Next to Disappear: A Dark Psychological Crime Thriller

· The Emily Swanson Series Book 1 · Storm House Books
415 reviews
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About this ebook

Not every missing person is meant to be found...

When troubled nurse Alina vanishes without a trace, everyone assumes she ran away from her abusive husband. But when disgraced ex-teacher Emily Swanson moves into the couple’s former home, she discovers that Alina’s disappearance is anything but straightforward.

Desperate for a fresh start, Emily is determined to leave her own troubled past behind. But when she learns about the missing nurse, she sees a chance for redemption. Solving the mystery could help right her own wrongs.

But Alina had a dark secret—one connected to the hospice where she worked. And the closer Emily gets to uncovering the truth, the closer she gets to a danger far worse than she ever imagined…

Inspired by a shocking true crime, Next to Disappear is the first book in Malcolm Richards' twisty British psychological thriller series.

"Electrifying... Should surely be on TV." — The Bookseller


The Complete Emily Swanson Series:

1. Next to Disappear

2. Mind for Murder

3. Trail of Poison

4. Watch You Sleep

5. Kill for Love

6. Wish Me Dead (Prequel Novella)


Revised Edition: This book was previously published under the title 'Lost Lives'.

Not every missing person is meant to be found... When troubled nurse Alina vanishes without a trace, everyone assumes she ran away from her abusive husband. But when disgraced ex-teacher Emily Swanson moves into the couple’s former home, she discovers that Alina’s disappearance is anything but st...

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Ratings and reviews

415 reviews
Lori Pike
July 8, 2026
In my opinion this book is a prime example of people caught up in their own superiority. Did they actually think they were doing good or all caught up in the experiment? I would recommend it and probably read it again.
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Heather W
January 31, 2020
Next To Disappear is the first book in the "An Emily Swanson Mystery Thriller" series. This story has well-developed characters that are interesting and complex. The storyline is well written and gripping, keeping me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. Knowing that it is based upon a true crime makes this book even more interesting. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
19 people found this review helpful
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Denise Van Plew
December 19, 2020
This is my first time reading this author but had seen the books around that I finally gave into temptation. I have become quite a fan of thrillers. So when I opened this one I was swept away right from the start. When a nurse vanishes there are those assumptions. When Emily whom we meet in this is trying to start anew the mystery comes to light thanks to their house she is now in. Of course you can probably guess if you read alot of thrillers and mysteries where her mind goes. Lets find the answers and maybe start a promising new career. Of course as the answers are uncovered so are the dangers that follow so we will be all tied up into this one.
12 people found this review helpful
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About the author

Malcolm Richards crafts stories to keep you guessing from the edge of your seat. He is the author of several crime thrillers and mystery novels, including the PI Blake Hollow series, the award-nominated Devil’s Cove trilogy, and the Emily Swanson series. Many of his books are set in Cornwall, where he was born and raised. Malcolm credits authors such as Stephen King, Thomas Harris & Agatha Christie as major influences on his writing.

Before becoming a full-time writer, he worked for several years in the special education sector, teaching and supporting children with complex needs. After living in London for two decades, he now lives in the Somerset countryside with his partner and their Miniature Schnauzer.

Author website: www.malcolmrichardsauthor.com

Malcolm Richards crafts stories to keep you guessing from the edge of your seat. He is the author of several crime thrillers and mystery novels, including the PI Blake Hollow series, the award-nominated Devil’s Cove trilogy, and the Emily Swanson series. Many of his books are set in Cornwall, whe...

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