Reviewed by Kelly on
The Vanishing was completely unexpected. I found myself immersed from the first few pages, and unable to tear myself away. It follows the story of Jocelyn, grieving the loss of her twin brother Jack who was tragically killed. Growing up in the neglectful and abusive orphanage, both relied on Noah for guidance and to keep them safe. But an incident caused Jocelyn to flee, landing the twins in a loving foster home while they lost track of Noah's whereabouts after the orphanage fire. After reconnecting, each night Jack communicated with Noah online, working within The Internet Security company and bonding over late night conversations.
When Jocelyn barges back into his life, Noah reluctantly joins the search for Jack's next clue. Wavering between the thrill of the adventure and not daring to believe his friend is still alive. But with a rogue former employee on their tails, the race to decipher the clues left by Jack will put both their lives in danger. Jocelyn was a likable character, although scared, she was determined to face her childhood fears in order to find her brother, despite her own life being in danger.
Noah verges on surly and hasn't seen Jocelyn since the night she fled, but allows her to bring him along on the dangerous and deadly adventure that will see them cross borders, and contact children of the former home whilst bringing the two childhood friends together again. It was thrilling, reminding me of a mild, young adult version of The Da Vinci Code. I couldn't put it down and read long into the early hours of the morning.
Unlike young adult thrillers such as We Were Liars and Dangerous Girls, The Vanishing has not only the element of surprise, but the suspense will keep you on edge from cover to cover. At times the writing felt a little unpolished, but doesn't distract from the storyline. I simply loved it. Enthralling and heart stopping suspense that will last long after the final page is turned.
Reading updates
- Started reading
- 9 January, 2015: Finished reading
- 9 January, 2015: Reviewed