College Girl, Missing: The True Story of How a Young Woman Disappeared in Plain Sight

4.2 4.2 out of 5 stars | 394 ratings

Price: 15.3

Last update: 07-06-2024


Top reviews from the United States

Cecilia J Ramsey
5.0 out of 5 stars Great writing
Reviewed in the United States on June 1, 2024
The author was there from the beginning of this missing case, which is rare. Many books are written about people once they go missing, but never from the inside, while being an outsider at the same time.
I found myself reading faster, hoping for a resolution in a case I logically knew had not been solved. Mr Cohen has found his calling, because I could not put it down. Whether you know all the details of Lauren Spierer's case or have never heard of her, this book will not disappoint. I'll definitely be following this author, waiting for more great things to come.
Katie
4.0 out of 5 stars Where is she!?!
Reviewed in the United States on June 17, 2024
The book has some interesting information that I didn’t know. I live in Bloomington and I helped look for her in the early searching. I was disappointed in some of the local details that he got wrong, and I agree that local PD really dropped the ball with the investigation. Its an interesting read, I think he was on to the truth about what happened to her. I don’t know how people can live with that on their conscience.
listener
5.0 out of 5 stars Deeply Personal Insider’s Account from a Top Investigative Crime Reporter
Reviewed in the United States on June 4, 2024
I knew very little about the Lauren Spierer case until picking up Shawn Cohen’s compelling read. While the book provides myriad details about Lauren’s last night—it simultaneously provides “bigger picture” perspective, allowing the reader to get a feel for Lauren’s friends and family— as well as a feel for the depth of the author’s commitment in unraveling the mysteries surrounding her disappearance.
As senior crime reporter for the local newspaper in the county where the Spierers resided, the author broke the news of Lauren’s disappearance before heading out to Indiana to ferret out further details. From these beginnings, and through ensuing years, Cohen remained steadfast in his desire to help bring about a resolution for all who knew and loved Lauren. This is evident in the book as the reader is drawn into the complexities of sorting through fact from fiction—only Cohen is doing it anew a decade after Lauren’s disappearance. “College Girl, Missing” also serves as a sober reminder to us all, of the importance of “listening to your gut”—and speaking up to keep a friend or family member safe—even if it may cost you the relationship. There’s much to be mined from this book whether you personally knew of the story or are a “newcomer” to the Lauren Spierer case.
Will Lowrey
3.0 out of 5 stars Not great, not terrible
Reviewed in the United States on June 22, 2024
This was a quick read and largely kept me engaged. But given how much the author hyped himself and his mission with this book, it fell flat. Seemed he was stretching lots of things out to make a full length book (and it is a short one at that). None of the interviews with the guys he clearly suspects (but never said) were remotely compelling or gave credence to his theory. Just seemed like normal recollections from over a decade ago. That said, it is an interesting mystery and for that, the book was worth a read.
Mark J. Janicki
4.0 out of 5 stars Worst Nightmare
Reviewed in the United States on June 27, 2024
I have been intrigued by this story … for years. I had two kids on that campus 2009, 2011 grads (and I graduated in 1978) so very familiar with the geography and campus life! I always go to Ocam’s razor for explanations and solutions… Book was a great read, page turner! The one thing that might have helped would to have included a map in the book of where everything is and her route she traveled! I really think the head injuries were fatal! Great read!
Jill
5.0 out of 5 stars Highly Recommend!
Reviewed in the United States on June 18, 2024
For anyone who’s followed Lauren’s story over the years, the details in this book will shed some light on the events that led up to her disappearance. It’s a heartbreaking story, but a story in which college kids can learn from. Heres to the hope that someone comes forward with information to help Lauren’s family gain some closure.
R. Johnston
5.0 out of 5 stars Very well written and worth another look
Reviewed in the United States on June 3, 2024
As a native Hoosier and former IU student, what happened to Lauren has always stayed with me and not having any resolution for the family always caused my heart to break. Shawn Cohen did a wonderful job with his research, interviews and investigating. Then he put all the information into a story that grips you from the first sentence to the last. I sincerely hope his findings prompt law enforcement to reinvestigate and pursue the leads he has supplied us with. The Spierers deserve this much and more. Bless you Lauren and thank you Shawn.
HP
4.0 out of 5 stars Quick but insightful read
Reviewed in the United States on June 1, 2024
The book divulges a few additional details of that fateful evening which have been kept close for so many years. I hope the trend continues and all videos, statements provided to police, etc are made publicly available. Perhaps a buried fact could provide some insight.
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HP
4.0 out of 5 stars Quick but insightful read
Reviewed in the United States on June 1, 2024
The book divulges a few additional details of that fateful evening which have been kept close for so many years. I hope the trend continues and all videos, statements provided to police, etc are made publicly available. Perhaps a buried fact could provide some insight.
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