Book Review: The Missing by E.K. Frances

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Where reality and magic start to overlap, The Missing by E.K. Frances offers an exciting, imaginative ride into a world that’s equal parts dangerous, whimsical, and emotionally grounded.

The story follows Connor, a boy whose ordinary life takes a wild turn when he stumbles upon a portal to a magical world. From that point on, it’s one challenge after another—missing children, mysterious creatures, and unexpected allies, including a dragon with attitude and a magical key. Joined by his loyal friend Jess, Connor’s journey isn’t just about battling beasts and escaping danger—it’s also about facing his deepest fears, especially the idea of losing someone he loves most.

Frances’s storytelling is clear, vivid, and easy to get lost in. The magical world is well imagined, and the pacing keeps things moving without dragging. The characters feel believable—even the fantastical ones—because they all bring something real to the story, whether it’s friendship, fear, loyalty, or courage. The Kindle edition is cleanly formatted and visually appealing, which makes the reading experience even smoother.

This book is a great fit for middle-grade and younger teen readers who enjoy fantasy adventures with high stakes and emotional depth. There’s a good mix of action, heart, and humor, and while it draws from familiar fantasy elements, it does so with a fresh, contemporary twist. The editing is solid and the story flows well, which helps keep the reader fully engaged from beginning to end.

If fantasy isn’t your thing, this probably won’t be your favorite read. But if you like magical quests, loyal sidekicks, and stories that mix suspense with heartfelt moments, this is a solid pick. Fans of authors like J.K. Rowling or Rick Riordan will likely enjoy the similar balance of magic, adventure, and relatable characters.

Overall, The Missing is a well-crafted fantasy adventure with real heart. It’s entertaining, emotionally resonant, and full of imaginative twists. E.K. Frances delivers a story that feels familiar in the best way, while still bringing something unique to the table—especially for younger readers looking for a story that’s as brave and thoughtful as its main character.



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