Book Review ~ "Missing Melissa" by Alretha Thomas

Missing Melissa by Alretha Thomas
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Source; Received from the Author to Review
Genre: New Adult Mystery/Romance

Book Description:  Twenty-two years old with a journalism degree from UCLA and a promising entry level position at a television station, Madeline Patterson is ready to take on the Universe. Raised by two loving parents, adored by her grandmother, protected by her dog, Pepper, and supported by her best friend—Madeline has it all. There’s only one thing missing—literally missing—her identical twin, Melissa.

When Madeline and Melissa were three-years-old, their mother was carjacked in broad daylight while taking them to a doctor’s appointment. She was able to get away with Madeline in tow, but the assailants left the scene before she could rescue Melissa. A long and massive search ensued, but Melissa was never found and is believed to be dead. However, a dream Madeline has on her twenty-second birthday, wherein Melissa appears to her as a grown woman pleading for help, convinces her Melissa is still alive. Against her parents’ wishes, Madeline vows to find her twin. However, in doing so, she unknowingly stumbles upon a series of startling clues that point to her parents’ possible involvement in Melissa’s disappearance. Paralyzed by fear, Madeline doesn’t want to face what could possibly be the ugly and grim truth about her parents. However, her desire to find Melissa propels her forward—but nothing could prepare her for what she discovers.


My thoughts: Identical twins are separated during a carjacking when they are three. On their twenty-second birthday Madeline decides to re-open the case to find her sister, Melissa.

This book had many positive things going for it. I really liked Madeline and her BFF, Ruby, characters. They are two young women support and help each other through everything life throws at them, even when they disagree.

I found the process that Madeline used to find her sister to be well thought out. Alretha Thomas did a wonderful job at building the story and making it interesting. The "who-done-it" surprised me. I didn't see it coming. That was refreshing. When it was explained, it all made perfect sense.

The book has a good mystery. Madeline is on the hunt for her sister and the community support is incredible. People help her piece the puzzle together.

The book also contains a sweet romance. I thought the love interest was a great guy and perfect for her. The book does contain some sexual innuendo and swearing, including the "f" bomb.

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