Does every mother hold a deep fear in her heart that one day her child could be kidnapped? I can’t imagine the heartache that parents of missing children must endure. But this story paints just such a picture, in such vivid detail, that I could very easily put myself in their place.

On the final night of a music festival in Hesterville, Georgia, a storm muffles the sound of the blaring music as Rachel Dixon tucks her baby into bed before falling into a deep sleep. So deep, she doesn’t hear a sound. When she and her husband wake up in the morning, Emily is gone. Y’all I was heartbroken right there! Her baby is gone! My arms ached to hold this fictional child. To put this child back in her crib, so this family wouldn’t have to know such a loss.

Vicki Robart is one of the thousands at the festival, but she’s not feeling the music. She’s feeling the emptiness over the loss of her own baby. In a desperate act, she does something that changes the lives of many for years to come. Again, heartbroken! Her baby, too, is gone, although in different circumstances than those of the Dixons. I’ve never lost a child but have friends who have. I feel Crosby captured Vicki’s pain and mental anguish over her loss quite well.

I wasn’t surprised at how this story played out, but I was thrilled that it was happening the way it was. I realize that statement probably doesn’t make a lot of sense. She figured out what was happening and liked it anyway? Yes, I did. You’ll just have to read this story to figure out what the heck I’m talking about. This is one of those stories that makes everything come full circle! I love the chance encounters, etc. that lead the characters down a path they didn’t expect.

Pages turned faster and faster as I wished and prayed for a happy ending. While the ending is satisfying, it kept this book from being a 5-star read, which is was until that point. The story kept me on pins and needles with tears of sadness and joy in my eyes throughout. But the ending felt too easy and rushed after the emotional ride I’d been on. I’ll read a longer book every time if I can simply have those little details that really close out the story in a satisfying way.

Crosby has found a new fan of her work, so excuse me while I head off to the library for more of her books to add to my list.

Advanced copy of Emily, Gone provided by NetGalley.

 

Rating: 4.5 stars

Reviewer: Jennifer

Title: Emily, Gone

Author: Bette Lee Crosby

Release Date: April 30, 2019

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