4,5 stars

Thank you #netgalley for my ADC.
I have to say that Alex Finlay rarely disappoints! And this was definitely another winner for me.
I’m always impressed by the way he effortlessly manages to transport seemingly ordinary people into the most surreal scenarios!

The book begins with two bodies discovered in a car at the bottom of a lake. The car belongs to Ryan, a young man currently on a summer trip to Italy. Five years ago, after graduating from high school, he and Alison, his girlfriend at the time, were making out in his car when they were both attacked. That night, Alison and her car disappear and for many years it is suspected that Ryan killed her. It is now up to Deputy Sheriff Poppy McGhee to figure out what really happened that night in light of her new discovery. An encrypted letter left by Alison.

I loved the way we were gradually introduced to the different characters and their stories. Don't worry if nothing seems to make sense at first, because as the story progresses the pieces will fall into place and you will experience those satisfying 'aha' moments.
The complexity of the story was brilliantly executed and had me reeling with the revelations.
I especially loved the part where Ryan was in Italy. You can tell from the small details that Finlay knows what he’s writing about.

The ending had me sitting on the edge of my seat with trepidation.v

If Something Happens to Me is a pacy thriller by Alex Finlay.
In short, for the past 5 years Ryan Richardson has lived with the suspicion of being involved in the abduction of his girlfriend. Trying to put his past behind him, Ryan changes his name and enters law school. Then whilst on a trip to Italy he gets a call that his missing car has been found in a lake with 2 dead men inside it and the only trace of his girlfriend is a cryptic note, ‘If something happens to me’!
This action packed thriller is a non stop multi-layered, twisty tale in the pursuit of the truth and the lengths people go to protect the ones they love. So many layers of mystery that unravels to the very last pages. It’s the first book I’ve read by Alex Finlay and I look forward to reading more from him.
Big thanks to Alex Finlay, Aria and Aries and NetGalley for this eARC which I chose to read in return for my honest review.

A great start and a brilliant premise. Ryan's high school girlfriend disappears and five years later, he has made the difficult decision to move forward with a new identity. But then her car is found at the bottom of the lake with a note for him in it and the whole community's secrets are blown wide open.

Overall an enjoyable read, but it did fall a bit flat in the middle and I found the sheer amount of characters confusing at times, so less characters with more character/plot development would have made for a more gripping read for me.

3 ⭐️ Thanks to Netgalley, Alex Finlay and Head of Zeus for an ARC in return for an honest review.

A Gripping Thriller with Unpredictable Twists

⭐⭐⭐⭐.5

Last year, I had the pleasure of reading two of Alex Finlay's novels, which quickly became two of my favorite reads of the year. So, when I was approved by Netgalley to receive a digital copy of "If Something Happens To Me," my excitement and expectations were sky-high.

In this latest thriller, we follow Ryan Richardson, who has been haunted by the night his girlfriend Ali was abducted five years ago. Despite being the prime suspect, Ryan was never charged, thanks to a lack of evidence and a good lawyer. Now, having changed his name and started law school, Ryan believes he's left his past behind. But when Ali's car is discovered submerged in a lake with two dead men inside and a cryptic note from Ali, Ryan's world is turned upside down.

The discovery sends Ryan on a relentless quest across Europe, from the serene hills of Tuscany to the vibrant streets of Paris, chasing clues and confronting the man who has haunted his nightmares. Meanwhile, a young sheriff’s deputy in Kansas and a mobster in Philadelphia find their lives unexpectedly intertwined with Ryan's search for the truth, adding layers of complexity to the narrative.

One of the standout elements of this book is the characters. Each one is well-developed and thoughtfully crafted, adding depth and dimension to the story. I particularly appreciated that there were no throwaway romances, which can often feel forced and detract from the main plot in thrillers. Finlay ensures that every character and relationship serves a purpose, enhancing the overall narrative.

While I did predict one of the major twists around the 40% mark, it wasn’t confirmed until about 60%, keeping me thoroughly engaged and second-guessing myself. The suspense is palpable, and the stakes feel real and urgent throughout the book.

My only minor issue was with the character of Poppy. At 21, her actions and demeanor sometimes felt inconsistent with her age, making it difficult for me to fully buy into her character. I think making her Dash’s older sister might have added a layer of believability and depth to her role.

Despite this minor gripe, "If Something Happens To Me" is a standout thriller that cements Alex Finlay’s status as one of my favorite authors. It's a must-read for fans of the genre, offering a gripping and twisty narrative that keeps you hooked until the very last page. I eagerly await Finlay's next book!

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

The story centres on Ryan Richardson, a man tormented by a horrific event five years ago: the violent abduction of his girlfriend, Ali, an incident that left him both physically injured and emotionally scarred. The novel dives deep into Ryan's psyche, exploring the weight of suspicion and the quest for redemption.
The book begins with a strong hook, thrusting you into the aftermath of the abduction. Finlay effectively portrays Ryan’s struggle to move on, highlighting his efforts to rebuild his life by changing his name and enrolling in law school. However, the past claws its way back when Ali's car is discovered submerged in a lake, containing two dead men and a cryptic note from Ali herself. This discovery sets off a chain reaction, propelling Ryan into a frantic search for answers.
Finlay's writing is compelling and tight, with each chapter revealing new layers of the mystery. The plot is intricate, weaving together various threads that span different continents. From the picturesque landscapes of Tuscany to the quaint villages of the UK and the bustling streets of Paris, the novel offers a rich, atmospheric backdrop for the unfolding drama. These settings are not just mere backdrops but are integral to the plot, enhancing the sense of urgency and the stakes involved.
One of the strengths of "If Something Happens to Me" is its well-crafted characters. Ryan is a deeply flawed yet sympathetic protagonist. His pain and desperation are palpable, making his journey relatable and engaging. The secondary characters, such as the young sheriff’s deputy in Kansas and the mobster in Philadelphia, add depth and complexity to the narrative. Their own stories and motivations intersect with Ryan's quest in unexpected ways, creating a multifaceted storyline that keeps you guessing.
The novel’s pacing is another standout feature. Finlay balances action with suspense, ensuring that there is never a dull moment. The tension escalates steadily, culminating in a series of twists that are both shocking and satisfying. The book’s conclusion ties up the central mystery while leaving enough ambiguity to ponder the moral implications of the characters’ actions.
In summary, "If Something Happens to Me" is a riveting thriller that combines a gripping plot with well-developed characters and a richly described setting. Alex Finlay has crafted a story that is both emotionally resonant and thrilling, making it a must-read for fans of the genre. The novel’s exploration of themes like trauma, justice, and redemption adds a layer of depth that elevates it beyond a standard mystery, making it a memorable and thought-provoking read.

Ryan changed his last name to Smith after he became suspect number one in his girlfriend Ali's disappearance.
All Ryan can seem to remember about that night is a man, with missing fingers who dragged him out of the car after striking him over the head.
Five years later, Ryan is spending a summer in Italy when the news hits that Ali's car has been found in a lake, with two dead men inside, and no Ali, but a cryptic note in Ali's handwriting "if something happens to me..."
Better yet, why has Ryan seen the man, with the missing fingers, in Italy?!

This story is pieced together in different timelines, so you do have to concentrate.
A number of twists within, although some predictable, it didn't stop me enjoying this book.
Short chapters and a fast paced book, what more could you want?

Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Five years ago, Ryan Richardson's girlfriend, Ali, was kidnapped from their date & has never been found. Ryan has had suspicion hanging over him for all this time, & has never quite been able to put the past behind him. On a summer trip to Italy, Ryan gets a call from his father to say that Ali's car has been found submerged in a lake in their hometown of Leavenworth. There's no sign of Ali, but the car contains two dead men & a cryptic note on an envelope saying "If something happens to me".

Meanwhile back in Leavenworth, new deputy sheriff, Poppy McGee, has the discovery of missing teenager Ali's car happen on her first day in the job. Asked to follow up on any leads or tips, Poppy finds that most of them are as unhelpful as expected, but the investigation takes a strange turn which has Poppy suspecting her own family of being mixed up in Ali's disappearance.

This is a multi-strand plot where the reader hears from both Ryan & Poppy's point of view, alongside a third narrative which deals with the aftermath of a school bullying incident. I was a little perplexed at first how the three were going to dovetail, but the author pulled it all together nicely. It's all a bit improbable, yet extremely readable & it kept my attention well. 3.5 stars (rounded up)

My thanks to NetGalley & publishers, Head of Zeus/Aries, for the opportunity to read an ARC.

An enjoyable, fast-paced crime thriller with multiple perspectives and a compelling story. Ryan Richardson has been in hiding since the tragic night five years ago when his girlfriend Ali disappeared, and he became a suspect. Now, Deputy Sheriff Poppy is investigating the case as Ali's car resurfaces and strange occurrences begin anew. From the very start, I was captivated and thoroughly immersed in each point of view. There was one perspective in particular that left me initially puzzled, as I had no idea how it would connect to the rest of the plot, but when everything clicked, it was incredibly satisfying. Despite some minor annoyances with how one character was handled, I really enjoyed this book. Poppy, in particular, was likable and strong-willed. This author always manages to entertain and make me connect with the narrative.

Firstly , why are people not screaming about this book? I absolutely loved it. From the first page to the last. This story has us bouncing all over the world literally, the UK, Philadelphia, France, Kansas, Italy, but once all the jigsaw pieces are in place…. Just wow!!! This will definitely be in my top 5 reads of the year.

This book is so well written, the plot is so original and well thought out. The story is gripping and thrilling, there are so many characters however this just adds to the overall experience of this book. Usually I’m not one for too many characters but the ones in this story are all relevant and what can I say other than when the dominos fall they fall fast. I’m not going to write anything about the plot as I don’t know where to start without giving anything away so take my advice and read this book ASAP. It will definitely keep you reading late into the night.

Thank you to Alex Finlay, NetGalley and the publisher for my arc of this book

This story started so good. A vehicle is found in a lake with a cryptic note but then I got confused about who was who and it all got a bit confusing. It did get a tad boring in the middle but then it picked up at the end. There wasn't no real twist but it was an okay read.

‘Something’s not right. The puzzle pieces are warped, disfigured.’

The novel opens with a prologue set in Leavenworth, Kansas. Ryan and Alison, high school sweethearts, are about to leave home for different colleges. On their last night at home, they head off in Alison’s father’s BMW to a local lover’s lane near the river. They are parked, when the car door is ripped open. Ryan is knocked out and when he wakes up the following morning, both Alison and the car are gone.

Five years later, in Leavenworth, a car is found in Suncatcher Lake. The finders are a couple of men who were looking for another missing person and whose claim to fame is that they’ve helped solve thirty-two cold cases. Poppy McGee is the (new) deputy sheriff charged with investigating.

In the meantime, Ryan has lived with Alison’s disappearance and the fact that many believe he is guilty for five years. He has changed his name to try to distance himself from the past and has entered law school. And now, when he and his law-school classmates are on a trip to Italy, Ryan’s father calls him to let him know that the car has been found. Inside the car are the bodies of two men, and a bag belonging to Alison. The bag contains an enveloped note. On the outside of the envelope, Alison had written: ‘If something happens to me…’
The story shifts to Philadelphia, where Shane O’Leary lives with his wife Gina and son Anthony. Anthony attends an elite school where he is bullied. And Shane O’Leary wants to know who is involved.

All these threads (and there are a couple of others) are eventually neatly tied together. To disclose more about the story would introduce spoilers and while some elements of the story are predictable, it is the way that Mr Finlay ties all the pieces together that held my attention.

Suspend your disbelief, fasten your seatbelt and enjoy the ride. This is the first novel I have read by Alex Finlay: it won’t be the last.

Note: My thanks to NetGalley and Head of Zeus for providing me with a free electronic copy of this book for review purposes.

Jennifer Cameron-Smith

Years ago Ryan's girlfriend went missing while they were in a lovers lane, he was struck on the head and Ali and her car were both missing. He became the prime suspect but with no proof he was never charged. Ryan moved away, changed his name and is finishing up law school when he hears his girlfriends car has been found in the river with two dead men inside. Not understanding what is going on, he is surprised to see the man he remembers from that night and suddenly he disappears before he can tell Ryan what happened.
This book kept me on the edge of my seat and I flew through it in one night, I couldn't put it down. So many things were going on and I had to know what was next. Highly recommend this book. Thanks to Netgalley, Head of Zeus and Alex Findley for the chance to read this absolutely thrilling book.

Holy s***. That’s exactly what I said at the end of part one. This book was amazing. Alison Lane disappeared one night and her boyfriend was blamed. Two boys find her car at the bottom of a lake. With two dead men. Who are they? How did it get there? Holy cow. So many secrets. So many twists. Awesome book!

If Something Happens to Me by Alex Finlay  is a psychological thriller about a missing girl.

First, let me thank NetGalley, the publisher Head of Zeus/Aries and of course the author, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
 

My Synopsis:    (No major reveals, but if concerned, skip to My Opinions):
Ryan Richardson changed his last name to Smith after his girlfriend Ali was abducted five years ago.  He became a suspect, but there was no evidence.   His only memory of that night was the vague picture of a man with missing fingers, who hit him over the head and dragged him from the car.  Ryan gave up his basketball scholarship, moved from Leavenworth, and now plans to become a lawyer.  But on a summer trip to Italy, he learns that Ali's car has been found submerged in the lake, and inside the car are two dead men.  No sign of Ali.

Ryan is more surprised to see the man that has haunted his dreams since that night.  The man with the missing fingers.  In Italy.

Meanwhile, Deputy Sheriff Poppy McGee has just started a job with the Leavenworth Police department when Ali's car is found. An envelope is also found, with Ali's handwriting, and Inside the envelope is a cypher.  Poppy is in charge of chasing down leads that come in.  But she always goes above and beyond, and is finding that there are a lot of missing pieces to this five-year old case, and she's not being told everything....even by her own family.


My Opinions:
Well, this was a twisty thriller.  Told in multiple perspectives, and in flash-backs, you had to pay attention.  There were a lot of characters, and they all ended up intermingled.  At times I was confused as to who was who -- never a good thing.

I'm not usually a fan of "mob" books, but this was well done.  Sometimes it was hard not to feel sorry for the bad guys...which only proves that this is a very talented author.

There were a number of twists, most predictable, and the major "betrayer" was obvious from the start.  However, it was still a fun ride.

Overall, it was a very fast-moving, and quick read.  Part of that was due to the pace of the story, and part was the short chapters.

Okay, I know, I seem to have a loot of complaints, and yet....I did really enjoy this book.  I will continue to watch for more from this author!

Five years ago, Ryan's girlfriend goes missing during a night out with him - he says she was taken, no one else is convinced, but with no body there is only suspicion rather than arrests. Today, Ryan's at law school, slowly getting over it all - and then her car is finally found, submerged in a lake, bodies inside it...

Alongside Ryan's story, there's also a young district attorney investigating the case and a mobster-ish subplot to go with it. In other words, plenty going on from the beginning and it all comes together in the end.

This thriller was an enjoyable ride for me. I guessed some things, but not others and it kept me up late turning the pages. And that's pretty much what I wanted when I picked the book up, so job done!

I loved this book. It was fast paced, I connected to the characters and also, although I thought I knew where this book was going, I definitely didn't.
It kept me in suspense and the ending was good. It was an enjoyable easy read.
Can't wait to read more from this author.

Thank you to Netgalley and Head of Zeus, Aries for the arc of If Something Happens to Me by Alex Finlay

5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
If you have read any of Alex Finlay's previous books like Every last fear or The night shift then you'll love this for sure! So captivating, gripping and had me wanting more! Twist after twist had my heart pounding HIGHLY RECOMMEND I LOVED THIS!

Alex Finlay is a master at interweaving a story. Three stories - a young man searching for his abducted girlfriend, a mob boss with revenge on his mind and a cop investigating a five year old cold case - all with seemingly no connection smashed into each other and had my jaw on the floor at the end of part one. I never saw that coming. Highly recommend.

Really well written taut thriller that moves at a great pace. Very similar writing style to Harlan Coben’’s one off thrillers. Overall a great, if slightly implausible read. Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for giving me access to an early copy of this book.

I was enjoying If Something Happens to Me by Alex Finlay until I got about halfway through... and then there's a twist that completely astounded me. Upping this book's ante. A lot. Suddenly everything made sense. Threads connected.


The only thing that didn't entirely make sense was the fact that this was partially set in several countries. It seemed unnecessarily complicated that Ryan happened to be holidaying in Italy (rather than at college back home) when he's approached by the man he claims took Ali. I realise the suspect wouldn't have wanted to return to the US but it felt like there were other ways to bring him into the story. Though, we do also visit the UK and France as this story unfolds, so... perhaps Finlay enjoyed some travel-based research. 

The timing of the approach is coincidental however, as the suspect is trying to get Ryan to change his account from five years earlier, and at the same time Ali's car is being discovered, offering up fresh clues as to her fate. 

This story is pieced together in several timelines. It's difficult to explain so I won't even try though it's not confusing or complicated. We have a few narrators - there's Ryan of course in the present and past, and there's newly-minted cop Poppy McGee, who's left the army returning to her hometown and her ailing father. Poppy's brother was a classmate of Alison and Ryan's and the Sheriff a friend of her father's. And then there's Shane O'Leary a 'businessman' living in Philadelphia, devoted to his wife and son but we soon learn he's far from a nice guy. 

I really liked (most) of the characters Finlay offers up but the genius of this book is the way in which Finlay pulls the threads together. And though we're dealing with some low-life thugs Finlay's able to imbue a sense of gradience. There are things good men and women are forced to do (or willingly do), and likewise there are lines in the sand that some baddies won't cross. And what Finlay offers here are many shades of grey, all wrapped up in a feasible but surprising narrative.