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Missing Ivy #1
Missing Ivy
For three years, Nathan Reign has been trapped in the same moment—the one that took everything from him.
While the world moved on, he didn’t.
He built his life around one purpose: finding the truth.
Then Ella steps into his world.
She’s light where he’s dark. Warm where he’s guarded.
And somehow, she makes him feel something he refuses to allow.
But Nathan isn’t a man you fall for without consequences.
Because the deeper Ella gets, the more she realizes… he’s not just searching for answers.
He’s consumed by them.
And when the truth finally surfaces, it won’t just change his life—it will force him to choose between the past that owns him… and the one person who could finally set him free.
A gripping romantic suspense novel about love, loss, and the moments that change everything
While the world moved on, he didn’t.
He built his life around one purpose: finding the truth.
Then Ella steps into his world.
She’s light where he’s dark. Warm where he’s guarded.
And somehow, she makes him feel something he refuses to allow.
But Nathan isn’t a man you fall for without consequences.
Because the deeper Ella gets, the more she realizes… he’s not just searching for answers.
He’s consumed by them.
And when the truth finally surfaces, it won’t just change his life—it will force him to choose between the past that owns him… and the one person who could finally set him free.
A gripping romantic suspense novel about love, loss, and the moments that change everything
310 pages, Paperback
First published June 16, 2026
About the author
Nick Bateman
1 book24 followersNick Bateman is an actor, storyteller, and author of the romantic suspense novel Missing Ivy alongside his wife, Maria Bateman. Drawn to emotionally charged stories that blend love, grief, mystery, and human connection, Nick spent over two years developing the world and characters of Missing Ivy, a cinematic suspense romance set in Seattle.
Known for his work on screen and his strong social media presence, Nick brings a deeply visual and emotional style of storytelling to his writing. Missing Ivy marks the beginning of an interconnected novel universe exploring romance, trauma, suspense, and redemption.
Known for his work on screen and his strong social media presence, Nick brings a deeply visual and emotional style of storytelling to his writing. Missing Ivy marks the beginning of an interconnected novel universe exploring romance, trauma, suspense, and redemption.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
June 19, 2026
As someone who reads a LOT of books, Missing Ivy is definitely in my top 10 of the year! From the beginning, you’re immersed into a world of dimensional characters, romantic tension (big fan of), and a mystery that makes it nearly impossible to put the book down. Nick and Maria do such a fantastic job of making the reader feel like they’re living in the pages with these characters. You know a book is good when you can really feel the emotions that the characters are experiencing! I loved the complexity of Ella and Nathan’s relationship, and how it evolved throughout the story. You’ll laugh, cry, and even get frustrated at times for these characters, but in the end you won’t regret reading Missing Ivy!!
July 13, 2026
Ella owns a bakery in Seattle. She is happy with her life and her friends, but something is missing. She keeps running into her brooding neighbor in the elevator…
Nathan likes Ella, but he can’t let her see what is really going on. He’s busy searching for the answers to something that has haunted him for years. Maybe Ella can help.
A great thriller/drama/romance. The pace of the story hooks you in, and it never slows down. The characters are well written, and the romance of it all didn’t seem too cheesy, so I liked this book. Way more than I thought I would, in fact.
I received a copy for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
Nathan likes Ella, but he can’t let her see what is really going on. He’s busy searching for the answers to something that has haunted him for years. Maybe Ella can help.
A great thriller/drama/romance. The pace of the story hooks you in, and it never slows down. The characters are well written, and the romance of it all didn’t seem too cheesy, so I liked this book. Way more than I thought I would, in fact.
I received a copy for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 9, 2026
Best new book Ive read this year! Well done and cant wait for the next one!!
June 20, 2026
This is one of the best books I’ve ever read and I love to read. You feel EVERY different emotion these characters are feeling. I laughed. I cried. Sadness. Happiness. Frustration. Humor. Anxiety. Anticipation. Smiles. Thrill. Goosebumps. Excitement. You get so hooked and pulled into this story that you feel like you’re a part of it. Your heart becomes these people. Thank you Nick and Maria. I’ll be reading your next book as soon as it comes out. Missing Ivy goes into my list of favorite books and I’ll definitely read it again!!!
July 11, 2026
Hold up. This is a debut romance? A DEBUT?? Sorry for screaming, but, oh my freaking holy wow! This reads like a comfortable, relaxed, seasoned romance with perfect little pops of irreverence, and it had me gobbling it up in one sitting and hanging on every word.
The storyline, the pacing, the character arcs, the drama and suspense, the emotional depth. I can’t believe this isn’t something from an author duo with twenty romances under their belt. That it's a husband and wife team makes it even sweeter, and the pieces of themselves they leave on the page shine through.
It's honest and authentic. Both Nathan and Ella are so relatable – two flawed humans with layers and vulnerabilities who life has knocked over, but they keep showing up. And giving us two very realistic but different responses to life's challenges – a vital reminder that dealing with trauma and grief is an individual process. The fictional world is full and vibrant, and the secondary characters add life and depth.
This is a story that didn’t try too hard but then met and exceeded all possible expectations. And the tight writing usually lacking in a new storyteller with something to prove made it feel like this read itself. It made my brain immensely happy and left my heart with a satisfied sigh. I'll be eagerly awaiting more while you do yourself a favor and escape into this phenomenal romantic suspense.
The storyline, the pacing, the character arcs, the drama and suspense, the emotional depth. I can’t believe this isn’t something from an author duo with twenty romances under their belt. That it's a husband and wife team makes it even sweeter, and the pieces of themselves they leave on the page shine through.
It's honest and authentic. Both Nathan and Ella are so relatable – two flawed humans with layers and vulnerabilities who life has knocked over, but they keep showing up. And giving us two very realistic but different responses to life's challenges – a vital reminder that dealing with trauma and grief is an individual process. The fictional world is full and vibrant, and the secondary characters add life and depth.
This is a story that didn’t try too hard but then met and exceeded all possible expectations. And the tight writing usually lacking in a new storyteller with something to prove made it feel like this read itself. It made my brain immensely happy and left my heart with a satisfied sigh. I'll be eagerly awaiting more while you do yourself a favor and escape into this phenomenal romantic suspense.
June 19, 2026
I enjoyed the book so much!!!
It got delivered in the evening and I finished it at 2:44 AM because I just couldn't stop reading!
I loved ALL the characters. I can't even decide who's my favorite and I felt SO many emotions throughout the book! There were so many lines and deeper meanings that are still stuck with me, and I love that.
When a story stays with you even after you've finished reading, you know it was REALLY good.
The story touched me in so many different ways
and while reading it, I actually felt something in my chest and stomach. I laughed, shed some tears and felt completely immersed in the story.
The book really captivated me!
Also you could feel how much heart and passion went into the story and the book overall.
Besides that I just LOVED the way Maria and Nick wrote it!!! They created something so amazing, so special, so great and so beautiful, I honestly have no words for that.
They were made to be authors!
I can't wait for the next book to come out!!!
It got delivered in the evening and I finished it at 2:44 AM because I just couldn't stop reading!
I loved ALL the characters. I can't even decide who's my favorite and I felt SO many emotions throughout the book! There were so many lines and deeper meanings that are still stuck with me, and I love that.
When a story stays with you even after you've finished reading, you know it was REALLY good.
The story touched me in so many different ways
and while reading it, I actually felt something in my chest and stomach. I laughed, shed some tears and felt completely immersed in the story.
The book really captivated me!
Also you could feel how much heart and passion went into the story and the book overall.
Besides that I just LOVED the way Maria and Nick wrote it!!! They created something so amazing, so special, so great and so beautiful, I honestly have no words for that.
They were made to be authors!
I can't wait for the next book to come out!!!
June 16, 2026
One of my favourite reads of the year! So many emotions, incredible characters, and an amazing story from start to finish. Obsessed!
June 30, 2026
A Beautiful, Heart-Wrenching Story That Had Me Crying and Thinking About It Long After I Finished
Missing Ivy is an emotional and engaging novel that kept me invested from beginning to end. Nick and Maria does an excellent job creating characters that feel realistic and relatable, making it easy to connect with their struggles, emotions, and personal growth throughout the story.
One of the strongest aspects of the book is the balance between suspense and emotion. The story unfolds at a steady pace, revealing just enough to keep readers curious without feeling rushed. I appreciated how the author explored themes of love, trust, resilience, and healing in a way that felt genuine rather than forced.
The writing style is immersive and easy to follow, drawing me into the story from the very first pages. What stood out most to me was the emotional depth of the characters and the situations they faced. There were several moments that hit me hard emotionally, and I found myself tearing up more than once. Few books can make me cry, but this one definitely did. The emotions felt raw and authentic, which made the story even more powerful and memorable.
While some parts of the story were predictable, the strong character development and emotional impact more than made up for it. The relationships felt genuine, and I was fully invested in the characters and their journeys.
Overall, Missing Ivy is a heartfelt and compelling read that blends emotion, suspense, and meaningful character growth. It made me laugh, made me cry, and left a lasting impression long after I finished the final chapter. I would highly recommend it to readers who enjoy emotionally driven stories that stay with you long after you've turned the last page. Can’t wait for Bishop’s story.
Keep on reading!!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Missing Ivy is an emotional and engaging novel that kept me invested from beginning to end. Nick and Maria does an excellent job creating characters that feel realistic and relatable, making it easy to connect with their struggles, emotions, and personal growth throughout the story.
One of the strongest aspects of the book is the balance between suspense and emotion. The story unfolds at a steady pace, revealing just enough to keep readers curious without feeling rushed. I appreciated how the author explored themes of love, trust, resilience, and healing in a way that felt genuine rather than forced.
The writing style is immersive and easy to follow, drawing me into the story from the very first pages. What stood out most to me was the emotional depth of the characters and the situations they faced. There were several moments that hit me hard emotionally, and I found myself tearing up more than once. Few books can make me cry, but this one definitely did. The emotions felt raw and authentic, which made the story even more powerful and memorable.
While some parts of the story were predictable, the strong character development and emotional impact more than made up for it. The relationships felt genuine, and I was fully invested in the characters and their journeys.
Overall, Missing Ivy is a heartfelt and compelling read that blends emotion, suspense, and meaningful character growth. It made me laugh, made me cry, and left a lasting impression long after I finished the final chapter. I would highly recommend it to readers who enjoy emotionally driven stories that stay with you long after you've turned the last page. Can’t wait for Bishop’s story.
Keep on reading!!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
July 11, 2026
Missing Ivy took me on an emotional journey I wasn't expecting. At first, I found myself frustrated with Nathan and questioning many of his decisions, but as the story unfolded and more pieces of his past were revealed, I realized how carefully everything had been written. I formed theories, changed my mind more than once, and became completely invested in the mystery. By the final chapters I wasn't just reading a mystery—I was hoping with the characters. The ending left me with a full heart, and I'm already looking forward to Book Two. Thank you for creating a story that reminded me why I fell in love with reading in the first place.
July 11, 2026
Nathan Reign lost someone special to him three years ago with no resolve on what happened. He is currently just living through the tasks of the day with few connections to the world around him. Ella lives in the same building as Nathan and always wondered about the recluse handsome man living there. When someone seems to be following her one night Nathan goes from observer to something else but is conflicted on his feelings. I don’t want to say much more as this is better going in blind. I will say this is a story about healing & finding yourself again after grief interwoven with a slowly building mystery. A very enjoyable and at times touching story. Told in first person and dual POV.
June 16, 2026
If you are looking for a book that will lock you in and have you cancelling plans just to finish it, this is it! I haven't enjoyed a book this much since the Housemaid & Verity! Missing Ivy is a gripping, page-turning thriller that captivates you from the very first chapter. What really impressed me was the characters are wonderfully complex (SO realistic) ,and while the book tackles heavy themes of grief and loss, it amazingly managed to remain lighthearted, whimsical, and fun throughout. Plus, that plot twist was not obvious at all, totally caught me off guard. Highly recommend. What an impressive debute for Nick and Maria. I absolutely cannot wait for the next book in the series. Clear your schedule before you open this one!
July 15, 2026
Dude! I felt so frustrated for Nathan!! I was like come on just show her a little more attention! Why are you kind of stand off 'ish'?! Every time you thought you get a little insight to why he was the way he was, nothing. Teasers! I tell you. I get it though. Thats the way the character was going. In the end everything worked out the way it was suppose to. Beautifully written, great plot, awesome characters with some witty one liners. Definitely 5 star read. Would love to see whats next.
June 16, 2026
Missing Ivy is one of the best books I have read! It is a great mix of suspense, mystery and romance and each page will have you hooked and captivated to find out more about Nathan and Ella. Maria and Nick's writing style gives so much depth to the characters, that you are able to feel their emotions which creates a real connectiveness. It is a book you will not want to stop reading and when you are done it will leave you wanting more!
July 15, 2026
As an avid reader I can definitely say this one kept me wanting more! You can’t help loving each character and their development throughout the story. Suspenseful, sexy, fun, emotional and beautiful Missing Ivy is one of my favourite books I’ve read this year!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I Loved this book! I laughed out loud, I cried, and I got goosebumps… All of the feelings! I enjoyed the characters and loved watching their journeys evolve. Can’t wait for the next story in this series 😍
July 6, 2026
Wow! All the feels with this one. A romantic thriller/suspense/mystery.
This book drew me in and never let go. 75% in, I had goosebumps and my heart was beating so fast. I was so invested. Some heavy topics and character growth really set the pace.
No spoilers here. Go in blind and thank me later. Highly recommend.
Ps. I loved Nick and Maria's writing style and look forward to more from them.
This book drew me in and never let go. 75% in, I had goosebumps and my heart was beating so fast. I was so invested. Some heavy topics and character growth really set the pace.
No spoilers here. Go in blind and thank me later. Highly recommend.
Ps. I loved Nick and Maria's writing style and look forward to more from them.
July 9, 2026
I don't remember the last time a debut novel pulled me in this quickly!
I picked up Missing Ivy expecting a good romantic suspense, but what I got was a story that completely surprised me. It's one of those books where you tell yourself you'll read one more chapter... and then suddenly it's 2 in the morning
What really sets this book apart is the characters. Nathan isn't your typical romance hero. He's layered, guarded, and carrying the kind of emotional weight that makes every decision he makes feel believable. I loved that the authors touched on men's mental health in a way that felt honest instead of forced. It wasn't there to make a statement… it simply made Nathan feel real, and it made me root for him even more.
And Ella was exactly the kind of FMC I enjoy reading. She's compassionate without being naive, strong without trying too hard, and her chemistry with Nathan builds naturally instead of relying on instant attraction. Watching the walls between them slowly come down was just as satisfying as watching the mystery unfold.
What I appreciated most, though, was the balance. This book never forgets it's meant to be entertaining. The romance makes you smile, the mystery keeps you turning pages, the emotional moments feel earned, and before you know it you've become invested in these people's lives.
When I finished the last chapter, my first thought wasn't that was a good book It was I already miss these characters.
If you love romantic suspense with memorable characters, emotional depth, and a mystery that keeps you guessing until the end, do yourself a favor and read Missing Ivy. It's one of those books that's easy to recommend because it reminds you why you fell in love with reading in the first place.
I picked up Missing Ivy expecting a good romantic suspense, but what I got was a story that completely surprised me. It's one of those books where you tell yourself you'll read one more chapter... and then suddenly it's 2 in the morning
What really sets this book apart is the characters. Nathan isn't your typical romance hero. He's layered, guarded, and carrying the kind of emotional weight that makes every decision he makes feel believable. I loved that the authors touched on men's mental health in a way that felt honest instead of forced. It wasn't there to make a statement… it simply made Nathan feel real, and it made me root for him even more.
And Ella was exactly the kind of FMC I enjoy reading. She's compassionate without being naive, strong without trying too hard, and her chemistry with Nathan builds naturally instead of relying on instant attraction. Watching the walls between them slowly come down was just as satisfying as watching the mystery unfold.
What I appreciated most, though, was the balance. This book never forgets it's meant to be entertaining. The romance makes you smile, the mystery keeps you turning pages, the emotional moments feel earned, and before you know it you've become invested in these people's lives.
When I finished the last chapter, my first thought wasn't that was a good book It was I already miss these characters.
If you love romantic suspense with memorable characters, emotional depth, and a mystery that keeps you guessing until the end, do yourself a favor and read Missing Ivy. It's one of those books that's easy to recommend because it reminds you why you fell in love with reading in the first place.
June 22, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I picked this up because I love romantic suspense, but what surprised me most was how emotional the story was.
Nathan isn't your typical romance hero. He's carrying so much pain. I could feel the weight of what he's been through, and honestly, there were moments where my heart broke for him. What I loved was that Ella didn't magically fix him. Instead, her warmth, optimism, and lightness slowly chipped away at the walls he'd built around himself, and watching that unfold felt very real.
There were also moments that made me laugh out loud one of my favs was the "Hakuna My Tatas" moment. It was such a fun break from some of the heavier moments and made the characters feel like real people.
The mystery surrounding Nathan kept me hooked the entire time. Every time I thought I had figured something out, something would send me in a different direction. I found myself reading "just one more chapter" over and over until suddenly it was way past my bedtime.
What really stood out to me was the balance. The romance, suspense, humor, and emotional moments all worked together without one overpowering the others.
If you enjoy stories that make you feel something while also keeping you guessing, I would absolutely recommend Missing Ivy. It gave me the butterflies, made me laugh, and had me tearing up more than once.
I picked this up because I love romantic suspense, but what surprised me most was how emotional the story was.
Nathan isn't your typical romance hero. He's carrying so much pain. I could feel the weight of what he's been through, and honestly, there were moments where my heart broke for him. What I loved was that Ella didn't magically fix him. Instead, her warmth, optimism, and lightness slowly chipped away at the walls he'd built around himself, and watching that unfold felt very real.
There were also moments that made me laugh out loud one of my favs was the "Hakuna My Tatas" moment. It was such a fun break from some of the heavier moments and made the characters feel like real people.
The mystery surrounding Nathan kept me hooked the entire time. Every time I thought I had figured something out, something would send me in a different direction. I found myself reading "just one more chapter" over and over until suddenly it was way past my bedtime.
What really stood out to me was the balance. The romance, suspense, humor, and emotional moments all worked together without one overpowering the others.
If you enjoy stories that make you feel something while also keeping you guessing, I would absolutely recommend Missing Ivy. It gave me the butterflies, made me laugh, and had me tearing up more than once.
July 15, 2026
I absolutely loved Missing Ivy.
One of my favorite things about it was how it blended genres instead of sticking to one lane. Ella's chapters brought heart, humor, and lightness, while Nathan's chapters carried a much darker, suspenseful edge. That contrast made the story feel unpredictable, and I never knew exactly what emotional beat was coming next.
Nathan and Ella's relationship also worked for me. Their chemistry felt immediate and believable, and I appreciated that the romance wasn't dragged out for hundreds of pages. Their connection grew naturally through the intensity of everything they were experiencing, making every scene between them something I looked forward to.
The dual timeline with Nathan's past was another highlight. Rather than spelling everything out, it slowly peeled back layers, leaving me wanting to know more. I enjoyed putting the pieces together myself, and it kept me invested until the very end.
I also listened to the audiobook, and the immersive sound design made it feel more like a movie than a traditional audiobook. It pulled me into the atmosphere and made several scenes especially memorable.
If you enjoy romantic suspense that isn't afraid to mix romance, mystery, emotion, and tension into one story, this is absolutely worth picking up. I couldn't stop listening and finished it much faster than I expected.
One of my favorite things about it was how it blended genres instead of sticking to one lane. Ella's chapters brought heart, humor, and lightness, while Nathan's chapters carried a much darker, suspenseful edge. That contrast made the story feel unpredictable, and I never knew exactly what emotional beat was coming next.
Nathan and Ella's relationship also worked for me. Their chemistry felt immediate and believable, and I appreciated that the romance wasn't dragged out for hundreds of pages. Their connection grew naturally through the intensity of everything they were experiencing, making every scene between them something I looked forward to.
The dual timeline with Nathan's past was another highlight. Rather than spelling everything out, it slowly peeled back layers, leaving me wanting to know more. I enjoyed putting the pieces together myself, and it kept me invested until the very end.
I also listened to the audiobook, and the immersive sound design made it feel more like a movie than a traditional audiobook. It pulled me into the atmosphere and made several scenes especially memorable.
If you enjoy romantic suspense that isn't afraid to mix romance, mystery, emotion, and tension into one story, this is absolutely worth picking up. I couldn't stop listening and finished it much faster than I expected.
June 18, 2026
A Romance Novel That Even Non-Romance Readers Will Appreciate
I don’t normally read romance novels. As a guy, it’s not usually a genre I gravitate toward, but Missing Ivy completely surprised me.
What stood out most was the relationship between Nathan and Ella. Nathan is a genuinely good person carrying the weight of significant trauma, while Ella represents hope, compassion, and the ability to see the good in people even when they struggle to see it in themselves. Their dynamic feels like a true yin and yang, in a way that feels authentic, not forced.
The pacing is excellent. The story never drags, and the suspense elements keep the pages turning while the emotional depth keeps you invested in the characters. As a man, I found myself relating to Nathan’s internal battles and many of the difficult decisions he had to make throughout the story. His character felt real, flawed, and human.
Whether you’re a regular romance reader or someone like me who rarely picks up books in this genre, Missing Ivy is well worth your time. It’s an engaging, emotional, and suspenseful read that stays with you long after you’ve finished the last chapter.
Highly recommended!
I don’t normally read romance novels. As a guy, it’s not usually a genre I gravitate toward, but Missing Ivy completely surprised me.
What stood out most was the relationship between Nathan and Ella. Nathan is a genuinely good person carrying the weight of significant trauma, while Ella represents hope, compassion, and the ability to see the good in people even when they struggle to see it in themselves. Their dynamic feels like a true yin and yang, in a way that feels authentic, not forced.
The pacing is excellent. The story never drags, and the suspense elements keep the pages turning while the emotional depth keeps you invested in the characters. As a man, I found myself relating to Nathan’s internal battles and many of the difficult decisions he had to make throughout the story. His character felt real, flawed, and human.
Whether you’re a regular romance reader or someone like me who rarely picks up books in this genre, Missing Ivy is well worth your time. It’s an engaging, emotional, and suspenseful read that stays with you long after you’ve finished the last chapter.
Highly recommended!
June 26, 2026
I loved the dynamic between Nathan and Ella. Ella is just such an easy character to like, and Nathan had me wanting to know what he was hiding right from the beginning. I also really appreciated that the romance wasn't rushed. It actually took time to build, which made all of their little moments together feel so much more meaningful. The elevator scenes were some of my favorites.
The mystery kept me guessing too. I had a few theories while I was reading, and I was wrong every single time. Looking back, all the clues were there, but I just didn't put them together.
There were also so many little things that made the story feel cozy despite the heavier mystery, like the bakery, the side characters, and the bits of humor that caught me off guard. I actually laughed out loud a few times.
The last few chapters completely got me. I won't spoil anything, but I definitely had tears in my eyes by the end.
The mystery kept me guessing too. I had a few theories while I was reading, and I was wrong every single time. Looking back, all the clues were there, but I just didn't put them together.
There were also so many little things that made the story feel cozy despite the heavier mystery, like the bakery, the side characters, and the bits of humor that caught me off guard. I actually laughed out loud a few times.
The last few chapters completely got me. I won't spoil anything, but I definitely had tears in my eyes by the end.
July 9, 2026
First up I wanted to like this, and was excited but holy punctuation errors and what is up with the serious overuse of … (ellipses)
The quotes constantly flip flop between straight and curved, a clear formatting issue that was overlooked before uploading final copies.
The word “Sup” at 25% in - I struggle to believe any true editor worth their weight in gold would not seriously suggest changing this. “Sup” is slang for “what’s up,” not superintendent which was implied and would be “super” in short form.
All this before I’ve even got to chapter two!
DNF at chapter six, as I just can’t continue. The flow was off, the overuse/unnecessary use of ellipses kept pulling me from the story far too many times and there were too many sentences that read awkwardly IMO.
I know the authors are influencers, but listing a debut book at $7.99 Canadian (for digital kindle copy) for a 303 page book tells me they don’t know the market and hoped to capitalize because of their brand.
The quotes constantly flip flop between straight and curved, a clear formatting issue that was overlooked before uploading final copies.
The word “Sup” at 25% in - I struggle to believe any true editor worth their weight in gold would not seriously suggest changing this. “Sup” is slang for “what’s up,” not superintendent which was implied and would be “super” in short form.
All this before I’ve even got to chapter two!
DNF at chapter six, as I just can’t continue. The flow was off, the overuse/unnecessary use of ellipses kept pulling me from the story far too many times and there were too many sentences that read awkwardly IMO.
I know the authors are influencers, but listing a debut book at $7.99 Canadian (for digital kindle copy) for a 303 page book tells me they don’t know the market and hoped to capitalize because of their brand.
Review of advance copy received from Author
There are books that entertain you and then there are books that quietly pull you into their world until you realize you’re completely invested in the people living inside it. Missing Ivy did exactly that.
What stood out most to me wasn’t just the mystery but the emotional depth woven throughout the story. Love, grief, hope, guilt, resilience and impossible choices all felt incredibly real. Every chapter revealed another layer and made it impossible not to keep turning the pages.
The characters were flawed, believable and constantly evolving in ways that left me wanting more. Even the quieter moments carried weight and every relationship felt authentic.
It’s clear how much thought and care went into creating this story. The best books don’t just make you wonder what happens next, they make you deeply care about the people at the heart of it. Missing Ivy absolutely accomplished that!
What stood out most to me wasn’t just the mystery but the emotional depth woven throughout the story. Love, grief, hope, guilt, resilience and impossible choices all felt incredibly real. Every chapter revealed another layer and made it impossible not to keep turning the pages.
The characters were flawed, believable and constantly evolving in ways that left me wanting more. Even the quieter moments carried weight and every relationship felt authentic.
It’s clear how much thought and care went into creating this story. The best books don’t just make you wonder what happens next, they make you deeply care about the people at the heart of it. Missing Ivy absolutely accomplished that!
June 19, 2026
I just got this book yesterday and I wasn’t expecting to finish it one day!!! I was up till midnight reading, I just couldn’t put it down. I COMPLETELY fell in love with the characters and truly just couldn’t put it down because I needed to know how the book finished. Even I cared about the side characters which never happens, side characters are usually fillers and let me tell you, these characters (especially Ashton) are so much apart of the story and I just can’t WAIY for book 2!!!!!!!!!
For a debut novel, I’m actually impressed how well the story telling was executed and each chapter finishes with a page turner. This book is filled with so much heart, depth, suspense, good banter and emotion. Well done 👏🏼
For a debut novel, I’m actually impressed how well the story telling was executed and each chapter finishes with a page turner. This book is filled with so much heart, depth, suspense, good banter and emotion. Well done 👏🏼
June 26, 2026
I just finished Missing Ivy and absolutely loved it! The characters felt so real and relatable that I found myself genuinely connected to them and invested in their journey.
Maria and Nick did such a great job balancing the mystery and romance elements—it was honestly difficult to put down because I always wanted to know what was going to happen next.
One of my favourite parts was seeing the softer, more vulnerable side of the male lead, while the female lead was strong, independent, and determined without losing her authenticity. Their dynamic felt realistic and refreshing.
Congratulations on an incredible first book. I can’t wait to see where you take these characters next, and I’ll definitely be eagerly waiting for the next book in the series!
Maria and Nick did such a great job balancing the mystery and romance elements—it was honestly difficult to put down because I always wanted to know what was going to happen next.
One of my favourite parts was seeing the softer, more vulnerable side of the male lead, while the female lead was strong, independent, and determined without losing her authenticity. Their dynamic felt realistic and refreshing.
Congratulations on an incredible first book. I can’t wait to see where you take these characters next, and I’ll definitely be eagerly waiting for the next book in the series!
June 30, 2026
I absolutely love books that don't just make you turn the pages quickly, but actually touch your heart and leave you carrying the characters' emotions long after the final page. ✨
Missing Ivy is exactly that kind of book.
It doesn't just offer a gripping mystery; the complex, finely-crafted bond between the characters and the emotional depth of the story truly captivate you. If you're looking for a page-turner that also leaves a meaningful impact behind, you should definitely give this one a chance. 💯
Huge congratulations to Maria and Nick 🤍 You've put so much heart and hard work into this, and it truly shows. I'm absolutely in love with this masterpiece, and I seriously can't wait for the second book ✨
Missing Ivy is exactly that kind of book.
It doesn't just offer a gripping mystery; the complex, finely-crafted bond between the characters and the emotional depth of the story truly captivate you. If you're looking for a page-turner that also leaves a meaningful impact behind, you should definitely give this one a chance. 💯
Huge congratulations to Maria and Nick 🤍 You've put so much heart and hard work into this, and it truly shows. I'm absolutely in love with this masterpiece, and I seriously can't wait for the second book ✨
July 18, 2026
This book honestly felt like I was binge watching a TV series. Every chapter ended with something that made me think, Okay... one more...and before I knew it, it was over.
I clicked with Ella right away. She felt like a real person, not just another main character. And Nathan? I was obsessed with figuring him out. I needed to know what happened to him, who he was looking for, and what he was hiding. The suspense had me constantly coming up with theories, and I was wrong more than once.
The balance between the romance and the mystery just worked. Neither one took over the story, and it kept me hooked the whole way through. I seriously had a hard time putting it down.
If you're into fast paced romantic suspense definitely give this one a shot.
I clicked with Ella right away. She felt like a real person, not just another main character. And Nathan? I was obsessed with figuring him out. I needed to know what happened to him, who he was looking for, and what he was hiding. The suspense had me constantly coming up with theories, and I was wrong more than once.
The balance between the romance and the mystery just worked. Neither one took over the story, and it kept me hooked the whole way through. I seriously had a hard time putting it down.
If you're into fast paced romantic suspense definitely give this one a shot.
June 27, 2026
I am an avid reader and I absolutely loved this book! From the very beginning, the characters were so interesting and REAL! A great book keeps you up at night and gets you rushing home from work...both happened to me. I was always on the edge of my seat, with the constant sense that something important was about to happen. I felt so many different emotions reading Missing Ivy...excited, happy, sad, scared, frustrated and pure joy! There were so many moments of anticipation and fast moving scenes that raised the suspense. Anyone looking for a fast-paced, gripping Summer read, sitting in your backyard, the beach, or by your pool, Missing Ivy is for you.
July 9, 2026
Missing Ivy was NOT what I expected... and I mean that in the best possible way.
The beginning takes its time, but once I hit the middle of the book, I was absolutely hooked. I kept telling myself, "just one more chapter," and suddenly it was the end. 😭
Nick and Maria absolutely nailed the storytelling. The mystery kept pulling me in, every character had me wanting to know more, and somehow the ending still managed to have me crying.
Now I'm just sitting here impatiently waiting for the next book because I already need more of this world and these characters. Such an incredible start to the series!
The beginning takes its time, but once I hit the middle of the book, I was absolutely hooked. I kept telling myself, "just one more chapter," and suddenly it was the end. 😭
Nick and Maria absolutely nailed the storytelling. The mystery kept pulling me in, every character had me wanting to know more, and somehow the ending still managed to have me crying.
Now I'm just sitting here impatiently waiting for the next book because I already need more of this world and these characters. Such an incredible start to the series!
July 10, 2026
I'll admit, I didn't expect a debut novel to feel this polished.
What stood out to me more than anything was the characters. Nathan, Ella, Bishop, and Ashton all felt like real people I'd actually want to spend time with, and that's rare. They each have distinct personalities, strengths, and flaws, and none of them feel like they're just there to move the plot forward. By the end of the book, I was just as invested in their friendships and relationships as I was in finding out what was going to happen next.
Didn't expect to laugh and cry in the same book but it happened, which doesn't happen for me alot, so that was a pleasant surprise, ready for book two and Bishop's story.
What stood out to me more than anything was the characters. Nathan, Ella, Bishop, and Ashton all felt like real people I'd actually want to spend time with, and that's rare. They each have distinct personalities, strengths, and flaws, and none of them feel like they're just there to move the plot forward. By the end of the book, I was just as invested in their friendships and relationships as I was in finding out what was going to happen next.
Didn't expect to laugh and cry in the same book but it happened, which doesn't happen for me alot, so that was a pleasant surprise, ready for book two and Bishop's story.
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