I have to say I’ve had mixed thoughts about Nikki Smith books historically – but decided to give her new one (out in Summer 2026) a go. Here’s the blurb:

“Leo thought he knew his wife. Until she disappeared.
When Addison Kennedy fails to return from their safari lodge, her husband flies out to South Africa to find her.
But when he arrives, he discovers a missing poster – and it isn’t Addison’s face staring back at him. It’s his. His name. His details. His photograph.
His wife might be missing but it’s him they’re hunting . . .”

Each chapter of the book is told from Leo or Addison’s point of view. They appear to be the ‘perfect couple’ living in a gorgeous house in a gated community in the UK, whilst also owning a luxury safari lodge in Leo’s native South Africa. The descriptions of both are wonderful.

The book starts with Addison not returning from a trip to the lodge – but then twists and turns with flashbacks as well as real time commentary.

I enjoyed the various settings of the book – and the South African heat is described brilliantly! Having been lucky enough to do a similar trip (although with different outcomes, thankfully!) it really brought the area to life.

You know with a Nikki Smith novel there are going to be coincidences / plot twists – and this is no exception. Whilst I was expecting them – they weren’t what I predicted at all – and I really enjoyed it (although you do have to suspend belief a bit)

Overall this was an enjoyable read which I would recommend. Thank you to the publisher and Net Galley for my advanced review copy.