Menu

We Were Never Here: A Novel

Category: Fiction - Mystery -Murder
Author: Andrea Bartz
Publisher: Ballantine Books
Publication Date: August 3, 2021
Number of Pages: 320
ISBN-10: 198482046X
ISBN-13: 978-1984820464
ASIN: B08M31H56D

Emily and her best friend, Kristen, are in the mountains of Chile. Every year, they get together for a trip, and this time they feel more connected than ever. The fun is too real for Emily. But everything changes when she returns to their hotel suite on the last night of their trip to find blood and broken glass on the floor. Kristen has a simple explanation for that: the handsome backpacker she’s brought to their room attacked her and she killed him in self-defense. Emily is in shock and is well aware it is not the first time this is happening. A similar experience happened a year ago when Kristen killed someone. The sight is gory. When she returns home to Wisconsin, she suffers from the trauma, taking flights in her work and in a new relationship. A surprise visit from Kristen stirs up the memories and threatens everything Emily has built for herself. Kristen’s friendship is far more dangerous than she has ever imagined. Who is she, really, and can Emily handle the secrets she shares with her friend or will they destroy her?

We Were Never Here: A Novel by Andrea Bartz is a psychological thriller that features memorable characters. They are real. They are human, and they are genuinely flawed. Emily has a lot to deal with; she is stressed out and she is learning to cope with so much that is going on in her life. The author’s skillful handling of character development shines through this compelling narrative. There are moments readers will feel some disappointment in Emily, because she doesn’t seem to have a will of her own. But she is well-imagined and written to fit that role. The prose is dazzling and the plot is replete with twists that readers can’t predict. We Were Never Here: A Novel is affecting and a story that is immersive and creepy at times. I was literally captivated and submerged in the inner worlds of the characters. This is one of those books for fans of psychological thrillers with strong inner conflict and unforgettable characters.

Reviewed By: David Reyes

|

Date: August 19, 2021

Featured

Weekly Top Picks

Hand-picked reviews our authors and readers are loving right now

{

Fiction Books

Thriller, Suspense & Mystery

The Book Commentary

The Read Down

Essays, author interviews and publishing advice for curious readers and writers.

How to Spot Trends in Popular Books Without Chasing Them
How to Spot Trends in Popular Books Without Chasing Them
Bestsellers

How to Spot Trends in Popular Books Without Chasing Them

By Romuald Dzemo  · 

For avid readers, being aware of these trends can enhance your reading experience, broaden your horizons, and, let’s be honest, help you sound like a literary genius at your next book club meeting.

Read the article →
Author Sanjay Sabnani Talks About the Power of Discomfort: Turning Pressure into Action, Learning to Receive, and Finding Peace Beyond Striving
Author Sanjay Sabnani Talks About the Power of Discomfort: Turning Pressure into Action, Learning to Receive, and Finding Peace Beyond Striving
Author Interviews Aug 10, 2026

Author Sanjay Sabnani Talks About the Power of Discomfort: Turning Pressure into Action, Learning to Receive, and Finding Peace Beyond Striving

By Sanjay Sabnani

Discover why your brain sabotages success and how to rewire your identity in this ActualizationOS interview on stillness, self-sabotage, and lasting change.

Read the article →