The Bookish Ashley

Victoria Wlosok’s debut novel, How to Find a Missing Girl, is a gripping blend of mystery, suspense, and emotional depth that hooks readers from the very first page. This young adult thriller, with its compelling protagonist and intricate plot, will keep you turning pages late into the night.

The story follows Iris Blackthorn, a determined teenager whose life was upended when her sister Stella, a beloved cheerleader, vanished a year ago. Iris’s initial attempts to find Stella led to dead ends and a stern warning from the authorities: once she turns eighteen, further interference could land her in prison. Despite the warning, Iris can’t let go of her need for answers, especially when her ex-girlfriend Heather, a true crime podcaster, goes missing after releasing a controversial episode about Stella’s disappearance.

Wlosok expertly weaves a tale of suspense and personal struggle as Iris forms an amateur sleuthing agency to unravel the mystery surrounding both disappearances. With a suspicious detective on her trail, a complicated relationship with an enemy-turned-friend, and a ticking clock as her eighteenth birthday approaches, Iris faces a race against time to uncover the truth.

One of the novel’s greatest strengths is its well-developed characters. Iris is a relatable and sympathetic heroine, driven by love and desperation. Her complexity as a character, dealing with the pain of her sister’s disappearance and the added pressure of Heather’s vanishing, adds layers to the narrative. The supporting characters, including the enigmatic detective and the friend who might be something more, are equally engaging and add depth to the story.

Wlosok’s writing style is crisp and engaging, perfectly suited for a thriller. The pacing is generally well-managed, with tension building steadily throughout the novel. However, there are moments where the plot feels a bit rushed, particularly towards the climax. Some plot twists, while surprising, could have benefited from more foreshadowing to enhance their impact.

The exploration of themes such as loss, love, and the pursuit of justice is handled with sensitivity and insight. Wlosok does an excellent job of portraying the emotional turmoil that comes with searching for a missing loved one, as well as the ethical dilemmas involved in amateur sleuthing.

While How to Find a Missing Girl is a strong debut, it does have a few shortcomings. The resolution, while satisfying, leaves a few loose ends that could have been tied up more neatly. Additionally, the dynamics between Iris and her various relationships, while compelling, sometimes overshadow the central mystery.

Overall, How to Find a Missing Girl is a captivating and emotionally resonant read that will appeal to fans of young adult mysteries and thrillers. Victoria Wlosok has crafted a memorable story with a heroine worth rooting for, and despite its minor flaws, this book is a promising start to what could be a successful writing career. If you’re looking for a page-turner with heart, this novel is well worth your time.

Rating: 3.75/5 stars