An intriguing mystery that will keep you waiting until the end.

For me, this story has two parts: the mystery and the "babysitting".

I enjoyed the mystery, the Who did this? and the Where is she??? But my favorite part of this book was definitely the plot around the three housemates while babysitting the cute little animals. :) It was the funny side to this story full of drama and crime.

About the audiobook, I have nothing to say besides: great work!

🎧ALC REVIEW🎧
Publication date: August 12, 2025

I don't mean to be rude, but I want my time back. The narrator wasn't the issue. The story was just so long and so boring and barely held my attention.

Thanks NetGalley, the author and Hachette Audio for an advanced listener's copy in exchange for a review.

Lisa Gardner's "Kiss Her Goodbye" is an enthralling addition to the Frankie Elkin series, masterfully narrated by Hillary Huber. The gripping storyline kept me hooked from start to finish, showcasing Frankie's relentless determination and sharp instincts. Gardner's brilliant character development and Huber's captivating narration create an immersive listening experience. A must-read for thriller enthusiasts—definitely deserving of 5 stars!

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. it definitely kept me on my toes and I ended up finishing it in day. overall a solid thriller! the audiobooks for this series are great as well, I listened to the whole series on audio and the narrator is great!

I really like the Frankie Elkin series by Lisa Gardner. This time she's in Tuscon, AZ trying to locate a missing woman. Sabera is an Afghan refugee who is missing and no one but one friend seem to be looking for her. She left behind her husband and 4 year old daughter. Frankie's first order of business is to find a cheap place to live and a job. She jumps right into a crazy situation taking care of a homeowner's pets in exchange for housing. Chaos ensues!

The story is told from two different perspectives. First is Frankie's and the second is Sabera's. Sabera's story tells of her life in Afghanistan and the trials she's faced. The side characters in the story make it extra fun! I really hope the author continues this series. I listened to the audio version, narrated by Hillary Huber and she does an excellent job of making the listener feel like they are right in the middle of the action.

Thank you to Netgalley, Grand Central Publishing and Lisa Gardner for the ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Very interesting book. I loved that it’s set in Tucson! I learned so much about refugees and all they go through. Lisa did a great job painting the picture. I really enjoyed it. Now I need to go back and read the others in this series. Narrator was great. Thanks to NetGalley, author and publisher for an arc in exchange for my honest review.

I liked this one for the most part... I liked the characters and the sad stories of the Afghani women. I didn't like the random information dumps that made this way longer than it needed to be.

Thank you to NetGalley for the arc in exchange for an honest review.

⭐️⭐️⭐️½

I’m giving Kiss Her Goodbye 3.5 stars. Frankie Elkin is back, and she’s still reinventing “missing-persons investigator” like it’s her personal art form. This time, she’s chasing Sabera Ahmadi, an Afghan refugee who disappears in Tucson in a way so baffling the local cops don’t even blink; but her friend knows Sabera would never leave her young daughter, Zahra, behind.

I loved how Gardner doesn’t shy away from social gravity. She weaves race, displacement, trauma, and resilience into the heart of the mystery, which is refreshing in a thriller. Frankie’s quips and deadpan humor are the perfect lifeline through a story so packed with emotional stakes.

The narrative shifts between Frankie’s urgent present and Sabera’s haunting past in Afghanistan. Those flashbacks are heartbreaking and necessary as they cast a meaningful shadow over every twist.

Bonus points for the delightfully bizarre flair: Frankie’s temporary housing? She’s pet-sitting an iguana named Petunia and a brood of snakes. I laughed and then wondered why the heck I’m rooting for a cold-blooded concierge.

Sabera’s husband, Isaad, a brilliant mathematician; Sabera herself, a gifted linguist haunted by war; and Zahra, the four-year-old with a photographic memory, create a trio of characters who are more than their roles in the case. They feel real, complicated, afraid, and fierce.

If you want slick pacing, clever twists, and a heroine who’s funny, flawed, and doggedly dialed into justice, this is a deliciously tense read with real, aching heart. Frankie Elkin remains a character worth following, even if sometimes I wonder if she’s solving cold cases or chasing her own ghosts.

Thank you to #NetGalley and #HachetteAudio for the audiobook ARC.

I think the narrator did an amazing job of showcasing each character and literally giving each character their own voice. I would listen to anything the narrator had.

Sadly this book was not for me after being an avid Lisa Gardner fan and loving all her books. This one just didn’t hit the mark

Not gonna lie. This was my least favorite Lisa Gardner book and I have read every single one of her books and rated them 4 stars or higher.

I was hesitant about the subject matter because it’s not something I know a ton about but I thought I would give it a chance and learn something whilst reading the book.

I did learn a lot about marginalize communities and it did fuel my rage that we are not doing enough but there was just so much going on in the book that I felt like I couldn’t focus on one thing.

Also the ending was so confusing I don’t actually know what happened and don’t know how anything resolved.

The narrator KILLED it though and it bumped my review up to a 3 star because she did the accents and voices and really let the characters shine.

Lisa Gardner is an author that you can count on for a fast paced thriller. This is the latest entry in her Frankie Elkin series, possibly her most socially conscious.
Frankie is on the search for an Afghan refugee named Sabera Ahmadi who went missing in Tucson. As with all of Gardner's books, there is more than meets the eye with the missing woman. Gardner did extensive search on the plight of Afghanistan refugees and it shows. There are many twists and turns in this one.
I was pleasantly surprised to be chosen for an Audiobook ARC. The narrator, Hillary Huber, did a good job.
Overall I give this one a 3.75(rounded to 4 stars).
A big thank you to NetGalley and Hachette Audio for graciously providing an Audiobook ARC in exchange for an honest review.

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.

blog review posted @
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.

Thanks to #NetGalley and #HachetteAudio 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?

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 Hachette Audio for the gifted copy in exchange for a honest review.

I loved being back in Frankie's orbit and this book had so many twists and turns I honestly had no idea what was happening. I loved every single one of those twists though. I loved the quirky side characters as well. They made this book something even more spectacular. I hope we get more books about Frankie doing good deeds and learning more about her and being there through her journey. I also want her to find her own happiness. I feel like she deserves that more than she knows. 4.5 stars. The narrator did an amazing job with this one.
Thanks to Hachette, Netgalley and Lisa Gardner for an ALC.

Kiss Her Goodbye is the fourth book in the Frankie Elkin series. I read the first book in the series, Before She Disappears, but I haven't read any of the others.

If you are a fan of the television shows Tracker and Found, then you will want to read this book. Frankie Elkin investigates cold missing person cases. She takes odd jobs to fund this "hobby" (her word - I think it is more of a passion).

In this novel, Frankie is trying to find a female Afghan refugee who has been missing for weeks. Her "odd" job is much odder than typical. She is working as a pet sitter, but her charges aren't fluffy - they're reptiles!

Since Frankie is in a new town, there really isn't much for readers to catch up on from previous novels. We get a little bit of Frankie's background, so we understand why she does what she does. The characters in this book, though, are great, and I hated knowing that we may never see them again.

Gardner did a lot of research about the fall of Kabul and the reality of Afghan refugees who fled because they had worked with U.S. forces. I know immigration is a hot topic right now, and I'm glad that a spotlight is turned on the difficulty it is for someone seeking asylum in the U.S.

I don't usually listen to thrillers as they can be difficult to follow. But I'm glad I did. Hillary Huber did a great job with the Afghan accent and names.

In the author's note, Gardner admits to taking a lot of creative license to make the story entertaining, but there is enough truth and accuracy in her details that you feel like it is all real.

This was definitely a thrill ride with plenty of action. But there are also a lot of twists and turns as Frankie doesn't always get the whole truth from the characters she interviews.

My review will be published at Girl Who Reads on Wednesday - https://www.girl-who-reads.com/2025/08/go-on-thrill-ride-with-these-2-thrillers.html

I rated this book 3 stars. I enjoy Lisa Jackson's writing style, and I'm a big fan of the true crime genre. However, I wish I had preface this book by reading the other's that came before it, in order to be more familiar with the characters. I think it would have made it more enjoyable. Over all a good audio book though!

This is the fourth book in the Frankie Elkin series. I have only read one other book in the series, and this would be easy to read as a standalone book. Although I really enjoy this series and plan on reading the books that I have missed.

Frankie’s unofficial job is to find people who no one else is looking for. She never knows where a case will take her or who she’ll be looking for she just knows that people need her and this is what she must do. It’s not a job that pays, it is just something that Frankie needs to do.

Frankie is tasked with finding Sabera, a recent Afghan refugee who has gone missing. No one even seems to be looking for her, but her friend knows that Sabera would not leave her daughter behind. This case is way more complicated than Frankie could ever imagine it to be, there is many twists that were so well written and even some very enjoyable funny parts as well.

I really enjoy the way this author writes and have enjoyed every book of hers I’ve ever read I look forward to many more books in the Frankie Elkin series.

Thank you to NetGalley, the audio house, narrator and the author for the opportunity to listen to a complimentary copy of this book in return for a review, based upon my honest opinion

Normally a huge Lisa Gardner fan and her books are usually a 5 star read for me. Didn't love this one as much as I thought I would. I found the mystery to be slow and the plot confusing.