Book Review: Missing in Flight by Audrey J. Cole
When I first stumbled across Missing in Flight, I was instantly captivated by its intriguing premise: a mother desperate to find her missing child at thirty thousand feet. As a reader who thrives on suspense and psychological twists, the concept felt like it was tailor-made for me. Audrey J. Cole does not disappoint; this latest release is a breathtaking whirlwind that had me glued to the pages from start to finish.
The novel opens with Makayla Rossi on a seemingly ordinary flight from Anchorage to New York, hoping to navigate the stresses of motherhood and travel. But just minutes after leaving her husband, Jack, comfortably asleep on the plane, she rushes back to find her baby’s bassinet empty. As the flight attendants and fellow passengers scramble to search the aircraft, the walls of suspense close in. Cole masterfully uses multiple POVs, crafting a tapestry of doubt and anxiety that had my heartbeat quickening. I was both swept away by each character’s unique perspective and captivated by the deep emotional insights that unfolded.
One of the standout elements of Missing in Flight is its pulse-pounding pacing. The chapters are short and written with such urgency that I found myself inhaling them in one breath. Each twist provoked a myriad of “Wait, what?!” moments that echoed in my mind long after I’d turned the last page. Cole has this uncanny ability to build dread so gradually, you’re left on the edge of your seat, questioning everything you thought you knew. By the time I reached the climax, I felt not only invested in Makayla’s fate but also emotionally tethered to her struggles.
Cole’s skill with an unreliable narrator is a true highlight. With every chapter, I had to recalibrate my understanding of what was real and what was merely a figment of Makayla’s increasingly frazzled mind. The emotional depth she injects into Makayla’s character resonates powerfully, making her plight feel achingly real. As I read, I couldn’t help but reflect on the stress of balancing parental responsibilities with the pressures of society—especially when the stakes are as high as a missing child.
Content warnings for sensitive themes, such as missing children and violence, are thoughtfully provided, ensuring readers are aware of the emotional landscape ahead. It’s essential to note that while the plot demands a level of suspension of disbelief—after all, we’re talking about a rollercoaster of a flight—the ride is nothing short of exhilarating.
For those who love psychological thrillers filled with suspicious characters, increasing tension, and cleverly constructed plot twists, Missing in Flight is a must-read. It had me racing through its 277 pages, propelled by curiosity and adrenaline. As I closed the book, I felt both satisfied and breathless, a testament to Cole’s ability to leave readers clamoring for more.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend this novel to anyone seeking an engaging, spine-tingling read. Missing in Flight has carved out a place in my heart and will surely resonate with those who enjoy a good psychological mystery. Thank you, Audrey J. Cole, for this explosive journey—one that I will not soon forget!
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½