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Missing
Your baby is perfect. She sleeps through the night, even in this heat. You'll keep her cool. Open the window. Anything she needs. Anything.
But when you wake up in the morning, Bella is gone.
Recently-promoted DI Martha Allen is furious. Her career hinges on this missing baby case, and her boss and the circling media both want a quick solve - but her key witness is lying.
Allen needs the truth. She's not going to stop until she gets it. No matter how long it takes.
That detective is watching you.
What have youdone? What happened to your baby?
357 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 2, 2025
26 people are currently reading
8967 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 145 reviews
November 17, 2025
This is a book I went into with very few expectations - it was an unfamiliar author and a storyline of a missing child so it all felt quite routine. However, I have to say, it was thoroughly enjoyable and I would definitely recommend it.
The synopsis on Netgalley doesn't give much away however the Goodreads synopsis tells a little bit more. I would actually recommend going into this one a little blind as I think the blurb on Goodreads actually gives too much away.
Ultimately, the book centres on the disappearance of baby Bella and the subsequent investigation from DI Martha Allen. Determined to find Bella, Martha will stop at nothing to make sure she is returned safely and despite the eventual outcome of the disappearance, Martha feels there is a lot more to the story than originally thought. The book is told over two time periods with the first part of the book telling the story of Bella's disappearance and the investigation however when a key person in the original investigation turns up dead 30 years later, Martha is keen to find out the real truth behind the disappearance once and for all.
This was a really impressive novel which deals not only with Bella's disappearance but many other issues including addiction, poverty, domestic abuse etc. but at its heart it is, for me, about the devotion of DI Allen as she seeks the truth over what really happened to baby Bella. Despite the case apparently being 'solved', her dogged determination to bring the real facts to life was really impressive (although not her superiors or those who would rather the truth stay hidden).
Thanks to Netgalley and Faber and Faber Ltd for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. This is tagged on Netgalley as Book 1 of the DI Allen series so looking forward to seeing what comes next.
The synopsis on Netgalley doesn't give much away however the Goodreads synopsis tells a little bit more. I would actually recommend going into this one a little blind as I think the blurb on Goodreads actually gives too much away.
Ultimately, the book centres on the disappearance of baby Bella and the subsequent investigation from DI Martha Allen. Determined to find Bella, Martha will stop at nothing to make sure she is returned safely and despite the eventual outcome of the disappearance, Martha feels there is a lot more to the story than originally thought. The book is told over two time periods with the first part of the book telling the story of Bella's disappearance and the investigation however when a key person in the original investigation turns up dead 30 years later, Martha is keen to find out the real truth behind the disappearance once and for all.
This was a really impressive novel which deals not only with Bella's disappearance but many other issues including addiction, poverty, domestic abuse etc. but at its heart it is, for me, about the devotion of DI Allen as she seeks the truth over what really happened to baby Bella. Despite the case apparently being 'solved', her dogged determination to bring the real facts to life was really impressive (although not her superiors or those who would rather the truth stay hidden).
Thanks to Netgalley and Faber and Faber Ltd for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. This is tagged on Netgalley as Book 1 of the DI Allen series so looking forward to seeing what comes next.
December 15, 2025
3.5
that last chapter threw me for a LOOP!!!
that last chapter threw me for a LOOP!!!
February 17, 2026
The first half of this book really did feel like it was written years and years ago (because it’s set years and years ago, 90s vibes accomplished) but for me, I enjoyed the future timeline more so than the 90s. The original mystery felt on the slower side, with no real interesting investigation. It was more establishing the characters. The later half felt more like a real investigation that I could be intrigued by. Overall I really enjoyed the end result for this one!
Thank you to the publisher for the gifted arc
Thank you to the publisher for the gifted arc
February 25, 2026
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for the advanced copy of this novel.
Wow, what a ride, and that ending shocked the heck out of me! You'll be on the edge of your seat with this one, for sure. My only other feedback is that is wish the book had been written where it flipped between 1990 and the present every few chapters, instead of block format that changes time periods in the middle. Personally, I feel like that book would've just been more fluid that way, but that's just my opinion.
Wow, what a ride, and that ending shocked the heck out of me! You'll be on the edge of your seat with this one, for sure. My only other feedback is that is wish the book had been written where it flipped between 1990 and the present every few chapters, instead of block format that changes time periods in the middle. Personally, I feel like that book would've just been more fluid that way, but that's just my opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I was provided an advanced copy of this book by NetGalley and Atria in return for an honest review.
This book is written in two parts. Part one consists of the kidnapping of baby Bella from her home in London. Just a few days later, a woman finds Bella and returns her to a local police station.Although everyone should be happy and relieved, there are a lot of questions. At this point, the reader is introduced to DI Martha Allen, and the web of intrigue is further woven.
Part two of the book takes place 30 years later in present-day London. The good Samaritan returning Bella has been killed and Allen revives the case that has puzzled here all these years. DI Allen finally resolves the mystery of the death, and the web untangles itself for the reader. I must confess I never saw it coming!
I had a hard time getting through big parts of this book; it dragged. Too much time was spent with character introspection and atmosphere descriptions that were unnecessary, while more attention to character development would have been appreciated.
It's a good book, just not great. 3 stars.
This book is written in two parts. Part one consists of the kidnapping of baby Bella from her home in London. Just a few days later, a woman finds Bella and returns her to a local police station.Although everyone should be happy and relieved, there are a lot of questions. At this point, the reader is introduced to DI Martha Allen, and the web of intrigue is further woven.
Part two of the book takes place 30 years later in present-day London. The good Samaritan returning Bella has been killed and Allen revives the case that has puzzled here all these years. DI Allen finally resolves the mystery of the death, and the web untangles itself for the reader. I must confess I never saw it coming!
I had a hard time getting through big parts of this book; it dragged. Too much time was spent with character introspection and atmosphere descriptions that were unnecessary, while more attention to character development would have been appreciated.
It's a good book, just not great. 3 stars.
March 13, 2026
A baby goes missing in 1990. The case is closed when she's "found." But DI Martha Allen never believed the story. Thirty years later, she gets another chance at the truth.
This is a slow-burn mystery about obsession and following your gut instinct even when it takes years. I was riveted trying to figure out what really happened. The mood was consistently somber - something darker lurked beneath the surface.
Martha's painful journey with infertility made her feel human in this book, complex beyond just being the detective on the case. She's also navigating a workplace full of men who don't respect her opinions because she's a woman - they only gave her the abduction case for optics, assuming she'd be more empathetic to the mother.
Audio experience: Nicola Walker brought Martha Allen to life brilliantly. I could hear her competence, her restraint when being dismissed by colleagues, and the emotional weight she carried. Walker made this an intriguing listen.
The ending was both expected and unexpected - I knew Martha's instincts would be right, but the "why" behind everything caught me off guard.
You'll love this if: You want slow-burn cold case mysteries, female detectives fighting workplace sexism, and investigations driven by gut instinct.
Thanks to Atria Books, Simon & Schuster Audio, and NetGalley for the advance copies.
This is a slow-burn mystery about obsession and following your gut instinct even when it takes years. I was riveted trying to figure out what really happened. The mood was consistently somber - something darker lurked beneath the surface.
Martha's painful journey with infertility made her feel human in this book, complex beyond just being the detective on the case. She's also navigating a workplace full of men who don't respect her opinions because she's a woman - they only gave her the abduction case for optics, assuming she'd be more empathetic to the mother.
Audio experience: Nicola Walker brought Martha Allen to life brilliantly. I could hear her competence, her restraint when being dismissed by colleagues, and the emotional weight she carried. Walker made this an intriguing listen.
The ending was both expected and unexpected - I knew Martha's instincts would be right, but the "why" behind everything caught me off guard.
You'll love this if: You want slow-burn cold case mysteries, female detectives fighting workplace sexism, and investigations driven by gut instinct.
Thanks to Atria Books, Simon & Schuster Audio, and NetGalley for the advance copies.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Wow… I’m honestly stunned that this is a debut novel.
Missing is a gripping mystery thriller that held my attention from the very first chapter all the way to the final page. It’s the kind of story that refuses to let you go, I’d try to set it down, only to find myself still thinking about the characters and the case. More than once, I picked it back up because I simply had to know what happened next.
One of the standout elements for me was Allen’s character. Watching her career evolve over the years was incredibly compelling, and I appreciated how layered and human she felt. At the same time, there was something deeply poignant about seeing how one case could consume so much of her life for three decades. That long term emotional weight added real depth to the story.
The plot itself was cleverly constructed, with twists and reveals that felt earned rather than forced. I especially admired the unwavering determination at the heart of the novel, the powerful drive of one person who refuses to stop searching for the truth, no matter how much time passes.
This was a strong, confident debut that absolutely delivered on suspense and emotional impact.
Thank you to Atria Books for putting this incredible book on my radar, and to E.A. Jackson for the eARC via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
Highly recommend!
Missing is a gripping mystery thriller that held my attention from the very first chapter all the way to the final page. It’s the kind of story that refuses to let you go, I’d try to set it down, only to find myself still thinking about the characters and the case. More than once, I picked it back up because I simply had to know what happened next.
One of the standout elements for me was Allen’s character. Watching her career evolve over the years was incredibly compelling, and I appreciated how layered and human she felt. At the same time, there was something deeply poignant about seeing how one case could consume so much of her life for three decades. That long term emotional weight added real depth to the story.
The plot itself was cleverly constructed, with twists and reveals that felt earned rather than forced. I especially admired the unwavering determination at the heart of the novel, the powerful drive of one person who refuses to stop searching for the truth, no matter how much time passes.
This was a strong, confident debut that absolutely delivered on suspense and emotional impact.
Thank you to Atria Books for putting this incredible book on my radar, and to E.A. Jackson for the eARC via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
Highly recommend!
October 19, 2025
I received an ARC via Netgalley in exchange for a honest review.
Missing was an enjoyable read. Maybe not one of my all-time favourites, but definitely a solid and satisfying thriller. The story begins with the disappearance of baby Bella and follows Detective Allen as she tries to unravel the mystery. The narrative is cleverly split into two timelines: one set at the time of Bella’s disappearance, and the other thirty years later, when old secrets start to resurface.
I really enjoyed the way the author built the atmosphere. That constant sense of uncertainty and quiet tension kept me intrigued. The characters felt grounded and believable, especially Detective Allen, whose determination adds a strong emotional layer to the investigation.
That said, there were moments when the story felt like it was slowing down a bit, with some parts not moving the plot forward as much as I hoped. Still, the final chapters made up for it completely. The ending was intense and genuinely shocking, tying the two timelines together in a way that caught me off guard.
Missing is a well-crafted, emotional mystery about loss, truth, and how the past never really stays buried. It’s a story that builds slowly but ends with a powerful punch. A rewarding read for fans of thoughtful, character-driven thrillers.
Missing was an enjoyable read. Maybe not one of my all-time favourites, but definitely a solid and satisfying thriller. The story begins with the disappearance of baby Bella and follows Detective Allen as she tries to unravel the mystery. The narrative is cleverly split into two timelines: one set at the time of Bella’s disappearance, and the other thirty years later, when old secrets start to resurface.
I really enjoyed the way the author built the atmosphere. That constant sense of uncertainty and quiet tension kept me intrigued. The characters felt grounded and believable, especially Detective Allen, whose determination adds a strong emotional layer to the investigation.
That said, there were moments when the story felt like it was slowing down a bit, with some parts not moving the plot forward as much as I hoped. Still, the final chapters made up for it completely. The ending was intense and genuinely shocking, tying the two timelines together in a way that caught me off guard.
Missing is a well-crafted, emotional mystery about loss, truth, and how the past never really stays buried. It’s a story that builds slowly but ends with a powerful punch. A rewarding read for fans of thoughtful, character-driven thrillers.
January 7, 2026
Set during the sweltering heatwave of August 1990, this novel opens with the abduction of baby Bella Carpenter, taken through the open window of her London hotel room. Detective Inspector Martha Allen is assigned to the high-profile investigation and is determined to solve the case, fully aware that its outcome could define her career. When a young woman named Nell Beatty walks into a police station carrying a baby who appears to be Bella—claiming she discovered the child abandoned on a bench—the case seems to be resolved. Bella’s family, the police, and the press are jubilant. Yet DI Allen remains unconvinced. Nell’s story doesn’t quite add up, and despite being ordered to close the investigation now that the child is home safely, Allen cannot fully silence her doubts.
Thirty years later, Nell Beatty is found dead. Now a superintendent, Allen has never truly let go of the lingering questions surrounding the Carpenter case. Nell’s death reignites her curiosity, and she begins to investigate quietly on her own time, hoping to uncover the truth about Nell’s past and her role in Bella’s disappearance. As Allen digs deeper, she is forced to confront unsettling possibilities—ones darker than she ever anticipated—and must decide how much she is willing to risk in pursuit of long-buried answers.
The narrative is divided into two parts. The first follows the 1990 investigation from Allen’s perspective, charting her determined efforts to piece together who took Bella and why. The second half moves to 2020, where an older, higher-ranking Allen is still haunted by unresolved questions. Nell Beatty’s death prompts her to unofficially reopen the case, gradually uncovering the events that led Nell to walk into the police station with the child. The final chapter shifts to Nell’s point of view, providing a compelling and emotional account of what truly happened.
The novel is well-written and thoroughly researched, making it both engaging and accessible. The pacing is steady and absorbing, and the characters are fully realized, encouraging emotional investment in their fates. The conclusion is satisfying—both anticipated in some respects and surprising in others, with twists that feel earned rather than contrived.
In addition to delivering a gripping crime narrative, Jackson thoughtfully explores complex social issues, including addiction, poverty, domestic abuse, racial intolerance, misogyny, miscarriage, and infertility. These themes are woven into the story with sensitivity and depth, enhancing rather than overwhelming the central mystery.
Overall, this is an excellent and compelling read—highly recommended for fans of crime fiction and suspense who appreciate nuanced characters and morally layered storytelling.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher, Simon & Schuster for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
#NetGalley #Simon&Schuster #Missing
Thirty years later, Nell Beatty is found dead. Now a superintendent, Allen has never truly let go of the lingering questions surrounding the Carpenter case. Nell’s death reignites her curiosity, and she begins to investigate quietly on her own time, hoping to uncover the truth about Nell’s past and her role in Bella’s disappearance. As Allen digs deeper, she is forced to confront unsettling possibilities—ones darker than she ever anticipated—and must decide how much she is willing to risk in pursuit of long-buried answers.
The narrative is divided into two parts. The first follows the 1990 investigation from Allen’s perspective, charting her determined efforts to piece together who took Bella and why. The second half moves to 2020, where an older, higher-ranking Allen is still haunted by unresolved questions. Nell Beatty’s death prompts her to unofficially reopen the case, gradually uncovering the events that led Nell to walk into the police station with the child. The final chapter shifts to Nell’s point of view, providing a compelling and emotional account of what truly happened.
The novel is well-written and thoroughly researched, making it both engaging and accessible. The pacing is steady and absorbing, and the characters are fully realized, encouraging emotional investment in their fates. The conclusion is satisfying—both anticipated in some respects and surprising in others, with twists that feel earned rather than contrived.
In addition to delivering a gripping crime narrative, Jackson thoughtfully explores complex social issues, including addiction, poverty, domestic abuse, racial intolerance, misogyny, miscarriage, and infertility. These themes are woven into the story with sensitivity and depth, enhancing rather than overwhelming the central mystery.
Overall, this is an excellent and compelling read—highly recommended for fans of crime fiction and suspense who appreciate nuanced characters and morally layered storytelling.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher, Simon & Schuster for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
#NetGalley #Simon&Schuster #Missing
March 8, 2026
I enjoy a good crime thriller and this one definitely surprised me on how much I enjoyed it. I was instantly drawn in from the beginning and found myself not wanting to put it down. I loved having both the past and present timelines and being able to see each investigation play out. I did enjoy the twists that happened throughout and even though it could be a little predictable at times, it was still an enjoyable read.
Overall, I enjoyed this one and recommend it to anyone who likes crime thrillers and police procedurals!
Thank you to NetGalley and Atria Books for my ARC in exchange for my honest review!
Overall, I enjoyed this one and recommend it to anyone who likes crime thrillers and police procedurals!
Thank you to NetGalley and Atria Books for my ARC in exchange for my honest review!
January 14, 2026
This was a very enjoyable thriller about a missing child that hooks you from the start. This story very closely follows Detective Inspector Martha Allen who watches as the case of a missing baby is wrapped up pretty quickly and the baby is seemingly returned to her parents unharmed after being left at the police station by an unknown woman, who disappears immediately after… but something about the whole situation doesn’t feel right to Martha, and we follow her 30 years on as she tries to figure out what happened that day once and for all.
I throughly enjoyed this mystery! I thought it was very cleverly written and I really liked the fact that the book is split into two parts. The first part is set in 1990 on the day of the kidnapping and the days that follow, and the second part is set in 2020 as Martha delves back into the case. I loved the character of Martha, and found myself getting very attached to her throughout the book.
I always really enjoy thrillers about kidnappings, but more often than not find them predictable, but I was definitely surprised by the outcome of this book, especially the last chapter and it left me speechless! This was a solid thriller and there’s definitely a few surprises along the way which I think thriller fans would enjoy!
Thank you to NetGalley and to the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I throughly enjoyed this mystery! I thought it was very cleverly written and I really liked the fact that the book is split into two parts. The first part is set in 1990 on the day of the kidnapping and the days that follow, and the second part is set in 2020 as Martha delves back into the case. I loved the character of Martha, and found myself getting very attached to her throughout the book.
I always really enjoy thrillers about kidnappings, but more often than not find them predictable, but I was definitely surprised by the outcome of this book, especially the last chapter and it left me speechless! This was a solid thriller and there’s definitely a few surprises along the way which I think thriller fans would enjoy!
Thank you to NetGalley and to the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Read
March 5, 2026I was super-excited to read Missing. Overall I really enjoyed it and would recommend it to fans of police procedurals and procedural series.
The narrative begins in 2020 as Martha Allen, a London DCI, gets a surprising call from a former colleague to report a murder case he's investigating in Bristol. The victim was a mysterious figure in a case they worked together back in the 1990s.
The narrative then moves back to 1990 as Allen is assigned to that case: a horrifying incident of infant snatched from her parents' hotel room in the middle of the night.
What I loved about this part of Missing was that there was NO dual timeline. I feel like most of the books I read have chapter to chapter timeline switching and it was so refreshing to just absorb myself in one time and place. This part of the book was extremely intense and gripping as Martha and her team try to locate the baby.
The last quarter of the book moved forward to 2020 and this is where things fell apart a little for me. The book's resolution went with the oddest possible connection between their victim and the former case, one that had me seriously scratching my head. For me, procedurals are often about working the most obvious solutions. Hearing hoofbeats and checking horses, cows, deer, etc. Not an addax.
That said, I really liked Jackson's writing, the characters, the colleague relationship between Martha and Desbury , and Martha's observations about being a female police officer in the 1990s through the 2020s. I will happily read her next book!
Thanks to the publisher for providing an advance copy for review!
The narrative begins in 2020 as Martha Allen, a London DCI, gets a surprising call from a former colleague to report a murder case he's investigating in Bristol. The victim was a mysterious figure in a case they worked together back in the 1990s.
The narrative then moves back to 1990 as Allen is assigned to that case: a horrifying incident of infant snatched from her parents' hotel room in the middle of the night.
What I loved about this part of Missing was that there was NO dual timeline. I feel like most of the books I read have chapter to chapter timeline switching and it was so refreshing to just absorb myself in one time and place. This part of the book was extremely intense and gripping as Martha and her team try to locate the baby.
The last quarter of the book moved forward to 2020 and this is where things fell apart a little for me. The book's resolution went with the oddest possible connection between their victim and the former case, one that had me seriously scratching my head. For me, procedurals are often about working the most obvious solutions. Hearing hoofbeats and checking horses, cows, deer, etc. Not an addax.
That said, I really liked Jackson's writing, the characters, the colleague relationship between Martha and Desbury , and Martha's observations about being a female police officer in the 1990s through the 2020s. I will happily read her next book!
Thanks to the publisher for providing an advance copy for review!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A big thank you to NetGalley and Atria books for the ecopy in exchange for an honest review 💚
the premise of this book is excellent.
Unfortunately, it felt like it needed a good round of editing to cut down on some unnecessary information.
The main storyline remains interesting, I'm sure a lot of readers will enjoy this one nonetheless
the premise of this book is excellent.
Unfortunately, it felt like it needed a good round of editing to cut down on some unnecessary information.
The main storyline remains interesting, I'm sure a lot of readers will enjoy this one nonetheless
March 15, 2026
The story starts out strong with compelling characters and a gripping plot. Then the story slows up a bit, before picking up again for the ending. Overall, an engaging mystery.
My review is voluntary and all comments and opinions are my own.
My review is voluntary and all comments and opinions are my own.
December 3, 2025
I was grateful to receive an advance copy of Missing by E.A. Jackson before its official release, and I appreciate the opportunity to read it early. Jackson’s storytelling has a compelling pulse, and the premise of this novel is strong—built around quiet tension, emotional undercurrents, and the unsettling awareness that something is deeply wrong beneath the surface.
What Missing does well is atmosphere. Jackson creates a sense of unease that grows chapter by chapter, and the setting often feels like its own character. There’s a steady push to uncover what’s really happening, which kept me engaged even when the pacing wavered.
The characters are interesting, though not always fully realized. Some motivations could have been explored more deeply, and a few emotional beats feel abrupt rather than earned. The middle section also drags slightly, as if the narrative is holding its breath for too long before moving forward.
Still, the final act delivers solid tension and a satisfying enough payoff. The book sits comfortably in the “good but not unforgettable” category—rewarding in moments, uneven in others. Readers who enjoy slow-burn mysteries with a moody tone will likely find enough here to appreciate.
Overall, Missing is a decent read with flashes of excellence, even if it doesn’t quite reach its full potential. A three-star experience: worthwhile, atmospheric, and intriguing, but not completely polished.
What Missing does well is atmosphere. Jackson creates a sense of unease that grows chapter by chapter, and the setting often feels like its own character. There’s a steady push to uncover what’s really happening, which kept me engaged even when the pacing wavered.
The characters are interesting, though not always fully realized. Some motivations could have been explored more deeply, and a few emotional beats feel abrupt rather than earned. The middle section also drags slightly, as if the narrative is holding its breath for too long before moving forward.
Still, the final act delivers solid tension and a satisfying enough payoff. The book sits comfortably in the “good but not unforgettable” category—rewarding in moments, uneven in others. Readers who enjoy slow-burn mysteries with a moody tone will likely find enough here to appreciate.
Overall, Missing is a decent read with flashes of excellence, even if it doesn’t quite reach its full potential. A three-star experience: worthwhile, atmospheric, and intriguing, but not completely polished.
November 10, 2025
Missing by EA Jackson
Thank you NetGalley for the arc
This is a clever little book.
A couple Tom and Vivienne and their new baby Bella go to London for a little break. Bella is perfect, the dream baby and Tom and Vivienne are besotted with her.
The weather is very warm and the hotel room has no air conditioning, they feed the baby and put her down for the night with the window open. When they wake in the morning, Bella is missing.
The policewoman on the case is Martha Allen and she knows the main suspect is lying, but can she prove it?
I loved this book, spanning over thirty years with a strong female character doing everything she can to solve the mystery of the missing baby.
Thank you NetGalley for the arc
This is a clever little book.
A couple Tom and Vivienne and their new baby Bella go to London for a little break. Bella is perfect, the dream baby and Tom and Vivienne are besotted with her.
The weather is very warm and the hotel room has no air conditioning, they feed the baby and put her down for the night with the window open. When they wake in the morning, Bella is missing.
The policewoman on the case is Martha Allen and she knows the main suspect is lying, but can she prove it?
I loved this book, spanning over thirty years with a strong female character doing everything she can to solve the mystery of the missing baby.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
A gripping book tackling issues such as sexism, addiction, poverty, and mental health, Missing brought police work to life in a way that I wasn’t expecting. Thanks to a deeply human female protagonist and her equally authentic male copper counterparts, the 1990s were resurrected with all of their -isms in full glaring view. Alongside of the strong characterizations, however, was quite the haunting story. Charting a missing person case over the course of thirty years, this mystery felt utterly real. From the single-minded investigator, who just wanted her man, to a series of dead-ends that eventually led to a heartbreaking truth, I was completely hooked on this realistic tale. Dark and somber all while giving just the tiniest peek of hope, it was a one-sitting read that I couldn’t put down. After all, Detective Allen was the best kind of police procedural narrator.
While Allen was the piece of the puzzle that got me hooked, there were quite a few other things that I loved. With steady pacing, immersive storytelling, and dual timelines that truly delivered, this book was a definite win despite the somewhat slow-burning plot. On top of that, the string of broken lives had me emotionally invested throughout. The best part of this whodunnit story, however? That was the very last chapter. Delivering a jaw-dropping stunner that I didn’t see coming at all, I can only bow down at Ms. Jackson’s feet. I mean, this was a debut! But then, I should’ve known something was coming since any author who can weave in thought-provoking themes that well has immense talent. So if you’re looking for any of the above, grab this one now. Perfect for fans of Tana French, it was sharp, compelling, and incisive from beginning to end. Rating of 4.5 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
In August 1990, London is suffering through an unprecedented heatwave when baby Bella Carpenter is snatched through the open window of her hotel room. Detective Inspector Martha Allen is assigned the high-profile case and, knowing that it could make or break her career, is determined to find Bella.
When a young woman named Nell Beatty walks into the police station with a baby who appears to be Bella, and whom Nell claims she found on a bench, it seems that the mystery is solved. Her family, the police, and the press are overjoyed at her return. But DI Allen isn’t convinced, something about Nell’s story doesn’t ring true. As much as she wants to continue, however, now that the baby is safe, she’s ordered to close the investigation.
Thirty years later, Nell Beatty is found dead. Now a superintendent, Allen has never really gotten over her doubts about the Carpenter case and can’t resist doing a little digging on her own time, eager to find out what happened to Nell, and her involvement in the baby’s disappearance all those years ago. But will her efforts uncover something darker than she could have ever imagined? And what is she risking as she tries once and for all to reveal the truth?
Thank you E.A. Jackson and Atria Books for no complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: March 17, 2026
Content warning: child abduction, sexism, racism, infertility, mention of: postpartum depression, miscarriage, drug and alcohol abuse
While Allen was the piece of the puzzle that got me hooked, there were quite a few other things that I loved. With steady pacing, immersive storytelling, and dual timelines that truly delivered, this book was a definite win despite the somewhat slow-burning plot. On top of that, the string of broken lives had me emotionally invested throughout. The best part of this whodunnit story, however? That was the very last chapter. Delivering a jaw-dropping stunner that I didn’t see coming at all, I can only bow down at Ms. Jackson’s feet. I mean, this was a debut! But then, I should’ve known something was coming since any author who can weave in thought-provoking themes that well has immense talent. So if you’re looking for any of the above, grab this one now. Perfect for fans of Tana French, it was sharp, compelling, and incisive from beginning to end. Rating of 4.5 stars.
SYNOPSIS:
In August 1990, London is suffering through an unprecedented heatwave when baby Bella Carpenter is snatched through the open window of her hotel room. Detective Inspector Martha Allen is assigned the high-profile case and, knowing that it could make or break her career, is determined to find Bella.
When a young woman named Nell Beatty walks into the police station with a baby who appears to be Bella, and whom Nell claims she found on a bench, it seems that the mystery is solved. Her family, the police, and the press are overjoyed at her return. But DI Allen isn’t convinced, something about Nell’s story doesn’t ring true. As much as she wants to continue, however, now that the baby is safe, she’s ordered to close the investigation.
Thirty years later, Nell Beatty is found dead. Now a superintendent, Allen has never really gotten over her doubts about the Carpenter case and can’t resist doing a little digging on her own time, eager to find out what happened to Nell, and her involvement in the baby’s disappearance all those years ago. But will her efforts uncover something darker than she could have ever imagined? And what is she risking as she tries once and for all to reveal the truth?
Thank you E.A. Jackson and Atria Books for no complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: March 17, 2026
Content warning: child abduction, sexism, racism, infertility, mention of: postpartum depression, miscarriage, drug and alcohol abuse
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
pecial thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free, electronic ARC of this novel received in exchange for an honest review.
Expected publication date: Mar. 17, 2026
In 1990, a young couple is destroyed when their infant daughter, Bella, is kidnapped from the family’s hotel room during a vacation in London. Days later, a young woman named Nell enters the police station with an infant, claiming she found baby Bella on a park bench. Bella’s parents are overjoyed and confirm that the child is their beloved, Bella, and the young woman who found her disappears without a trace. Even though she was the lead on the case, police detective Martha Allen can’t celebrate, because she still feels like something is wrong, like the family is keeping secrets and that Nell was not completely honest about the truth of the events. Thirty years later, Martha has tried to forget about baby Bella, but when she discovers that a woman named Nell has been found deceased, she takes this as an invitation to reopen the case and find out once and for all what happened to baby Bella.
U.K author E.A. Jackson’s debut novel, “Missing”, is a sharp and suspenseful crime thriller. Told over the span of thirty years, from Bella’s abduction in the 1990s through to 2020, right before the pandemic, Jackson kept me guessing at every turn.
Martha is the protagonist, an overworked, underappreciated, dedicated and obsessed police detective who struggles to break the glass ceiling while trying to solve what could be the biggest case of her career. Initially, Martha is a new detective who struggles with infertility and later, she is looking down the barrel of retirement, hoping to finally find answers to a case that’s haunted her for years. Martha is the ultimate female protagonist, resilient and brave, while facing insurmountable personal and professional struggles. There was no way I wasn’t going to root for her, and Jackson’s readers will feel the same.
There are many suspenseful twists and turns throughout the novel, and as the story goes on, readers are left with any number of options as to what the true story actually is. The ending, of course, provides all of the answers, and even hits with an unexpected plot twist right at the very end of the novel, as we finally hear from Nell herself. The subject matter is tense and emotional, but it highlights important themes that will leave an indelible imprint.
“Missing” is a well-written debut, perfect for crime fiction fans. Jackson delivers top tier suspense, a dramatic police investigation, and delicious twists, all with a relatable and likable protagonist.
Expected publication date: Mar. 17, 2026
In 1990, a young couple is destroyed when their infant daughter, Bella, is kidnapped from the family’s hotel room during a vacation in London. Days later, a young woman named Nell enters the police station with an infant, claiming she found baby Bella on a park bench. Bella’s parents are overjoyed and confirm that the child is their beloved, Bella, and the young woman who found her disappears without a trace. Even though she was the lead on the case, police detective Martha Allen can’t celebrate, because she still feels like something is wrong, like the family is keeping secrets and that Nell was not completely honest about the truth of the events. Thirty years later, Martha has tried to forget about baby Bella, but when she discovers that a woman named Nell has been found deceased, she takes this as an invitation to reopen the case and find out once and for all what happened to baby Bella.
U.K author E.A. Jackson’s debut novel, “Missing”, is a sharp and suspenseful crime thriller. Told over the span of thirty years, from Bella’s abduction in the 1990s through to 2020, right before the pandemic, Jackson kept me guessing at every turn.
Martha is the protagonist, an overworked, underappreciated, dedicated and obsessed police detective who struggles to break the glass ceiling while trying to solve what could be the biggest case of her career. Initially, Martha is a new detective who struggles with infertility and later, she is looking down the barrel of retirement, hoping to finally find answers to a case that’s haunted her for years. Martha is the ultimate female protagonist, resilient and brave, while facing insurmountable personal and professional struggles. There was no way I wasn’t going to root for her, and Jackson’s readers will feel the same.
There are many suspenseful twists and turns throughout the novel, and as the story goes on, readers are left with any number of options as to what the true story actually is. The ending, of course, provides all of the answers, and even hits with an unexpected plot twist right at the very end of the novel, as we finally hear from Nell herself. The subject matter is tense and emotional, but it highlights important themes that will leave an indelible imprint.
“Missing” is a well-written debut, perfect for crime fiction fans. Jackson delivers top tier suspense, a dramatic police investigation, and delicious twists, all with a relatable and likable protagonist.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
2.5 stars. Sometimes I get mad more at the publicity team for a book for writing a bad summary than I do at the book. But this time it's both. This is compared to Tana French and I think the book really wants to be a Tana French book. But it isn't very good at being a Tana French book. This doesn't have to be bad, a lot of people find French too slow or too lost in character, I think Jackson has potential. But I think she should probably move more towards traditional thrillers, that feels more like where she wants to be.
A procedural has to keep things moving, you can't go too fast or too slow. It needs some complexity so things aren't solved too quickly. You can't get too caught up in red herrings or too distracted by a particular theory or you risk losing your audience. The pacing here doesn't fully work. Jackson is smart to have a two-crime storyline, and she even manages to pull off telling you the outcome of the first from the very beginning, a tricky stunt. But there just isn't enough there there for either story.
I think Jackson is trying to do both too much and not enough. The too much is giving us this story of a female detective trying to rise through the ranks in the 90s (not saying you can't do it because Prime Suspect already did it but Prime Suspect sets a very high bar) and have a pregnant detective investigating a baby's kidnapping and try to ask all these questions about race and class and gender. These are all hard things to pull off individually, and they all feel like they don't get quite enough attention or skill here. The modern storyline starts to feel a little like a showcase of interesting social issues Jackson wants to address (trans people! radical squatters! domestic violence! postpartum anxiety!) rather than real stories that intertwine organically.
The not enough is the tension and suspense that never feels like it's there. The past crime doesn't make much sense, which means it's either very bizarre or very obvious. The present crime isn't even a new crime, really, it's just an excuse for Allen to go back to her suspicions from the past. And her doggedness never really tracks just like the overly quick resolution of the past crime never made much sense either. The final chapter throwing a wrench in much of it is only more evidence for my request for Jackson to go thriller, because that is a thriller twist not a procedural one.
Ultimately I just didn't care enough about Allen for this to be a French-esque story. French grounds you so thoroughly in her characters that you care more about what happens to them than the crime. Allen is fine but she doesn't really get to be a full person. She seems to have had almost no life in the 30 years between the two stories, and has not changed much at all.
Going deep isn't really working for Jackson, but I think she could do a pretty good job at focusing more on plot and leaning in there.
A procedural has to keep things moving, you can't go too fast or too slow. It needs some complexity so things aren't solved too quickly. You can't get too caught up in red herrings or too distracted by a particular theory or you risk losing your audience. The pacing here doesn't fully work. Jackson is smart to have a two-crime storyline, and she even manages to pull off telling you the outcome of the first from the very beginning, a tricky stunt. But there just isn't enough there there for either story.
I think Jackson is trying to do both too much and not enough. The too much is giving us this story of a female detective trying to rise through the ranks in the 90s (not saying you can't do it because Prime Suspect already did it but Prime Suspect sets a very high bar) and have a pregnant detective investigating a baby's kidnapping and try to ask all these questions about race and class and gender. These are all hard things to pull off individually, and they all feel like they don't get quite enough attention or skill here. The modern storyline starts to feel a little like a showcase of interesting social issues Jackson wants to address (trans people! radical squatters! domestic violence! postpartum anxiety!) rather than real stories that intertwine organically.
The not enough is the tension and suspense that never feels like it's there. The past crime doesn't make much sense, which means it's either very bizarre or very obvious. The present crime isn't even a new crime, really, it's just an excuse for Allen to go back to her suspicions from the past. And her doggedness never really tracks just like the overly quick resolution of the past crime never made much sense either. The final chapter throwing a wrench in much of it is only more evidence for my request for Jackson to go thriller, because that is a thriller twist not a procedural one.
Ultimately I just didn't care enough about Allen for this to be a French-esque story. French grounds you so thoroughly in her characters that you care more about what happens to them than the crime. Allen is fine but she doesn't really get to be a full person. She seems to have had almost no life in the 30 years between the two stories, and has not changed much at all.
Going deep isn't really working for Jackson, but I think she could do a pretty good job at focusing more on plot and leaning in there.
Review of advance copy received from Author
MISSING by E.A. Jackson
Publication: March 2026 by Atria/ Emily Bestier Books
Grade: B+
A highly entertaining debut novel by E.A. Jackson. This marvelous British police procedural spans decades and juxtaposes the original investigation of the baby kidnapping in the sweltering heat of August 1990 with that of the re-investigation thirty years later due to the death of Nell Beatty. Six month old baby, Bella Carpenter, lies in her crib near the window of a London hotel. Her parents slightly raise the window due to the unbearable heat, and retire to bed, only to rise in the morning to a vacant crib. Detective Inspector Martha Allen is assigned to the case and embarks on an extensive investigation without any apparent objective clue to the kidnapping culprit. The crucial twenty-four time limit has passed, she is being pounded with media criticism as well as snipes from her supervisors. A couple of days have passed, and a young women, possibly 18 or 19, brings a baby to the station, saying she found it on a park bench. Before, Allen and complete her questioning, she opts to go to the restroom, and sneaks out. The baby’s parents return to the police and are overjoyed at the baby’s return.
Detective Allen remains suspicious of this apparent resolution, but is told to stand down by her superiors.. Thirty years later, Allen is notified by a colleague of the death of Nell Beatty. This leads to a just reason for her to reopen her investigation by delving into the history of Nell’s life leading up to her demise. Ultimately further evidence is uncovered referable to the original kidnapping. Multiple unexpected twists will be uncovered in regards to the motivations of most of the primary characters. Multiple themes will be explored, such as poverty, drug and spousal abuse, as well as truth and justice.
Even though the morally conflicted Detective Martha Allen’s career has slowly progressed to one of leadership in the police force, she remains haunted by the uneasy feeling that the original resolution of the case with the return of the baby was suspicious , and was told to refrain from further investigation. This character driven novel excelled in its extensive development of Allen’s psyche and psychological motivations. At points the narrative became bogged down in the realistic portrayal of the tedious nature of police investigation. However, it more than redeemed itself with plot twists and unexpected explorations of hidden motivations of the primary characters. This is a morally layered mystery which prioritizes realism and psychological depth over action. The author thoughtfully explores the realities of poverty, social marginalization, and criticism of the police investigative
system, along with the nature of guilt and innocence. I certainly look forward to E.A. Jackson’s next immersive offering.
Publication: March 2026 by Atria/ Emily Bestier Books
Grade: B+
A highly entertaining debut novel by E.A. Jackson. This marvelous British police procedural spans decades and juxtaposes the original investigation of the baby kidnapping in the sweltering heat of August 1990 with that of the re-investigation thirty years later due to the death of Nell Beatty. Six month old baby, Bella Carpenter, lies in her crib near the window of a London hotel. Her parents slightly raise the window due to the unbearable heat, and retire to bed, only to rise in the morning to a vacant crib. Detective Inspector Martha Allen is assigned to the case and embarks on an extensive investigation without any apparent objective clue to the kidnapping culprit. The crucial twenty-four time limit has passed, she is being pounded with media criticism as well as snipes from her supervisors. A couple of days have passed, and a young women, possibly 18 or 19, brings a baby to the station, saying she found it on a park bench. Before, Allen and complete her questioning, she opts to go to the restroom, and sneaks out. The baby’s parents return to the police and are overjoyed at the baby’s return.
Detective Allen remains suspicious of this apparent resolution, but is told to stand down by her superiors.. Thirty years later, Allen is notified by a colleague of the death of Nell Beatty. This leads to a just reason for her to reopen her investigation by delving into the history of Nell’s life leading up to her demise. Ultimately further evidence is uncovered referable to the original kidnapping. Multiple unexpected twists will be uncovered in regards to the motivations of most of the primary characters. Multiple themes will be explored, such as poverty, drug and spousal abuse, as well as truth and justice.
Even though the morally conflicted Detective Martha Allen’s career has slowly progressed to one of leadership in the police force, she remains haunted by the uneasy feeling that the original resolution of the case with the return of the baby was suspicious , and was told to refrain from further investigation. This character driven novel excelled in its extensive development of Allen’s psyche and psychological motivations. At points the narrative became bogged down in the realistic portrayal of the tedious nature of police investigation. However, it more than redeemed itself with plot twists and unexpected explorations of hidden motivations of the primary characters. This is a morally layered mystery which prioritizes realism and psychological depth over action. The author thoughtfully explores the realities of poverty, social marginalization, and criticism of the police investigative
system, along with the nature of guilt and innocence. I certainly look forward to E.A. Jackson’s next immersive offering.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This was an unexpectedly wonderful read. Set in London, the book follows Detective Inspector Martha Allen, who catches the 1990 case of a missing baby in a somewhat sketchy London hotel. When the police arrive, the parents are utterly distraught (the mother has actually been sedated), and they go all out to find 5 month old Bella, who was snatched through an open window in the middle of the night, without waking the parents. This seems unlikely to DI Allen, but she and her team find clues, though most are frustrating dead ends.
Then, a few days into the search, a young woman walks into the police station with the missing baby. The parents are thrilled, and the higher ups are certain the case is closed. Somehow, though, Allen can’t let it go. She feels something is off about the dad but she’s warned to back off and she mostly does until 30 years later, when the young woman who brought the baby to the station is discovered dead on a park bench in a seedy section of London.
The character of Allen as much as the plot drives the story. Allen is a hard worker who has been herself obsessed with having her own child with no success. To a degree, it colors her view of the case. The book is also quite matter of fact about the sexism Allen encounters as she rises through the ranks. Her intelligence and professionalism cements her solid rise in job status but she’s never one of the guys, and to that degree, the skepticism the other cops feel toward her reactions hinders any progress she might have made on the baby Bella case.
However, when the dead woman turns up, she turns to an old colleague for help. The body has been discovered on his patch and with his help she begins to again take apart the puzzle of baby Bella. The police work is meticulous and well thought out but never dull. It’s a believable mix of routine and lucky discoveries. Allen works well with her old colleague who is one of the few men to take her more seriously, perhaps because she extended the same courtesy to him back when he was a fresh Detective Constable on the baby Bella case.
I always love a book that gets to the middle and I have no idea where it’s going next. Like Allen’s colleagues, I thought the case was settled, but as she continues to work it, more and more clues and facts emerge that paint a different picture. The solution was not what I’d expected either, and it even upends some of Allen’s assumptions about the way things went back in 1990, and how they’re going in 2020. Like all the best twists in a novel, the ending is both a surprise and a well set up solution by this intelligent author. I could not stop reading.
Then, a few days into the search, a young woman walks into the police station with the missing baby. The parents are thrilled, and the higher ups are certain the case is closed. Somehow, though, Allen can’t let it go. She feels something is off about the dad but she’s warned to back off and she mostly does until 30 years later, when the young woman who brought the baby to the station is discovered dead on a park bench in a seedy section of London.
The character of Allen as much as the plot drives the story. Allen is a hard worker who has been herself obsessed with having her own child with no success. To a degree, it colors her view of the case. The book is also quite matter of fact about the sexism Allen encounters as she rises through the ranks. Her intelligence and professionalism cements her solid rise in job status but she’s never one of the guys, and to that degree, the skepticism the other cops feel toward her reactions hinders any progress she might have made on the baby Bella case.
However, when the dead woman turns up, she turns to an old colleague for help. The body has been discovered on his patch and with his help she begins to again take apart the puzzle of baby Bella. The police work is meticulous and well thought out but never dull. It’s a believable mix of routine and lucky discoveries. Allen works well with her old colleague who is one of the few men to take her more seriously, perhaps because she extended the same courtesy to him back when he was a fresh Detective Constable on the baby Bella case.
I always love a book that gets to the middle and I have no idea where it’s going next. Like Allen’s colleagues, I thought the case was settled, but as she continues to work it, more and more clues and facts emerge that paint a different picture. The solution was not what I’d expected either, and it even upends some of Allen’s assumptions about the way things went back in 1990, and how they’re going in 2020. Like all the best twists in a novel, the ending is both a surprise and a well set up solution by this intelligent author. I could not stop reading.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
In Missing by EA Jackson, a young couple holidays during a heatwave in 1990, cracking open a window in their hotel to cool down. During the night, their baby goes missing. Martha Allen is the Detective Inspector assigned to the case, chasing down leads, and is left flummoxed when a woman walks in with a baby she claims to be missing Bella. In 2020, that woman is found murdered, and it sparks the obsession Martha Allen thought she’d finally laid to rest all those years ago.
This book is an oddity to me at least, because with mysteries, I usually have a solid theory by at least SOME point in the novel. Right or wrong, I have an idea. This book left me perplexed and I wasn’t sure what to think—right up to the end. That was pretty refreshing.
There are dual timelines, obviously; the first half tackles the Bella case, although the synopsis gives away the conclusion for that. The second then covers Nell’s murder, and during that, Allen is tracking down leads to help her understand what truly happened with Bella decades earlier. I liked Allen as a character; she had empathy and was intelligent. Her motherhood struggles also paralleled the cases and helped to tie them together. I also liked her friendship with Desbury; with him as a black officer, and with her being a woman, they could bond over how poorly treated they were by others for not fitting the preconceived mould for police work.
If there’s a drawback, I would say that the blurb tells a reader what happens, so there’s not a lot of urgency with finding Bella.
The end twist was CRAZY though, so that was fun! I was eager to turn the pages and see what the conclusion would be.
I would recommend this to people into modern crime who like dual timelines.
I received a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This book is an oddity to me at least, because with mysteries, I usually have a solid theory by at least SOME point in the novel. Right or wrong, I have an idea. This book left me perplexed and I wasn’t sure what to think—right up to the end. That was pretty refreshing.
There are dual timelines, obviously; the first half tackles the Bella case, although the synopsis gives away the conclusion for that. The second then covers Nell’s murder, and during that, Allen is tracking down leads to help her understand what truly happened with Bella decades earlier. I liked Allen as a character; she had empathy and was intelligent. Her motherhood struggles also paralleled the cases and helped to tie them together. I also liked her friendship with Desbury; with him as a black officer, and with her being a woman, they could bond over how poorly treated they were by others for not fitting the preconceived mould for police work.
If there’s a drawback, I would say that the blurb tells a reader what happens, so there’s not a lot of urgency with finding Bella.
The end twist was CRAZY though, so that was fun! I was eager to turn the pages and see what the conclusion would be.
I would recommend this to people into modern crime who like dual timelines.
I received a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
December 10, 2025
A baby was kidnapped in London and returned unharmed to the local police station a few days later. A miraculous and joyful occasion, right? But DI Martha Allen isn’t buying it. Nothing about the situation feels right to her, even though everyone tells her to let it go, that the impossible sometimes does happen. But it continues to plague her for decades, until thirty years later, there’s an update. The woman who ‘found’ the baby and brought her in was herself found murdered. And once again, Martha is drawn into the Baby Bella case. And this time, she’s not going to let it go.
The first part of the story is told in the past during the original investigation, while the second is in the present. Misogyny in the police force unsurprisingly features in both time frames. But the friendship between Martha and Manley, a lower-ranking officer on her team, is a bright spot, and their interactions in the present timeframe especially make you thankful for those associates who go the extra mile and remain loyal.
The ending is unexpected to the plot, but maybe not to the readers. Because you know that there had to be some kind of explanation for all the ‘off’ behavior that Martha picked up on, and really, with the whole situation in general. While reading, I was like, ‘There better be a good explanation for the weirdness of it all.’ And there was, so I was satisfied in that regard, but I’m not sure if other readers will appreciate it or think it too much of a reach. When they say truth is stranger than fiction, they mean it, so I’m sure similar situations have occurred. And I can’t deny that I was deeply engaged in the story and determined to understand what was going on. I’ll definitely be keeping this author on my radar.
The first part of the story is told in the past during the original investigation, while the second is in the present. Misogyny in the police force unsurprisingly features in both time frames. But the friendship between Martha and Manley, a lower-ranking officer on her team, is a bright spot, and their interactions in the present timeframe especially make you thankful for those associates who go the extra mile and remain loyal.
The ending is unexpected to the plot, but maybe not to the readers. Because you know that there had to be some kind of explanation for all the ‘off’ behavior that Martha picked up on, and really, with the whole situation in general. While reading, I was like, ‘There better be a good explanation for the weirdness of it all.’ And there was, so I was satisfied in that regard, but I’m not sure if other readers will appreciate it or think it too much of a reach. When they say truth is stranger than fiction, they mean it, so I’m sure similar situations have occurred. And I can’t deny that I was deeply engaged in the story and determined to understand what was going on. I’ll definitely be keeping this author on my radar.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Missing is a solid mystery. It's definitely more plodding slow burn than action-packed and exciting, however. There's a lot of thinking and talking about the case as well as a ton of description. The book is divided into two parts. The first is about the kidnapping of baby Bella and the second is about the murder of the woman who brought Bella to the police station. I was surprised to find that over half the book was about the kidnapping even though we already know what the outcome will be. Surprisingly, I actually ended up enjoying that part more as there was more urgency to the case and a bit more action. It was also a good way to introduce all the players and give us their backstories. The second part was more tedious, but I was invested in the story so it kept me reading. I had to know what the truth would turn out to be. I liked the characters of Allen and Desbury, although sometimes it felt as though Allen wasn't very bright. Like one time she goes to interview someone and their name is on the front, but a man answers the door. She is all apologetic and explains that she must have the wrong address. She doesn't think that maybe the woman she is looking for lives with a man? Then another time she is interviewing someone, the person says that she was living with two other people and then they left. Allen gets confused and asks what she means. She means they left. I don't really see how it's confusing.
Overall, I thought this was a solid, well-written mystery and I wouldn't mind seeing Allen and Desbury in a future book. I would personally prefer more excitement and less introspection and description, but I still enjoyed Missing for the most part. I give it 3.5 stars rounded up.
Thank you NetGalley and Atria Books for the ARC.
Overall, I thought this was a solid, well-written mystery and I wouldn't mind seeing Allen and Desbury in a future book. I would personally prefer more excitement and less introspection and description, but I still enjoyed Missing for the most part. I give it 3.5 stars rounded up.
Thank you NetGalley and Atria Books for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
ARC
I'd like to thank Atria, Atria/Emily Bestler Books, and NetGalley for the chance to give "Missing" an early read in return for an honest review.
E.A. Jackson's "Missing" is a slow-burn mystery, moving along at a glacial pace at times as we find out exactly what happened to baby Bella. The central story was intriguing, especially as detectives try to figure out exactly what was going on early in the case. Once things started getting resolved, however, is where the novel took a bit of a dip. We see a lead seemingly obsessed with a case over decades, never forgetting about one case that's been itching at her, until she's able to find herself involved, yet again, with aspects of the case.
I found this to be digging around in a bunch of tropes that really brought the story down, as I was able to deduce exactly what was going on once I realized what was happening. These tropes make Allen feel one-note, and while she does have a backstory, there is little personality or defining features that make her fully realized. All of this together made for a lead that felt dreadfully dull, which in turn made the novel a bit of a snooze. But, there are aspects that I enjoyed, especially early on in the investigation, where there seemed to be a spark with all the characters. It made for a read that felt exiciting, which unfortunatly didn't last long, but was nice when we actually got it.
Overall, "Missing" was a bit of a miss for me. I wanted so much more depth to these characters, rather than relying on tropes to propel these characters. The story itself was interesting enough, and if the characters would have had the same energy the story had, this might have been a home-run.
Be sure to check "Missing" out when it is published on March 17, 2026!
I'd like to thank Atria, Atria/Emily Bestler Books, and NetGalley for the chance to give "Missing" an early read in return for an honest review.
E.A. Jackson's "Missing" is a slow-burn mystery, moving along at a glacial pace at times as we find out exactly what happened to baby Bella. The central story was intriguing, especially as detectives try to figure out exactly what was going on early in the case. Once things started getting resolved, however, is where the novel took a bit of a dip. We see a lead seemingly obsessed with a case over decades, never forgetting about one case that's been itching at her, until she's able to find herself involved, yet again, with aspects of the case.
I found this to be digging around in a bunch of tropes that really brought the story down, as I was able to deduce exactly what was going on once I realized what was happening. These tropes make Allen feel one-note, and while she does have a backstory, there is little personality or defining features that make her fully realized. All of this together made for a lead that felt dreadfully dull, which in turn made the novel a bit of a snooze. But, there are aspects that I enjoyed, especially early on in the investigation, where there seemed to be a spark with all the characters. It made for a read that felt exiciting, which unfortunatly didn't last long, but was nice when we actually got it.
Overall, "Missing" was a bit of a miss for me. I wanted so much more depth to these characters, rather than relying on tropes to propel these characters. The story itself was interesting enough, and if the characters would have had the same energy the story had, this might have been a home-run.
Be sure to check "Missing" out when it is published on March 17, 2026!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
"𝘚𝘩𝘦'𝘴 𝘣𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘨𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘢𝘯 𝘰𝘳𝘥𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘰 𝘭𝘦𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘤𝘢𝘴𝘦 𝘨𝘰, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘴𝘩𝘦'𝘴 𝘣𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘵𝘳𝘺𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘰 𝘰𝘣𝘦𝘺 𝘪𝘵 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘤𝘦."
What begins as a missing baby investigation in 1990 quickly morphs into a captivating character study spanning three decades, culminating in a murder mystery. Though the baby is found by a young woman, Nell, and taken to the police station, effectively closing the case, the detective in charge, Martha Allen, continues to suspect foul play. When Nell is found dead in 2020, Allen—who never let her doubts go—is resolved to finally uncover the truth.
Martha's perspective will grab your attention immediately. Told primarily from her POV, she's extremely likable, and readers will easily empathize with her. She's professional, a dogged investigator, yet remains vulnerable as a woman navigating a male-dominated profession while balancing her personal life and family concerns. 𝙉𝙞𝙘𝙤𝙡𝙖 𝙒𝙖𝙡𝙠𝙚𝙧'𝙨 performance for the audiobook is superb, adding nuances of emotion as Martha first investigates the missing baby, leaning into her intuition and pursuit of facts—and again later as her fierce perseverance drives her to delve into Nell's death. The pacing is even and steady, creating a strong desire for more details as information is uncovered. The conclusion creeps up in a stellar fashion and when everything comes full circle, it's simultaneously satisfying, surprising, and emotional!
𝙀.𝘼. 𝙅𝙖𝙘𝙠𝙨𝙤𝙣 has masterfully entwined thought-provoking themes involving motherhood, career, and sexism into an engaging and expansive mystery. Armchair detectives who savor slow-burn character-driven stories with procedural aspects will enjoy 𝗠𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴!
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Thank you Emily Bestler Books, Atria Books and Simon Audio for my gifted copies. All opinions are my own and left voluntarily.
What begins as a missing baby investigation in 1990 quickly morphs into a captivating character study spanning three decades, culminating in a murder mystery. Though the baby is found by a young woman, Nell, and taken to the police station, effectively closing the case, the detective in charge, Martha Allen, continues to suspect foul play. When Nell is found dead in 2020, Allen—who never let her doubts go—is resolved to finally uncover the truth.
Martha's perspective will grab your attention immediately. Told primarily from her POV, she's extremely likable, and readers will easily empathize with her. She's professional, a dogged investigator, yet remains vulnerable as a woman navigating a male-dominated profession while balancing her personal life and family concerns. 𝙉𝙞𝙘𝙤𝙡𝙖 𝙒𝙖𝙡𝙠𝙚𝙧'𝙨 performance for the audiobook is superb, adding nuances of emotion as Martha first investigates the missing baby, leaning into her intuition and pursuit of facts—and again later as her fierce perseverance drives her to delve into Nell's death. The pacing is even and steady, creating a strong desire for more details as information is uncovered. The conclusion creeps up in a stellar fashion and when everything comes full circle, it's simultaneously satisfying, surprising, and emotional!
𝙀.𝘼. 𝙅𝙖𝙘𝙠𝙨𝙤𝙣 has masterfully entwined thought-provoking themes involving motherhood, career, and sexism into an engaging and expansive mystery. Armchair detectives who savor slow-burn character-driven stories with procedural aspects will enjoy 𝗠𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴!
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Thank you Emily Bestler Books, Atria Books and Simon Audio for my gifted copies. All opinions are my own and left voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This story unfolds across two timelines spanning thirty years.
Part One - 1990.
Baby Bella Carpenter is snatched from her parents’ hotel room in the middle of the night. The case is eventually “solved”… but something about it doesn’t sit right with DI Allen. She believes there are still missing pieces, loose threads that haven’t been pulled.
Unfortunately, she’s ordered to leave the case alone. The investigation is closed. Everyone moves on. Or at least… they try to.
Part Two - Thirty years later.
A present-day case suddenly connects back to the original investigation when the woman who once brought Bella to the police station turns up dead. And just like that, the past comes clawing its way back. For DI Allen, it’s finally the chance she’s waited decades for - to uncover what really happened to Bella Carpenter.
Now, I’ll be honest, this one felt much longer than it actually was. There was a lot of repetition, a lot of over-explaining, and the story spends time walking through almost every step of the investigation in detail. Because of that, the pacing felt pretty slow and I found myself close to giving up a few times. Especially when Bella is found fairly early in the book, which left me thinking… okay, where exactly is this going now? But, I’m glad I stuck with it.
Because the final few chapters are where everything finally clicks into place. The pace picks up, the tension ramps up, and the story delivers some solid reveals that made the ending genuinely satisfying. The premise itself is really strong - a decades-old case resurfacing with new connections is always a good hook - I just think the execution didn’t quite hit the mark for me.
Still, those last chapters definitely redeemed it a little.
Part One - 1990.
Baby Bella Carpenter is snatched from her parents’ hotel room in the middle of the night. The case is eventually “solved”… but something about it doesn’t sit right with DI Allen. She believes there are still missing pieces, loose threads that haven’t been pulled.
Unfortunately, she’s ordered to leave the case alone. The investigation is closed. Everyone moves on. Or at least… they try to.
Part Two - Thirty years later.
A present-day case suddenly connects back to the original investigation when the woman who once brought Bella to the police station turns up dead. And just like that, the past comes clawing its way back. For DI Allen, it’s finally the chance she’s waited decades for - to uncover what really happened to Bella Carpenter.
Now, I’ll be honest, this one felt much longer than it actually was. There was a lot of repetition, a lot of over-explaining, and the story spends time walking through almost every step of the investigation in detail. Because of that, the pacing felt pretty slow and I found myself close to giving up a few times. Especially when Bella is found fairly early in the book, which left me thinking… okay, where exactly is this going now? But, I’m glad I stuck with it.
Because the final few chapters are where everything finally clicks into place. The pace picks up, the tension ramps up, and the story delivers some solid reveals that made the ending genuinely satisfying. The premise itself is really strong - a decades-old case resurfacing with new connections is always a good hook - I just think the execution didn’t quite hit the mark for me.
Still, those last chapters definitely redeemed it a little.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
thank you to faber for sending me a proof copy of this book!✨️
i think this is the first time i have finished a mystery novel & found myself hurting because of its conclusion, but in the best way possible.
martha allen is an incredible protagonist, she is kind without being a pushover, a competent leader without being abraisive & when she digs into the details that others miss you know it's because she is just really, really good at her job. i loved seeing the differences in her atittitude & work ethic, whether she was still trying to make a name for herself in 1990 or whether she was trying to figure out what life could look like for her in 2020.
i was gripped immediately by e.a. jackson's ability to build a scene & i keep thinking back to the description of the hot, dim room in the bellevue hotel, i could literally feel how thick the air was, how uncomfortable it would have been & everyone within the room's desire to simply not be there.
this is also one of the rare times i HAVEN'T seen the conclusion coming from a mile off & as the reveal drew closer & closer i kept asking myself how this would all wrap up: i was not disappointed.
the exploration of sexism & misogyny within the MET, how the attitudes hadn't really changed in 30 years & the way in which being around said attitudes can grind a woman down were incredibly refreshing to read. i don't often get to read about female detectives who ARE actually affected & concerned about the way their peers carry themselves.
overall, i think 'missing' was a fantastic mystery with compelling characters & a clear vision & i cannot WAIT for the next installment.
i think this is the first time i have finished a mystery novel & found myself hurting because of its conclusion, but in the best way possible.
martha allen is an incredible protagonist, she is kind without being a pushover, a competent leader without being abraisive & when she digs into the details that others miss you know it's because she is just really, really good at her job. i loved seeing the differences in her atittitude & work ethic, whether she was still trying to make a name for herself in 1990 or whether she was trying to figure out what life could look like for her in 2020.
i was gripped immediately by e.a. jackson's ability to build a scene & i keep thinking back to the description of the hot, dim room in the bellevue hotel, i could literally feel how thick the air was, how uncomfortable it would have been & everyone within the room's desire to simply not be there.
this is also one of the rare times i HAVEN'T seen the conclusion coming from a mile off & as the reveal drew closer & closer i kept asking myself how this would all wrap up: i was not disappointed.
the exploration of sexism & misogyny within the MET, how the attitudes hadn't really changed in 30 years & the way in which being around said attitudes can grind a woman down were incredibly refreshing to read. i don't often get to read about female detectives who ARE actually affected & concerned about the way their peers carry themselves.
overall, i think 'missing' was a fantastic mystery with compelling characters & a clear vision & i cannot WAIT for the next installment.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Missing by E.A. Jackson is a solid, well-written mystery with a decidedly slow-burn approach. It leans more toward introspection and detailed description than fast-paced action, with much of the story spent thinking through and discussing the case rather than chasing clues.
The novel is divided into two parts: the kidnapping of baby Bella, followed by the murder of the woman who later brings Bella to the police station. I was surprised to find that more than half of the book focuses on the kidnapping, even though the outcome is known early on. Interestingly, this ended up being the stronger section for me. There was more urgency and momentum, and it served as an effective way to introduce the characters and explore their backstories.
The second half, while more methodical and at times tedious, still kept me engaged because I was invested in uncovering the truth. I particularly enjoyed the characters of Allen and Desbury, who felt refreshingly different from those in a typical police procedural. The novel is populated with strong supporting characters and delivers several emotional moments, and readers may be surprised by where the story ultimately leads.
Overall, Missing is a thoughtful and compelling mystery, even if it occasionally leans too heavily into introspection for my taste. The sections set in the past were long and slow, and I felt the introduction to Nell took more time than necessary. I would have preferred more tension and excitement, but I still enjoyed the book and wouldn’t mind seeing Allen and Desbury return in a future installment.
Rating: 3.5 stars (rounded up).
Thanks NetGalley and Atria Books for an advanced copy of this story.
The novel is divided into two parts: the kidnapping of baby Bella, followed by the murder of the woman who later brings Bella to the police station. I was surprised to find that more than half of the book focuses on the kidnapping, even though the outcome is known early on. Interestingly, this ended up being the stronger section for me. There was more urgency and momentum, and it served as an effective way to introduce the characters and explore their backstories.
The second half, while more methodical and at times tedious, still kept me engaged because I was invested in uncovering the truth. I particularly enjoyed the characters of Allen and Desbury, who felt refreshingly different from those in a typical police procedural. The novel is populated with strong supporting characters and delivers several emotional moments, and readers may be surprised by where the story ultimately leads.
Overall, Missing is a thoughtful and compelling mystery, even if it occasionally leans too heavily into introspection for my taste. The sections set in the past were long and slow, and I felt the introduction to Nell took more time than necessary. I would have preferred more tension and excitement, but I still enjoyed the book and wouldn’t mind seeing Allen and Desbury return in a future installment.
Rating: 3.5 stars (rounded up).
Thanks NetGalley and Atria Books for an advanced copy of this story.
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