A review by steveinadelaide
The Vanished Ones by Donato Carrisi

dark emotional mysterious tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

If you're searching for a gripping book that will have you hooked, look no further than Donato Carrisi’s THE VANISHED ONES. This thrilling crime novel takes you on a roller coaster of unexpected twists and turns. Although it is the second instalment in the Mila Vasquez series, it can be enjoyed as a standalone story. Mila Vasquez, a detective specialising in locating missing individuals, carries the weight of a haunting past. When she is assigned to investigate a series of disappearances, she quickly realises that there's more to this case than meets the eye. The victims are not chosen randomly; they all share a connection that someone's willing to kill for. Mila must confront her demons and rely on her instincts to uncover the truth before time runs out.

THE VANISHED ONES is a charged book that will evoke fear, anger, sadness and hope within its readers. Carrisi skillfully crafts an ambience and weaves a complex storyline that will keep you guessing until the very end. Alongside the gripping plot, he delves into thought-provoking themes such as the nature of evil, the impact of memory and the essence of identity.

The characters in this book are incredibly well-developed. They feel like real people, each with their own flaws and motivations. Mila, the protagonist, is a determined character. She also has a vulnerable side that makes her relatable. The antagonist is a ruthless villain. There's a deeper explanation for his actions through his backstory. Additionally, the presence of supporting characters adds depth and diversity to the story.

Carrisi’s writing skillfully paints descriptions and incorporates intricate details to construct a realistic setting that immerses readers into the mood and tone of the story. The writing style flows smoothly, keeping readers engaged with its pace and short chapters that make it nearly impossible to put down. Carrisi cleverly employs techniques such as flashbacks, foreshadowing and red herrings to evoke tension and create intrigue. Elements of horror and sci-fi, such as gore, violence, and mind control,l heighten the thrilling excitement of the narrative.

I enthusiastically recommend THE VANISHED ONES to anyone who enjoys crime thrillers or mysteries. This book will provoke thoughts while evoking emotions within you. It will keep you guessing with its twists and turns. Once you've finished reading it, this remarkable book will linger in your mind for quite some time since it stands out as one of the best crime thrillers I've come across this year. This book is absolutely brilliant. It's captivating and genuinely unforgettable.