Look For Me hit me from the first page of the Prologue. Using colourful descriptions and a first person narrative Lisa Gardner creates atmosphere, fear and suspense in large measures.  Before Chapter One started I was already hooked.

Over the next few chapters the intrigue continues as the reader works out the relationship between the three different narratives that Lisa uses to tell the story. We have Flora in the first person, Roxy’s school essays and third person sections written from D.D.’s perspective; all in addition to that Prologue in Sarah’s first person. If you are concerned that this will confuse then put your mind at rest; it all adds to the understanding and the mystery.

I am aware that there have been several books featuring D.D. Warren and Flora who make an interesting couple. It is always nice to read about a good cop with a happy married life and no personal hang-ups. In contrast Flora Dane and her group of similarly affected “survivors” have more than enough baggage for all of us. They do however provide an interesting foil, giving the author the means to stretch the investigation beyond today’s routine police procedures.

The children’s storylines are at times troubling and if there is any truth in the activities described in the foster home that is a worrying indictment on the US child care systems.

Prior to Look For Me Lisa Gardner had published several novels and that experience and success shows in the quality of this book.  Her well-crafted story appears to have been supported by first class editing and proof-reading because every sentence flows with correct grammar and spelling. I was lucky enough to be sent a hard-back copy with a jacket bearing credits from eight of the current biggest selling novelists; support that most struggling writers can only dream of.

This would not be a balanced review without some negative comment but all I can manage is that on occasions the three narratives repeat themselves as the various parties catch up with events. Not really an issue and I often appreciate an update.

Give Look For Me a try, you will not be disappointed. Indeed, the Whispering Stories review machine is currently running a little slow and the sequel Never Tell has already been published in the UK so why not get them both. I have awarded a nearly perfect four and a half stars.

About the Author

Lisa Gardner is a #1 New York Times bestselling crime novelist. A self-described research junkie, she has parlayed her interest in police procedure and twisted minds into a streak of twenty thrillers. Her latest, NEVER TELL, came out Feb. 19 2019 and features Detective D.D. Warren joining forces with vigilante Flora Dane to investigate the murder of known associate of Flora’s infamous kidnapper.

Lisa lives in the mountains of New Hampshire with two crazy pups and an ancient rescue dog. When not writing, Lisa loves to hike, play cribbage, and of course, read!

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