Kiss Her Goodbye is the latest Frankie Elkin book by Lisa Gardner. Frankie finds herself in Tucson searching for Sabera Ahmadi, an Afghan refugee who has gone missing. The police aren't looking, the husband is a little suspicious, and Aliah, Sabera's friend, is very concerned. As Frankie investigates (and cares for snakes and an iguana!) the stakes get higher and higher, and the complexities of the mystery deepen.

This was an interesting and engaging mystery. I enjoy Frankie's quick wit, and I loved the characters in this story. I'm looking forward to more Frankie in the future.

Overall, I highly enjoy Lisa Gardner's books and the Frankie Elkin series. This book read like a return to form, in a sense. In the first Frankie Elkin book, Gardner brilliantly blends factual information and informed perspectives on a marginalized community while also writing a compelling mystery. While I enjoyed the past two entries, I felt they lacked the educative approach of the first novel. Kiss Her Goodbye does this well, teaching readers about the Afghan community, the brokenness of our immigration and social services systems, and the unique challenges faced by individuals who are new to the United States. What I did not like about this book is the ending. There is an overabundance of reveals and twists, which detract from the intrigue I had earlier in the book. A section of dialogue summarizes this perfectly:

"Direction, Misdirection. Followed by direction. Misdirection. Resulting in..."
"No one knowing what the hell to believe."

Here, Gardner effectively summarizes the novel's greatest weakness. The realism of the characters is lost in baffling developments of increasing implausibility. Still, this book has much to offer and is perhaps my favorite in the series. It is incredibly timely. I look forward to meeting Frankie Elkin again soon.

Frankie is back! I love these books because while they follow the same main character, each book can be read as a standalone. The characters are so diverse and distinct, and the setting was easy to picture in my mind.

This book was fast-paced but in a different way from my favorite of hers, One Step Too Far. Less action packed and more quick-witted mystery. I will say it was little hard to follow at times, but it wrapped up well in the end.

I have to admire Lisa for tackling such intense subject matter as the Afghan refugee experience. In her Acknowledgements, she talked about how she interviewed several refugees and was amazed by their resilience in the face of hardship. This book definitely shows that side of the human experience.

🪴| Overall good read. Enjoyed the writing style and audio. It was just a lot of moving parts for me. I’ll have to check out more titles earlier in the Frankie installments.

In the beginning of this book, the pacing was a bit slow, and I'm not going to lie, the reptile babysitting threw me so off guard, but I knew that it would play a bigger part in the story later on (or at least I had hoped it would). I wouldn't say that there were constant twists and turns that kept me on my toes, but there was enough happening to keep me intrigued as to what would happen next. However, the ending REALLY held onto my attention and I just couldn't put it down. It was just so far from what I expected to happen.

Thank you to Grand Central Publishing, Lisa Gardner, Hachette Audio, and NetGalley for the ARC of this book. This is my honest review.

KISS HER GOODBYE, the third installment in the Frankie Elkin series. Frankie travels to Tucson, AZ, to look into Sabera Ahmadi, a young Afghan refugee who vanished without a trace three weeks prior. Sabera’s friend insists she would never willingly leave her small child behind. Meanwhile, her husband appears indifferent to her disappearance. When a video emerges showing Sabera fleeing the scene of a double murder, questions arise about her motivations and what she might be running from or toward.

The story is told from Frankie and Sabera’s perspectives. Sabera’s fascinating story is full of heartache, and Frankie is intuitive and resilient as always. The plot pulls you in right away, and the story is thrilling with many twists that become more complicated as it progresses. KISS HER GOODBYE was my first book in the Frankie’s series, and although there were references to the previous books, it is a well-written mystery that can be enjoyed as a standalone.

Thank you to NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing for the advanced reader’s copy in exchange for an honest review. And of course, thanks to Lisa Gardner for this delightful read and author’s note providing a glimpse into the inspiration behind the novel.

I received an advanced review copy and I am voluntarily leaving a review. All thoughts are my own.

I am a fan of Lisa Gardner’s writing but I hadn’t read anything of her Frankie Elkin’s series before this book. Thankfully, it did quite well as a standalone. There were a few references to events that happened in prior books but did not negatively affect my reading experience.

I loved the detail and research that went into portraying a refugee family from Kabul who relocated to Tucson. Would love to know if a person from a similar background would also find it to be realistic.

The storyline had me invested right from the start and the twists and turns kept me turning the pages faster and faster!

This is a tough review to write.

Lisa Gardner has long been one of my favourite authors and my go to when I need a guaranteed great read. This time, though, I found my attention drifting more than usual. I stayed curious enough to keep reading, but I realised I wasn’t fully taking in the story. So for now, I’m choosing to set it aside.

The story begins with Frankie searching for a missing woman. Sabera’s perspective as a refugee fleeing Afghanistan after the Taliban took over Kabul was a fresh and important part of the narrative. Frankie also meets some interesting characters along the way, which added depth to the story.

The refugee angle isn’t something I usually gravitate toward, but as a loyal Lisa Gardner reader I wanted to give it a chance. As the plot unfolded, it became a bit tangled for me, making it harder to stay fully engaged.

That said, this absolutely won’t stop me from reading Lisa Gardner’s books. She’s an author I’ll always return to, and I might even pick this one up again someday if my mood swings that way.

Thank you to NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing for my digital review copy.

Thank you netgalley for the early copy of the ebook and the audiobook!! this is the 4th book in a series but it can be read alone. overall a solid thriller! it definitely kept me on my toes and I ended up finishing it in day. the audiobooks for this series are good as well, I listened to the whole series on audio and the narrator is great!

I enjoyed this one a lot. I’ve read some Lisa Gardner in the past and it’s been a while, but it felt like this matched the signature style she’s liked for. I also appreciated both the setting of Tucson and the diverse cast that educates the reader about international affairs. Also, as someone who’s lived in Tucson for quite a while, it feels like authors struggle to get the details and the feel of the city right, I appreciated that this book did get it right.

Believe it or not this is my first Lisa Gardner and I didn't realize it was book 4 in a series. Fortunately there was enough exposition to follow the story.
The plot is about an Afghani refugee. The story begins in Afghanistan as the US is leaving and the Taliban arrive. There is a secret that pervades the book, that we do eventually learn.
Frankie Elkin finds lost people, apparently usually after they are dead.She does not charge for this and I may have to read previous books. I know I will have to read the next as the book ends on a cliffhanger.
I learned quite a bit from this book, how refugees are settled, that Tucson has a large Afghani population, that I want to try some Afghani food. and especially that there is a non profit still trying to bring people who helped the US here. Gardner encourages readers to donate. However, I am worried that this administration will be sending people back rather than having them come here.
This is a good mystery with some interesting characters and some surprises. Also might have you wanting to get an iguana.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the EARC. This is my honest review.

A fantastic, thrilling mystery in Tucson!

I am not sure I have the words to describe how great this book was. In the fourth of the series, Frankie Elkin is in Tucson, Arizona, to search for a missing woman. Sabera Ahmadi is an Afghan refugee who has been recently resettled in Tucson. With her is her stern older husband and young, gifted daughter. Frankie barely starts the search when Sabera is seen leaving the scene of two horrific murders. Frankie suspects someone is targeting the family when the husband disappears too. She relies on her new friends to help solve this mystery fast before anyone else dies.

On one level, you can experience a thrilling story of espionage, treasure hunt and suspense. On another level, a deeply moving tale of the refugee experience and the human cost of war. This is such a well-written mystery. Lisa Gardner writes with compassion as one who has listened to first-person accounts.

It is a heartbreaking look into Afghan refugees and the complicated stories they bring with them to a new life. A warning that it talks about the deplorable conditions that some endure in refugee camps. I have assisted refugees in an educational setting. Many are dealing with heart-rending backgrounds and PTSD from the terrors they endured. So much of the situations in the book rang true for me.

I highly recommend this thrilling story! It has an intriguing mystery and non-stop action. The bonus is how well-researched it is and the tug-at-your-heart character development. Get it now, you will be thinking of this one long after you finish it.

Thank you to Grand Central Publishing and NetGalley for access to a digital ARC.

Frankie Elkins returns with a complicated “case”. In this book, Frankie is searching for a missing refugee who recently moved to Tucson, AZ. There is much more to this woman than meets the eye. As the story progresses, so do the complications, twists and turns. While the novel is told from the current day, we also see the lead up to the missing. This is another winner, and I look forward to the next installment.

In the highly anticipated fourth installment of her gripping Frankie Elkin series, Lisa Gardner (a favorite author) returns with yet another thrilling tale, KISS HER GOODBYE.

This action-packed emotional narrative is not only meticulously researched but also artfully crafted, weaving a tapestry of tension and intrigue that will leave readers breathless.

Set against the vibrant backdrop of Tucson, Arizona, Frankie embarks on a poignant mission to locate an Afghan refugee. As she navigates the sun-soaked streets and hidden corners of the city, the story unfolds with a haunting mix of suspense and unexpected humor.

Each twist and turn keeps readers entranced, immersing them in a world where the stakes are high and the search for the missing becomes a deeply personal journey. Prepare to be captivated as Gardner expertly blends intensity and wit, ensuring that you remain glued to the pages from beginning to end.

About...

Frankie Elkin, a troubled former alcoholic haunted by her past, with a heart of gold, beckons us into her tumultuous world as she immerses herself in the gripping search for missing persons and unresolved cold cases.

Lacking formal training, her pursuit is fueled by an all-consuming obsession to help those who have vanished, driven by an unwavering sense of responsibility. With no stable home, family ties, or conventional job to anchor her, she roams freely, following her instincts wherever the next clue might be found.

In this haunting narrative, Frankie finds herself amidst the desert beauty of Tucson, Arizona, at the earnest request of Aliah, a compassionate and tireless volunteer committed to refugee resettlement. Aliah is frantic to locate her friend, Sabera, an Afghan refugee who has mysteriously disappeared, leaving behind her cherished four-year-old daughter, Zahra, and her husband, Isaad.

The idea that Sabera could abandon her innocent child is a notion that weighs heavily on Aliah’s heart, prompting Frankie to delve deep into this perplexing case that illuminates the plight of a population often shrouded in neglect and misunderstanding.

As Frankie embarks on her investigation, the atmosphere thickens with tension when Isaad receives a cryptic package that sends him spiraling into a state of panic. Fearful for his family's safety, he hastily leaves Zahra in the care of a trusted neighbor before vanishing into the night, adding urgency to Frankie’s quest. The air crackles with suspense when an attempted kidnapping of Zahra unfolds, amplifying the stakes and the sense of dread that permeates the community.

Just as the mystery deepens, a chilling twist emerges: security footage reveals Sabera at the scene of a brutal double homicide, where two men lie lifeless, shadows of their former selves.

With each revelation, it becomes painfully clear that there is much more lurking beneath the surface of this convoluted tale. Is Sabera herself in grave danger, caught in a web of malevolence? What dark motives are swirling behind these harrowing events?

As Frankie races against time, the tangled threads of Sabera’s disappearance, Isaad’s fate, and Zahra’s safety lead her deeper into a labyrinth of intrigue and peril, challenging her resolve and forcing her to confront the demons of her past.

My thoughts...

EXCEPTIONAL! Gardner brilliantly escalates the intensity and suspense in this action-packed thriller, delving deep into the harrowing realities of refugee camps and the emotional turmoil faced by immigrants desperately seeking a better life in the U.S.

In her signature style, the author infuses Frankie's genuine humor into the narrative as she embarks on a quest for living accommodations amidst her investigation. She stumbles upon a luxurious mansion complete with a personal driver, a shimmering pool, and a skilled cook. The enticing offer comes with a twist: she must house-sit and care for exotic pets for an entire month in exchange for her lavish lodging.

What Frankie doesn’t anticipate, however, is the presence of Petunia, a majestic iguana stretching four to five feet in length, alongside Marge (python) and her lively baby pythons! This unexpected menagerie is certainly more than she bargained for, especially since Frankie isn’t particularly fond of scaly creatures. You will find yourself laughing heartily at the chaotic antics of Frankie, Bart, Daryl, and their unusual animal companions—although I would likely be running for the nearest exit!

I adore Frankie! She embodies strength, courage, and resilience, demonstrating an unyielding spirit that never backs down. Her delightful sense of humor only adds to her charm, making me eager to see where her adventurous spirit will lead her next.

Once again, Lisa showcases her exceptional talent. Devoted fans (such as myself), as well as new readers, will be swept away by this exhilarating journey. I highly recommend experiencing the entire series to fully appreciate the depth of Frankie’s character, even though each installment offers its unique adventure.

I was particularly captivated by the author’s note, which provided a glimpse into the inspiration behind the novel and the fascinating background stories woven throughout. The author's passion for travel and adventure radiates from every page, creating an engrossing narrative that lingers in your thoughts long after you've turned the last page.

Audiobook...

I had the distinct pleasure of immersing myself in both the digital copy and the audiobook of KISS HER GOODBYE, expertly narrated by the incredibly talented Hillary Huber (an all-time favorite). Her performance is nothing short of award-winning; she deserves a medal for her incredible range in portraying numerous characters, each with its unique accents. Huber masterfully infused the narrative with layers of emotion and suspense, breathing life into the rich tapestry of characters and leaving me utterly captivated from beginning to end. I cannot recommend the audiobook highly enough—it's an experience you won't want to miss.

KISS HER GOODBYE is a multi-faceted, riveting, and profoundly impactful novel that delves into the heart-wrenching struggles and traumas faced by refugees and immigrants. It is a timely exploration of resilience and hope that resonates deeply in today’s world.

Having spent a considerable amount of time in the enchanting landscapes of Tucson and Bisbee, Arizona, where I worked with resort properties, I cherished the opportunity to revisit these vibrant settings through the pages of this novel that the author so vividly captures.

Recs...

This gripping narrative is perfectly suited for fans of the Frankie Elkin series and the author herself. It will also resonate with readers who appreciate the exhilarating suspense and strong female leads found in the works of Karin Slaughter, Tess Gerritsen, and Sara Paretsky. Furthermore, those who enjoy the intricate plotting and rich character development crafted by authors like Lisa Jewell, Stacy Willingham, and Shari Lapena will undoubtedly be drawn to the compelling universe of Frankie Elkin.

Special thanks to Grand Central Publishing, Hachette Audio, and NetGalley for providing an advanced reading and listening copy for my honest thoughts.

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JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
Pub Date: Aug 12, 2025
My Rating: 5 Stars
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I went into this thinking it would be more of a twisty psychological thriller, but it is not. So once I got over that and realized it's more of a fiction/mystery, I was able to really get into the story and connect with both the plot and the characters. From that vantage point, I really liked this book. This is book #4 in the "Frankie Elkin" series but it's the first I've read and I didn't feel like I had missed anything (so I believe it's a stand alone from that perspective). I liked the humor of some of the side plots/characters and the representation of middle East. I had the pleasure having both the print and audio ARCs--the narration was absolutely fabulous and really added an element to the book and increased my engagement. *I received a complimentary audio and e-ARC from the author/publishing company via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts & opinions are my own.

Sabera Ahmadi has been missing for three weeks and no one seems concerned, the police haven't opened a case and her husband does not seem worried. Her best friend talks missing persons expert Frankie Elkin into opening up a file. As Frankie is getting ready to start looking for Sabera a video shows up showing her walking away from a double murder. As Frankie gets into her investigation she realizes that the Ahmadi family have more going on under the surface. When someone else goes missing Frankie knows she must work harder to figure out what is going on with this family. Follow along and see if Frankie can help this.family.before it is destroyed.

Thanks to #NetGalley and #GrandGentralPublishing for the book #kissHerGoodbye by #LisaGardner. I am a huge Frankie Elkin fan and this book is simply marvelous. Frankie had agreed to look for missing refugee, Sabera, who had a husband and four year old daughter. They all have special abilities, husband is a mathematician, daughter has an unforgettable memory and mother is a linguist. Frankie sets out to find out about the missing mother and her past and gets in trouble, Frankie style. Can she solve the mysteriousness of this case and bring Sabera home?

Kiss Her Goodbye is the fourth gripping installment in Lisa Gardner’s Frankie Elkin series, and it doesn’t disappoint. Once again, we follow Frankie—an unconventional, fiercely determined woman who devotes her life to finding the missing people no one else is looking for. This time, the case hits even closer to the heart, as Frankie searches for a refugee trying to rebuild her and her family's life in America.

Frankie remains one of the most fascinating protagonists in crime fiction. She’s quiet, smart, and underestimated by nearly everyone she meets. But beneath her unassuming exterior lies a steely resolve and scrappy resourcefulness that makes her unforgettable. Gardner deepens our understanding of Frankie while also throwing her into one of her most emotionally charged investigations yet.

Given the current climate surrounding immigration and refugee issues in the U.S., this story feels especially poignant and timely. At times, it’s a difficult read—not because of the writing, which is excellent as always—but because of how real and raw the stakes feel. Gardner doesn’t shy away from the complexities of the system or the human cost, making this novel not just a thriller but also a sobering look at contemporary issues.

As with the previous books, the pacing is tight, the suspense never lets up, and the emotional payoff is worth the journey. Kiss Her Goodbye proves once again that Lisa Gardner knows how to tell a compelling story with heart, urgency, and grit. I still really miss DD Warren & the Kimberly/Quincy Pierce though...
Thank you NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing for the ARC!

This is my first book in the Frankie Elkin series, which you can read as a standalone and not miss anything. I wanted to love it but just could not get into it. It kind of just dragged for me. I have read other books by Lisa Gardner which I enjoyed more so I think it was just the story for me.

Thanks to NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing for the gifted copy in exchange for a honest review.

This is a tough one.
I’m an avid Gardner reader. I own at least a dozen of her books. Auto-buy author!

So it hurts me to say. This wasn’t for me.

It starts off rather normally. Frankie is searching for a missing woman. Sabera is a refugee fleeing Afghanistan after the Taliban take over Kabul. It was interesting seeing Sabera’s POV for some chapters. There were also some great characters that Frankie meets on her journey.

The refugee aspect of the story isn’t something I would normally pick up. But I read all of Gardner’s books, so I continued. The storyline takes some serious turns that had things feeling more and more convoluted. It was just too much for me.

This absolutely won’t stop me from continuing to read her books.