When a desperate family implores her to track down a woman who may not want to be found, Grayson Sykes unravels violent secrets that embroil her in an increasingly dangerous game of cat and mouse.
... delivers a perceptive and unique look at domestic abuse, sexism, racism and identity under the guise of a private eye novel that emphasizes character studies ... Howzell Hall’s smart plotting is fueled by the razor-sharp characters whose motives are believable ... moves at a brisk pace as Grayson’s emotional strength builds from her developing aptitude as an investigator ... takes [Hall's] writing to another level.
... complex, emotionally charged ... This #ownvoices mystery keeps to a fast pace and has plenty to say during the ride, offering a strong, likable sleuth. Her will-they-won't-they dynamic with sexy, honorable Nick adds a sweeter layer of tension in an already suspenseful atmosphere, but Hall also showcases a dynamic cast of supportive women coworkers ... Domestic abuse acts as a through line in the plot, and Hall portrays her characters as survivors with complex inner lives, not as helpless victims. Questions abound and should confound readers as much as they do Gray. The twisted answers will likely appeal to Gone Girl fans. And Now She's Gone combines heart, smarts and wit in one package.
... Plenty of twists and turns drive the plot in a fast-paced, mostly thrilling journey. Hall does a masterful job of rendering how Gray’s history coincides with the case she is working on ... Hall’s dark humor prevents the book from falling into preachiness ... The fast-paced read may be too much for some people—once you get going it really is hard to put this book down–– but it makes a satisfying couple of evening’s worth of entertainment.