The book has all the ingredients to unsettle the reader. It’s a thriller and may send chills down one’s spine. The plot is very dark but beautifully written by the British author Lisa Jewell. Laurel Mack, the protagonist and mother of three kids, undergoes an emotional setback when Ellie, the last child disappears one fine day. Ellie is a 15-year-old bright lass and is Laurel’s golden girl. The entire family is stunned and affected by this disappearing incident. Hanna and Jake, the other two kids, their relationship turns sour with their mother post this catastrophe. Laurel’s husband Paul finds new love and tries to move on after both parents for ten years search for Ellie but all attempts turn futile. Paul divorces Laurel. When finally Laurel puts this depressive past behind her she bumps into Floyd, who has a daughter Poppy but she resembles Ellie. The plot is full of tense moments and tugs at one’s heart. 

It has a gripping story and there are chapters where a few of the characters let the reader enter into their thoughts as they share their bit of what they feel and narrate their plight. The plot keeps the reader engaged without any boredom. It’s racy, heartbreaking and very emotional at the same time. Keeps one hooked till the very end. Familial love, yearning, loss, grief, violence, crime, trauma, toxic equations, detachment, attachment and unhealthy obsession define the book. How behaviours and incidents change people it throws light on that. It’s a very moving book as it not only disturbs but also uplifts the reader. Then She Was Gone is a compelling read.