2.44k reviews for:

When She Returned

Lucinda Berry

3.78 AVERAGE

dark emotional fast-paced
nicnacsmom's profile picture

nicnacsmom's review

5.0
challenging dark emotional mysterious tense fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: No
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated

Expand filter menu Content Warnings
challenging dark mysterious tense fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: No

What is their to say about this? It was good and honestly one of my favorite’s by Lucinda.

But at the same time this was disturbing to me as someone who was raised in a church setting. The one character in this book while in a very more disturbing setting then the evangelical church I went to, it still made me relate to all of the things people in that setting will say to keep you coming back for more. I walked away from that life after being brought up in it for well over 20 years and as I look back and realize how manipulative so much of that was I am so thankful I got out. 

This book hit very close to home, but it was so well written. I found myself able to relate to Kate to an extent and found myself very enraged at moments with the people she escaped from. But the way Lucinda wrote in the very verbiage and tactics these people use was so well done! Very good read!! 

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dark emotional mysterious tense fast-paced

Solid 3.5, was not a twisty thriller book
thejellyfishjournals's profile picture

thejellyfishjournals's review

5.0
dark mysterious sad tense fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

"When She Returned" by Lucinda Berry is a gripping psychological thriller that delves into the complexities of trauma, resilience, and the haunting effects of the past. The novel revolves around Kate Bennett, who returns home after being abducted over a decade ago. Her reappearance sends shockwaves through her family and the small community, uncovering buried secrets and testing fragile relationships.

Berry masterfully explores the psychological aftermath of abduction and the challenges of rebuilding a shattered life. The characters are vividly drawn, each grappling with their own demons and struggles as they confront Kate's return. The author's prose is taut and atmospheric, creating a sense of unease that intensifies with each page.

The narrative is structured to keep readers on edge, alternating between past and present to gradually unravel the mystery of Kate's disappearance and her current struggles. Themes of guilt, forgiveness, and the impact of trauma are skillfully woven into the plot, adding depth and emotional resonance.

Overall, "When She Returned" is a compelling read that combines suspense with poignant explorations of human resilience and the complexities of familial relationships. Lucinda Berry's ability to blend psychological insight with a gripping storyline makes this novel a standout in the genre of psychological thrillers.


I read this book in one day. One of the quickest reads I've ever picked up. Read this book today, I doubt you'll regret it.
mysterious fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: No
Diverse cast of characters: Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes
dark fast-paced
ctidwell03's profile picture

ctidwell03's review

3.5
mysterious tense medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes