Keep Smiling Through

A Child Vanishes, a Community Shattered

In the quiet village of 1950s Somerset, the sudden disappearance of seven-year-old Molly Heywood on a bright summer’s day throws an entire community into turmoil. Lesley Pearse’s compelling novel, Without a Trace, explores the heartbreak, suspicion, and desperate hope that grip those left behind. For Molly’s devoted mother, the pain of loss is compounded by the cold indifference of her neighbors, who are quick to judge and reluctant to help. Only Molly’s best friend, Grace, refuses to let the mystery fade, vowing to find out what happened to the little girl whose laughter once echoed through the fields.

A Courageous Search for Truth

With courage and determination, Grace embarks on a quest for answers that takes her far beyond the boundaries of her small village. Confronting secrets and lies at every turn, she discovers that appearances can be deceiving and that darkness can linger beneath even the sunniest surfaces. Pearse masterfully weaves a tale of suspense and emotion, as Grace’s journey brings her face to face with danger, heartbreak, and unexpected allies. Through her search, the bonds of friendship and loyalty are tested, and long-hidden truths begin to surface—challenging Grace to summon a strength she never knew she possessed.

Suspense, Heart, and the Enduring Power of Hope

Without a Trace is a gripping and emotional story that explores loss, resilience, and the unwavering power of hope. Lesley Pearse’s vivid characters and evocative sense of place create an atmosphere thick with tension and longing, drawing readers into a world where every clue matters and every relationship is fragile. At its heart, this novel is a testament to the determination it takes to seek justice and the healing that can begin even in the wake of tragedy. For fans of heartfelt drama and page-turning suspense, Without a Trace is an unforgettable journey into the mysteries that bind—and sometimes break—a community.

About the author: Lesley Pearse is a bestselling author celebrated for her emotionally rich stories and compelling heroines. With Without a Trace, she delivers a deeply moving novel that lingers long after the last page, affirming her reputation as a master storyteller.