from this author it will definitely not be my last, and I am excited to see where the series takes me

First book I've read by this author, and it is also the first in a new series. I have to say I really enjoyed it - great character development, good plot and I liked the writing style. I'm really looking forward to seeing Harpers growth as a character as the series progresses.

Thank you #netgalley and #booksgosocial for the eARC.

I'm an avid reader who somehow has never read a book by Denise Grover Swank. A friend in my reading circle recommended LITTLE GIRL VANISHED and now I have a new author with an extensive back library to read. Ms Swank has done an excellent job of building complex characters and giving them lives they have to struggle through. Harper Adams finds herself living a life she could have never foreseen, yet strangely not too unhappy with it. When circumstances push her into helping with the investigation of a little girl missing, we meet (those of us who never read any of her books before meet) a character from another Grover Swank series who seems to have a story line of his own. The story is very good, the chracters very memorable and the fact that it's the first in a new series, an added plus. I'm pretty happy that my friend recommended this book to me. Now I'm recommending it to you. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

Harper Adams was a detective but lost her job due to outrage and corruption following the shooting of a teenager.
She moved home, unsure of her future, and her late sister's best friends daughter is kidnapped.
Harper's sister was kidnapped and killed twenty years before and the police bungled the case. It seems like the same thing is happening all over again. Are the cases connected? Why does the father and the police insist that the child is a runaway?
Harper is doing her own investigation, with the help of James Malcolm, a former crime boss.

An excellent book, my first by this author, and I am happy to have been chose to read it.
Full of suspense and although it started slightly slow for me, from the middle of the book, it was just action and twists!
I like Harper, she carries a lot of guilt because of her sisters' abduction, and her mother blames her for not acting when her sister was grabbed.
Her problems since then have caused her to drink too much, and I hope she beats the alcoholism, and realises it is a crutch that she doesn't need.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.

Man oh man! I'm not big on books about cops but this one was pretty darn good. I can't wait for the next one to come out.

Swank did it! This book had me hooked from the beginning! I couldn't put it down because I wanted to see the outcome! I had to charge my kindle and read in low light not to wake my family so that I could get the answers! Great read!

Overall rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Putdown rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I love a good detective book even if Harper is a ex detective. Harper is such a interesting character who you just love and sometimes feel a little sorry for. During the book I had many wishes for her I felt that connected to her. Im hoping some will come true in the next books. Malcom is my favourite kind of character dark mysterious bad. They both work well together and I hope they continue to work together.
This is book was a crazy ride i actually thought I had it all worked out but nope I was soooooo wrong which is my favourite thing about a thriller. The guessing the twists the turns it kept me pulling me back in. I would definitely recommend for any crime mystery thriller lovers out there.

"Little Girl Vanished" by Denise Grover Swank is a gripping and intense novel that captivates readers from the beginning. The story is about a mother, Jadyn, who is searching for her missing daughter, Hayley. Set in a small southern town, the novel offers intrigue and suspense as Jadyn tries to uncover the truth behind her daughter's disappearance.

The author presents various characters who all seem to have something to hide, making it difficult for Jadyn to find answers. Swank expertly offers twists and turns that leave readers hooked throughout the novel.

The writing style in "Little Girl Vanished" is fast-paced and compelling, creating a sense of urgency that propels readers through the plot. The book's characters are well-defined, presenting an array of personalities and motives that lead readers to question who might be responsible for the young girl's disappearance.

Overall, "Little Girl Vanished" is a fantastic thriller that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. With a complex plot and intriguing characters, it is a must-read for anyone who enjoys suspense and mystery novels. Swank's writing style is brilliant, creating an atmospheric and thrilling read from start to finish.

Little Girl Vanished will have you turning the pages so fast flying threw the story and then throwing up your hands when you reach the end begging for the next book to be out already.

Harper Adams is beyond struggling; she’s in a raw and emotional state that leaves you feeling sympathetic. Harper is begrudgingly back home after her life in Little Rock fell apart- she’s no longer a detective and everyone turned their backs on her trying to tell her she didn’t see what she knows she saw. When a little girl goes missing and the disappearance is strangely similar to her sister’s kidnapping and death begin to arise- the past come barreling back at Harper and help comes from an unlikely source leaving her with two choice. Team up with a known criminal and try to find the missing girl or continue to drown her sorrows in a bottle and stay stuck.

I’m already desperate for the next book in this series because I have so many questions and I need answers. I want to know more about Harper and what happened in Little Rock and more about James and his past and if the town is gonna be big enough for the two of them.

Blown away! This story drew me in from the first page and I couldn't stop until I finished it. It will take you on a journey with a strong female lead guiding you through the twists and turns. This is my first by this author and it won't be the last!

This is the way to start a new series! Action packed, full of suspense and twists, I couldn't put this book down. Harper is a complex character and I am excited to watch her develop. James is intriguing. The mystery keeps you guessing. I can't wait for the next one!

Little Girl Vanished by Denise Grover Swank is one of those books that grabs you right from the get-go and refuses to let you go! Superbly written and full of action and suspense, this mystery is the page-turner you are looking for this summer!
The main character of disgraced, ex-detective Harper Adams is delightfully flawed and struggling, and yet able to rise above her challenges to investigate the kidnapping of a friend's daughter, even when the police and father insist she has just run away. Harper's back story is both heartbreaking and full of mystery itself, and I hope the story behind her obvious framing at the hands of her former police department is explained in future books. She is not the only character broken by the kidnapping of her own sister years before, and the fallout is skillfully portrayed in the characters of her parents.
I have never read anything by this author before, but apparently the character of James Malcolm is a carry over from another series of hers, and I'm sure that fans will be delighted to encounter him again. For those of us new to the author, his character is tantalizingly multi-faceted and fascinating.
I could not put this book down and highly recommend it to fans of mystery and thrillers.
I was thrilled to receive an ARC of #LittleGirlVanished from #NetGalley .

Red herrings and surprises keep this story moving quickly. Third person narration makes it an easy read. Realistic characters kept me intrigued. This talented author has written a page turner. This book was sent to me electronically by Netgalley for review. Thanks to the publisher and the gifted author. Murder and kidnapping are at the center of this story. T reads like real crime. The language does not add to the plot.

Good book! This book had a bit of everything! It had suspense, intrigue, Kidnapping, murder, mystery, revenge, A great who done it, great police work and some really crazy twists and turns that i did not see coming! The storyline was very interesting and kept me glued to my Kindle! I definitely recommend reading this book as it was well worth reading! Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for sharing this book with me!

This is the first in a new series by Denise Grover Swank and it is fantastic!! I am a long time reader of DGS because she doesn’t disappoint.
This series stars Harper Adams, former police officer who’s forced to leave her job and return to her parents’ home. She finds herself working a case for a childhood friend when their daughter goes missing.
Harper is a flawed character. She’s struggling to come to terms with her distant and recent past. She’s struggling with the realization that those she trusted to have her back turned on her and she’s struggling alcohol.
Enter James Malcolm, anti-hero and one of DGS’ most popular characters from her Rose Gardner series makes his reappearance in this book. And, from the beginning you realize there is more to the man.
I was very excited when this series was announced. DGS is in her element when writing mysteries. She knows that the story is is more than the mystery, it is the characters. They are well rounded, flaws and all. The relationships are complex and draw the reader into the story. She ties up the mystery, but there are always “eggs” and strings that might need a little tug to unravel that one unanswered question.
I would highly recommend this book to everyone. The fact that some of the characters were in another series shouldn’t deter anyone from reading this book. DGS gives enough of their histories to fill in the gaps.
I’d like to thank both NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC of this book I was given in exchange for a fair and honest review.

OMG what a great ride!! I am abscessed with Denise Grover Swank. If she writes it I will be reading it. This was another quick and entreating read. I finished it a day because I could not put it down. I can't wait to see where this series takes me next. The characters were well written and just left me wanting more. HIGHLY Recommend this book.


Thank you NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for allowing me to read this ARC for my honest opinion.

A great start to the Harper Adams Mystery Series! I will be watching for the next book to come out. Great amount of characters and suspense. Thanks to NetGalley for the privilege to read and review this book.

Little Girl Vanished is the first book in a new series introducing Little Rock cop, Harper Adams. Harper, unfortunately is a disgraced cop and has returned home to Jackson Creek, Arkansas to lick her wounds and drink her problems away. Home really isn’t a sanctuary for her ever since she left after her younger sister was kidnapped and murdered twenty-one years ago while in her care. She's always felt her sister’s death was her fault, and sadly she’s not the only one with these feelings.

Oddly, very soon after her arrival, another little girl goes missing and the disappearance is strangely similar to her sister’s kidnapping. The presence of the eerie red ribbon a big factor especially since this fact was never shared publicly. Even stranger, the missing girl is the daughter of her sister’s former best friend. Now Harper is on a mission to find this girl, alive, which may offer a bit of exoneration to her for the death of her sister.
But Harper no longer has authority to investigate and tread where she isn’t welcome in the least by the official authorities. Does this stop Harper, oh no, but she does try to be a little discreet as she conducts her unofficial investigation. Also she is sure the local police will just botch everything up again as they did in her sister’s case. The cops are not even treating the missing girl as being kidnapped even though there is good evidence leading to that theory. They claim she’s a runaway and are just sitting around waiting for the girl to return home, losing precious time to get her back alive.

While conducting her somewhat covert investigation, she meets the former crime lord, James Malcolm, who spent four years in prison and is now running a bar in her hometown. Harper has become quite fond of bars and the liquid they serve as it has become increasingly hard to get buzz while living under the scrutinizing eye of her disapproving mother. The two don’t hit it off very well at first, but soon join forces, somewhat regrettably to both, to find the missing girl.

Harper was the perfect jaded cop, a tough lady on the surface, even though this reader didn’t find her very likable. I did admire her strong resolve to find this child. James was calm and soft-spoken until he’s angered setting off a couple of moves that left Harper nearly speechless.

I became weary of the story about 3/4 of the way into the book, but the twists and turns kept me reading to the end. Fans of this first Harper Adams saga will await the publication of Long Gone

Accused of shooting an unarmed man, Harper Adams a feisty, ex detective is back in her home town, a place she swore she would never return. There are no happy memories for Harper. She’s just trying to survive. But then she receives word that a little girl is missing, which bring back the terrible time when her sister went missing. Harper has to find her. This book was excellent. A great mystery, with red herrings and a neat mystery all tied up in a red ribbon. I received an arc from Netgalley and BooksGoSocial. My comments and review are my honest opinion and I look forward to the next book in this new series.

This book was unputdownable! Harper roots us in this story and gives the reader a dynamic and unpredictable main character to follow. If you like mysteries/thrillers with a strong, but perfectly unperfect lead woman than this is for you! There were some things I felt could have been explored more or some aspects given more time in the spotlight, but even saying that it was still a 4 out of 5 stars for me! Will definitely be looking out for more from Denise Grover Swank!

This is the first book I’ve read by Denise Grover swanks and it won’t be the last. I loved getting to know disgraced detective harper. Her old friends daughter goes missing and similarities arise to her younger sisters kidnapping and murder. She steps on toes and does what she can to help find Ava. It’s a great starting to a series and I can’t wait to find out more about harpers relationship with her parents and the ally’s she has made in this investigation! Roll on January 2024!

This book is full of suspense, and it grabs the reader from the first page. Harper is a strong lead. Characters are well-developed and relatable. There are several twists and turns to keep the reader engaged and guessing. Little Girl Vanished is a thrilling start to the series, and I look forward to the next installment.

I absolutely love, Denise Grover Swanks books, I have read more of her books than anyone else's!
This is a new series that I'm very excited about. A character that many loved in her long Rose series is a character in her Brand New series here.
You do not want to miss out on this new book! It's every bit as good as I thought it would be!
I cannot wait for the next one!
Good job, Denise! I truly enjoyed it!

Thank you so much, NetGalley, Denise Grover Swank, and your Publisher for giving me the opportunity to read and review this wonderful book!

Rating: 4 stars ⭐️

I was soo invested and really liked the suspense! 🔍

This new series from Denise Grover Swank is definitely worth the read and will get you hooked from the start!

It starts with Harper Adams, she was a Police detective until there was a deadly incident that ruined her life.

She moved back to her hometown and got a call that someone’s daughter that she knew from the past was kidnapped, just like her sister, 20 years ago..

This is the first book I've read from this author but I'm excited to try more!

Please be aware that Little Girl Vanished contains sensitive subjects and topics. (grief, death of a child, alcoholism)

Thank you to Netgalley, Denise Grover Swank and the publisher for providing me with this copy. All opinions are my own.

Thank you to NetGalley for allowing me to read and review Little Girl Vanished by Denise Grover Swank. I really enjoyed this book. I like that the main character is strong but still flawed. I think it might have been a bit over the top in regards to police incompetence but that might be just my own experience. I liked the twist at the end.

Little Girl Vanished is a brilliantly written story. I found it impossible to put down. The story focuses on Harper. A disgraced ex detective who is forced to return home to Arkansas. She had a troubling past. Her sister was killed as a child. Now back home. There's a chilling case of 'deja-vu' when a young girl goes missing. She feels she has to investigate. Enlisting the help of a former crime boss (who clearly hate eachother) to try and "crack the case" that seems a little too close to home.

Thank you NetGalley for the eARC Little Girl Vanished. This was a slow burn but once it got going it was a really good story. I hope this turns into a series. Definitely keeping an eye on that.

I really enjoyed this book! I like the ending and I wasn't sure how it was gonna end, which I liked. I would reccomend this book to anyone who enjoys mysteries or thrillers. 10/10 Highly recommend! Special Thank You to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for allowing to read a copy free of charge in exchange for a review.

My Rating: 🌕🌕🌕🌕🌗

This is the first book in the Harper Adams Mystery series.

When Harper Adams is thrown off the police force for a crime she did not commit, she is forced back to her parents' house with no job and no money. Suddenly she is forced into the nightmares of her past, that she has been trying to escape for twenty years. When a little girl is kidnapped in the town she grew up in, she's suddenly thrown back to the days when her little sister was kidnapped and her murdered body turned up a few days later. But this should not be her problem any more, or should it? Should she bury her sorrows in bottles of booze, or should she try to find some closure to her past and also reclaim some of her reputation back?

This book was so well paced, it kept me turning the pages without any effort at all. It was interesting from the very beginning. I loved how the story was more plot-based than just being character-based. The character development was really good, but I found the plot to be more intriguing. The character of Harper was developed well as the story progressed. I also liked the development of the side characters. This is a clean murder mystery, and the twists till the end kept me guessing the kidnapper. Overall, it was really well written and kept me glued to its pages.

I would like to thank Netgalley and the author for this gifted copy in return for my honest review. I'm really thankful for this amazing story and I am looking forward to reading many more books from this author, especially the next books in this series. I recommend this book to all lovers of mystery and murders.

Little Girl Vanished by Denise Grover Swank is a captivating mystery. Harper Adams is a force to be reckoned with and I look forward to Long Gone.

Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Sanctum is a thriller Mystery

Rating: 4.5 stars

Synopsis: Harper Adams, a detective in LRPD, was forced out when she shot and killed a kid even though the kid shot at her first. The responding officers say there was no gun found on the kid. She also experiences a string of break-ins before she goes home with her tail between her legs while spiraling with alcohol. However, she learns that her sister's old friend, Vanessa's, daughter has disappeared. When she looks around the crime scene she locates a red ribbon that connects to her sister's abduction and murder. She goes down the rabbit hole to find Vanessa's daughter before it's too late. I can not wait for the next book in the series!

This book was so great and I kept double guessing myself about who took the girl, and whether or not Harper was losing it. I kept trying to figure it out, and I still didn't guess correctly by the end! I could not put this book down!


Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Little Girl Vanished by Denise Grover Swank
Publisher: BooksGoSocial
Release Date June 20, 2023

Characters: 5/5
Plot: 5/5
Pace: 5/5
Suspense: 5/5
Overall Enjoyment: 5/5

Let me make one thing clear about this book, I love it. I love it more than my husband and almost more than my children. If it brought me the remote, I would love it more than my children. Swank is one of the best writers out there that also has the ability to tell a great story with women as the heroine protagonist.
Harper Adams was once a detective but was disgraced by her partner. Now having to move back to the one place she doesn’t want to go back to… Jackson Creek Arkansas. Adams seems content after losing her job, home and now
her reputation. But going home is not the worst thing to happen to her just yet.
When Adams learns of a missing young girl, she sets out to find her along with an unlikely partner, James Malcolm. This missing girl case is eerily similar to when Adams and her sister were together and her sister went missing. The town blamed Adams as if she had something to do with her disappearance. Can Adams find the missing girl in time?

This is a fast paced, heart pounding thriller that brings new life into this amazing thriller. I can not say enough about what a terrific writer Swank is and how her books just get better and better. The characters are heroic, amazingly developed, flawed and likable. You will not predict anything here. So hurry up and get your copy. The thrill ride is waiting.


5 stars

Thank you to NetGalley as well as the author and publisher for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for my unbiased and honest review.

I loved this book. There was a great storyline with lots of tense moments but I think it was the characterisation that really appealed to me. Harper and her friend Louise. TJ, the odious father of the missing girl. The dodgy but appealing James Malcolm. Every one of these characters were described so vividly that I almost knew what they were going to say next. I can't wait for the next book in the series so I'll have to pass the time by checking out this author's back catalogue.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC. This is a really good suspense book! You’re constantly wondering who is behind everything! There were a few things I wish had been answered and I did kinda hope for a little romance between Harper and James but maybe in book 2?!

Firstly, Thank you Netgalley for this ARC of Little Girl Vanished by Denise Grover Swank.

One of my favourite genres include crime and mystery so best believe I was hooked from start to end. This was my first book to read by this author and let's just say that I am obsessed with Harper Adams as a character because the way she is just herself and does right by other people makes the story! Harper was a cop in Little Rock before a situation caused her to lose her job and move back home with her parents.

Little did we know that she would be faced with a kidnapping close to her heart. Who kidnapped her? Does it connect with her sister? Is she at fault? With every question you have, this book will answer them for you in the best and most in depth way. With help from a former crime boss, will Harper Adams uncover the crime?

All of the little twists and turns made the book for me because it kept me guessing and made me read pages and pages of the book in one sit in. Cannot wait for the next book in the series as well as many more of Denise Swanks books! And if you want a fast paced but amazingggg book, then this is the one for you.

A damaged and traumatised ex police woman returns to the family home, disgraced, jobless and relying on alcohol to get her through each day. Traumatised by her sister’s kidnapping and murder over two decades ago has resulted in survivors guilt and a long standing rift with her family. Then her worst nightmare is realised when a further child is missing in mysteriously similar circumstances suggesting a copycat scenario. Intent on correcting what she perceives as her mistakes from the past a lonely and frightening investigation commences to solve both mysteries. A deeply flawed character mistrustful of everyone and everything she has been told leads to a race against time to prevent another child suffering the same fate as her sister. An exciting conclusion that gives long awaited answers if unable to rectify and reconcile the tragic events of the past. Many thanks to author, publisher and Netgalley for this advanced review copy.

I always love jumping into a new mystery, and this was no exception. This is a new to me author, and I’m already a fan of her work. This story is very well written and keeps you engaged all throughout.

The female main character is Harper Adams, a woman with many inner demons. She’s an ex-officer herself, who came back home in disgrace. When a case very similar to her sister’s comes along, she is determined to get to the bottom of it and get a better outcome.

Harper gets help from, but is wary of, James Malcolm, an owner of a local bar. He’s worked with law enforcement before and ends up helping Harper out as well. There is definitely tension between these two.

I loved all the twists in this book. I kept thinking I knew and guessing along the way, and was still shocked. It was everything I love in a mystery.

This is the first in a new series, and I can’t wait for the rest.

This is a great start to a new series from Denise Grover Swank. I’m a big fan of her Rose Gardner and Carly Moore series and I’m enjoying Harper Adams just as much. It’s a nice bonus if you’ve read some of her other books and are familiar with James “Skeeter” Malcolm, but it’s certainly not needed to enjoy this book.

After losing her job and having to move back home, Harper learns of a little girl that has gone missing. Since the local police department screwed up the investigation into her sister’s kidnapping years ago and nobody seems to be taking this new disappearance seriously, she starts her own investigation.

This was a great story in the search for whodunit and I enjoyed riding along with Harper during her investigation. There were several mysterious things going on during this story and left me wondering if they were all connected somehow. I was certainly surprised when all the mysteries were revealed.

I’m very curious where this series will go and I can’t wait for the journey. I did read the synopsis for the next book in the series and I’m happy to see James Malcom will be making an appearance in it too.

When you read a book and review it sometimes it's really hard to put into words how much you liked the book. This book needs 10 stars and there is not one thing I can say I would change about this book. Mystery, suspense and a great female lead character ! Everything I love! Harper goes back to her hometown and finds herself involved in finding a friends missing daughter. So many suspicious characters that you can't help but flip threw the pages trying to figure who took Ava. Look forward to book #2 in this series. SO GOOD!!!

Disgraced, ex-detective Harper Adams is perfectly content wallowing at rock bottom. She’s lost her job, house, and reputation, and it only gets worse when she’s forced to move back home to Jackson Creek, Arkansas, the one place she swore she’d never return.

But everything changes when she gets chilling news. A childhood friend’s daughter is missing…and it’s eerily reminiscent of Harper’s sister’s kidnapping and murder two decades ago.

Not her business.

Except with the police fumbling the case at every turn, Harper realizes she might be the only one who can save the girl.

A perfect whodunit. Harper Adams has hit rock bottom and it doesn't help matters any when she returns to her hometown. I was hooked from the beginning. Loved it from start to finish.

Okay, so I have to admit to being a huge fan of Denise's books, after first falling in love with her Rose Gardner series. Little Girl Vanished is the first book in a new series with Harper Adams as the protagonist. She is an ex Detective, having left under a cloud after a fatal shooting and some dodgy colleagues setting her up to be investigated.
She moves back home to live in her parents garage until she can recover and get back on her feet financially. An early morning frantic knock on the door informs her that a local child has gone missing and her first instinct is that there is a connection to her sister's murder over 20 years ago.
An old favourite character; James Malcolm returns in this (yay!) and he is his normal sexy self. Without spoiling anything, this is an absolutely cracking introduction into this new series and I can't wait to see what comes next. A whopping 10 stars for me!!

A bit if a slow burn but it definitely got under my skin and I couldnt put it down til I'd found out what had happened. This was my 1st book in the series and I loved everything about it from the writing style, the plot, the characters and the twists. It's not just another police procedural or another misfit vigilante cop story, it's really original and feels like such a fresh take on a female lead

A fantastic start to a new series!
This was my first time reading a book by Denise Grover Swank, but it definitely won't be the last. The pacing was spot on from start to finish, keeping me hooked and up far too late because I was unable to put it down!

The main character, Harper, is flawed in more ways than one and yet she's still someone you can root for, hoping that she finds the light at the end of the tunnel. While the main mystery of this first book was wrapped up nicely, there is definitely more for Harper to do and I'm really looking forward to seeing how she develops throughout the series - as well as what comes of a certain relationship between her and another character.

I will be keeping an eye out for the next book, Long Gone, in January 2024!

Really enjoyed this thriller. It was kind a slow but still liked it. Will continue reading other books by this author. I got this book as an arc from Netgalley and I’m leaving this review volunterily.

I couldn’t put this one down! Harper Adams has moved home to her distant parents after shooting a kid in what she thought was self defence but the gun wasn’t found. The cops have turned her back on her and when she heads home wallowing in the bottom of a bottle, the cops there have an issue with her as she believes they bungled the case of her sister two decades earlier. Only to find herself drawn in to a similar disappearance in the present day as the childhood friend of her sister – the one who should have been with her the day she was kidnapped – wakes to find her daughter is missing.

While a heroine in the story, Harper is deeply flawed and dealing with the loss of her job, life & work partner, reliant on her parents who seem to resent her after her sister’s death and numbing it with a lot of alcohol. Her detective skills and awareness are not at their peak but she fights to find Ava despite many possible suspects, someone stalking her and the police insistence that she is just a runaway.

This series brings back a character from earlier books by Denise Grover Swank, James Malcolm from the Rose Gardner Investigation series that has moved up my to read list because I want to know his history. There is already a second Harper Adams book in the works, Long Gone, available next January as Harper tries to find her way back home.

Thanks to NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for the ARC for review.

This was my first book by this author. Detective Harper Adams had a fall from grace which cost her her job and her reputation. She goes back home to live with her parents and is drawn into a local kidnapping which seems to have ties to the disappearance and murder of Harper's sister many year ago. This was an interesting mystery that had my attention the whole time. The twist at the end was good as well! I am excited to see that his is a series so we will able to read more about Harper in the future. I am also going to look up her older books to find out more about Malcolm's past since I now know that she wrote a previous story about him. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

I was gripped from the first page. I could not put the book down. Character development was fantastic with enough twists and turns to keep the housework waiting. I can't wait for the next book

A thrilling start to what is sure to become a popular series.

I love a good missing persons novel and this one certainly didn’t disappoint. Full of mystery and intrigue and with plenty of twists this book kept me reading at full throttle from the moment I picked it up.

As the lead to the beginning of a new series this book certainly sets the scene and introduces you our main character Harper. A disgraced police officer who’s not only having a hard time navigating her new life without friends or purpose but also struggling with her dependency on alcohol in order to cope with feelings and emotions she’d rather not resolve.

Harpers a good character, but I felt that she could’ve benefited from being much more developed and explored. Her alcoholism is played in heavily although the fact she seems to be a highly functioning alcoholic in less than 3 months felt somewhat unbelievable. I would’ve liked to have seen more of the effects her addiction played out in terms of her abilities rather than it being focused on for dramatic effect.

A rather annoying part of her character was her inability to form firm conclusions from her observations and investigations. He continued accusations towards Malcom were exhausting to the point just rude rather than serving an actual purpose. I didn’t mind her bluntness but she makes a point of saying she has done investigative work before but doesn’t seem to apply it to outside of the force.

Overall this book is a thrilling and entertaining read and I’d highly recommend it to someone considering picking it up. I’ve not read from this author before but I will certainly be checking out others in her collection and from this growing series.

Thanks to NetGalley for my advance copy in exchange for my honest review.

Harper Adams returns to her home town after losing her job as a detective. Shortly after she returns a child goes missing; reminiscent of her own sisters abduction and murder when they were young. As she dives deeper into this case (with the help of an incredible ex-criminal boss), the more the danger increases.

I thoroughly enjoyed this! Also, James Malcom, the ex-crime boss on the up and up was my favorite person in the book-love him! I enjoyed the pacing of the plot, character development, suspense, and questioning of who was involved. There were enough potential suspects that it wasn’t solved right away, and enough barriers for our unlikely partners to putting together the puzzle pieces. Worth checking out if you enjoy murder mystery.

I adore Denise Grover Swank - I first got hooked by her delightful writing and captivating mysteries with her Rose Gardner mysteries, then her blind bake series and now I am equally obsessed with Harper! I love that there was a cross-over of characters from her rose novels, and I'm really excited to see the development of James 'Skeeter' Malcolm as he the last set of books were just tapping into his softer side.

I really liked Harper - I didn't like her decisions so much - but that made this book different to the others which I really appreciated. I like how Grover Swank always takes you along on the ride of her mysteries and you find out everything alongside the main characters. It really makes you feel like you're right there next to Harper!

I love the twists and turns present in all of her books and this one was no different (in terms of a delightful surprise twist), and how it was wrapped up without feeling rushed always leaves me feeling satisfied and hungry for the next instalment.

I've been a DGS for years and following on reading this book - I can only see that continuing. EVERYONE needs to read this.

This is another winner from Denise Grover Swank. She is able to capture the emotions of her characters and then translate them perfectly on the page for the reader. The mystery was well developed and the suspense reached a perfect peak. The plot twists were complex but tied the story together for a perfect conclusion. I am excited to see what this author brings next.

First, thank you NetGalley for providing this advance copy for me to read and review. Fantastic book and story! Kept me guessing the entire time and the storyline was so detailed and realistic. Characters and their lives were well written and drew me in. Definitely a book I recommend and I also look forward to the next Harper Adams book in this series, not to mention other series by this author.

Little girl vanished is the first in a new series featuring ex detective Harper Adams set in small town America.

It opens strongly, revealing plenty of background issues for our lead character, and the impact these have had on getting her to her current position.

We are also introduced early to other potential narratives which the book could follow, and hooks you in from the start. The main theme is based around a kidnapping, which is a terrifying reflection of Harpers own childhood where she sister was kidnapped. As the coincidences and similarities start to pile up, Harper has to figure out if this is just another tragic event, a link to her past, or another horrifying alternative. There are plenty of periphery characters introduced to us but it’s easy to keep track of who is who, and a number of potential narrative arcs set up early on to provide intrigue, touching on some tough subjects including kidnap, murder, child abuse, and local corruption. At times it makes for a difficult read due to the sensitive nature of the topics but there is nothing gratuitous in the authors approach and it all lends to the story.

As a main character, Harper is obviously flawed and far from perfect, but it is easy to understand the reasons behind her behaviour and emphasise with her. I found myself rooting for her fairly early on, and found those around her stifling and judgemental of her character, and you could easily identify the reasons she doesn’t always play by the rules due to her past and present relationships and trauma.

The writing style is beautiful, and flows easily from one scene to the next, making it an easy read for a complex narrative. You feel the suspense build up the further you get into the story, and you have no idea where you’re going to be taken next or how it will resolve itself, which leaves you itching to read another few chapters each time. The story concludes nicely, bringing all of the pieces together, with an ending I didn’t see coming. We leave Haprer in a better but still not perfect situation than when we started, but this just sets us up nicely for the next in series.

Overall I really enjoyed this book, would recommend and looking forward to the next instalment.

Thank you to Netgalley and booksgosocial for a copy of this ebook for review considering. All views are my own.

4.5⭐️

<i> Disgraced, ex-detective Harper Adams is perfectly content wallowing at rock bottom. She’s lost her job, house, and reputation, and it only gets worse when she’s forced to move back home to Jackson Creek, Arkansas, the one place she swore she’d never return.

But everything changes when she gets chilling news. A childhood friend’s daughter is missing…and it’s eerily reminiscent of Harper’s sister’s kidnapping and murder two decades ago.

Not her business.

Except with the police fumbling the case at every turn, Harper realizes she might be the only one who can save the girl.

And she might need the help of a former crime boss to do it. </i>

Wow. This was a captivating mystery from start to finish. Harper was excellent as the FMC, a flawed but sympathetic lead, and don’t even start on James Malcolm. These are characters I can see following through a whole series, and I’m not usually one for serial mysteries. But in this case, I’ve already made sure to add book 2 to my wishlist.

Thank you Denise Grover Swank, BooksGoSocial, and NetGalley for providing this ARC for review consideration. All opinions expressed are my own.

A thrilling start to a new series.
Harper is a ex detective who returns to her home town and get caught up in a missing child case which has memories of the past.
A very good story with drama,angst,secrets twists and a surprise character.
Voluntarily reviewed.

WHAT A FANTASTIC BOOK ONE TO THIS NEW SERIES! I thought the prequel was good but I think this was even better! I absolutely Adored Harper Adams!! Harper carried a lot of baggage with her in book one but in little girl vanished you can tell how strong of a character Harper was!,I enjoyed Malcom James I was rooting for him the whole time! the action was exciting I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough what an excellent start to an incredible series. I already want more,

Thank you to NetGalley for providing this book.

I’m new to DGS, but I think I’m hooked now! I could not put this book down. I really needed to know what happened next and was truly trying to read it at any chance I had.

Harper Adams, a former police detective, finds herself wrapped up in a case of a missing child. This is because her sister was taken at a young age. Although decades apart, are these two cases connected? That is what Harper needs to figure out in order to find the missing child.

I did enjoy Harper’s character for the most part and am excited to see how she grows throughout the series. The ending was a little bit anticlimactic for me in certain aspects but at least it didn’t ruin the book completely for me.

I never got the chance to start a thriller series from the beginning right when it came out and am excited to follow this series!

Little girl vanished. Another great book by Denise Grover Swank published by DGS. I was so excited to read this one by a new fave author of mine. This book sucked me in and kept me guessing till the end. I’m excited to know this is book one of the Harper Adams story. Oooh I just seen on goodreads book two is coming soon. #excited. This one is available now so please do snag you a copy, you will not be disappointed. Denise Grover Swank is a talented story teller and oh my goodness did she tell a story.

A kidnap, murder mystery set in what seems to be small town America.

A flawed, slightly alcohol loving, former detective Harper Adams is drawn into an investigation which ,may have connections to her own family murder/kidnap in the past. Harper is able to ask many, and I mean many, questions involving the missing girls' parents, family neighbours etc., apparently without upsetting the local police force?

Slow to start, I really enjoyed her ability to solve the case(s). The other characters were credible although a little more backstory of some of them, for example James, would have helped.

Thanks to Net Galley and BooksGoSocial for the chance to read and review.

I have read many of Denise's books over the yens and even met her about 10 years ago. She was lovely and so interesting. I love her writing style, it has a fullness and warmth. Even though the books are set in the US and I live in the UK, I always understand the lives and locations in her novels. Her main characters are strong, feisty and independent women. This is a new character called Harper, but thee is the odd familiar character from her other books as well which I feel gives a greater understanding of the character. I look forward to reading more of her stories.

AWESOME thriller with lots of excitement throughout. First time reading this author but look forward to many more!! RECOMMEND totally for a gripping read. Thanks to #NetGalley/#Bookouture for #Little Girl Vanished in return for my honest review.

Denise Grover Swank can write gripping novels and this is a hell of gripping and twisty story featuring a down on her luck former detective, a missing girl, and a small town.
There's a fast paced and tense story that kept me guessing.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine

Disgraced, ex-detective Harper Adams has hit rock bottom in her life. She moves back to Arkansas-something she swore she would never do.
The child of her friend is missing and with the police investigation leading nowhere she teams up with a former crime boss James Malcolm.
Who will succeed?

Little Girl Vanished by Denise Grover Swank

Fast-paced, page-turning and gripping thriller. Denise Grover Swank never disappoints the readers. This proves again by her new thriller.

Harper Adams was suspended from her police duty because she shot a teenager. She thought it was a self-defence but the gun nor bullet from the teenager were not found. The story started with Harper seeing the psychologist, which was a standard procedure for a police after shooting the civilian. Harper understood the rules of the game, so she spit out the standard answer during the consultation.

Now she moved back to her parents place. This was what she hated.

Harper's sister was kidnapped and murdered 20 years ago. The daughter of her sister's childhood friend who was 12 years old also kidnapped? With the similarities of two cases, Harper now was needed by her old boss to help in this case.

The storyplot was grippingly written. I kept turning pages to find what happened next. I was hooked and the twisty ending surprised me. I enjoy Densie Grover Swank's books a lot. No dragging but surprising! I can't wait for her next Harper Adam Mystery!

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Little Girl Vanished - Denise Grover Swank

I finally read a book this month and it was a great one! I received a digital ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

This book took me on a rollercoaster of emotions, leaving me completely captivated from the very first page till the heart-pounding conclusion. 🎢📖

Swank's masterful storytelling skill shines through in this gripping mystery that will keep you at the edge of your seat. 🕵️‍♀️💔 The characters are so vividly portrayed, each with their own unique quirks and secrets, making them feel like old friends you can't help but root for and empathize with. 👥💕

From the first mysterious disappearance to the shocking twists and turns, every chapter leaves you hungry for more, unable to resist turning page after page. 🔄😱 I found myself second-guessing every clue, forming my own theories, and just when I thought I had it all figured out, Swank pulled the rug from under me with a revelation that left me speechless. 🤯🔍

But it's not just the suspense and intrigue that sets this book apart. The depth of emotions and themes explored throughout the story adds an incredible layer of depth. 💭💕 The raw portrayal of grief, resilience, and the unbreakable bonds of family tugs at your heartstrings and lingers long after you finish the book. 💧😢

Little Girl Vanished is more than just a mystery novel; it's an immersive experience that will stay with you for a lifetime. 🌟🌌

If you're a fan of thrillers that keep you guessing until the very end, this book is an absolute must-read! Trust me; you won't be able to put it down. 🙌📖 This book is available for purchase now and the next Harper Adams mystery releases January 2024!! 😍

This was an amazing, fast-paced thriller!

If you’re looking for a binge-worthy read- this is it. The end of every chapter left me wanting more!

I will definitely be reading more from this author.

Harper Adams a detective was forced out because she shot and killed a child who she said was shooting at her but no gun was found. A friend’s daughter has disappeared and Harper goes on the hunt. I had not read this author before but really enjoyed this book.

A young girl kidnapped, a father seemingly trying to cover it up. And a reminder left, from two decades before. Can this case be cracked before its all too late.

This really draws you in. The characters and their characteristics, make them almost real. Suffering in a manner that normal people do, without it being glorified.

Whilst some of the plot, may seem rather out of place, with how the characters are depicited. This can be forgiven. The characters are bold enough to carry it.

There’s no denying that this is a really good read. Its easy to read, and realistically speaking, this could happen in normal life, sort of perhaps. Minus a few of the more out there situations.

Managed to complete this in a couple of sittings, so it’s not all doom and gloom. It kept pulling me back for more.

Status: Completed

Rating: 4.4/5.0

Denise Grover Swank is a master! There is a always a gritty reality to her stories that jerks the heart and minds of readers. 'Little Girl Vanished' is the first in a new series about Harper Adams, a disgraced police detective gone home and trying to solve a kidnapping that is similar to her sister's kidnapping and murder 20 years earlier. The victim is the daughter of her sister's best friend. It is completely gripping, from start to finish. The major bonus is the addition of James Malcolm, one of my favorite literary characters of all time. He is a complete enigma, and a joy to have around. I literally can't wait for more. Read anything by Denise Grover Swank!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

I really enjoyed Little Girl Vanished. It grabbed me right from the start and never let go. I’m looking forward to this being a series. My only critique is how Harper acted around Malcolm. It got a bit annoying. Otherwise her character was very entertaining.

This was an interesting read with relatable characters. Past and present are nicely put together. The suspense was moderate,

Thank you to Denise Grover Swank, BooksGoSocial, and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

I have been a fan of Denise Grover Swank for a long time. I absolutely loved the Rose Gardner mysteries, so as soon as I saw this, I had to request it and I was not disappointed!

This was so good. I loved Harper. She seemed so real to me. If that makes sense.

This is fast-paced, holds your attention, and leaves you wanting more. I was on the edge of my seat throughout this book. I cannot wait for the next one.

Absolutely loved this book and couldn't wait to pick it up again. This is the first time I had read anything by this author and it certainly won't be the last

I absolutely devoured and adored the Carly Moore series by Denise Grover Swank so I had to read this new Harper Adams series without a doubt! I had heard it would feature Skeeter Malcolm and I was excited, but it actually took me a while to figure out James Malcolm was Skeeter.

I was pretty happy though to learn more about James Malcom (a.k.a Skeeter), and I really loved Harper Adams as well, so I’m very interested in reading the rest of the series. I can see loads of character development for Harper as she was/is currently an unstable character, but you can’t help rooting for her. Pair that with the (perhaps) romantic tension with James and you hit a home run in my book!

It wasn’t a mind-blowing mystery or anything, but it was well-written, with great characters and a great premise! I’m looking forward to Book #2!

My first Denise Grover Swank book and I'm very happy to see it's the first in a series! A great story with great characters. I love a good mystery and this one had the perfect combination of suspense, action and twists that kept me guessing. I can't wait for the next book in the series and now I need to check out some of Denise's other books.

Harper Adams, a detective for the Little Rock Police Department with a spotless, exemplary record until it wasn't. Now she lives in her parents' apartment above their garage in Jackson Creek Arkansas. Her only friend that believed in her in Little Rock is here in Jackson Creek working in the sheriff's department. But Harper isn't the only girl 'vanished'. Ava is missing and there are too many people with too many different stories and ideas to find her.
Little did anyone know where this would lead or how many lives will be connected to it. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book.

This is a book to pick up and read that you won't be able to put down until the last page is read.

Harper Adams was a good detective but something went wrong and she resigned, moved back in with her parents but with her sisters murder and the sisters daughter Ava missing will she be able to find out answers or will there be secrets and untruths to be uncovered?

This is an intense and thrilling read, filled with suspense, plenty of action and some twists and turns. It kept me on the edge on my seat. A well written story, great characters and everything you want and need for a thriller.

Thank you NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book.

The first book I have read by this author and I was very impressed. It’s always nice to have a strong female lead character with relatable flaws. I really really enjoyed this book and will look forward to reading many more by this author!

Harper Adams is a disgraced former detective who has hit rock bottom and she is perfectly fine with it. She is forced to return home to Jackson Creek, Arkansas, and helps a childhood friend find her missing daughter, the case is similar to that of her sister's disappearance and murder two decades ago.

This was a great first installment to a new “detective” series. Harper Adams has had a rough life. Her sister was abducted and killed when they were teenagers. She fell from grace as a police detective in Little Rock and has returned home in disgrace to a small town where very few people are on her side, especially when another young girl is kidnapped and the time to find her alive is quickly running out.
I really enjoyed the first 3/4 of this book but was a bit disappointed with how things wrapped up at the ending. That being said, I’m definitely in for the next book. I want to find out more about her scumbag former partner!!
*Thanks to DGS and NetGalley for the ebook review copy.

I believe this is the first time I have read a novel by Denise Grover Swank and hopefully it will not be the last. Although it is a familiar format, disgraced detective and difficult family dynamics, it nonetheless is a very good story, I was invested in it from the beginning. I am interested to see the way in which Harper’s character develops in the next instalment but much more interested in how the mysterious James’ back story is going to develop!
This is a very good read from an accomplished author who is at the height of her skills, I would thoroughly recommend it and thank Netgalley for the opportunity to read this for an honest review.

Very engaging read. Fantastic start to a new series and can’t wait to read the next installment. Loved most that I could not guess where this was going, twisty & dark. Kept me hooked. Thank you for this arc in exchange of an honest review.

Little Girl Vanished by Denise Grover Swank was an excellent read and a book that, once I started to read it I found it hard to put it down.

Disgraced, ex-detective Harper Adams is perfectly content wallowing at rock bottom. She’s lost her job, her house, and her reputation, and it only gets worse when she’s forced to move back home to Jackson Creek, Arkansas, this is the only place she swore she’d never return.
However, everything changes when she gets chilling news. A childhood friend’s daughter is missing. It’s eerily reminiscent of Harper’s sister’s kidnapping and murder two decades ago. Harper knows it's none of her business. But, the local police are fumbling the case at every turn, Harper realises she might be the only one who can save the girl. However she might need the help of James Malcolm, a former crime boss, to do it.

Will Harper find her childhood friends daughter in time before it's too late!

WoW, this book had me sitting on the edge of my seat with lots of twists and turns that will have your head spinning!!!! Great book and I highly recommend, especially as a holiday read.

Really enjoyed this book it kept me gooked from the first page I will definitely be recommending it to my friends

Little Girl Vanished, A small town kidnapping (Harper Adams Mystery Book 1) by Denise Grover Swank
Publisher: BooksGoSocial
Genre: Mystery & Thrillers
Published: June 20, 2023

Little Girl Vanished is the first book in the Harper Adams Mystery series by Denise Grover Swank. This book was so good that I know I’ll be reading all the future books in the series.

This book is fast paced with great characters! I could not put this one down! It was so intense and had me captivated from page one.

This is a must read for 2023! I highly recommend it!!!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

I hadn’t read any of the books by this author before but really enjoyed this one. It is the first book in a series featuring ex Detective Harper Adams. She left her job after being involved in a fatal shooting and is now homeless relying on alcohol to get her through the day and has had to return back home to live with her parents in their garage. Hamper is still traumatised by the kidnapping and murder of her sister over twenty years ago which has caused a very strained relationship with her family. On her arrival home she is horrified when another young girl goes missing with similarities to the case of her sister. Everyone thinks she may have run away but Harper is convinced that there is a link. The police don’t seem to be making any progress with the case so Harper decides that she will try to save the girl with the help of her former boss. This was a gripping read and full of suspense and I can’t wait for the next book in the series.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book.

This is a story that you won’t want to put down.

Strong female character with her own troubles but she puts that aside to do a job she is no longer legally able to do.

This is a page turner for sure and you will love it!

Title: Little Girl Vanished
Author: Denise Grover Swank
Rating: 4/5 ⭐️'s

“Little Girl Vanished" marks the captivating beginning of a new series by Denise Grover Swank. The mystery thriller unfolds in a small town haunted by a previous child kidnapping, drawing in an ex-detective facing her own struggles. With numerous twists & turns, it's a gripping read that's hard to put down.

Denise Grover Swank's writing style shines in this book, seamlessly flowing & maintaining an engaging pace. The realistic & relatable character portrayals were a highlight, keeping me captivated from start to finish.

I highly recommend "Little Girl Vanished" to fans of Denise Grover Swank, enthusiasts of mystery thrillers, & anyone seeking a promising new series. I am eagerly anticipating the next installment!!!

After several years without a DGS book, this one lived up to my expectations & more. A big thank you to #LittleGirlVanished & #NetGalley for the eARC. All opinions shared are strictly my own.

#Bookstagram #Bookish #ReadingList #BookLover #BookNerd #ReadersofInstagram
#InstaBooks #BookRecommendation
#mysterythriller #bookreview #BooksofInstagram

Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher and author for an advanced copy of this book.

This book does not disappoint. Definitely recommend.

Thank youto theauthorfor giving me and ARC!

⭐⭐⭐⭐/5

WOW!!! I could not put this down. HarperAdams has moved home to her distant parents after shooting a kid in what she thought was self denfence but the gun wasn't found. The cops have turned her back onher and when she heads home wallowing in the bottom of a bottle, the cops there have an issue with her as she believed they bungled the case of her sister two decades ealier. Only to find herself draun in to a similar disappearance in the present day as the childhood friend of her sister - the one who should have been with her the day she was kidnapped - wakes to fid her daughter is missing.

Harper Adams is honestly one of the best heroines. If you are looking for a thriller/mystery, contemporary, crime, detective and romantic suspense story then this is thebook for you

Little girl vanished is a great book! It’s a story of a disgraced detective who killed a young boy while on duty, who comes back to her home town only to see a little girl was kidnapped just like her sister was kidnapped and killed twenty years ago. With no authority or jurisdiction and people hating her guts she tries to find the little girl with help of even more quest people.

This book started slow with a lot of needed character building. But post that the book was not something I could put down. It was an easy read with a few loose ends here and there but overall the story was pretty unpredictable and kept you at the edge of your seat while reading this. Harper is not at all shown as an idea hero. Her flaws are on display and made sure that the reader is well aware of all things wrong with her and the only thing right with her is her passion for the law. Even side characters such as Louise and Malcolm really helped us see her two sides. I really wish there would have been a little bit romantic angle to this. I know I crib about books having one but there were two relationships in building and both weren’t pursued. Overall the book for its genre was amazing and had a lot of points in its favor.

Reasons why you should read the book:
• Very human female lead
• No romantic crap (even though I wished for a little)
• Gripping story line
• A good mystery with just the right amount of suspects

Take a Jack and Coke with your greasiest burger and fries and read how Harper tries to find a little kidnapped girl.

i am so excited to read more books from this author! this felt so fast paced and was well written. i could easily get lost in this story and can’t wait for the rest of the series

This book is a great read. I didn’t want to put it down. Harper had to move home due to corruption at her old job. Her sisters best friends daughter goes missing in a similar way to her sister. She starts investigating and finds unlikely allies.

Really good read. Can’t wait to read more of the series!!!

This book is the first in a new series surrounding ex-detective Harper Adams. She's had a rough few years so decides to move back to her hometown of Jackson Creek, AR. When her friend's daughter goes missing, it brings back memories of her own sister's kidnapping and murder many years ago. Harper is thrown into the case as she begins to investigate. This was a very thrilling novel and a great start of a new detective series. I look forward to more books in the series and from this author! Thank you to the publisher for my ARC in exchange for a review.

Wow, what a great book! It was so engaging and kept me turning pages until the very end! I highly recommend it to fellow readers!

This series is off to a good start.
It's a bit slow, but hell, it was worth it.
It took 82% of the book to make me really get into it.

I literally gasped so loudly when I found out who kidnapped Ava.
I had my suspicions ever since that character came in, and when they were uncovering more secrets, I was still a bit hesitant because he seemed like a good person, but it turns out he is freaking not!
Malcolm and Harper make a really good team, despite these two always bickering with each other. It's kind of funny, but it really goes with the story.
I 100% recommend this story to every crime and thriller fan out there. It's worth the read and I need the second book so bad right now!

You know what I love more than a police procedural? An ex cop working to solve a crime. Harper lost everything in a shooting where the gun disappeared and when she ends up back home, a case eerily similar to her sisters murder happens.

I liked and related to Harper as she tries to find the missing girl while also righting her ship. Her deep flaws and scars are what make her relatable. And this case kept me guessing. I suspected everyone, so while right, I didn't exactly win either. There were moments, I second guessed Harper's choices, but she got results.

Man this is a riveting thriller that grabs you from the first page and doesn't let go. It follows the heart-wrenching disappearance of a young girl and the quest to find her. It’s a page-turning read, filled with suspense, twists, and emotional depth. a story that is both gripping and deeply human. It's a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers and mystery novels.