Book Review: Missing in Flight by Audrey J. Cole
If you’re like me, there’s that certain thrill that accompanies picking up a locked room mystery, especially one that teeters on the edge of psychological suspense. When I stumbled upon Missing in Flight by Audrey J. Cole, I was instantly drawn in—not just by the intriguing premise but by the palpable tension hinted at in the synopsis. A mother searching for her missing child at thirty thousand feet? Sign me up! This novel did not disappoint; it was an utterly original ride that kept my eyes riveted to the pages.
At its core, Missing in Flight weaves an emotionally charged narrative that explores themes of motherhood, trust, and the lengths we go to protect those we love. The protagonist, Makayla Rossi, finds herself in the most harrowing of situations. Left with the uphill battle of convincing others that her baby, Liam, once existed, Makayla’s descent into desperation deepens as she wrestles with doubt—not just from the bewildered passengers but from her own mind as well. Cole does a remarkable job of portraying Makayla’s emotional turmoil, making her journey both relatable and heart-wrenching.
The brilliance of this book lies in Cole’s narrative structure. With multiple distinct points of view, readers are granted insight into the minds of a diverse cast of characters: from the passengers who become unexpected suspects to the diligent FBI agents working to solve the case on the ground. These shifting perspectives not only heighten the suspense but also enrich the emotional depth of the story. I thoroughly enjoyed the way the plot gradually built up a sense of dread, twisting and turning at every page—much like a plane caught in turbulent air. Each revelation left me gasping, and I found myself whispering “Wait, what?!” more times than I can count.
One standout element is the writing style. Cole’s prose is sharp and efficient, punctuated by short, inhale-able chapters that propel the story forward at a breakneck pace. It’s the kind of book that you can’t put down; I raced through 277 pages in no time. The cleverly crafted unreliable narrative kept me guessing right up until the very end—definitely what I crave in a psychological thriller.
One moment that really struck me was when Makayla reflects on her mother’s past mental health struggles, a nuance that lends emotional weight to her own plight. This kind of insight adds layers to the characters, allowing readers to empathize with their fears and flaws. Cole expertly crafts tension, leaving us questioning who to trust.
I must mention that Missing in Flight requires a willing suspension of disbelief. Yet once I embraced that aspect, the rollercoaster ride of suspense was worth every moment. This book is a perfect fit for those who enjoy stories filled with suspicious characters and gripping tension.
In conclusion, if you adore pulse-pounding plots infused with emotion, Missing in Flight is a must-read. Audrey J. Cole has created a riveting narrative that dives deep into the complexities of motherhood while keeping readers on the edge of their seats. I can’t wait to see how others respond to this thrilling tale—it certainly left a lasting impact on me. With a solid 4.5-star rating, I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for their next captivating page-turner!
Thank you to Audrey J. Cole and Thomas & Mercer for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.