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Vanished
One brother vanished. The other must become a monster to find him.
Roman Salisbury was the light in Noah Beach's world. Then the light went out.
When Roman disappears after being invited to Lockwood University, Noah forces his way into the school determined to bring him home. But Lockwood is no ordinary university. It is a sanctuary for witches, wizards, and werewolves, hidden behind prestige and ancient magic.
To survive, Noah must turn every lie into a weapon and pull off the most dangerous con of his convincing the entire University that he is a vampire.
The deeper he sinks into Lockwood's secrets, the more he feels himself slipping into someone colder, sharper, and far more dangerous.
Because at Lockwood, power comes at a price.
And blood remembers everything.
Noah must decide how much of himself he is willing to lose to uncover the truth before he vanishes to.
A dark academia fantasy about brotherhood, grief, and the cost of becoming what the world fears.
Roman Salisbury was the light in Noah Beach's world. Then the light went out.
When Roman disappears after being invited to Lockwood University, Noah forces his way into the school determined to bring him home. But Lockwood is no ordinary university. It is a sanctuary for witches, wizards, and werewolves, hidden behind prestige and ancient magic.
To survive, Noah must turn every lie into a weapon and pull off the most dangerous con of his convincing the entire University that he is a vampire.
The deeper he sinks into Lockwood's secrets, the more he feels himself slipping into someone colder, sharper, and far more dangerous.
Because at Lockwood, power comes at a price.
And blood remembers everything.
Noah must decide how much of himself he is willing to lose to uncover the truth before he vanishes to.
A dark academia fantasy about brotherhood, grief, and the cost of becoming what the world fears.
369 pages, Paperback
Published November 18, 2025
About the author
J.J. Foraday
2 books27 followersJ.J. Foraday writes dark academia and supernatural fiction, blending mystery, moral ambiguity, and hidden worlds that exist just beneath our own.
Their debut novel, Lockwood University: Vanished, is the first book of a planned trilogy. The sequel to Vanished is expected late summer 2026.
When not writing, J.J. Foraday travels with his partner, or you will catch him walking his Yorkie-poo.
Their debut novel, Lockwood University: Vanished, is the first book of a planned trilogy. The sequel to Vanished is expected late summer 2026.
When not writing, J.J. Foraday travels with his partner, or you will catch him walking his Yorkie-poo.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
June 23, 2026
I enjoyed this magical mysterie. It had some really great parts. Loved the magical school with all the supernatural creatures. There was a great plottwist and a great build up to the question where his brother was. Also loved the humor in it. Laughed out loud a couple of times.
There were also a few things I did miss in this story. I missed some depths. Like in the friendship building and the romance. It felt a bit flat. And also there were some big jumps in the story between chapters. For example one moments our mc is in the toilet talking to someone and the next moment he is chased by wolfs with no build up at all.
If you like a magical read about a hidden magical world with a magical school full of supernatural beings like vampires, wizards and shifters with a big mystery plot I would recommend to give this one a try🧛🧙🧜♀️
There were also a few things I did miss in this story. I missed some depths. Like in the friendship building and the romance. It felt a bit flat. And also there were some big jumps in the story between chapters. For example one moments our mc is in the toilet talking to someone and the next moment he is chased by wolfs with no build up at all.
If you like a magical read about a hidden magical world with a magical school full of supernatural beings like vampires, wizards and shifters with a big mystery plot I would recommend to give this one a try🧛🧙🧜♀️
June 25, 2026
HP and general supernatural fans NEED THIS BOOK. 10/10 read for me.
When i seen this and its reviews it was a must read for me its been described as Harry Potter meets ZA. So i had to JUMP at it.
Vanished is a dark academia fantasy about brotherhood, grief, and the cost of becoming what the world fears. It's also about a world within a world, aka the supernatural & the mortal world - main location in the UK. Based within the University called Lockwood - to the mortal eye its a University for pushed up rich kids, but to the supernatural - its a University for witches, werewolves and vampires!
⚠️ Trigger Warnings
Alcohol and drug abuse, mentions of grape and violence towards pregnant women. The obvious but worth mentioning death and killings.
🔥 Medium-to-slow pacing with a strong late reveal.
🐺 Supernatural academy setting (werewolves, witches, vampires)
🖤 Brotherhood and found family at the center
🩸 Mystery surrounding disappearance
💧 Grief, loyalty, and emotional instability
🌑 Tensions that builds quietly before blowing
🌶 not a spicy book
The main focus of the book is the lives of the two main characters - Roman Salisbury & Noah Beach. Both boys grew up in rough areas and had to fend for themselves, by being liars and thiefs. Because in the end, all they have. Is each other. Their little interaction at the beginning warmed my heart. Brothers by choice not by blood, and the fact that Roman has the ability to do magic but doesnt know it?? What to heck was that all about - how has party tricks been explained all his life haha.
Its been so long since I binged a book in 24 hours or less but hot damn. JJ had me hook, line & sinker. The twists, turns, dramas and traumas just kept coming... the plot was plotting. I guessed ONE of the outcomes and damn, am I proud of it!! Its was such a huge twist, to be fair ive read so much stuff its probably how/why i picked up on it 🤣
The world building was incredibly. The depictions of everything was done in amazing detail, you really got the image into your head and it made you really feel like part of the book.
One of my major favourite things about this book was how it was split into "terms" spring and summer etc. I loved that aspect it really drew you in to make you feel like you were part of the story.
My heart ripped and tore so much for Noah, and I cried at so many different stages in this book. It is seriously an emotional book, one focused on the loss of a loved one, and other fallouts of life.
I loved Eloise in the beginning not so much her sisters! Brats.. and what's Maggies deal?! Also, i didnt like Chancellor Livingston from the beginning..something fishy is there!🤣 but Vice Chancellor, Iris Montgomery seems just as bad also, that poor mortal!
One of my favourite quotes was like chap 5 or 6 lol “To reach the goal, I’ve got to get through Edward Cullen and the bloody X-Men first. If you think I’m going back in there, you’re insane.” - dont diss Edward Cullen bruh. That man is ..... ofty yup. ❤️🤣 Gimme 100 grand - i gotchu bro. Seriously?! Will that work for me too?!😱🤣 dammmm
I was on the fence about trusting Ben - if they all know what happened to Roman just be honest. Fml?.... BUT aside from Noah, Ben ended up being my favourite character in this book.
Some of my fave quotes that made me laugh alot 🤣 “You can tell a werewolf from their muscles. Everything about them is big, other than their brains.”... "thats what you get when you mix a pack with testosterone and tits" JJ seriously?? Are you trying to kill me off? 🤣🤣🤣
"Wicked bitch of the west" i cackled way to much! 🤣🤣🤣 offftyy that was a spicy way to cause chaos! I LOVE IT!!! Posting *spoiler* of a missing person using *spoiler, spoiler* ... toxic 😆😱🤣 I wasn't overly keen on ruby at the start, but I loved how she stood her ground and cackled so bad when she said “Put that picture away, or I’ll shove your mobile so far up your rectum it’ll only get WiFi in your prostate.” 👌🤣
There was so many people i disliked but Brents father (the Chancellor was the main one) fuck that guy... I can't believe i did work out the ending, well some of it... be prepared to have a heart wrenching moment thats all im saying.
PS.. that cliffhanger was hell.
I could go on (my orginal feedback i sent to JJ was over 18 paragraphs long, but boy did i rant like hell) .. so this is my shortfeedback!
Overall for plot, story, connections to the story and characters, and emotionally destroyed
10 out of 10
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
When i seen this and its reviews it was a must read for me its been described as Harry Potter meets ZA. So i had to JUMP at it.
Vanished is a dark academia fantasy about brotherhood, grief, and the cost of becoming what the world fears. It's also about a world within a world, aka the supernatural & the mortal world - main location in the UK. Based within the University called Lockwood - to the mortal eye its a University for pushed up rich kids, but to the supernatural - its a University for witches, werewolves and vampires!
⚠️ Trigger Warnings
Alcohol and drug abuse, mentions of grape and violence towards pregnant women. The obvious but worth mentioning death and killings.
🔥 Medium-to-slow pacing with a strong late reveal.
🐺 Supernatural academy setting (werewolves, witches, vampires)
🖤 Brotherhood and found family at the center
🩸 Mystery surrounding disappearance
💧 Grief, loyalty, and emotional instability
🌑 Tensions that builds quietly before blowing
🌶 not a spicy book
The main focus of the book is the lives of the two main characters - Roman Salisbury & Noah Beach. Both boys grew up in rough areas and had to fend for themselves, by being liars and thiefs. Because in the end, all they have. Is each other. Their little interaction at the beginning warmed my heart. Brothers by choice not by blood, and the fact that Roman has the ability to do magic but doesnt know it?? What to heck was that all about - how has party tricks been explained all his life haha.
Its been so long since I binged a book in 24 hours or less but hot damn. JJ had me hook, line & sinker. The twists, turns, dramas and traumas just kept coming... the plot was plotting. I guessed ONE of the outcomes and damn, am I proud of it!! Its was such a huge twist, to be fair ive read so much stuff its probably how/why i picked up on it 🤣
The world building was incredibly. The depictions of everything was done in amazing detail, you really got the image into your head and it made you really feel like part of the book.
One of my major favourite things about this book was how it was split into "terms" spring and summer etc. I loved that aspect it really drew you in to make you feel like you were part of the story.
My heart ripped and tore so much for Noah, and I cried at so many different stages in this book. It is seriously an emotional book, one focused on the loss of a loved one, and other fallouts of life.
I loved Eloise in the beginning not so much her sisters! Brats.. and what's Maggies deal?! Also, i didnt like Chancellor Livingston from the beginning..something fishy is there!🤣 but Vice Chancellor, Iris Montgomery seems just as bad also, that poor mortal!
One of my favourite quotes was like chap 5 or 6 lol “To reach the goal, I’ve got to get through Edward Cullen and the bloody X-Men first. If you think I’m going back in there, you’re insane.” - dont diss Edward Cullen bruh. That man is ..... ofty yup. ❤️🤣 Gimme 100 grand - i gotchu bro. Seriously?! Will that work for me too?!😱🤣 dammmm
I was on the fence about trusting Ben - if they all know what happened to Roman just be honest. Fml?.... BUT aside from Noah, Ben ended up being my favourite character in this book.
Some of my fave quotes that made me laugh alot 🤣 “You can tell a werewolf from their muscles. Everything about them is big, other than their brains.”... "thats what you get when you mix a pack with testosterone and tits" JJ seriously?? Are you trying to kill me off? 🤣🤣🤣
"Wicked bitch of the west" i cackled way to much! 🤣🤣🤣 offftyy that was a spicy way to cause chaos! I LOVE IT!!! Posting *spoiler* of a missing person using *spoiler, spoiler* ... toxic 😆😱🤣 I wasn't overly keen on ruby at the start, but I loved how she stood her ground and cackled so bad when she said “Put that picture away, or I’ll shove your mobile so far up your rectum it’ll only get WiFi in your prostate.” 👌🤣
There was so many people i disliked but Brents father (the Chancellor was the main one) fuck that guy... I can't believe i did work out the ending, well some of it... be prepared to have a heart wrenching moment thats all im saying.
PS.. that cliffhanger was hell.
I could go on (my orginal feedback i sent to JJ was over 18 paragraphs long, but boy did i rant like hell) .. so this is my shortfeedback!
Overall for plot, story, connections to the story and characters, and emotionally destroyed
10 out of 10
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
June 19, 2026
Vanished by J.J. Foraday is an amazing Young Adult Urban Fantasy that mixed vampires, werewolves, magic and many myths together. Noah is the main charater who receives a phone call from a mystery person who asks him to go to Lockwood University as his brother has Vanished. If you like books like harry potter, zodiac academy and twilight, you will be hooked imidiatelly into this universe. My rating is 5 starts and I could not say how much I loved this book, give a chance to his universe and you will fall in love for this series.
January 28, 2026
British Humour, Supernatural Chaos, and Comfort Characters
Vanished (Lockwood University #1) — J.J. Foraday
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“When you know, you know. Death doesn’t hurt. Life’s the painful part.”
Talk about emotional damage….
This book genuinely sucked me in instantly i was hooked from the very first page. The night I picked this up, I read until 2 a.m. and physically could not put it down, even though I was desperately trying not to fall asleep. That alone says everything.
The vibes in this book are immaculate perfectly British, incredibly cosy,deeply immersive and action packed and honestly, who doesn’t love supernatural creatures existing within a world that still feels relatable? This will definitely 1000 percent be one of my top books of 2026. I had such a genuinely good time reading it and I’m just obsessed what can I say.
The main MMC Noah beach was beautifully written. The emotional depth behind his character, his background, and the growth he goes through from start to finish, despite the trauma and the completely new world he’s thrown into, genuinely made me tear up. His journey was handled with so much care and authenticity and felt so raw and real.
The supporting characters were written so well that I found myself loving some and feeling genuine anger and hatred towards others which, to me, is the sign of excellent character writing. There are also so many badass female characters in this book, which I absolutely loved for obvious reasons. Love you Ruby 💅
I always seem to find myself especially drawn to fiction set in England. The language, the slang, the atmosphere it just feels like home. Lockwood University and Noah Beach felt incredibly real, and the world-building completely pulled me in. I’ve seen some reviews say the book has a slow start, but personally, I didn’t feel that way at all. I was gripped from the beginning, and the depth of description only added to the immersion I felt.
This book also made me laugh out loud a lot. The humour is unapologetically British and genuinely hilarious. I made so many kindle highlights purely because I was audibly laughing. I want to add I read a lot of this book in public, so people probably thought I was a bit unhinged and mad oops…
As a massive lover of vampires (and I mean MASSIVE) and all things supernatural, this book was completely up my street and right down my alley. I thoroughly enjoyed myself, even though I endured emotional trauma throughout Term 3 (and yes, the author was right Term 3 is absolutely tea filled and drama filled).I was not prepared to be crying actual tears at this book but I did and honestly I was embarrassed because again i was in a public setting oops part 2 😭
I loved the way this book ended and how perfectly it sets things up for book two. I am itching to read it and cannot wait to dive back into Lockwood University and feel right at home again with all my new comfort characters.
If you are seeing this you must add vanished to your TBR and read this at once I compel you to do so!!!! (lol)
An incredible debut novel and first impression I’m so genuinely blown away and this is only the beginning , consider me sat and prepared for what may come next !!!
Vanished (Lockwood University #1) — J.J. Foraday
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“When you know, you know. Death doesn’t hurt. Life’s the painful part.”
Talk about emotional damage….
This book genuinely sucked me in instantly i was hooked from the very first page. The night I picked this up, I read until 2 a.m. and physically could not put it down, even though I was desperately trying not to fall asleep. That alone says everything.
The vibes in this book are immaculate perfectly British, incredibly cosy,deeply immersive and action packed and honestly, who doesn’t love supernatural creatures existing within a world that still feels relatable? This will definitely 1000 percent be one of my top books of 2026. I had such a genuinely good time reading it and I’m just obsessed what can I say.
The main MMC Noah beach was beautifully written. The emotional depth behind his character, his background, and the growth he goes through from start to finish, despite the trauma and the completely new world he’s thrown into, genuinely made me tear up. His journey was handled with so much care and authenticity and felt so raw and real.
The supporting characters were written so well that I found myself loving some and feeling genuine anger and hatred towards others which, to me, is the sign of excellent character writing. There are also so many badass female characters in this book, which I absolutely loved for obvious reasons. Love you Ruby 💅
I always seem to find myself especially drawn to fiction set in England. The language, the slang, the atmosphere it just feels like home. Lockwood University and Noah Beach felt incredibly real, and the world-building completely pulled me in. I’ve seen some reviews say the book has a slow start, but personally, I didn’t feel that way at all. I was gripped from the beginning, and the depth of description only added to the immersion I felt.
This book also made me laugh out loud a lot. The humour is unapologetically British and genuinely hilarious. I made so many kindle highlights purely because I was audibly laughing. I want to add I read a lot of this book in public, so people probably thought I was a bit unhinged and mad oops…
As a massive lover of vampires (and I mean MASSIVE) and all things supernatural, this book was completely up my street and right down my alley. I thoroughly enjoyed myself, even though I endured emotional trauma throughout Term 3 (and yes, the author was right Term 3 is absolutely tea filled and drama filled).I was not prepared to be crying actual tears at this book but I did and honestly I was embarrassed because again i was in a public setting oops part 2 😭
I loved the way this book ended and how perfectly it sets things up for book two. I am itching to read it and cannot wait to dive back into Lockwood University and feel right at home again with all my new comfort characters.
If you are seeing this you must add vanished to your TBR and read this at once I compel you to do so!!!! (lol)
An incredible debut novel and first impression I’m so genuinely blown away and this is only the beginning , consider me sat and prepared for what may come next !!!
March 2, 2026
This book!! 👀😱
I challenged myself with this book as this is not my normal kind of read at all!!
This follows foster brothers Noah and Roman.. Roman gets a invite to a elite university and leaves noah behind in hope to better both there lives..
FF 6 months and Noah gets told that Roman is missing ... only then to recieve a call from someone using the identity 'medussa' who's objective is to get Noah into the university ro find out whats happened to Roman. Noah agrees....
The next Term Noah arrives at Lockwood University... it doesnt take him long to figure out something isn't right.... and before he knows it he is chucked into a world he never knew existed!! shocked and disbelief that he is surrounded by things he only thought existed in a book! ... how id he suppost to stay alive in this world!!.... thinking fast he decides to pose as a vampire!!! ....
As he digs deeper he finds more missing cases... suspicious activity... just what lengths will Noah go to to save his brother...
Things dont go to plan... some people get suspicious of him... some get suspicious about why he is really there! Noah soon realises he needs more than smarts, and secrets he needs friends and allies...
as he embarks on the most dangerous thing in his life will he find the answers he is looking for or does he just end up with more questions???
how long can he keep pretending to be a vampire????
whats happened to Roman?
and whi is behind it all.....
The Author -
J.J is a indie author and WOW what a book this is!! ... i literally couldn't put it down even when I had other plans I read it right up to the last second of me walking out the door ( and I wasn't amused) I even messaged him saying so!
This book is full of suspense, drama, action, sadness, friendship, trust. it has been written so well!!
it has been written so well it felt like you there with them ... a few scenes even feeling like u could smell the food... descriptions were amazing!! i cannot wait for book 2!!!
I challenged myself with this book as this is not my normal kind of read at all!!
This follows foster brothers Noah and Roman.. Roman gets a invite to a elite university and leaves noah behind in hope to better both there lives..
FF 6 months and Noah gets told that Roman is missing ... only then to recieve a call from someone using the identity 'medussa' who's objective is to get Noah into the university ro find out whats happened to Roman. Noah agrees....
The next Term Noah arrives at Lockwood University... it doesnt take him long to figure out something isn't right.... and before he knows it he is chucked into a world he never knew existed!! shocked and disbelief that he is surrounded by things he only thought existed in a book! ... how id he suppost to stay alive in this world!!.... thinking fast he decides to pose as a vampire!!! ....
As he digs deeper he finds more missing cases... suspicious activity... just what lengths will Noah go to to save his brother...
Things dont go to plan... some people get suspicious of him... some get suspicious about why he is really there! Noah soon realises he needs more than smarts, and secrets he needs friends and allies...
as he embarks on the most dangerous thing in his life will he find the answers he is looking for or does he just end up with more questions???
how long can he keep pretending to be a vampire????
whats happened to Roman?
and whi is behind it all.....
The Author -
J.J is a indie author and WOW what a book this is!! ... i literally couldn't put it down even when I had other plans I read it right up to the last second of me walking out the door ( and I wasn't amused) I even messaged him saying so!
This book is full of suspense, drama, action, sadness, friendship, trust. it has been written so well!!
it has been written so well it felt like you there with them ... a few scenes even feeling like u could smell the food... descriptions were amazing!! i cannot wait for book 2!!!
February 9, 2026
3.5 stars! I had a good time with this book. The plot definitely moved a little slow at times but I was thoroughly entertained. We have banter, some unhinged moments, mystery and plot twist. Overall a good read!
February 26, 2026
Epic read
A fantastic spin on the world of vampires, werewolves witches and wizards. A well written story of intrigue and mystery that has you guessing till you aren't a thoroughly enjoyed book by an awesome indi author
A fantastic spin on the world of vampires, werewolves witches and wizards. A well written story of intrigue and mystery that has you guessing till you aren't a thoroughly enjoyed book by an awesome indi author
June 29, 2026
A dark acadamia that brought me home. Growing up with shows like Buffy the Vampyre slayer, Angel, Vampire Diaries, Harry Potter, Teen Wolf I immediately got lost in the world and its characters.
Noah has one person in the world who makes him feel any kind of happiness and he vanishes after starting Lockward university. Grief tears him apart but when he gets a mysterious call telling him to attend Lockward to investigate his brothers disappearance he doesn’t realise what he is exactly getting himself into.
Witches,wizards, werewolves, vampires. He enters a world of monsters and the kicker he has to convince them all he is one, that he is a vampire.
The acadamia side of this is really light this is more a story of grief, becoming things the world expects you to be but also a supernatural mystery that promises a world of intrigued and excitement and I could not put it down. I devoured every word, needed the next page. I wouldn’t say there was anything different from other works of this type but I felt the characters, the struggle the hardship and the bonds. I enjoyed the story and was left wanting more. It was beautifully written.
My only gripe is that it did feel a little easy to blend into this world centuries of experience, creatures with knowledge and they were fooled pretty easy for the most part, it is explained but it was easy answer and could have had a little more depth but I’m honestly just picking at the tiniest holes.
Read it won’t regret it, fantastic and book 2 is already out.
Noah has one person in the world who makes him feel any kind of happiness and he vanishes after starting Lockward university. Grief tears him apart but when he gets a mysterious call telling him to attend Lockward to investigate his brothers disappearance he doesn’t realise what he is exactly getting himself into.
Witches,wizards, werewolves, vampires. He enters a world of monsters and the kicker he has to convince them all he is one, that he is a vampire.
The acadamia side of this is really light this is more a story of grief, becoming things the world expects you to be but also a supernatural mystery that promises a world of intrigued and excitement and I could not put it down. I devoured every word, needed the next page. I wouldn’t say there was anything different from other works of this type but I felt the characters, the struggle the hardship and the bonds. I enjoyed the story and was left wanting more. It was beautifully written.
My only gripe is that it did feel a little easy to blend into this world centuries of experience, creatures with knowledge and they were fooled pretty easy for the most part, it is explained but it was easy answer and could have had a little more depth but I’m honestly just picking at the tiniest holes.
Read it won’t regret it, fantastic and book 2 is already out.
May 16, 2026
Vanished is an enthralling read that blends vampires, werewolves, and dark magic into a gripping story centred around the search for a missing brother. The world-building is incredibly descriptive, pulling you fully into its mysterious and dangerous atmosphere from the very beginning.
It has the feel of a darker, more adult version of Harry Potter, with rich fantasy elements, suspense, and characters you quickly become invested in. The story unfolds in unexpected ways, making it difficult to put down once you start. A captivating first book that leaves you desperate to know what happens next — I can’t wait for the second book.
It has the feel of a darker, more adult version of Harry Potter, with rich fantasy elements, suspense, and characters you quickly become invested in. The story unfolds in unexpected ways, making it difficult to put down once you start. A captivating first book that leaves you desperate to know what happens next — I can’t wait for the second book.
April 29, 2026
This book is my favourite book I’ve ever read!! And no, I’m not paid to say this. The characters are immaculately written with many likeable characters and the plot is so captivating. There’s all emotions to be felt with the book from heartache to laughing out loud and the cliff hanger at the end!! It had my jaw on the floor! I cannot contain my excitement for book 2! How this book hasn’t gone viral yet is beyond me! Please please please read this book, you will not be disappointed!! Amazing work JJ, congratulations 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻❤️
July 4, 2026
This was such a fun and unique take on paranormal fantasy. I loved the characters, the vernacular, and the plot. Can’t wait to dig in to book two! If you enjoy dark academia don’t miss the chance to read this!
April 22, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I actually came across @jjf.author on TikTok of all places and ended up joining one of his lives. After chatting for a bit, that’s how I was introduced to Vanished — and I’m so glad I gave it a chance.
This isn’t something I’d normally pick up, but wow… I couldn’t put it down.
From the very beginning, the story pulls you into Noah’s desperation to find his brother, Roman, and it just doesn’t let go. The whole concept of Lockwood University being this hidden sanctuary for witches, wizards, and werewolves is so well done — dark, mysterious, and full of secrets.
What really stood out to me was Noah’s journey. Watching him pretend to be something he’s not, slowly becoming colder and more dangerous just to survive… it’s intense. You can really feel the stakes rising with every chapter, and the idea that “blood remembers everything” adds such a haunting edge to the story.
It’s dark academia with real emotional depth — about grief, brotherhood, and how far someone will go for the people they love.
Definitely a book that surprised me in the best way, and I’m already looking forward to book two
I actually came across @jjf.author on TikTok of all places and ended up joining one of his lives. After chatting for a bit, that’s how I was introduced to Vanished — and I’m so glad I gave it a chance.
This isn’t something I’d normally pick up, but wow… I couldn’t put it down.
From the very beginning, the story pulls you into Noah’s desperation to find his brother, Roman, and it just doesn’t let go. The whole concept of Lockwood University being this hidden sanctuary for witches, wizards, and werewolves is so well done — dark, mysterious, and full of secrets.
What really stood out to me was Noah’s journey. Watching him pretend to be something he’s not, slowly becoming colder and more dangerous just to survive… it’s intense. You can really feel the stakes rising with every chapter, and the idea that “blood remembers everything” adds such a haunting edge to the story.
It’s dark academia with real emotional depth — about grief, brotherhood, and how far someone will go for the people they love.
Definitely a book that surprised me in the best way, and I’m already looking forward to book two
May 13, 2026
I actually grew up right around the corner in Nutgrove, so seeing a story start in Rainhill was an immediate draw for me!
It’s not often you find a thriller set in your own backyard, and JJ does a great job capturing the local atmosphere. I was imagining a lot of the places from being. A kid in my head in the first part.
The mystery definitely pulled me in, and the writing is really solid—there’s a great sense of tension that keeps you turning the pages.
Can’t wait to read book 2
It’s not often you find a thriller set in your own backyard, and JJ does a great job capturing the local atmosphere. I was imagining a lot of the places from being. A kid in my head in the first part.
The mystery definitely pulled me in, and the writing is really solid—there’s a great sense of tension that keeps you turning the pages.
Can’t wait to read book 2
May 4, 2026
From the very first chapter, I was pulled into the mystery, and it never really let go.
The pacing is sharp, with just enough twists to keep you guessing without feeling overwhelmed. I especially appreciated how the characters felt real, flawed, driven, and believable in their choices.
What stood out most, though, is how much effort clearly went into crafting this story. The details, the structure, and the way everything ties together show a lot of care and dedication and it really comes through on every page. It’s the kind of book where you can tell the author didn’t cut corners, and J.J. Foraday should feel genuinely proud of what he’s created here.
It also gave me strong “adult version of Harry Potter” vibes, with that same sense of mystery and immersive world-building, just with a more mature tone and stakes.
Overall, it’s a gripping and thoughtfully written book that I’d definitely recommend.
The pacing is sharp, with just enough twists to keep you guessing without feeling overwhelmed. I especially appreciated how the characters felt real, flawed, driven, and believable in their choices.
What stood out most, though, is how much effort clearly went into crafting this story. The details, the structure, and the way everything ties together show a lot of care and dedication and it really comes through on every page. It’s the kind of book where you can tell the author didn’t cut corners, and J.J. Foraday should feel genuinely proud of what he’s created here.
It also gave me strong “adult version of Harry Potter” vibes, with that same sense of mystery and immersive world-building, just with a more mature tone and stakes.
Overall, it’s a gripping and thoughtfully written book that I’d definitely recommend.
April 25, 2026
Could not put this book down! Great read. Laughed , cred and all in between. Fast paced and well written xx
July 2, 2026
What a book
Absolutely loved this book from start to finish all the twists and turns were brilliant and so was the ending im just so happy that book 2 is already here 😀😀
Absolutely loved this book from start to finish all the twists and turns were brilliant and so was the ending im just so happy that book 2 is already here 😀😀
June 28, 2026
Amazing read
Highly recomend to anyone that enjoys Harry potter style books captivated from the first page its like your at lockwood with Noah .Thank you Jay for an amzing exoeriance at Lockwood Universaty.
Highly recomend to anyone that enjoys Harry potter style books captivated from the first page its like your at lockwood with Noah .Thank you Jay for an amzing exoeriance at Lockwood Universaty.
April 17, 2026
I love a book that you read but don't get a sense of how it ends or has your typical ending. I found this book to be amazing and I can't wait for book 2. This is a book that grips you from the beginning and you could spend hours at one time sitting reading it without noticing the time go by.
April 20, 2026
Oh my goodness! This book is absolutely amazing.
The world building was outstanding and I loved the university itself and how the law came about. I loved the different parts of the university, especially the river it seemed so calming until morning decided it was Noah’s end time.
The characters were absolutely amazing my personal favourites were Noah, Ruby, Ben, Miles and Iris (Medusa).
I feel like they are such loveable characters and I balled my eyes out when I found out that Ben got killed by Brents father.
I also loved the character building, how Noah started off as this shy boy and then turned into one of the strongest characters in the book.
Plot twists were amazing, although I had a hunch that Noah would be turned into a vampire from about half way in, and he did become one. The explanation of it was amazing.
Chapter lengths were amazing, and you can’t put the book down it is that good. I would say it’s better than Harry Potter itself, just because the author is nicer.
I would 100% recommend reading this if your into hunger games and Harry Potter, as this book is literally those two together.
Well done!!
The world building was outstanding and I loved the university itself and how the law came about. I loved the different parts of the university, especially the river it seemed so calming until morning decided it was Noah’s end time.
The characters were absolutely amazing my personal favourites were Noah, Ruby, Ben, Miles and Iris (Medusa).
I feel like they are such loveable characters and I balled my eyes out when I found out that Ben got killed by Brents father.
I also loved the character building, how Noah started off as this shy boy and then turned into one of the strongest characters in the book.
Plot twists were amazing, although I had a hunch that Noah would be turned into a vampire from about half way in, and he did become one. The explanation of it was amazing.
Chapter lengths were amazing, and you can’t put the book down it is that good. I would say it’s better than Harry Potter itself, just because the author is nicer.
I would 100% recommend reading this if your into hunger games and Harry Potter, as this book is literally those two together.
Well done!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 14, 2026
This felt like such a nostalgic read to me, and I really enjoyed it. The setting and the characters I loved. Its fast paced, so just kept saying one more chapter which ended up actually being 5 more. Im looking forward to the next book coming out, I need to know what happens!
April 4, 2026
Loved this read. If you like Harry Potter you would definitely love this. The story is amazing, there was so much that happened that there was no room to get bored. It kept you on your toes. The ending was a little sad, I can't wait for the next book.
If you like vampires, werewolves, witches and wizards then this is the read for you 😉
If you like vampires, werewolves, witches and wizards then this is the read for you 😉
March 14, 2026
Vanished was a fantastic read that completely pulled me in. The story follows Noah, whose brother Roman is invited to attend the elite Lockwood University. When Roman doesn’t return home for the term break, the family learns he has gone missing. Soon after, Noah receives a message from a mysterious Medusa asking for his help to uncover the truth about this disappearance. Determined to find his brother, Noah infiltrates Lockwood for the second term and quickly realises the university is nothing like it seems.
Lockwood is filled with supernatural beings known as the Elites, including werewolves, vampires, wizards, shifters and mermaids. As an Ordinary human, Noah isn’t meant to be there, so he hides in plain sight by posing as a vampire while quietly investigating what happened to Roman. The deeper he digs, the more it feels like something much bigger has been unfolding in the shadows for years.
I really enjoyed the investigative feel of the story. Following Noah as he pulls on different threads and slowly pieces things together gave the book a bit of a detective vibe while still keeping all the magic and mystery of a fantasy world. The twists were unexpected and deliciously satisfying. An extremely well executed of my two favourite genres - fantasy and thriller.
The supernatural lore is introduced naturally and never feels like an info dump. The variety of beings and the political intrigues make the world feel rich and interesting, and there are so many small details that make the setting come alive. I loved the moon phase symbols changing between chapters, such a simple touch but very atmospheric. The race scene was great and gave me my beloved trial vibes, and things like growing wands were just really cool ideas.
Noah is a clever and likeable main character, and the emotions in the story feel genuine. I love the found family trope and it was executed really well in this book. The writing flows easily and the cultural references feel authentic. I also smiled at the little Harry Potter nods.
Overall, Vanished is a really engaging mix of fantasy and mystery with great characters, interesting lore and a story that keeps you turning the pages. I had a great time reading it and I’m excited to see where the story goes next.
Lockwood is filled with supernatural beings known as the Elites, including werewolves, vampires, wizards, shifters and mermaids. As an Ordinary human, Noah isn’t meant to be there, so he hides in plain sight by posing as a vampire while quietly investigating what happened to Roman. The deeper he digs, the more it feels like something much bigger has been unfolding in the shadows for years.
I really enjoyed the investigative feel of the story. Following Noah as he pulls on different threads and slowly pieces things together gave the book a bit of a detective vibe while still keeping all the magic and mystery of a fantasy world. The twists were unexpected and deliciously satisfying. An extremely well executed of my two favourite genres - fantasy and thriller.
The supernatural lore is introduced naturally and never feels like an info dump. The variety of beings and the political intrigues make the world feel rich and interesting, and there are so many small details that make the setting come alive. I loved the moon phase symbols changing between chapters, such a simple touch but very atmospheric. The race scene was great and gave me my beloved trial vibes, and things like growing wands were just really cool ideas.
Noah is a clever and likeable main character, and the emotions in the story feel genuine. I love the found family trope and it was executed really well in this book. The writing flows easily and the cultural references feel authentic. I also smiled at the little Harry Potter nods.
Overall, Vanished is a really engaging mix of fantasy and mystery with great characters, interesting lore and a story that keeps you turning the pages. I had a great time reading it and I’m excited to see where the story goes next.
March 30, 2026
I read Vanished along with the rest of the girls in my local book club and ended up really enjoying it. The mystery moves quickly, and I found myself constantly trying to piece things together. The final reveal was so satisfying. It also sparked a ton of great conversation in our group, and now we are all excited for Book 2.
Getting to ask the author questions on the group call was such a fun bonus.
Overall, it is a quick, magical fantasy with great banter and plenty to keep you turning the pages. ✨️
Getting to ask the author questions on the group call was such a fun bonus.
Overall, it is a quick, magical fantasy with great banter and plenty to keep you turning the pages. ✨️
May 25, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
I know ima eat anything up that’s magical university themed.
Noah, a regular human, pretty much hates the world minus his foster brother Roman. They live pretty much on scraps but they have each other. That is until Roman gets an invite to a mysterious university. A few months later and Noah is eagerly waiting for his brother to return for the holidays, but is informed his brother has gone missing. Falling apart Noah doesn’t know what to do anymore, that is until he gets a strange message telling him he needs to infiltrate the university, befriend Roman’s friends to find out what happened to him. Little does he know this isn’t your box standard university, it’s one for the supernatural. How is a regular human going to convince vampires, witches, wizards, werewolves and more that he is one of them?
I devoured this book, I need the next one now. It’s got great British humour and the fact that Noah is similar to Cook from skins is just chefs kiss. A fantastic page turner and definitely worth the read!
I know ima eat anything up that’s magical university themed.
Noah, a regular human, pretty much hates the world minus his foster brother Roman. They live pretty much on scraps but they have each other. That is until Roman gets an invite to a mysterious university. A few months later and Noah is eagerly waiting for his brother to return for the holidays, but is informed his brother has gone missing. Falling apart Noah doesn’t know what to do anymore, that is until he gets a strange message telling him he needs to infiltrate the university, befriend Roman’s friends to find out what happened to him. Little does he know this isn’t your box standard university, it’s one for the supernatural. How is a regular human going to convince vampires, witches, wizards, werewolves and more that he is one of them?
I devoured this book, I need the next one now. It’s got great British humour and the fact that Noah is similar to Cook from skins is just chefs kiss. A fantastic page turner and definitely worth the read!
March 29, 2026
Vanished Lockwood University is a gripping dark academia novel with a haunting atmosphere and a slow-burning mystery at its core. The eerie campus setting and morally complex characters pull you into a world of secrets, obsession, and intellectual ambition. While the pacing is deliberate, it adds to the tension and depth. Overall, it’s a beautifully written, unsettling read that will stay with you—perfect for fans of dark academia. Can’t wait for book two Taken
February 15, 2026
Loved this book and the story was amazing.
March 26, 2026
Honestly such a great read throughly enjoyed it 🥰 had me gripped from the start
January 3, 2026
First book of 2026 done and a brilliant start with a five star read. I came accross this author scrolling through tiktok and was sold by the blurb and description. The cover is simple, but stunning. This is giving Harry Potter, Vampire Diaries and Monster high vibes. Witches, Wizards, werewolves, shifters and vampires. PERFECT! There's a lot going on throughout the story, so always something to keep you guessing and reading on. I flew through the last 100 pages and I needed all the answers and I didn't guess anything. I also need therapy for a certain part in this book (no spoilers, but how dare you). This book made me feel excited and back in my teen days in the magic worlds. Its a clean read so no smut woo hoo the odd kiss. Brilliantly written. I could easily see this being turned into a tv series or film which I would watch! I'm already waiting for book two!! HURRY UP AUGUST. Highly recommend. 5 stars.
January 5, 2026
4.25⭐️
A really great debut, I read the first 100 pages, slow but enjoyable proving the background information that was required while helping to build the characters and their friendships.
At the start I didn’t know how to take Noah. His character was just a bit too childish and immature for my liking. But as the story progressed and he continued to investigate his brother disappearance he matured quickly, battling grief and trying to uncover the secrets surrounding his disappearance and that of Lockwood University.
Term 3 flew by for me, with every page building up to the grand finale, and without spoiling too much that one scene really hit my heart.
The pacing may feel slow but if you follow the novel closer to that of a movie or a tv show and read it almost episodic then the pacing is just perfect. Trust me the 270 pages I’ve read In the last 6 flew in.
A great debut and I look forward to book 2 later this year.
A really great debut, I read the first 100 pages, slow but enjoyable proving the background information that was required while helping to build the characters and their friendships.
At the start I didn’t know how to take Noah. His character was just a bit too childish and immature for my liking. But as the story progressed and he continued to investigate his brother disappearance he matured quickly, battling grief and trying to uncover the secrets surrounding his disappearance and that of Lockwood University.
Term 3 flew by for me, with every page building up to the grand finale, and without spoiling too much that one scene really hit my heart.
The pacing may feel slow but if you follow the novel closer to that of a movie or a tv show and read it almost episodic then the pacing is just perfect. Trust me the 270 pages I’ve read In the last 6 flew in.
A great debut and I look forward to book 2 later this year.
May 19, 2026
Honestly it was such a good book to read, from start to finish I enjoyed the wit of Noah, his attitude and his drive to find his brother, there's hints dropped all around the book but nothing can prepare you for what comes next. It's an honour to read this book aloud for the audiobook version and I am so excited and cannot wait for book 2!
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