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Red River Road
Anna Downes's extraordinary next thriller follows a woman desperate to discover what happened to her sister on a solo road trip through the Australian outback.
Katy Sweeney is determined to find her sister. A year earlier, just three weeks into a solo vanlife trip, free-spirited Phoebe vanished without a trace on Western Australia’s remote and achingly beautiful Coral Coast. With no witnesses, no leads, and no DNA evidence, the case has gone cold. But Katy refuses to give up.
Using Phoebe’s social media accounts as a map, Katy starts to retrace her steps, searching for the clues that the police have missed. Was Phoebe being followed? Who had she met along the way, and what danger did they pose? Was she as happy as her sun-bleached, lens-flared photos seem to suggest?
Then Katy’s path collides with that of Beth, a young woman on the run from her own dark past—and very recent present. And as Katy realizes that Beth might be her best and only chance of finding the truth, the two women form an uneasy alliance to venture forth into increasingly wild territory to find out what really happened to Phoebe in this breathtaking but maybe deadly place, and how her fate connects them all.
Anna Downes takes us on a twist-filled journey into the dark side of solo female travel, in this gripping novel that explores what drives us to keep searching for those we have lost, the family bonds that can make or break us, and the deception of memory.
Katy Sweeney is determined to find her sister. A year earlier, just three weeks into a solo vanlife trip, free-spirited Phoebe vanished without a trace on Western Australia’s remote and achingly beautiful Coral Coast. With no witnesses, no leads, and no DNA evidence, the case has gone cold. But Katy refuses to give up.
Using Phoebe’s social media accounts as a map, Katy starts to retrace her steps, searching for the clues that the police have missed. Was Phoebe being followed? Who had she met along the way, and what danger did they pose? Was she as happy as her sun-bleached, lens-flared photos seem to suggest?
Then Katy’s path collides with that of Beth, a young woman on the run from her own dark past—and very recent present. And as Katy realizes that Beth might be her best and only chance of finding the truth, the two women form an uneasy alliance to venture forth into increasingly wild territory to find out what really happened to Phoebe in this breathtaking but maybe deadly place, and how her fate connects them all.
Anna Downes takes us on a twist-filled journey into the dark side of solo female travel, in this gripping novel that explores what drives us to keep searching for those we have lost, the family bonds that can make or break us, and the deception of memory.
320 pages, Paperback
First published August 27, 2024
About the author
Anna Downes
9 books1,035 followersANNA DOWNES was born and raised in Sheffield, UK, but now lives just north of Sydney, Australia with her husband and two children. She worked as an actress before turning her attention to writing. She was shortlisted for the Sydney Writers Room Short Story Prize (2017) and longlisted for the Margaret River Short Story Competition (2018).
The Safe Place was inspired by Anna’s experiences working as a live-in housekeeper on a remote French estate in 2009-10.
The Safe Place was inspired by Anna’s experiences working as a live-in housekeeper on a remote French estate in 2009-10.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 803 reviews
May 6, 2024
This was a book that I had to think about for some time. It's very trippy in that I was never sure about what was going on, who was being honest, who to believe, was everything real, who is being reliable, who is unreliable, etc. I just didn't know what to think, and that is the beauty of this book. Anna Downes created the sensation in me that I believe that her main character was feeling.
Katy Sweeney is searching for her sister, Phoebe, who vanished a year ago on Western Australia’s coral coast. Katy doesn't have much to go on except her determination and drive to find her sister. She will rely on Phoebe's social media posts as a guide. Along her search, Katy meets Beth, a woman on the run.
The setting and atmosphere in this book were wonderful. Plus, this book has an eerie and creepy vibe to it. It is unsettling in many ways. As Katy experienced many things along her search, she meets many people. Things get intense at times and having the POV of Katy, Wyatt, and Beth made the book interesting. I had an inkling around the 60% of the book about one aspect and was right; however, that did not affect my enjoyment of the book at all.
One downside of this book for me was it is a bit of a slow burn. I don't do well with slow burns. I don't care for them, but I found I was able to overlook this to a small degree in this book.
While I guessed one major reveal at the end of the book, I think many will be shocked. Even when I had that element figured out, I still had some aha moments when I learned even more.
Red River Road kept me on my toes and turning the pages. As I mentioned, it has an unsettling feeling to it. I can see this being made into a movie.
Atmospheric, creepy, unsettling, well written, and well thought out.
Thank you to Minotaur Books and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com 📖
Katy Sweeney is searching for her sister, Phoebe, who vanished a year ago on Western Australia’s coral coast. Katy doesn't have much to go on except her determination and drive to find her sister. She will rely on Phoebe's social media posts as a guide. Along her search, Katy meets Beth, a woman on the run.
The setting and atmosphere in this book were wonderful. Plus, this book has an eerie and creepy vibe to it. It is unsettling in many ways. As Katy experienced many things along her search, she meets many people. Things get intense at times and having the POV of Katy, Wyatt, and Beth made the book interesting. I had an inkling around the 60% of the book about one aspect and was right; however, that did not affect my enjoyment of the book at all.
One downside of this book for me was it is a bit of a slow burn. I don't do well with slow burns. I don't care for them, but I found I was able to overlook this to a small degree in this book.
While I guessed one major reveal at the end of the book, I think many will be shocked. Even when I had that element figured out, I still had some aha moments when I learned even more.
Red River Road kept me on my toes and turning the pages. As I mentioned, it has an unsettling feeling to it. I can see this being made into a movie.
Atmospheric, creepy, unsettling, well written, and well thought out.
Thank you to Minotaur Books and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com 📖
September 10, 2024
3.5 ⭐️
Katy Sweeney is looking for her younger sister Phoebe- a vivacious blogger who disappeared while traveling solo in her van. Her journey was supposed to take her on a complete loop of Australia, starting and ending in Perth.
Pheebsinwonderland Day 6- Besides the “necessities” all you need is common sense, Phoebe assures her followers-“Trust your gut and if something’s off-just leave!” She posts along with her TOP TWENTY SAFETY TIPs. #solofemaletravel, #womenwhowander
And, yet, just three weeks later, her BEAUTIFUL PHOTOS and CHEERFUL POSTS completely stop.
It’s been a year, and the case has gone cold, but Katy believes that people don’t just vanish into thin air-everyone leaves a trace-you just have to find it.
So, using Phoebe’s social media accounts as a map, Katy retraces her sister’s steps, searching for any clues the police may have missed.
Her first clue comes when she finds a Bobby pin, painted with nail polish-in the dirt at one of the campsites-which is a unique item that Phoebe always wore in her hair.
Teaming up with Katy is Beth (Lily) who also found trouble while living a van life and literally ran into Katy while on the run from an abusive boyfriend.
The story alternates between the POV’s of Katy, Beth and Wyatt-a sick, young boy whose Mom also disappeared after leaving their home one day.
I have mixed feelings about this book.
The author captured the dark side of Women’s Solo travel brilliantly, with descriptive prose and nothing is scarier to me than reading about or imagining the awful things that some humans are capable of.
The story started out strong but the pace became too SLOW by the midway point and 384 pages began to feel too long. Despite mostly enjoying it, the book took me longer than usual to finish.
And the book took a turn in the end which disappointed me. It was a unique story but there was a missed opportunity to really make this an EMOTIONAL crime novel, and I felt cheated by the ending. How you feel about it may determine your final rating too.
I paired my reading with the audiobook, narrated by Maddy Withington, who did a terrific job voicing all three characters.
Thank You to the Chandler Public Library for the loan of this title.
Katy Sweeney is looking for her younger sister Phoebe- a vivacious blogger who disappeared while traveling solo in her van. Her journey was supposed to take her on a complete loop of Australia, starting and ending in Perth.
Pheebsinwonderland Day 6- Besides the “necessities” all you need is common sense, Phoebe assures her followers-“Trust your gut and if something’s off-just leave!” She posts along with her TOP TWENTY SAFETY TIPs. #solofemaletravel, #womenwhowander
And, yet, just three weeks later, her BEAUTIFUL PHOTOS and CHEERFUL POSTS completely stop.
It’s been a year, and the case has gone cold, but Katy believes that people don’t just vanish into thin air-everyone leaves a trace-you just have to find it.
So, using Phoebe’s social media accounts as a map, Katy retraces her sister’s steps, searching for any clues the police may have missed.
Her first clue comes when she finds a Bobby pin, painted with nail polish-in the dirt at one of the campsites-which is a unique item that Phoebe always wore in her hair.
Teaming up with Katy is Beth (Lily) who also found trouble while living a van life and literally ran into Katy while on the run from an abusive boyfriend.
The story alternates between the POV’s of Katy, Beth and Wyatt-a sick, young boy whose Mom also disappeared after leaving their home one day.
I have mixed feelings about this book.
The author captured the dark side of Women’s Solo travel brilliantly, with descriptive prose and nothing is scarier to me than reading about or imagining the awful things that some humans are capable of.
The story started out strong but the pace became too SLOW by the midway point and 384 pages began to feel too long. Despite mostly enjoying it, the book took me longer than usual to finish.
And the book took a turn in the end which disappointed me. It was a unique story but there was a missed opportunity to really make this an EMOTIONAL crime novel, and I felt cheated by the ending. How you feel about it may determine your final rating too.
I paired my reading with the audiobook, narrated by Maddy Withington, who did a terrific job voicing all three characters.
Thank You to the Chandler Public Library for the loan of this title.
May 6, 2024
EXCERPT: 'Hi everyone! I'm Phoebe and I'm a travel addict and van-lifer. I'm about to take me, myself and I off on the adventure of a lifetime - the big lap of Australia. Only two more sleeps to go. And before you ask, no I'm not scared. The first thing people say when I tell them I'm travelling alone is "Be careful". Don't even get me started on my parents' response. But the world is full of magic, and solo travel offers way more rewards than risks. It's just that the bad stories get told way more often than the good. . . .'
ABOUT 'RED RIVER ROAD': Katy Sweeney is determined to find her sister. A year earlier, just three weeks into a solo vanlife trip, free-spirited Phoebe vanished without a trace on Western Australia’s remote and achingly beautiful Coral Coast. With no witnesses, no leads, and no DNA evidence, the case has gone cold. But Katy refuses to give up.
Using Phoebe’s social media accounts as a map, Katy starts to retrace her steps, searching for the clues that the police have missed. Was Phoebe being followed? Who had she met along the way, and what danger did they pose? Was she as happy as her sun-bleached, lens-flared photos seem to suggest?
Then Katy’s path collides with that of Beth, a young woman on the run from her own dark past—and very recent present. And as Katy realizes that Beth might be her best and only chance of finding the truth, the two women form an uneasy alliance to venture forth into increasingly wild territory to find out what really happened to Phoebe in this breathtaking but maybe deadly place, and how her fate connects them all.
MY THOUGHTS: Red River Road, brilliantly written by Anna Downes and superbly narrated by Maddy Withington, blew me away. Tense, twisty, atmospheric and addictive are just a few of the superlatives I could use to describe this. I held my breath so often during the narrative, it's a wonder I didn't black out!
When I started, my first thoughts were 'FFS! Not another alcoholic, unreliable narrator!' But I'm pleased to report that's not how it panned out.
The narrative is related from three POV: Katy, Beth and a 15-year-old boy, Wyatt, whose mother is also missing. All three of these main characters come across as slightly flaky and unreliable at times. Not constantly, just at times. The tension starts pretty much straight away and never completely disappears. If Anna Downes aim is to stop women travelling on their own, she has definitely succeeded with me.
There are a lot of threads to this plot which are slowly woven together to present the full picture, which turned out to be something I had never envisaged. Not even remotely imagined. There is some pretty heavy subject matter, but very little of it graphically described, including sexual assault, mental health issues, and stalking - both physically and on social media. There are some excellent and diverting red herrings, and lots of lies and secrets.
There is a general air of creepiness - who to trust? Anyone? No one? That man with the soulful eyes, reading a book? Those two women? The person I'm travelling with? Damn, I felt unsafe just reading this and I am no shrinking violet. Much is made of local legends, myths and reports of missing women. Just how can someone and their van just disappear off the face of the earth? Well, it turns out it's quite easy . . .
What sealed the five-star rating for me was that final line in the book. Superbly chilling!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
#RedRiverRoad #NetGalley
THE AUTHOR: ANNA DOWNES was born and raised in Sheffield, UK, but now lives just north of Sydney, Australia with her husband and two children. She worked as an actress before turning her attention to writing.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to W.F. Howes via NetGalley for providing an audio ARC of Red River Road written by Anna Downes and narrated by Maddy Withington for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
ABOUT 'RED RIVER ROAD': Katy Sweeney is determined to find her sister. A year earlier, just three weeks into a solo vanlife trip, free-spirited Phoebe vanished without a trace on Western Australia’s remote and achingly beautiful Coral Coast. With no witnesses, no leads, and no DNA evidence, the case has gone cold. But Katy refuses to give up.
Using Phoebe’s social media accounts as a map, Katy starts to retrace her steps, searching for the clues that the police have missed. Was Phoebe being followed? Who had she met along the way, and what danger did they pose? Was she as happy as her sun-bleached, lens-flared photos seem to suggest?
Then Katy’s path collides with that of Beth, a young woman on the run from her own dark past—and very recent present. And as Katy realizes that Beth might be her best and only chance of finding the truth, the two women form an uneasy alliance to venture forth into increasingly wild territory to find out what really happened to Phoebe in this breathtaking but maybe deadly place, and how her fate connects them all.
MY THOUGHTS: Red River Road, brilliantly written by Anna Downes and superbly narrated by Maddy Withington, blew me away. Tense, twisty, atmospheric and addictive are just a few of the superlatives I could use to describe this. I held my breath so often during the narrative, it's a wonder I didn't black out!
When I started, my first thoughts were 'FFS! Not another alcoholic, unreliable narrator!' But I'm pleased to report that's not how it panned out.
The narrative is related from three POV: Katy, Beth and a 15-year-old boy, Wyatt, whose mother is also missing. All three of these main characters come across as slightly flaky and unreliable at times. Not constantly, just at times. The tension starts pretty much straight away and never completely disappears. If Anna Downes aim is to stop women travelling on their own, she has definitely succeeded with me.
There are a lot of threads to this plot which are slowly woven together to present the full picture, which turned out to be something I had never envisaged. Not even remotely imagined. There is some pretty heavy subject matter, but very little of it graphically described, including sexual assault, mental health issues, and stalking - both physically and on social media. There are some excellent and diverting red herrings, and lots of lies and secrets.
There is a general air of creepiness - who to trust? Anyone? No one? That man with the soulful eyes, reading a book? Those two women? The person I'm travelling with? Damn, I felt unsafe just reading this and I am no shrinking violet. Much is made of local legends, myths and reports of missing women. Just how can someone and their van just disappear off the face of the earth? Well, it turns out it's quite easy . . .
What sealed the five-star rating for me was that final line in the book. Superbly chilling!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
#RedRiverRoad #NetGalley
THE AUTHOR: ANNA DOWNES was born and raised in Sheffield, UK, but now lives just north of Sydney, Australia with her husband and two children. She worked as an actress before turning her attention to writing.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to W.F. Howes via NetGalley for providing an audio ARC of Red River Road written by Anna Downes and narrated by Maddy Withington for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
September 29, 2024
Gasp! I knew going in that anything Anna Downes wrote would be pretty darn good. And let me tell you, Red River Road managed to meet my expectations and then blow them away. With an evocative setting, immersive plot, and mixed media format, I was won over hook, line, and sinker right from the start. After all, the addictive, finely layered storyline wasn’t the only strength to this story. Oh no. There was an underlying message that proved to be both thought-provoking and utterly stunning even if it was somewhat heavy and pockmarked with just barely there triggers. All together, it was a dark, wild ride.
Told via multiple POVs that were composed of distinctly clear cut identities that helped heighten suspense, each persona waffled between unreliable and trustworthy. Combined, they took a well-plotted storyline and made it seem like I was peeling an onion until all was revealed. And oh what a storyline that it was. Rife with misdirection and jaw-dropping twists, this was far more than just another reinvention of the missing person trope. Instead there were secrets piled upon lies, all of which came together to build one downright chilling, spine-tingling thriller.
All in all, with a purposeful slow burn plot that felt like a masterfully orchestrated mystery, I was duly impressed. What made it even better, however, was the fast-paced, explosive climax and near-constant palpable tension. Ratcheting higher and higher with each deft reveal, the foreboding made me look over my shoulder as I fully expecting eyes on me as well. Just know that you need to pay close attention to what’s going on. Maybe that way you’ll pick up on the deftly obscured clues that I personally missed. But then, I was just as happy to remain in the dark throughout this unguessable, binge-worthy novel. Rating of 4.5 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
Katy Sweeney is looking for her sister. A year earlier, just three weeks into a solo vanlife trip, her free-spirited younger sister, Phoebe, vanished without a trace on the remote, achingly beautiful coastal highway in Western Australia. With no witnesses, no leads, and no DNAevidence, the case has gone cold. But Katy refuses to give up on her.
Using Phoebe’s social media accounts as a map, Katy retraces her sister’s steps, searching for any clues the police may have missed. Was Phoebe being followed? Who had she met along the way, and how dangerous were they?
And then Katy’s path collides with that of Beth, who is on the run from her own dark past. Katy realizes that Beth might be her best—and only—chance of finding the truth, and the two women form an uneasy alliance to find out what really happened to Phoebe in this wild, beautiful, and perilous place.
Thank you to Anna Downes and Minotaur Books for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: August 27, 2024
Trigger warning: missing person, controlling relationship, domestic violence, stalking
Told via multiple POVs that were composed of distinctly clear cut identities that helped heighten suspense, each persona waffled between unreliable and trustworthy. Combined, they took a well-plotted storyline and made it seem like I was peeling an onion until all was revealed. And oh what a storyline that it was. Rife with misdirection and jaw-dropping twists, this was far more than just another reinvention of the missing person trope. Instead there were secrets piled upon lies, all of which came together to build one downright chilling, spine-tingling thriller.
All in all, with a purposeful slow burn plot that felt like a masterfully orchestrated mystery, I was duly impressed. What made it even better, however, was the fast-paced, explosive climax and near-constant palpable tension. Ratcheting higher and higher with each deft reveal, the foreboding made me look over my shoulder as I fully expecting eyes on me as well. Just know that you need to pay close attention to what’s going on. Maybe that way you’ll pick up on the deftly obscured clues that I personally missed. But then, I was just as happy to remain in the dark throughout this unguessable, binge-worthy novel. Rating of 4.5 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
Katy Sweeney is looking for her sister. A year earlier, just three weeks into a solo vanlife trip, her free-spirited younger sister, Phoebe, vanished without a trace on the remote, achingly beautiful coastal highway in Western Australia. With no witnesses, no leads, and no DNAevidence, the case has gone cold. But Katy refuses to give up on her.
Using Phoebe’s social media accounts as a map, Katy retraces her sister’s steps, searching for any clues the police may have missed. Was Phoebe being followed? Who had she met along the way, and how dangerous were they?
And then Katy’s path collides with that of Beth, who is on the run from her own dark past. Katy realizes that Beth might be her best—and only—chance of finding the truth, and the two women form an uneasy alliance to find out what really happened to Phoebe in this wild, beautiful, and perilous place.
Thank you to Anna Downes and Minotaur Books for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: August 27, 2024
Trigger warning: missing person, controlling relationship, domestic violence, stalking
October 12, 2024
Told via three different perspectives, as well as expertly-placed mixed media elements, Red River Road is a gripping and suspenseful Psychological Thriller that successfully kept me on my toes throughout.
I had the pleasure of Buddy Reading this one with a friend, and we were guessing and throwing out theories the entire time. I loved how Downes put this one together.
We learn about Phoebe, an up-and-coming Travel Influencer, whose solo vanlife trip along the coastal road of Western Australia was followed by people all over the world. That is until the day she goes quiet.
Phoebe has disappeared without a trace. We hear about these types of things all the time, but it was still shocking and sad for those who followed, knew Phoebe, or even loved her IRL.
Katy is on a solo van trip of her own. Following Phoebe's social media posts, Katy is desperate to find her. It's during this journey that her path jarringly crosses with Beth's, a woman on the run, full of desperation of her own.
As the two get to know one another, Beth realizes who Katy is; Phoebe's sister. Katy realizes that Beth's knowledge may be the key she needs to reach her goals.
The two agree to work together and travel together, getting Beth farther away from her past, and Katy closer to finally finding Phoebe. At least that's what they hope.
We also follow Wyatt, a boy who lives with his brother and father in the same remote area through which our two women are traveling. How is Wyatt connected to this story?
You'll have to read it, because there's no way I'm telling.
Full of Anna Downes's signature twists and turns, Red River Road reads like a Road Trip Gone Wrong movie come to the page. It's my fave from this author to date.
Once I started, it was nearly impossible to stop. I had to know what was happening. I had so many theories over the course of this, I even began to suspect myself...
Downes keeps her chapters short, and the inclusion of the mixed media made this story even more intriguing. It was like watching a giant puzzle come together.
Each consecutive chapter added one more piece to the bigger picture. I was reading this so fast. I had to get to the bottom of what was going on.
I loved meeting both Beth and Katy. They were so interesting, and while I was captivated by both of their stories, I didn't trust either of them. I kept expecting betrayals and backstabs. I just did not know who to trust.
The conclusion was wild and IMO, readership will be divided on how this ends. For me, I really enjoyed it, although there were some details I got a little confused on towards the end.
I'm pretty sure it is just me though. As in, I missed something as I was rushing through, because I am left with a couple of lingering questions, or things that I think I understand, but am just not 100% sure on.
With this being said, this is one of those rare Thriller/Suspense stories that I would actually read again.
I know Thrillers tend to be best appreciated the first time round; like, once you know, you know. In this case though, I actually would like to reread this knowing the ultimate outcome from the start.
It's a detailed story, with great character work and a lot of different layers. I think I would appreciate the skill it required for Downes to pull this off even more upon reread.
I had a fabulous time with this. The setting was exciting and the twists were off the charts. I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys a fast-paced Travel Thriller. Also, I highly recommend the audiobook format!
Thank you to the publisher, Minotaur Books and Macmillan Audio, for providing me copies to read and review. I can't wait to see what Anna Downes comes up with next!!!
I had the pleasure of Buddy Reading this one with a friend, and we were guessing and throwing out theories the entire time. I loved how Downes put this one together.
We learn about Phoebe, an up-and-coming Travel Influencer, whose solo vanlife trip along the coastal road of Western Australia was followed by people all over the world. That is until the day she goes quiet.
Phoebe has disappeared without a trace. We hear about these types of things all the time, but it was still shocking and sad for those who followed, knew Phoebe, or even loved her IRL.
Katy is on a solo van trip of her own. Following Phoebe's social media posts, Katy is desperate to find her. It's during this journey that her path jarringly crosses with Beth's, a woman on the run, full of desperation of her own.
As the two get to know one another, Beth realizes who Katy is; Phoebe's sister. Katy realizes that Beth's knowledge may be the key she needs to reach her goals.
The two agree to work together and travel together, getting Beth farther away from her past, and Katy closer to finally finding Phoebe. At least that's what they hope.
We also follow Wyatt, a boy who lives with his brother and father in the same remote area through which our two women are traveling. How is Wyatt connected to this story?
You'll have to read it, because there's no way I'm telling.
Full of Anna Downes's signature twists and turns, Red River Road reads like a Road Trip Gone Wrong movie come to the page. It's my fave from this author to date.
Once I started, it was nearly impossible to stop. I had to know what was happening. I had so many theories over the course of this, I even began to suspect myself...
Downes keeps her chapters short, and the inclusion of the mixed media made this story even more intriguing. It was like watching a giant puzzle come together.
Each consecutive chapter added one more piece to the bigger picture. I was reading this so fast. I had to get to the bottom of what was going on.
I loved meeting both Beth and Katy. They were so interesting, and while I was captivated by both of their stories, I didn't trust either of them. I kept expecting betrayals and backstabs. I just did not know who to trust.
The conclusion was wild and IMO, readership will be divided on how this ends. For me, I really enjoyed it, although there were some details I got a little confused on towards the end.
I'm pretty sure it is just me though. As in, I missed something as I was rushing through, because I am left with a couple of lingering questions, or things that I think I understand, but am just not 100% sure on.
With this being said, this is one of those rare Thriller/Suspense stories that I would actually read again.
I know Thrillers tend to be best appreciated the first time round; like, once you know, you know. In this case though, I actually would like to reread this knowing the ultimate outcome from the start.
It's a detailed story, with great character work and a lot of different layers. I think I would appreciate the skill it required for Downes to pull this off even more upon reread.
I had a fabulous time with this. The setting was exciting and the twists were off the charts. I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys a fast-paced Travel Thriller. Also, I highly recommend the audiobook format!
Thank you to the publisher, Minotaur Books and Macmillan Audio, for providing me copies to read and review. I can't wait to see what Anna Downes comes up with next!!!
May 5, 2024
Anna Downes you star! I loved this book so much, and I am never going to forget that ending.. just wow!
This is a different kind of story than Anna’s previous books. A slow burning mystery that will just get into your head. Set on the coast of Western Australia, the beautifully written setting is a big part I& the story. I could see it in my mind so vividly as I was reading, and it made me want to travel there…without all the other scary stuff of course!
This is the story of Katy, who is sick of waiting for the police investigation into her missing sister Phoebe to find anything. She decides to get herself a van and follow her sister trip up the coast. She uses Phoebes Instagram page as a guide, determined to find out what happened a year ago. Where is her sister and why can’t the police find her? Along the way she picks up another two man, who is travelling alone and is hiding things of her own.
With danger at every turn, I was completely engrossed in this trip. Both women are hiding things from each other, and there is more than meets the eye. The people they encounter along the way, the struggles for women travelling on their own, it was all so realistic and I felt like ai was going on this journey with them.
And that ending 😱just wow. So very clever, and the more I think about it the more hints and clues I see that I missed. No spoilers, but it is amazing and you do not want to miss it.
Thanks so much to Affirm Press for sending me this stunning looking ARC. Absolutely loved it. Published in Australia on April 30th
This is a different kind of story than Anna’s previous books. A slow burning mystery that will just get into your head. Set on the coast of Western Australia, the beautifully written setting is a big part I& the story. I could see it in my mind so vividly as I was reading, and it made me want to travel there…without all the other scary stuff of course!
This is the story of Katy, who is sick of waiting for the police investigation into her missing sister Phoebe to find anything. She decides to get herself a van and follow her sister trip up the coast. She uses Phoebes Instagram page as a guide, determined to find out what happened a year ago. Where is her sister and why can’t the police find her? Along the way she picks up another two man, who is travelling alone and is hiding things of her own.
With danger at every turn, I was completely engrossed in this trip. Both women are hiding things from each other, and there is more than meets the eye. The people they encounter along the way, the struggles for women travelling on their own, it was all so realistic and I felt like ai was going on this journey with them.
And that ending 😱just wow. So very clever, and the more I think about it the more hints and clues I see that I missed. No spoilers, but it is amazing and you do not want to miss it.
Thanks so much to Affirm Press for sending me this stunning looking ARC. Absolutely loved it. Published in Australia on April 30th
July 8, 2024
“I just keep thinking about how hard it is to be the detective of your life, and also the mystery of your life.” – Glennon Doyle
What really happened to Katy’s sister?
In this road trip, 3 narrators will give readers their version of a road trip.
Grief struck Katy who wants to desperately figure out what happened to her sister Phoebe when she went on a solo road trip in her van. Then there is Beth who is also a solo traveler escaping an abusive relationship with Lucas. And, finally, Wyatt, the younger brother of Lucas who lives with their father following their mother’s disappearance.
Everyone has their own story. And, unfortunately for me, this is a psychological thriller. (I say unfortunately, because these-type-of-stories have a tendency to create confusion and twists and darkness that take the story down a road that leaves readers a bit exasperated.) At least, this one.
I prefer a good old-fashioned mystery that doesn’t hurt my head with so much twisty darkness. It is also difficult when you have an unreliable narrator, such as Katy.
So, what happens when Katy and Beth connect? Can Beth be trusted? And, what does Wyatt’s point of view bring to the story?
But wait, there might be another narrator? (No spoilers from me.)
The book will give a sense of strong female characters against all odds, but…and there is that but… it will touch on domestic violence, and trauma. And, the risks of stranger danger. On the pretty side…It will be quite scenic with the Australian outback.
The question is, will readers find the conclusion intriguing, satisfying or confusing? With all the red herrings, it will be hard to know how best to decide.
For me, the story didn’t seem to come to life until towards the end, and by then I just wanted the book to end. By then, I seemed more fascinated with the author’s note.
I am probably an outlier here, so please read other’s reviews.
3.5 stars rounded down.
What really happened to Katy’s sister?
In this road trip, 3 narrators will give readers their version of a road trip.
Grief struck Katy who wants to desperately figure out what happened to her sister Phoebe when she went on a solo road trip in her van. Then there is Beth who is also a solo traveler escaping an abusive relationship with Lucas. And, finally, Wyatt, the younger brother of Lucas who lives with their father following their mother’s disappearance.
Everyone has their own story. And, unfortunately for me, this is a psychological thriller. (I say unfortunately, because these-type-of-stories have a tendency to create confusion and twists and darkness that take the story down a road that leaves readers a bit exasperated.) At least, this one.
I prefer a good old-fashioned mystery that doesn’t hurt my head with so much twisty darkness. It is also difficult when you have an unreliable narrator, such as Katy.
So, what happens when Katy and Beth connect? Can Beth be trusted? And, what does Wyatt’s point of view bring to the story?
But wait, there might be another narrator? (No spoilers from me.)
The book will give a sense of strong female characters against all odds, but…and there is that but… it will touch on domestic violence, and trauma. And, the risks of stranger danger. On the pretty side…It will be quite scenic with the Australian outback.
The question is, will readers find the conclusion intriguing, satisfying or confusing? With all the red herrings, it will be hard to know how best to decide.
For me, the story didn’t seem to come to life until towards the end, and by then I just wanted the book to end. By then, I seemed more fascinated with the author’s note.
I am probably an outlier here, so please read other’s reviews.
3.5 stars rounded down.
August 27, 2024
Happy publication day!
4⭐
Genre ~ travel thriller
Setting ~ Australia
Publication date ~ August 27, 2024
Publisher ~ Macmillan Audio
Est Page Count ~ 377 (unnumbered, character titled)
Audio length ~ 12 hours 8 minutes
Narrator ~ Maddy Withington
POV ~ single 1st, multiple 3rd
Featuring ~ missing traveler, on page physical physical abuse, flashbacks
Phoebe is our solo traveler that has gone missing.
Katy is searching for Phoebe.
Beth/Lily has escaped an abusive relationship and is along for the ride to help find Phoebe.
Wyatt is a 15 year old boy whose mother is missing.
With a bit of a confusing start it took me a hot minute to get things straight. After that it was smooth sailing with a steady pace as we searched for answers about Phoebe. We get chapters with her blog posts to help lead us on the trail. And then we slowly learn how Wyatt fits into the story.
Overall, it does a good job of giving off a dangerous and an atmospheric vibe. I don’t know about you, but I'm a big scaredy pants and not a solo traveler type at all. It certainly makes me want to visit Australia one day though. While I wasn’t expecting the main twist, it didn’t fully wow me because I've read it a couple times lately. All in all I'd recommend it.
Narration notes:
Is she Australian or American? It’s hard to tell because she did both well.
There’s an author’s note stating how this book came about and an interview with author Sally Hepworth at the end.
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ Twitter
4⭐
Genre ~ travel thriller
Setting ~ Australia
Publication date ~ August 27, 2024
Publisher ~ Macmillan Audio
Est Page Count ~ 377 (unnumbered, character titled)
Audio length ~ 12 hours 8 minutes
Narrator ~ Maddy Withington
POV ~ single 1st, multiple 3rd
Featuring ~ missing traveler, on page physical physical abuse, flashbacks
Phoebe is our solo traveler that has gone missing.
Katy is searching for Phoebe.
Beth/Lily has escaped an abusive relationship and is along for the ride to help find Phoebe.
Wyatt is a 15 year old boy whose mother is missing.
With a bit of a confusing start it took me a hot minute to get things straight. After that it was smooth sailing with a steady pace as we searched for answers about Phoebe. We get chapters with her blog posts to help lead us on the trail. And then we slowly learn how Wyatt fits into the story.
Overall, it does a good job of giving off a dangerous and an atmospheric vibe. I don’t know about you, but I'm a big scaredy pants and not a solo traveler type at all. It certainly makes me want to visit Australia one day though. While I wasn’t expecting the main twist, it didn’t fully wow me because I've read it a couple times lately. All in all I'd recommend it.
Narration notes:
Is she Australian or American? It’s hard to tell because she did both well.
There’s an author’s note stating how this book came about and an interview with author Sally Hepworth at the end.
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ Twitter
November 1, 2024
Katy Sweeney is looking for her sister Phoebe who vanished a year earlier, just three weeks into a solo vanlife trip on the remote, beautiful coastal highway in Western Australia. As Katy retraces her sister’s steps, her path collides with that of Beth, who is on the run from her own dark past.
The story is told mostly from the points of view of Katy and Beth, with some chapters from the viewpoint of a young boy named Wyatt, whose role in the book becomes clear as the story progresses, as well as excerpts from Phoebe's travel blog. An exceptionally well written novel which had me guessing who to believe from one minute to the next. Many creepy moments leading up to the ending which was phenomenal and totally unexpected.
This is the first book by Anna Downes that I've read but I have a couple of others on my list and I hope to get to them in the not-too-distant future. Also, I love this cover!
My thanks to the London Public Library for the loan of this book.
The story is told mostly from the points of view of Katy and Beth, with some chapters from the viewpoint of a young boy named Wyatt, whose role in the book becomes clear as the story progresses, as well as excerpts from Phoebe's travel blog. An exceptionally well written novel which had me guessing who to believe from one minute to the next. Many creepy moments leading up to the ending which was phenomenal and totally unexpected.
This is the first book by Anna Downes that I've read but I have a couple of others on my list and I hope to get to them in the not-too-distant future. Also, I love this cover!
My thanks to the London Public Library for the loan of this book.
July 25, 2024
This is a well-written, entertaining, fast paced, gripping thriller. It vividly describes vanlife in Australia, and has likable and engaging female protagonists, suspense, mystery, twists and turns, and a satisfying conclusion. Many thanks to St. Martin's Press/Minotaur Books, from whom I received an advanced reader copy of this fantastic story. This is my honest opinion.
August 25, 2024
Katy Sweeneys sister Phoebe vanished last year while on a road trip in Australia. No trace of her or her van were found.
Katy decides to follow her sister’s path and look for her. While out in the middle of nowhere she runs across a girl named Beth with many problems of her own. The two team up and run into lots of trouble.
This was an exciting story with many twists and turns and a shocking ending. I loved it.
Thanks NetGalley and St. Martins Press for this eARC that will be released August 27, 2024!
Katy decides to follow her sister’s path and look for her. While out in the middle of nowhere she runs across a girl named Beth with many problems of her own. The two team up and run into lots of trouble.
This was an exciting story with many twists and turns and a shocking ending. I loved it.
Thanks NetGalley and St. Martins Press for this eARC that will be released August 27, 2024!
July 13, 2024
*https://www.instagram.com/mrsb_book_r...
🛣Actor-turned-author Anna Downes gained notoriety after her previous two novels received international treatment after being translated into ten different languages. Downes is back with Red River Road, an agonizing and alarming tale of travel, exploration, risk, restitution, and mystery. It is a perplexing outback thriller that leaves you with a lasting shaky feeling.
🛣Have you ever considered travelling alone through the dusty roads of outback Australia taking in the spectacular but risky sites of our sprawling country? Phoebe is a woman who decided to embark on an exciting trip solo across the wild Coral Coast region of Western Australia, but just a few weeks into this trek, Phoebe disappears. Phoebe’s sister Katy picks up on her sister’s travel route a year later in an effort to locate her. But this isolated journey becomes much more sinister as Katy encounters peril, mystery, misunderstanding, locked truths and confusion, will Katy uncover the truth about Phoebe?
🛣If you are looking for an outback crime thriller recommendation, this is one you need to look up. I also suggest rather forcibly that you read the author notes and acknowledgments section of Red River Road. It really reiterated what I had read and gleaned experience wise from this book. I read this one quite late into the night and that evening I had a very restless sleep, my imagination ran wild! I think this is a sign that I really connected to the story, it was scary, tense, nerve-filled and realistic. As a resident of Western Australia I was captivated by the social media inserts, travel descriptions and landscape sequences of this tale, Downes did well to capture this department of the novel. The characters felt authentic and I was touched by their quests as well as histories. With plenty of twists, turns and corners, this one builds to a great ending. Most of all Red River Road will have you oscillating between female empowerment and potential violence when it comes to opting to travel independently.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️4 stars, out now!
🛣Actor-turned-author Anna Downes gained notoriety after her previous two novels received international treatment after being translated into ten different languages. Downes is back with Red River Road, an agonizing and alarming tale of travel, exploration, risk, restitution, and mystery. It is a perplexing outback thriller that leaves you with a lasting shaky feeling.
🛣Have you ever considered travelling alone through the dusty roads of outback Australia taking in the spectacular but risky sites of our sprawling country? Phoebe is a woman who decided to embark on an exciting trip solo across the wild Coral Coast region of Western Australia, but just a few weeks into this trek, Phoebe disappears. Phoebe’s sister Katy picks up on her sister’s travel route a year later in an effort to locate her. But this isolated journey becomes much more sinister as Katy encounters peril, mystery, misunderstanding, locked truths and confusion, will Katy uncover the truth about Phoebe?
🛣If you are looking for an outback crime thriller recommendation, this is one you need to look up. I also suggest rather forcibly that you read the author notes and acknowledgments section of Red River Road. It really reiterated what I had read and gleaned experience wise from this book. I read this one quite late into the night and that evening I had a very restless sleep, my imagination ran wild! I think this is a sign that I really connected to the story, it was scary, tense, nerve-filled and realistic. As a resident of Western Australia I was captivated by the social media inserts, travel descriptions and landscape sequences of this tale, Downes did well to capture this department of the novel. The characters felt authentic and I was touched by their quests as well as histories. With plenty of twists, turns and corners, this one builds to a great ending. Most of all Red River Road will have you oscillating between female empowerment and potential violence when it comes to opting to travel independently.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️4 stars, out now!
July 24, 2024
Another brilliant, thrilling ride by talented Australian author Anna Downes! Expect the unexpected and brace yourself!
Australian outback thriller noir at it’s best 🤩
Set along the picturesque Coral Coast of Western Australia and told by multiple narrators, we follow Katy who has gone on a road trip to look for her sister Phoebe, who hasn’t been seen in a year. Along the way she meets traveller Beth who is also hiding a few secrets of her own.
Katy uses her sisters Instagram account to trace the steps she took before she disappeared. Along route theres a strong sense of foreboding and a feeling that they are not alone … not only did I get chills reading this, I am getting the same feeling writing about it!
This was one scary, twisty ride and one of those addictive books that I literally could not put it down. Cleverly and brilliantly written, Downes captures the West Australian coast beautifully, bad ass strong female MCs to perfection while also exploring the trauma inflicted by domestic violence - TWs
Just brilliant with an ending that totally blew me away!
💌 Huge thanks to @affirm and @annadownes for sending me an early copy 🙏
Big thanks to @libby - I listened in part to the audio, narrated by Maddy Withington which was brilliant and I can highly recommend 🎧
Australian outback thriller noir at it’s best 🤩
Set along the picturesque Coral Coast of Western Australia and told by multiple narrators, we follow Katy who has gone on a road trip to look for her sister Phoebe, who hasn’t been seen in a year. Along the way she meets traveller Beth who is also hiding a few secrets of her own.
Katy uses her sisters Instagram account to trace the steps she took before she disappeared. Along route theres a strong sense of foreboding and a feeling that they are not alone … not only did I get chills reading this, I am getting the same feeling writing about it!
This was one scary, twisty ride and one of those addictive books that I literally could not put it down. Cleverly and brilliantly written, Downes captures the West Australian coast beautifully, bad ass strong female MCs to perfection while also exploring the trauma inflicted by domestic violence - TWs
Just brilliant with an ending that totally blew me away!
💌 Huge thanks to @affirm and @annadownes for sending me an early copy 🙏
Big thanks to @libby - I listened in part to the audio, narrated by Maddy Withington which was brilliant and I can highly recommend 🎧
April 30, 2024
Oooh this book is so creepy and suspenseful! I know it’s early in the year, but I’m predicting this will be in my top five of 2024.
Phoebe Sweeney is a young lady who gets some wanderlust and decides to get into #vanlife. She starts an Instagram account, “PheebsInWonderland”, and is documenting her solo journey through The Big Lap - a giant loop around Australia, starting and ending in Perth. We follow her Instagram posts/comments as the book goes on, and one commenter in particular posts some pretty creepy things…
After a few weeks, her posts stop and her family can’t reach her. Phoebe often goes off grid, but they’ve never gone this long without contact. The police get involved, but they come up with nothing - no traces of Phoebe, no sightings of her van, and no witnesses. It’s considered a cold case - just another woman gone missing in the massive state of Western Australia.
Her sister Katy, despite being someone who is scared of this kind of travel, decides to get a van and follow her sister’s social media posts, trying to find any clues or people who may know something. She begins her journey, but as she’s taking a break at the side of the road, someone sneaks into her van.
Beth (who calls herself Lily) is soon found hiding in the van, and after the initial screaming and shock wears off, Katy listens to her story- well, at least Beth’s version of her story. She says her name is Lily, and she’s an American who was also traveling around Australia, but she was attacked and all of her belongings were taken. She’s injured, she has no ID, no money, not even any clothes. Katy relents and lets “Lily” join her on her quest to find her sister.
The book is written from the perspective of three people: Katy, Beth and Wyatt, a 15-year-old boy with a troubled home life. His mother is also a #vanlifer who’s gone missing, and his big brother has been traveling trying to find her, leaving him alone with his angry father. All three of these characters are fantastic, and as the ending approaches, everything about them begins to fall into place.
The ending did get a little crazy, and that’s my only complaint about the book. It’s almost like every twist possible was packed in, and it used a trope that isn’t used often, but is pretty unbelievable. Other than that, this book is flawless. It’s pretty ignorant for anyone traveling (especially a female on their own) to do live updates on social media, and this is a cautionary tale…you never know who’s watching. Packed with breathtaking scenery and a thrilling plot, I loved this book! 4.5 stars, rounded up.
(Thank you to Minotaur Books, Anna Downes and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my review. This book is slated to be released on August 27, 2024.)
Phoebe Sweeney is a young lady who gets some wanderlust and decides to get into #vanlife. She starts an Instagram account, “PheebsInWonderland”, and is documenting her solo journey through The Big Lap - a giant loop around Australia, starting and ending in Perth. We follow her Instagram posts/comments as the book goes on, and one commenter in particular posts some pretty creepy things…
After a few weeks, her posts stop and her family can’t reach her. Phoebe often goes off grid, but they’ve never gone this long without contact. The police get involved, but they come up with nothing - no traces of Phoebe, no sightings of her van, and no witnesses. It’s considered a cold case - just another woman gone missing in the massive state of Western Australia.
Her sister Katy, despite being someone who is scared of this kind of travel, decides to get a van and follow her sister’s social media posts, trying to find any clues or people who may know something. She begins her journey, but as she’s taking a break at the side of the road, someone sneaks into her van.
Beth (who calls herself Lily) is soon found hiding in the van, and after the initial screaming and shock wears off, Katy listens to her story- well, at least Beth’s version of her story. She says her name is Lily, and she’s an American who was also traveling around Australia, but she was attacked and all of her belongings were taken. She’s injured, she has no ID, no money, not even any clothes. Katy relents and lets “Lily” join her on her quest to find her sister.
The book is written from the perspective of three people: Katy, Beth and Wyatt, a 15-year-old boy with a troubled home life. His mother is also a #vanlifer who’s gone missing, and his big brother has been traveling trying to find her, leaving him alone with his angry father. All three of these characters are fantastic, and as the ending approaches, everything about them begins to fall into place.
The ending did get a little crazy, and that’s my only complaint about the book. It’s almost like every twist possible was packed in, and it used a trope that isn’t used often, but is pretty unbelievable. Other than that, this book is flawless. It’s pretty ignorant for anyone traveling (especially a female on their own) to do live updates on social media, and this is a cautionary tale…you never know who’s watching. Packed with breathtaking scenery and a thrilling plot, I loved this book! 4.5 stars, rounded up.
(Thank you to Minotaur Books, Anna Downes and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my review. This book is slated to be released on August 27, 2024.)
July 11, 2024
I struggled with this book a little because of a combination of things. One, I didn't really like or identify with any of the characters and the multiple POVs gave the story an overall choppy feel. I also think because I already read a vanlife/missing girl book earlier this year that completely rocked my world (What Happened to Nina) it was hard not to compare the two. It definitely picked up the last 150 pages, but there was a lot going on. And even though I was excited to see how it all wrapped up, it confused me at the same time. Extra points for the creative twists though!
I've read this authors other two books and honestly enjoyed them more. 3.25 stars.
I've read this authors other two books and honestly enjoyed them more. 3.25 stars.
April 29, 2024
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free, electronic ARC of this novel received in exchange for an honest review.
Expected publication date: Aug. 27, 2024
Anna Downes, author of “The Safe Place”, returns with her new missing person thriller, “Red River Road”.
Katy Sweeney’s sister, Phoebe, disappeared a year ago while on a solo road trip through the Australian outback. Even though no one has heard from her, and there has been no forensic evidence, Katy will stop at nothing to find out what happened to Phoebe. Desperate, Katy embarks on her own solo quest, following Phoebe’s exact itinerary, hoping that she will be able to collect her own clues. When Katy crosses paths with a young woman named Beth, who claims to be fleeing from danger, Katy takes pity and brings Beth along for the ride. Beth agrees to help Katy find Phoebe in exchange for the ride, but what both women discover about Phoebe, themselves and each other, is something neither of them expected.
“Road” is narrated by several characters; Katy, Beth, Phoebe and Wyatt (who we find out has a connection to the other characters, but not until later on in the story). The multi-protagonist format helps to build suspense, as the reader slowly learns more and more about our key players, including how they are all connected. There are a lot of plot lines that Downes manages to connect flawlessly, and by the end of the novel she has tied up all of the loose ends answered any lingering questions.
Downes manages to touch on some pretty wrenching topics in this novel, including intimate partner violence, sexual assault and mental health challenges, so for those who appreciate trigger warnings, well, just be prepared for some pretty heavy subject matter. That being said, Downes manages to cover these topics in a human and honest way, while still making the novel entertaining and unputdownable.
The twists and turns in this one are beyond unpredictable, and although I made a few educated guesses that came close, the truth to what happened to Phoebe was something I never saw coming. Although I have earmarked Downes’ novels for my TBR list, they seem to be ones that I never quite get to. So, though “Red River Road” was my first Downes’ novel, I sincerely hope it won’t be my last.
Expected publication date: Aug. 27, 2024
Anna Downes, author of “The Safe Place”, returns with her new missing person thriller, “Red River Road”.
Katy Sweeney’s sister, Phoebe, disappeared a year ago while on a solo road trip through the Australian outback. Even though no one has heard from her, and there has been no forensic evidence, Katy will stop at nothing to find out what happened to Phoebe. Desperate, Katy embarks on her own solo quest, following Phoebe’s exact itinerary, hoping that she will be able to collect her own clues. When Katy crosses paths with a young woman named Beth, who claims to be fleeing from danger, Katy takes pity and brings Beth along for the ride. Beth agrees to help Katy find Phoebe in exchange for the ride, but what both women discover about Phoebe, themselves and each other, is something neither of them expected.
“Road” is narrated by several characters; Katy, Beth, Phoebe and Wyatt (who we find out has a connection to the other characters, but not until later on in the story). The multi-protagonist format helps to build suspense, as the reader slowly learns more and more about our key players, including how they are all connected. There are a lot of plot lines that Downes manages to connect flawlessly, and by the end of the novel she has tied up all of the loose ends answered any lingering questions.
Downes manages to touch on some pretty wrenching topics in this novel, including intimate partner violence, sexual assault and mental health challenges, so for those who appreciate trigger warnings, well, just be prepared for some pretty heavy subject matter. That being said, Downes manages to cover these topics in a human and honest way, while still making the novel entertaining and unputdownable.
The twists and turns in this one are beyond unpredictable, and although I made a few educated guesses that came close, the truth to what happened to Phoebe was something I never saw coming. Although I have earmarked Downes’ novels for my TBR list, they seem to be ones that I never quite get to. So, though “Red River Road” was my first Downes’ novel, I sincerely hope it won’t be my last.
February 9, 2024
HOLY OLLIE PANTS this was a good book. Amazing. The freaking red herrings and plot line. Add this to your TBR ASAP
September 8, 2024
"Red River Road" by Anna Downes totally captivated me! I'm a sucker for a thrilling story about serial killers and mysterious disappearances, especially when it's set in a vast and beautiful wilderness like Australia. The author kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time, and I couldn't predict where the story was heading. This book is definitely going to be one of my top reads this year!
Thanks to Minotaur Books/Macmillan Audio for allowing access to the ebook and audiobook ARC copies via NetGalley and EW. I love the flexibility of switching between them - it adds to the excitement!
Anna Downes is a new author for me, but after this amazing read, I'll definitely be keeping an eye out for her future work. If you're into nail-biting thrillers with jaw-dropping endings, you have to give this one a try!
#RedRiverRoad #AnnaDownes #NetGalley #Edelweiss #MacAudio2024 #StMartinsPress #MacmillanAudio #MinotaurBooks
Thanks to Minotaur Books/Macmillan Audio for allowing access to the ebook and audiobook ARC copies via NetGalley and EW. I love the flexibility of switching between them - it adds to the excitement!
Anna Downes is a new author for me, but after this amazing read, I'll definitely be keeping an eye out for her future work. If you're into nail-biting thrillers with jaw-dropping endings, you have to give this one a try!
#RedRiverRoad #AnnaDownes #NetGalley #Edelweiss #MacAudio2024 #StMartinsPress #MacmillanAudio #MinotaurBooks
August 2, 2024
I received a free copy of, Red River Road,by Anna Downes, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Katy Sweeney's sister is missing. Phoebe wanted to live the van life in Australia. Can Katy and Beth (her new friend) find Phoebe, dead or alive? A good read, beautiful country, an enjoyable read.
July 27, 2024
This was a pretty twisty thriller with some interesting turns. I did find the first half to be a little slow, but the last part more than made up for that with how action filled it was. Katy is searching for her sister Phoebe. Just over a year ago Phoebe took a trip and posted constantly about vanlife. But when she disappeared no one seemed able to find her at all. Katy has decided to get her own van and follow her sister’s path to try to find some clues the detectives missed. Beth is running with no belongings, no money, and no id. She hides in the back of Katy’s van and begs for help. Soon Beth is helping Katy try to find her sister, but there are all strange things happening. Beth has been keeping some secrets and as she realizes the monster she’s running from may have a connection to Phoebe she panics. I definitely enjoyed this one and recommend it if you like a twisty story.
August 29, 2024
Travel addict, #vanlifer Phoebe is posting daily on instagram about her current solo exploration along the coast of western Australia. Then as quickly as she started her trip, she disappears. One year later sister Katy follows her sister’s traveled route to find her. Along the way she finds stranger Beth (who’s on the run) hidden inside her van, and they team up to find Phoebe. Narrated by Katie, Beth and Wyatt, whose mother vanished, their stories slowly reveal how each of their fates are interconnected. Anna Downes writes exceptionally well by the great depth she gives her characters passing those same feels on to readers.. 1-you never feel safe, 2-at certain points are scared to death, 3-you can’t trust anyone. The atmospheric setting was perfection. If you enjoy unreliable characters with edge-of-your-seat suspense this is the book for you. It’s one wild ride that ended with many unexpected AND unbelievable crazy twists that I literally had to reread for it to register. I absolutely loved the shocking wrap up involving ALL the characters. 4.5 stars — Pub. 8/27/24 🚐🦘
I received an advanced copy from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
I received an advanced copy from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
August 29, 2024
I really enjoyed this one! I was on my toes the entire time! There is a lot of characters so trying to keep up with them
all was a tiny bit confusing but def necessary for the plot.
I was gripped by all of the characters. I needed in their heads because I had no idea what to expect by any of them. You have Katy who is trying to find her missing sister Phoebe who then meets Beth. They both join forces to find Phoebe and along the way things start to unfold.
Theres time jumps so you have to pay attention but every time you get a little glimpse of the past you think you get an idea of what is happening and then the rug just gets pulled out from under you. I didn't finally get what was going on until about 80% and it was a whirl wind.
I look forward to reading this author's previous works.
Thank you Macmillan audio for the gifted copy.
all was a tiny bit confusing but def necessary for the plot.
I was gripped by all of the characters. I needed in their heads because I had no idea what to expect by any of them. You have Katy who is trying to find her missing sister Phoebe who then meets Beth. They both join forces to find Phoebe and along the way things start to unfold.
Theres time jumps so you have to pay attention but every time you get a little glimpse of the past you think you get an idea of what is happening and then the rug just gets pulled out from under you. I didn't finally get what was going on until about 80% and it was a whirl wind.
I look forward to reading this author's previous works.
Thank you Macmillan audio for the gifted copy.
September 3, 2024
What a fascinating novel! I was gripped from the first chapter. I was shocked at all the twists and turns and really appreciated everything I learned from the authors note. The narrator did a beautiful job. I’m looking forward to reading more from this author. Thanks to NetGalley for the chance to review.
March 22, 2024
First off, I love the way this title rolls off my tongue. It is very fun to say. That being said, I also really liked the story about a couple of women traveling by van, one in search of her missing sister, the other on the run from a most awful guy. Both have secrets they have not revealed to each other which kept the thrilling mystery going, and they may or may not have someone following them on every leg of the journey. While there is much danger I found it interesting to catch a glimpse into the #vanlife that people go on in Australia. It made me want to go see all the sites and attractions that Katy and Beth traveled to. Though not with the creepy notes left and stones that mysteriously showed up around their van at night.
This book had just the right amount of creepiness (especially the messages that were left on Phoebe's Instagram) and the things that Wyatt discovered about his family. Despite being so diverse, all the characters end up nicely connected and when all is revealed I had a very satisfying what the heck moment. So, I really liked this book and gobbled it down happily. I do enjoy the books that Anna Downes writes.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance copy of the book to read and review.
This book had just the right amount of creepiness (especially the messages that were left on Phoebe's Instagram) and the things that Wyatt discovered about his family. Despite being so diverse, all the characters end up nicely connected and when all is revealed I had a very satisfying what the heck moment. So, I really liked this book and gobbled it down happily. I do enjoy the books that Anna Downes writes.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance copy of the book to read and review.
August 27, 2024
Red River Road (audio) 5⭐️
This had my attention from beginning to end. My favorite audiobooks don’t just get left in the car. I end up listening every free moment and this is one of those.
Katy is searching for her missing sister, Phoebe, along a popular Australian #vanlife path. Along the way she crosses paths with Beth/Lily who is running from danger and a dishonest past (hence using fake names).
I really like multiple POVs. The narrator did an amazing job with the accents. I could see the ending being “too out there” for some, but I enjoyed the journey and story so much that I was just along for the ride. I didn’t try to figure things out as I read.
Thank you NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for this audio ARC. This review will be shared on NetGalley, Goodreads, and Amazon.
Pub Date: Aug 27 2024
This had my attention from beginning to end. My favorite audiobooks don’t just get left in the car. I end up listening every free moment and this is one of those.
Katy is searching for her missing sister, Phoebe, along a popular Australian #vanlife path. Along the way she crosses paths with Beth/Lily who is running from danger and a dishonest past (hence using fake names).
I really like multiple POVs. The narrator did an amazing job with the accents. I could see the ending being “too out there” for some, but I enjoyed the journey and story so much that I was just along for the ride. I didn’t try to figure things out as I read.
Thank you NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for this audio ARC. This review will be shared on NetGalley, Goodreads, and Amazon.
Pub Date: Aug 27 2024
April 7, 2024
I just finished reading the ARC for Red River Road by Anna Downes and it’s a WOW for me! The story is told from the viewpoint of three characters, Katy, Beth and Wyatt, with posts from a solo female traveler named Phoebe interspersed amongst them. Phoebe was definitely a palpable presence, and while not physically interacting with the three main characters, definitely a presence. I felt on edge the entire time I read, and was definitely kept guessing until the very end. There are a few subplots and a superbly created creepy atmosphere throughout, and so many ways this could have gone! It’s definitely a story that will keep you on the edge of your seat. This book will be released on 8/27/24 and should definitely be added to your TBR list if you’re a fan of dark and twisty, atmospheric, page-turner thrillers. Thank you Anna and Goodreads for the advanced copy! I’m keeping my fingers crossed for a follow up. 🤞🏽 🚐 #solofemaletravel #weneedanother #patientlywaiting
May 9, 2024
Ok. I’ve had this book since February. And I’ve been reading it since, February!! I give up. I’ve tried so hard to like this book and I know it has really good reviews, but I can’t keep torturing myself. It’s very much a slow burn. And I’m the type of person that likes things to pick up quickly and keep me interested. Although it starts off with a bang, it couldn’t hold my attention. I didn’t care about the characters or what happened to the sister. I made it 68% and still had no clue what was going on. The writing is good and atmospheric but I just wasn’t the right audience for this. Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an arc in exchange for an honest review. I tried lol.
June 16, 2024
I am obviously not the intended reader of this book.
I did not like this book at all. Awful writing, terrible story telling, clunky, dull, non engaging... I could go on.
This might be your cup of tea, but it absolutely wasn't mine.
I did not like this book at all. Awful writing, terrible story telling, clunky, dull, non engaging... I could go on.
This might be your cup of tea, but it absolutely wasn't mine.
March 21, 2024
If you’re looking for a roadtrip thriller, this is for you! Set on the coast of Western Australia and truly soooo twisty! My guesses for how it would end changed at least three times and still left me stumped until the very end! I really loved it! So many red herrings but they all worked SO well with the plot and the character arcs. Still shocked by the ending!
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