If Something Happens to Me

If Something Happens to Me by Alex Finlay
5/28/24; 336 pages
Minotaur

If Something Happens to Me by Alex Finlay is a very highly recommended fast-paced, action-packed, intelligent thriller. This one was un-put-downable.

Five years ago in Leavenworth, Kansas, high school sweethearts Ryan Richardson and Alison Lane were on a date when he was yanked out of the car. He was left knocked out and she and her car disappeared. Suspicions ran high that Ryan was responsible, but there was no proof, but he was harassed enough that he changed his last name. Now Ryan is in law school at Georgetown and traveling with classmates in Italy, but he still thinks of Alison and the vague recollection he has of a man he saw that night, a man with missing fingers.

Now in Leavenworth on Poppy McGee's first day as the new Deputy Sheriff a car is found submerged in a lake. It is the car Alison was driving, but she's not in it. Two dead men are. Alison's purse is in the car and an envelope is found with the words "If something happens to me..." written on it.

Shane O'Leary, a mobster in Philadelphia has a son who is being bullied in school. His wife, Gina, is frantic. O'Leary turns to his accountant who has a daughter at the same school to fix the problem. And there are a few other characters along the way.

Once you start reading If Something Happens to Me it will be hard to put down. This is a smart, creative thriller full of tension, action, suspense, and unexpected twists. The pace is fast and relentless. Every different character, storyline and setting is interesting and compelling. 

The beginning of each chapter helpfully informs you of the location and characters to help keep readers on track. While reading, you will question how all the storylines fit together, but it will soon become clear and along the way there will be a few surprises. The chapters are short and the pace is lightning fast.

The characters are all unique, interesting, fully-realized individuals and you will either care about what happens to them or be concerned how they fit into the plot. There may be some suspension of disbelief required, but it is easily done so you can find out what happens next. Most importantly, this was enjoyable and a pleasure to read.Thanks to Minotaur for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.