The Night She Disappeared – Forever Winter

July 2022 Book Recommendation – The Night She Disappeared by Lisa Jewell

It was supposed to be a simple date between young parents Tallulah & Zach, but they never came back. Their baby was left in the care of Tallulah’s mother, Kim. This happened in 2017. In 2019, a new resident arrived and saw “Dig Here” sign that reopens Tallulah’s case. The investigation starts again and this time, it looks like it is finally going somewhere. Where is Tallulah? And who placed the “dig here” sign?

Full Synopsis

2017: 19 year old Tallulah is going out on a date, leaving her baby with her mother, Kim.

Kim watches her daughter leave and, as late evening turns into night, which turns into early morning, she waits for her return. And waits.

The Night She Disappeared by Lisa Jewell – Book Summary

This is a summary based on my understanding of the novel. Please also note that this summary contains spoilers. You may want to read the entire book first before proceeding

2017

Tallulah and Zach didn’t come home after dinner and some unexpected drinks with friends. Tallulah’s mother, Kim, is extremely worried. She knows Tallulah, she’s responsible and is a hands on mother to her baby, Noah.

The last update Kim received from Tallulah was a text, informing her that they bumped into her college friend Scarlett Jacques, and they’ll be going to her place for some drinks.

Kim contacted Scarlet, went to her house called the “Dark Place” and asked details about what happened the night before. Scarlet said they drank, then Tallulah and Zach went home by themselves – saying they’ll just grab a cab. That was the end of it, even when Kim tried asking the other friends who were also there that night.

The Night She Disappeared by Lisa Jewell – Book Review

I knew I would like this book the moment I started reading this. I liked the mystery, the thrill, and the emotion. It doesn’t only revolve around solving the disappearance of Tallulah & Zach – this involves emotion.

I loved how raw Kim’s character is. I loved how Tallulah & Zach aren’t one of those cringey couples, they actually have real & relatable relationship issues.

The main factor that kept me from giving this book 5 stars is Sophie, her personality and her thoughts about Liam. Inappropriate and irrelevant.